Before coming to Atlanta to study for an M.B.A., Alex Naumov co-owned a creperie chain in Russia, Ukraine and Bulgaria. With a few nods to American tastes and habits, Naumov is replicating that concept at Izba Crepes and Grill In Marietta. And he hopes to expand to several more locations soon.
Naumov originally planned to serve his crepes wrapped to be eaten by hand in the tradition of European stalls and takeaway spots. But he discovered his customers preferred to sit down with a plate and knife and fork. And he decided to create a number of American-inspired combinations, including his most popular crepe, which is based on the classic Philly cheese steak, with sauteed bell peppers and onions, and Provolone.
The look: Izba is situated next door to Barker's Red Hots in a shopping center on busy Windy Hill Road. Inside, the eye-popping red and yellow color scheme joins geometric shapes, sleek tables and chairs and a secluded loft area to create a vibrant contemporary look. Order at the corner and walk around the corner to watch as your crepe is made to order in a matter of minutes.
The scene: Izba is the name for a traditional Russian style of log house. Based on that, Naumov said a number of former Eastern Europeans have been drawn to the restaurant. So far, noon is the busy time, with customers coming from offices and businesses around Windy Hill and Powers Ferry, along with residents of nearby communities.
The menu: Among the dozen signature savory crepes, there's a Reuben-style ($7.95) with pastrami, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese and 1000 island dressing and garlic grilled shrimp ($7.95) with grilled tomato and smoked Gouda cheese. Sweet crepes include Nuttela Bananas Foster ($4.50) with brown sugar, rum, cinnamon, pecans and whipped cream. Sides change daily but fries, mashed potatoes, grilled vegetables and coleslaw are standards.
The drinks: Wash it all down with Coca-Cola fountain drinks, coffee, hot and iced tea, plus a self-serve cooler filled with a variety of bottled juices and Vitamin Water.
The extras: Izba features weekly specials and offers free delivery in the area. The catering menu is aimed at office lunches and private parties, with a variety of platters, salads, soups, sandwiches and desserts.
Dining out
Izba Crepes and Grill, Marietta
10:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m., Monday through Friday; 11 a.m.-4 p.m., Saturdays. Closed Sundays.
Crepes, $4.50-$7.95; char-grilled chicken breast platter, $8.95; sides, $1.79-$1.95.
3000 Windy Hill Rd S.E. B-5, Marietta, 678-402-5574, www.izbacrepes.com
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