Joe Duffy

Discovering Ephesus Turkish Kitchen: A Culinary Adventure in Alpharetta
If you’re seeking a delightful dive into Mediterranean, Persian, or Middle Eastern cuisine, @ephesusturkishkitchen on Windward Parkway is the place to explore. This location, previously home to World Famous Billy Allen's Brass Tap franchise and Velvet Elvis, now offers a unique taste of Turkish fare right in Alpharetta.

A Vegetarian's Delight
As a carnivore who loves vegetarian dishes from this region, I found the Bergama beet salad to be a standout. With its combination of cabbage, pickles, garlic, and olive oil, this salad offers a satisfying blend of flavors without being overly pickly. Have you ever tried beet salad before? What are your thoughts on its unique taste?

Bosnian Dumplings: A Cultural Experience
The Bosnian dumplings, featuring ground beef in a yogurt and tomato butter sauce, present a delightful experience. Notably, the dough is thicker than those found in other cuisines. And here's a tip: these dumplings are traditionally served warm rather than hot in the yogurt.

Lamb Saute: Simple Yet Satisfying
For those who appreciate classic flavors, the lamb sauté at Ephesus is a solid choice. It may be basic, but it delivers on taste and quality. For fellow food enthusiasts, how do you feel about the simplicity of traditional dishes?

A New Era for Turkish Cuisine in Atlanta
Reflecting on the past, there was a time when Turkish restaurants were a rarity in the metro area, limited to just two spots in Decatur and Marietta Square. Now, we’re fortunate to have several options nearby in AlphaRozCreek. This evolution reminds me of when John Kessler dubbed us “Bloomin’ Onion Acres,” a label we’ve certainly outgrown.

Join the conversation and share your experiences with Ephesus Turkish Kitchen. What are your favorite dishes from this culinary region?

#EphesusTurkishKitchen #MediterraneanCuisine #AlpharettaEats #FoodiesUnite #AtlantaGrubber #CulinaryAdventure #MiddleEasternFlavors Less

Like I’ve said, been getting to my native South Jersey a lot more in recent years, I hate wasting a meal and it’s all about South Jersey and Philly phood phirst and phoremost. For a guy living in GA, I’ve had my share of Best of South Jersey and Philly cheesesteaks and more. @ryandhowies is Reading Terminal quality.

Perhaps my fave South Jersey influencer @dinewithdom_ has been and I missed (if not, go), but no question ALL who love food indigenous to the Delaware Valley must go here. I’ve had close to a dozen sandwiches, including repeats of course, and their cheesesteak, roast pork, and chicken cheesesteaks belong on every list of Best of SJ/Philly. The old world and traditional Italian hoagies are excellent too.

I’ve only been to the original in Medford, but they opened another location in Glassboro. It’s a good time to be a Rowan student, I guess. It’s run, don’t walk worthy. Less

Review of Roux on Canton: An Objective Look
Nestled on the bustling Canton Street, Roux on Canton has been a spot I've heard about but never quite felt the urge to visit—until now. After finally dining there, my experience aligns with the mixed feedback I’d previously encountered. Here’s an objective review of my visit:

Culinary Highlights

Lemon Pepper Wings
Mrs. Grub’s choice, the lemon pepper wings, turned out to be a pleasant surprise. The wings, sourced from Springer Mountain, were requested extra crispy and did not disappoint. The dry rub added a flavorful punch, and the accompanying blue cheese dressing was notably better than average.

Gumbo and Fried Shrimp Po’boy
While I momentarily forgot its name, the most memorable aspect of the gumbo was indeed its gravy. As for the fried shrimp po’boy, it was just fine. However, it suffered from an excess of dressing, and the shrimp were slightly overcooked. Despite chicken being sourced from Springer Mountain, it left me wondering if the shrimp supplier was not quite Inland Seafood. My taste buds registered more of a politely muted approval than any strong disfavor.

Service and Atmosphere
Haley, our server, was a standout. She juggled duties at the bar and on the floor with impressive hustle and enthusiasm, enhancing the overall dining experience.

Conclusion
Roux on Canton offers a solid dining option but doesn’t top my list of favorites along Canton Street. It’s a decent spot to visit if you’re in the area, but perhaps not one to make a special trip for.

Overall, if you’re exploring Canton Street, Roux on Canton is worth a try, especially for their lemon pepper wings. But it’s important to manage expectations.

Hashtags
#RouxOnCanton #CantonStreetEats #AtlantaDining #FoodReview #AtlantaGrubber #ObjectiveReview Less

Unveiling a Burger Gem: No Idea in Norcross

Discovering the perfect burger can be an adventure, and @noidea_burger in Norcross is a destination worth exploring. Located on Indian Trail Road, this spot serves up a "very good" unloaded burger that’s both satisfying and budget-friendly. For just $11.50, you can indulge in a massive creation that's ready to challenge your appetite. My version came loaded with four patties, though two would be ample for most burger enthusiasts.

A Contender in Atlanta's Burger Scene
Metro Atlanta boasts an impressive array of burgers, making the competition fierce. While I can't place No Idea in my top five—Good Word still holds the title of Best in Gwinnett County—this should not dissuade you. When Eater curates a burger map or when Steak Shapiro’s Atlanta Eats highlights top burgers, No Idea deserves a spot in the conversation.

A Taste of Diversity
No Idea is proudly Asian-owned, and their menu reflects a delightful fusion of flavors. Their Korean fried chicken sandwiches are tempting, and I’m eager to try one... or maybe two!

Sides That Steal the Show
Don’t overlook the sides when you visit. The corn ribs, paired with cilantro ranch dressing, are a must-try. These grilled corn strips, still on the cob, are seasoned with spices and butter, creating a delicious complement to your burger experience.

Join the culinary conversation and share your thoughts after visiting No Idea. Even if we aren’t talking NFA, H&F, Chez Butter Jonez, this is still a must-visit for all burger hounds!

Hashtags: #AtlantaEats #BurgerLovers #NorcrossEats #KoreanFriedChicken #FoodieFinds #GwinnettCountyEats #CornRibs #AtlantaGrubber Less

Discovering the Best BBQ at Tropical Smokehouse in West Palm Beach
If you're a barbecue enthusiast exploring Florida's culinary scene, Tropical Smokehouse in West Palm Beach is a must-visit. Widely regarded as one of the state's premier BBQ spots, this restaurant is helmed by James Beard Best semifinalist chef Rick Mace. I love its distinctive Latin fusion twist, @tropical_smokehouse, which also just opened in Delray Beach, delivers a barbecue experience that's both authentic and innovative.

A Culinary Journey Through Smokehouse Delights
The prime brisket at Tropical Smokehouse is a nod to traditional Texas style, boasting a rich, smoky flavor. Opting for the fatty cut, I found it to be nothing short of excellent. The pork, infused with mojo sauce, offers a unique blend reminiscent of barbecue and lechon asada, providing a delightful and unique culinary experience.

Florida's Unique BBQ Offerings
What sets Tropical Smokehouse apart are the menu items that give a nod to Florida's diverse culinary landscape. In addition to the mojo sauce mentioned above, the brisket empanadas and smoked black beans are offerings not found in most BBQ joints. Regardless, these dishes highlight the restaurant's commitment to blending traditional barbecue with local influences.

A Highlight: The Pork Spareribs
While brisket and pork are typically my go-to choices, the pork spareribs at Tropical Smokehouse were perhaps the most memorable. They were softer and more tender than others I've tried, with a subtle seasoning that allowed the natural flavors of the meat to shine through.

A Long-Awaited Discovery
Having tasted highly-rated barbecue in several states, I can confidently say that Tropical Smokehouse is in the class with some of the best I've encountered. After nearly three decades of visiting family in Tampa and Boynton Beach, I've finally found a place in Florida that offers genuine, mouth-watering barbecue.

For those on a quest for remarkable BBQ in the Sunshine State, Tropical Smokehouse is a destination worth exploring.

Hashtags: #TropicalSmokehouse #WestPalmBeachBBQ #FloridaEats #BBQLovers #LatinFusionBBQ #ChefRickMace #BBQJourney #FloridaFoodie Less

Discovering Garlik Grill: New Hidden Gem in Johns Creek

I recently stumbled upon @garlik_grill, nestled in the Rivermont shopping center on Holcomb Bridge Road, thanks to some buzz on my favorite local entertainment site, Nextdoor. As a longtime fan of @samadgrill in Sandy Springs, I was intrigued when I realized that Garlik Grill is a delightful spin-off of the beloved Samad, from Jamal and the charming @lesanna3

Back in the day, when my son attended North Springs Charter High School, I frequently visited Samad Mediterranean. It quickly became my go-to spot for its authentic flavors and welcoming atmosphere. Fast forward to today, and while I haven’t been a regular at Samad for a while, my recent visit to Garlik Grill brought back fond memories.

The menu at Garlik Grill features some familiar offerings, and I couldn’t resist trying the lamb soup, gyro off the spit, and fries with their signature garlic sauce. The quality was excellent, rivaling its sister restaurant in Sandy Springs. If you’re a garlic lover like Mrs. Grubber, the sauce is an absolute must-try!

For those in search of a taste of the Mediterranean right here on the tip Johns Creek that’s essentially East Roswell, Garlik Grill is definitely worth a visit. They’ve managed to capture the essence of what made Samad a favorite.
Have you been to Garlik Grill yet? Share your thoughts below!

#JohnsCreekEats #GarlikGrill #MediterraneanFlavors #AtlantaFoodies #FoodReview #NextdoorFinds Less

Fair and Balanced Take on 1920 Tavern in Roswell

Returning to @1920_tavern on Canton Street was a bit of a journey for us after a past incident with a waitress named Kat, who fallaciously and rather rudely accused my wife of ordering a seafood dish she would never touch. However, our love for the food outweighed that experience, and we decided to give it another shot, albeit with a long delay between visits. Time heals the wounds that no one can see.

Culinary Highlights
Despite the major waitstaff hiccup, the food at 1920 Tavern never fails to impress. The seafood gumbo, with its rich flavors and the excellent addition of ground grits, was a standout. If you're a fan of creamy dishes, the shrimp and lobster ravioli is a must-try—it's indulgent and satisfying. Although I didn't personally try the shrimp and grits, I'm betting it's just as good given the quality of this similar dish.

Southern Comfort
We also sampled some of Mrs. Grubber’s fried chicken, which was uniquely prepared—pounded in bone and topped with white Southern gravy. It was a delightful twist on a classic dish. My wife opted for the tavern salad over the Caesar, and we both agreed that the "secret" housemade vinaigrette was exceptional—truly some of the best dressing we've tasted.

Overall Impressions
While I can't recall every dish we've tried in the past, each visit has left us satisfied—food wise. 1920 Tavern does very well in delivering American staples with a slight Cajun influence. Most of the time, the service has been commendable, adding to the overall enjoyable dining experience.

Have you been to 1920 Tavern? Share your thoughts! Would love to hear about your favorite dishes and experiences.

#AtlantaEats #FoodReview #1920Tavern #SouthernCuisine #SeafoodLover #GoodEats #HonestReview #AtlantaFoodies #CajunFlavors #DiningOut Less

Review: Eddie V's in Alpharetta
Overview
Eddie V's, recently opened on Hayne Bridge in Alpharetta, presents itself as a contender in the high-end seafood and steak category. However, when comparing price and quality, there are superior alternatives available in the area.

Highlights

Mashed Potatoes
One standout dish was the mashed potatoes, which were expertly prepared and received high praise.

Lump Crab Cakes
The lump crab cakes offered a unique twist with most of the filling positioned outside, allowing for a crispy texture. While enjoyable, this dish doesn't quite match the excellence found at Brooklyn Café or Bask.

Comparative Analysis
When considering value, Eddie V's is slightly less expensive than upscale spots like Bask, Hal's, and Kaiser's. However, this comes with a compromise in quality. For a place that cheaper or about the same option, Message in Bottle surpasses Eddie V's in terms of overall dining experience.

Mrs. Grubber's Experience
Mrs. Grubber opted for the filet and complemented it with a Caesar salad. Both were well-received, with the salad's citrusy dressing offering a refreshing and distinctive flavor.

Conclusion
In conclusion, Eddie V's provides a decent experience but falls short when compared to some of Atlanta's other high-end dining establishments. If you're in the area, it might be worth a visit, but for exceptional quality, other venues may be more satisfying. Less

Discovering Tipsy Thaiger: A Culinary Gem in Roswell

I finally made it to @tipsythaiger, nestled in the scenic Roswell Mill, just a stone's throw from Proper Hop. My anticipation was high, having experienced their impressive pop-up over a year ago at aforesaid Proper Hop.

Savory Delights
The Northern Laab Beef Tartare was a standout dish. The shaved beef, infused with a tantalizing mix of spices, was perfectly complemented by the crunchy heirloom tomato. This dish offered a delightful balance of flavors and textures that I won’t soon forget.

Signature Dish with a Twist
Under the guidance of superstar server Cecilia, who brings her experience from many of Roswell's top restaurants, I tried the She-Crab Fried Rice. This signature dish delivered an exceptional flavor profile with its blend of crab meat, crab fat, and salt-cured duck yolk. The Jasmine rice was fluffier than what traditional fried rice aficionados might expect, but it was a delicious twist that worked beautifully.

Delightful Drinks
Cecilia also recommended the Mango and Sticky Rice drink, featuring white rum and topped with salted coconut foam. The foam’s richness reminded me of the smooth texture of a White Russian, making it deceptively easy to enjoy. It's a must-try for those who appreciate a well-crafted cocktail. For those who prefer brown liquor, fear not—they have a well-stocked bar with a charming atmosphere perfect for a date night.

A Unique Thai Experience
For those who love Thai cuisine, be prepared for a menu that's smaller but filled with unique offerings you might not find at your usual spot. It's an experience worth exploring.

Final Thoughts
Tipsy Thaiger truly lives up to its name, offering tempting drinks and an inviting atmosphere. My advice? Consider getting an Uber, indulge in a few cocktails, and perhaps explore Patrick’s new lounge next door with its new whiskey collection to go with an impressive beer list afterward. Let's support this gem Tipsy (and PH too)—it's a place worth keeping in our vibrant culinary scene.

Hashtags: #TipsyThaiger #RoswellEats #FoodieFinds #ThaiCuisine #AtlantaEats #CulinaryAdventure #RestaurantReview #DateNightSpots Less

Review of Fat Lady Bakery in East Cobb, Marietta

Visited the humbly-located Fat Lady Bakery located on Johnson Ferry Road in East Cobb, Marietta, and here’s my take on the experience.

Limited Selection, Unforgettable Flavors
We were met with a sparse selection, we were told by @nancyfatladybaker due to staffing and supply issues, but what we tried was definitely memorable. If you’re on the hunt for sourdough bread recommendations, Fat Lady Bakery is the place to go. Their sourdough is a standout and pairs perfectly with their delicious pimento cheese, which has a subtle jalapeño kick. The dark meat chicken salad, with its delightful combination of walnuts and grapes, was another treat. Fat Lady has a light hand with mayo, but I added a slather to my sourdough bread and it made a good sandwich.

Suggestions for the Busy Crowd
I couldn’t help but wish for a menu catered to the busy work crowd, perhaps with more ready-to-go sandwich options. It’s possible they offer this when fully stocked, but the current menu didn’t make it clear.

More Tastes to Explore
The ground beef enchiladas were another highlight. I suspect the flour tortillas are made in-house, adding an authentic Texas-Mex touch to the dish with cheddar and pepper Jack cheeses layered beautifully. As for the sweets, the chocolate croissants and chocolate chip cookies were good, though not exceptional.

Looking Forward
I’m eager to return when they’re fully stocked to explore more offerings. Mrs. Grub was particularly hoping to try the chicken pot pie and pretzels, which hopefully will be available next time.

Final Thoughts
Fat Lady Bakery has the potential to be a grab-and-go favorite, and I look forward to seeing how my tour of the menu evolves. If you’re in the area, give them a try for some unique flavors and local charm.

#FatLadyBakery #EastCobbEats #SourdoughLove #LocalFlavors #HiddenGemsATL #BakeryFinds Less