Spice Market

Jean-Georges Vongerichten, who has wowed culinary artisans the world over, brought to us in 2008 his Spice Market Atlanta. I won't try to impress you by spouting out facts, but let me just say that the opportunity to sample the art of a world renowned chef is one that should never be passed up.

My daughter and I had the opportunity to share in some delights at this beautiful restaurant. We were struck by the simple beauty of the modern dining room which contrasted with the huge array of thick-roped bells hanging from the high ceiling inside a wooden framework with an Asian flair. Our semi-circular booth was extremely comfortable, and afforded a wide-open view of Midtown Atlanta.

The wait staff was dressed in traditional Southeast Asian garb, and moved about quickly and quietly as they worked the room. The atmosphere and service was outstanding. Our server, Roy, never missed a need, was extremely knowledgeable as well as helpful.

Food, here at Spice Market, is served family style to encourage sharing. Each entree is sized for one, if that is all you intend to eat. I would encourage you to order a variety of entrees appropriate for your group size, so that you can each sample more than one delicacy.

Spice offers an extensive wine and cocktail list, along with an array of domestic and imported beers. there are also non-alcoholic cocktails for those who like the taste but not the effect. My daughter and I started things off with some housemade Jasmine Lemonade and Fresh Ginger Ale. The Jasmine Lemonade is indeed strong, but genuinely tasty. The Ginger Ale reminds you what it is made of, and is like no ginger ale that can be bought at a store. Also very enjoyable.

The appetizers we tried were the Vietnamese Spring Roll, Chicken Skewers with Lime Dipping Sauce, Black Pepper Shrimp with Sun Dried Pineapple, and Spiced Chicken Samosas with Cilantro Yogurt.

The safe American will go for the Chicken Skewers. Although they were good, I will tell you to come out of your shell and go for the Spring Roll. Don't go looking for cabbage inside this roll. You will find Lobster, shrimp and pork. Wrap that in a beautiful green leaf and dip it. Once you taste it, you will thank me. By the way, if you like the spicier things, go for the Samosas. I went from Spring Roll to Samosa until they were all gone.

The entrees we were served were the Chargrilled Chicken with Kumquat Lemongrass Dressing and the Cod with Malaysian Chili Sauce Thai Basil. On the side, fried rice with one egg, sunny side up.


My daughter would encourage you to try the chicken, as she liked the kumquats and the flavor that the dressing gave the chicken. Both of us, however loved the Cod, which happens to be the Chef's signature dish. The fish was delicious, and the spices added wonderful flavor without taking over.
Finally, desserts. Roy brought two for us to share. The first, Thai Jewels and Fruit with Crushed Coconut served over ice was deliciously cold with sweet, slightly chewy pieces of fruit adorning a bed of ice cold milky coconut meat. Obviously this one was good.

The second, we liked even better. Ovaltine Kulfi, Caramelized Banana, Spiced Milk Chocolate Sauce (decorated with housemade caramel popcorn). I won't even try to do this justice. It was absolutely delicious!


A final word. Thank you to Megan, who is as intelligent, charming and gracious as she is lovely. Bethany and I had a wonderful time.