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I finally treated myself to Poor Calvin's after hearing about it for years. It's honestly a little embarrassing it took me this long, but I'm one of those people who hears about a restaurant and somehow doesn't make it there until years later. I ordered several dishes to get a good feel for the menu. Ordered: * Crab Beignets * Lobster & Scallop Drunken Noodles * Lobster Mac & Cheese * Midnight Sticky Ribs Overall, I'd give it 4 out of 5. The presentation was excellent, and I can definitely see why it's become an Atlanta favorite. However, I don't think the food fully lives up to the reputation it's built over the last decade. The crab beignets were the clear standout. They were creative, unique, and easily my favorite dish. The lobster and scallop drunken noodles and lobster mac & cheese were both flavorful, but not as memorable as I expected. My biggest disappointment was the midnight sticky ribs. They had good flavor but were noticeably overcooked and drier than I've ever had. I still think Poor Calvin's is worth trying because it's a unique part of Atlanta's food scene. I just left feeling that the food was comparable to several other great Asian fusion restaurants around the city rather than being in a league of its own. Just my two cents. I snapped a few photos below. Take a look.
This is such an amazing place and I'm glad I got a chance to come back to it. The service and ambiance is perfect for date night or friends night out or to celebrate a special occasion. Definitely get reservations ahead. Our server was fantastic and very attentive. The food is Asian fusion and it never disappoints. We got the vegetarian options which are limited so plan ahead. Appetizers with tofu was cooked to perfection soft on the inside crunchy on the outside. The Savior beignets were cheesy and melted in your mouth. For the main course we tried a Mediterranean pasta. Which was chef recommended as the other options are meat or seafood heavy. Their menu changes often so definitely try this spot. They have a valet available
Went here for a birthday and had a wonderful time with wonderful food!! To start our servers were very friendly and Jojo was very knowledgeable of the entire menu, including describing the daily specials and the flavors/ingredients of each dish we ordered. To start we got the lobster crawfish wontons and the seafood spring rolls. The lobster crawfish wontons have a Cajun cream cheese inside which was a flavor bomb, and the wontons were fried crispy but not oily. The sauce on top helped to cut through the richness of the wonton stuffing. It was a delicious appetizer!! The seafood spring rolls were massive, again a really good fry on them with the skin being thin and super crunchy but not overdone. The seafood inside was generous, but I would say the flavor was more just of the seafood itself instead of any special seasoning. Still good, but we preferred the wontons more! The mains were the lobster fried rice and the drunken noodles. The lobster fried rice had a gochujang flavoring but didn't have as much of a wok sear in my opinion, but was still good! The lobster was fried beautifully, where the meat was super soft and the fry on the outside was crunchy! It also came with these fried kale chips that were sooooo good, these chips had so much flavor!! My favorite was the drunken noodles, which had a lot of flavor from the wok sear and a slightly sweet and spicy sauce. We asked for chili on the side, and definitely think the added heat made this dish much more flavorful. The lobster here was also really good and well buttered! For dessert, we shared the matcha crème Brulee which was fantastic, strong matcha flavor that was tempered with the creaminess of crème Brulee. The torched sugar on top was superrrr well done, super crunchy and probably one of the best sugar torching on crème Brulee I have had!! In between each item, Jojo would clean our plates and table, and we saw him also ensuring everyone's dish was cooked to their liking. Everyone seemed to really care about the quality of the food and it made for a really nice experience! I would say the ambiance is dim lit casual to upscale, great for work events, date nights, etc. Overall a great place for flavor packed food with exceptional service!
This was absolutely a 10/10 experience. I was staying at the Marriott Downtown for a work trip and desperately needed to catch up with my friend and eat before heading to bed. I wasn't expecting much from this place but it was the perfect gem. I wasn't expecting much able to make a last minute reservation online and we were seated immediately. The waiter was professional and so friendly--he literally knew every little thing about each dish. He provided some great recommendations and we decided to order the lobster crawfish wontons, the crispy beef, the drunken noodle with scallops and lobster tail, and the sticky ribs. I easily could have eaten all the wontons myself and the drunken noodles came large lobster tails and plenty of scallops. I ate these so fast that I forgot to take a picture. The crispy beef was a little bit on the sweeter side but it was the perfect amount of crunch and sauce that paired well with the vegetables and jasmine rice. I also really enjoyed the ribs--they were very tender and flavorful. It came with collard greens which I didn't enjoy as much but the other dishes were so good and I ate so much that I didn't mind. I also saw plenty of couples celebrating milestones together so it definitely makes for a cute night out if you're in the area looking to have a nice dinner with your partner. I hope to be back to Atlanta soon so that I can indulge again.
Great vibe and amazing food (Pad Thai)!! The service was fantastic also. I highly recommend Poor Calvin's.
My husband and I were in Atlanta attending a conference and doing some research when we came across Poor Calvin's online. We intentionally avoided reading reviews because we wanted to form our own opinion, and we're so glad we did. From the moment we arrived, we were welcomed warmly by the host, which immediately set the tone for a great dining experience. Once seated, our waiter was attentive, personable, knowledgeable, and genuinely seemed to care that we enjoyed our meal. The food was outstanding, the drinks were excellent. Poor Calvin's delivered from start to finish. If you're visiting Atlanta or you're a local looking for a restaurant that combines exceptional food with outstanding hospitality, Poor Calvin's is well worth the visit. We left with absolutely no complaints and look forward to returning the next time we're in Atlanta.
Another year, another visit to Poor Calvin's. Once again went as part of a larger group. The front of house staff is very welcoming. The menu here is very nice. I think our host ordered one of everything on the starters menu. Everything I tried was great. They once again made me a smoked Old Fashioned. For my main course I had lobster, duck, bok choy, and mashed potatoes. It was delicious. Finished the evening with an espresso martini.
I was told that this was a wonderful place. You must use the valet service. The service here is spectacular. Waiter recommended the Lobster fried rice so that is what I got. The lobster was a little chewy and fried hard. The green side was crispy but cooler than room temperature. The food tasted food but not worth the hype. Next time, I will grab a drink and order something different.
I enjoyed the atmosphere upon entering. The waitress was very knowledgeable about the menu and recommended several dishes. We got the lobster wontons which were really good. For the main the lobster fried rice was amazing and even better the next day. The other main was fried chicken, macaroni and cheese, and greens. The greens had a tangy flavor that was different but tasty. The drinks were also good. My only issue was the valet. The parking lot was too small and they kept moving my car to get other cars in. We watched them from the window continue to move my car which was in a parking space and bend the side mirrors back when they are automatic. One window was out the other was back. It was weird and the guys acted oblivious to the issue.
After long sessions at work, I was recommended to Calvin's by a close friend. When we arrived, we were seated immediately, even without a reservation. The vibe and ambiance of the place were fantastic, even though it is a small, closely-packed restaurant. Our waiter was extremely friendly, knowledgeable about the menu, and took note of my allergies. I tried the Long Island; it was three drinks in one, with a spice that made it stand out. For dinner, I had chicken with lobster and greens. Mac was a little spicy, but mixing it with the greens worked well because they were sweet. I definitely will return to Calvin's; I can't call him poor because the prices are not low.
The setting of this place is elegant and tastefull. The servers here are knowledgeable about the menu and the food was delicious. All of it. I definitely recommend checking this place out.
Poor Calvins was okay. I wasn't wowed by my food but the experience was nice and the food was good for what it was. I opted for one of their specials which was a lamb meatloaf w/ gravy ontop and it came with a lobster tail and mashed potatoes for $55. The meatloaf seem to have more filler in it and I could barely taste the lamb. The sauce ontop was okay. The mashed potatoes were bland. The best thing was the lobster tail. I got the suspension cake which was highly raved about according to the reviews. It was good but not the best dessert I've ever had. It's a HUGE slice of cake so if you order it, share it with others or take it home. I split it between the 3 of us and we still couldn't finish it. Service was great and the host was kind enough to save me a table. They get BUSY the moment they open the door, so if you don't have reservations, get there 15 minutes prior to opening. It's hard to get in there. Would I'd come back? Eh. I can't say that I was that impressed or curious enough to try anything else. It is a bit pricey but not so unaffordable.. come check l it out for yourself.
Amazing! We were in toe. For a conference and I happened across this place after we visited the Coca Cola Museum and the aquarium. What a find! The food and the service were excellent, we had an amazing meal that my colleagues are still commenting about 2 months later.
25 days ago
Made dinner reservations via Open Table. Used the complimentary Valet for parking. Once inside my party was already waiting. The inside space is small but intimate. We were at a 2-top table. Ariel was an amazing server! Very knowledgeable about the menu. Our appetizers were so delicious. We got the Lobster Crawfish Wontons and Vietnamese Seafood Spring Rolls. For our entrees we ordered the Seafood Curry and Fried Chicken with lobster mac and cheese and collards. The dessert stole the show. The new Toasted Poundcake was absolutely delightful. It was green in color and very moist. Server with a gingerbread ice cream and topped with strawberries and banana fosters. I enjoyed every bite. I also got the Chocolate Ganache Cake Togo. read more
12 days ago
20 days ago
I'd heard about Poor Calvin's during the pandemic and had been wanting to try it ever since. I was finally in the area with a friend and we decided to stop in. Let's just say, I already know I'll be back! The restaurant is on the smaller side, but it packs a serious punch when it comes to both the food and service. Our server, Ariel (like the mermaid, and hopefully I'm spelling her name correctly!), was fantastic from beginning to end. She shared some of the history behind the restaurant and its owner, walked us through the menu, and gave us some amazing recommendations. Her service really added to the overall experience. We originally came in for appetizers and drinks, but one thing led to another and we ended up staying for dessert. We tried the fried frog legs, lobster crawfish wontons, and spring rolls. The spring rolls were probably our least favorite of the three, but those lobster crawfish wontons? Easily my favorite appetizer. I already know I'll be ordering them every time I visit. The fried frog legs were also really good. Yes, they actually do taste similar to chicken! Ariel recommended eating them with the roti bread and dipping sauce that comes with the dish, and she was absolutely right. Eating everything together took the dish to another level. And then came dessert. We ordered the apple empanadas, which were perfect for sharing since the order came with two. They were served with fresh strawberries and homemade ice cream, and this dessert was SO good. Ariel told us the ice cream is specially made for Poor Calvin's by Morelli's, and the entire combination was the perfect ending to our meal. It's been a few days since my visit and I'm still thinking about the food and the overall experience. Poor Calvin's has officially made my list of favorite restaurants. The atmosphere feels intimate and would be perfect for a date night, girls' night, or even a solo dinner at the bar. On my way out, I also noticed they have patio seating, which I would definitely take advantage of on a cooler Atlanta evening. My only complaint from the entire visit was the gnats. There were several flying around our table during the meal, which was definitely annoying and took away from an otherwise excellent dining experience. With a restaurant and food this good, I would have loved not having to swat gnats away while eating. Aside from that, it's been a few days since my visit and I'm still thinking about the food and overall experience. Poor Calvin's has officially made my list of favorite restaurants. The food was memorable, Ariel's service was excellent, and there are already several things I want to come back and try. read more
1 month ago
I finally treated myself to Poor Calvin's after hearing about it for years. It's honestly a little embarrassing it took me this long, but I'm one of those people who hears about a restaurant and somehow doesn't make it there until years later. I ordered several dishes to get a good feel for the menu. Ordered: * Crab Beignets * Lobster & Scallop Drunken Noodles * Lobster Mac & Cheese * Midnight Sticky Ribs Overall, I'd give it 4 out of 5. The presentation was excellent, and I can definitely see why it's become an Atlanta favorite. However, I don't think the food fully lives up to the reputation it's built over the last decade. The crab beignets were the clear standout. They were creative, unique, and easily my favorite dish. The lobster and scallop drunken noodles and lobster mac & cheese were both flavorful, but not as memorable as I expected. My biggest disappointment was the midnight sticky ribs. They had good flavor but were noticeably overcooked and drier than I've ever had. I still think Poor Calvin's is worth trying because it's a unique part of Atlanta's food scene. I just left feeling that the food was comparable to several other great Asian fusion restaurants around the city rather than being in a league of its own. Just my two cents. I snapped a few photos below. Take a look. read more
This is such an amazing place and I'm glad I got a chance to come back to it. The service and ambiance is perfect for date night or friends night out or to celebrate a special occasion. Definitely get reservations ahead. Our server was fantastic and very attentive. The food is Asian fusion and it never disappoints. We got the vegetarian options which are limited so plan ahead. Appetizers with tofu was cooked to perfection soft on the inside crunchy on the outside. The Savior beignets were cheesy and melted in your mouth. For the main course we tried a Mediterranean pasta. Which was chef recommended as the other options are meat or seafood heavy. Their menu changes often so definitely try this spot. They have a valet available read more
Went here for a birthday and had a wonderful time with wonderful food!! To start our servers were very friendly and Jojo was very knowledgeable of the entire menu, including describing the daily specials and the flavors/ingredients of each dish we ordered. To start we got the lobster crawfish wontons and the seafood spring rolls. The lobster crawfish wontons have a Cajun cream cheese inside which was a flavor bomb, and the wontons were fried crispy but not oily. The sauce on top helped to cut through the richness of the wonton stuffing. It was a delicious appetizer!! The seafood spring rolls were massive, again a really good fry on them with the skin being thin and super crunchy but not overdone. The seafood inside was generous, but I would say the flavor was more just of the seafood itself instead of any special seasoning. Still good, but we preferred the wontons more! The mains were the lobster fried rice and the drunken noodles. The lobster fried rice had a gochujang flavoring but didn't have as much of a wok sear in my opinion, but was still good! The lobster was fried beautifully, where the meat was super soft and the fry on the outside was crunchy! It also came with these fried kale chips that were sooooo good, these chips had so much flavor!! My favorite was the drunken noodles, which had a lot of flavor from the wok sear and a slightly sweet and spicy sauce. We asked for chili on the side, and definitely think the added heat made this dish much more flavorful. The lobster here was also really good and well buttered! For dessert, we shared the matcha crème Brulee which was fantastic, strong matcha flavor that was tempered with the creaminess of crème Brulee. The torched sugar on top was superrrr well done, super crunchy and probably one of the best sugar torching on crème Brulee I have had!! In between each item, Jojo would clean our plates and table, and we saw him also ensuring everyone's dish was cooked to their liking. Everyone seemed to really care about the quality of the food and it made for a really nice experience! I would say the ambiance is dim lit casual to upscale, great for work events, date nights, etc. Overall a great place for flavor packed food with exceptional service! read more
2 months ago
This was absolutely a 10/10 experience. I was staying at the Marriott Downtown for a work trip and desperately needed to catch up with my friend and eat before heading to bed. I wasn't expecting much from this place but it was the perfect gem. I wasn't expecting much able to make a last minute reservation online and we were seated immediately. The waiter was professional and so friendly--he literally knew every little thing about each dish. He provided some great recommendations and we decided to order the lobster crawfish wontons, the crispy beef, the drunken noodle with scallops and lobster tail, and the sticky ribs. I easily could have eaten all the wontons myself and the drunken noodles came large lobster tails and plenty of scallops. I ate these so fast that I forgot to take a picture. The crispy beef was a little bit on the sweeter side but it was the perfect amount of crunch and sauce that paired well with the vegetables and jasmine rice. I also really enjoyed the ribs--they were very tender and flavorful. It came with collard greens which I didn't enjoy as much but the other dishes were so good and I ate so much that I didn't mind. I also saw plenty of couples celebrating milestones together so it definitely makes for a cute night out if you're in the area looking to have a nice dinner with your partner. I hope to be back to Atlanta soon so that I can indulge again. read more
2 days ago
Great vibe and amazing food (Pad Thai)!! The service was fantastic also. I highly recommend Poor Calvin's. read more
My husband and I were in Atlanta attending a conference and doing some research when we came across Poor Calvin's online. We intentionally avoided reading reviews because we wanted to form our own opinion, and we're so glad we did. From the moment we arrived, we were welcomed warmly by the host, which immediately set the tone for a great dining experience. Once seated, our waiter was attentive, personable, knowledgeable, and genuinely seemed to care that we enjoyed our meal. The food was outstanding, the drinks were excellent. Poor Calvin's delivered from start to finish. If you're visiting Atlanta or you're a local looking for a restaurant that combines exceptional food with outstanding hospitality, Poor Calvin's is well worth the visit. We left with absolutely no complaints and look forward to returning the next time we're in Atlanta. read more
Another year, another visit to Poor Calvin's. Once again went as part of a larger group. The front of house staff is very welcoming. The menu here is very nice. I think our host ordered one of everything on the starters menu. Everything I tried was great. They once again made me a smoked Old Fashioned. For my main course I had lobster, duck, bok choy, and mashed potatoes. It was delicious. Finished the evening with an espresso martini. read more
I was told that this was a wonderful place. You must use the valet service. The service here is spectacular. Waiter recommended the Lobster fried rice so that is what I got. The lobster was a little chewy and fried hard. The green side was crispy but cooler than room temperature. The food tasted food but not worth the hype. Next time, I will grab a drink and order something different. read more
1 month ago
I enjoyed the atmosphere upon entering. The waitress was very knowledgeable about the menu and recommended several dishes. We got the lobster wontons which were really good. For the main the lobster fried rice was amazing and even better the next day. The other main was fried chicken, macaroni and cheese, and greens. The greens had a tangy flavor that was different but tasty. The drinks were also good. My only issue was the valet. The parking lot was too small and they kept moving my car to get other cars in. We watched them from the window continue to move my car which was in a parking space and bend the side mirrors back when they are automatic. One window was out the other was back. It was weird and the guys acted oblivious to the issue. read more
After long sessions at work, I was recommended to Calvin's by a close friend. When we arrived, we were seated immediately, even without a reservation. The vibe and ambiance of the place were fantastic, even though it is a small, closely-packed restaurant. Our waiter was extremely friendly, knowledgeable about the menu, and took note of my allergies. I tried the Long Island; it was three drinks in one, with a spice that made it stand out. For dinner, I had chicken with lobster and greens. Mac was a little spicy, but mixing it with the greens worked well because they were sweet. I definitely will return to Calvin's; I can't call him poor because the prices are not low. read more
Poor Calvins was okay. I wasn't wowed by my food but the experience was nice and the food was good for what it was. I opted for one of their specials which was a lamb meatloaf w/ gravy ontop and it came with a lobster tail and mashed potatoes for $55. The meatloaf seem to have more filler in it and I could barely taste the lamb. The sauce ontop was okay. The mashed potatoes were bland. The best thing was the lobster tail. I got the suspension cake which was highly raved about according to the reviews. It was good but not the best dessert I've ever had. It's a HUGE slice of cake so if you order it, share it with others or take it home. I split it between the 3 of us and we still couldn't finish it. Service was great and the host was kind enough to save me a table. They get BUSY the moment they open the door, so if you don't have reservations, get there 15 minutes prior to opening. It's hard to get in there. Would I'd come back? Eh. I can't say that I was that impressed or curious enough to try anything else. It is a bit pricey but not so unaffordable.. come check l it out for yourself. read more
8 days ago
Amazing! We were in toe. For a conference and I happened across this place after we visited the Coca Cola Museum and the aquarium. What a find! The food and the service were excellent, we had an amazing meal that my colleagues are still commenting about 2 months later. read more
4 months ago
The food...superb! Customer service...outstanding. Ambience...top-tier. Poor Calvin's will definitely be a staple every time I visit Atlanta. And Ariel? She deserves a raise ASAP...truly a breath of fresh air. Her energy, attentiveness, and warmth took the entire experience to the next level. Highly, highly recommend! read more
I've been eyeing this place since I started traveling to ATL and I'm so happy I finally got to try this gem! The menu is so creative and fuses Asian and southern flavors so well and beautifully. We shared all the dishes and ordered the seafood spring rolls, lobster crawfish wontons, crab beignets, and the seafood curry. All of the dishes were so flavorful - the spring rolls were completely stuffed with all types of seafood and the sauce was a perfect pairing. The lobster crawfish wontons were creative and had huge chunks of crawfish inside... yum. The beignets were savory and paired so well with the pimento crab dip... so creative! The seafood curry was nothing like I've ever tasted - it was a mix of all types of curry flavors and included collard greens as part of the many vegetables and perfectly cooked seafood. It was an amazing dish and I highly recommend it. Ariel was the best waitstaff and she helped us pick all of our dishes and had wonderful recommendations and was super accommodating. I would highly recommend this place for anyone looking for a cute spot with delicious food and cocktails. I'll be back soon! read more
17 days ago
My food was delicious and service was attentive and helpful. First time here- will return. It felt quaint and not as pretentious as alot of spots in the city. read more
This space has great reviews, and it's because of the food and the amazing service, we got the duck and lobster which the duck was to die for, I would like the mashed purée to have a little bit more butter and seasoning, but overall the whole dish was excellent. We got the mussels that was very rich and delicious,, great flavors. The dessert, we ordered the Pound Cake topped with bananas foster made that dish explode from a 10 to 100. read more
Had a wonderful Sunday dinner here! Big shoutout to Joe Joe, who was attentive and gave perfect recommendations. The Hits: Lobster Crawfish Wontons, Lobster Fried Rice, and the Nirvana Nectar cocktail. Everything was incredibly flavorful. The Miss: The Lobster Mac N Cheese wasn't for us. Reliable valet parking and a great atmosphere for a girls' night. Glad to see this spot is still going strong! read more
4 days ago
Poor Calvin's has been around for years! Thst should let you know how good the food is. We started a variety of appetizers (sea bass, calamari, and sea food egg rolls. All were delish! Our entrees were also really good. We had lobster fried rice, fried chicken with lobster Mac and cheese and collards, lobster pad Thai. I highly recommend the sea bass as an appetizer it was really good! Our server was David and he was extremely good with our party. The ambiance is always a vibe there. It's a small place but always packed-which is a good thing. They offer valet parking or you can park around the corner and walk to it. Not far of a walk at all. Food 10 Service 10 Ambiance 10 read more
7 months ago
I often get nervous when a place has so much hype. I find myself doubting the praise like it's disingenuous bootlicking. HOWEVER. I am happy to report that Poor Calvin's is absolutely worth the hype (and that nothing tasted of said boot!) This is a special occasion kind of dining experience. I'm not just saying that because of the price tag. I'm saying it because the menu is beautifully sparse - they don't overwhelm you with ingredients and options that are too similar to each other. Calvin's staff EXPERTLY walks you through their offerings with beautiful descriptions of palates and flare. Shout out to Linda, who was more culinary concierge than waiter!! We really enjoyed the pork belly eggs and the lobster Mac (which be warned LIT me up). But the real standouts were the wontons and the fried rice. The wontons are served with a trio of sauces that are so unexpected and perfectly harmonious! Red berry. Mango. Balsamic truffle. Like... WHAAAAAT?! Absolutely amazing. The fried rice was so decadent - chock full of seafood and veggies - and you know how most fried rice requires a healthy dash of soy or some sauce to moisten it up? NOT THIS ONE. I don't know what voodoo Calvin is using but holy crab it was moist and ridiculous. Would I recommend? 10/10 absolutely Will I go back? Yes, and can't wait! read more
4 months ago
Parking: street parking available, valet available (no set fee, they work for tips so be fair) Reservations: Saturday 7:17 pm - booked 1 day in advance. Upon arrival, there was no wait for our table. We were seated immediately Server: Linda was amazing. Very knowledgeable of the menu and had no issues going through the apps, drinks, entrees and desserts in great detail. She also had some off the menu recommendations that were very delicious. She checked on us at a steady pace but not overwhelming. Ambiance: lighting was low but table lights were available. Decor was beautiful. I do feel like some light music was missing. Since tables are a little close, it would be nice to have the music as a little distraction from close conversations with other guest. Food: the apps were delicious. We ordered seafood spring rolls, calamari and shrimp. Entrees were imperial duck and lamb chops. They were both excellent. Dessert was empanadas and ice cream. Drinks were amazing! Literally no complaints ! read more
I had heard of this spot in certain circles and happened upon it a few nights ago. First, walking into the restaurant was a vibe in itself. We were greeted as if the staff was excited to see us. The restaurant's vibe and decor was interesting, creating a unique atmosphere. Our waitress was did an amazing job of explaining the menu and making sure we knew the chef's creations. I had the Pork Belly Yum Yum Rice and it was delicious. I can't wait to go back here because I want to try some of the other dishes on the menu. Poor Calvin's is a sure fire HIT!!! read more
5 months ago
I liked Poor Calvin's! The food was very different , it was an Asian Twist with a little soul . I ordered the seafood curry , that was so good and they didn't skimp on the seafood. It was a curry broth that was slightly spicy and sweet. The seafood was so good that they added snd they added jumbo shrimp. The lamb was very good as well. We also ordered a cake, it was red velvet, with a cream in the middle. They also had strawberry, cocoa chunks and the bubble tea balls things in it. Although it was a very different cake, it actually was good! read more
3 months ago
This restaurant is really the best kept secret in Atlanta! My family visited here this week for the first time since around 2014 and, despite our fears that it wouldn't live up to the great experience we had then, they EXCEEDED our expectations. We ordered so much and everything was delicious - nothing below an 8/10 in my opinion. We ordered the seafood spring rolls (8/10), crab benigets (8/10 with a special note of originality), and the shrimp appetizer (10/10). Spring rolls- very crispy and flaky, had the "sea floor" variety of seafood inside, flavorful 3 sauces to go with it Crab beignets- a slightly cheesy and airy beignet with a genius crab dip blend. The whole table was surprised on how good it was. Shrimp appetizer- the best "bang bang" shrimp I've had. Shrimps are very large and has a nice fruit salsa to go with. Everyone at the table loved their entrees but I can only truly speak for the ones I tried. Seafood Curry- I will NEVER eat curry anywhere else! I LOVEEEEE THIS CURRY! All the seafood is so fresh, the curry is so flavorful that I literally slurped the rest off my plate. There was also such a variety of veggies in there that were also very fresh and firm (not soggy). For the price especially, you get sooooo much and with such a thoughtful recipe. According to our waitress, it's the only recipe that hasn't changed since the restaurant opened in 2012! Fried chicken - I didn't try the chicken itself, but I did try the Mac and cheese and greens that came with it. Let me tell you, I am very picky about Mac and cheese and this rivals the best Mac and cheese I've had in Atlanta (toast on Lenox)! The greens were also fantastic and flavorful, but a little on the sweet side if that's what your preference is. For dessert, all 4 of us shared one slice of the suspension cake and couldn't even finish it! It was ginormous (literally the size of your head). I won't even go into details- just order it! The ambiance is so intimate and unique- not feeling like an "uptight" boujie restaurant, but curated and thoughtful. They have very nice seating outdoor that is enclosed as well as a beautiful bar area. Lastly, the service is fantastic. I genuinely can't recall my waitresses name, but they speak so highly of the head chef (Calvin) and most have worked there 8+ years, so it really feels like home. I write this review with hesitance because I want this place to remain a secret, but how could I not brag! Book the reservation! read more
Listen! I will visit this place again and again and again and always recommend. I come here several times a year because it's just well worth it. From the customer service, which is top tier to the ambience to the atmosphere to the food. Just everything. Parking is the slight downside but utilize the valet and life is good. I went last night for my highly anticipated visit. My friend flew in from Ohio and has been craving it since she visited the last time. So who was I not to oblige a return visit? It was a great crowd as always but they keep it flowing in a good way. I suggest reservations because if not, you will wait. This place is at the top of a lot of people's lists so given yourself accordingly . I had 7p reservations. I'm always early lol... got there at 6:45p but my friend arrived at 7:06p so of course you have to wait for your entire party... that's the norm so no biggie. The party seated where I was supposed to sit took a tad longer than expected but hey... again... it's no big deal because I'm people watching and the staff is so nice and welcoming. I'm always kind and gracious because it goes a long way and I always prefer to be the light in someone's day and not the alternative! We were offered bubbly while we waited. Thank you to the excellent managers and hosts. Waiter was Jojo... shoutout to him for being helpful and having a great spirit. He offered recommendations and again... of course I will try that bbq rib that omgggggggg was tender and bursting with flavor. Calvin is particular. He's an artist... he's sensitive about his ish! lol and I get it. So don't go in here trying to do substitutions and stuff. Let that man cook!!! And enjoy it how it's curated! Special shoutout to the manager for bringing my favorite dessert ... toasted pound cake with caramel apple pie ice cream. Like excuse me... what?!? Yall.... Run don't walk. Get there asap. I'm still licking my fingers read more
5 months ago
From the moment we walked in, the tone was set--the host was warm, welcoming, and genuinely kind. Then came Zubair (hope I'm spelling that right!), who completely elevated the entire evening. His service wasn't just good, it was next-level. He struck that perfect balance of fun and professional, knew the menu inside and out, and guided us with spot-on recommendations. The Crispy Beef paired with the Lobster Fried Rice was a *chef's kiss* combination we wouldn't have discovered without him. He also had an incredible sense for timing--my water (with ice, because priorities) never once ran out. It's rare to find service that feels this effortless yet so intentional. I've dined at a lot of restaurants, and this easily ranks among the best service experiences I've ever had. And the food? Absolutely flawless. The Lobster Crawfish Wontons were unreal--the kind of dish that makes you pause mid-bite, close your eyes, and just exist in the flavor for a second. Every element came together beautifully. The Lobster Fried Rice was just as impressive, both in taste and presentation--visually stunning and packed with flavor. Truly an A+ experience from start to finish. If I lived closer, this would be in heavy rotation without question. read more
2 days ago
As a Vietnamese American, I truly loved the combination of flavors I experienced at Poor Calvin's. We got several of the appetizers to split and that was more than enough for us at our table. The Shaky Garlic Shrimp was one of the best dishes I've had in Atlanta! So much so that we ordered a second order of the Shrimp! They have complimentary valet and I recommend making a reservation before arriving. The staff was great and the place is nice to have a conversation. read more
Delicious meal! Definitely make a reservation because this placed gets booked and packed. Our reservation was at 8 and we weren't seated until 8:45, but we stood at the bar and got a drink until they were ready for us. That's a long delay, but it was fine. The drinks are amazing! I had the tom yum cocktail which is extremely flavorful and unique. The nirvana nectar was also really good and I love the slanted glassware, very cool! We started with the shrimp which was solid. My colleague had the lamb chomps and they were cooked perfectly and juicy. I ordered the pork belly and crab fried rice. What a presentation! And it was so good! Our waiter was amazing and gave us great recommendations. Other reviews say the tables are too close together; but it's not as bad as other places I've been too. It's perfectly fine and comfortable. Great spot to check out! Highly recommend. read more
1 month ago
11 months ago
When Southern comfort meets Vietnamese ingenuity--Poor Calvin's in Atlanta nails fusion with elegance and flavor. Poor Calvin's is unassuming from the outside, but step in and it's classy, warm, and inviting. The décor feels polished without being pretentious, and the ambiance strikes a great balance--refined yet cozy, lively but not loud. Chef Calvin Phan weaves his Vietnamese roots with Southern flavors, creating a menu that's both unique and deeply satisfying. Service * Warm welcome and attentive staff throughout * Our server guided us through the menu, highlighting flavors and cocktail pairings * Thoughtful pacing made the whole experience feel unrushed and enjoyable Drinks * Pho Cocktail - aromatic ginger and spice, a creative nod to Vietnamese pho in cocktail form * Five Rum Punch - tiki-style blend, rich yet refreshing Food * Shaky Shrimp - crispy, perfectly fried shrimp with Cajun aioli; addictive starter * Lobster Fried Rice - generous lobster woven through flavorful rice; rich, savory, and hard to stop eating * Drunken Noodle - bold seasoning and hearty noodles, a crowd-pleaser * Fried Chicken - crispy outside, juicy inside, with flavors elevated beyond the typical Verdict Poor Calvin's is a true gem in Atlanta's dining scene. The fusion of Southern and Vietnamese flavors works beautifully, cocktails are inventive, and the atmosphere is polished yet comfortable. An easy five stars--this is a place I'd return to again and again. read more
13 days ago
Poor Calvin's is a popular spot in Atlanta. It's where Southern Comfort and Asian Fusion come together. I've been there a few times, but this was my first time writing a review. My husband has been wanting to try Poor Calvin's for a while, so we finally went last Friday night. We decided to sit outside since the weather was cool and the vibe was chill. Since I have a nut allergy, my options were pretty limited, but our server did a great job highlighting what I could have. We started with cocktails. I had a lychee martini and my husband went with the Jasmine Manhattan. Both drinks were really well made; I don't think you can go wrong with anything on their menu. Their cocktails are perfectly crafted. For entrees, we ordered the Drunken Noodle Scallops and Lobster Tail with Shrimp, Duck Dynasty and Lobster Tail, and lobster mac and cheese. The food arrived quickly, and honestly, we're still thinking about how good it was. We're already planning our next visit. If you're in Atlanta or just visiting, definitely check this place out. You won't regret it--the drinks, food, and service were all top-notch. We can't wait to dine again! read more
3 days ago
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More info about Poor Calvin's
510 Piedmont Ave NE
Atlanta, GA 30308
Downtown
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(470) 570-8741
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https://poorcalvins.com
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Ask the Community - Poor Calvin's
Any menu options for kids? modified options or a kids menu?
Can you do a walk in?
you can, but i wouldn't recommend it, especially if you don't want to wait. reservations are best.
Is it cashless?
I think it's both because my wife and I were there recently they accepted cash and contactless payments
Are there vegan options at this restaurant? Traveling with someone who is.
There are some very limited vegan options, but I do not recommend it at all for vegan or vegetarians, as the owners will make no exceptions or adjustments to their menu to cater to vegan customers.
Any chance on getting a seat without a reservation?
Depends on the night. If you are trying on a weekend of holiday weekend I highly doubt it. The bar Possibly but expect 1-2+ hour wait
Has Poor Calvins closed down? I can't imagine?!?! This place is sooooo good. Google shows it "temporarily closed", the website doesn't exist any longer and the phone just rings and rings?!?
They are still open
What seafoods are in the seafood spring rolls?
Omggggg! I've gotten them a few times and I'm drawing a complete blank! I'm not a seafood person and i love these things. My first time trying it i cut a piece and dipped it in the sauce. Soooo amazing i never thought to ask what all was included.…
Is this fine dining?
This is one of my favorite Atlanta restaurants. I would definitely not say this is a "fine" dining spot. It's more of a great brunch/ maybe casual dinner spot. The food is great and the staff is amazing. I pretty much come here about twice a month…
How do I book online, all I see is the page that says reservations? And they aren't picking up the phone.
I booked through open table ... their phone VM seems to stay full with no phone answers . You will not be disappointed!…
Are you open for dine in during Covid-19?
Yes they gots outdoor seating available; Must make reservation
If you parked offsite, where did you find parking?
They provide complimentary valet parking during dinner.
What about parking?
It's free with dinner. I was just there and just tipped the guys.
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554 reviews that are not currently recommended
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Poor Calvin's - asianfusion - Updated August 2026
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