Restaurant Update

I had such a great time trying out new restaurants that I decided to continue it. My co-workers have been happy to accompany me. Since the beginning of the year we have the opportunity to visit several new places. Below is a quick overview of each. My apologies for no pictures, I'll try to remember to take some on our future restaurant visits.

Creole Nouvelle is a quaint (read tiny) New Orleans style bistro located downtown Atlanta. I attended college in New Orleans and fell in love with the food and culture. With that in mind I was anxious to try Creole Nouvelle especially since Red Fish Creole Bistro shuttered its doorsL. I opted for the red beans and rice while my co-workers tried the gumbo. OMG! My red beans were absolutely delicious as they were perfectly seasoned. I ordered some shrimp and crawfish etoufee to go for L which he enjoyed. My co-workers enjoyed their dishes as well. I will add this to my list of places for lunch takeout as it is walking distance from my office.

Ria's Bluebird located in the Grant Park neighborhood of Atlanta. It is another cute little spot with the emphasis on little. No, I really mean little. Luckily, we got there in time for an open table and did not have to wait outside. The staff was extremely friendly and the food was equally good. Since they were also serving breakfast, a favorite of mine, I decided to go that route. Although I wanted the pancakes I also wanted to try something different. The sweet potato cake was my something different. Basically, it is a sweet potato pie or casserole filling that has been seared on a grill top to mimic a pancake. The food and staff were good but I am not quite sure if I'll visit again as the parking and seating is extremely limited.

Tin Lizzy's Cantina also located in Grant Park adjacent to Ria's Bluebirds. This Mexican restaurant is full of charm and big portions. We shared a half order of the fried jalapenos appetizer. Luckily we ordered a half because there was more than enough in our cute little tin bucket. My co-workers each ordered the nachos. A single order of nachos should really be shared by two people. I went with the buffalo chicken and black bean quesadillas. O.M.G!!!!!!! It was fantastic. This will be a definite after hours return visit for me as I would love to sample a tasty adult beverage with my meal next time.

Pure located in the Inman Park neighborhood of Atlanta is becoming a favorite of mine. I've visited twice in the past few months. This place really reminds me of my favorite bar in Chicago, The Bar Celano. They have garage doors instead of walls that can be raised for an alfresco dining experience. So far I haven't had a chance to visit at night to see if they actually lift the doors. The chips are fresh and amazing as well is the quesadilla. Instead of grilling, the quesadillas are deep fried for gooey goodness. The portion is huge and there is no way I can or should finish my entire meal.

Highland Bakery also located in Inman Park has become a fast favorite. So far we have had three visits and counting. Be prepared for wait. I've only been for a weekday lunch and can imagine what the wait will be for a weekend brunch. No matter what the wait time is it will be definitely worth it. My first visit I tried the white chicken chili and grilled cheese on rosemary garlic bread. It did not disappoint. The last two times, I've had their shrimp and grits. Although, I really like the shrimp and grits my favorite part of the meal is the grilled jalapeno focacciaRe. I certainly plan to keep this on the list and can't wait to take my sister there. She will love it