The bustling, cosmopolitan city of Atlanta has a thriving arts and culture scene, hot nightlife and a plethora of top-notch accommodations and dining choices. Visitors will find some of the best restaurants in the south, from casual barbecue joints to elegant bistros. Dining choices abound, but if you’re looking for a romantic place to celebrate a special occasion, there are a few intimate Atlanta restaurants you shouldn't miss.
This elegant, contemporary eatery, located in the upscale Buckhead neighborhood, is considered one of the top in Atlanta. The restaurant is a mix of modern and traditional décor, with ornate woodwork, rich brown accent walls and white linens. Award-winning chef Gerry Klaskala prefers “slow-cooking,” braising, roasting and simmering dishes to bring out complex flavors. The menu is updated daily to incorporate fresh, local ingredients, but may include signature dishes like the warm lobster cocktail, braised beef short ribs and slow-roasted pork. The waitstaff will be happy to suggest a wine, either by the glass or bottle, to pair with your food.
Aria
490 E Paces Ferry Road Northeast
Atlanta, GA 30305
404-233-7673
aria-atl.com
This longstanding restaurant, under the helm of award-winning chef Olivier De Busschere, has some of the best views in the city. Perched on the 30th floor of the Hilton Atlanta, the stylish dining room offers a birds-eye view of downtown. The restaurant, which opened in 1976, has won numerous awards, including being named one of the Distinguished Restaurants of North America in 2009, and receiving the four star award from AAA. Start with popular appetizers like the beef tenderloin carpaccio, veal sweetbreads and black trumpet mushrooms or a platter of artisanal cheeses. The menu changes frequently, but may include entrees like pan-seared Norwegian halibut, herb crusted rack of lamb and marinated venison tenderloin. Four-course and eight-course prix fixe menus are also available.
Nicolai’s Roof
255 Courtland Street Northeast
Atlanta, GA 30303
404-221-6362
nicolaisroof.com
Step into this cozy eatery in Brookhaven and you’ll think you’ve arrived in Tuscany. The intimate dining room has Venetian plaster walls, rich woods and antique urns. European candle chandeliers twinkle over white, linen-topped tables. Chef Matt Swickerath prepares classic northern Italian dishes with a few modern twists. Start with appetizers like the beef carpaccio and arugula salad, or the roasted garlic mussels. House-made pasta courses include roasted butternut squash ravioli and agnolotti with short ribs. Signature entrée dishes include roasted Alaskan halibut with fennel risotto, braised rabbit and grilled veal chop.
Valenza
1441 Dresden Dr.
Atlanta, GA 30319
404-969-3233
valenzarestaurant.com
