Many people love gourmet food, but do not always know how (or have the patience to learn) to prepare it. Fortunately, there are quite a few places to score what I like to call “Take Home Gourmet” food-a cross between typical frozen entrées, and homemade meals prepared by a chef. Typically, the meals and entrées are already cooked. They are packaged quite plainly in reheatable Tupperware containers, or enclosed in some other reheatable material.
WHERE YOU’D LEAST EXPECT IT: SUPER TARGET
Believe it or not, common chains of houseware/ supermarkets are now housing many different types of specialty grocery options. Franchises like Super Wal-mart, and Super Target are offering delicatessen items, and pre-packaged gourmet indulgences. Specifically, the Super Target location off Mt. Vernon Highway in Atlanta, near popular Perimeter Mall is a prime spot for snatching up all sorts of treats.
The store itself is massive and clean, with wide, well-labeled aisles. The supermarket portion of the department store is situated to the right. Located right near an indoor Starbuck’s, and separate snack counter, is a long deli counter. Directly across from the produce section, it sits with its encasements of foods. A popular staple of this section is the bourbon flavor hot wings, which can be purchased by the pound. There are also several bins of exotic salads-ranging from pasta salads to potato, to mixed fruits. Typical American fare is also sold at Super Target’s deli. Tasty potato wedges and homemade chicken fingers make a wonderful take-out lunch during business hours. A little farther to the left is a colorful array of sushi trays prepared by an on-site chef. They are packaged for easy consumption, and are rather inexpensive. Of course, made-to-order gourmet sandwiches can be created for you at the deli, as there is a sumptuous selection of fresh cold cuts and gourmet cheeses to choose from. In addition to the seemingly endless aisles of supermarket goodies, this particular branch of Atlanta’s Super Target is a fresh and inviting option for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
WHOLE FOODS MARKET: BUT OF COURSE…
For those who like to have access to more “wholesome” take-home options, Atlanta’s Roswell Road is home to Whole Foods Market. The market itself is extremely relaxed and visually pleasing to the eye. Though the store itself is more of an organic supermarket, there are plenty of pre-packaged entrées that are wonderful to take home.
The great thing about Atlanta’s Whole Foods Market is that it offers a multitude of vegan and/or vegetarian prepared meals. There are over 20 hot bar ala carte items, and over 60 salad bar options. If sushi is your thing, Whole Foods Market is also a great alternative to typical fare. The chain has partnered with Genji Sushi to bring fresh and exotic sushi platters. Sushi packages can be made to order, or purchased pre-packaged. This particular area of Atlanta is known for its wonderful lunchtime restaurants. But many people overlook the countless gourmet selections that Whole Foods Market has to offer.
THE ULTIMATE: EATZI’S…
Perhaps the most “decadent” of take-home gourmet eateries, is the aptly named Eatzi’s. This gourmet take-home “restaurant” is actually of chain of stores located in (5) major U.S. cities. Atlanta has two locations. However, the location situated off Peachtree Road in Buckhead is not only the more popular store, but the more visually appealing as well.
Eatzi’s is creatively set up like a “walk-thru” take-home supermarket. The store specializes in exotic breads, cheeses and wines. These items are located along the perimeter of the store, while the center houses a huge enclosed Chef’s Case. This case is literally filled with all sorts of entrées and ala carte items. Shoppers can create their own meals by choosing entrées like sliced roast, Chicken Marsala, homemade quesadillas, and much more. In fact the Chef’s Case is comprised of more than 75 main courses and side dishes. There is of course, a custom sandwich and salad bar with fixings more extravagant than those found in more universal salad bars. Those who choose to dine there in the inviting space are welcome and encouraged to use the in-house microwaves for heating items purchased in the store. Eatzi’s has even thought to install an espresso bar, where patrons can indulge their sweet tooth, and have a refreshing caffeinated treat. Whatever your dining need, Eatzi’s has everything you need to either prepare your own sumptuous meal at home, or impress your guests with a fully prepared dining experience.
Atlanta, known for its plethora of dining options, has created yet another decadent atmosphere for those who like the finer things in life. Whether you shop in Super Target, have a “hankering” for a vegan lunch, or want to sample more than one main course – -Atlanta has something for everyone’s palate.
