One of the most common dishes in America, the humble French fry, is finally getting its due.
Atlanta chefs are looking at the deep-fried potato with new eyes, and promoting it from side dish to main star.
Here are few options for the die-hard french fry lover in Atlanta:
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887 Howell Mill Rd NW, Atlanta
What does one of the best burgers in Atlanta need to be complete? A perfect side of fries. Bocado's version of the dish is tossed with a very healthy dose of garlic and fresh parsley, along with an herbed butter. They are fried crispy and hold up to the flavor punch. You'll be forgiven for ignoring everything else on the plate.
4199 Paces Ferry Rd SE, Atlanta
Truffle fries have become so commonplace on menus that it's easy to dismiss them. Don't make that mistake with Canoe's version. They are cut by hand a little thicker than normal, and tossed with fresh rosemary and large flecks of salty parmesan. The light drizzle of truffle oil is added with restraint, and creates a wonderful depth of flavor. These are what truffle fries should be.
Multiple locations
One of the best bets for late night dining would have to have fries, right? Alongside a menu of chili-smothered sausages and red velvet milkshakes sits these deep-fried potatoes. They are cut into thick wedges, aptly called wedgies, lightly seasoned with crispy exteriors and fluffy, steamy insides. Order a side of Wild Heaven cheese sauce for dipping, and you'll go to bed with a smile.
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Credit: Becky Stein
Credit: Becky Stein
99 Krog St. NE, Atlanta
This humble Krog Street Market stand is cooking up not just one great version, but an entire fry menu that is full of fried goodness. There are five versions with four different dipping options. Feeling like some low country boil? Their Old Bay fries with tartar sauce will hit the spot. Or try the garlic fries that are thick–cut and specked with chunks of fresh garlic and served with ranch. Pair any with their juicy burger stack.
Multiple locations
With an obsession for throwback décor, it's no surprise that Grindhouse serves up some throwback food. Their fries are crinkle cut and bring back the nostalgia of a classic cafeteria, but without the hair nets and soggy fare. No, these are crispy and hot. The ridges are perfect for holding bright, crimson ketchup or thick, meaty chili.
1341 Collier Rd NW, Atlanta
Tacos are awesome. So is Korean food. So, it was a mad genius that combined the two and opened Hankook Taqueria. It’s a simple spot, serving up tacos filled with bulgogi and kimchi. And on the side: fries tossed in sesame oil and red chili flake. They’re spicy with a deep toasted flavor—a wonderful bridge between the diverse flavors on the menu.
131 E Ponce de Leon Ave, Decatur
Sometimes, one just needs a bucket full of fries. When that need hits, immediately head to Leon's Full Service in Decatur. The fries are hand-cut, crispy, and everything that a great French fry should be. What really sets Leon's apart is the array of dipping sauces that come with the bucket. There are more than 10 options, ranging from chipotle ketchup, to goat cheese fondue and a smoked mayonnaise.
240 M.L.K. Jr Dr SE, Atlanta
This Grant Park gem is a lesson in the adage "Never judge a book by its cover." It's a cinder block of a building and houses food that has hit cult-like status, especially among Atlanta chefs. The gyro is what gets all the good press, but don't look past the Greek-style fries. The thick potato wedges are fried golden brown and tossed with lemon juice and fresh oregano. The tzatziki sauce on the side is addictive.
1156 Euclid Ave NE, Atlanta
Contrary to their name, most peg Belgium as the nation of origin for French fries. The Porter, one of the best beer bars in the nation, pays homage to both Belgian brew and their famous fries. The Little Five spot serves theirs tossed in a garlicky oil that has been further infused with fresh herbs. They are finished with even more garlic and herbs and served with a charred onion mayo.
211 E Trinity Pl, Decatur
Atlanta is awash in versions of poutine. With Twain's pub snack-focused menu, chef Ryan Burke adds his version to the list. And why not? It is the perfect side for a brewpub. Crispy fries are covered with pork gravy, cheese curds, house-made pickled mustard seeds and a sunny egg. It may not be traditional, but it sure is good.
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