One of Buckhead’s best-kept secrets opened in August in Phipps Plaza. Grand Lux Cafe is from the same people that brought us the Cheesecake Factory.
The new restaurant comes on strong with hipness, contemporary decor and an atmosphere that’s a lot more relaxed.
The eatery clear caters to the upwardly mobile and affluent, something that was clearly evident in the day AtlantaFi sampled a few items on the menu.
Grand Lux Cafe opens in Buckhead
The restaurant borrows heavily from the grandeur and luxury of European cafes, including French bistros and Italian pastry shops, but with the contemporary sensibilities inherent in the American dining experience.
Grand Lux Cafe first opened in Las Vegas at the famed Venetian Resort, Hotel and Casino, and was such a hit that the parent company sought to expand the idea. Now, there are Grand Lux Cafes in eight states, including Florida, Texas, New Jersey and New York.
When I visited, for starters I tried the Chicken Lettuce Wraps, which includes minced Sauteed Chicken Breast and Vegetables in a Delicious Asian Sauce. Served with Cool Lettuce Wraps.
The lettuce was crispy-fresh and served as a fitting shell for a heaping of shredded chicken laced with Asian sauce.
For my entree, I went with the Stacked Chicken Quesadilla, which features tortillas Layered with Melted Cheese, Chicken, Tomato, Black Beans and Green Chiles. Served with Sour Cream and Salsa. It was heavenly.
The help was exceptional. Each waiter or waitress tended to my needs as they were evident.
As for the beverage program, was okay. I had a Moscow Mule that was on point. But a margarita was on the weak side. I’m sure it was just a hiccup.
Grand Lux Cafe is open 11:30 a.m. to 11 p.m. Monday through Thursdays. On weekends, the hours are 10 a.m. to midnight (11 p.m. on Sundays). Weekend Brunch is on Saturdays and Sundays 10:00AM – 2:00PM.
The Atlanta restaurants scene is booming. The city’s suburban outposts, including places like Brookhaven, Sandy Springs, Johns Creek and Alpharetta are all experiencing a restaurant rebirth as developers look to branch out beyond Atlanta’s core. There is also a generous scattering of burger joints, coffee shops and more around the Perimeter. Atlanta restaurants can be found in each quadrant of the city, trading on their respective environments to offer something truly unique to the community.