🍽️ Good Food, But Service Needs Improvement ⚠️

We recently visited this highly-touted fusion restaurant blending Asian flavors with Southern comfort – and while the food showed creative promise, the inconsistent service left us wanting more. Here’s a detailed breakdown of our experience: 🏠 First Impressions & Ambiance We were warmly greeted upon arrival and seated near the entrance to accommodate our friends who hadn’t yet arrived – a kind and practical gesture. The interior is stylish and inviting: A spacious central bar anchors the dining room 🥃 Warm wood paneling and soft lighting create a relaxed yet refined vibe 🪔 Layout encourages conversation while maintaining an upscale feel 🍞 Starters & Small Bites The Bread Basket – $9 for 6 pieces 💸 A bit pricey, but a pleasant way to begin the meal: Cornbread: Crispy outside, tender inside with a hint of honey – the star! 🌽🍯 Focaccia & Sweet Potato Biscuits: Well-made though less memorable Complimentary Mini Tacos 🌮 An unexpected amuse-bouche from the kitchen – tasty, though we couldn’t quite identify the filling (and our server didn’t explain). 🍗 Main Courses – Hits & Misses Southern Brined Fried Chicken 🐔 Generous portion (3 large pieces) Crispy coating, juicy inside Lacked distinctive seasoning or standout flavor Wood-Grilled Short Rib 🔥 Our favorite! Tender, falling-off-the-bone perfection Rich, complex sauce – far beyond typical barbecue We could have easily eaten more! Oxtail with Hoisin Glaze 🐂 The priciest dish of the evening Meat-rich and flavorful – my daughter loved it Well-executed fusion concept 👨‍🍳 Service Breakdown Here’s where things faltered: ✅ Initial service: Attentive and friendly ❌ After mains arrived: Our original server disappeared ❌ Bartender stepped in: Clearly stretched thin between bar and tables ❌ Long waits to clear plates and request leftovers box ❌ Eventually skipped dessert due to frustration For a restaurant with Michelin aspirations and these price points, we expected: Consistent table presence 👥 Smoother transitions between courses ⏱️ Better communication about service changes 💬 💰 Value & Final Thoughts The food shows real talent – particularly the short rib and cornbread. The fusion concept works when executed with this much care. However, service inconsistencies undermined the experience. At this level, details matter – from explaining dishes to timing courses seamlessly. #HonestReview #UpscaleDining #FoodieReview #ServiceImprovement #AtlantaEats