Framingham Beer Works - Framingham, MA

★★★★★

My kids love this place!

You might not expect it from a microbrewery, but this restaurant is super kid-friendly. We have eaten here twice so far, the first time arriving on the late side for lunch, and the second time arriving on the early side. Both times we were seated in a booth, which was great for the kids. The kids menu has all the staples for my kids - hot dog, hamburger, mac 'n cheese, pizza - and both kids really like the different root beers as well.

This restaurant is close enough - and well-liked enough by the kids - that we might be eating here relatively often. I think I'll try to order something different every time. So far I've had the Charlestown Burger and the Fish 'n Chips, both of which I thoroughly enjoyed.

The real reason I'm giving this restaurant 5 stars, though, is because of how allergy-aware they are. When Sebastien mentioned his allergies, the waiter was careful to make note of each allergen. One time, both Isabelle and Sebastien ordered the mac 'n cheese, and when the food came out, the server specifically asked who had the allergies so she could give that person a particular plate. Even though both plates looked exactly the same, presumably one had been served up to minimize cross-contamination. And, when the bill came, it included an all-caps warning about allergies, presumably because the same ticket was used in the kitchen.

South City Kitchen - Atlanta, GA

★★★★★

Every time we visit Ken's parents in Atlanta, I like to re-visit old haunts, mostly restaurants we frequented when Ken and I were first dating. Today Ken and I had lunch at South City Kitchen, where Ken made quite an impression on me years ago.

South City Kitchen turned out to be even better than I remembered. Everything about the meal was fantastic, and I am finally going to give a restaurant a full five-star rating! Ken and I both had cocktails which were perfectly mixed, not too weak, not too strong. We split two delicious appetizers, both of which had well-blended flavors: fried green tomatoes made with goat cheese, served with a red pepper coulis and fresh basil, and a bowl of chowder made with sweet potatoes, corn, and bacon. For our entrees, Ken ordered a catfish Reuben sandwich, which I didn't try but which he said was very good, and I ordered a dish of shrimp, ham, and grits. I absolutely loved my dish, which was cooked perfectly on all counts - both the shrimp and ham were tender and not over-cooked, and though there were a lot of flavors going on, nothing dominated, and everything was well-complemented.

When it came time for dessert, I was already full, but Ken was in the mood for a port and something sweet. We decided to split a dessert, but I let Ken choose, since I would probably only have a bite or two. He picked the pecan pie, which we both know to be something that Ken loves and that I am indifferent about. When the dessert came, I was game to give it a try, and I was surprised at how good it tasted! If all pecan pies were made that well, then maybe I would be a fan. The espressos we had to end our meal had a touch of foam, and they were strong enough that even I added half a packet of sugar to round out the flavor. (I usually take my coffees and espressos black.)

Our service was professional and friendly, giving us nothing to complain about. Truly a perfect meal all around!