Wednesday, September 18, 2002

A Family Affair

By F.C. FOODIE
Food Critic

One of the newest restaurants to land in Fayette County is also one of the most kid-friendly.

Chuck E. Cheese on Ga. Highway 85 in Fayetteville serves as both a restaurant and a refuge for parents.

The pizza place offers pretty standard fare such as pizza and salads. The salad bar is actually quite good and fresh, while the pizza is brought to your table piping hot.

Free refills are offered on soft drinks, and beverages with a kick are offered for parents as they watch their children run wild through the restaurant.

In addition to a wide variety of video games, a "show" is offered. On a stage at the rear of the restaurant, New Age music and videos of the planet nearly lull you into sleep before the production number begins.

Suddenly, the restaurant is bathed in disco lighting and an animatronic mouse appears on stage. The mouse staggers around to the K.C and the Sunshine Band song, "That's the Way I Like It," while children squeal in delight and parents look on with a glazed-over look in their eyes.

Another character in this clever stage production is Pasquale, the Italian chef. We know he's Italian, because he adds an extra "a" to nearly every word ... "Do you like-a my pizza?"

If his speech didn't give him away, his outfit would. He appears to be dressed in a chef's outfit circa 1968 and has the cute little moustache that all Italian men must have.

Bright colors and loud noises add to the festive atmosphere. If you're after adequate pizza, complemented with screaming children and a scary singing mouse, this is your place.

Back to Dining Guide Home Page | Back to the top of the page