Joe Duffy

Discovering the Iconic John's of Bleecker Street in Manhattan

When it comes to pizza in Manhattan, one name often rises to the top: @Johnsofbleeckerstreet. What’s the one pizza place in Manhattan to eat? Asking food advisors like Adam Hyzdu, relying on AI recommendations from ChatGPT, or following the enthusiastic endorsement by @stoolpresidente, known for his no-nonsense pizza reviews, John's is frequently hailed as a must-visit destination. So naturally, Mrs. Grubber and I decided to see if it lived up to the hype.

The Pizza Experience
The experience did not disappoint. The pizza at John's is among the best I've ever tasted, with each component—crust, cheese, and sauce—coming together in perfect harmony. While I may not prioritize the way a slice folds, John's manages to excel even there. The crust was thin yet delightfully charred, or "undercarriage" as Portnoy would say, and it still folded flawlessly. The plain pie was simply superb, earning my enthusiastic "I'd rush back" approval.

What’s Next?
Intriguingly, my friend Joey D, who knows his pizza having grown up with it, insists that I must try their calzone next time. Will it live up to the high standards set by their pizza? Only a future trip will tell, and with so many culinary adventures awaiting in NYC, it’s a matter of when—not if—I return.

Have you been to John's of Bleecker Street? What’s your take on their pizza? And if you've tried the calzone, is it as legendary as the pizza? Let's get the conversation rolling!

Join the Discussion
Have you visited John's of Bleecker Street? Share your experience!
What's your go-to pizza spot in Manhattan?

Any recommendations for my next NYC culinary adventure?

#JohnsOfBleeckerStreet #PizzaLovers #NYCEats #FoodieAdventures #ManhattanPizza
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Celebrating Branchwater's Smooth Transition Under New Ownership

🌟 Exciting news for foodies! @branchwater.vickery in Cumming has seamlessly transitioned to new ownership under the talented Katy Curkendall. The long-time GM wisely kept the winning formula intact while introducing delightful new dishes!

🍽️ One standout is the house-smoked salmon, a delightful addition that wasn't on the menu under the previous owner, Todd Hogan as least as far as I recall. Served with spicy tarragon aioli and warm pita, it's a must-try appetizer that's quickly becoming a favorite.

🥨 And for those who love a classic, the beer pretzel remains a star, now even more indulgent with a buttery twist. The decadent mustard bacon horseradish sour cream elevates this pretzel and dip combo to unrivaled heights.

🥩 For weekend indulgence, the prime rib is a treat, cooked to perfection with just the right amount of flavor-packed fat. Seafood lovers, rejoice! The menu now boasts more seafood options than before.

🌊 Forsyth County continues to shine with one of the best American staple restaurants around. Todd Hogan's legacy of perfection is still felt, but Branchwater under Katy Curkendall is writing its own delicious chapter.

📍 Visit Branchwater and savor the incredible flavors that are winning hearts and taste buds!

❤️ #BranchwaterCumming #FoodieFavorites #NewBeginnings Less

Discovering It’s Different Barbecue Company in Buford

When discussing Atlanta's vibrant barbecue scene, @itsdifferentbbq in Buford deserves a spot in the conversation. Nestled near the Sugar Hill border, this eatery offers a small cozy inside seating area, perfect for a laid-back meal.

A Feast for Barbecue Lovers
During my visit, I savored the brisket, pork spareribs, and pulled pork. Paired with classic sides like mac n cheese and potato salad, the meal was a very positive experience. While the pork stood out as my personal favorite, the overall experience at It’s Different Barbecue Company received my full approval.

Setting Realistic Expectations
It's important to set realistic expectations. While I didn’t find an item that catapults to the top of my metro BBQ list, this place remains a must-visit for all barbecue enthusiasts. It's a destination that may not leapfrog the long-time favorites but certainly earns a rightful place in the BBQ dialogue across all directions of Atlanta.

Engaging the BBQ Community
As Atlanta's food scene continues to evolve, should Eater Atlanta or Atlanta Eats draft a barbecue map, It’s Different Barbecue Company should undoubtedly be included. What are your thoughts on the top barbecue spots around Atlanta? Have you visited It’s Different Barbecue Company? Share your experiences, and let’s keep this flavorful conversation going!

#BBQ #AtlantaEats #BufordBBQ #FoodieAdventure #BBQLovers Less

Discovering Banh Mi 135: A Must-Visit Spot in Duluth
If you're a fan of Vietnamese sandwiches and crave that perfect bite, @banh_mi_135 in Duluth is a culinary gem you won't want to miss. Nestled in the same shopping center as the well-loved City Farmers Market on Pleasant Hill Road, this spot offers a delicious escape from the usual chain eateries that dot the area.

Why Banh Mi 135 Stands Out
Have you ever tried a banh mi that left you thinking about it long after the last bite? That's precisely what you'll experience here. Known for their classic banh mi with pork ham, head cheese, steamed pork, pâté, and butter, Banh Mi 135 crafts each sandwich with an attention to detail that's hard to find. I believe they bake their own baguette bread, adding an authentic touch that elevates their sandwiches to another level.

Top Picks from the Menu
While the classic banh mi steals the show, don't overlook their shredded chicken option. It's a strong contender in the ever-popular chicken sandwich debate. Whether you're a sandwich aficionado or just love a good meal, this place deserves a spot on your list of must-tries in Greater Atlanta.

A New Favorite Tagline
I've often been skeptical about hyped places, but Banh Mi 135 has earned my new, coveted tagline: “I’d definitely rush back.” It’s a unique experience where the flavors and quality truly live up to the buzz, making it a standout choice when you're exploring the vibrant Asian culinary scene along Pleasant Hill Road.

Have you visited Banh Mi 135 or have other favorites in the area? Share your thoughts and let's keep the food conversation going!

#BanhMi135 #DuluthEats #AtlantaFoodies #BanhMiLovers #FoodieFavorites #RushBackEats. Less

Dining Delight at Il Giallo in Sandy Springs
It’s been a while since I shared my thoughts on @gialloatl a beloved Italian gem in Sandy Springs. Nestled just outside the Perimeter, this spot is much like another favorite of mine, Minhwa Spirits. My wife, Mrs. Grubber, has a shortlist of go-to places for special occasions, including Bask Steakhouse and Il Giallo. While we haven't visited Branchwater since Todd Hogan's departure, Il Giallo remains a staple for us.

Special Occasions Without the Chaos
While Il Giallo does get busy for the annual Hallmark Day dinner, it avoids the chaos you might find during Mother’s Day brunch, New Year’s Eve, or Valentine’s Day. Perhaps it’s because we opt for a late Sunday dinner, making it a perfect annual Mother’s Day tradition.

A Menu to Savor
Mrs. Grubber is all about the chicken parmesan and Caesar salad, making this her top spot for such delights. As a sandwich enthusiast, I’d the pre-meal bread, but at least sample them all I can’t resist Chef Jamie Adams' house-made focaccia. It’s really quite outstanding and rivals my wife's any we had in her love for bread service.

This time around, I indulged in the veal chop parmesan. I must say, it surpasses even the excellent version at Trattoria 1*41. And let’s not forget the meatballs—a delightful mix of duck, turkey, and beef, now enhanced with mushrooms and onions. While I enjoy the new style, I have to admit that the Italian gravy version was also a winner.

Seafood and Beyond
The frutti di mare is potentially my favorite entrée, rivaling even Savory Gourmet’s catering menu version. With its distinctive squid ink spaghetti, it offers a unique twist that stands out.

Exploring the menu has been a culinary adventure. From their pizza, which once had a speakeasy vibe with G’s Pizza, to other classic dishes, Il Giallo is a place where you simply can’t go wrong. My wife has impeccable taste in both husbands and Italian restaurants.

What’s your go-to dish at Il Giallo? Have you tried the veal chop parmesan or the frutti di mare? Share your thoughts and let’s keep the conversation going!

#DiningInAtlanta #IlGiallo #SandySpringsEats #ItalianCuisine #FoodieFavorites Less

Discovering Minhwa Spirits: A Must-Visit Spot in Doraville

For those of you on the hunt for culinary delights in the Atlanta area, @minhwaspirits in Doraville is a gem that deserves a spot in your regular rotation. Nestled just barely outside the Perimeter, this spot offers a unique blend of country charm within the city limits.

A Chicken Sandwich Sensation
The highlight of my visit was undoubtedly the KFC crispy thigh sandwich. Paired perfectly with house-made pickles and a spicy mayo, this sandwich has claimed its rightful place in my personal "Fab 4" chicken sandwiches list. If you're a fan of a good chicken sandwich, this is an experience you can't miss.

The Fab 4 Line-up
For those curious about the other contenders in my top chicken sandwich list, they include:
Java Saga in Chamblee
No Idea Burger in Norcross
Karachi Broast in Roswell

To Fry or Not to Fry?
While the fries at Minwah Spirits are fine, I found myself leaning towards skipping them on my next visit in favor of exploring more from their a la carte menu. There’s something about keeping room for more adventurous choices that speaks to my foodie heart.

What’s Next on the Menu?
With so many options to explore at Minhwa Spirits, I'm curious: what do you recommend trying next? Whether it's a hidden gem or a crowd favorite, let me know your suggestions!

Join the conversation on our Atlanta Grubber group and share your thoughts. Let's uncover the best of what Minhwa Spirits and other local spots have to offer! #MinwahSpirits #AtlantaEats #FoodiesUnite #ChickenSandwichLovers #DoravilleDining Less

{S}table in Dunwoody: DASH Hospitality does it again

Big fans of #Funwoody and David Abes, so expectations were high for @stabledunwoody Verdict: It delivers.

What we ate:
• Southern Lazy Susan: Get this. Smoked duck steals the show. The pimento cheese + Vidalia onion dips are smooth, silky, refined — a nice break from the usual chunky stuff. Local Gouda? Holds its own.
• Twin Roasted Quail: 90s throwback done right. Juicy, generous portion, and that cornbread dressing is smooth as butter.
• Fried Yardbird: Table & Main is still king, but {S}table’s boneless breast might be the best in that category in town. Zero dryness.
• Salmon: Mom-approved. Simple, clean, well-executed.

The take: Polished, consistent, and a strong addition to downtown Dunwoody.
Real question: How does {S}table stack up to other area spots for you
#AtlantaEats #DunwoodyDining #Funwoody #DASHHospitality #SouthernFood #ATLFoodScene #PimentoCheese #FriedChicken #AtlantaRestaurants Less

Discover Crave Kitchen & Bistro: A Culinary Journey

Good first bite @cravekitchenatl. This Turkish/Mediterranean/Euro fusion-inspired eatery offers a delightful experience for those seeking something different.

A Flavorful Start
My adventure began with the hummus. Though I typically prefer the silkier Lebanese, Israeli, and Palestinian variations, the thicker, rustic version here was surprisingly enjoyable. Paired with house-made pita chips, it offered a distinct texture and flavor that some may prefer as a hearty side. What’s your favorite style of hummus?

Savor the Lamb Shish Kebab
The lamb shish kebab was a highlight of the meal. It was tender and seasoned just enough to enhance, not overshadow, the high-quality meat.

Insightful Service
Server, Annette, was personable and enthusiastic, sharing insights about the owner’s background. With several restaurants on military bases under his belt, his worldly culinary experiences have clearly influenced the menu.

Menu Updates
While exploring the menu, note that Crave Kitchen & Bistro’s offerings are evolving. Although pizza is still listed online, it's no longer available. Instead, look forward to fresh salmon and shrimp dishes coming soon. Pasta lovers hopefully will enjoy their house-made pesto, Italian, and Alfredo sauces. I plan on trying.

A Promising Experience
Overall, it was an impressive debut meal. I'm keen on exploring their Italian-inspired offerings next time. How about you? What would you try first at Crave Kitchen & Bistro?

Have you visited Crave Kitchen & Bistro? What was your experience like? Let's chat in the comments below.

#CraveKitchen #AtlantaEats #MediterraneanFusion #FoodieFinds #AtlantaGrubber Less

Discover Basuri: A New Indian Culinary Experience in Roswell

Renowned foodie Sean Palini has showered accolades on @basuriroswell, the latest Indian cuisine venture nestled in the Crabapple section of Roswell. Occupying the space once beloved by Peach & the Pork Chop, Basuri is already making waves. Owner Sheetal Thakur, who previously won hearts in Orlando with her restaurant El Vic, brings her expertise to Atlanta. El Vic, named after Thakur's daughters, was celebrated for its Indian fusion offerings, receiving high praise from Yelp and being lauded as “magnificent” by Orlando Magazine.

Authentic or Fusion? You Decide
Basuri's website emphasizes "authentic" Indian cuisine, but what does authentic truly mean? While I can't claim to be the ultimate judge of authenticity, I can share my experiences. For instance, the seafood bisque, spiced with green chilis, was a delightful surprise—though I mistakenly thought I detected saffron. The bisque was rich with shellfish, making it a fulfilling dish.

A Fusion of Flavors
Another standout was the rava pomfret, which delivered a delectable breading. Its flavors seemed to cater well to American palates. While others may debate its authenticity, I found it to be genuinely promising.

An Elevated Dining Atmosphere
Basuri offers a more refined dining experience compared to typical Indian restaurants. While its chandeliers may not match the grandeur of Yalda or Rumi’s, the ambiance certainly parallels that of the named high-end Persian eateries.

Is Basuri Worth the Splurge?
For those seeking affordable Indian cuisine, AFA in East Cobb remains a go-to for no-frills dining. Basuri, however, offers a night-out, date-worthy experience. I enjoyed my visit and left eager to return.

Have you tried Basuri? What are your thoughts on its blend of authenticity and fusion? Share your experiences and join the conversation!

#AtlantaGrubber #BasuriRoswell #IndianCuisine #FoodieFinds #RoswellEats Less

Review of Yava Kitchen and Brewhouse

First Impressions
Our debut visit to @yavaatl in Cumming, near Lake Lanier, was a mixed experience. Although we had a rocky start due to being seated at a less-than-ideal location—a cramped two-top by the restroom and a pole—the rest of the evening was promising.

Beverage Selection
We started off with an American IPA, which was better than average. I was a bit surprised that, given the substantial size of the restaurant and brewery, they only had four beers on offer. However, the quality of the IPA made up for the limited selection, hinting at a potential for future growth in their beer offerings.

Appetizers
The highlight of the evening was undoubtedly the chicken wings. They were overnight brined, blanched, and flash fried to crispy perfection. I opted for the Alabama barbecue sauce, which was both flavorful and satisfying. While Buffalo is known for its Buffalo sauce and Atlanta for its lemon pepper wings, this Alabama barbecue stood out as one of the best non-traditional flavors I've tried. They also offer a pecan habanero Buffalo style for those looking to experiment.

Main Courses

Club Sandwich
My adult son and I have been on a quest to find a new favorite club sandwich since Peach & the Pork Chop closed its doors. Yava Kitchen's version might just take the top spot, potentially even surpassing Brookwood Café. The sandwich features really good turkey and crispy applewood smoked bacon, with a creative twist—Granny Smith apples instead of traditional tomatoes. While I wouldn't mind a bit more aioli, it was a commendable sandwich overall.

Hearth Grilled Airline Chicken
Both Mrs. Grub and I liked her hearth grilled airline chicken breast served with mashed potatoes and gravy.

Conclusion
Overall, Yava Kitchen and Brewhouse provided a pleasant dining experience, despite the initial seating turnoff. The quality of the food and the potential in their beer offerings make it a spot worth revisiting. Less