Entries Tagged as 'Cumming'

Norman’s Landing

Had a girls’ night out in the burbs recently and decided to hit Norman’s Landing. If there’s anything that really stands out about this place, it’s the service. We came in on a busy, jam-packed Saturday night. Our server, Terry, despite the chaotic atmosphere that night was absolutely magnificent. She was calm, very attentive, and very efficient. Drink orders were taken less than a minute after we got seated, delivered 2 minutes later, and dinner orders taken a minute after. Eager to please, she even suggested to give us separate checks after the meal (there were 7 of us; and on a very busy night, too). I have nothing but praise for Terry. She was terrific.

Norman’s Landing has been a Forsyth County institution since 1995. The few times that I’ve been, it has always been packed, both for lunch and dinner. Wooden floors, tables, chairs, and booths give it a casual, homey feel. The menu is extensive and while seafood is the specialty of the house, there are plenty of other alternatives for the non-seafood fan such as steak, ribs, and chicken.

Norman's Landing

I settled for the grilled Cajun scallops served with two of the special sides of the day: macaroni-and-cheese, and grilled asparagus. Although the scallops were perfectly grilled, juicy, and tender, the Cajun seasoning was a bit much. To say they were salty is an understatement. Too bad, they would’ve been quite delicious. The macaroni and cheese were the clear winner of the evening. This version’s very, very creamy, tasty, and a perfect description for comfort food. It was so good, I could’ve easily eaten a huge bowl. The grilled asparagus was a little on the wilted side but still a good choice nonetheless.

The kitchen must have had a heavy hand on the salt and seasonings on this particular night. A friend who ordered the country fried steak gave up after a few, very salty bites; although others on the table had favorable experiences including one whose blackened grouper was outstanding. Overall, a dependable place for good, fresh, quality seafood this side of town. Portions are big. Prices are decent (seafood averages at $15; steaks/chicken start at $12, all for dinner). Service is always stellar.

Insider tip:
Located just off the exit ramp on Exit 13 on Ga 400 across from the newly built The Avenue Forsyth outdoor mall.


The scoop
:
Norman’s Landing
365 Peachtree Parkway GA 400 Exit 13 (Rt. 141)
Cumming, GA 30041
(770) 886-0100

Norman's Landing on Urbanspoon

Technorati Tags: , , , , , , , ,

Midway Meal House

Deep in the bowels of the BOA area between Cumming and Alpharetta lies a rustic-looking white house typical of old southern homes. Step inside and you’re bound to feast on real southern cooking. The Midway Meal House offers southern breakfast, lunch and dinner daily.

Raring to eat breakfast, I was sorely disappointed to find out we missed it by 5 minutes. No concessions. Breakfast is served til 11am daily. Moping and ready to leave, a basket of bread appeared and being the bread person that I am, couldn’t resist and grabbed one immediately. The freshly baked biscuits were fluffy and milky. Enough reason for me to stay.

So I had to order lunch — grilled chops and two sides while my eating buddy had Chicken Livers. The grilled chops were tasty and well seasoned, albeit a little on the thin side. With too many sides to choose from, I settled for the fried okra and broccoli casserole. The fried okra were fried to perfection. While the casserole looked better than it tasted (think baby food consistency). I would have liked to see more solid bite-sized bits of brocolli.

The Chicken Livers were outstanding: lightly battered, well seasoned and perfectly fried. The mac-n-cheese was creamy and cheesy.

All in all, it was a good lunch. I can’t say I was floored, but enough to make me come back the next time I’m craving for a decent southern meal. Service is great and the kitchen is fast. Expect to wait on weekend mornings.

Insider tip:
Breakfast daily until 11:00AM. Repeat, 11:00AM.
Daily specials available.

The scoop:
Midway Meal House
5150 Atlanta Hwy.
Alpharetta, GA 30004
770-442-3738

Midway Meal House on Urbanspoon

Technorati Tags: , , , , , ,

Click Here For Cruise Line Jobs! Click Here For Great Travel Secrets!