Laura Biscardi, artist of the month

My friend Laura is a phenomenal artist, and will soon have art hanging in a living room near you. Be the first on your block to put this up so you can say "I knew her when..."

Yogurberry

Lunchtime and I find myself in Buckhead, near the Terminus building. I had eaten a pretty stout breakfast, and I was pressed for time, so I thought I would go light for lunch. If I was not to eat a large portion, my choice needed to be a healthy one.

I stepped into Yogurberry.

There were some pretty low numbers on the Nutrition Facts board.
Twenty five calories per ounce, of which five come from fat! The team there also told me that their yogurt had other health benefits, such as a special ingredient that helps with digestion and weight loss.

That all being understood, I expected a "treat" with little taste. I was wrong. With twenty-two flavors and a myriad of fresh, healthy toppings (as well as the candy toppings), Yogurberry is anything BUT lacking in flavor.



I opted for a Taro/Plain twist with blueberry toppings. My friend JT chose to try a raspberry smoothie with raspberries on top. I am not sure who got the better treat.



Taro is an interesting flavor. Think blueberry with a twist of citrus. Adding the blueberries as a topping was a natural fit, and a delicious accessory.

The health benefits alone make this a good "quick lunch" choice. Yogurberry delivers to points inside the perimeter, and provides free WiFi to its patrons. All this with no preservatives and zero guilt.

If you are looking for a treat, or a delicious dessert, or even a lunchtime substitute, I recommend giving Yogurberry a try!

Yogurberry is located in Atlanta at 3280 Peachtree Rd NE, which is the Terminus Bldg. Parking is free when under two hours (ask for a validation ticket). Step out of the parking garage, go right, and there it is!

Fickle Pickle

I have GOT to go back to this place, and soon!

Just the other day, I met some friends for a casual business lunch at Fickle Pickle in Roswell. This place is a gem. It is carved into an older home, with dining areas occupying what used to be bedrooms and sitting rooms. The hardwood floors are complimented by the dark painted walls, adorned with the artwork of many local artists.

The ordering is done deli-style, complete with the huge menu board and the smiling "what'll you have?". Intelligently, the staff places the Red Velvet Cupcakes front and center just before you get to order.

When ordering, it is important to make sure a serving of fried pickles will be delivered. Unless you have an army with you, get the half serving. The important thing is to get some. The pickles are fried Cajun style with Remoulade sauce, and are a must have!

The menu is full of comfort-food type sandwiches and salads as well as a handful of dinner entrees that look very appealing. The kids are not left out, as the menu gives a wide variety of smaller portioned meals.

One of my friends ordered the Chicken Salad, which is normally offered on a croissant, but she opted to go without the croissant. The Chicken Salad that she got was plenty of food to satisfy an afternoon, especially when coupled with a choice of soup as a side. Fickle Pickle's Chicken Salad is made with hazelnuts, dried cherries, celery and taragon. I almost wish I had ordered it. Almost.

Across from me, my other friend ordered the Roasted Vegetable Sandwich. Served on sourdough bread, the Roasted Vegetable Sandwich comes with portobello mushroom, zucchini and red pepper along with a side order of your choice. Another one I almost wish I'd ordered. Almost.

Finally, my plate. First I'll say it was more food than I needed. Then I will say I am glad. I ordered the Creole Cuban. Smoked ham and turkey, Swiss cheese, Cajun pickles and Creole remoulade sauce on grilled sourdough. I had the potato salad as my side dish. That sandwich was well worth my time and energy, as well as my money.

Cap off all that food with a smart array of dessert treats that include some of the best cookies and cakes I have had in a while, and lunch is complete. All that is missing is a nap.

Friends, chef Andy Badgett has done something special here. he has helped us come back to main street with a gourmet menu in a down-home setting complete with catering and party services. I can't wait to try Fickle Pickle's sibling, Relish!, but that's another review.

Lenox Square Grill

A while back, I had the privilege to attend a function at Lenox Square Grill.

The approach was forbidding. The edifice is that of a high-dollar restaurant, and the fact that they offered valet parking made me clench my wallet.

By driving thirty feet further, I found I could park my own car. As I stepped inside, I saw the white linen, the high ceilings and dark wood. I saw the impressive bar and the fit, sharp looking servers. I gripped my wallet.

I was seated at a large table. The candle flickered. The impression of my fingers on my wallet was deepening. My server brought me the menu.

I am here to tell you to fear not.


I ordered a burger, fries and a coke. A very good burger, I will add. Tax included, $7.72. I could eat at McD's for that price, but not many other places, and certainly not in Buckhead.

That was on a Thursday night. Why wasn't the place packed? The staff seemed happy. The ambiance was great. The service was very good and the prices great.

I'm thinking it's the forbidding front. Do yourself a favor. Drive thirty feet down the road and park your own car. Pay not attention to the high ceiling, white-linened, dark wood dining room. Ignore the great looking staff. Just ask for a menu.

Genki Noodles & Sushi

A short while ago, I had the distinct privilege of visiting Genki's Prado location in Sandy Springs. Genki Noodles & Sushi opened its doors first in Buckhead back in 1996, a week before the start of the Olympics in Atlanta. Thirteen years later, in October of 2009, the Prado location began serving its patrons.


The website refers to the word Genki as having the meaning "a happy and warm feeling". Genki's dining room proves the description. Wide open with a long bar, fish tanks and bright colors, this is definitely a place to bring the family early and a date later. Kids are right at home watching the brightly colored fish in one tank and jellyfish in another.


The tables are simply set, some booths offer privacy, and some tables allow you to be a part of the party. The open, airy dining room is like a friendly smile, welcoming and comfortable.

The menu is broad so that everyone can find food to their liking. Price points range from $3 - 11 for soups and salads. Tuna specialties go for $13.95, "Tuna Symphony" for $35. You can create your own noodle bowl at a wide range of prices from $9 - 18. The menu goes on and on, with specialty and traditional sushi rolls too numerous to list.


I started with Somen noodles with sweet soy and sesame seeds. This dish is served cold and is delicious. I followed that with Hamachi Kama, a Japanese delicacy, which is marinated and grilled yellowtail cheek. I found it to be particularly tasty and enjoyable. The bones are long, and relatively easy to avoid.


After the Hamachi Kama, I went on to try the Goma Beef. This is a bowl of grilled beef, stir fried with julienne vegetables in a spicy sesame sauce, served over ramen noodles. The goma beef was very good, spiced just perfectly, with fresh, crisp veggies.

Not done yet. On came the sushi. A beautiful plate with Poker Face Roll, a combination of Ahi Poki, cucumber and avocado with escolar, red and black tobiko and wasabi cream. As most of you know, I am not a sushi pro, but this was very good.

Now, you have to wash all this food down with something. Genki offers a wide variety of drinks, including a good selection of Sake. Whatever you choose, you can't miss. Every week, Genki offers up "Wine Wednesday", giving you a choice of very affordable bottles from $12 - 24 which becomes even more affordable when shared among friends.

At the Buckhead location, Monday nights are "Sake and Spin", when Genki's own DJ Heather b spins away as the restaurant offers up $10 Sake flights and $2 Sake shots.

Genki will deliver within a three mile radius of each location, and offers great lunch specials for under $10. Catering and private party packages are available as well. Watch for upcoming events like the "Prado Patio Crawl" on April 29th. The restaurants of the Prado will combine to make that a memorable event.

This visit to Genki was delicious and pleasant. I will be back for more...

Sweet Melissa's

Choosing a restaurant in Decatur is tough. In a small area, there are a half dozen places that could make me feel happy and full. Just walk past the array of them and the aromas will drive you to open a door and order.

Today, I chose Sweet Melissa's.

When my family and I stepped in, I immediately sensed a problem. My family likes privacy, and that was obviously out of the question. The place was packed, and the tables were close enough together that conversations and company could easily be shared.

Upon selecting a table, our fears were assuaged. We realized that here, communal dining is the norm, necessary, and somehow right. From the name of the place, an obvious reference to the Allman Brothers, to the well worn floors and tables, and the modern day hippie attire and attitude of the servers, this place felt like home.

Well past brunch, this was definitely time to order lunch. I scanned the list of sandwiches, had a decision made, and then a server brought a breakfast dish to the table next to us. Quickly, the menu popped back open, and I selected a breakfast fit for a starving hippie.

I ordered the Goose's Delight omelet. Three eggs, bacon, ham, salami, pepperoni and cheddar jack. The omelet was incredible. The cheese had to be cut to eat it. The biscuit on the side was huge and real. No assembly line here. I could taste the flour.

Now if only I can convince them to open up for dinner....

Schroeder's New Deli

On a short lunch break, what is quicker and more satisfying than a good deli? For a little more than the price of a fast food meal, I got some very good food at Schroeder's New Deli on Martha Berry Highway in Armuchee (Rome), Ga. By the way, if you don't say it "ArMURchee" be prepared to be corrected. It seems the founding fathers left out the r when they named the town after the local native american tribe.


This is the second of three Schroeder's, the first being on Broad in Rome and the third in Cartersville. The restaurant is a local favorite, with a beach-like feel, and food that befits both the theme and the geographic area. Music from the 60's plays overhead, and portraits of The Beatles, Joplin, The Who and Hendrix among others hang on the walls.

Before I start on the food, I must say that the staff seems to really enjoy their work. To me, that is the mark of good management and a cornerstone of good service. Keep 'em happy, Schroeder's!


According to the staff, three food items hold the throne at Schroeder's. Fried Mushrooms, Fried Pickles and the Roast Beef Relief sandwich. I am not a huge fan of mushrooms, but I did enjoy the fried pickle spears and the Roast Beef Relief. The Ham Roll was also good. I am told they have decent pizza, but I didn't try it.


I will, though. Because I will be back.

Maum

When I first stepped into Maum, it was because I had seen others with their computers working away. It was close to where I was working, and might prove to be a good spot to catch up on my writing. I soon realized that this place would not just be a place to buy something small so that I didn't feel bad about using their WiFi.

The first thing I saw was a huge case of cakes and pastries. A cake of every flavor filled the case in a way that would make a child dream of birthdays to come...


The dessert trays were enticing enough that I could only hope that my meal would not be sufficient to satisfy my hunger.

The smell of fresh breads lightly permeated the room. There was a bread for every occasion.

The lunch menu was dotted with soups, salads and sandwiches. Coffees, teas and gourmet bottled drinks, as well as the old stand-by Coke were available. The sandwich prices looked to be high at six or seven dollars apiece, but I ordered anyway. Chicken Salad. It came with chips and a side of sliced tomatoes and pickles.


I made my way to my table and waited for just a moment. Then I saw the sandwich that I ordered, and the price was suddenly reasonable.

Three slices of bread, separated by Chicken salad that has to be tasted to be appreciated! The blend of chicken with raisins, mayo, nuts and lettuce transformed this ordinary light lunch into a delicious meal that I could not finish. Not in the thirty minutes I had to spare, anyway.

So with one more longing look at the dessert case, I made a promise to myself that I would return...

Welcome Felicia Atwell

Felicia Atwell is a local photographer, student and friend. We welcome her exquisite taste in restaurants, tea and coffee shops, events and people to our table, as will you when you read her entries and view her photos.

Felicia will be posting with us here, at Urban Spoon, Where the Locals Eat and as a contributing staff member to North Georgia Leisure magazine.

She can be reached at email@atwellphotography.com as well as felicia.atwell@ngleisure.com.

View her fine photography at atwellphotography.com

tahCha Teahouse

By Felicia Atwell

tahCha Tea House on Chamblee Tucker Road in Atlanta, GA is worth sharing. OPen only since June of 2009, tahCha was a great find. I stumbled upon it one day in between my classes at Mercer. Owner Tahirih (Tah for short) calls it her baby. I have personally become a regular at this quaint local establishment, which is a tea-based answer to your ordinary cafes and coffee shops. On a late afternoon, this is a wonderful, mellow setting to enjoy a hot tea from a wide array of choices.


Not a tea connoisseur? Trust the tea experts who are equuipped with the tea knowledge to help you. There are approximately fifty tea leaf varieties to choose from, and a grand amount of combinations that make very exotic and satisfying teas, whether you prefer hot or cold. The menu at tahCha also includes additional beverage options, such as herbal lemonade and French Press Coffee, as well as a delicious menu of Panini, wraps, quiche, soups, salads, and sweet eats. Cupcakes, cakes, and bubble tea drinks are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. Prices range from $3 - $11 including food and drinks. It's a great price point for anyone to enjoy.


If you're just in the mood for browsing or finding a gift to give, tahCha also has a gift section that includes unique mugs, soaps, jewelry and magnets, most of which are hand-crafted - and don't forget loose tea.

The layout of the Tea House offers many seating options. You can meet with friends at a large table in a quiet corner, relax in one of the plush sofas or chairs, chit chat with the tea experts while sitting at the bar, enjoy the global experience with Middle Eastern style low-seating, or just have a traditional sit down at one of the tables. tahCha's capacity is 100 people, making it well-equipped for events and parties.


On today's visit, it is recommended that I try the Tuscan Turkey Panini to accompany my "tahCha-Cha" tea. When I ask for the right tea... for me... today, the sixth day in which I've had no voice, I was offered to try this chamomile, peppermint and lemongrass tea, served with honey and slices of lemon to soothe and calm me. Thanks goes to the ever-helpful and delightful Trang, for this suggestion. Perfect!! Served by the pot, I sipped on my cup gripped in both hands while it was still hot, knowing the end of the glass wasn't the end of my cozy and comforting tea experience.


The Panini came out, beautifully plated on a rectangular platter with a colorful and fresh fruit salad on a bed of mixed greens. The fruit was nicely chilled and very sweet. Delicious!

The aura of the tea house was also lovely with global music overhead, and photographs adorning the interior. It is understandable why this is a meeting place for friends, tea lovers, college students and almost anyone who wants to relax, perhaps read a book or use tahCha's free Wi-Fi. tahCha is very comfortable, and the pace is slow and easy. I don't mind sharing my before-class hideout. I genuinely invite you to make this communiTEA your own cherished Tea House.

Contact -
Tahirih Merkel
3352-c Chamblee-Tucker Rd.
Atlanta, GA 30341
770.454.8103

Hours of Operation:
Monday - Saturday 10am - 11pm
Sunday 11am - 6pm

Steak 'n Shake

I made a promise not long ago that I would only post positive reviews. I am about to break that promise.

I visited Steak 'n Shake in Acworth tonight. My wife and I had just finished shopping for a few things, and thought a light dinner was in order, and Steak and Shake would be a treat. We had very little wait, as there were plenty of tables.

I ordered chicken fingers, and Phyllis ordered a turkey club. Easy enough, and delivered in a timely fashion. Everything went sour from there.

Soon enough, my drink glass was empty. After a pass or two, our server asked if I wanted a refill. I responded yes, and about ten minutes later was provided one. When that came, I ordered a milk shake for dessert.

I noticed that a group of students had come in the door, as had a middle aged couple, and three elderly ladies. All of those people stood by the "Please Wait To Be Seated" sign for quite some time. Keep in mind, there were several empty tables, and an ample wait staff hanging around the pickup window, seemingly unaware of duties to perform.

After several minutes had passed, the five or six students walked out, never having been spoken to. A few minutes after that, the middle aged couple stepped around the hostess station to see what was going on. After getting someones attention, they were seated at one of the many empty tables. The elderly women were taken care of at the same time.

There were several young people working. The majority of them were paying more attention to each other than the dining room. There were two people who appeared to be management (they had on regular clothes instead of a uniform). For the most part of my visit, I saw only the female manager, who seemed to be helping the cooks.

After waiting a good ten minutes for my milk shake, I told my wife we were leaving. At that point, as we stood up, our waitress looked up from her conversation with an "Oh YEAH" look on her face and ran to the shake machine.

At the register, I told the hostess/cashier that I never got my shake, and wanted only to pay for my original order. She asked me if I wanted to wait for a shake to go, because it had already been added to my bill. I said no, I was only paying for the original order, as I had anticipated enjoying the shake at my table and not while I drove. She then turned and walked away from me, to ask the manager for permission to change my order. That was when I saw the second manager, back by the desk, doing I don't know what.

I put the money for my original order on the register and walked out.

I could blame the service tonight on the wait staff. OR I could direct the blame where it belongs. On a Saturday night, the managers should be on the floor. They should be ringing the register, greeting the guests, and most importantly, giving direction to a very ample staff that had relatively little clue as to what to do with their time. If we are to expect a team to perform, we should be providing direction.

Tilted Kilt - Johns Creek

Tilted Kilt has its roots in Las Vegas, a city known for over the top entertainment and almost dressed women. The uniforms of this restaurant fit that bill perfectly (the girls probably appeared modest when compared to the expected dress code of the town). Although the original Las Vegas location has closed, a chain of offspring restaurants has opened up here in Johns Creek and across the country wherever sports bars are the norm or college kids abound. A menu of moderately priced pub food enhanced by some seriously good comfort food, steak, chicken and pasta entrees is accentuated by highly attentive service.

The staff is predominantly young women. There are a good number of men, but they are much like stage hands for a play, meant to perform a duty and remain unseen (except, possibly by the good many thirty-plus year old female patrons I saw there on my visit). While the ladies' uniform (long, tasseled white socks, a very small plaid skirt, a tartan sports bra and a short white dress shirt tied off to show off the midriff) brings to mind Hooters and other restaurants aimed at men, this place is somehow different.

To begin with, the floorplan is more sophisticated. The Johns Creek tilted Kilt is a handful of dining areas. The large dining area surrounds on three sides a very large bar that has a second outer bar. One of the smaller dining areas is a small room off to one side, while the other dining area also houses the gaming (billiards and electronic games). These rooms have that old pub feel that makes one feel at home.

In addition to the floor plan, the menu separates TK from the other restaurants that target men. Most of those restaurants are limited to wings and pub sandwiches. Not so here at TK. This menu does have all of the usual pub foods. Nachos, wings, hamburgers, chicken sandwiches and the rest are all there. They even serve wraps. There are ales of every kind as well. The big difference between TK and their competitors lies in the entree section of the menu. There you will find shepherd's pie, a meatloaf sandwich, steak, fettuccine, lasagna, chicken and a sausage platter (served with maple mustard vinaigrette, peppers, onions and a side of Gaelic mashed potatoes).

Intent on comparing the pub foods? Let me toss a few choices at you.

First, the classic "Big Arse" Hamburger. I don't know when I have had a better Angus beef hamburger. Ten ounces, grilled the way I like it and served with some great fries.

Not in the mood for a burger or wings? Get the "One Shot Johnny" pizza. A combination of pepperoni, sausage and bacon with just the right amount of sauce and cheese decorates a crust that is not too thick or too thin. This pizza is sized just right for a man with an appetite.

The prices are competitive, with the pub foods hovering around $9 and the entrees from $11 to $17. The service is good, attentive and friendly, as you might expect. Yes, the uniform is skimpy. I would buy this food, however, if the servers wore burlap sacks.