i've been about 10 times since the optimist has op...

i've been about 10 times since the optimist has opened and i haven't had anything less than an amazing experience yet.

the optimist is hands down one of the best restaurants in ATL, and according to Esquire, is one of the best new restaurants in the US.

the vibe of the restaurant is awesome. a wonderfully open space with high ceilings, a beautiful bar, and a combination of big and small tables give this space an airy feel while maintaining an intimate feel.

now the important part -- the food. i've done everything from giant multiple course meals to ordering all the sides and sharing them tapas-style. genuinely everything is good here. the dishes are so well-executed but delicious and not overdone. it's high quality comfort food at its finest. and the raw oysters are of course sourced well.

must trys: the punches, spicy octopus, black bass, speckled trout, and ALL of the sides -- 'specially the beignet style hushpuppies and potato puree.