One of the newest additions to Roswell’s dynamic dining scene, Pico Autentico is a concept switch that typifies what’s been going on with restaurants all over metro Atlanta.
In January, chef/owner Andy Badgett decided to close Relish, his popular house of Southern-inspired cooking, and reinvent it as a budget-friendly Mexican hacienda. But fans of Relish and Badgett’s nearby lunch spot, the Fickle Pickle, will find reminders of both places at Pico Autentico.
The look: It's located in the old Roswell Funeral Home on Mimosa Boulevard, where an expansive side patio and stately front porch lead to an extended entrance hall and a cozy bar area. The meandering multi-room space is bathed in bright tropical colors and the walls are decorated with whimsical flying pigs and contemporary art light fixtures.
The scene: There was a spark of convivial energy in the crowded front dining room during a recent noontime visit, as busy servers scurried back and forth delivering chips and salsa to tables and booths filled with talkative coworkers and a few families.
The menu: Badgett's offerings go from freshly made salsas, guacamole and queso dip ($3-$7) to menu demarcated "gringo" favorites, such as nachos and quesadillas ($6-$10). But double-wrapped tacos in soft corn tortillas ($8.50-$10) and sandwiches on hefty Mexican bollios rolls ($7-$8) are the heart of the menu. And beloved Relish-style holdovers include cheese and chorizo fritters ($7) and Krispy Kreme bread pudding ($6).
The drinks: Mexican and light American lagers are it for the beer list. But the wine selections include Cava, Gerwurtz, Viognier, Albarino, Carmenere and Malbec. And beyond a variety of margaritas and mojitos, look for some creative cocktails, including the Chupacabra ($8), with cilantro-infused tequila, lychee-infused vodka, absinthe and agave nectar.
The extras: On Mondays, house margaritas are $3 and specialty margaritas are $5. Across the hall, you'll find All Y'alls Wine and Gourmet Market, with craft beer and specialty foods. Upstairs, the special event rooms are now known as Events@590, offering menus for all occasions, including some Relish dishes.
Dining out
Pico Autentico
11 a.m. -- 10 p.m. Mondays -- Thursdays; 10 a.m. -- 11 p.m. Fridays -- Saturdays; noon -- 9 p.m. Sundays.
Appetizers, $6 -- $11; plates, sandwiches and salads, $7 -- $13; desserts, $6.
590 Mimosa Boulevard, Roswell, www.picoautentico.com, 770-650-7877
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