ATLReview
photo credit: Juli Horsford
The Deer and The Dove
Ever since The Deer and the Dove opened in 2019, it’s been a fixture of Decatur dining. Located right in the Square, the rustic feel of the place combined with a creative farm-focused menu has made it a date night haven for couples. While they do have traditional items like a very good burger, this is the place to try gamey proteins because they prepare them so well. Juicy venison is served rare with a light, coffee-dusted char. Dry-aged duck topped with duck bone jus and foie gras is so rich you could lose your train of thought mid-chew. And knockout dishes like bone marrow and buttery snails drenched in a bordelaise sauce will turn naysayers into escargot enthusiasts. The kitchen is as versatile as it is inventive, and the relaxed farmhouse interior is the perfect backdrop for a memorable feast.
Food Rundown
Coffee Dusted Seared Venison
Served rare with a light, coffee-dusted char, this high-quality venison is deliciously rich without a gamey taste.
D&D Grilled Burger
It might feel like a crime to order a burger here but set your prejudices aside and make way for a juicy patty that barely needs chewing. Truffle cheese and a bordelaise sauce will re-confirm your love affair with this American staple.
Gnocchi
The truffle shavings on top are a nice touch, but the star of the show is the potato gnocchi—soft mini pasta pillows in a thick gorgonzola sauce.
Bone Marrow + Snails
These slippery little suckers are served pre-plucked from their shells and drenched in a rich, buttery bordelaise sauce. Get these, especially if you’re new to the escargot game. They make a great benchmark.
Dry-Aged Duck
It turns out turnips are our favorite root vegetable when doused in a kale puree and rich duck bone jus. The small portion of foie gras is just an added salty bonus alongside the juicy duck confit.