Cakes and Ale

In Short
This subtle-toned upscale shoebox in Decatur scratches menu items on chalkboards, boasts a tiny bar and even tinier beer selection. But the small dining room and basic digs work elegantly in a less-is-more fashion. Boasting a simple-southern menu, all the food is made fresh daily, with a special emphasis on seasonal and local products. Pimento cheese fingers are mini-grilled cheese strips paired with the chef's pickle selection. Arancini with citrus fellen pollen comes in a cone-basket, tasting like hushpuppies filled with creamy risotto. The burger and fries are tempting, but the roasted half ''free bird'' chicken is heavily-juiced under a crispy shell and enough food for two. Don't miss part of the namesake--Matty Cakes come straight out of the cookie jar and arrive in trios, like a gingersnap-moonpie.