Reprinted from The Atlanta Journal-Constititution
February 28, 2003
Turning Tables
By Julia McBee
Dave and Rosalind Katz have been making friends all over Atlanta ever since they opened their first sandwich shop in Sandy Springs in 1980. It’s still there, along with almost two dozen others in the metro area. After being an officer in Vietnam and returning home to work in the corporate world--accountant, insurance salesman, stockbroker and more--a decision that “never felt right,” Dave knew he had to own his own business. And Rosalind, a registered nurse, was willing, needing something that she could do while rearing two small children. By putting a second mortgage on their house and relying on friends’ generosity in numerous ways, they opened their first My Friend's Place, finding a niche between the area’s fast-food and white-tablecloth restaurants. Ten years later, with six stores, the Katzes franchised, accepting owners whose business ideas were commensurate with their philosophy of a lunch spot that “serves healthy, tasty food in a warm, friendly way.” The two latest eateries opened last month in Marietta and Gainesville.
Through the years the menu has essentially remained the same: pita and traditional deli sandwiches, soups, salads, and homemade desserts (Rosalind used to make the carrot cake with cream cheese icing and chocolate chip cookies at home). One of the signature dishes is the chicken salad: chicken breast with apples, pecans, celery and mayo. The chicken salad is also used in a cheddar melt on pita bread. Several Reubens, all with homemade dressing, are on the menu. There are several salads, including a chicken/avocado plate.
