John Kessler Gives Makan Zero Stars

Over at the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, John Kessler gives Makan a "fair" rating of zero stars. Kessler says that while the menu has some highlights, like the pork belly buns and whole wok-fried bronzini, the construction of the Decatur pan-Asian restaurant's concept leads to confusion:

Chef-owner George Yu — who was raised in his family's Chinese restaurant business and has worked in upscale restaurants such as Midtown's Ecco — knows his stuff and buys the best local meats and vegetables. He has no shortage of interesting ideas about Asian-American cooking in the 21st century, and some tasty flavors will emerge from his kitchen. Yet, the pieces rarely fit together in a way that makes dining sense. This is an appealing restaurant to consider, but a hard one to use.

Creative Loafing's Stephanie Dazey takes a first look at Mamak Malaysian Kitchen, which recently opened on Buford Highway, and Brookwood Hills fast-casual eatery Gusto! Wood Fire Grill. Dazey finds a lot to like in Mamak, and a solid health-food option in Gusto:

It's hard to pinpoint the worst bite of an evening when all the dishes ranged from good to great. That night, the kitchen ran through its supply of coveted Hainanese chicken by the time we arrived, but judging by the table full of dishes we did try at Mamak, that ought to be stellar, too. ... While it doesn't redefine modern gastronomy as we know it, Gusto's health-conscious, quick-fix food is a welcome addition for anyone already loyal to places like Fresh to Order, Chipotle, and Metro Fresh.

Atlanta INtown's Art Huckabee reviews Sun In My Belly and finds some hits to go with some misses:

For entrees, we ordered the fried chicken, the meatloaf and the Fez burger. The chicken was hot and crispy; the meat moist and tender. The accompanying mac ‘n cheese had a smoky Gouda taste and the mojo collard greens were spicy but a bit too vinegary. The meatloaf with tomato jam had good flavor but was dry as if it had lingered under a heat lamp. The accompanying Parmesan mashed potatoes affirmed my hunch as they had the consistency of spackling compound.

THE ELSEWHERE AND THE BLOGS: Hot Dish Review says The Luminary shines at Krog Street Market. Bella Vivere determines The Shed at Glenwood is the place to dine with friends and family. Friday Date Night finds tasty food and good service at Brookwood Grill. Fried Chicken Lips vouches for the new Arepa Mia location in Decatur. Atlanta Restaurant Blog says Cooks & Soldiers is a fine addition to the Westside Dining Scene. Burgers, Barbecue and Everything Else plans on returning to Ladybird Grove & Mess Hall. Hunger Pangs in Atlanta celebrates the food at BoccaLupo.