Chef Scotley Innis is known for proudly representing and highlighting his Jamaican heritage through his exceptional culinary skills. The Atlanta-based chef has traveled all around the world, and has acquired training in some of the best establishments globally.
Now, he has opened his first brick and mortar, Continent Restaurant & Cigar Bar, in the Chamblee area near Atlanta.
“I always wanted to open a brick and mortar, so people could really see what I’m capable of,” Innis told Travel Noire. “As far as opening during this time, I wanted to safely bring back those experiences we’ve been missing.”
The chef sees dining experiences and restaurants as a way to bring people together. Now that people are beginning to travel and visit restaurants in-person again, it was the perfect opportunity.
Continent Atlanta is a creative masterpiece and culmination of Innis’ extensive travels. But, you can guarantee that Afro-Caribbean cuisine will be the focal point.
From his upbringing in New York to his career in the south, Chef Scotley has certainly learned the art of fusing multiple cultures together into finger-licking dishes.
“I’m really looking forward to elevating and showcasing Afro-Caribbean and Caribbean cuisine in general. I’m excited to represent my culture while also working to become a household name and show the many styles of Caribbean food.”
Innis says that while all the dishes on the menu are great, his top three are the lamb Suya chops (3 spiced Suya lamb chops grilled to desirable temperature topped with slice red onions and charred tomatoes), Oxtail lo-mein (Braised oxtail pulled off the bone with sautéed vegetables including baby bok choy, cambray onions, green and red bell peppers; mixed with lo-mein noodles tossed in soy sauce, sesame oil, brown sugar, oxtail gravy then topped with green onions), and the escovitch whole lobster stuffed with saltfish and ackee and served with plantain festival.
Also, it wouldn’t be Atlanta if there wasn’t a Sunday brunch, too. The restaurant features an extensive cocktail program curated by mixologist Mike Haze, that you don’t want to skip out on.
As far as the interior, you’ll find a ruby-red theme with marble floors, dark woods, and oversized and original mixed media works by local Trinidadian artist Andrea Mackenzie adding to the aesthetic of the space.
On the other side, is the cigar bar and lounge bringing a “sexy” blue vibe. There are couches, a small bar featuring high-end spirits including a 25-year aged Pappy Van Winkle, as well as more than 100 cigar options for the true aficionados. The cigar bar will eventually offer a locker membership, for those who plan to frequent the spot.
“After dinner service on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday we’ll have a live band or DJ playing until 1am,” Innis shared. “There will be small bites available for order, too. It’s going to be the late night spot to really come and enjoy good food, beyond fast food.”
Continent Atlanta is located at 4300 Buford Highway Atlanta, Ga 30345, Suite 201-202. To learn more or to check out the menu, visit: thecontinentatlanta.com.