Martha Stewart was recently in town to sign her two latest books "Martha Stewart's Cooking School" and "Martha Stewart's Cookies" at the Georgia Aquarium. Although she only had time for one dinner, she had several local eateries she wanted to sample. Judging by the list it seems the domestic diva is well informed about our culinary scene and award winning chef's currently making Atlanta their home.
As Martha knows, this southern-style American eatery does it right. Watershed is a collaboration between the Indigo Girl’s Emily Saliers and award winning Chef Scott Peacock who specializes in seasonal southern cooking. They have the best fried chicken and mouthwatering biscuits you’ll find. Chef Peacock made them on Martha's show and she's been a fan ever since. See for yourself every Tuesday.
Bacchanalia is another restaurant brought by the Star Provisions team of fine food specialists. They are "Atlanta's most celebrated restaurant featuring contemporary American cuisine." Their famed Blue Crab Fritter with Citrus and Thai Pepper Essence is not only popular with the patrons, but the staff as well. They are a little pricey, but after you finish your fourth course you'll understand why. Make sure to check their extensive wine list, perfect for the true wine connoisseur.
"Top Chef" runner-up Richard Blais quit his position at the restaurant "Home" to concentrate on his many projects including FLIP. This gourmet burger place is not your average grill. Expect a vast array of culinary artistry poured into America's favorite menu item, the burger.
“The good things in life”, that’s what Cakes & Ale means and we know Martha knows a 'good thing.' This Decatur restaurant and bar offers food made daily from scratch. Even though it's convenient to the Emory campus, Cakes & Ale doesn’t really have a college crowd draw, but for the Decatur in-towners this is a good spot to come and hang out. Enjoy beer, wine and spirits at the bar or have an order the baked halibut with spring vegetables and salsa verde. The delicious menu is always changing with items that range from steak and burgers to fish and salads. Martha was curious what the "cakes were," but you don't have to be.
Martha may want to stop by and see if Luda incorporated their origami craft into the restaurant. The sleekly designed Straits in Atlanta is a partnership between Chef Chris Yeo and Atlanta’s own Chris "Ludacris" Bridges, who says after experiencing “Yeo’s modern spin on Singaporean cuisine combined with the sexy dining experience" he wanted to bring this restaurant home to Atlanta. Straits authentic yet modernized interpretation of Singaporean cuisine is a must try.
While she didn't mention it, with Repast Chef Joe Truex scheduled to appear on Martha's show, we're sure next visit she will stop at the unique urban space home to Southern and Asian-influenced contemporary American cuisine.
So dining in Atlanta is a "good thing." Where would you tell Martha to eat next time she's in town?
