Trattoria Centrale

Over the weekend, my close friend Amy and I decided to venture out on another lunch excursion since it had been a while since our last one (at the Spiced Pear Room, I believe), but it was also a way of filling the void of being unable to attend Atlanta’s International Fashion Week (long story as to why we couldn’t attend, but needless to say I was a little heartbroken). At first, we really didn’t know which restaurant to try. Between the two of us, we have eaten at some fabulous restaurants, so it was hard trying to find a new one. Eventually, we settled on a little place called Trattoria Centrale, formerly called Za Za Trattoria, located on 20th St N between 2nd and 3rd Ave N. I can’t tell you how many times I passed this place on my way to FEDex (usually to bind those wonderful marketing papers). In all honesty, this little place is still easy to overlook with its simple exterior, but one might disagree if you actually pay attention to the amount of people you see sitting outside enjoying their meals. While I was driving down 20th St N., I almost thought I’d overlook it yet again because I was more concerned about finding a parking spot fairly close to it because it was ridiculously hot and I had no desire to walk, plus I was also concerned about finding a spot that didn’t require me to parallel park (yes, I’ve been avoiding this issue for quite a while). Luckily, I did manage to find a spot and I took that as a sign that I would enjoy eating at this place.

Amy and I had come for a Sunday brunch. When we entered the restaurant, it was packed with no available seating and it was rather small (think NYC restaurant size minus the hidden upper level seating). The walls were adorned with funky pieces of art that one may choose to buy if they have enough money. Amy and I were partial to the one that was referencing twitter, so check it out when you visit this restaurant.

We examined the menus trying to decide what to get. A little warning to anyone who is a vegetarian like myself, this restaurant isn’t entirely vegetarian friendly, but no worries you will still find something to fill you up. I have to say the workers were quite friendly and were kind enough to let me know which items on the menu contained meat that could easily be removed. I eventually settled on French toast topped with blueberries, powdered sugar, and mascadore (not sure about the spelling) cheese with a mimosa as my beverage of choice. My friend Amy chose a crepe that I was tempted to get until I found out it contained ham. Amy also ordered a mimosa to drink. Both Amy and I were also eyeing the scones that they had for that day. Aside from the traditional scone flavors of blueberry and chocolate, they also had some more interesting types that were flavored with exotic spices, so if you are a lover of scones, I also suggest indulging yourselves in one of them.

Overall, I think our dining experience at Trattoria Centrale successfully filled the void that Atlanta fashion week had left in our hearts and stomachs. Although I’m not a fan of brunch, munching on their version of French toast on that lovely Sunday afternoon made me see that this is a downtown staple that I want to return to. I think my friend Amy can attest to this as well. Not only is the food yummy, it is also a great place to simply observe people. I noticed a lot of people seated around us were from UAB, so I guess one can assume that this might be a favorite place among UAB students, who enjoy exploring what Birmingham has to offer in terms of local cuisine.

The Spiced Pear Tea Room: A Review

Last Thursday, my dear friend Chandra and I tried this little place near Soho in Homewood called The Spiced Pear. I was particularly ecstatic, because I had never visited a tea room, and it seemed at the time highly appropriate given my interest in Victorian culture and so on.

We parked out front and were surprised by the fact that our venue was a tiny little white house. How fitting. Quickly seated by the window, we flipped through the long menus, hunting for something to strike our fancy. I quickly settled on the "Cream Tea," which includes scones and clotted cream and lemon curd with my choice of tea. Chandra selected the pimiento cheese sandwich.

We had trouble picking between the large assortment of teas (there were several pages devoted to this task on the menu.) I ended up picking a Roobois tea that smelled heavily of muffins, and Chandra (of course) found a chocolate black tea. The flavor was very delicate, and little sugar was necessary to provide adequate sweetness. It was tasty, and a pot of tea only runs about $3. I was pleased.

The food came shortly thereafter. We were provided with well sized portions; Chandra's sandwich was served on a croissant and came with a salad. My scones were quite surprising. They were little squares with chocolate chips. Normally, I'm not a fan of chocolate chips left unmelted, but I was very impressed. The scones were delicious, especially with the amply supplied lemon curd and clotted cream. The mixture of all three and the tea was especially delightful.


And of course, Chandra and I -had- to get dessert following our sumptuous luncheon. We tried a trio sampler: chocolate mousse cake of varying layers, a delicate white cake with lemon, and a key lime tart bite. My favorite was definitely the white cake, and Chandra (of course) selected the chocolate mousse as her favorite.


All in all, a great time and done very inexpensively given the type of fare we were served. Our waiter was a touch random for the occasion, offering us quips on the 'wild' nature of the general customers (older ladies)at the tea room and how he loved to 'give the ladies a good time,' but the food and environment were definitely entertaining if you are seeking something prim and proper and delicious.

I give it a thumbs up.

Side note: I also found that my dear friend enjoys eating sugar cubes with silver tongs. Isn't she the best?