Wednesday, April 29, 2009

Just Another Day at Taco Mac

Two middle-aged men get up from the bar and cross the room toward the door. In passing, one smilingly makes a comment to the table of four pretty coeds, whose giggles get even louder, turning into outright laughter. The Marlins and the Mets are tied at two, The Orioles trail the Angels by two, the White Sox lead Seattle 1 – 0, and Manchester United has Arsenal on their heels. Christina brings me a perfectly made “Hollywood” sandwich. Just another day at Taco Mac.


The Hollywood is a chicken breast sandwich with bacon, mushrooms, cheese and onions. I like their seasoned fries, so that was my side. When accompanied by a glass of sweet tea, you have a very good lunch.




The food is good here, but I came here today, over a few other places, because of the atmosphere and service. Face it. There are a lot of restaurants which produce competitively tasty food. That being said, logic dictates returning to a place where the service or atmosphere makes me happier.

So here I sit, cooling off on a mid-80’s day with Christina serving a very good meal, happy coeds, two mid-life crises, Manchester United and a wide choice of baseball games.

Taco Mac on Urbanspoon

Friday, April 17, 2009

Trackside Grill


Every now and then, something falls my way.

Consider Trackside Grill.

At 2840 South Main Street in Kennesaw, this restaurant sits between Main street and the railroad tracks, under a beautiful canopy of leaves. On a sunny, cool spring day, the temptation is to dine al fresco. Today, however, I need to see the dining room.

After being seated, I took a look around. Black and white photos that depict local life and days gone by adorn the walls. The dining room is cozy, but can seat a surprising number of patrons. It feels very homey. Very comfortable. This is a place where locals come to visit, discuss politics, business and personal goings-on in a classy, but down home atmosphere.

It was time to order. I got the Pesto Chicken Grill with a side of Potato Salad. In less than ten minutes, my food was in front of me. Susie, my server, was extremely pleasant, and never let my glass go empty (the tea is served in oversized mason jars).




The Potato Salad was made southern style with red potatoes, and it was delicious. The Pesto Chicken Grill was made with baby spinach, mozzarella & pesto mayo on a toasted hoagie. Wonderful, and filling. I had difficulty finishing my meal. The chicken breast was an inch thick and cooked perfectly.

At lunch time, sandwiches here are all $8.95. The Entrees range from $10-14. There is also a $4.95 kids menu.

I intend to return to try the "Comfort Classics" on a Wednesday, when they are on special for $10. Look at the menu on their website. That Wednesday special is a value, my friends!

More information, and all menus can be seen at their website (follow the link below the title).

Trackside Grill on Urbanspoon

Thursday, April 2, 2009

Bailey's Revisited



Writing about restaurants is wonderful until you start to feel guilty about revisiting one when you know you should be trying someplace new. I never thought twice, however, about dining at Bailey's. Re-read my earlier entry for a full description of the place. The plush chairs and the old English pub environment draws me to this man-friendly comfort zone.




Erin was my server today. She was quick and attentive, and made me feel right at home. I ordered a Chicken Philly with fries and a ginger ale. The Chicken Philly was made to order, and I enjoyed it very much.

Here's the real kicker. My whole emphasis with these entries has revolved around value. Did I get what I paid for? Do I want to go back? The answer to both is yes. I have not been in Bailey's and been uncomfortable. The food has always been good and the service as good or better than most places. Back to the value. Ginger ale:$2.29 and Chicken Philly $5.99. Very good deal. I got out of there for just over $8.00, where the same lunch at most places would cost over $10.00. $8.00 will barely get me out of Arby's, and they don't have plush leather chairs and several tvs. It is surprising to me that the place wasn't packed, given the lunch bargain they provide.



Kellie, the events coordinator came by to speak to me, and told me how much she really enjoyed working there. I can't emphasize enough how important a happy staff is. Kellie is going to help me arrange a party soon. I'll be sure to write about that as well.




Bailey's Pub and Grill on Urbanspoon