Illegal Food is back in business. The team behind the former Joystick Gamebar pop-up is opening its first full-service restaurant tonight in the old Bar Meatball space in Virginia-Highland. In addition to the regular burger menu, featuring The Hank, one of Atlanta's favorites, there is an ever-changing list of weekly specials from chef/co-owner Steven Lingenfelter.
Each week, Lingenfelter receives at least a half-cow from Brasstown Beef, which he butchers, leaving minimal waste, to create the burgers and specials. Think of dishes such as beef tartare, steaks, charcuterie, and oxtail. Vegetables and desserts, such as banana pudding ice cream, will come out of the kitchen as well. Behind the bar, look for wine, craft beer in cans and bottles and on draft, and some playful cocktails like the $25 Martini, which is simply a glass of Monkey 47 Gin and actually costs $25.
Illegal Food, located at 1044 Greenwood Avenue, is open for dinner Thursday through Saturday from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m. Get a preview via the above gallery and menu below.