French-inspired cuisine has a welcoming home in the South, with the influence of French culture evident in the thriving restaurant scene in Atlanta. This historical connection between France and the South was highlighted when Revolutionary War hero Marquis de Lafayette was entertained in Milledgeville, Georgia, with thousands attending a barbecue in his honor.
The fusion of French and Southern hospitality is exemplified by dishes like French onion soup, which is made even more delicious with Georgia’s legendary Vidalia onions, a quintessentially Southern ingredient. Restaurants like Bisto Niko, Petite Violette and Café Alsace confirm the popularity of French cuisine in Atlanta, reflecting the city’s diverse culinary landscape.
Petite Violette, the Popular French Restaurant.Photo byDown South Today
This recipe is from Ruby Cleveland, a renowned self-taught Southern cook, whose culinary roots run deep.
Miss Ruby’s Vidalia French Onion Soup
1/2 cup salted butter
4 large Vidalia onions, thinly sliced