Peeking in the windows off Woodward allow you to take a glimpse into a finer life while the urban decay swirls around outside. It is a nice break from boarded windows and chain link fences bordering vacant lots. Inside, the atmosphere couldn't be finer.
As you enter the restaurant, the first thing that is so striking is a map of the suburbs hanging over the entryway. If you could take a map of Detroit, put it onto a metal plating, and then explode the map over a corner high on a wall, you would see the map in Atlas Global Bistro. For a guy who loves all things to do with maps, this was certainly an amazing welcome. Noticably, the city of Detroit was not on the wall, but clearly outlined by the suburbs and nicely done.
Inside, the restaurant has many soft tones of green and cream and if I remember correctly a tin ceiling, which has been a bit of a fad lately, but is clearly original in this building. The art includes a ton of maps and decorations from worldly locations to help you, once again, escape from the outside world.
The tables are nicely situated with cloth knapkins and tablecloths and the finest waitstaff. I certainly don't always get to go to places like this, but a collared shirt could be a nice touch. I know for future date locations that this is one of those places you don't go on the first date, unless you're full of money and want to throw it around, then you could go. But, for a casual lunch or dinner it serves its purpose as well.
The menu was well-formed with many different kinds of choices, all fresh and seasonal, and with elements of local flair. The paprikash was a favorite among the people I was eating with and of course my best "When Harry Met Sally" lines came out. "Today, we will talk, like thees. Waiter, there is too much paeper on my paprikash." Well, you get the idea.
I decided to go with a Grilled Lamb Kelta because, well, I don't get to eat lamb all that often and I didn't want to go with a standard burger (which was also looked delicious and is pictured here.) My second choice, and also a popular selection, was the Pan Cubano sandwich
(which I also got a a picture of.) I was able to try a little bite and enjoyed it immensely, though I was told that the spicy mustard was a deep sinus cleansing experience. Not for the faint of taste buds.
(which I also got a a picture of.) I was able to try a little bite and enjoyed it immensely, though I was told that the spicy mustard was a deep sinus cleansing experience. Not for the faint of taste buds. My lamb was outstanding. I enjoyed it a lot along with pieces of pita and a nice tossed salad. I also was treated to a vinegarette based cole slaw, which is not always traditional, but still delicious. In fact, I think I prefer it to the cream based slaw which is more common. But,I have to talk about the lamb. I don't know what was in it, but it had some incredible spices and was complemented incredibly well. I'm no food critic, but the balance on my plate was wonderful. I was satisfied and not overly stuffed.
If we had time and more money I would have ordered dessert. The selections were wide ranging and looked quite good. However, on this particular trip I didn't have the luxury of time. However, I can see myself returning for a trip to visit the bar and enjoy a nice cocktail and some dessert. I imagine that the bistro is a great night spot and had a wonderful warm atmosphere. When the sun goes down or the snow is falling, I imagine that the Atlas Global Bistro serves up some great places to warm up and enjoy a night cap.I greatly enjoyed my time here and look forward to a return trip. With a changing menu and a great atmosphere, the Atlas Global Bistro is a great place to visit. I also see it as a great foundation for redeveloping the Woodward Cooridor as it sits just north of the stadiums and just south of the Detroit Medical Center. If you ever need a nice spot to sit and relax, check out the Atlas Global Bistro and allow yourself to be transported somewhere new.
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