Blu Gorilla

I will say this… you cant beat the price! (suggestion of $ 25 for a 4-​course meal). Overall, it was a pleasant experience, I would likely do it again. Met some new folks and saw a part of Atl Ive not seen before.
You tell me a dinner party, I think indoors. I knew it was going to be behind a house, but, in my head I pictured a garage or in-​law suite located in the backyard. I didnt realize it was held in/​on the actual yard at picnic tables. So, going straight to BG from work in a skirt suit and heels was not the best idea. Also, having to fight off swarms of mosquitos all night kinda took away from my enjoyment.
Service was GREAT! Very personable folks. The food was pretty good. The apps were yummy. I felt the pasta was bland, though Other said the family style portion they brought out after our single servings was better. The steak & liver entrée was nice, not a fan of liver. The dessert… what are donuts called in New Orleans? *That’s what we had* They were pretty good, I guess Im not a fan of those either. That was no fault to the chef; didnt care for them in NO when I tried them there. =(We were the first to leave and that was a little over 3 hours after arriving. I was not prepared for it to be that long.
I think at another time when I can attend with a group of friends, dressed appropriately, toting bug spray, and free from obligations the next day this would be a wonderful time. I was glad I had the opportunity to try it, I think it’s a fantastic idea!

I can’t remember how I heard about Blu Gorilla, but I know I wanted to check it out the second I learned of its existence. I mean, a backyard supper club that’s open to all? I’m so in.
Finally the right opportunity presented itself and I assembled a merry crew of Unilocalers to check it out on a stunningly gorgeous March evening. Chef Mas invites the public in to his backyard each Thursday and prepares an awesome family-​style Italian feast for a $ 25 suggested buy-​in. You’re welcome to BYOB, but they provide plenty of water to keep you hydrated. You’re encouraged to mingle with the other diners, so I wouldn’t recommend this for an intimate date night: I’d definitely bring a few friends and just enjoy the ride.
As this is someone’s home, you may not get all of the amenities you’d find in a restaurant, but I certainly didn’t miss them. Picnic tables, tea lights, and the gorgeous Atlanta weather: you can’t really beat that, plus the smell of an open fire. The food is also outstanding. We were treated to an incredible caprese-​like salad, homemade pasta with veggies, and a steak and liver combo that I can’t stop thinking about. This isn’t the place for picky eaters– you may not know what you’re digging in to until you’re halfway through, but the Chef is happy to work around specific allergies and the like if you tell him in advance. He’s also quite personable (a rarity in chefs, I’ve found) so be sure to carve out some time after your meal to chat with him. And note: this is a slow experience so be prepared to just relax and enjoy your time there.
Be sure to make a reservation via facebook/​email as he prepares the proper amount for everyone, and don’t go flaking. You’ll regret it.

One random day I got an invite that was advertising an «eclectic backyard dinner on the beltline» — how could I say no to that?
And don’t worry if your google map brings you to a small neighborhood, and the only signs of «Blu Gorilla» are chalked on the side of a wine box — you’re in the right place!
Chef Massimiliano (Chef Mas) was once an employee at the Italian consulate (or something of the like), but as many of us do, hated his desk job and had other passions. So (as many of us don’t) he decided to quit his day job and follow his dreams. He runs his own catering company, and every Thursday hosts a dinner on the beltline for anyone who would love to join him and tastes his creations.
The set-​up was truly amazing. Lit with tea lights, scattered with bottles of wine and bug spray, the unpretentious atmosphere allowed you to enjoy a wonderful 5-​star like meal without having to worry about which fork to use, proper use of etiquette, and forced conversation — everything that comes with dining in a restaurant.
Chef Mas’s friends were so welcoming too, talked to us and welcomed us like one of their buddies, everyone was so friendly!
The backyard setting was perfect for meeting new and interesting people, and allowed us to just relax and enjoy the food for what it was — simple, elegant, and AMAZING.
I think what Chef «Mas» and his friends are doing is great, to provide incredible food, bring together great people-​and all in an atmosphere that allows the two to create something memorable and magical.
and the menu changes every week, and generally comprises of an appetizer, first course, second course, and dessert.
This week it says «the menu will be updated after a trip to the market» — how fresh is that?
And of course he gladly makes changes ahead of time if you have any food related issues or vegetarian friendly requests.
cost is a $ 25 CASH donation, and BYOB, but they provide some beer and wine for those who forget.