News Summary
Atlas, a Michelin-starred restaurant in Atlanta, showcases its artistic flair with a new poached salmon dish inspired by renowned artist Gustav Klimt. Chef Freddy Money’s creation features a velvety salmon with geometric sauces and a blend of flavors from Japanese ingredients. This culinary masterpiece helped him achieve victory at the recent U.S. Culinary Open competition. With an emphasis on color and design, the dish promises to be both visually stunning and delicious, enhancing Atlas’ distinguished reputation in fine dining.
Atlanta’s Atlas Restaurant Reveals Artistic Poached Salmon Dish
In the vibrant city of Atlanta, food enthusiasts are buzzing about the upcoming launch of the spring menu at Atlas, set to unveil a striking poached salmon dish that resembles a masterpiece rather than just a meal. This innovative dish has notably inspired the executive chef, Freddy Money, to clinch victory in a recent culinary competition.
A True Work of Art
The new dish, titled “poached salmon with many sauces, circles, and squares,” is heavily influenced by the geometric style of famed artist Gustav Klimt. The salmon achieves a velvety texture through a careful poaching process and is glazed in a delicate parsley gelee. Resting on a bed of seaweed and drizzled with mirin sauce, it is set to be a feast for both the eyes and the palate.
Geometric Sauces and Design Philosophy
Chef Money has taken plating to a new level, integrating a design philosophy that emphasizes color, contrast, height, shapes, and geometry. His creation includes three distinctive sauces: black garlic, ponzu, and parsley gelee, artfully arranged into geometric shapes with the use of braised leeks. His preference for odd-numbered arrangements is intended to create a visual balance that captivates diners.
Competition Success and Culinary Trends
The salmon dish not only dazzles the palate but also led Chef Money to secure a win at the inaugural U.S. Culinary Open competition. This prestigious event took place at the Georgia World Congress Center on February 26, 2024, where it featured twelve talented chefs. Money’s victory, alongside his commis chef, stands as a testament to their culinary creativity and excellence.
Embracing Japanese Ingredients
A growing trend within fine dining involves the incorporation of Japanese ingredients. Atlas has embraced this trend, showcasing self-made condiments crafted from domestic soybeans. Money’s prior work at the Japanese-European restaurant Nami in Lake Nona, Florida plays a significant role in shaping his culinary style.
Artistic Inspirations
In addition to Klimt, Chef Money draws from the works of other iconic artists such as Marc Chagall and Julian Opie, as well as the vibrant scenes of Atlanta street artist Greg Mike. This artistic backdrop is reflected in the restaurant’s ever-rotating collection of rare art, including murals that seamlessly combine the styles of Klimt and Chagall.
Complements that Elevate the Dish
The poached salmon dish is perfectly balanced with the addition of pickled onions, which provide essential acidity to contrast the umami-rich sauces. Crunchy leeks and fresh herbs serve as textural accents enhancing the overall experience.
A Perfect Pairing
To elevate the dining experience further, sommelier Andrew Beck has expertly paired the salmon with a 2022 Eyrie Vineyards Trousseau, ensuring that each bite harmonizes beautifully with the chosen wine.
A Michelin-Starred Experience
As a Michelin-starred restaurant, Atlas is renowned for its modernist approach to classic ingredients. The inclusion of this artistic salmon dish as a supplementary item on the tasting menu promises to be a headline addition that highlights the exceptional culinary artistry on offer.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Eater: The Best Salmon Dish in Atlanta
- iHeart: Beloved Georgia Eatery Crowned Best Seafood Restaurant
- Atlanta Jewish Times: Yum Catering Delivers on Its Name
- The Infatuation: Review of Lazy Betty
- Atlantan Magazine: Best Michelin-Starred Restaurants in Atlanta
- Wikipedia: Fine Dining
- Google Search: Michelin Star Restaurants in Atlanta
- Google Scholar: Culinary Trends
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Seafood
- Google News: Atlanta Restaurants

Author: STAFF HERE ATLANTA WRITER
The ATLANTA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAtlanta.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Atlanta, Fulton County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as vibrant music festivals like Shaky Knees and Music Midtown, major cultural celebrations including Dragon Con and the Atlanta Film Festival, and iconic sporting events like the Peachtree Road Race. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce and the Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, beverages, and retail that power the local economy such as Delta Air Lines, The Coca-Cola Company, and The Home Depot. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAugusta.com and HERESavannah.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.


