Let’s be honest, is that New Year, new you diet really going to work out? Can we just go ahead and skip that part and instead, resolve to expand your mind and your palate this year? Experience what other cultures have to offer in the way of flavor without having to pull out the passport. Sandy Springs has a sampling of unique and authentic international dining options. Here are a few of our favorites:
6112 Roswell Road
Dive into an exploration of Persian food in the light and lofty atmosphere of Rumi’s Kitchen. They feature a variety of kabobs, all of which are amazing. Be sure to order the hummus and sample a selection off their extensive wine list. Then polish off the meal with the perfect sweet finish, the Persian Ice Cream Sandwich: vanilla ice cream with saffron, rose water, and pistachios between two vanilla wafers. Reservations are recommended as this place is very popular.
Emidio’s
8610 Roswell Road, Suite 950
For authentic Portuguese food, it helps to start with an owner/chef from Portugal. Hailing from the Island of Madeira, Chef Jose Sapeta has crafted a restaurant with an easy atmosphere and hearty, traditional menu. People rave over the Garlic Soup and the Shrimp in Garlic. Basically, if it’s got garlic in it, you can’t go wrong. Vegetarian options are also available and reservations are also encouraged.
6690 Roswell Road, Suite #2110
At Nori Nori, you’ll find a buffet stocked with a variety of traditional Japanese dishes. Don’t think overcooked, surprise meat kept warm under a heat lamp. No, instead think of a colorful plethora of fresh dishes bursting with flavor. Nori Nori offers Nigiri, Gunkan, and Maki style sushi along with traditional hot plate entrees. It’s an all-you-can-eat experience where quality takes top priority.
5920 Roswell Road, B-118
Sit back and relax as il Giallo takes you on a tour of Italy’s coast. Watch as fresh pasta is made from scratch before your eyes. And then, dive into old world flavor. We recommend the capesante: seared scallops, local carrots, honey braised endive, and grained mustard pan jus. And what would an Italian meal be without a glass of wine? Be sure to check out il Giallo’s many vino offerings.
5590 Roswell Road, #120
Fuego Mundo features South American cuisine with a health-conscious swing. This dining experience is completely dairy-free and certified Kosher with plenty of gluten-free and vegan options. Separate handling of meats and dedicated gluten-free fryers avoid cross contamination and enhance dining for conscientious guests. They don’t use any nut or corn oils, and the grills are fired by untreated, local, Georgia Oak wood. If you drop by, you’ve got to try the Uruguayan Grass Fed Ribeye marinated with house chimichurri. Or, if you’d like something with “salad” in the name, we recommend the OFF-the-Cob salad. It starts with a bed of field greens enhanced by corn cut straight off the cob, potato straws, a pineapple glaze and four house-made sauces. This can be ordered as a vegetarian meal, or you can top it off with chicken or steak. Also, they host a Shabbat dinner buffet every Friday starting at 12pm. Hurry because the food goes fast!