Fuego Spanish Grill, Atlanta, Georgia

It may be poor etiquette, but Poncho and Lefty never shy away from sampling each others’ entrees at a great restaurant. A little taste here, a little sip there and before you know it they are swapping plates completely! It will come as no surprise then that tapas, the intimate Spanish-influenced dining experience that encourages “sharing”, is a favorite!

Fuego Spanish Grill in the Crescent area of Atlanta’s trendy Midtown district came highly recommended by Poncho’s younger sibling, a Midtown local. Tucked away behind a low key façade, it is likely you would never notice the place unless someone pointed it out. The covered outdoor dining patio is inviting, and the indoor seating area offers secluded sections for parties or special occasions.

The idea behind tapas is that diners order multiple, appetizer-sized dishes and share them with friends. Lefty loves that you can try something new, without committing yourself to a whole meal! Relax and nibble your way to satisfaction over a glass of chilled Sangria. At Fuego, the Sangria is served in an authentic terra cotta pitcher.

Tapas dining is extremely casual in concept, but often feels upscale to American diners. It really is the best of both worlds; a fancy night out with comfortable atmosphere and good conversation. Feel free to start a tab, just as you would at a bar, and keep adding to your order as you wish. There is even tapas happy hour. Fuego offers $1 tapas selections during the early evening on Tuesdays. The portions are a bit smaller, but it is a great way to try something new.

Poncho is a fan of Fuego’s balsamic drizzled asparagus. The beef empanada is the fine dining version of a “hot pocket” stuffed with what seems best described as Spanish barbeque. Black bean hummus is a fun twist on the garbanzo standard. And then there are the dates… Glorious, sugary dates stuffed with gorgonzola cheese and wrapped in bacon. You must order them. Trust us on this one!

On the hot June evening when Poncho dropped in for a bite to eat with her little sister, the waitress was thoughtful enough to suggest the signature mint iced tea. The tea was perfectly refreshing; just barely sweet and with a hint of mint.

So gather a group of friends, give Fuego a try, and remember it is ok to share!

Fuego Spanish Grill can be found at:
1136 Crescent Ave NEAtlanta, GA 30309
http://www.fuegocafe.com
404-389-0660