Other Notes: Recently, Afghan Scene reviewed this restaurant and gave it a quite low rating. I didn’t think much about it, until I started researching Kabul more. It seemed that La’Atmosphere (or La’Atom as it was referred to in many documents) kept popping up as one of the most happening places in the city. In fact, many of the pictures that I reviewed had expats in this exact restaurant. So, I had to move it to the top of the list for my next review. I wanted to see for myself what it was like.
This place is also known for its “romantic” atmosphere. Since I didn’t have a female to bring with me, I choose the next best thing. A fellow coworker is as “metro sexual” as they come, so he was a perfect choice for my “date!” If you don't believe me, he knows 5 words for "women's shirt" and to him, "coffee", "saffron", "chestnut", and "peach" are not just foods, but are colors!
The first thing that stood out about La’Atom, was the security. Being a Soldier of 20+ years, I look for these things. La’Atom has one of the most comprehensive Sally-port entrances of ANY building I’ve been to in Kabul. Once inside, you are clearly protected from view of any outside element.
But security concerns quickly fade when you enter into La’Atom’s open grotto and patio area. Complete with a bonfire pit and ample room to move about.
We passed the first dining area which was where most of the people were enjoying La’Atom’s generous (and I mean excellent selection) of viticulture. But we were looking for the full dining experience. As we entered the Foyer for the main dining room, I was struck by the ample sitting area and wonderful built-in fireplace. This area would be perfect for just hanging out and enjoying conversation with whoever shows up.
Once seated, the menu had a selection that would rival most gourmet restaurants in NYC.
We ordered the fried Camembert and the Fois Gras for starters. I was amazed to even see it on the menu. It was better than I expected. It was right up there with the best French restaurants that I have ever visited in the States.
For the main course, they were out of the béarnaise sauce, so I went with the Lasagna. Being a Pizzano, I didn’t have high expectations, but was pleasantly surprised when it arrived. My “date” had the beef with the mustard sauce. Once I tried it, it was clear that I need to come back and try that beef when they have the béarnaise sauce.
For desert I had an ice cream and pear on crepe creation. It was very good topper for the meal. Followed by a very special coffee, that was made just right (minus the whipped cream.)
I then introduced myself to the manager. He was a very well dress and pleasant man. He was very happy to talk about his restaurant and rightfully so.
If you are in Kabul, and you haven’t been to La’Atomosphere yet, you are missing a biggest part of the Kabul Nightlife!
This place deserves its rightful place among Kabul’s greatest restaurants (and I don’t give this placement out easily.)
I also want to cast shame on Afghan Scene for giving it such a poor review. I am an avid reader of the magazine and I felt betrayed by its meager recommendation for what is surely one of the greatest culinary institutions in Afghanistan!
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