Joe Duffy

Atlanta Grubber, your Caucasian Asian, has a new tie for favorite Asian restaurant in Metro Atlanta... and it might just be my favorite restaurant of any kind. 🍜
The newest X’IAN Gourmet House is now open in Johns Creek on Medlock Bridge Road, making one of Atlanta’s best Chinese spots even more convenient.
My must-orders:
🥢 Cumin Lamb Biang Biang Noodles
🥢 Pork Biang Biang Noodles
🥟 Lamb Dumplings
Don’t expect fine dining—it’s casual kiosk ordering. Do expect food that’s earned a loyal following long before the awards and recognition rolled in.
Have you been to the new Johns Creek location yet? What’s your go-to order?
📍10820 Abbotts Bridge Rd.
Johns Creek, GA (H Mart Shopping Center)
#AtlantaGrubber #XianGourmetHouse #JohnsCreek #JohnsCreekEats #MedlockBridge HMart ChineseFood BiangBiangNoodles LambDumplings AtlantaFood AtlantaFoodie ATLFoodie MetroAtlantaEats Foodstagram InstaFood AsianFood EatLocal RestaurantReview GeorgiaEats FoodReels Less

🇳🇿 NEW LOVE OF MY LIFE: NEW ZEALAND FOOD!
Heaps Pies has quickly become one of my favorite discoveries in metro Atlanta.
The fish and chips may be my new #1. The biggest difference from the English version is the lighter, thinner, almost tempura-like coating, making it noticeably less greasy. The chips stay true to the British style, and the haddock was outstanding.
The steak and mushroom pie and sausage roll were just as impressive. Both had beautifully flaky crusts that tasted homemade, with rich meat filling and gravy that complemented rather than overwhelmed. The sausage roll is nothing like the American “pigs in a blanket” or Texas kolaches—it’s classic New Zealand style with seasoned minced sausage wrapped in pastry.
Heaps Pies has earned a spot among the very best Grubberies in metro Atlanta.
Have you been? What’s your favorite thing to order?
#AtlantaGrubber #HeapsPies #NewZealandFood #KiwiFood FishAndChips MeatPie SausageRoll AtlantaEats AtlantaFoodie AtlantaRestaurants DecaturGA AvondaleEstates DeKalbCounty HiddenGem FoodReview SupportLocal EatLocal ComfortFood Haddock MetroAtlanta Less

Discover the Delight of Sushi Mito in Peachtree Corners

Have you been on the hunt for a truly exceptional dining experience in Peachtree Corners? Look no further than @sushi_mito a beloved choice for three generations of my family. Located conveniently near Spalding and Holcomb Bridge Road, Sushi Mito has something for everyone, making it a must-visit for any sushi enthusiast or Japanese cuisine lover.

Why Sushi Mito Might Be Your Next Family Favorite
At Sushi Mito, there's a dish to please every palate. While my daughter has crowned it her favorite restaurant, my mom, who's been broadening her culinary horizons, has also found a favorite in their mixed tempura—shrimp and vegetables. For me, it's my second favorite sushi spot within a 10-mile radius, only slightly edged out by Lily Sushi, but when it comes to Japanese fare, it tops the list.

A Menu to Explore and Enjoy
What makes Sushi Mito stand out? Their bluefin specialties sourced from Toyosu Market in Japan are simply sensational. Just thinking about the toro nigiri and gunkan is enough to make my mouth water, though it's a bit of a splurge! Have you ever treated yourself to their chef's choice sushi or sashimi platters? They're a reliable choice for an unforgettable meal.

For those who might not be as keen on sushi, fear not! The non-sushi items are just as satisfying. My wife opts for the teriyaki chicken, ensuring there's something for everyone to enjoy.

Join the Conversation
Have you visited Sushi Mito yet? What was your favorite dish?

Sushi Mito is a culinary gem that invites frequent visits. Whether you're a Peachtree Corners local or just passing through, make sure to check it out! I have rushed back.

#SushiMito #PeachtreeCorners #AtlantaEats #FamilyFavorites #JapaneseCuisine Less

Discovering Breakfast and Dinner Delights at Vila Crepe & Café in West Roswell
If you're on the hunt for breakfast options in Rosstock, @vilacrepecafe in west Roswell is a spot to consider. I recently enjoyed two solid breakfasts there, and I must say, their signature Dubai chocolate crepe is very good. While I have a leaning toward other local spots like Savory Gourmet, Gracious Plenty, and A&M Kitchen, Vila Crepe & Café still holds its own as a viable breakfast contender and all mentioned places have different menus that complement more than compete. Have you tried any of these places? Which is your favorite?

A Dinner Debut That Impressed
Vila Crepe & Café also offers dinner twice a week, and my first experience was positive. The creamy cognac shrimp appetizer, with its standout sauce, was delightful. My pork chop was perfectly cooked—seared to perfection. It's worth noting that the chef sources his ingredients from a local high-end butcher shop, ensuring quality. The mashed potatoes? Some of the best I've had in a while. Have you visited for dinner yet? What dishes would you recommend?

The dinner is the clear star here and they should expect a big boost in business immediately.

Final Verdict
Overall, Vila Crepe & Café is a place worth keeping on your radar. Whether it's breakfast or dinner, there's something for everyone. The chef/partner's background from Little Alley certainly adds to the culinary experience. Thinking of trying one of their lunch sandwiches next—any recommendations?

See my Facebook group for another independent review of this place

Join the conversation and share your experiences with Vila Crepe & Café in the comments below. #AtlantaEats #RoswellDining #BreakfastLovers #DinnerDelights Less

Discovering the Best Fish 'n' Chips at Heaps Pies in Decatur
If you're a fan of fish 'n' chips, there's a new spot in town that might just become your favorite: @heapsatl, located in Decatur, possibly Avondale Estates. Known for their New Zealand-style fish 'n' chips, they’re only available Friday through Sunday, so plan your visit accordingly.

A Taste of New Zealand
What sets Heaps Pies apart from the traditional British variety is the coating on the fish. The haddock is enveloped in a batter that resembles tempura—light and less greasy, offering a refreshing twist. The British chips could have been hotter but were very good. Heaps Pies stands out, edging out Washington’s Wharf, a formidable contender in Cumming, in terms of overall experience for said dish.

A Close Competition
While I’m declaring Heaps Pies my current favorite, it's a close call. Washington’s Wharf still holds the advantage with their chips, but when it comes to the fish, it's almost neck and neck but Heaps wins. The house remoulade at Heaps, with its hint of mustard, deserves special mention—it’s truly praiseworthy. The authentic New Zealand salt on top enhances the dish without overpowering it, earning my coveted “I’d rush back” distinction.

Exploring More Delights
Have you tried their New Zealand savory pies? If the fish 'n' chips are any indication, the pies must be delightful. I'm planning to grab a sausage roll on my next visit, and I’d love to hear your thoughts if you’ve tried them already. Are there any other must-try items on the menu?

Join the conversation and share your experiences! Let’s uncover more hidden gems in Atlanta together.
#HeapsPies #AtlantaEats #FishnChips #FoodieFinds #DecaturEats Less

JavaSagaAlpharetta #BestChickenSandwich #AtlantaEats

I’ve been a fan of the original @javasagacoffee/ on Buford Highway in Doraville for some time now, so imagine my excitement when I heard they were opening a second location closer to me, just off Windward Parkway on Jordan Court in Alpharetta. I visited the new spot recently, and I have to say, they’ve maintained the same high quality as the BuHi location.

The ABC sandwich is just as delicious as ever, and the new Alpharetta location offers more seating, which is a huge plus. It’s still in its soft opening phase, with hours from 11 AM to 3 PM. However, be prepared for potential delays as they sold out of chicken before 1 PM. Fortunately, the staff was proactive, and a new batch was just a few minutes away, so waiting was worth it.

Word has certainly spread about this spot, and the crowd seemed to thin out by 2 PM. Even if I’m not significantly closer to the new location, the added seating makes it a compelling choice. For anyone debating between the two, you won’t be disappointed with the Alpharetta spot.

In my opinion, this is the best chicken sandwich in metro Atlanta, and it might just be the best sandwich, period. If you haven’t tried it yet, I highly recommend making the trip. Hands down, it’s a winner! Less

Discovering Tre Fratelli: A New Italian Gem in Alpharetta

The Atlanta Grubber community, have you heard about the new kid on the block? @trefratellialpharetta a fresh Italian restaurant in downtown Alpharetta, is making waves as it fills the shoes of the former Butcher & Brew. For those nostalgic about the spot's previous identities, including the brief Academy Bar (did not get that place at all), Tre Fratelli is much better than both.

Mrs. Grubber’s Take
Curious about Mrs. Grubber’s verdict? She gave the Caesar salad a whirl and found it a tad salty but otherwise gave it a thumbs up. But let's be real, that's a regular critique from her—much like my own desire for more protein in my sandwiches. However, the chicken parmesan was a standout for her. While it hasn't dethroned her all-time favorite from Il Giallo, it certainly ranks high on her list, and trust me, she's sampled plenty!

My Culinary Adventure
As for me, the foodie in search of the perfect dish, I was pulled by a recent NextDoor thread about chicken marsala and hence got a craving for such. Chef David Soon boasts that their pasta comes from "one of the top two suppliers in Italy." With such credentials, it was no surprise that the dish was exceptional. If you're on the hunt for top-tier chicken marsala, this is your go-to spot.

Starting my meal with arancini filled with mozzarella and short rib was a true delight. The taste was a memorable highlight, and it's been a while since I've had arancini that good. Note on the pic, oy already two removed from the plate by the time photo was taken,

Is It "Real" Italian?
Now, some might debate whether Tre Fratelli is "authentic" Italian, or more of a Brooklyn or Italian-American fusion. But let's focus on what's important—it’s undeniably delicious!

What are your thoughts, fellow food enthusiasts? Have you tried Tre Fratelli yet? Share your experiences and let’s chat about your favorite dishes there!

#AlpharettaEats #TreFratelli #ItalianCuisine #AtlantaGrubber #FoodieFinds #ChickenParm #AranciniLover Less

Discovering a Hidden Gem in Calhoun: Christian and Jake’s Bistro

A Foodie’s Journey for Chicken Salad
Of course I’m out of my mind. That’s well documented here. I will travel long distances for world-class barbecue, pizza, and cheesesteaks when I’m visiting my old stomping grounds. But chicken salad sandwiches? Not usually top of my list. However, when a fellow food enthusiast gives a recommendation unprecedented for said item, you have to listen. My adventure led me to @christian_jakes_bistro in Calhoun, Georgia.

The Perfect Pairing: C&J's Bistro and Buc-ee’s
The Duffy family doesn’t venture out just for a sandwich. We love Buc-ee’s, and our travels take us through both the Calhoun and Warner Robins locations at least once a year. When the opportunity to combine a @bucees visit with a trip to Christian and Jake’s arose, we made our first out of the way trip to Buc-ee’s and more.

A Chicken Salad Worth the Drive
Christian and Jake’s chicken salad is traditional—finely ground with no nuts or fruits, served on a delicious French roll. The portion size was generous, and the quality could rival any offering in metro Atlanta. If this bistro were closer, it would certainly be my go-to spot for chicken salad.

A Busy Bistro with Loyal Followers
Even on a Monday at 2 PM, the place was bustling, a testament to its popularity. For my next visit, I might try the salad trio. I’m a fan of ham salad, which is not always easy to find, so it was great to see it on the menu. My mom, who wasn’t particularly hungry, enjoyed her side of potato salad, while my wife and daughter indulged in chicken salad—my wife on a Caesar salad and @abbyduffy1 got hers on a croissant.

Why Make the Trip?
If you’re a fan of Buc-ee’s and looking to add a little extra to your trip, Christian and Jake’s Bistro is the perfect stop. It’s just one exit north and .6 miles west of Buc-ee’s, making it a convenient and tasty road food option. Open weekdays from 11 AM to 3 PM, it’s a must-visit for anyone passing through. So, next time the family craves a Buc-ee’s fix, this 2-for-1 bonus is a great reason to say, “Why not?”

#FoodieAdventure #ChickenSaladLove #BuceesBonus Less

Review of La Gondola Pizzeria in Ramsey, NJ

Hey Atlanta Grubber fam! Just got back from a trip to New York State for a bat mitzvah, where we were extremely well-fed. But you know how it is—when in the area, you’ve gotta explore the local food scene. So, Mrs. Grub and I took a day trip to NYC and, of course, hit up a nearby pizza shop on the Jersey side, not far from the state line.

Now, everyone knows the rules: New Jersey is a top contender for the country's best pizza. As a South Jersey native, I’ve had my fair share of great pies in the Phillyburbs. We’ve had a few in North Jersey, the Big Apple suburbs including the renowned Kinchley’s Tavern, not far from where we were staying. Since that was already checkmarked a few times, this time, we decided to try @lagondolapizzeriaramsey in Ramsey, NJ—a top-rated spot I hadn’t been to before.

Despite it being our third meal of the day (the first two in Manhattan, mind you as reviewed previous!), we couldn't pass up the chance to try this place. Their "#1 rated pie" was the bruschetta, and Mrs. Grub was all in for it. She absolutely loved the roasted garlic, and I was impressed by the fresh tomatoes, which seemed to be added right after baking. Trust me, it was a tough act to follow after John’s of Bleecker earlier that day, but La Gondola held its own and came highly recommended.

While most of my NJ pizza favorites have been visited by @stoolpresidente, it seems La Gondola might have slipped under his radar, though my search may have missed it. It might not hit a 9.3 like John’s, but he’d be missing out if he didn’t give this spot a very good rating.

#PizzaLovers #NewJerseyEats #LaGondolaPizzeria #FoodAdventure #PizzaReview #AtlantaGrubber #RamseyNJ #NorthJerseyPizza Less

Discovering Chinatown's Culinary Gems: A Taste Adventure
I found myself in an enviable situation, following up what many consider the top pizza place in Manhattan with a visit to Chinatown’s consensus favorite—arguably. My stop at Uncle Lou's was a culinary delight.

A Sizzling Experience with Scallops
The scallops in black pepper sauce were served on a sizzling plate, and they were a true highlight. The scallops themselves were of high quality, but it was the world-class black pepper sauce that truly elevated the dish. It was flavorful without being overpowering. Have you ever tried a dish that perfectly balances bold flavors?

Wontons with a Twist
The wontons in chili oil at @unclelouny had more of a resemblance to shumai dumplings as compared to some of my favorites in Johns Creek, which are like smaller dumplings.

Comparing Chinatowns: A Broader Perspective
This wasn't my first rodeo in NYC's Chinatown; I've also explored the vibrant Chinatowns of San Francisco and Philadelphia. So, when New Yorkers boast about their unrivaled food scene, it's crucial to remind them that great Chinese food isn't exclusive to their city. Have you visited Duluth, Johns Creek, or BuHi? These spots offer incredible Chinese cuisine that deserve attention.

A Call to Explore
This isn’t to say the top 5 on a tiny stretch of Medlock Bridge would compete with the Chinatown of the one of the biggest cities in the world and most populated of US. They might not all make a top 5 list on Manhattan, but they certainly stand strong on their own. Isn't it time to stop pretending these places don't exist and start exploring them?

Ready to dive into more of what Chinatown has to offer? I'm eager to return and continue this delicious journey. What about you? Share your favorite Chinatown experiences or local finds in the comments!

#FoodAdventure #ChinatownEats #ExploreLocal #CulinaryJourney #AtlantaGrubber Less