Atlanta, GA: Nickiemoto’s Midtown
Nickiemoto’s Midtown is a restaurant I have wanted to try for years. Originally located in Atlanta’s Buckhead area, the pan-Asian restaurant moved to midtown several years ago. Advantageously situated on the tip Piedmont Park at the corner of 10th and Piedmont, parking can be a bit tricky if the restaurant is packed, but the inside is sleek and comfortable. Fortunately, my co-worker and I went for a mid-afternoon lunch, so I did not experience the fast-paced, noisy, clubby atmosphere I often hear about.
While there are a decent variety of dishes like assorted salads, calamari appetizers, and various sushi and sashimi combinations, the Asian influenced offerings seem highly Americanized. Admittedly, I was a little disappointed with the overall service, but I know people who absolutely love Nickiemoto’s, so it may just be I caught them on a bad day when service was to be desired.
I ordered the Super Crunchee and Volcano Rolls, two of my sushi staples. My friend ordered the California and Shrimp Tempura Rolls. The waiter told us our rolls would be a great starting place, then we could order more if we so desired. He continued with letting us know our rolls would be out quickly, since there weren’t many patrons at the time. It was almost 30 minutes before we received our food, which I thought was a bit excessive. I didn’t say anything when I didn’t like the rolls because it was more my issue than anything else. First, I don’t eat masago and forgot to tell the server to omit it from my roll, which was inundated in the little orange roe under the salmon. Second, the only raw sushi I eat is salmon, but the Volcano Roll I ordered was all raw tuna. My mistake for assuming the rolls would be similar to other establishments I frequent.
I don’t know if I can say have I written off Nickiemoto’s because of one so-so experience. I just need to remember to ask questions. Plus, I may want to experience the cool patio that provides great people watching!
Nickiemoto’s Midtown
990 Piedmont Ave NE
Atlanta, GA 30309
(404)253-2010
