The 2014 FIFA World Cup culminated last night, and now the FIFA World Cup awards are unveiled. They distinguish key players and teams from this year’s games. So we decided to do our own “Atlanta Restaurant Scene Awards,” putting a spin on the team and player soccer skills to be chef and restaurants accolades. We checked out both diner and press reviews to come up with the list.
We’re eager to hear your thoughts- what do you think of our picks?
Linton Adidas Golden Ball
"Goes to the most outstanding player at the FIFA World Cup, an honour which has gone to truly exceptional players in past tournaments."
Our spin: "Goes to the chef with the most nominations for a James Beard award."
James Beard nominated “Best Chef in the Southeast” 2008-2011 is Linton Hopkins, who will always hold a special place in our heart. Besides being at the helm of Restaurant Eugene, Holeman & Finch Public House and H&F Bread Company, he is founder of Peachtree Road Farmers Market. It’s also important to note others in his restaurant group were also nominated. Aaron Russell for “Outstanding Pastry Chef” in 2012 and 2013, and Holeman & Finch Public House for their “Outstanding Bar Program” in 2012 and 2013.
Adidas Golden Boot
"Goes to the leading goal scorer at the FIFA World Cup."
Our spin: "Goes to the largest number of bookings for June through Open Table."
It is no surprise that a Buckhead Life restaurant earns this title. The Atlanta Fish Market was in the top 10 restaurant bookings for June on Open Table. The restaurant has a 4.5 star rating from more than 730 diner reviews. With fresh fish flown in daily, it makes landlocked Atlanta feel a little closer to the sea.
Adidas Golden Glove
"Goes to the tournament's most outstanding goalkeeper."
Our spin: "Goes to the most reviewed restaurant on Yelp! with at least four stars."
Despite being a restaurant serving only breakfast, brunch and lunch, Highland Bakery in Old Fourth Ward has 663 reviews on Yelp! The pastries take the prize as ravings include the sweet potato pancakes, which were mentioned in 125 reviews and the biscuits in 83 reviews.
Hyundai Young Player Award
Credit: Alexa Lampasona
Credit: Alexa Lampasona
"Given to the best young footballer participating in their first FIFA World Cup. The player must be born on or after January 1, 1993."
Our spin: "Given to a restaurant that has opened in 2013 and received the most awards."
Since opening in May of 2013, Ford Fry's King + Duke has reaped in the press. The concept of wood roasted fare has hooked diners and critics alike. Not to mention Ford Fry was named "Empire Builder of the Year" for the Eater Awards and was a semi-finalist for James Beard Foundation's "Outstanding Restaurateur," 2013.
A few highlights:
- GQ's "Best Restaurants in America for 2014" (ranked #5)
- Urbanspoon's "Top New Restaurants 2013" for Atlanta
- Esquire's "Best New Restaurants 2013"
FIFA Fair Play Award
"Goes to the team with the tournament's best disciplinary record."
Our spin: "Goes to the restaurant with the Best Service rating on Zagat."
Quinones at Bacchanalia was rated 29 out of 30 for possible service points. The service score is based on frequent consumer surveys. "We fully immerse ourselves in the cuisine we serve and the ingredients put on every plate," said Anne Quatrano. "Our desire to present the best shows through our dishes, and our guests respect that."
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