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GoWaiter – Alpharetta and Roswell

August 19, 2011 in Foodie Friday, Reviews with 2 Comments

Every Friday Roots in Alpharetta features an article on food and dining in a series called Foodie Friday.

GoWaiter is a chain of restaurant delivery services. Stephen Altenbach has opened a franchise in north Fulton. They went live this week with a handful of restaurants participating. My wife and I tried the service on opening day and were impressed.

The restaurant options are a little thin at this point in time. Their success will hinge upon increasing restaurant participation. On the flip side, I’ve witnessed several local restaurants express interest in GoWaiter on twitter.

My wife and I settled on Mambo Jambo as our restaurant choice. Ordering was simple on their webpage, like any online shopping experience for the most part. We picked a few Cuban entrees and added an empanada appetizer. The empanadas were an experiment to see how well they would travel. I was reasonably sure ropa vieja and black beans would survive the trip. Plus, Mambo Jambo makes a killer empanada! I scheduled our delivery for 8:00 and my order was a go.

As my time approached I started getting emails on my order’s progress. It was nice to know that the order didn’t disappear into an internet tube or something. I was told when the restaurant began cooking, when my driver arrived at the restaurant and when he was enroute. The email alerts are customizable, something I would imagine regular customers would want to turn off after a few orders.

My order arrived a little ahead of schedule. The driver introduced himself and shook my hand. What? The stoner-boy pizza delivery guy never shakes my hand! It was a very professional exchange that really was more like a waiter and less like a delivery.

Next he opened a huge insulated suitcase which contained my order. To say my order was still hot is an understatement. I’m pretty sure I burned the roof of my mouth with my first bite of black beans. The empanadas were still in reasonable condition, although they had steamed a little in the box.

All in all, it was a positive experience with no opening day glitches. A fee of $5 is very reasonable for a service like this, especially if they can boost their list of participating restaurants. I love the thought of getting grub delivered to my house from as far away as Crabapple or Holcomb Bridge. Saving the hassle of traffic is worth the five spot.

Also, watch these guys in the social media space as they seem pretty savvy with it. I’d suggest following on twitter @GoWaiter_Alpha

Disclosure: I received a promotional discount from GoWaiter on opening day. My disclosure policy can be found on my about page.

Scootz Gourmet Grill – South Forsyth

August 19, 2011 in Foodie Friday, Reviews with 3 Comments

Every Friday Roots in Alpharetta features an article on food and dining in a series called Foodie Friday.

Sit at a table at Scootz and close your eyes. Imagine being surrounded by dozens of crazed and carbohydrate-fueled children. They’re giggling and laughing at Spongebob on television and playing video games.

I had this little flashback when first visiting Scootz. Yes, this place used to be a Cici’s Pizza. If you look around you might see something that reminds you of the franchise pizza joint. The pizza oven is still visible from parts of the dining room. The video games remain but their days are numbered, soon to be replaced by a private room.

A makeover has transformed this space into a much more comfortable eatery. The Scootz bar beckons visitors to the rear of the restaurant with a few flat screen TVs. Tables are separated by young little ivy plants, ambitious to climb a little trellis set up for each of them.

Like a lot of new, independent restaurants, the menu at Scootz is a hodge-podge of different ideas. It’s heavy on burgers yet includes a Maryland-style crabcake ($22.99 for the entree) made with lump crab meat. You’ll find fish and chicken sandwiches next to a handful of Italian entrees.

Grilled Chicken Sandwich with Parmesan French Fries

The menu didn’t make much sense until I met owner Scooter Aselton. “We’re trying to fill a niche between white tablecloth and everyday,” explained Aselton.

Burgers are a feature here and also a top seller. Their Scootz Burger ($7.99) is your basic, classic hamburger. They start with organic Angus meat, giving it a decent sear. It retained a decent amount of juice but not enough to make soggy the toasted bun. Burgers come to the table impaled through the top of the bun with a large knife.

I wouldn’t go so far as to say Scootz is “reinventing the burger,” a tagline they are using. However, they do an above-average job putting together a classic, well-made burger. It’s easily worth the visit.

The fish and chicken sandwiches at Scootz don’t get enough attention on the menu. The grilled chicken sandwich ($9.99) is made from organic free-range birds and is moist and tender. Topped with marinated and sauteed mushrooms, this sandwich is a winner.

The mahi mahi sandwich ($10.95) comes brushed with garlic butter. What steals the show is a lime aioli that comes on the side. There’s something about the combination of lime and fish that creates an explosion of flavor. I’d rank this fish sandwich among the best I’ve had in the Alpharetta area.

Chicken Piccata

On the Italian side of the menu, try the chicken piccata ($14.99). It features the same tender chicken from the sandwich. The lemon butter sauce is a little on the creamy side but still tasty. If you’re a Scootz regular looking for something different on the menu, I’d give their Italian food a try.

The talent in the Scootz kitchen comes from Chef Eric Banks. This Le Cordon Bleu graduate has a passion for baking. That explains the numerous pies on the menu. They even feature New Orleans style beignets, something not usually seen in our suburb.

Chef Banks is often in the front of the restaurant greeting patrons. His demeanor is friendly and genuine, asking for and usually receiving constructive feedback on every dish.

All in all, Scootz Gourmet Grill has impressed me on several visits. “I’ve catered to kids,” says Aselton of his restaurant’s transformation. “Now I’m ready to feed their parents.”

Scootz Gourmet Grill is located at 5905 Atlanta Highway in south Forsyth.

Photo Credit: Robyn Guy Photography

Scootz Gourmet Grill on Urbanspoon

Alpharetta Restaurant News – August 2011

August 12, 2011 in Foodie Friday with 5 Comments

Every Friday Roots in Alpharetta features an article on food and dining in a series called Foodie Friday.

About once a month I’ve posted a new/closed restaurant column. I’m going to change the format a bit, making this more of a general catch-all article on the Alpharetta-area restaurant scene. Let me know what you think. And as always, please comment if you see anything new or closed that I’ve missed.

Cupcakes in Alpharetta

Alpharetta continues to play catchup in this foodie trend. We’re not seeing a lot of new retail cupcake shops (along the lines of Jilly’s) but rather existing places supplementing their offerings. Here’s what I’ve found that’s new:

Yummy Pieces of Flour – North Point Mall – This oddly named shop opened in a kiosk near the food court. I have not tried them yet, but they’re getting a lot of buzz and playing social media well.  Check out their website, twitter and facebook profiles. Their cupcakes are not baked on site. Perhaps they come from a place like…

Simply Cupcakelicious – Opened last week in an office/industrial park off McFarland Parkway on Shiloh Road. It’s not exactly a retail location so I’m guessing this is more of a wholesale operation. Here’s their website.

La Cupcakerie – The Avenue Forsyth – These guys burst onto the scene back in January with Groupon specials and a lot of hype. Unfortunately they never got off the ground. I hear that Groupon is now refunding La Cupcakerie’s deals.

GoWaiter – North Fulton

GoWaiter is a restaurant delivery service. They have existing franchises in Atlanta, Gwinnett and the Vinings area. A North Fulton franchise is set to open next week featuring a growing list of popular eateries.

Delivery services for restaurants are hardly a new idea. GoWaiter seems to be a little more advanced with menus and ordering online. I’ll give them a shot next week.

Bite

Way back in September 2010 I reported on Field Good selling to a catering outfit called Bite Atlanta. Months went by and I feared that the bad economy swallowed up these guys before they took off. Not so as they finally opened a few weeks ago. I’ve heard glowing feedback on Bite from several people who’s opinions I trust. Put this place on your to-try list! They are located on the corner of Webb Bridge Way and Kimball Bridge, near the post office.

Crafty Draugh – Avenue Forsyth

What’s a growler? I didn’t know until I read Aldo Nahed’s story over at the Forsyth Herald. A few young beer connoisseurs are attempting to open this shop across the street from the Avenue Forsyth. If they can get Forsyth County to relax a few rules, you’ll be able to fill your growlers (small jugs) with craft brewed beer. Cheers!

Heavenly Gourmet Popcorn

100 flavors of popcorn? Bring your dental floss. Heavenly has opened on North Main Street in Alpharetta, a little south of Windward. I’m not a huge popcorn guy, but maybe they’re worth a shot.

Johns Creek Restaurants and the PGA Championship

Several restaurants hurried plans to open in Johns Creek ahead of the PGA Championship this week. Included in the list are Twisted Taco and Smashburger. Sinbad’s Feast also announced an expansion of their restaurant just in time for the golfers. Fore!

Closed Restaurants

K Cafe – Windward – This concept restaurant from the folks at Krystal’s has closed. It’s unfortunate as they were growing on me after a ho-hum first impression.

Durty Kelly’s – This Irish pub on North Main has poured their last pint.

Coming Soon

We’ve talked about these already. I’ll keep a running list in this column of each new joint, with updates when appropriate, until they finally open.

Azul Agave – I was mistaken when I reported they would open in July. Looks like they still have some work to do. My apologizes for the error. I expect them to open on Old Milton Parkway any day now.

Smashburger - Now that the Johns Creek location is open, Windward Parkway appears to be next. Smash has a PR firm running around generating buzz. You won’t be caught off guard when these guys open, trust me.

La Casa Italian Grill – Their making progress but still not open. Two new Italian restaurants in Johns Creek – Rosa Mia and Dal Cuore – have been very well received. I wonder if La Casa will get the same attention in Alpharetta? Look for them in the old Cafe Efendi location downtown.

Dulce Chocolat – A new high-end chocolatier in the works for Old Milton Parkway.

Twisted Taco Express - These guys are probably several months away from opening. Look for them next to Wildflour on Windward and North Point.

Marlow’s Tavern – The Avenue Forsyth

August 5, 2011 in Foodie Friday, Reviews with 2 Comments

Every Friday Roots in Alpharetta features an article on food and dining in a series called Foodie Friday.

I’m a little embarrassed to admit this… I’ve never been to a Marlow’s Tavern. This successful metro Atlanta chain of upscale pubs got their start in Johns Creek on Old Alabama Road. From here they opened seven more locations. Somehow I’ve missed it all until about a week ago when the Avenue Forsyth location made its grand opening.

Marlow’s is in the old Little Azio’s space at the Avenue, directly across from the AMC movie theater. It is a prime spot, especially to host couples doing a dinner and movie date. More on this later.

Marlow’s has done an amazing job with the buildout. Even with a corner location and a fair amount of windows, the interior is dimly lit, creating a sophisticated atmosphere. Inside you’ll find a mix of high-top tables and booths yet few large tables. If you’ve got a big group, this might not be your place. The bar features a garage door that opens to the outside patio. It allows those in the sun the opportunity to belly up to the bar without going inside. It’s a neat set up.

If you’ve been to another Marlow’s location then you’re probably familiar with the menu. It features slightly higher-end pub food. The appetizers stood out the most to me in both taste and originality. My favorite by far was the shrimp and crab “nacho” plate. They take a single nacho chip and cover it with crab meat and a small shrimp. Next comes pepper jack cheese and a thinly sliced jalapeno. Under the broiler it goes until the cheese is golden brown. They are delectable yet pack a decent punch. I also liked the asparagus fries. The veggies are thin, lightly breaded and fried and come with an aioli dipping sauce.

The rest of the menu consists of burgers, sandwiches, salads and others. After setting the bar high with the appetizers, the rest of the menu was a big letdown. Their fish tacos, described as “infamous”, fell short. The tilapia was dry, begging for a sauce to rehydrate it. The menu promised a cream sauce but I didn’t taste much of it. By comparison, Cheeky’s around the corner has a much better fish taco.

The shrimp and grits earn high marks on presentation. Two grit cakes were set to balance at an angle to each other, then smothered with shrimp, tomato, greens and a sauce. Unfortunately the kitchen didn’t execute well on this dish as the greens were mushy and the sauce was under seasoned.

I would be remiss if I didn’t mention the kids menu. While I would not consider Marlow’s kid friendly for toddlers, your older children ought to be fine. The addition of surf and turf, on the kids menu, made me chuckle. Only in the affluent burbs can our kids dine on such an entree! Marlow’s kiddie surf and turf consists of a hamburger slider and a tempura fried shrimp.

Service was polite and hospitable but a little slow. If they wish to thrive next to a movie theater they’ll need to turn tables quicker so folks don’t miss their show. Keep that in mind if you’re considering Marlow’s before your movie.

Perhaps I’m being a little harsh on such a new restaurant yet these guys should have a lot of experience under their belt at this point. Nevertheless they probably need more time to work out all the kinks.

I was impressed with the crowd on a Monday night. It consisted of many good-looking young couples in the 20′s, something you don’t see a lot of in the burbs. Absent were the high school kids, who are normally thick as fleas at The Avenue Forsyth. It just goes to show that Marlow’s is likely to carve out a niche in this area. For a sophisticated and sexy date location before a movie, Marlow’s will become a great choice.  Once they hit their stride, I think Marlow’s will be tremendously successful here.

Disclosure: I received free appetizers from this restaurant during a pre-opening promotion. Read my disclosure policy on my about page.

Marlow's Tavern on Urbanspoon

MyFavEats – A Review

July 29, 2011 in Foodie Friday, Reviews, Technology with 9 Comments

Every Friday Roots in Alpharetta features an article on food and dining in a series called Foodie Friday.

For a few months now you might have seen table tents on Alpharetta-area restaurants touting a service called MyFavEats. And if you’re like me, you probably dismissed the service, perhaps thinking of it as the deal website dejour.

Curiosity got the better of me so I googled MyFavEats. Soon I learned that Alpharetta-based Radiant Systems was behind this start-up. That was enough to get me on the hook. Here’s a local creation that combines current technology with food. That’s right up my alley! I installed the app on my Android smartphone and have been using it for a few weeks now.

The fact that Radiant is behind MyFavEats is significant. They make point-of-sale hardware and software applications used in stores, gas stations and restaurants. So essentially they are already in the back of the restaurant, now they’re trying to put their technology in the hands of the consumers. If they can successfully merge the two, they have the chance to present unique opportunities to both restaurateur and foodie. More on this in a bit.

To the end user, MyFavEats is like a restaurant loyalty card combined with a daily deal site. Using location-aware mobile technology you check-in, registering your visit and marking off another notch on your virtual loyalty card. Much like physical card-based systems, a certain number of visits earns you a free meal or a discount depending on the restaurant involved.

What peaked my interest as an Alpharetta-area restaurant customer is the number of locations participating. The GA-400 corridor is the first testbed for MyFavEats.  I found it easy to locate restaurants offering free daily specials or first check-in deals, cashing in on three half off deals in under a week.

Wanting to learn even more, I reached out to Radiant and their Vice President for Strategic Development, Chris Lybeer. We discussed the technology over lunch at a participating MyFavEats restaurant in Alpharetta.

Lybeer explained that MyFavEats was hatched at the ATDC technology incubator on the campus of Georgia Tech. Radiant’s goal, in some respects, is to create a dossier on your dining habits at a restaurant. By linking a consumer’s visit to their order in the point-of-sale system, the restaurant can learn about their individual likes and preferences. Sales and promotions can be uniquely targeted.

You might be concerned about privacy but consider this; your grocery store or pharmacy is collecting similar information with their sale cards. MyFavEats is similar. Imagine this scenario… using their inventory software, a restaurant realizes they have excess tilapia fillets in their fridge. They pull up a list of frequent customers and discover that Lee eats a lot of fish sandwiches at lunchtime (which is true). They ping me with a special sale on fish sandwiches.

By linking hand-held technology to the point-of-sale terminal in a restaurant, Radiant can offer much more than sales to restaurant patrons. How about the ability to review your order on your smartphone or even pay the bill? It’s pretty easy to do when the mobile technology syncs with the back office. It’s all coming soon from the smart minds at Georgia Tech.

The technology is still pretty new and they’ve got some snags to work out. I experienced some software defects while trying to redeem prizes at a few restaurants. The application is still in a beta testing period at the moment so be patient. Yet Alpharetta-area restaurant goers have a unique opportunity to be first adopters with MyFavEats. The deals are free and numerous.

Alpharetta Restaurant News – July 2011

July 22, 2011 in Foodie Friday with 1 Comment

Every Friday Roots in Alpharetta features an article on food and dining in a series called Foodie Friday.

The summer of 2011 continues to be an extraordinary one for new restaurants in Alpharetta. This food blogger is having a tough time keeping up. Let’s get right to it.

Dulce Chocolat – Old Milton

Alpharetta is about to get a fine chocolatier. Dulce Chocolat has plans to open in September on Old Milton Parkway. Their website is a little sparse at this point, and they promise a facebook page. That’s about all I know but plan to bring my readers more. I believe there is room in Alpahretta for such a shop. Their nearest serious competition would be The Chocolaterie at the Avenue Forsyth.

Scootz Gourmet Grill – South Forsyth

These guys quietly opened recently on Highway 9 in the stripmall with Good Grub Subs and the former Cici’s Pizza. No website is available at this time but they have a menu posted on Urbanspoon. They offer soups, salads, several burgers and some Italian entrees.

Twisted Taco Express – Windward

I first learned of this joint on the blog of the restaurant broker who closed the deal. They are set to open next to Wildflour in the old WOW Wings locations. I looked into the shop yesterday and it appears that they are just now beginning the the demo and buildout. My guess is that they are a few months away. They might be successful simply because of their space next to Wildflour. On days they are bursting at the seams, perhaps Twisted will get overflow customers.

The Coffee Pot – Downtown Alpharetta

Hardly a new coffee shop. This joint is making news by offering liquor with their coffee. The Revue & News has a good article about their concept. This is a great idea in a great location, especially if downtown gets a facelift. I’m in favor of anything that gives local coffee shops a leg up over that chain from Seattle.

 

Tasca Latin Bistro – Johns Creek

July 15, 2011 in Foodie Friday, Reviews with 1 Comment

Every Friday Roots in Alpharetta features an article on food and dining in a series called Foodie Friday.

Tasca’s been on my to-try list for many months now. As my birthday approached this year, I began dropping hints to my wife. Tasca was my first choice for a birthday dinner date. I had high expectations given the chef’s background and some early reviews. I’d say those expectations were half met.

Before Tasca this spot was home to another Latin restaurant called Sazon Grill. They didn’t last long but I recall they put a lot of money into decor. Sazon’s loss was Tasca’s gain as the place looks very similar. It’s classy inside and somewhat casual at the same time. They’ve expanded the bar yet at the time of this writing still don’t serve liquor. They make up for it with a decent beer and wine list.

I don’t often drink beer, but when I do, I prefer $2 import specials on a Saturday night. Indeed it’s true and it took me by surprise. But on a Saturday night they had imported beer from Guatemala on tap for two bucks. That’s hard to pass up. Their sangria is also refreshing and competitively priced. Stay thirsty my friends.

Tasca’s menu is almost evenly divided between tapas and entrees. I started with the scallop ceviche. It’s the perfect summertime appetizer. The scallops, tender and succulent, were swimming in a cool but spicy jalapeno sauce. A bit of roasted corn rounded it out. I’d order it again and again.

My wife tried the tortilla crusted mahi. They use red tortillas which make for a beautiful presentation. I found the fish to be a little too firm for my liking. My wife thought the roasted garlic in the sauce overpowered the entire dish.

My entree, seafood paella, fell flat. They use long grain rice, which isn’t terribly bad but isn’t something I’m accustomed to with this dish. It also lacked that layer of toasted rice that makes paella delectable. The shrimp, scallops and mussels were cooked properly as were the veggies. But in the end, this was just saffron rice cooked in fish stock.

Other Tasca reviews I’ve read mention the young wait staff. Our waiter was a teenager which set me back at first. But I found him to be prompt when necessary, surprisingly knowledgeable of the menu and even a bit funny.

Would I go back to Tasca? Probably so. There’s enough on the menu to hold my interest for a few more visits. If you hurry you can take advantage of a Scout Mob deal for Tasca that’s worth $20 off… or put another way, that’s ten Guatemalan beers!

Tasca Latin Bistro is located at 10970 State Bridge Road in Johns Creek.

Tasca Latin Bistro on Urbanspoon

New Restaurants – July 2011

July 8, 2011 in Foodie Friday with 2 Comments

Every Friday Roots in Alpharetta features an article on food and dining in a series called Foodie Friday.

July is set to be a busy month for restaurant openings. Included in this list are some much anticipated new eateries that I’m excited to try. Let’s dig in!

Azul Agave – Old Milton

I first wrote about these guys way back in November when they were planning to call the joint Blue Agave. Seems like their buildout is finally complete. My sources tell me they will open on July 18th with a soft opening starting next week. They promise to be an upscale, chef-driven Mexican cantina. Look for them in the former Pisces Seafood/Coquettes Steak location on Old Milton Parkway.

Dal Cuore – Johns Creek

This Italian sister restaurant to Burrito Gorilla opened a few weeks ago. Look for them on the Ray Moss Connector near State Bridge and Jones Bridge. Johns Creek is becoming saturated with higher-end Italian restaurants. Can they all survive?

Paradise Biryani Pointe – Windward

They quietly opened in the former Red Hen location on Windward. This appears to be a franchise of some sort. Otherwise I know nothing more. There is a shilling campaign going on with this joint over on yelp. That can be fun to watch.

Abhiruchi Fine Indian Cuisine – Windward

You’ll find these guys right down the road from Paradise in the stripmall with the new Smashburger. They’ve opened in the location of the old Spice Touch Indian. Not sure if this is just a name change or new ownership. Their website suggests that they specialize in biryani. The competition ought to be fierce. And if you’re keeping score at home, this makes four Indian restaurants on Windward Parkway (only two have pronounceable names).

Keso Mexican Grill – Johns Creek

They’ve recently opened in the Johns Creek Walk mixed use development (near Essex Bagels). I know nothing more but it’s good to see more stuff in this depressed development.

Other Openings

Smashburger opened their first Atlanta location yesterday in Buckhead. I drove by the Windward location last night and it appears they still have a lot to do. I seriously doubt they will be ready this month. That’s unfortunate as their Buckhead location is getting some great early reviews.

Marlow’s Tavern at The Avenue Forsyth is set to open on July 26th.

Competitive Eating in Alpharetta

July 1, 2011 in Foodie Friday with 0 Comments

Every Friday Roots in Alpharetta features an article on food and dining in a series called Foodie Friday.

Get your Rolaids ready and call Adam Richman, it’s time to talk competitive eating!

I’ve wanted to write this article for a long time but have held off. I’m disappointed this area doesn’t have more such contests, especially considering how popular competitive eating is on television. Nevertheless, here are four challenges sure to bust your gut. If you know of any I’ve missed, please let me know! My wife has forbidden me from attempting any of these challenges. She need not worry as they are all too daunting, even for this portly gastronome.

Dutch Monkey Doughnuts – Independence Day Doughnut Eating Competition

2010 Dutch Monkey Doughnut Contest

I learned a new term after reading the rules of this event: “Roman Indecent”. The folks at Dutch Monkey posted an Urban Dictionary link to the definition (be very afraid of any term defined on this site). Here’s the definition. It’s probably a term you should know while reading this article. Nevertheless, having a Roman incident will immediately disqualify you from this contest.

And what a contest it is. This will be DMD’s second year hosting the Independence Day event. Here’s how it works. Only a handful of contestants are chosen (you have to apply). They are each given a dozen doughnuts which must be eaten in fifteen minutes. Last year the doughnuts were their raised glazed variety. This year they are only mini buttermilk cake doughnuts. But don’t let the small size fool you, cake doughnuts are dense.

The winner will receive a trophy, $50 gift card and their picture on the wall. The contest will be on Sunday July 3rd at 1:00. It ought to be fun to watch (barring a Roman incident of course). There are also contests for kids.

Dutch Monkey Doughnuts is in south Forsyth at 3075 Ronald Reagan Blvd.

Scoops – The Kitchen Sink

Eight scoops of ice cream, bananas, nearly every topping available and a lot of whipped cream. That’s how the kitchen sink weighs in, all packed into a bowl shaped like a sink. Only two people have ever finished this beast of a sundae in the required 45 minutes. Doing so earns you a t-shirt, your picture on the wall and a 50% discount on the sundae (yeah, you still have to pay for it). But if you don’t finish, you’d better be ready to fork over nearly 50 bucks. Ouch!

On my last visit to Scoops I watched two high school kids each attempt the kitchen sink. They got about half way through before it hit them. Don’t underestimate what this much dairy will do in your belly. Of all the challenges in this article, I believe this one to be the most difficult.

Scoops is located in Crabapple at 12670 Crabapple Road.

Erwoods – Double Dog Dare

Six feet of hot dog. It’s basically two of their three foot “yard dogs” positioned end-to-end. As of this writing there isn’t really a contest to eat these. You don’t earn anything by finishing it (other than perhaps a terrible case of heart burn). But I understand that something may be in the works soon. Erwoods also has a monster burger on the menu, weighing in at 1.5 pounds.

Erwoods Kitchen and Keg is located in Crabapple at 12635 Crabapple Road.

Chepe’s – Monster Burrito

It’s described simply as having “mucho beef, mucho Mexican rice and mucho Mexican beans” all wrapped in a flour tortilla. Chepe’s is among my least favorite Mexican joints. I have absolutely no desire to ingest mucho anything from this place. Maybe you do. If so, consuming their monster burrito will earn you a free Chepe’s t-shirt… and my condolences.

Chepe’s Mexican Grill has two south Forsyth locations and two in Marietta.

Photo Credit: Dutch Monkey Doughnuts, used with permission.

Around the World in Alpharetta

June 24, 2011 in Foodie Friday with 10 Comments

Every Friday Roots in Alpharetta features an article on food and dining in a series called Foodie Friday.

Let’s take a trip around the culinary world, without leaving town. Here are a few of my favorites. I’ll try to stick to authentic eats as best I can.

Jamaica – Caribbean Fiesta

Jerk chicken that will set your mouth on fire! It’s juicy chicken that packs a peppery and spicy kick. You’ll also find oxtails and several other meats on their cafeteria-style lunch counter. Watch out for this location (on the corner of North Point and Old Milton). It’s very crowded for lunch with parking spaces filling up fast.

Chinese – Sichuan House

I’m pretty sure that kung pow and General Tso’s chicken are not authentic Chinese dishes. But if you want them, Sichuan House will make them. But stick to the “authentic” side of their menu. It’s full of Sichuan-style cuisine. While not as spicy and hot as Hunan style, Sichuan cooking will rock your mouth with tongue numbing goodness. Try the hot boiled fish or three cup chicken.

Sichuan House is located at 5900 State Bridge Road in Johns Creek, near Target.

India – Madrass Chettinaad

Alpharetta has an amazingly diverse Indian restaurant scene. We’re starting to see specialized Indian restaurants open up, for example Zafraan Hyderabadi in south Forsyth and the new Paradise Biryani Pointe on Windward. My Indian palate isn’t refined enough to tell them apart at this point. A safe bet for Indian is Madrass Chettinaad on Old Milton (formally Minerva). They’ve remodeled the place since the Minerva days and it’s beautiful. They still have Alpharetta’s biggest lunch buffet yet is priced competitively related to their peers. They’ve also got some social media deals out there. Bonus points if you can pronounce “Chettinaad” as I certainly cannot.

Middle East – Babas Gyro and Kabob

I’ve written a lot about Jerusalem Bakery so let’s give them a rest. Babas in south Forsyth is an uber-popular hole in the wall. But this little gem is no longer a secret. Their gas station location is often slammed on nights and weekends. Their falafel is excellent as are all their kabobs. The menu also has a few Italian options. Say hi to Fred, the friendly owner with the authentic-sounding name.

Baba’s is located at 2310 Ronald Reagan Blvd in south Forsyth. Look for them down the road from the Avenue Forsyth, next to a gas station.

Thai – Satay House

Again, my lack of a refined Thai palate fails me here. I like just about all of Alpahretta’s Thai restaurants. Satay House won the coin flip to get mentioned in this article. It’s probably safe to say they are our oldest Thai restaurant, and the inside of this place shows it. Their coconut soup is by far the best in town. It’s thicker and richer than any other. I also like their prices at lunch, which are not much more than fast food.

Satay House is at 281 South Main Street in Alpharetta.
Sichuan House on Urbanspoon Caribbean Fiesta on Urbanspoon

Madras Chettinaad on Urbanspoon Baba's Gyro & Kabob on Urbanspoon

Satay House on Urbanspoon

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