Joe Duffy

Discovering Dominic’s New York Pizza at Cumming City Center

Atlanta Grubbers, if you're looking for a better-than-average pizza experience with other options to boot, Dominic’s New York Pizza is worth a visit. Despite the name, this isn’t the New York style you might expect but rather a delightful Neapolitan. Originating from a humble food truck, Dominic’s has now found a more permanent home in Ball Ground and the latest at Cumming City Center, cooking up laudable offerings inside (though trailer kitchen is adjacent to) Crooked Culture Brewing.

Tasting the Menu
I ventured to try something beyond the usual pizza. The wood-fired gyro intrigued me, and while it was a substantial portion, the tzatziki sauce could have packed more of a punch. The pita was notably good, though. Dominic’s cheddar and jalapeño sausage stood out with its spicy kick, not as great as my BBQ faves, but with more kick. I wouldn’t be surprised if it’s sourced from their Ball Ground neighbors Frankfurt Doner, where I’m a big fan of the namesake item as well as their house made sausages.

A Brewing Delight
Nestled inside one of metro Atlanta’s lesser-known but noteworthy breweries, the setting adds to the charm. While Dominic’s may not be a "drop everything and go" spot, there’s a reason for our repeat visits over the years at their other location and food truck, which I don’t think they do anymore. It appears it’s what they cook out of in Cumming. Their pizza has consistently been a hit, and Mrs. Grub enjoyed her pepperoni pizza.

Worth the Trip
Cumming City Center is steadily becoming a must-visit destination. With Dominic’s being located inside of the underrated Crooked Culture, it’s a spot I’ll return to for a burger or a meatball sandwich next time. Kudos to Cumming City Center for continuing to elevate the local dining scene.

#AtlantaEats #Pizzalovers #CummingCityCenter #NeapolitanPizza #FoodieAdventures #CrookedCultureBrewing Less

Suite 200 in Crabapple: Potential, But, But…

Our recent visit to @suite200grille in Crabapple was much like our first visit: some good, some swings and misses. Having previously dined here, we were intrigued by the owner, Anthony's decision to incorporate Italian influences into the menu, inspired by their successful restaurant in Blue Ridge.

Appetizers & Entrees
We started with the cheesesteak egg rolls. The presentation was inviting with cheese sprinkled on top. The egg rolls were crispy, meaty, and flavorful. It was the fave item in two trips here. However, they could have been served hotter for that perfect bite.
For the main course, my wife chose here standards Caesar salad and chicken parmesan, while I opted for the chicken piccata. The quality of the ingredients are there; the pasta was notably good, and the freshly grated cheese added a delightful touch. While they didn’t blow our minds, they delivered pretty good taste, making them a reliable choice for locals.

Service & Ambiance
Our server, Braden, was a highlight of the evening. His friendly demeanor and hustle were commendable despite being clearly understaffed. Unfortunately, the management's focus seemed skewed. The manager was noticeably attentive to a VIP table, spending extensive time with them, while other tables, like ours, could have benefited from her support.

Overall Impression
Suite 200 has potential but staffing issues hold it back. If you're in the area, it's worth a visit for the solid food and the hope the leadership improves. But I know of one four-top that got impeccable service. Problem is the restaurant had several other tables occupied.

#AtlantaEats #CrabappleDining #ItalianFlavors #RestaurantReview #SupportLocalEats #FoodieFinds #HonestReview Less

Review: Town Like Taco in Woodstock

Met Woodstock's very own Leo Shafto at @townelaketacoco, a spot he's been raving about. As someone who enjoys exploring local food gems, I had to check it out for myself.

The Experience
The vibe is distinctly American, with a menu that offers a variety of proteins. I tried the shrimp, chicken, beef, and pork options, and I must say, the Kickin’ Chicken stood out. The chicken, sourced from Springer Mountain, is grilled but with a satisfying crunch.

What I Loved
• Sauces: The sauces here are quite impressive, adding a flavorful punch to every bite.
• Fresh Ingredients: You can really taste the freshness in everything they serve.

Final Thoughts
While it may not be the kind of place I'd drive across town for, it's a solid choice if you're in the area. The food is tasty, and it's a spot my daughter would enjoy, especially with their burrito options. If you reside in the Town Lake area, it’s definitely worth a visit.

Hashtags: #TownLikeTaco #WoodstockEats #KickinChicken #LocalEats #FoodieAdventures #FamilyFriendlyDining #AtlantaGrubber Less

Promising Debut at Dhansiri Bangladeshi Restaurant 🌟

Had the pleasure of trying out Dhansiri Bangladeshi Restaurant, tucked beside Al Zabiha Halal Meat Grocery at Beaver Ruin and Indian Trail in Norcross. Here's my unbossed and unbought take:

Duck Bhuna: The duck is organic and the flavors are rich and memorable. A must-try for anyone who loves a well-cooked duck dish!

Spicy Aloo Chop: This dish has earned a spot in my top 4 potato dishes of the year, and it's the best I’ve had in Georgia so far. The spice blend is spot on, making it a delightful treat.

The restaurant keeps it simple with a no-frills setup, focusing on delivering authentic Bangladeshi flavors. If you're in the area, it's worth checking out!

#DhansiriBangladeshi #NorcrossEats #DuckDelight #AlooChopMagic #AtlantaGrubber #FoodieFinds Less

Discover Peachtree Corners: A Dining Gem

A few years ago, I wrote an article for ScoopOTP, predicting Peachtree Corners would emerge as the next Alpharetta or Roswell in the suburban dining scene. While it hasn't fully reached that level, Peachtree Corners has undeniably made significant progress.

Stage Kitchen & Bar: A Must-Visit Date Night Spot
Our recent visit to Stage Kitchen & Bar confirmed its reputation as the premier date night location in Peachtree Corners. This restaurant offers a diverse menu, featuring everything from sushi to pasta, and a wide array of seafood, chicken, and steak options.

Highlights from Our Visit
Even on a Monday night, the restaurant was bustling, a testament to its popularity. The oxtail dumplings stood out, with a delightful fusion of flavors from parmesan and gruyere cheese. Meanwhile, the lobster and shrimp spaghetti impressed with a generous, Alfredo-like sauce, perfectly complemented by pancetta.

My wife chose the Caesar salad, and we both appreciated the flavorful dressing and the unique addition of crispy chickpeas. Stage Kitchen & Bar consistently delivers creative and unique takes on classic dishes, a quality we admire.

While we also enjoy their sister restaurant, Peche, Stage Kitchen & Bar remains our top choice for a fancier sit-down meal in Norcross or Peachtree Corners.

Stay updated with more reviews and dining insights by following Atlanta Grubber. Special thanks to @OffshoreInsider for supporting our feed. For top sports picks and vetted sportsbooks, visit OffshoreInsiders.com. Follow me on Twitter @AtlantaGrubber. Less

Discovering Authentic Flavors at Mr. Lin Authentic Chinese
I recently stumbled upon Mr. Lin Authentic Chinese in the Rivermont Shopping Center, the only stretch of Holcomb Bridge Road that falls within Johns Creek. To my surprise, this hidden gem offers a delightful experience with authentic Chinese cuisine and American-Chinese as well. The boiled fish (swai or sole) and dumplings were very dishes, comparable to my favorites along Medlock Bridge though not quite as great. But it’s a notch above the nearby Four Seasons, known for its mix of American-Chinese and sprinkling of authentic options.

Authenticity and Americanized
As the name suggests, Mr. Lin provides more authentic offerings than Four Seasons. The restaurant came under new ownership in November of last year, though the exact timing of the name change remains unclear. Interestingly, the menu still features "Yummy Top" in parentheses, a curious choice given Yummy Top's not-so-stellar reputation. However, don't let this deter you—if you sort reviews by the most recent on Yelp, you'll find that all feedback since the management change has been positive. So, focus on the current experience rather than past ratings.

A Bustling Spot
I visited around 1:45 PM, and the place was buzzing with customers. I'm eager to see how Mrs. Grubber will react to their extensive menu catering to her gringo palate. I enjoy American-Chinese too and in fact, there is a bigger void for that than the real thing.

Maybe it’s appropriate that East Roswell’s best Asian option is in fact on the edge of Johns Creek in the one shopping center that is bordered by HBR.

Have you tried Mr. Lin yet? Share your thoughts!

#AuthenticChinese #JohnsCreekEats #HiddenGem #FoodieFinds #AtlantaEats #EastRoswellDining #BoiledFish #DumplingsGalore #MrLinExperience Less

Discovering Rise and Slice: A Culinary Gem in Cumming City Center

After enjoying yet another stellar meal at Washington’s Wharf, I decided it was time to pay a visit to their sister restaurant @riseandslicedeliandmarket in Cumming City Center. The buzz around this place, coupled with high praise for the owner’s former restaurant, The Monkey Barrel in Gainesville, made it a must-visit. Fans of the Hall County spot will be thrilled to find many beloved dishes featured in this Forsyth County newcomer.

The Cheesesteak: A Standout Dish
The cheesesteak at Rise and Slice is a noteworthy creation. While it may not be 100% authentic, it’s undeniably delicious. With a generous portion of meat by Georgia standards, it stands as one of the best cheesesteaks in the area.

Sides and More
The loaded potato salad, although just shy of the life-changing version I once had at Smokey Dreams in Greenville, SC, is still a delightful side dish. My wife’s hashbrown bowl didn’t quite surpass our favorite from Gracious Plenty, but it earned two enthusiastic thumbs up. The house-made biscuit is also a winner.

Breakfast and Lunch Delights
Currently operating as a breakfast and lunch spot, Rise and Slice offers breakfast until closing time. The quality of the food makes it a place worthy of repeat visits.

If you’re in the area and looking for a satisfying meal, Rise and Slice is definitely worth a try.

#FoodieFinds #CummingEats #RiseAndSlice #AtlantaGrubber #GeorgiaEats #CheesesteakLovers #MustTryFood Less

Discovering Washington's Wharf and Rise & Slice in Cumming City Center

Hey food snobs! I recently made my second visit to @washingtonswharf at the Cumming City Center, and here's my honest take on the experience:

Food Highlights
Best Fish & Chips in Metro Atlanta: The fish was perfectly crispy and flavorful.
Shrimp & Chips: Believe it or not, even better than the fish!
British Chips: A strong contender for my second-favorite fries right after Fred’s.
Chicken Fingers: My "landlubber" bride and I both agree they are among the best we've had.

A New Adventure at Rise & Slice
During my visit, I had a chance encounter with the owner, who recently opened Rise & Slice just a few doors down. Fun fact: he used to own The Monkey Barrel in Gainesville! He mentioned that they offer a legit cheesesteak, and based on my experience at Washington's Wharf, I’m optimistic about trying it.

Former regulars from The Monkey Barrel recommended the Pasta Diablo—sounds like a must-try! Rise & Slice is a deli/bakery offering breakfast and lunch, currently in its soft opening phase. When I took a peek inside, the employees were bustling around the small bakery market. I’d love to know more, as the menu piqued my curiosity.
Washington’s Wharf is worth the visit, and I’m excited to explore more at Rise & Slice soon. If you’re in the area, definitely check them out!

#FoodieFinds #AtlantaEats #CummingCityCenter #WashingtonsWharf #RiseAndSlice #FishAndChips #CheesesteakAdventures #SupportLocalEateries Less

Burger Bliss at Che Butter Jonez 🍔

Atlanta foodies, gather 'round! 📍 If you're on the hunt for a burger that truly stands out, let me introduce you to Che Butter Jonez, a hidden gem in the metro area that might technically sit in Brookhaven. Many locals are buzzing about it, and some even claim it's the best burger spot in town. Here's my honest take:

Smashingly Good Burger

The smash burger at Che Butter Jonez is a culinary delight. The Maillard effect is perfectly executed, resulting in a crispy, caramelized exterior that enhances every bite. The roll complements the patty beautifully, making it a top contender in the metro area. In my book, it easily ranks in the top 3-5 burgers around. 🍽️

Tight Spaces, Big Flavors

Here's the trade-off: navigating the parking lot is reminiscent of the tight squeeze at Sean Doty's Best and Wurst restaurants. But trust me, once you take that first bite, you'll know it was worth the effort. Despite the parking woes, the burger's flavor profile is a serious win. 🚗
Have you tried Che Butter Jonez yet? What are you fave burger spots? Share your thoughts and let’s talk burgers! 👇

#CheButterJonez #AtlantaEats #BurgerLovers #FoodieFinds #AtlantaFoodies #HiddenGems #BurgerReview #SmashBurgerHeaven Less

Nobody ever said I was shy about food opinions—but naming one favorite cheesesteak from my native South Jersey? Can’t do it. Too many heavy hitters.

If we’re talking creativity and flavor though, the **Batman & Robin** at @cockadoodledans might just take the belt. Half beef, half chicken, on a seeded roll with their signature creamy, slightly spicy B&R sauce. It’s not a classic cheesesteak—it’s something better.

Even saw a true cheesesteak fanatic (clearly been through Philly and the burbs) call it his favorite on a high-traffic cheesesteak group. Tried it twice now… and I get it.

#AtlantaGrubber #CheesesteakChronicles #FoodieFinds #SouthJerseyEats #MoorestownNJ #CockadoodleDans #RoadFood #PhillySuburbsEats #FoodTravel #AtlantaFoodies Less