Smoke and Friends - Carne en Vara

From start to finish, this was an exceptional dining experience. Joali was absolutely outstanding — she walked us through the menu with confidence and a true understanding of each dish’s flavor profile. Her knowledge elevated the entire evening, helping us make perfect selections and appreciate the thought behind every bite. The food was beyond epic. Every dish was beautifully executed, balanced, and packed with flavor. It’s easily one of the best dinners I’ve had in ages — the kind of meal that reminds you why you love going out to eat in the first place. Between the impeccable service and unforgettable cuisine, this was a top-tier experience. Highly recommend.

Barbecue Venezuelan style where cuts of meat are skewered on long wooden rods (varas) and slow-cooked over an open fire. At least that’s the concept of “carne en vara”. Traditionally it’s cooked outside in an open fire. My favorites were the chorizo and the ribs, cachapa was made of freshly ground corn and not store bought mixed. Highly recommended. We were here on a weekend and it was packed, we were seated in a short time after arriving but waited about 45 mins for the food. This is not the place to come if you’re in a hurry but the food is worth it!

Are you really gonna read this whole review? If not, then let me say I highly recommend this place. The quality of the food, friendly service (muchas gracias, Pedro!), and best Old Fashioned I ever had, all guarantee this place is on our repeat visit list. Now, for those of you sticking around for the rest of this review, my wife and I left with full bellies, no room for dessert. We will plan better next time. Anyway, have you ever had an Old Fashioned? How about one that’s smoked? How about one that’s smoked and made with Venezuelan rum in place of bourbon? If you haven’t yet, it’s time, and you can get the aforementioned cocktail here. My wife had a tinto de.verano and loved it! She ordered dinner for us because she’s been here before. We had the parilla mixta. Picaña, chicke

This is a really nice place. The atmosphere and staff were wonderful. The food was fresh and cooked to order but for me some of the meats that I tried, although cooked to perfection were a lil too salty for my liking . First thing were the wings….hot and crispy but the salt level was too much for me to finish the ones that I had. Next came the main course with generous portions of meat… roasted chicken, sausage, steak, and pork and ribs. The chicken and pork was very good and not as heavily salted but the other meats were just a lil too much salt for me again. Sides (boiled cassava, cold slaw, fried yucca sticks, arepas) were all very good!! This place has enormous potential to be one of my favorites but the salt level on the meats will keep me away.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Smoke & Friends is without a doubt one of my favorite spots in Atlanta. From the moment you walk in, you’re welcomed with amazing service and a warm, friendly atmosphere. This place is run by wonderful people from the Venezuelan Andes, who bring their culture and authentic gastronomy to this part of the city. The food is outstanding — the wood-roasted beef, chicken, and pork are all incredibly flavorful and perfectly cooked. Everything tastes amazing. If you’re in the mood for a great drink, weekends are ideal whether you come alone or with friends. The vibe is relaxed, inviting, and always a good time. Incredible food, excellent service, and a place that proudly represents Venezuelan tradition. Highly recommended!