Last night Nick and I went to what I thought was another weekend pop-up at Gato in Candler Park. I reviewed one of their pop-ups a few years ago, you can read it here. I was quite pleased then, and I still am! They seem to consistently rep the vegetarians well – last night the majority of the dishes were veg (one had a lil bit of duck fat, but I’m no purist).
The concept is Southern Mexican/Yucatan. Though there were certain flaws such as a too-dry tamale but overall the food was flavour-packed, dynamic and fun. Beyond that, the experience felt special. Get a seat at the bar so you can watch the cilantro tortillas get pressed right there in front of you! Don’t pass up the glorious $5 buñuelos de yuca – a lovely subtle dessert for those of us (ahem) who don’t always appreciate the dessert option being some kind of gross american oreo smores upsidedown sugar-fest.
They are getting their liquor license in April. I was initially a bit bummed out by this as I personally really like byob situations but upon further reflection on the fantastic salted lime and warm winter tamarind drinks we had, I am mighty excited to see what inspired cocktails they come up with.
We split 4 things and I left feeling full. The bill came in just under $50. A deal for original, artistic food that is so lovingly considered. I was happy to hear from the owner that this concept isn’t actually a pop-up but will come to be a mainstay for dinner soon. For now it is available Friday, Saturday, and Sunday 6-10pm. They also have breakfast/lunch 9-2 Tues-Sun and I’m thinking I have to come check out their veggie reuben I saw on their lunch menu soon!
