Table Talk

By Mike Vick

September 5, 2007 8:08 AM | Link to this

Dong Bang Korean Cuisine

By who cares

September 5, 2007 8:09 AM | Link to this

who knows? Who cares? I stay away from them all. Stick with the onion rings & chili dogs at The VArsity.

By Peyton Manning

September 5, 2007 8:13 AM | Link to this

I like the lil doggies too!! Now when was that next fight scheduled again……..I need to run by the ATM…..

By melissa kay

September 5, 2007 8:15 AM | Link to this

Poncho’s or free samples at the Buford Hwy Farmers Market.

By Wilson

September 5, 2007 8:19 AM | Link to this

Let’s not forget “Comida China” (Spanish for “China food”), just south of North Druid Hills Road. Gross.

By spacewrangler

September 5, 2007 8:20 AM | Link to this

This is tough call, but I will go with Com for Vietnamese, Hae Won Dae for Korean, and Canton House for Chinese/dim sum.

By Koz

September 5, 2007 8:28 AM | Link to this

I’ve heard that Chef Liu was good but I’ve been afraid to go in there, it looks a little run down.

Can anyone confirm or deny the quality of their food?

By mm mmm good!

September 5, 2007 8:30 AM | Link to this

El Norteno!! Dos gorditas, por favor. And they have a salsa bar! Pork and chicken cooked over real fire. Muy delicioso!

By TCBinATL

September 5, 2007 8:31 AM | Link to this

Nice work, Spacewrangler.

I’ll have to go with Com as my overall favorite…oh, those grape leaf rolls!

And do yourself a favor and try the short ribs (listed as shot bibs in the menu) at Hae Won Dae.

By Wayne

September 5, 2007 8:34 AM | Link to this

Ming’s BBQ - Soy Sauce Chicken is the best. Love the sauce.

By Eataround

September 5, 2007 8:36 AM | Link to this

88 Tofu House - hot Korean soup - so hot you can poach an egg in it. In fact, they bring you a raw egg to add to your soup! Soup can be spiced from wussy American mild to You Must Have a Cast Iron Gullet hot. In spite of the name, there isn’t a lot of tofu. Feel free to order the “chicken breat” [sic] soup. Oh yeah, you can go whenever you want because they’re “24 Hours Open”.

By ozzfest

September 5, 2007 8:37 AM | Link to this

Panang is one of the best restaurants of any type, anywhere in Atlanta.

By sofia

September 5, 2007 8:40 AM | Link to this

i love any of them that sell roasted dog! yum, yum.

By DYJ

September 5, 2007 8:40 AM | Link to this

Little Szechuan at 5091 Buford Hwy. Best Chinese food and service around. Plus, every time we go we are treated to a chef’s creation on the house!

By ckt

September 5, 2007 8:54 AM | Link to this

@ koz - chef liu is fantastic - not much english spoken, but they’re friendly and you’ll get by - the shanghai soup dumplings are as good as any i’ve had outside san francisco.

By Jessica

September 5, 2007 9:02 AM | Link to this

The Havana Sandwich Shop near the intersection of Buford Highway and N. Druid Hills. I’m utterly and forever in love with their sandwiches, and slowly but surely trying them all!

By Gabby

September 5, 2007 9:34 AM | Link to this

Com Vietnamese Grill-the food is awesome. They have the best grilled meat (seafood, lamb).

By Jess

September 5, 2007 9:35 AM | Link to this

I agree with Jessica. The Havana Sandwich Shop is SO good. Best sanwiches. Especially if you’re craving some yummy flan or rice pudding. There are lots of great mexican spots but my favorite is Tortas Locas (tortas consist of bread, avocado, steak/pork or chicken, melted cheese..mmm)and Don Taco whch has really good authentic tacos. enjoy!

By tom

September 5, 2007 9:40 AM | Link to this

MACHU PICHU

By Chuck

September 5, 2007 9:49 AM | Link to this

I use to like C’om. But now it mainly caters to Western tastes by DOUSING their dishes with so much sugar/corn syrup. If I want that much sugar in my Asian food I would head down to Chin Chin. Yuck.

I would list some better Asian eateries but then people would just respond with racist (dog-eating) comments and/or wide-eye gringo would just start showing up and they would end up putting too much sugar in their food as well.

By Mary Ann

September 5, 2007 9:51 AM | Link to this

Havana

By bell

September 5, 2007 9:53 AM | Link to this

Little Havana, best Cuban sandwich ever

By April

September 5, 2007 9:57 AM | Link to this

The Havana Sandwich shop is definitely the best. With great food and service, it’s good having a little taste of Cuba in Atlanta.

By lucky

September 5, 2007 10:08 AM | Link to this

Waffle House

By Benicio

September 5, 2007 10:10 AM | Link to this

the lunch at Pink Pony isn’t too bad

By Patrick

September 5, 2007 10:14 AM | Link to this

Panahar - in northeast plaza, its Bangladeshi and its awesome

By CL

September 5, 2007 10:16 AM | Link to this

Panang

By BJ

September 5, 2007 10:25 AM | Link to this

Best menu and food will be found at Machu Pichu. They do wonders with potatoes and fish.

By Amy

September 5, 2007 10:32 AM | Link to this

There’s a little burrito place past Clairmont but before 285. I think it’s called El Veloz?

Best burritos in Atlanta.

By Michael

September 5, 2007 10:35 AM | Link to this

Bien Thuy…delicious

By workinChamblee

September 5, 2007 10:36 AM | Link to this

Canton House for Dim Sum and Penang are hands down the best. Havana for Cuban sandwiches and El Norteno for grilled chicken and pork.

By tabb

September 5, 2007 10:45 AM | Link to this

Panchos was a favorite when I lived in ATl back in the 80’s

By Darin

September 5, 2007 10:49 AM | Link to this

Dai Loi makes some great pho.

The sandwiches at Lee’s Bakery are consistently good, especially the grilled pork.

I’ve enjoyed the tacos and beans at El Taco Veloz and also the pupusas at Latina Rincon.

By Foodie

September 5, 2007 10:57 AM | Link to this

I’m with Chuck. I’m appalled by the level of racism in this supposedly progressive city. Step out of your comfort zone and have some of the best food in town. Chef Liu is absolutely fantastic. Best dumplings ever. First China, next to Cafe Mozart, has excellent sea food and then you can go next door for a red bean donut. There’s a Pho 69 or 79 (can’t remember the number) in Fiesta Plaza that I think beats Com-definitely more authentic and has a super friendly owner. Korean Noodle House (in the strip behind Chef Liu) has a limited menu but incredible home made noodles.

I think the best dim sum is actually up in Duluth at East Pearl on Shackleford Road. Everything is hot and fresh and there’s lots of variety.

By JJ

September 5, 2007 11:02 AM | Link to this

THE BEST chinese food I have ever had came from Jade Garden in Chinatown, Seattle, WA. I was there over a month ago, and have not had chinese food since.

By Lex Luthor

September 5, 2007 11:07 AM | Link to this

Its a toss up b/w the Pink Pony steaks and Taco Bell.

By SAR

September 5, 2007 11:24 AM | Link to this

Buford Hwy? Ahhh, no thanks, I don’t eat dogs; I play toss the tennis ball with them and walk them.

By Ole Man Bourbon

September 5, 2007 11:36 AM | Link to this

Little Szechuan is the best chinese in town.

By Kat

September 5, 2007 11:41 AM | Link to this

Hae Won Dae for Korean and Taco Veloz for Mexican are the best!

By Jim Ivie

September 5, 2007 11:43 AM | Link to this

With out a doubt, best Chinese food is at “Mint”

By Linda

September 5, 2007 11:49 AM | Link to this

El Taco Veloz! Best tacos in town. Their Horchata(rice drink) is best sugar rush you can find! A true gourmet hole in the wall!LOL Fast service as well!

By Daniel

September 5, 2007 11:54 AM | Link to this

Thanks everyone for posting stuff on here. I can’t wait to try out some of these places.

Me gusta Mexican, Korean, Indian, Chinease, Thai, Vietnamese, and Bangladeshi cuisine. Balo, balo, balo (that’s Bangla for good).

By lazy les

September 5, 2007 11:59 AM | Link to this

Canton House dimsum is a pure delight.

By Michael

September 5, 2007 11:59 AM | Link to this

So sad that so many people are missing out on amazing foods because they grew up thinking that anything other than chili dogs and Burger King were weird and gross…I guess that’s why the South are the fattest asses in the country…Thanks for perpetuating the stereotypes guys!! GOOO rednecks!

By Annoyed

September 5, 2007 12:00 PM | Link to this

SAR, where did you find your information that Buford Highway serves dog? Do you have proof? Close-minded assumptions like that just show how ignorant you are. So, do you eat fast food with hormone-pumped meat? Hot dogs with goodness knows what kind of fillers? Most of the food you get on Buford Highway is fresh from the farmer’s market.

I feel sorry for you and your foolish xenophobic brain. you don’t even know what you’re missing.

By dales

September 5, 2007 12:07 PM | Link to this

The best include The Havana Sandwich Shop for Cuban sandwiches and El Norteno for roasted chicken. Hae Won Dae gives you a ton of food for the buck and just off Buford Highway, on Shallowford Rd., is Casa Vieja for great Columbian. The Buford Highway Farmer’s Market has takeout dumplings, made right in front of you, available in the back of the store. No dog, just great food!

By Dave

September 5, 2007 12:13 PM | Link to this

Hot dog lovers deserve no better!

By doc

September 5, 2007 12:20 PM | Link to this

panahar is excellent with a doting almost over zealous owner that i like immensely. let him order a couple of things for you and it wont disappoint.

pho 79 which is up there in value and taste is now in doraville at 5000 winters chapel rd. get to know the “bossy’ owner and she will take care of you.

By Patrick

September 5, 2007 12:30 PM | Link to this

What about Pho Ga for Vietnamese Pho? It’s right next to the market in Asian Square.(That’s not a racial reference, it is really called Asian Square.) In the past, my friend Khanh and I used to eat Pho there and it was pretty good.

By SAR

September 5, 2007 12:35 PM | Link to this

To Michael and Annoyed, relax…I do not eat meat, period. And as far as your remarks about the south, you’re here, right? If you hate the south so much, why stay? Head to New Jersey, it’s lovely this time of the year. If I drive down Buford Hwy. and I do not find anything appealing to my taste buds, it’s my business. If I see the Buford area as an almost third world looking blight to the city, it’s my perception and the last time I checked, I am entitled to my opinion. I’ll stick to my kitchen, the deli at Whole Foods and a few other places I frequent that do not have me driving on, or intersecting Buford Hwy. Get over your pompous selves, if you’re idea of international cuisine is Buford Hwy, you’re a joke.

By HMC

September 5, 2007 12:42 PM | Link to this

The BH! Youre talking about my ‘hood! -For a true experience, venture in to Plaza Fiesta (any day but sunday) and try the food in the food court-its all yummy!!

Others: For Mexican: El Potro and La Rumba and for Tortas, the TORTAS place in the food court at Plaza Fiesta Lees Bakery: croissants & baguettes Com: Vietnamese New Paradise for Chinese Canton House for Dim Sum Havana for Cuban Sandwiches and most of all: The Rusty Nail for the best servers, wings and burgers on the BH!!!!!

By Ole Man Bourbon

September 5, 2007 12:43 PM | Link to this

Give me a break.

By Ole Man Bourbon

September 5, 2007 12:46 PM | Link to this

There is plenty of good food at Buford Hwy. And yes, it is in fact international.

Keep missing out those of you who wish. More for the rest of us.

By Walt

September 5, 2007 12:46 PM | Link to this

I bet the rats per square mile is the highest in Georgia on Buford Highway.Also the Havanna Sandwich is good but dont look around too much.Cockroaches as big as mice and I dont even want to think about the rats that might be in that buiding.I would be real leery of a lot of those restaurants on Buford Hwy.p.s Chineese people are not real clean people. Not trying to be mean ,just a fact

By el dang!

September 5, 2007 12:47 PM | Link to this

Panahar - Khulna City Represent!!!

By bentley

September 5, 2007 12:48 PM | Link to this

To SAR-Ignorance is bliss. For those who aren’t so ignorant, there are plenty of good, authentic restaurants on Buford Hwy that you can’t find anywhere else. ie: Lee’s Bakery and Tofu House.

By Mary

September 5, 2007 1:03 PM | Link to this

Pung Mie is the best Chinese I have ever had. Been eating there for about 10 years when they were in the hole in the wall. You gotta try it! The braised shrimp is delish!

By Still annoyed ;-)

September 5, 2007 1:07 PM | Link to this

Oh, SAR-you totally missed my point. Of course you are entitled to your opinion. Of course you can eat whatever you want. But it is unfair to make remarks about the quality of food when you refuse to even try it. And it is especially wrong to bring in the “dog” stereotype-whether you meant to be or not, you’re being racist. And Buford Highway is far from blighted. People are living the American dream by starting businesses. New developments are coming all the time. I even saw a brand new Rolls Royce at Chef Liu a while back.

So before you start going off on all the rest of us, I highly recommend you get off your high horse and start looking at your own prejudices. Talk about pompous-the deli at Whole Foods? There are some great vegetarian options on the highway. And if you went to the Buford Highway farmer’s market, you’d see a vast array of perfect produce. And you’d also see that you’re overpaying for your Whole Foods just because you’ve been spoon-fed the idea of the brand and refuse to expand your horizons.

By Chef Diablo

September 5, 2007 1:10 PM | Link to this

Love this from SAR - “Get over your pompous selves, if you’re idea of international cuisine is Buford Hwy, you’re a joke.” If you have traveled internationally…not every country is “clean” to your standards. But your words doesn’t really show that you know anything culinary. Telling people to go to NJ? Atlanta is not exactly the culinary mecca in the world. Soto did what you said and moved to NYC b/c he was tired of wannabe food critics as yourself. If you think Whole Foods is the end all and be all of markets…please stay there and pay their 400% markup prices. And nothing in WF is anywhere ethnic foodwise. Quality isn’t as good as you think. Your food knowledge is a joke.

By The Captain

September 5, 2007 1:10 PM | Link to this

Abby (sp?) Ethiopian. Takes a while but it is worth it!

Actually SAR you’re the pompous one, jumping into discussions just to throw out insults at people and areas that you don’t like.

By SSR

September 5, 2007 1:16 PM | Link to this

Panang has the most awesome food… Each time we went there every single dish has been excellent.

By Casey

September 5, 2007 1:31 PM | Link to this

When I read the question, I said to myself, “Let’s see how fast an ignorant redneck posts something about a dog.” Funny to see several of them out in full force. I like Little Szechuan and Pung Mie.

By Chef Diablo

September 5, 2007 1:33 PM | Link to this

Btw- it’s Penang and it is good for what it is. Roti canai is tasty. Chef Liu has gone down in quality, the Shanghai soup buns are a lot smaller than the standard handmade ones and very little “soup” inside. Its frozen, most of the buns/dumplings are frozen. They really should put that ice box with all the bags of dumplings in the back. Its not bad, just not as great as it should be. Ming’s- all roasted/bbq meats, congee, beef chowfun, and rice plates. China Delight has the best dim sum, the others Canton House, Oriental Pearl, Royal China are not bad either. Chinatown square food court- HK BBQ. El Rey del Taco- tacos tacos tacos. Panahar is good for what it is. thx Mirza. Havana is tasty but Palomilla has the best cuban sandwich in Atl. All the korean restos mentioned are good too. C’om was good, now commercialized. New places will pop up every week, just need to check in every now and then. Too much to list for BH.

By rjm1604

September 5, 2007 1:38 PM | Link to this

Scratch Bien Thuy; it’s been closed for years.

By Stacey

September 5, 2007 1:41 PM | Link to this

Hae Woon Dae for Korean. I was a little hesitant but I’m up for trying anything. Not dissapointed. A bit of a language barrier to get through but very tasty.

By phootflash

September 5, 2007 1:47 PM | Link to this

Hey Amy, That taco place is called Taco Veloz and it does have the best burritos in town. The green sauce is excellent.

By TomC

September 5, 2007 1:51 PM | Link to this

The food as New Paradise Chinese food is always great. The lobster is a bargain and always delicious. The staff is fun. I’ve eaten there for years and never been disappointed.

By Hmm

September 5, 2007 1:56 PM | Link to this

I’m pretty picky about my food and so I don’t venture out to new places enough. But, I really love Com for Vietnamese.

By gatorbite67

September 5, 2007 2:04 PM | Link to this

i LOVE Havana. I used to go there when I was a little girl when the man who opened the shop still ran it. I believe his daughter in law Debbie runs it now. Just as good as it ever was. What is PHO? I’ve never had Vietnamese food and I’d love to try it. BTW, I live in Winder and it doesn’t get anymore south than that. Please don’t use the south as an excuse for ignorance. There are many of us that have lived here all of our lives and love to try new things and foods and cultures everyday. You really show your ignorance when making a statement like that.

By tina

September 5, 2007 2:10 PM | Link to this

I recommend Lee’s Bakery (great Vietnamese pork sandwiches for $3.00), Com, Hae Won Doo and Pho Ga

By who cares

September 5, 2007 2:13 PM | Link to this

Taco Veloz has good tacos-quite frankly, would not want to go to chambodia at night. Although SAR sounds like a tasty Vietnamese dish. there was a chinese buffet at the Corner of 285 and Buford Hwy across from the holiday inn that was pretty good.

By ben

September 5, 2007 2:19 PM | Link to this

Since Cleves sold out havent been that way.Rather eat at home.

By jc_atl

September 5, 2007 2:23 PM | Link to this

Côm has to be at the top of the list but I’m also a fan of 88 Tofu House, Little Szechuan, Canton House, Taco Veloz and Havanna Sandwich Shop. Penang is somewhere in the top 10 as well.

By Agut Thon

September 5, 2007 2:24 PM | Link to this

wow.. I thought racisim was over in the south. But from the comments I have read I see ignorace is in the lead. I would rather eat a rat or a dog then some chemically enhanced artificial food stuff that will give you cancer. Understand this is not to say the Americans that live and operate shops in and around atlanta serve Rat or Dog. But if I had a choice, I will eat that any day. People need to grow up…

By Clint

September 5, 2007 2:52 PM | Link to this

Definitely Machu Pichu for the best Peruvian food in Atlanta. That’s the only ethnic restaurant on Buford Hwy that I’ve been to.

By atlgamecock

September 5, 2007 2:53 PM | Link to this

Can’t believe that no one mentioned where to get the best buffalo wings, fries and onion rings…Yes, on Buford Highway…Little place called International Cafe…Been eating there for almost 15 years and my wife and I will drive from Marietta to get them…They are the BEST !!! And here’s to you Nick at the Rusty Nail;keep that pistol smokin’ as it has forever…Love those mushroom burgers !!!

By phootflash

September 5, 2007 3:00 PM | Link to this

Cleves had the best country fried steak I ever had. Too bad it closed.

Yin Jing is good. I like the black bean noodle dish they have. They are behind the old El Toro #2 which is long gone.

By SAR

September 5, 2007 3:00 PM | Link to this

Okay, go to he web for all of the local eight county metro areas, define your search to health inspections, define one more step to addresess and see what you come up with. A four mile area of Bufurd has one of the lowest grades in county health inspections. My, my…the look of surprise on my face ! Give me a break; Stevie Wonder could ride down Buford and tell it is trashy and filthy. If you want to bust a gut eating God knows what, go for it. And for all of you who have gone to Cancun on a Delta discount fare, you’re not worldly travelers. Yawn. A Rolls Royce…wow, you really saw one? Did the pimp inside wave to you? Did you feel special? Was that the highlight of your day. Yawn.

By Michael

September 5, 2007 3:04 PM | Link to this

BTW, for those that do not eat meat, Buford Highway is an EXCELLENT option…there would not be any vegetarian options worth having in this country if it weren’t for these wonderful people bringing their ethnic recipes to the states…the Middle East and Asia wrote the book on how a vegetable can not only sustain life, but bring it so much joy…then again it sure is hard to pass by that Korean BBQ…

By Diane

September 5, 2007 3:11 PM | Link to this

Agut Thon, with a anme like that…you have eaten rat and dog. Go back home !

By Chairman Mao

September 5, 2007 3:11 PM | Link to this

I’ve lived near BH for 10 years and have tried many many places and many ethnicities. By far the best is Yen Jing Chinese Restaurant 5302 Buford Hwy Ne in the Korean Plaza. Doraville a mile or so south of 285. Try the soup…any of them. Amazing!

By Michael

September 5, 2007 3:25 PM | Link to this

SAR, could you post the link to that search you did…I can’t seem to find the data that you are referring to

By Bobbi

September 5, 2007 3:25 PM | Link to this

I like the ever ethnic Rusty Nail. It is a little bit redneck and a lot of drinkers but they have really good food. Of course you can’t take your kids there anymore because according to DeKalb county they are consdiered a bar and not a restaurant.

By Gross!

September 5, 2007 3:28 PM | Link to this

Yuck! Don’t ever go to Havana, unless you want to get sick! They had a health code rating of 61!! Dekalb County has all the restaurant health codes online (awesome!). I suggest everyone check them out before going out to eat!

http://atlanta.digitalhealthdepartment.com/dekalb/index.cfm

By tcote

September 5, 2007 3:37 PM | Link to this

Little Szechuan and Pung Mie BY FAR THE BEST!!!!

By Gina

September 5, 2007 3:41 PM | Link to this

Wow, I am sooo glad I love to read the AJC blogs on food. I have a vacation home in the Athens area and was wondering if there were any Vietnamese or Thai restaurants around. I will definitely visit Buford Hwy and check out all these restaurants. I love their spring rolls (not fried) and the Pho. I bet Buford Hwy is reminiscent of the ethnicity found in SoHo in NYC. Gotta love it…and be thankful for it!! Thanks for all the great postings!!

By SAR

September 5, 2007 3:42 PM | Link to this

Thanks Gross, send the link to Micheal, as he is computer challenged. Michael,can you open a link? See Michael open the link, run Michael run…..to the bathroom.

By SAR

September 5, 2007 3:51 PM | Link to this

I promised myself I would remain mute and not post again until I read the post from Gina. Vacation home in Athens? Georgia or Greece? Halarious! Buford being compared to SoHo? I spit my water on my screen with that one. I suppose one could compare the apartment complexes along Buford with the free move in special and free VCR ( wow…a free VCR)with a Tribecca loft also? Gina, sweetie…when your gray matter is obviously yetserdays underwear and not brain matter, do not try to be pretentious, it doesn’t work for you. You guys are free entertainment. Did you get the link to open Michael?

By Anne

September 5, 2007 3:58 PM | Link to this

Being new to the area, thanks to all of you for providing some excellent ideas. And to the “health inspector” nut….I’ve seen some supposedly 5-star restaurants kitchen’s that wouldn’t pass health inspections either.

By Health Inspector Nut?

September 5, 2007 4:10 PM | Link to this

Hmmm, I don’t think I’d call myself a “health inspector” nut. I have a Master of Public Health degree, and choose to educate myself on where I eat out. I didn’t say all of the restaurants have poor ratings. Look them up! If you choose to go somewhere that has been cited and issued a FAILING inspection, then go right ahead. But, at least be educated. It’s a great service offered for free by the county. And by the way, ALL restaurants in Dekalb are on there, even the 5 star ones. And I would not go to a restaurant that recieved a poor rating, no matter what type of establishment it was!

By wayne

September 5, 2007 4:13 PM | Link to this

Yen Jing is good. For korean, I like So Kong Dong, which is a very short walk from yen jing, roughly across from the Mozart Bakery.

By The Captain

September 5, 2007 4:16 PM | Link to this

Gee SAR I didn’t think any of these posters where pretentious as you keep claiming, they’re just discussing foods that they like, unless you think any food that isn’t to your likening is the definition of pretentious? But even if you do they at lest don’t show the arrogance and superiority that you do.

By Chris

September 5, 2007 4:18 PM | Link to this

Must try a new one at Park and Buford: Cafe 101 has changed into a Tiwanese rest. Very good, need to bring your own adult beverage until they get their liquor license…

By Chef Diablo

September 5, 2007 4:32 PM | Link to this

SAR, please enlighten all of us dummies, chefs, foodies, critics and the masses on what “establishments” you spend you hard earned Public Health salary at…please tell us what restos you think is so great and it doesn’t have to be on BHwy. Obviously you don’t goto ANY places on BHwy. We wonder what county you live in that has the cleaniest restos. We all should be grateful to have someone as smart as you in ATL. I know a lot of Applebees and Waffle Houses have perfect scores.

By work much?

September 5, 2007 4:34 PM | Link to this

I very seldom read these blogs and now I remember why. Came here looking for actual restaurant recommendations (per the blog topic) and got some good ones, but find this has devolved into a random, b***, battle of a handful of the ATL’s most dimwitted. SAR has been working this blog for four and a half hours! Wow. Do you actually get paid to work or is your “job” just sit online all day and b*** at strangers while defending your own irrelevant points? Perhaps some other hobbies…

Feel free to blast back at me. I’ll be long gone from this mess.

By Vanessa

September 5, 2007 4:40 PM | Link to this

For Sushi, Kang Nam. It’s just north of 285 on the right after Baldinos. Look for the puffer fish on the sign.

By Vanessa

September 5, 2007 4:41 PM | Link to this

For sushi, Kang Nam. It’s just north of 285 on the right after Baldinos. Look for the puffer fish on the sign.

By Vanessa

September 5, 2007 4:50 PM | Link to this

For ceviche, either Machu Picchu or Monterrey, near the intersection with Buford Hwy and Park Ave. They have Ceviche Tostadas that are fabulous! Unfortunately, that’s the only way you can get the ceviche.

For fish tacos, El Rey del Taco. It’s near Asian Square and I think it’s open 24 hours! Does anyone know if this is right?

By SAR so NOT

September 5, 2007 4:53 PM | Link to this

To ALL the ignorance on this blog… Especially SAR.. No one knows where or how the food you consume on a daily basis is kept. Just because the store is neat, clean etc.. does not mean the place where it was grown or package is.. That reallyy shows how stupid you are… People like you make laugh about how you won’t eat anywhere unclean etc.. But then eat food that was probably urinated on, defecated on, spit on and “special debris” was placed oh so carefully on and think you are eating so much better.. What a L O S E R!!!!!!! WAKE UP!!!!

By Ouch!

September 5, 2007 5:03 PM | Link to this

Yow, I just got zinged by SAR! oh lawdy it hurts. I simply said that about the Rolls Royce to make the point that all walks of life patronize the places you are too snobby to even drive past. And there you go with your ignorant conclusions again. Pimp? It was an affluent family in that car, going to dinner. You clearly want to be smarter than the rest of us, but you can’t even understand my simple points (which weren’t, by the way, meant to insult anyone). I don’t understand why if you say you’re entitled to your opinions about where to eat, we’re not entitled to discuss where we like to go. What harm does it do you for us to talk about places we enjoy? Is your own life so miserable that all you can do to deal with your own pitiful existence is put other people down? you are pathetic. I mean, talk about pompous-you have to bring up your education to make yourself sound like an authority. It’s very condescending and disrespectful. All of us on here are capable of making our own choices and should be free to do so without getting blasted by an obviously insecure individual.I just can’t understand why some people just insist on trying to ruin other peoples’ good times.

And Diane-who do you think you are? Insulting someone’s name that way. You are clearly disturbed. Telling someone to go home? How do you even know who he/she is? And were your ancestors never immigrants to this country?

I think what the smart people on this board have been trying to convey is that what is great about Buford Highway is its diversity. Not only that, an article in the AJC regarding a Super H Mart discussed the economic impact of such establishments. Cities like Doraville would go bankrupt were it not for the hard working people who have started restaurants and stores on Buford Highway. And I commend them for still trucking along while they are hated by people like SAR and Diane. It can’t be easy, and I for one would much rather spend my money on good food from an honest hard-worker than at yet another corporation that uses a lame marketing scheme to overcharge rich neo-hippies.

By dana

September 5, 2007 5:22 PM | Link to this

Ming’s BBQ @ Asian Square

I own a Texas style BBQ restaurant and this is hands down my favorite on Buford Highway, try the duck, lean roast pork, the house fried rice is fresh and not greasy, finally the wonton soup (with vegetables) is great, you must ask for the vegetables though, also the garlic chinese egplant is great.

By Melinda

September 5, 2007 5:44 PM | Link to this

A steaming bowl of Pho Ga (essentially Vietnamese chicken noodle soup) at the Pho Hoa restaurant in Asian Square is a perfect complement to a cold, rainy day. Also, although I’ve never eat there, I sure would like to know what “Chicken World” is all about. (No kidding, that’s the name of the restaurant!) Has anyone ever been brave enough to eat there?

By Melinda

September 5, 2007 6:01 PM | Link to this

Wow, I can’t believe that someone else knows about the fresh dumplings at the back of the Buford Highway Farmer’s Market…I thought that was my secret :) Oh, yeah, and El Taco Veloz, mmmm, love the nachos, chile relleno burrito, and taco lingua. There’s an El Taco Veloz on Windy Hill,too, for those of us on the west side. And to SAR, if you think the deli at Whole Foods is “clean,” you’re sadly mistaken. I’ve gotten full-blown FOOD POISONING off of two different items at their deli. I finally swore to myself that I’d never buy another perishable item at WF. So much for “health food”!

By DecaturKev

September 5, 2007 6:04 PM | Link to this

I used to go to Pancho’s, but the food started becoming mediocre. However, the margaritas still are quite good, and really give you a buzz. I go to a couple Mexican places here in Decatur, and out Tucker way. But, El Taco Veloz is really good and quick, I always stop there when I’m in that neighborhood and hungry. And, ditto to several on Canton House, it is the best Dim Sum in the Buford Hwy corridor.

By SAR

September 5, 2007 6:29 PM | Link to this

Relax guys, I just had my panties rolled up in a bunch and I couldn’t think straight, lol.

By Jason

September 5, 2007 6:37 PM | Link to this

El Rey del Taco is my favorite Mexican restaurant in town. The Havana Sandwich Shop is another good one, I haven’t been there in a while though.

Las Tortas Locas is right off Buford on Chamblee-Tucker, it’s excellent as well.

By SAR

September 5, 2007 6:42 PM | Link to this

You girls can talk all you want but I am laughing at you from Olive Garden, sipping on white zinfandel. That, my friend, is class.

By P. North

September 5, 2007 6:53 PM | Link to this

For sashimi and sushi - Tair You

By Jodi

September 6, 2007 8:06 AM | Link to this

Anyone that thinks Olive Garden is class obviously lives in DeKalb, Clayton, Henry or Paulding counties. Those are the only counties that don’t have real fine dining and think chain restaurants represents class.

By Wayne

September 6, 2007 8:36 AM | Link to this

To Jodi…I do live in DeKalb, please don’t lump me in with SARS. Buford Hwy has some of the best restaurants…try Happy Valley Seaford for sticky rice!

At last, someone mentioned Ming’s BBQ. It is the best. The only problem is that they don’t take credit cards.

By BKSR

September 6, 2007 8:53 AM | Link to this

olive garden = class??? ha ha ha sorry Sar… ha ha ha back to the topic at hand! one of the best places to dine on buford highway is a resturant called SAMWON GARDEN- best korean bbq!!!!

By whatever

September 6, 2007 9:12 AM | Link to this

Im with WHO CARES.

I stay away from the area like the plague.

but let me throw my hat in the ring….how about Paco’s Taco’s

Isnt that just about every restaurant on Buford Highway these days?

By bksr

September 6, 2007 9:26 AM | Link to this

going further…
SAR- lets face it. your an uneducated tree huggin’ vegan lacking class who have absolutely nothing positive to contribute to this society…. why don’t you crawl back to your little olive garden and enjoy another glass of cheap wine- and keep dreamin about the double wide trailer you wish you could have!!! ha ha ha

By Paula Andrea

September 6, 2007 9:43 AM | Link to this

Casa Vieja

By Paula Andrea

September 6, 2007 9:43 AM | Link to this

Casa Vieja

By Paula Andrea

September 6, 2007 9:43 AM | Link to this

Casa Vieja

By Paula Andrea

September 6, 2007 9:45 AM | Link to this

Casa Vieja - bandaja paisa or higado encebojado

By bobby

September 6, 2007 10:04 AM | Link to this

MACHU PICHU…by far the best!! the pollo saltado is outstanding!!

By bobby

September 6, 2007 10:06 AM | Link to this

MACHU PICHU…by far the best!! the pollo saltado is outstanding!!

By bobby

September 6, 2007 10:06 AM | Link to this

MACHU PICHU…by far the best!! the pollo saltado is outstanding!!

By Reg

September 6, 2007 10:41 AM | Link to this

Ming’s Vietnamese BBQ in Asian Square!

By diva

September 6, 2007 10:50 AM | Link to this

1st Wok Chinese Restaurant

By randomguy

September 6, 2007 11:01 AM | Link to this

Pho Bac. I haven’t had enough of the pho shops to say it’s the best but it’s my favorite of those that I’ve tried. They give you the most meat for the money and great tasting pho as well.

By pootie tang

September 6, 2007 11:05 AM | Link to this

Havannah Sandwich Shop by far.

By huh?

September 6, 2007 11:08 AM | Link to this

how about CHING CHANG CHONG’s

By Kar

September 6, 2007 11:54 AM | Link to this

I love a lot of the places mentioned, but I also love cruising the Buford Highway Farmer’s Market.

Not strictly a restaurant but after having the baked goods, fresh fruit, sushi, Kimchi, and glorious samples of curry, menuedo, grilled meats, noodles, dim sum, etc. I always leave full.

By tee

September 6, 2007 12:18 PM | Link to this

International Cafe has the best hotwings

By MiamiLou

September 6, 2007 12:18 PM | Link to this

Phuket Thai is awesome; being from Miami, I hate to disagree with all of you about Havana Sandwich shop, but it’s nowehere NEAR the authentic cuban food i know and love from growing up in miami; the lechon asado is almost unrecognizable to me & the black beans have no taste

By Gary

September 6, 2007 12:44 PM | Link to this

“Happy Valley”-Awesome Dim Sum

By EVELELVIS

September 6, 2007 12:54 PM | Link to this

let me put and end to this discussion, the best eats on buford hwy is GRANDMAS BISCUITS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By word up

September 6, 2007 12:57 PM | Link to this

I am actually dumber for reading some of these postings (talkin’ bout you SAR). I want my brain cells back.

Havana rocks no matter how dirty it is!

By diana

September 6, 2007 1:03 PM | Link to this

I agree with MiamiLou, I am also from Miami, Phuket Thai rocks as does ‘Com. Havana sandwich shop is merely a poor imitation of Cuban cuisine

By Gary

September 6, 2007 1:22 PM | Link to this

I’m with you Melinda. I’ve gotten full blown food poisoning from Whole Food’s Deli as well. And Sar, White Zinfandel? Olive Garden? CLASS??? Which Trialer park did you just roll out of.

By KJ

September 6, 2007 1:25 PM | Link to this

If you are a vegetarian or vegan the best place is Harmony House on Buford Highway. It is a chinese vegetarian resturant. Even if you are not vegetarian, it is so good it will fool you. Try the Sweet & Sour Chicken or the Mongolian Beef.

By Last American

September 6, 2007 1:25 PM | Link to this

Which Chinese restaurant has the best Won Ton soup. Also, I do not know what Dim Sum is?

By Gary

September 6, 2007 1:33 PM | Link to this

To “Last American” do yourself a favor and Google Dim Sum, then run don’t walk to Buford Highway for the best Dim Sum in Atlanta. You won’t be sorry!

By Owain Ozymandias Buck

September 6, 2007 1:41 PM | Link to this

Hey Michael! I know it’s the next day, but Dang! Don’t you know any redneck worth a damn would love to try new exotic creatures cooked in creative ways! Or do I mean backwoods. Hmmm. Well, whatever my foks are. Anyway, you city folk seem to hold more discrimination towards your food. Any leg count is good for me!

BTW, Harmony is wonderful. I’ve eaten there a while back with some of my pale veggie friends. That Malaysian place nearby is awsome too!

By Bobbi

September 6, 2007 2:07 PM | Link to this

I am also from Miami and you are correct about Havana it is not very tasty when you grew up on the Cuban Cusine in Little Havana in Miami, Heck even OpaLocka or Hialeah had better food. Anybody from Miami know of a place called El Tropico on 36th street in Miami. Best food in the world. But I will eat at Havana’s sometimes. Sorry about straying a little off B.H. still like Nick’s food at the Rusty Nail. International Cafe comes in a close 2nd.

By TMH

September 6, 2007 2:15 PM | Link to this

Gotta go with Pancho’s ! Took my wife (then girlfriend) 19 years ago on our first date. We ate there often because it was cheap AND we loved the fishbowl margaritas. We decided to take our two daughters this past weekend and nothing has changed. I even told the bartender this story and he comp’d us a fishbowl ! Love the food and people.Lived in Atlanta for 45 yrs. and this is the best Mexican eatery in town.

By Dani

September 6, 2007 2:20 PM | Link to this

COM Grill is fantastic. Also, not on BH, but Little Bankok on Cheshire Bridge is amazing Thai food.

I used to love Havana Sandwich Shop, but then I found the health dept ratings on line. Well, that and the last time I was there I saw them drop food on the floor and then serve it to a customer.

By Jo

September 6, 2007 2:32 PM | Link to this

I’ve been eating on Buford Hwy. for years & never got sick. Hmm, let’s see: Happy Valley (LOVE that dim sum!), La Feria (excellent Mexican lunch buffet), Penang, Awash (Ethiopean, in Northeast Plaza), Harmony, Panahar, Pho 99 (96? 69? Whatever, it’s delicious) & when I’m in a certain mood, Ryan’s (blush) Those of you who won’t eat “that there furrin food”, fine by me! That’s more for those of us with sophisticated tastes. As far as I’m concerned, stay in your trailer parks eating Spam on margarine-slathered white bread or, if you’re more, er, “upscale” & live in a cookie-cutter subdision, the Olive Garden is for you, since that’s obviously your idea of ethnic cuisine.

By Owain Ozymandias Buck

September 6, 2007 2:53 PM | Link to this

Oh please, Jo—if you’re going to pretend to have cultivated a rather sophisticated palate, at least bother to learn your culinary traditions. You eat Spam with Mayonnaise, not margarine. Tsk, Tsk. ;)

But seriously, the Hawaiians have raised Spam to haute cuisine. Anybody know how many recipes they have for the stuff?

By Gina

September 6, 2007 3:02 PM | Link to this

This comment is for SAR…first of all I am not being pretentious; I have a vacation home in Athens, Georgia. Many people have 2 homes perhaps you are not one of them. You must be one bored person to take the time to attack other people. I have lived in NYC, Miami and Tampa and am used to different cultures and different cuisines. Atlanta and other Georgia areas might be a far cry from New York City but they do have ALOT to offer. I picked Georgia to move to because of the nice people. Obviously you are not one of them. Get a life and get over yourself.

By Don Dildine

September 6, 2007 3:08 PM | Link to this

Little Szechuan is far and away the best over there.

By Kar

September 6, 2007 3:21 PM | Link to this

I miss Pho Ho Bihn, also known as Pho Uteri, when it was back on Cheshire Bridge.

I used to go to Taco Velez, until I discovered the taqueria inside of Mercado de Puebla. Cheaper, better selection, & more meat per taco.

By El Chacal

September 6, 2007 4:29 PM | Link to this

TORTA LOCA by far has the best sammies on the planet earth.. There’s a Colombian spot just off of Buford on Shallowford called Casa Vieja and they have the best Colombian food in town..

By ME GUSTA

September 6, 2007 4:33 PM | Link to this

PINK PONY!

By Angelica

September 6, 2007 4:42 PM | Link to this

Havana Restaurant & El Potro

By El Chacal

September 6, 2007 4:51 PM | Link to this

Almost forgot about Fast Freddy’s Fried Fingered Delights

By art

September 6, 2007 5:02 PM | Link to this

Best restaurant on Buford Highway? Let’s narrow this down a bit.

Did you mean between the intersections of ptomaine and typhoid. Or did you mean just east of Staph and west of Giardia?

That’s a part of town I stay away from like the plague, pun intended.

By Sarah

September 6, 2007 5:08 PM | Link to this

SAR - please stay off Buford Hwy. I live just off Dresden and we don’t want you here.

By Seressia

September 6, 2007 5:15 PM | Link to this

Someone please tell me where to find good lechon asado! I’ve missed it since I’ve moved back home from Boca. Also, I love the #1 soup at the Pho Goa(?) in Asian Square. Try to make it there once a week—heck might have to go tonight!

By redneck

September 6, 2007 5:26 PM | Link to this

WOW,OLD REDNECK FROM MONTANA IS MAD!!!NO AMERICANS RESTAURANTS IN BUFORD HWY.,NO JEWISH RESTAURANTS,WOW,PLEASE THE LAST AMERICAN STILL LIVING IN BUFORD HWY.,TAKE THE FLAG WITH YOU BEFORE YOU LEAVE,PLEASE.ANGRY RED NECK NEW TO THE CITY.

By redneck

September 6, 2007 5:27 PM | Link to this

WOW,OLD REDNECK FROM MONTANA IS MAD!!!NO AMERICANS RESTAURANTS IN BUFORD HWY.,NO JEWISH RESTAURANTS,WOW,PLEASE THE LAST AMERICAN STILL LIVING IN BUFORD HWY.,TAKE THE FLAG WITH YOU BEFORE YOU LEAVE,PLEASE.ANGRY RED NECK NEW TO THE CITY.

By Me

September 6, 2007 6:10 PM | Link to this

The Havana Sandwish Shop is the best!!! Great food!

By Ken

September 6, 2007 6:28 PM | Link to this

Forget Buford Highway! The BEST Chinese restaurant in Atlanta, or in the Eastern United States, is in Marietta…and I’m not telling you where either. You continue to go to Buford Highway…

By Melissa

September 10, 2007 10:45 AM | Link to this

Pho 79 authentic Vietnamese has moved from Plaza Fiesta on Buford Hwy to the intersection of Winters Chapel and Peeler on the border of Doraville and Dunwoody.

Same enthusiastic and friendly owner. Same delicious and consistently prepared Vietnamese dishes. Nicer looking place, but less traffic…

By Dudeman

September 13, 2007 9:47 AM | Link to this

Yo quiero Taco Bell!

Thanks to all the responses, I can’t wait to try some of these restaurants I haven’t been to. And I agree, Havana Sandwich Shop has the best sandwiches.

By N

September 13, 2007 3:15 PM | Link to this

Cho Sun Ok restaurant!

By BR

September 13, 2007 4:47 PM | Link to this

Da.. SAR, you just made yourself popular on the blog making such ignorant statements.

By John Nickle

September 13, 2007 6:18 PM | Link to this

Pung Mie!!!

Inside the perimeter on the left!

I have been going for over 20 years. Live in Decatur and although it is a drive… It certainly is not a dive.

The original space had an upstairs and a downstairs. Upstairs had large parties all the time. I am Anglo and my wife and I were very much in the minority there… but who cares? They sure didn’t.

The new space is open and gracious as is the service and surrounds.

Relish trays of homemade pickled black beans and kim chee, as well as the seasonal vegetables are served to all as an appetizer to the appetizer.

The steamed dumplings are something to write home about. If you are with a date, I would suggest an appetizer, the steamed dumplings and one entree, if you aren’t planning on taking leftovers home.

We take leftovers and regularly order the garlic chicken as well as the MaPa Tofu. I don’t typically eat tofu. This is different and prepared with silken tofu, dried shrimp and sausage. Even for those watching their diet… when I say sausage… I mean that it is seasoned with it. I am sure that you could order without, if you are vegetarian, but if you aren’t, you are in for a treat!!

They have everything under the sun. I have even eaten sea cucumber here and would not recommend sea cucumber at any restaurant anywhere in the universe including here. Sea cucumber is like eating a giant earthworm.

It is apparently liked within the culture… as I have seen many a folk dine happily on this.

Don’t forget the Saki, if you do drink. If you don’t, enjoy the special hot tea. Something for everyone… including the kids if you bring them along… but a great place for a date and apparently for a wedding reception… as I have seen quite a few on the upper floor over the years. The quietest, calmest, wedding receptions with beautiful, china doll brides that ARE actually blushing.

A beautiful culture. A beautiful time. I step in there and forget that I’m just down the street from a McDonalds, or in Atlanta, or in the USA for that matter.

I hope that true “food freaks” out there stop by to smell the garlic!

I have had the Varsity. I enjoy the Varsity. The Varsity enjoys serving me things that when I was 18, I actually thought would cure a hangover.

I would like to and should try some of the other restaurants along Buford Hwy.

I have done some in the past and the rule is… if you walk in and the population is either non-existant or non ethnic… turn around and walk out. If their own don’t eat it… neither do I!!

Love to those who choose to eat what is yummy and not just filling.

Garbage is filling… but who will eat it?

John Nickle

john at tnt420 dot cam … in case you would like to talk!!!