Oak Grove Market

   

"If Atlanta's size and scope seem overwhelming, a visit to the Oak Grove Market is in order. Truly a slice of Americana, this all-purpose market and eatery evokes a simpler time. Shoppers find themselves surrounded by Betty Boop, Elvis, and Shoney's Big Boy -- all characters in the panoramic mural that encompasses the the store.

Bicycles parked out front indicate a posse of kids inside ordering scoops of Blue Bunny ice cream. Fresh food lovers can pick up the best of the season's ripening produce. The foremost reason to visit the market, however, is the $8.99 filet mignon. Wrapped in bacon, it is an eight-ounce slab of unmarbled perfection. Finiky shoppers will be pleased to find Black Angus beef, Fieldale Natural chicken, Inland seafood, and Boars Head cold cuts.

Here, everyone smiles, they make conversation, neighbors catch up with each other, giddy kids run around hyped up on dime store confections, and for a moment, Atlanta doesn't seem like such a big city after all."

--Courtesy of Atlanta Magazine (by Katie Bell)