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Side Saddle Wine Saloon restaurant review

  //food-wine.news-articles.net/content/2025/09/18/side-saddle-wine-saloon-restaurant-review.html
  Published in Food and Wine on Thursday, September 18th 2025 at 9:05 GMT by Atlanta Journal-Constitution
          ^{🞛 This publication is a summary or evaluation of another publication 🞛 This publication contains editorial commentary or bias from the source}

Side Saddle: A New Wine‑and‑Food Hub Bringing Southeast Atlanta a Taste of Celebration

When the AJC first published the story about Side Saddle in September 2025, the Southeast Atlanta neighborhood was already buzzing about the arrival of a new culinary destination that promised to combine a curated wine list, creative Southern‑inspired dishes, and an atmosphere that felt “both playful and intimate.” The article, which ran in the Food & Dining section of the AJC website, follows the development of the restaurant from its conception to its grand opening, and it pulls in quotes from the owners, local chefs, and patrons who have already been swept up in the buzz.

A Concept Born of Community and Wine

Side Saddle was conceived by two longtime Atlanta foodies, former restaurateurs Maya “Maya” Alvarez and Marcus “Mark” Thompson, who met at a wine‑tasting event in the summer of 2024. “We both love wine and Southern comfort food, but we noticed a lack of places that could blend the two in a relaxed, neighborhood‑friendly setting,” says Alvarez in the article. The pair decided to build a “wine bar with a heart,” and their vision was to create a space that offers an approachable wine list alongside a menu that highlights fresh, locally sourced ingredients and classic Southern flavors.

The AJC piece notes that Side Saddle’s design was heavily influenced by the historic “saddle” motif—a nod to the region’s equestrian heritage—while maintaining a modern, “warm, and airy” aesthetic. The space occupies a former storefront on the corner of Fairburn and 10th Street, a block that has seen a recent wave of gentrification and culinary entrepreneurship. The building’s brick façade has been preserved, while inside the space features reclaimed wood paneling, exposed brick, and soft lighting that creates a “cozy yet sophisticated” ambiance.

Wine Selection and Food Menu

Side Saddle’s wine program is a highlight that the article devotes significant coverage to. The wine list is curated by an associate sommelier, Alex Kim, who brings experience from several Michelin‑starred restaurants in New York. According to the AJC, the bar offers “over 200 wines from around the world, with a particular focus on sustainable and organic vineyards.” A range of reds, whites, rosés, and sparkling options is available, along with a dedicated section for natural and biodynamic wines. The article quotes Kim saying, “We want to educate our guests and encourage them to explore flavors they might not have tried before.”

On the food side, Side Saddle offers a menu that blends classic Southern comfort with contemporary twists. The article lists several crowd‑pleasers, including:

• Shrimp & Grits – a modern take on the classic with a house‑made beurre blanc.
• Crispy Pork Belly Tacos – served on corn tortillas with pickled cabbage and a smoky chipotle aioli.
• Farm‑to‑Table Burger – a house‑made patty topped with aged cheddar, caramelized onions, and a jalapeño‑sweetcorn relish.
• Chocolate Soufflé – a dessert that the AJC describes as “light, airy, and decadently chocolatey.”

The article also notes that Side Saddle offers a rotating “Chef’s Table” experience each Thursday, where diners can sample a multi‑course tasting menu paired with a selection of wines.

Community Engagement and Events

Beyond food and wine, the AJC piece highlights Side Saddle’s role as a community gathering spot. The founders have expressed a commitment to hosting events that reflect the diversity of the neighborhood. According to the article, the restaurant will host a weekly “Saddle & Sips” happy hour, a monthly “Wine & Paint” night, and a quarterly “Farmers’ Market” showcase that brings local growers and producers to the bar.

The article quotes Mark Thompson on the importance of community: “This is more than a restaurant; it’s a place where neighbors can come together, celebrate, and discover new tastes.” He adds that Side Saddle will partner with local charities such as the Southeast Atlanta Food Bank and the Community Development Corporation for fundraising events and volunteer nights.

Reception and Future Plans

Readers of the article saw early reviews from a handful of food critics who were among the first to try Side Saddle during its soft opening. They praised the balance of “warm, welcoming service and an adventurous wine list.” A quote from one critic reads, “Side Saddle feels like a secret garden where every bottle and dish is carefully chosen to delight the senses.”

The AJC piece also touches on the future aspirations of the business. Side Saddle plans to expand its offering to include a small retail shop selling select wines, artisanal cheeses, and local craft goods. The article includes a link to the restaurant’s official website—where guests can browse the full wine list, reserve tables, and sign up for the mailing list—and to a Facebook page that features behind‑the‑scenes footage and community posts.

Why the Neighborhood Matters

The article doesn’t simply list facts; it also contextualizes Side Saddle’s arrival within the larger trend of Southeast Atlanta’s culinary renaissance. The writers note that the area has seen a resurgence in independent eateries and boutique shops, driven by a younger demographic seeking authentic, local experiences. Side Saddle, the AJC writes, “fits seamlessly into this narrative, offering a space where residents can enjoy world‑class wine while staying true to Southern roots.”

Bottom Line

By the time the article closed, Side Saddle was not just a new place to eat or drink; it had become a cultural touchstone in the neighborhood. Whether you’re a wine connoisseur, a foodie looking for comfort with a twist, or a community member hoping for a welcoming venue for gatherings, the AJC’s coverage of Side Saddle offers a comprehensive overview of what makes this venture a must‑visit spot. For the full menu, reservations, and upcoming events, the article directs readers to Side Saddle’s website and social media pages, where they can dive deeper into the “Saddle” experience.

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