The Atlanta Restaurant I Keep Coming Back To: Rock Steady
I first pulled up to Rock Steady back in 2021 just a couple of years after they opened, and at the time, I had only recently started exploring Caribbean food after actually going to the Caribbean. From the outside, the location was unassuming and looked like the kind of spot you might drive by without thinking twice. But the moment I stepped inside, it was a different story.
They had the tunes were bumping, and the space just felt alive. Girl groups and aunties were gathered all over the restaurant talking emphatically about the events of the week. Guy friends were huddled around the bar, and couples were cozied up at small tables around the perimeter of the restaurant. And there I was, seated alone in the center of it all and ready to get down.
The thing about being surrounded by Black people, especially somewhere like Atlanta, is that even when you show up alone, it’s impossible to feel lonely. The wait staff welcomed me like I was family, immediately gave me great recommendations, and answered every question I had about the menu without missing a beat.
All those years ago, I ordered the shrimp and grits, and to this day, it’s still my favorite entree at Rock Steady. Perfectly cooked shrimp, rich and flavorful grits. And something I was able to do this time that I had never done before was add crawfish for New Orleans style shrimp and grits. It’s the kind of dish that once you have it, you immediately know you can’t live without it.
Grilled Jerk Wings | Jerk-Marinated Smoked Wings | Ranch | Choice of BBQ Jerk, Mango Hot Honey or Spicy Ginger Glaze
But to be real, the entire menu has gems. The plantains are to die for, soft with just the right amount of caramelization. The grilled jerk wings are a must, and take my advice: ask for all three sauces (BBQ Jerk, Mango Hot Honey, and Spicy Ginger Glaze). Trust me, you’ll want the options. The calamari and Brussels sprouts are both solid choices too, and if you’re feeling a little adventurous, the Fried Snapper Bites with Curry Mango Sauce are unique and absolutely delicious. If you typically order catfish bites and love those, you’ll love the snapper bites.
Fried Snapper Bites | Curry Mango Sauce
If you’re looking for comfort food that warms your insides and a setting that makes you feel both alive and at home, Rock Steady is the stop you need to make in Atlanta. I came once in 2021 thinking it would be a one-time experience. Now? It’s damn near a tradition.
Guava Island | Tropical Fruit Punch using Caribbean juices: lime, pineapple, cranberry, and mango
Fried Sweet Plantains
My pro tip is that if you can only order one thing, make it the Shrimp and Grits, but don’t sleep on the grilled jerk wings either. Grab a cocktail, order a couple of small plates, and just feel your way through the experience from there.
Spiced Wild Honey Shrimp | Jumbo Shrimp | Mango Hot Honey Sauce | White Rice | Sautéed Peppers, Red Onion, and Broccoli | Mango Salsa
If You Go:
Reservations: Highly recommended, especially for weekends. Make one here.
Parking: Valet is available, and there’s street parking in the surrounding area.
Service: 20% gratuity is automatically added to every ticket.
Must-try dishes: Shrimp and Grits, Grilled Jerk Wings (ask for all 3 sauces), Plantains, Fried Snapper Bites
Atmosphere: It’s lively, welcoming, and packed with energy. The music can get a bit loud, but if you like music and want to move and groove a bit, then you’ll love it.
Smoked Tomato Shrimp & Grits | Jumbo Shrimp | Creamy Stone-Ground Grits | Smoked Tomato Cream Sauce | Pikliz de Gallo
