By Thomas Taylor
The courtyard of La Fonda and Fellini’s Pizza jets out towards the sidewalk two and a half miles north of 1600 Peachtree St. At any time, a crowd of Atlantans can be found, chatting amongst the aroma of Italian and Mexican morsels between drafts of beer. Locals don’t venture out for a meal solely because of the food’s quality. The social and eating experience plays a decisive factor in one’s decision to dine out.
One Friday evening, I ventured up and down Peachtree Street in search of the ideal dining experience. R. Thomas’ came and went, followed by Ted’s Montana Grill and Café Intermezzo. I wasn’t up for a crowded symphony of clamor or an $8 piece of cheesecake, so from the passenger seat I motioned to press on. The sun was easing its way down, painting a lovely sherbet on the streets and faces around.
I was completely distracted when I noticed a swarm of people dining under red-white umbrellas, along a centerpiece fountain that shimmered to the right. We veered off on a side street lined with cars. The parking lot was packed. People boldly parked behind other patrons, blocking them in. We shuffled our way through busy-minded waiters, exuberant children and their animated parents toward La Fonda Latina.
On the sidewalk out front I spotted a sign with red arrow that pointed toward La Fonda. My nose followed the aroma of quesadillas and burritos the rest of the way, like some desperate cartoon hound on the trail of a 10-pound, t-bone steak. The inside was decked with humble decorations. The food was delicious and affordable.
Appetizers range from $3-$7, and there is a wide array of both Cuban and Mexican entrees at an average of $9. I ordered the quesadilla con pollo with a pint of Dogfish Head and watched the sun set on one of the most memorable dining experiences I have enjoyed here in Atlanta.
La Fonda Latina
2813 Peachtree Rd.
Atlanta, GA 30305
Hours:
Monday-Thursday 11 a.m.–11 p.m.
Friday-Saturday 11-12 a.m.
Sunday 12 p.m.–11 p.m.
Driving distance: four minutes
Walking distance: 45 minutes