By Adrian King
Nestled in the bustling heart of Duluth, Jiang Nan quietly commands attention as the first of its kind in the Atlanta metro area, offering a refined take on Chinese cuisine with a dash of Western fusion. Tucked within a lively plaza — neighbors include the quirky Teso Life and the ever-popular Sweet Hut Bakery & Cafe — the restaurant’s understated exterior belies a surprisingly spacious, elegantly minimalist interior.
The bar at Jiang Nan is a testament to thoughtful mixology. Their Mai Tai, a bright blend of soju, pineapple juice, coconut juice, orange juice, and grenadine, is a sunny, refreshing antidote to Georgia’s sticky summers. Equally notable is the pineapple beer — offered as alcoholic or non-alcoholic — a curious mix of pineapple juice, Sprite, and beer (best paired with a cold Corona). Despite opting for the non-alcoholic version, the drink was a surprising standout, its presentation polished and almost too pretty to disturb.
Service is sharp and attentive, a touch that sets the tone for a thoughtfully curated dining experience. The meal begins with steamed crab soup dumplings — four delicate parcels with a fresh, savory filling that urge you to order another round. Then there’s the Cumin Lamb: tender, aromatic, and just spicy enough to leave a lingering tingle. It's a dish that commands attention with each fragrant bite.
Next comes the sautéed eggplant in a spicy garlic sauce with minced pork, a complex dish that marries sour, savory, and a touch of heat in a way that keeps you chasing the next bite. But it’s the deep-fried Japanese tofu with seafood that steals the show. Perfectly crisped shrimp and baby scallops swim in a luscious, silky egg sauce poured tableside, a flourish that feels both theatrical and genuine. Finally, there’s the steamed lobster — a showstopper, vibrant in color and crowned with crispy fried onions. The freshness of the lobster speaks volumes, a testament to a kitchen that takes pride in its craft.
Yes, Jiang Nan is an investment — a bit of a splurge by Duluth standards — but the experience more than compensates. In a world of all-you-can-eat buffets and rushed dining, Jiang Nan offers a rare commitment to quality over quantity. It’s a destination for the diner who craves intention and finesse, a hidden gem that deserves more recognition than it currently receives.
Jiang Nan
2180 Pleasant Hill Road Unit C
Duluth GA 30096
Tel 470-275-4995
Mon-Thurs 11:30 am-10:30 pm
Fri-Sun 11:00am-10:30 pm
www.jiannanny.com
