Chef Kevin Gillespie’s Woodfire Grill

I had the opportunity to visit Chef Kevin Gillespie’s (of Top Chef fame) Woodfire Grill in Atlanta, GA for the second time. I had a vague memory of how good it was the first time, but couldn’t even imagine the treat I was in for on trip #2. We ventured out in a terrible summer storm looking for a great meal, and we sure found one. They wouldn’t seat us until the entire party arrived – we were soaked and ready for a drink – luckily they did offer us a spot at the bar while we waited.

On this trip, we all ordered the five-course tasting menu and it was amazing. The staff was exceptional and service superb. The first thing our server did was ask about food allergies – since I’m allergic to Tomato, this was a great starting point. How refreshing not to have to explain that yes – ketchup does have tomato in it! Our server was familiar with the beer and wine list – a great hit with my fellow diners – and made some great recommendations.

It’s a little noisy inside, but overall a great atmosphere and well designed.

Here is the menu we enjoyed on this trip:
Amuse
Anson mills faro piccolo with cucumber, red onion and parsley

First Course
Alaskan King Salmon tartare, fresh peach, avocado and pickled jalapeno with a ginger vinaigrette (Salmon, my favorite! Great start. I loved this.)

Second Course
Pan roasted Carolina trout, brown butter sauce, sweet corn, peach and green garlic relish with smoked corn puree (Yum, I could have had a full plate of this!)

Taste
Watermelon with peach, cilantro and lime aqua Fresca (this was very interesting….reminded me of some Eye Openers created for Le Meridien by Jean-Georges…buy way better!!)

Third Course
Chaat Masala Spiced local quail, marinated baby beets, spiced carrots and medjool date puree (delish!!)

Fourth Course
Wood oven roasted asparagus over oyster mushrooms and creamed beet greens (this was a substitution becuase the original course had tomato – bummer I got this option – but somtimes you have to suffer with an allergy!)

Dessert
Chocolate mousse, almond Bavarian cream, cherry Chantilly, almond tuile and almond cherry puree (OMG! This was amazing! So glad we got the tasting menu and ended with an amzing dessert)

Wow, that’s about all I can say. There aren’t really words to explain the food, it was just that great. The experience was fantastic and the food was exceptional. I would highly recommend a vist to Woodfire Grill in Altanta for any special occasion. You will not be disappointed. I can’t wait for another visit!