The Connector
The Connector

R. Thomas offers fresh, veggie-friendly meals 24/7

By Gray Chapman
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Are you the type who looks up from your studio homework at 3 a.m. and craves a big, juicy, tasty … salad? It’s not every day you can find a restaurant that serves a wide variety of healthy, eclectic food twenty-four hours a day. And no, I’m not talking about Waffle House. R. Thomas Deluxe Grill is a quirky little spot less than half a mile north of SCAD-Atlanta on Peachtree St. The joint stays open 24 hours, offering their notably diverse menu whenever you so desire.

“Quirky” would certainly be the operative word, as one will quickly come to understand upon approaching the building. Both the interior and exterior of the place are laden with yard art, wind chimes and even a trademark windmill. Before you even enter the restaurant, you will meet R. Thomas’ version
of a hostess staff: cages of personable, often talkative birds.

Once you enter the restaurant, you’ll be seated in the covered patio. While the proximity to Peachtree St. can make things a little loud at times, the tent-like setup is surprisingly insulated. After you take a few minutes to visually digest the many “design elements” of the interior, take a shot at that menu. It
encompasses a wide range of genres, from Thai to Southwestern to “Breakfast All Day.” It’s safe to say you’d be hard-pressed to find a restaurant where you can pick between a “Dixie Omelette,” ginger tamari and spicy fish tacos (just to name a few).

Though the seemingly random menu choices can be overwhelming, the good news is that you’re sure to find something you’ll like. A good staple is the Portabella melt, grilled on a sourdough bun with grilled peppers, onions and zucchini. A personal favorite is the
chicken curry basil wrap, which blends spicy and sweet with a zesty curry and a honey dressing drizzle.
For those of you who prefer veggie-
friendly options, R. Thomas offers a multitude of vegeterian and vegan choices that are most likely a bit tastier than that Boca burger in your freezer. Many of the menu categories include vegetarian selections, like the Sloppy Veggie Joe, the Veggie “Sausage Queen” Omelette and several fish options. According to their Web site, there are over two dozen vegan options on the menu.

R. Thomas places particular importance on providing healthy, natural “food for life.” According to their mission statement, their aim is to provide their customers with an educated and enlightened food choices to help them be healthy and vibrant. So maybe instead of grabbing whatever fast food is available, when you take a study break, head right up the road to R. Thomas. It’s always open and within walking distance of the school at 1812 Peachtree St.
For more information, visit their Web site at www.rthomasdeluxegrill.com.

Photo by Andy Pruett