Anna G.
Yelp
What do you say about Atlas Eats that hasn't already been said? I'm not sure if my review will add on to the wonderful experience that is going to Atlas. But I'll try anyway.
Atlas Eats is tucked away in a small building on N. Clinton, right over the Irondequoit border. It's really easy to go right past it if you don't know what you're looking for. Luckily, if you're going to Atlas, you're definitely headed that way for a reason. Park in the back and head inside for one of the best restaurant experiences you've ever had.
I give full credit to Mel B. for introducing me to Edible Atlas, the rotating dinner series that transports you around the world in five courses. My first trip took me to Israel and the Middle East and I was hooked from the first bite. Other favorites include farm to table tapas, Spain and Morocco, and the ever-popular Italy. By the end of each dinner, I can't decide on just one favorite. The first course is usually an appetizer, second is soup or salad, third is typically a grain, fourth is the main course (meat or fish), and finally, the fifth course is dessert. You'd think that it would be hard to eat five courses in one seating, but as long as you pace yourself, you won't have any issues. Always keep in mind that you need to save room for dessert here!
Recently I was able to come for lunch, so I finally feel as though I can really review Atlas Eats in a complete sense. I highly recommend the lentil and quinoa burger, which comes with tzatziki and may as well have been created especially for me, that's how amazing it is. It's really wonderful to experience Atlas during the daytime, there's so much light in the dining area and you definitely can't drive past the restaurant as easily as you could at night.
Finally, there's the bakeshop. Just do it. What more can I say? I recommend the linzertorte in particular. If you're too full after lunch, or want to extend the dinner experience, grab something to take home. You'll be happy you did.
Something to note: I often have to skip Edible Atlas because the menu includes pork or shellfish in a way that I can't replace it. While this is better for my wallet, I still want to try everything! The staff is really good about leaving the pork off one dish if you call ahead and ask, for example. However, I only do this when it doesn't change the tone of the entire dish. If the fourth course is pork, I skip the menu entirely. The customer service is outstanding. You can always tell that the owners care deeply about the food and the experience. Not every place can say that!
It's hard to describe Atlas Eats in a way that is new and original. But when you think about it, do you really need to come up with anything new? Rochester is so lucky to have Atlas Eats, and I want to take them with me wherever I go.