If you want a first class experience all the way around, it’s hard to beat Restaurant Eugene in Atlanta.
Located on Peachtree Road, just north of downtown, Restaurant Eugene has established itself as one of the leaders in Atlanta cuisine. Chef and owner Linton Hopkins, a James Beard winner for best chef in the Southeast, delivers a fantastic farm-to-table experience, especially if you choose the tasting menu option.
That’s what I’ve done on virtually every trip to this personal favorite. It’s also a must to include the wine pairing as Eugene’s wine list has also earned more than its share of recognition, including being named one of America’s 100 Best Wine Restaurants by Wine Enthusiast.
Following is a few of the selections from my most recent visit that was as fabulous as ever.
The night began with a black pepper macaroon with pimento cheese, which happened to be one of the best things we tasted all night. We followed that with a cup of apple cider with olive oil and sea salt that was delightful.
You always get a few extra special treats when you opt for the tasting menu and this cornbread was as good as it gets.
I loved the Yellow Tail ceviche with a coconut crusted oyster and grapefruit that followed. Then we had this dish of smoked carrots, beets and duck. It was delivered in a covered dish that was opened at the table letting the smoke waft up.
I’ve never been a big fan of scallops, but this seared diver scallop over black truffle risotto I would order anytime.
Perfectly cooked Mahi Mahi with Royal Red shrimps.
My personal entree favorite was this classic chicken and waffle with chicken liver butter and maple syrup.
Some lemongrass granita to cleanse the palette.
Coffee-rubbed venison – nothing short of stupendous!
The cheese course featured this gouda covered with Guinness bubbles.
We could have eaten a gallon of this passion fruit parfait.
A crispy chocolate shell with cookie dough inside and caramel sauce poured over the top.
A chocolate taco in case we hadn’t gotten our sweet fix.
Some parting gifts of which the homemade marshmallows were the best.
Once again, each of these courses were served with a separate glass of perfectly complimenting wine of which my favorite was a 2009 La Mozza, Aragone, Maremma from Tuscany, Italy.