Discerning diners have told us that Aspens is the place they go in Cobb County when they want a fine dining experience. That should come as no surprise, since the venerable white-tablecloth steak house has been winning acclaim from our readers for many years. While Aspens is famous for its steaks, hand cut in house and expertly grilled, there is much more here to like. New executive chefs at both locations are bringing a more contemporary feel to the menu, with some new dishes and techniques that are very welcome without sacrificing the old school items so beloved by Aspens’ devoted following. Poke tuna, a spicy treatment of a Hawaiian staple made with ahi tuna, ginger, lime vinaigrette marinade and a hint of sriracha, is the creation of Aspens East Chef Sean Clark. It has taken a place on the appetizer menu, as has a delectable beef carpaccio with house-made pickled horseradish and preserved lemon. Main plates are sporting some new sides, such as corn pudding and arugula napped with honey fig vinaigrette and shaved pecorino cheese accompanying the grilled island-spiced chicken breast, as well as some absolutely fantastic honey-seared Brussels sprouts with diced pancetta, shallot and white wine that are paired with a succulent braised short rib. Making an appearance on the bar menu will be homemade sausages like one made with duck and pancetta and other charcuterie specialties. Of course a fine dining experience wouldn’t be complete without a vast selection of spirits to choose from. Aspens offers a vast variety of premium wines, both by the glass and the bottle, beers, top-shelf liquors and tasty cocktails.
