Creative Loafing's Brad Kaplan takes a first look at Revival, Kevin Gillespie's Southern shrine in Decatur. Kaplan says the restaurant's regional entrees are good, but notes a shaky beverage service:
The fried chicken, three pieces for $13, is likely to become Revival's most popular item. Gillespie pointed out that this recipe, which he's guarding closely, is not among his family hand-me-downs. It's clearly a well-seasoned wet batter, which makes its way into the nooks and crannies of the meat. But the most unique note I picked up was an earthy, meatiness reminiscent of fried chicken livers (in a good way). ... Drinking at Revival, as at any family meal, can be an iffy proposition. Having two punches on the menu is great, but the flat-tasting Chatham Artillery Punch ($8) lacked the drink's usual effervescence. The too-sweet rum-based Martinez Phosphate ($11) bore no resemblance at all to a traditional gin-based Martinez.
THE ELSEWHERE AND THE BLOGS: Atlanta Restaurant Blog says White Oak Kitchen is a perfect spot for out-of-town guests who might be Downtown. Atlanta Food Critic has a hard time imagining better barbecue than the fare at Memphis BBQ Company. Bella Vivere highly recommends Cooks & Soldiers. Fried Chicken Lips says Yami Sushi is middling at best.