Northeastern Thai
Larb Thai-Isan, 6234 N. Federal Hwy., larbthaiisan.com
Thai food has thankfully become more and more common in recent years, but Larb Thai-Isan offers something more specific: food from northeastern Thailand, near the border with Laos. Try Isan sausage or mok nho mai for a regionally specific taste – or try some of the possibly more familiar staples on a menu that also offers plenty of well-known Thai favorites.
Georgian
Askaneli, 511 SE 5th Ave., #101, uoigroup.org
First off, yes, we’re talking about the country on the southeast coast of the Black Sea, not our neighbors to the north – Braves caps not required. This upscale restaurant on the south bank of the New River offers live music, comfy couch seating, a stylish outdoor bar and a menu that will introduce you to some new favorites. Dumpling fans should try the khinkali – you can get it filled with veal, pork, cheese, mushroom or for a dessert option, strawberry or chocolate. The Napoleon cake is also a lush dessert choice, and the cocktail menu includes a selection of delicious concoctions including specialty cocktails, Georgian beers and chacha, a kind of Georgian brandy.
Filipino
Isla Pilipinas Café, 1083 SE 17th St., facebook.com/islapilipinascafe
This fun, family-oriented place offers all the Filipino favorites. And if you’re really feeling ambitious, it’s also a grocery store – pick up some supplies and try it at home. If you’re feeling adventurous, we recommend the bangus sisig. But fans of downhome rice and noodle dishes will also not leave disappointed. Oh, and leave room for dessert.
