Bluetop Restaurant and Bar

Bluetop serves creative American fare in a fast-casual atmosphere.

Diners place their orders at the counter, then pick a table inside or on the large outdoor patio. Misting fans ensure comfort on the patio even in the summer heat.

Bluetop’s first-class kitchen, outfitted in a 1969 metal trailer, was purchased for $500 down the street at one of Chamblee’s many antique stores. Bluetop was a taxi stand in the 1950s and vintage signs and photos from the era are found throughout the restaurant.

What’s on the menu: While my less adventuresome kids enjoyed simple burgers and chips ($7), my husband had a delicious blackened fish sandwich on a pretzel bun ($13), recommended by our server. I sampled several small plates including pork belly bites with shishito peppers, empenadas, risotto balls topped with delicate greens and a mini shrimp po-boy sandwich. The menu changes seasonally, but kid-friendly items are a staple as well as local craft brews.

Be sure to leave room for dessert. “The banana pudding was my favorite!” my 11-year-old daughter Sarah said. Owner Andy Lasky told us that this is a family recipe passed down for generations.

Why parents will like it: Great menu that changes seasonally. It is a noisy enough environment that parents can relax and the kids can be kids.

Why kids will like it: The menu always has familiar food and new things to try. Kids and adults are free to walk around the patio, which has a corn hole and bocce ball for entertainment.

– Becky Cooper

Hours: 11:30 a.m.-10 p.m. Mon.-Sat.; noon-9 p.m. Sun. (Kitchen closes 3 p.m.-4 p.m. Mon-Fri.; during these hours salads, soup and desserts are served.)