By Sekou Smith The Atlanta Journal-Constitution Published on: 04/20/08
Josh Smith claims to know places to go in metro Atlanta that his teammates couldn't find with GPS. Smith was born in Crawford Long Hospital and says he knows the heartbeat of "his" city better than anyone. So we put him to the test and pressed him for his favorite spots to do everything.
GOOD EATS
Fletcher's Place, Candler Road in Decatur
"The Chicken Philly and fries is my favorite. I could eat it three times a day. They got the TVs, a jukebox with all the latest stuff and people that have known me since I was in ninth grade. It's like home."
FINE DINING
Strip Steak & Sushi in Atlantic Station
"This is where I take my girl for a nice dinner, a classy spot for a night out when you're trying to show off a little bit. I got into sushi a few years ago, and now I love it. I know people might not expect that from me, but it's good stuff."
BREAKFAST SPOT
IHOP all over the city
"I know people would normally say Waffle House, but I'm an IHOP guy. That's always been my spot. They got a crazy breakfast menu. If that doesn't work for you, I'll get my daddy to make his famous salmon croquettes. That's my Sunday breakfast spot."
JUST FOR FUN
Jimmy's Mad Mad Whirled, Delk Road in Marietta
"You name it, they got it. Laser tag, arcade, Whirlyball and everything. It's a huge place that can accommodate huge groups, and it's perfect for families and for you and your boys if you want to cut up a little bit."
FLY JEANS
Willis & Walker, Bennett Street in Atlanta
"When you're my height [6 feet 9] and you need some jeans, you can't go anywhere else. Most of the cats I know in the [NBA] get their jeans there. Nobody does it better than [former Hawks center and Smith's former teammate Kevin] Willis and Walker."
ACCESSORIZING
Louis Vuitton at Lenox Square and various stores at Lenox and Cumberland malls
"I love Louis. They've got everything you need in bags, belts, cuff links and any other accessory you might need. That's my spot. And I grew up at Cumberland. Sometimes I just like walking the mall like we did back in junior high and high school."
IN THE CLUB
Luckie Food Lounge, Luckie Street, Atlanta
Velvet Room, Peachtree Road, Atlanta
Lotus Lounge, Lindbergh City Center, Atlanta
"Each place has something special and a little bit different about it. I like 'em all. Luckie Lounge is my spot right now because you can get a good meal and get the smooth club vibe all at the same time. That's the grown and sexy spot."
