There's a new kid on the block in historic Roswell , tucked away back on Green Street from the throngs of diners and restaurants that populate Canton Street just a block away. Monkey 68 serves up a blend of Japanese, Korean and Chinese fare that makes for a happy addition to the downtown Roswell restaurant roster. Their sushi game is strong—and the creative cocktails even stronger. Here are three reasons we think you should give them a whirl.
- The sushi Sushi lovers will feel right at home at Monkey 68, whose extensive menu offers plenty of options from sushi bar small plates to signature rolls. Start off with the yellowtail jalapeno shots—yes, shots literally served as a six-pack of shot glasses—featuring thin slices of yellow tail topped with cilantro, sriracha, radish and honey yuzu to toss back. Signature rolls pack a flavorful punch and good balance of textures. Try the Whoa-Cano for a dose of lump crab or the Rolls Royce, which highlights lobster tempura and snow crab leg with chili threads and sweet aioli. It's hard to pick favorites from the rolls—it really depends what you're craving. If you're a fan of salmon and snapper, the She-sho Fresh is worth a bite. Can't get enough tuna? Order the Twilight roll, which serves up spicy tuna with fresh albacore on top, garlic ponzu and fried onion for some crunch.
- The cocktails Creatively crafted cocktails add fun to the menu offerings (there's also sake and beer), incorporating unique ingredients like an oolong ice cube, jasmine-infused gin, peppercorn shrub and applewood smoke, among others, for interesting concoctions. But don't let the ingredients list scare you away—the drinks are approachable even for craft cocktail novices. Order the IHeartdogs drink, which melds cucumber vodka, lychee, lemon, muddled cucumber and a hint of earl grey bitters for a light, crisp sipper. Or opt for the Laughing Horse—a mix of muddled strawberry, basil vodka, agave nectar and lemon ginger beer—for a sweet alternative to the stronger drinks on the list.
- The vibes A little ambience goes a long way—especially OTP. We dig the renovated, cute little abode that Monkey 68 calls home. Industrial vibes and pared back décor lend a casual air to the dark-gray-toned space that houses two dining areas. A small bar makes for a nice spot to cozy up for a pre-dinner drink. And having your own parking lot always scores major points in busy historic Roswell.1073 Green St., Roswell, 770-587-3277, monkey68atl.com
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