A2 Rating Scale (out of 5):
THE BASICS:
WHAT: “Fish Camp & Oyster Bar” in the ATL
WHERE: Downtown Atlanta
WHEN: I’ve only been for dinner; but a weekday business and/or pleasure lunch here would score you some major brownie points. Oh, and $1 oyster HappyHour Mon.-Fri. 5-6PM & Sat.-Sun. 3-4PM.
THE DISH:
WHAT TO ORDER: The menu changes seasonally, but the quality does not. Even though I’ve only been twice, between my group, we tried a good portion on the menu each time… and ALL was divine ($$$). Not one thing I wouldn’t order again or recommend. With a revolving selection of more than 10 breeds of oysters at a time, you could go CRAZY and you should. If you happen to be there when the Clam Chowder or Hamachi is on the menu – go for it. And the cocktail program is pretty damn impressive as well; so cheers. And the desserts… OK I’m officially salivating at this point. In conclusion, order it all and worry about it later.
WHAT TO SKIP: Is this a serious question?
WHO TO BRING: Moms to mistresses. But you’ll want to go back, so no pirate hookers.
WHAT TO WEAR: On a hot date; work that mini and heels. With Grannie; pull out that over-sized knit. Coming straight from the office; leave that suit on (LOVE a man that can work a suit, especially one that screams I have a 401K and I vacation in the Hamptons). Dress for the occasion because with this scene you can get away with most of it.
WHERE TO SIT: Because I can’t go as often, I love to sit in the main dining room, as it’s spacious and you can look into the open kitchen. I love a place where I can eye multiple dishes before the most stressful part of the night occurs: ordering time. If I was a local, I would probably be a regular at either the raw bar and bar-bar and save the tables for occasions.
PLAY-TIME: Start or end the night with a round of mini-golf on the 2-hole put-put course out front. I opt for the latter, as I need a little liquid courage to challenge my opponents and talk some shit.
EDDR LIFE LESSON: Stick to what you know. This place makes me happy, so even though I know Atlanta has an amazing food scene to explore, I know that I will leave a happy camper and that is enough to make my visit complete.
A2 FINAL THOUGHT: The Optimist is an all-time favorite of mine; a trip to the ATL just wouldn’t be right without a meal at this spot where seafood meets southern charm.
Optimistically waiting ‘til next time,
Alex
eat.drink.dish.repeat. 