Natalie Bianca - Review - Cascade - Atlanta - The Infatuation
"Natalie Bianca in Cascade Heights is a solid choice for a stylish yet laid-back dinner that works well for choosy eaters and tight budgets. The menu successfully blends Southern and Mexican flavors, with standout dishes like crispy fried green tomatoes and hearty black bean crepes. And the fusion doesn’t really stop there since Natalie has an all-encompassing, something-for-everyone menu. Think: gooey grilled cheese sandwiches for kids and the must-try shrimp pasta with a creamy tomato sauce. Plus, all entrees (all under $30) come with a generously portioned house salad and sourdough bread, so it’s price friendly, too. Located in the former La Panarda space, the restaurant adds a few new touches—swapping the booths for tables and chairs and including a black-and-white photo of the restaurant’s namesake, who was a long-time friend of the owner. (He’s done the same with his restaurant Kitty Dare in Inman Park). We never got a chance to know Natalie Bianca, but the warm and inviting vibe here speaks volumes to her memory. Food Rundown Crab Cakes There’s no over-breaded, way-too-glutenous binding agent in these things. The golden-brown crab cakes break apart easily, revealing chunks of sweet crab meat inside. The outside is lightly crisp, while the inside stays moist. Miss Natalie’s Shrimp Pasta This pasta comes out steaming in a creamy tomato sauce that’s tangy with a hint of sweetness. Adobo Salmon Fork-tender salmon has a nice char on top. It’s cushioned on a bed of fluffy rice, kale, and roasted pineapple salsa. Fried Green Tomatoes The standout thing about this dish is the crispy, well-seasoned breading. It stays put when you bite into it, with a satisfying crunch." - Jacinta Howard
