Devils Workshop

has been moved to new address

http://www.atlantaeatsblog.com

Sorry for inconvenience...

Installation (Wordpress Part): Steakhead's Atlanta Eats Blog: August 2005

Tuesday, August 30, 2005

A Prayer for the Residents of the Gulf Coast

Last week, if you would have asked 10 people about the first thing that comes to mind when mentioning the city New Orleans, you may have gotten 10 different answers. Some may have said jazz, others may have said Mardi Gras, others Bourbon Street, and others may have said the Saints. For me, the answer would have been easy- food and possibly competing the with SF as the best cuisine in the country. That was last week. This morning, I think most people's thoughts are on the people whose lives have been torn apart in New Orleans, Gulfport, Biloxi, Mobile and other towns in the region.

As I write this, I am hearing that 80% of New Orleans is underwater, some under 20 ft of water. In times likes this, it makes you grateful for the many things that we take for granted everyday. My thoughts go out to all affected by this monster storm and wish you the best as you attempt to rebuild your cities and your lives.

Saturday, August 13, 2005

Going Loco at Localino

I recently asked the proprietor of Trattoria Il Localino what Localino meant. He responded with a smile, "Crazy place". He soon after corrected himself with the proper definition of "neighborhood place". But you certainly could see the double meaning. Localino, to me, is the most fun one can have in Atlanta dining. The owner himeslf looks a bit loco, with a large head of wavy grey hair that is more reminscent of Einstein than an Italian chef.

Located on Highland Aveneue in a small strip building that also features the North Highland Pub and Wysteria, Localino is a family-run business and features authentic Italian dishes. The calamari are outstanding, and I look forward to the veal parm every time I go.

But the atmoshpere is what really makes this place tick. First, the space is quite intimate. The main dining room is quite cozy and eclectically decorated (this is where you want to sit if possible). Second, they play a wide variety of music from Italian classics like Mario Lanza to disco throughout the evening. Most patrons are will eventually be given some form of silly hat to wear by the accomodating staff. And about every 30 minutes or so, the house lights go down, and the giant disco ball hanging from the main dining room takes over to the tune of Dancing Queen.

But if you want to experience this place, let me give you a couple of tips. The staff here is very good with the upsell. When they offer to bring you something, you can pretty much bet it will wind up on the bill, even though it may seem at the time like a nice offer. The first time Lady Steakhead and I went, we wound up with a $200+ bill for just the two of us, even though the most expensive thing on the menu is only $19.95. Do your best David Spade imitation and learn to say no. Trust me on this.

But that aside, now that I am a seasoned veteran and don't make some of the rookie mistakes, I can honestly say this is a perfect celebration restuarant. Grade: B+.