Three Stars for Revival, Kevin Gillespie's Southern Showcase

Creative Loafing's Jennifer Zyman reviews Revival, Kevin Gillespie's shrine to Southern cuisine. Zyman awards the Decatur restaurant at "very good" rating of three out of five stars and says it feels like home:

Revival's servers are so effusive and hospitable, I almost felt like a member of the family. Everyone seems happy to be there and that energy is contagious. Gillespie has trained his staff well — something restaurants often struggle with these days. When chefs achieve the type of fame Gillespie has through his restaurants, TV appearances, and cookbooks, their attention to quality control and day-to-day operations tend to take a backseat. But that's not the case at Revival. I was pleased to see an apron-clad Gillespie working in the kitchen one low-key Wednesday night many months after opening. Perhaps that personal touch is why people continue to flock to Gillespie's table and are so drawn to him as a chef. He gives all the damns and that kind of passion is magnetic.

Creative Loafing's Meagan Mastriani takes a first look at Gaja, Allen Suh's offbeat Korean restaurant in East Atlanta village. Mastriani says if you drop any preconceived notions, you'll have a good time:

The trio envisioned a place that felt like them, kids who grew up with traditional Korean families, but who were also immersed in American culture and played in punk bands and ate McDonald's. They say the inspiration came more from pojangmachas, street-side tents that serve up junk food perfect for drunken revelry, than typical sit-down establishments. ... For best results, approach Gaja with an open mind and an empty belly. Don't visit expecting to save a trip to Buford Highway. Don't expect anything at all. Just go along for the ride and have fun.

THE ELSEWHERE AND THE BLOGS: Atlanta Food Critic says Lure is a must-visit for a seafood dinner. Fried Chicken Lips braves a dinner at Kobe Steakhouse. Burgers, Barbecue and Everything Else thinks The Mercury will be known more for its cocktails than its food. Bella Vivere recommends The Stone Grill for Korean barbecue. Friday Date Night likes the food, but is displeased with the lack of beer list at Brooklyn Cafe.