So, You Wanna Be an “It” Girl?
Girl dinner — the glorified snack plate that took over the internet, may have single-handedly given way to pasta girl fall, tomato girl summer, and olive girl trends. And now, there’s a new dining trend taking over TikTok and Instagram feeds: the “it” girl dinner.
It’s a simple holy trinity of bar bites: a Caesar salad, a side of crispy french fries, and a cold martini. The combination is ideal for the dog days of summer — something light and bright.
People online are sharing this trio, which they often deem as an elite pairing. From the crisp and cold lettuce to the hot, crunchy fries and creamy dressing to an ice-cold martini that cuts through the fattiness of the other dishes, these dishes complement one another exceptionally well. It’s no wonder girlies online are digging this combo.
Atlanta is serving up this standard trio and a few spins on this notable order. From a subterranean restaurant with a decades-long award-winning martini to a Michelin-recommended pub, try visiting one of these six spots to indulge in “it” girl dinner. Below you’ll find everything from a signature espresso martini to the most luxurious French fry toppings.
Kitty Dare is an exceptional option for elegant bar bites. A classic Caesar pairs well with a side of oregano and feta fries. It’s the perfect combination of crisp potatoes with salty cheese and refreshing lettuce with creamy dressing. While you can order a standard martini, make it the ultimate “it” girl dinner with Maria’s Espresso Martini made with Grind double espresso rum, half and half, and walnut bitters.
The Blind Pig Parlour Bar is known for hosting different pop-ups at its venue, and the current Blind Flamingo pop-up (decked out in all-pink, beach-themed decor and inspired by the Apple TV series, “Palm Royale”) has the “it” girl dinner bundled on the menu. For $30 you can order the meal that includes a baby gem Caesar salad, crispy french fries, and a side of an ice-cold dirty martini. Vesper and espresso martinis are also available.
To shake things up (get it?), head to Cooks & Soldiers for your martini and bar bites. The drink menu features several styles of gin, which is great news for gin martini fans. Try the basil elderflower gin for a more floral take on the classic cocktail. Order the patatas bravas (a Spanish take on fries) with garlic aioli and the grilled little gem salad topped with cheese crisp and a cucumber vinaigrette.
At the Four Seasons’ Bar Margot, all of the “it” girl staples are elevated for the ultimate splurge. You’ll find truffle fries topped with parmesan and rosemary, crisp salads, and tableside martini service. The cart is outfitted with vodka, gin, and vermouth for the perfect pour, no matter your preference. Keep in mind that the martini cart only operates Tuesday through Saturday, 6 to 10 p.m.
This Va-Hi staple has been voted the best martini by Creative Loafing for years since it opened in 1989, and the underground hideaway still lives up to the hype. Highland Tap even has the classic cocktail on tap and blue cheese-stuffed olives, if you ask. Naturally, this steakhouse offers Caesar salad with housemade croutons and french fries. Amp it up with a side of warm bacon dressing for dipping.
With a nod from Atlanta’s Michelin Guide, Poor Hendrix offers more than simple bar fare. The no-frills bar and restaurant offers a menu that changes frequently, but you’ll always find this meal’s staples available. Order your standard martini — be it dirty or 50-50, french fries with ranch, and the local lettuce salad with garlic parmesan.