The Union Restaurant: stop in for a groovy time
Published: Mar 12, 2009
Inspired by wood paneling and bold geometric patterns? Hungry for something a little different but not too far out? Try the Union Restaurant in Milton: The place is groovy, baby!
The small restaraurant off of Providence Road in Milton, about 50 minutes north of downtown Atlanta, is not what you might expect from an old country road that's s now lined with million-dollar neighborhoods in one of the city's chicest suburbs.
But the brand new Craftsman-style building, with its classic architecture and wraparound porch, barely hints at the retro décor and comfort food available inside. Still, the two style ideals seem to intertwine flawlessly. The interior, for all its 1970s love, doesn't come off as awkward or cheesy, but as fun and beautifully comfortable.
What will make you smile (even more than the circular cement wine racks and oversized lampshades edged in fringe) is the food itself. Prepare your palate for familiar flavors served up in new and unexpected ways.
It might be appropriate to start with a glass of Tang or Ovaltine, both are offered on the beverage list as a wink to children of the '70s. They're a sure sign that ,while your meal's execution will be deliciously flawless, the Union doesn't take itself too seriously.
Fried calamari with basil aioli or the toasted pimento cheese sandwiches with Chunky Chix Pea Tappenade -- the tapenade being the Union's take on hummus -- are just of the few of the appetizers offered. But save room for the main course because portions are as big as 70s hair.
Maybe you're in the mood for a Good Burger (just what the name implies), or the Elvis (shrimp and cheddar grits), or even the Spicy "Free Love" Stirfry. Don't forget to add a side like Jalapeño Mac & Cheese, Fingerling Potatoes or Carmelized Cauliflower. And to top it all off the Coffee & Doughnuts (homemade doughnuts served with espresso ice cream) is a crowd pleaser.
Leave the bell bottoms at home, but don't forget to bring cash to tip the valet.
- by Christine Foster, Atlanta Reporter for HelloMetro
(Click to leave a message)
