Piccadilly

Piccadilly at Howell Mill ruined my Thanksgiving dinner. For the first time in decades, I decided to leave the cooking to someone else. I chose Piccadilly because I’ve always enjoyed that down-​home goodness they always served up so well. I made my selection of ham, turkey and all the «fixin’s.» I paid two weeks in advance, called to confirm on Monday before the holiday and felt secure in the knowledge that my family was set for a carefree and satisfying Thanksgiving Day meal. What a disaster! Today I arrive to pick up my dinner. But, wait – they can’t find the order! (I tried to call ahead of my arrival but the voicemail box was full – already a bad sign.) I waited an hour while the manager avoided my gaze & filled other orders. Finally, lunch arrives but it was clearly thrown together. I did ask for & receive a pie for the inconvenience. However that was negated when I discovered no dressing! (Thanksgiving without dressing is a sin!) I tasted everything when I got home. Terrible! The greens were mushy. The mac and cheese was bland and the macaroni was boiled too death. The ham had no brown sugar and little flavor. This meal was thrown together. So, think twice before giving this Piccadilly your holiday business. You can’t call them anyway – no one answers the phone.

I like that I can come here are get cooked food instead of everything being fried. Its a great alternative to fast food. I come here often before work and get togo orders. The ladies know my order now. Salsbury Steak, cabbage, brocolli. The cabbage is hit or miss, guess it depends on who cooks it. I have also gotten food catered from them. Love the carrot suffle. Fried chicken is always crispy.

I had a delightful piece of shoe leather they called roast beef. The veggies were drowning in butter and had none of their own flavor left. The staff moved so slowly I thought time moved backwards. But the best part was my waiter, who every time he walked by my table called out delightful compliments such as, «dayam, girl, you be working it» and «momma lookin fine!»

Nice atmosphere, but just so so taste for the food. Nothing I would be interested in coming back for. Overpriced for what we got.

My dinner at Picadilly was a spontaneous decision. Fighting a cold, the thought of healthy vegetables sounded appealing. I scarfed them down and they tasted good, but I’m not sure how healthy they were, loaded with butter. Picadilly hasn’t made the transition to healthy cooking and it’s obvious looking at their entrees drenched in gravy and sauces. It’s a throwback to another era. And so is the dining room, horribly outdated and in desperate need of a decorating upgrade. Go if you must, but know what you’re getting into.

Growing up in North Carolina, I remember going to K&W Cafeteria and J&S Cafeteria. They’re good. In Atlanta, there’s Piccadilly Cafeteria. These cafeterias are very similar. They’re old-​fashioned Southern restaurants, popular with older generations. You grab a tray and stand in line, picking out the foods you want, and pay when exiting. It’s simple, convenient, and you get a near home-​cooked meal.
There are several Piccadilly locations in metro Atlanta. This location can be found at the Kroger shopping center («Howell Mill Square») on Howell Mill Road not far from I-​75. I first started going to this location over a decade ago while still in college at nearby Georgia Tech. I’ve also been to the Piccadilly on Cobb Parkway in Marietta.
I’ve both dined in and ordered to-​go from this location. The atmosphere and décor is very much old school and arguably outdated, but that’s just how Southern cafeterias go and it’s part of the experience. Piccadilly knows which demographic it’s catering to. I’ve run into a variety of «lunch lady» types serving food in the cafeteria line. Some seem to rush you, while others don’t.
You can usually get a filling, hearty meal for around $ 10. This includes a «meat and two,» bread, and drink. Each week, there’s a rotating selection of entrees featuring chicken, turkey, beef, pork, and seafood. The entrees I usually order include some of the more unhealthy items like the fried chicken, chopped steak, and fried fish. It’s some good stuff, though. The fried chicken and fried fish are crispy and golden brown. I believe the fried fish is made from catfish. I love devouring 2 – 3 fish fillets, but anymore than that and I start feeling nauseous from all the grease.
The sides are sometimes so tasty that I wish the portion sizes were bigger. My favorite sides include the mac and cheese, fried okra, carrot soufflé, steamed cabbage, turnip greens, and whole okra. The fried okra is consistently delicious. The carrot soufflé is one of Piccadilly’s signature items. It’s sweet and very good. The steamed cabbage and whole okra are tasty. They may look healthier than the fried veggies, but they’ve been buttered. If you like spicy food, ask for a bottle of pepper vinegar sauce for the cabbage or greens.
There are many bread options (e.g. dinner rolls, cornbread), but I always go with the buttered and toasted garlic bread.
I once ran into a situation when the cafeteria line was out of fried okra. The server told me to tell the employee ringing up the receipts. When the next batch of okra had finished frying in the kitchen, someone brought it out to my table. That was nice.
To summarize, I think the food at Piccadilly is good for what it is: cafeteria food. Yes, it’s pre-​cooked and mass-​produced, but it hits your plate hot and it’s usually satisfying and comforting.
I’ve found the the staff working the dining area to be exceptionally friendly and accommodating. For kids and the elderly, the staff is there to help carry trays of food to the table. They also take away trays, refill drinks, and provide any condiments your table may need. Be sure to tip your server when checking out.

This location gets a bad wrap, but I enjoyed the food.
I hadn’t been to Picadilly in a long time and I only remembered as a place for old people. So I imagined that the food would taste like food at a retirement home.
Hubby and I went in for our weekly lunch date and ate good.

Howell Mill has plenty of fast food joints to choose from and then I remember Piccadilly is just around the corner. Prices are fair at lunch for $ 5.29 you get a main dish, two sides and a bread so which would you rather have fast food or homemade?
Still not sure there is plenty to choose from Salisbury steak, fried chicken, Cajun chicken stew, baked or fried fish, meatloaf and chicken & dumplings (which they seem to run out of). If you are meat free a veggie plate can be had choose three I will recommend the broccoli rice casserole it was surprisingly good. Dishes change from day to day.
While the food is a bit under seasoned it’s nothing a salt and pepper shaker and a dash of hot sauce can’t fix
Need a refill on tea or soda one of the friendly staff will be more than happy to get it for you and before you leave don’t forget to show a little appreciation to the girls on the floor drop a dollar or two on the table before you go.

I’m a self-​professed foodie who’s began dating a fast-​food obsessed bachelor. He likes anything incredibly salty or sweet. He eats out daily, and while he’s traveled extensively, he reminds me that my palette is much more discerning than his. While this essentially makes him the Anti-​Christ, I’m working through it because he’s so damn cute!
With offices in the area, he sifts through all the options that are fast with easy access to parking on Howell Mill. I pick the restaurant quite often, and I’d insisted he choose. While I came expecting Star Provisions, I was whacked in face with the suggestion of Moe’s. (I hate Moe’s. The burritos taste like water!) He’s become used to my «Yelp-​style» glare that makes him squirm like a school boy. When he blurted, «Let’s go to Picadilly», boy did it set in. He realized his sin immediately and began to back-​track profusely.
I’d had enough crap food with my ex to feed all of China. BUT, I’m trying to hit it big here, so I wager that being agreeable from time to time is considered ideal. (Right?)
I wiped «The Queen-​Style» look of disgust off of my face and smiled sweetly. I rebutted, «You know what, I’ve never been there, but I’d love to try something new. It’s a unique place. Let’s do it.»
The parking lot was full of APD cars and Ford Taurus’. While walking in, I tried to remain positive. When seeing the cafeteria line, I felt some anxiety. Most of the meat, except coconut shrimp and fried chicken, was completely unrecognizable.
The sides were greasy/​wet. The bread selection was very vast, though. I grabbed the fried chicken, mac and cheese, and turnip greens. He amassed «Coconut Chicken», corn, and carrot soufflé.
We compiled the food in the center of the table (as we usually do) and dug in. While my Fried Chicken standards are low, I have to say I was impressed. It appears that we got lucky that day (by other reviewers standards). Breaded beautifully, it was crispy and moist, with the right amount of seasoning. The macaroni and cheese required lots of pepper, and the carrot soufflé tasted like a bowl of Sweet and Low.
It was a tragedy for the most part. But, the waitress was as sweet as pie. She smiled and politely refilled drinks. Her southern drawl was adorable.
The food was «meh» but there was lots of it. With less than two healthy options in sight, you were forced into the dark side. The women in the kitchen were sassy, but warm. There were random children who refused to sit in their seats. Lots of strangers who stare, but feel eerily familiar. Old people who see nothing wrong with «taking out their teeth» to eat.
That’s when it hit me: This place feels like home! It was nothing short of nostalgic. It teleported me to the Holiday Season I spend at my Mama’s house yearly. It’s just like Thanksgiving Day in South Carolina!
This review determines two things:
1. You can make through anything without a panic attack or Vodka if you really try.
2. I really like turnip greens, with broth as thick as syrup, flavored with a hamhock and covered in hot sauce. (This can be our little secret!)
Walk on the wild side. Get yourself some Southern Cookin served with a side of sass. Sure, you won’t like everything, but there’s some beauty in this food tradition. Keep an open mind and give it a whirl!

Surprisingly good for the price! Paid only $ 4.99 and got an entrée and two sides. The portions were a little small but the quality was better than I expected. The staff was friendly and helpful when trying to decide on what to get and the atmosphere was very relaxed and enjoyable. I don’t know why I haven’t eaten here sooner!

Let’s face it, cafeteria style dining is passé. Yet, Piccadilly cafeteria continues to hang on. I’ve been eating at this location for more than 15 years. It’s by far the best Picadilly in the city. While the décor is clearly outdated («waaay» outdated) and the food reminiscent of Betty Crocker cookbooks you’d find at garage sales [or recipes you would find in the original New York Times cookbook], the food is still delicious — and unique. The vegetables, braised sometimes until meltingly tender, are typically delicious in their hot broth. I always go here alone to get some veggies, soup (don’t see them as much), or braised protein. It’s an old-​school place that still serves some delicious food (most of the time). Every once in awhile it’s a miss for some item. Note: use your eyes and only pick the food that looks good. Some things are fresher than others on the steaming trays.

This place is an Atlanta classic… still in the same location on Howell Mill since my childhood! I think the food is great, but I always get vegetables and cherry pie! The fried chicken is yummy too, and we all know it is hard to find decent fried chicken! You know what Piccadilly is,…a buffet line of food that you choose from… this is a casual, easy, tasty meal out. If you want chic and upscale, go somewhere else, otherwise, enjoy the Piccadilly southern cooking!

Dont get the fried chicken here and you’ll be fine.
I hate to disagree with most of the reviewers, but I thought this place was alright. Not mind blowingly good, but definitely better than the Taco bell next to it. I would definitely come here over Taco Bell or Arby’s to get my 5 dollars worth of food. I came here with my friend Kevin F and his sister. We all got the chicken pot pie, and among all of us we got the broccoli casserole, mac and cheese, mashed potatoes with gravy and collard greens. All in all a pretty good representation from the sides.
The chicken pot pie was definitely the best dish that we got. the biscuit that it came with (its definitely made cafeteria style) was buttery, soft, and moist while the filling had tons of chicken and veges. Definitely not a light meal, but oh so satisfying. It wasnt over salted, wasn’t overcooked, and actually tasted pretty good.
I guessed that the fried chicken isn’t very good here, and I was right. But I can vouch for the chicken pot pie.
The sides on the other hand were a slight disappointment. The mashed potatoes were DEFINITELY prepackaged flakes. You can just taste it in the consistency. The broccoli casserole was ok, didn’t blow my mind or anything, and the mac and cheese was a let down. It was watery and just generally not very cheesy. The collard greens however were actually made pretty well. They werent overcooked into mush and werent overseasoned. A healthy selection to go along with the most likely heart attack inducing entrée.
So in the end, would I come here for lunch again? If I were shopping at Walmart or Krogers and got hungry… SURE. Otherwise, I wouldn’t go out of my way to come here. Oh, and the prices here are great. Make sure you ask for the student discount.

I have a feeling when I turn 65 I will want to live near a Piccadilly. I went a lot as a kid for some reason and I always liked their chicken, roast beef, and especially the soft rolls. They have a lot of food that is good on the dentures too.
You start out by going through a line picking what you want to eat. You get to see the food right in front of you which is always a plus. Like cattle you are herded through the salad, entrée, side items, bread, desert, and drink sections. If you are feeling really adventurous you can always try the Dilly. Not only can you realize the dream of actually picking a dilly, you will feel good when you do so. It is something that cannot be described in words and can only be experienced first hand.
They have a wait staff who are happy to carry your tray to your seat and refill your drinks. They do not however pre-​chew your food for you. Well they might, I just never asked.
Did I mention that extra rolls are only twenty-​five cents?

I love Piccadilly but This Piccadilly sucks! Stay Away

OUTSIDE…
Me: What are we doing here?
Former friend: We’re having lunch.
Me: At Piccadilly? Did I do something wrong?
FF: I LIKE piccadilly. It reminds me of my grandma’s cooking.
Me: Was your grandma a masochist?
FF: What?
Me: Never mind. Can’t we eat somewhere else?
FF: No. It’s my turn to choose and we’re already here.
IN LINE…
Toothless Betty: What you wan’ suga?
Me: Ummmmmm
TB: Hur up! I’ain’t got all day now!
Me: What’s the special?
TB: Dat’s smover’d steak (pointing to brown, breaded in brown and swimming in brown) wit two sides. We a’so got skrimps.
Me: (nervous) Ummmm. I’ll just have the fried chicken
$ 10 LATER…
FF: Why aren’t you eating?
Me: I broke my knife on the chicken.
FF: Just eat it with your hands.
Me: It’s too greasy. Besides, it’s dry.
FF: Why’d you get the chicken?
Me: It was the only thing I recognized.
FF: Well… just eat your sides.
Me: My salad is wilted and the broccoli is round.
FF: So?
Me: It’s been cooked to death. Broccoli isn’t supposed to be round… they served it with a scoop… like ice cream.
FF: (frustrated) Anything else you want to complain about?
Me: Well… the floor and tables are filthy, I can smell the bathrooms from here and unless they’re handing out free sea monkeys with lunch, there’s something nasty floating in my water…
FF: (angry) Is there ANYTHING you like about this place?!?
Me: (thinking)…I can see the EXIT sign from here…

Ah Picadilly. Nothing says MEMORIES like hot food on a tray being hurried along, surrounded by strangers. Piccadilly is the best friend of busy people who are comforted by good olé American Standards.
This particular location is always clean and good about getting you in and out. Is it great for dates? Probably not unless you’re at that point where you want to show your «nurturing side». At the end of the day you know you still hear your mom’s voice telling you to eat your vegetables… well here’s a way to do it while getting a dessert (pretty good sweet potato pie) a meat and soda for a mere seven bucks.
Piccadilly allows you to get a homey meal without getting on a plane to visit the only people you know who could cook it for you.