by Robert S. on After finishing a run this morning, my friend and I strolled past the new Midtown Diner (open 24 hours) located in the old Jocks and Jills space on 10th and Peachtree. Menu was simple brunch fair and it was within a short walk of another friend's place so we decided to give it a try. I don't know if it was because it is working out kinks or that the owner is new to the restaurant business, but the brunch was an overall comedy of errors with few exceptions. The food was basic but done badly. My Mediterranean omelet (which for some reason had bleu in instead of feta) was overcooked and poorly presented. Despite asking for feta instead of bleu, I wound up with bleu. The accompanying potatoes were undercooked and the toast was, well, slightly warmed bread. The coffee was serviceable, but served with very controlled creamer rations which were served in non eco-friendly plastic cups. My friends said their omelets were not bad, but were best described as the perfect meal if you were hungover and not anything to write home about. Their meals were cooked better so they did not have the same complaint as me. Our server was very pleasant and apologetic. She did her best despite being left alone to man a patio (which is perfect to enjoy an outdoor dining experience) on a Sunday for brunch. The owner (or at least someone we believed to be the owner) was called into duty and did his best to assist, but clearly they were both overwhelmed. They did the best they could despite the situation and we were appreciative of it. I would give it another shot in a few months to see if they were able to work out the issues, but, only if I am in the neighborhood. This is not a destination place for someone who does not live within walking distance of it. There are many other places in Atlanta that are better for brunch. Although being a 24 diner, there are other opportunities for this place to succeed (happy hour, late night drinks, late night dining, desserts and coffee), but that will only happen if they can get all the parts working together and fast.
by Alvera Taul on What a cool lounge. I really like Third Floor Cafe. It's got a nice sense of character, with it's polished hardwood floors, grand piano, comfy sofas, dim lights and large windows. I don't know who picks the music for the place, but it's also top notch. How often are you going to hear an Elliott Smith B-Side at a Korean Bar? Also the Tuesday special, man. For twelve bucks you can completely gorge yourself on tonkatsu or korean fried chicken and all you can drink beer or wine. Although the beer is selection for this deal is limited, there was one time when the beer ran out, so they opened it up to whatever we wanted. The service is also very friendly. This place made me barf. And I'm going back for more. Ask for Animal Kim if he's around (yes, that's really his name). That guy is hilarious, after we talked with him for a bit, he even gave us a round of Godfather's on the house.
