It’s been awhile since my last restaurant recap, and I couldn’t think of a better way to kick off the new year than with this spicy, fancy gem in the middle of Atlanta.  Nan delivers authentic and polished Thai food that rivals the street and modern influence food at Tuk Tuk (what a great battle those two places could have).  Tucked away at the corner of Spring & 17th, even the oldest of Atlanta natives may have overlooked this tasty morsel.  Trust me, Nan deserves your undivided attention

 Cooled Off Cocktails

Just like Tuk Tuk, the bar at Nan should be approached with extreme caution.  Me and my fellow diners sucked down two cocktails each before we’d even finished the appetizers (which we’ll get to momentarily).  Add in the fact that Nan’s spicy fare requires several water glass refills and it quickly became prudent to switch from juicy cocktails to a crisp wine.

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 All About Appetizers

We had trouble deciding which appetizers to try so we were quickly sold on the Nan Tasting Tree.  This beauty could be a meal in and of itself.  Each item was better than the last but I think we finally decided that the shrimp and chicken dumplings along with the stuffed fried shrimp (I repeat: Stuffed. Fried. Shrimp) were the stars.  However, I wouldn’t be opposed to a second attempt at that decision.

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Seafood by the Seashore?

I realize that since Atlanta isn’t exactly coastal it’s a bit weird for a restaurant to star seafood, but attention must be paid.  First up is the Pla Sahm Rod, the Chilean Sea Bass.  This was my first time tasting sea bass, Chilean or otherwise, and yowzas was it incredible!  The three flavored chili sauce wasn’t overpowering and worked beautifully with the fish as a light and satisfying dish.  In contrast to that is the Pla Kra Phow, a roasted flounder topped with sauteed shrimp that coats your tastebuds in a flavor overload of fish, basil, chili and garlic.  Two very different dishes but equally delicious.