Editor’s Note:
Wes Hennings never met a meal he walked away from and is an opinionated eater! Each Thursday he shares the results of a business lunch he’s had with a colleague as a way to advise our business community on the good, bad, and tasty across the CSRA. He doesn’t let ABD or the restaurant know where he is going and his opinions are his own. He grades the restaurants he visits on a 1-5 scale with “5” being outstanding. We call this our “Real Business Lunch Review”.
Food Quality: 4
Service: 3
Business Meeting: 3
Value: 4
Overall Rating: 3.5 out of 5
‘Tis the season. I don’t know a lot of folks who want to end up at the mall during the busiest season of the year, but almost everyone I know finds themself there at least once. So, during my family’s annual outing, we decided to add the food court to our to-do list, and you know, it’s actually not the worst you could do when it comes to finding a quality lunch spot.
The best part? You don’t have to compromise on what food items you want. I ended up at the Mandarin Express (despite my vow to break from writing about Chinese food) and my wife and daughters chose to grab a slice from Sbarro. But you could also do Christian Chicken at Chick-Fil-A or grab a taco at Don Pepe’s. And, of course, a cookie or a pretzel.
I actually feel like this was a better option to satisfy my Asian food craving than hopping around to Chinese buffets as I have in the past few months. I had orange chicken and bourbon chicken (the entree they are always trying to get you to sample off a toothpick) along with some fried rice and crab wontons to share with the kids.
It was around $15 with a drink, but more affordable without the wontons. They were worth the splurge, though. It was fresh and tasty with plenty to share and bring home.
My wife and girls each had a slice of pizza bigger than a 4-year-old’s face, and between them, all tried pepperoni, sausage, and cheese. And all seemed satisfied with this decision.
But of course, we’re talking about business in this publication, so would I take a client to the mall to eat? Definitely not. But if my office mates wanted to grab lunch and run some errands, I wouldn’t hesitate to suggest a quick trip into the hustle and bustle. The service was fast and relatively friendly for what it is.
Plus, you’re not limited by the picky palate of Larry in accounting (or by your children in my case).
As a bonus, after a tasty meal, you should have time to swing by the Apple store or Pandora to grab a gift for someone you love, or at least someone you are obligated to shop for. And maybe grab a novelty gift for the office Christmas party as well.
So, would I go out of my way to eat at the mall? I mean, no. You’re still at the mall with the crowds and parking and everything that involves. But if I was going there anyway, the food court is definitely a fine option for a bite.
Augusta Mall Food Court
3450 Wrightsboro Road
