SWANKY SUSHI- Steel Restaurant & Lounge Review

STEEL RESTAURANT & LOUNGE

950 West Peachtree St, Suite 255

404-477-6111

www.steelatlanta.com

 

If food prices were based solely on style, this swanky Indochine restaurant in the Plaza Midtown would be among the most expensive in Atlanta. The décor practically reeks of class, from the warm teak wood surroundings and eye-catching water wall behind the bar to lighting designed like sleek skyscrapers and eye-catching modern art by Shane Pennington. Fortunately, despite their slick approach, Steel’s prices prove surprisingly budget-friendly, averaging around $15 per person for lunch and $30 for dinner.

 

Sushi Chef Johnny Chu offers a range of rolls sure to tempt even the most devout nigiri nuts. From the tangy tartness of the Japanese Ceviche Roll (with chopped octopus, squid, shrimp, crab and red clam) to the feisty kick of the Firecracker Roll (spicy tuna with avocado, crab and jalapenos), Chu shows surprising creativity for a place where sushi isn’t the main focus.

 

Meanwhile, Executive Chef Christopher Maher’s menu draws from a variety of traditional Asian influences (including Chinese, Japanese, Korean and Vietnamese), infusing them with decidedly modern flourishes. The simple Beef and Chicken Hot Rocks allows diners to cook their own meats right at the table, while Crabmeat Mango Spring Rolls put a refreshing tropical twist on the classic appetizer. From the delectable simplicity of Combination Fried Rice (rich with the flavors of beef, chicken, shrimp and spices) and the sweet tang of Mandarin Orange Chicken to signature entrees such as melt-in-your-mouth Chilean Sea Bass, Steel ultimately proves miles above your typical Asian restaurant.

 

And with an amazing wine selection, delicious cocktails such as the Blackberry Mojito and Lychee-tini,  and delectable desserts such as the Chocolate Maki Roll and Banana Egg Roll, it also proves a tempting spot in which to lounge away an entire evening. –BRET LOVE

BEST OF BOTH WORLDS- Room at TWELVE Review

ROOM AT TWELVE CENTENNIAL PARK

400 West Peachtree Street, Atlanta, GA 30308

404-418-1250

www.roomattwelve.com.

 

Part of an official partnership between Bob Amick and Todd Cushing’s Concentrics Hospitality and Atlanta-based developer Novare Group to develop chef-driven restaurants in all TWELVE Hotels & Residences throughout the Southeast, Room at TWELVE followed Atlantic Station’s Lobby at TWELVE as the second fruit of the companies’ joint labors. Opened in September 2007, the modern steakhouse/sushi bar is situated on the building’s ground floor, offering residents and hotel guests alike a casually elegant gathering place before and after visiting the surrounding downtown area.

 

Designed by Thom Williams and ASD Architects, the interior reeks of class, from the black walls and steel and platinum accents to the red curtains above the bar and rich hardwoods surrounding the sushi bar. The open kitchen allows guests to watch the action as the attentive staff rushes to ensure your every need is met promptly, while three small rooms and a striking 8^th floor banquet facility provide space for private functions.

 

The menu comes courtesy of two celebrated chefs; Executive Chef Nick Oltarsh, who was named StarChefs 2007 Atlanta Rising Star Hotel Chef, and sushi chef Tomo, whose self-named restaurant has emerged as a Vinings hotspot. The only downside is having to choose between the former’s hearty steakhouse fare (including grilled House Steak with rosemary new potatoes and red wine sauce, and deliciously seasoned whole Maine lobster) and the latter’s original sushi rolls. Our suggestion? Order one of each and share. – BRET LOVE