Le Colonial Atlanta — Restaurant in Atlanta

We had an extremely disappointing and frustrating experience here last night. While some of the food was incredible, the vast majority of our experience was less than stellar. On a positive note, the beet salad and green papaya salad were phenomenal, two of the best salads we've ever had. The duck and shaking beef were also tasty and highlights. Unfortunately, that's where the positive feedback ends, especially since a dining experience is much more than just food. First, the restaurant was at least 90 degrees, and everyone in our party was extremely uncomfortable due to the heat. We even asked our waitress if there was something wrong with the A/C or if it could be adjusted because it was sweltering. We also heard other diners complaining including one that was taking regular trips to the restroom to cool off. Second, we ordered a martini and we got a watered down, luke warm, tasteless drink that had to be sent back. Instead of remaking it, they told us they put it back in the shaker, so when we got it the second time it was even more watered down. We ended up asking for olive juice and vermouth and literally remade the drink at the table. Third, the service was very meh... Not bad, just not up to par for a high end restaurant, including the waitress spilling part of a drink on the pants of someone in our party. Fourth, several of the main dishes were completely tasteless. The chicken curry had absolutely no flavor, except for some mild heat. The shrimp stir fry was awful -- had no taste at all, the vegetables were undercooked, the shrimp tasted unseasoned and frozen. The $40 stir fry went completely uneaten yet our waitress didn't ask why no one ate it. The appetizer pot stickers and spring rolls were no better than any other Asian restaurant, just 3x the price. Literally every one of our main dishes tasted like it was missing ingredients. While I can understand how someone that's never eaten Vietnamese food can rate this restaurant highly, it's below average compared to many other places I've been that are significantly lower priced. Overall, it was a disappointment and we will not be going back. After spending over $150 per person, I feel cheated as the experience here wasn't worth a third of that. I mean, fundamentally, for that price you figure they could afford some air conditioning and a bartender that knows how to make a basic martini. If you want authentic Vietnamese, go somewhere else. This place was a huge disappointment. You know you're in an Instagram restaurant when they need to put sparklers in the desserts, probably to distract diners from the underwhelming taste of the food. Bottom Line -- another overrated, overpriced Buckhead dining experience that left me and everyone at our table underwhelmed... And...

Tucked away in the heart of Buckhead Village lies a hidden gem that seamlessly melds French sophistication with Vietnamese charm – Le Colonial. From the moment you step through its doors, you're transported to a world where elegance meets innovation, and every bite tells a story of culinary mastery.

Our dining journey at Le Colonial began with the Cha Gio Chay, a delightful starter that promised a symphony of flavors. Our server recommended the Crispy Vegetable Roll, filled with Taro Root, Bean Threads, Lettuce, and Aromatic Herbs, and it did not disappoint. It was a tantalizing introduction to the evening. The accompanying Tamarind Sauce provided a perfect balance of sweet and tangy notes, elevating the dish to new heights.

For our second course we went with the Sup Ga Cay, aka Spicy Chicken Soup. It's a delightful take on the traditional lemon grass coconut soup I'm accustomed to ordering at Vietnamese restaurants. Their version delivered a punch of flavor with every spoonful. The Lemongrass Poached Prestige Farm Chicken Breast was tender and succulent, while the Qihe Farm Shiitake Mushrooms added a depth of earthy richness. Paired with a Spicy Coconut Broth, this soup was a comforting yet invigorating interlude to our meal.

As we ventured into our culinary exploration, we were presented with the pièce de résistance – the Vit Quay. The Roasted Half Duck was a masterpiece of flavors and textures. The Organic Tea Cured Hudson Valley Duck was impeccably cooked, boasting a crispy skin that gave way to tender, juicy meat. The accompanying Mushroom Sticky Rice and Tamarind Ginger Sauce provided a harmonious accompaniment, while the Pickles added a refreshing contrast to the richness of the dish.

To culminate our dining experience on a sweet note, we indulged in the table-side flambeed Warm Chocolate Cake. Prepared with Valrhona Cocoa and accompanied by a generous scoop of Vanilla Ice Cream, this decadent dessert was a showstopper. The Flambée of Orange Liquor added a touch of sophistication and theatrics, perfectly complementing the rich chocolatey goodness.

Throughout our meal, the service at Le Colonial was impeccable, with attentive staff guiding us through each course with grace and professionalism. The ambiance exuded an air of timeless elegance, with its dimly lit interiors and subtle hints of colonial charm.

Whether you're seeking a romantic dinner for two or a celebratory feast with friends, Le Colonial is sure to leave a lasting impression on even the most...

I’ve been going to this place for about 3 years now, somehow I missed leaving a review, here it is 😀

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Entrance They have a private elevator, but unfortunately it breaks down a lot, but when it works it’s really nice.

The hostess greeters are pleasant enough…

The ambiance is inviting, soft lighting, white table cloth, real flowers on the table, very nice touch.

They have a wonderful veranda with lots of open windows where you feel the beautiful breeze from outside and can hear the hustle and bustle of the city down below. They also have heaters when it’s a little cooler you can still enjoy the outdoor weather, which is perfect during these crazy Covid times.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Service (wait staff) Of all the times that I have come here I have never once had bad service, the wait staff is extremely knowledgeable, extremely professional, and they go above and beyond to make your experience the best.

They are very allergy friendly and will go out of their way to make sure your dish is prepared in a way where it doesn’t put you at risk.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ The Food I would give them 10 stars if I could for the food, it is exceptionally unique but not crazy. It is your taste buds on steroids! Every dish is prepared with the ultimate care and the presentation artistic, a work of art.

This is a great spot for those of us that have a dairy allergy as only two dishes on the menu contain dairy and if you choose so, you can skip it and they can substitute to make it dairy free. And just because every dish is not full of cheese and butter and cream believe me you’re not missing anything it is exception al!!

⭐️⭐️⭐️ Value The prices are quite high, but in my opinion because the food is so good, we’ll prepared & service is exceptional, it’s worth it! If it’s out of your budget, go enjoy one drink each and a couple of appetizers, you won’t be disappointed.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Bathroom and cleanliness The bathroom is beautiful & elegant. I gave them 4 stars because they don’t have a shelf or anything to set you clutch, hooks are great but won’t work. Also they don’t have a full length mirror, a must for an establishment like this, not to mention they are missing an opportunity for all the bathroom selfies lol

The restaurant is tidy and organized.

All on all, a wonderful spot to stop in, I love taking lunch meetings here. Evenings are array too, a little pretentious for me, but I still had...