In late July 2018, a Mexican restaurant opened in the freshly minted Beacon business development located in Grant Park.
Patria Cocina prides itself in serving what it calls comfort food, and that’s just how you feel after one of their delicious dishes.
For those keeping score, Patria Cocina comes to us from the owners of El Mexicano, which used to be the place to go on Moreland Avenue. Run by the Aguirre family, Patria Cocina has a handsome patio that looks out on the front side of the Beacon development, which is Grant Park’s answer to Krog Street Market as well as Ponce City Market.
When I visited Patria Cocina, the place was not busy and easily accommodated me. Although I almost went with fish tacos, I decided to try the enchiladas. Covered in green sauce, the enchiladas were so good and soft, they seemingly melted in my mouth.
Instead of refried beans, I went with black beans, which was a good choice. They had shredded cheese sprinkled on top of them, giving the black beans two contrasting flavors that melded together perfectly.
Other menu favorites are Torta a la Mexicana and Guiso Mexicano, which will fill you up no doubt.
Beacon is a $20 million development that refurbished a series of warehouses in a sleepy corner of Grant Park. Thanks to Patria Cocina, the area is waking up.
When it comes to restaurants, Atlanta is quickly gaining ground on some of the dining capitals around the United States.
Fast-casual is the dining trend du jour around metro Atlanta restaurants. The concept involves mixing the quick accessibility of fast food with the casual dining experience. Food in Atlanta is also adapting to the various tastes of the migrants that come here to live.
Read more: 5 essential soul food spots in Atlanta
Patrons typically order off a menu board like they would at a burger joint, but the convenience of sitting down to leisurely enjoy their food has made the segment a popular one with the restaurant industry.
The craze hasn’t escaped metro Atlanta’s food and drink scene, which has seen a fast-caz explosion in recent years.