by Melissa D. J. on Gloria's is my favorite new hot-spot. Whenever I go here, I feel romantic, classy, edgy, and sexy. Just what Latin fare should do! Other than taste good, of course. But we'll get to that. There's something to be said about great atmosphere. It doesn't hurt that Gloria's neighbors the Borders book store in the already gorgeous Domain shopping center. But when you walk inside, and you're greeted by the snazzy salsa music over the speakers and the smiling hostess, you feel almost transported into the classiest spot in Latin America. The bar serves as a centerpiece for the establishment, and it's typically bustling with well-dressed patrons engaged in lively conversation. The rich and vibrant colors of the artwork, the walls, the lighting, and the cushions (the booth-type areas have lush purple cushions) pulse with passion and depth. Enough about the atmosphere. There are plenty of pretty spots in Austin. The food is what keeps me coming back, and Gloria's is no exception. I will pre-empt this by saying that I am a native San Antonian. I've been eating Tex-Mex since I've been off the teet, so to speak. Therefore I have little tolerance for inferior Latin fare. I come for the spice (not the heat, don't be confused), so whatever I eat, it had better be full-flavored. Gloria's does not disappoint. Every entree I've had here as been amazing. The flavors are full-bodied and rustic, and the meat is unbelievably tender and succulent. In a place that has such phenomenal flank steak, I must insist that someone order the carne asada. There are many variations of this particular dish - any of them are strongly recommended. Have the meat done medium-rare. Anything more is shoe leather. My other favorite dish is, believe it or not, their tropical salad. Rarely do I go with an entree salad when there are such fantastic options available, but their salad is a full-flavored and refreshing blend of baby greens with fresh fruit (even the mandarin oranges and mango!) and your choice of grilled protein (I tend to go with the salmon, which is in and of itself a delight). Of course the black bean dip and the salsa aren't bad - the black bean dip is clearly the superior of the two - and their queso flameado and pupusas are also pretty damned tasty. I also suggest the two soft drink specialties - horchata and tamarind juice - free refills on the weekend. The horchata in particular is tasty - it could quite easily serve as dessert! Their tres leches is second only to Chuy's (and maybe Pappasito's), and their brunch menu is also spectacular. For a fun and lively date - fancy or low-key, check out Gloria's. It's a great time.
by Chris S. on Its been over a year since I visited Alfredo's, and I still rave about it. Alfredo's is absolutely the best Italian food in Atlanta, period. This place wrote the textbook on customer service. My wife and I were seated at a four-top table. While we were in the process of sitting down, two people descended on the table to break down and clear off the two extra place settings. Our wine glasses were never empty ( I highly recommend the house Pinot Grigio). The waiter asked me 'What type of pasta would you like?'. I asked him 'What kind do you have?'. His response? 'I said, what kind do you want? We can make it...' The food was equally as good as the service. Don't let the outside of the restaurant fool you. Alfredo's is a first class establishment all the way around. Take your wife here for your next anniversary, and you won't be disappointed.
