FOODIE IN FLIP FLOPS

Every time I go to Jerusalem Bakery I feel like I have died and gone to Baklava heaven. This is seriously the best Baklava in the city. This Marietta dive takes it to a whole other level.    Jerusalem Bakery primarily makes Baklava but they also have other various guest starring items. They make several varieties of Baklava, some with cashew, some with pistachio or walnuts. They also make different sizes, little mini's, rolled log, diamonds, etc. But rest assured, every type will have that delicate, flaky phyllo crunch followed by the nutty taste, then ending with the sweetness of honey. Definitely not Paleo, but what a treat and worth every bite! There is the box full of goodness. I love going there and telling them to load the container up, to pick what they want. They always add a fun new treat to try. They also bake fresh whole wheat and white pita bread daily. I guess I can't just eat Baklava for my lunch without my pancreas hati...

I love going to an international restaurant and hearing the native language being spoken all around me. That is totally the case at Minas Emporium. It is tucked away in a strip mall underneath a liquor store on Delk Road in Marietta but don't let that fool you, the food is wonderful.  Basically, it is a buffet of Brazilian goodies. They have plenty of items pre-made displayed for you to try. They also have the Brazilian BBQ going and this is where it's at!!!  The guy tending to the meats is very helpful and asks you what type of meat you like; lean, salty, or what kind of meat. You can go up as many times as you like, so it is a great way to try everything. They also had plantains on the buffet that were delicious.  The sauteed okra was delicious too. I also tried the bacon wrapped chicken and you know how anything with bacon tastes so I won't bother to tell you how it was! The grilled rump roast and sun-dried steak were my two favo...

Fall is a great time of year in Atlanta. We have been enjoying this gorgeous fall, crisp air. We also thought the leaves would be changing and could enjoy seeing the foliage and view of Atlanta from the top of Kennesaw Mountain. We were a little early but still got to witness an awesome view of the city. After our hike we decided to stop in at The Local for lunch, it is located on the south side of the Marietta Square. The Local had been calling my name for a while and it was time to try.  Luke ordered the Fried Chicken Sandwich. He's not normally a fried chicken fan, however The Local had won the Taste of Marietta Award for best Fried Chicken and wanted to try the sandwich. It was good, fresh, hot and crispy with good flavor. The braised green beans were good too and a nice change up from your regular side item. My friend Susan had the special of the day, turkey reuben. She liked it but preferred it the traditional way on rye bread bu...

The Butcher, The Baker and me . . . because I wanted to move in after visiting this cozy, delicious eatery. They designed the inside as an industrial farmhouse, the farmhouse influence makes it cozy while the industrial touches keep it modern. They have an inviting bar that would be a ideal spot to find yourself if dining alone. Also, like many eateries on the square there are tables out front and doggies are very welcome. We went there to celebrate my friend Susan's birthday. We had wonderful service and the server bought my friend a drink for her birthday. Susan ordered the octopus which had a smoky grilled flavor, and was cooked perfectly tender. It was served on a bed of local in season greens.  I ordered the "fried lamb", translation lamb testes. I have never tried that before so figured I would despite the batter not being Paleo friendly. The lamb balls were tender, yes I said tender and not gamey. It was good, but honestly when a ...

An independent coffee shop where they roast their own beans and paw prints leading the way (notice the steps) will lure me in everytime. My husband, Luke and I are huge coffee drinkers and love to try different places. I frequently visit coffee shops and Cool Beans is high in the rotation. Great coffee, usually two choices on drip. I have never had a bad cup of joe here, my only complaint is I wish they would offer organic coffee. They do have organic teas. Great vibe in the shop, it always has energy but never too crowded that you can't find a seat. One of my favorites things about Coffee Beans is they are dog friendly. I don't just mean outside in the back on their awesome patio, your four legged friends are allowed inside. Our three Boston Terrier pups love hanging on the patio and the trees provide nice shade for them. I tried a gluten-free chocolate chip cookie. Healthier than your average cookie with garbanzo bean and tapioca flour fo...