“No Reservations” -
Catherine Zeta-Jones, Aaron Eckhart, Abigail Breslin, Patricia Clarkson

This is a remake of a French film I had previously seen and loved. I do think the French did a better job, more character development and plot depth but then most American audiences prefer shallower film experiences and focus on the star power. Zeta-Jones is appropriately distant and unifocused as the chef of a celebrated NY restaurant. When her sister and niece are in a car wreck on their way to visit and her sister dies, she is appointed guardian to her niece. Clearly her grown up life doesn’t suit the school age Zoe and it is up to the playfulness of Eckhart’s Nick to reconnect Zoe to her new life. Eckhart is a total scene stealer. No matter how unshaven, he is dreamy! Not sure what the appeal with Zeta-Jones’s Kate is, while she is lovely to look at, she has the warmth of a snow pea. Nick is a delightful romantic, sensitive to the needs of all, and wonderfully grounded. I’ll see anything with Eckhart as I truly feel is has an amazing breadth of talent. Breslin is going to go far if she doesn’t burn out in childhood. Clarkson was an excellent casting choice as foil to Zeta-Jones.

Having had only limited experience with Thai Dining in Atlanta, this was a refreshing change of pace. The atmosphere is truly Thai in feeling (rather than Chinese tortured) with towering columns in gold and red at the four corners of the intimate central dining area. We were invited to get comfortable on built in sofas (less structured than the usual banquette) complete with silk pillows. The mood is decidedly romantic and cozy despite the 20′ ceiling. Menus are in black and gold to mimic the four panel screen at the front entry. I’m a sucker for Zen Elegance and they’ve done it up in spades.

The food was delightful, we started with the mixed appetizers that included a unique tea rose dumpling (chau moung) with minced chicken in a pale rose colored pastry, Thai dumplings with shrimp and chicken (kanom jeeb), and satay chicken (satay kai). For the main course we indulged in Ghat Yang, bbq lamb chops outstanding (and know that bbq is nothing Southern here!), and Kung Mung Kron, a generous cold water lobster tail with panang curry sauce and keffir lime. All was beautifully presented and divinely prepared. I look forward to my next visit. For a truly exquisite global dining adventure don’t miss it. Their sister restaurant Tamarind is another favorite.

Nan Fine Thai Dining
1350 Spring Street
Atlanta, GA 30309
404-870-9933