First Date Spots

Fellas/Ladies, Can we talk? Have you ever booked a restaraunt for a first date and your date bores you silly..lol....that's why I suggest you give it a test drive first at these spots below...you can chat, get your drink on, have dessert, listen to live music, look at a nice view or people watch..and if you need to rise up, then you can with no buyers remorse...lol...so here are my faves for spots to get to know that special someone..Don't get me wrong..All these spots below are the bomb..But they are more for getting to know your date...Then if you are really feeling them then do your homework and check my list of Top Restaraunts When you are Dating that Special Someone..That way you can save the big bucks for those special evenings with the one you want to take home to Mama..lol...Enjoy!

Rare- Soul Tapas Restaurant 554 Piedmont Ave (404) 541-0665 www.rareatl.com
wow..thank goodness for spots like rare! after a short hiatus the rising star of the Lorenzo Wyche family has re-opened and we all breathe a sigh of relief that this rare soul food tapas spot is back to cater to the discriminating tastes of Atlanta's urban elite. your date will def be impressed! CLOSED FOR RENOVATIONS

Rooftop - The Glenn Hotel - Marietta Street
Get there before 9:30 as it gets crowded. The DJ spins Wed-Sun starting at 8 pm. Sexxy!

UTOPIA Martini & Tapas Lounge 840 Marietta St NW (404) 898-8788 the decor is amazing..prepare to be dazzled...

Harlem Bar 262 Edgewood Ave NE (404) 588-0014 go early and stay late at this tiny slice of a new york brownstone in Sweet Auburn..the food is delicious...sometimes can be long waits for menu orders, but worth the wait...gets crowded after 9:30 pm

Barleys http://www.barleysatl.com/Thurs-Sat.html
I love this place! My #1 spot for shooting pool, kicking back with a group of friends, listening to some of my fave local bands (Quinn and Friends/Indigo Sunset) and looking at the great eye candy...Pick your nite thursday-sunday based on the live entertainment.

Cafe Circa 464 Edgewood Ave (404) 477-0008
a winning combination of laid back sophisticaion and cool urban appeal has livened up Edgewood avenue... founded by a few brothers from morehouse..don't miss the desserts and appetizers for noshing..and the peach cobbler is awesome..i love this place!

FOX Sports Grill - Atlantic Station
Great place to check out the game and get your giggle on at the bar..if you are feeling your date move across the street to Strip..good strong drinks :-)

M Bar Castleberry Hill www.mbaratlanta.com
all the sexy people come to this hip castleberry hill boutique lounge to nosh, drink and hang out..nice vibe, cool ambience and hot people watching...oh and the M is for their signature margaritas, martinis, mojitos, mimosas and music ...turn on your sound and check out the website to get a taste of just how smooth the M Bar is...enjoy!

Churchill Grounds 660 Peachtree St (404) 876-3030
Monday's Afro Sounds and Thursday's Latin Jazz are other good nights to go. Top rate talent play at this sophisticated little club on the weekends…

Brookwood Grill 880 Holcomb Bridge Rd Roswell, GA 30076 (770) 587-0102
Noisy enough that if you and your date are not feeling each other you can still enjoy your food, the ambience and roll out and still have had a good time because of the surroundings...

Martinis at IMAX- Fernbank Museum's IMAX Theatre 767 Clifton Road
Friday's Martinis & Imax is a hot ticket in town, so before you show up for a sold-out show, call (404) 929-6400 to reserve tickets.

Londzell's Jazz & Blues Cafe 2300 Holcomb Bridge Rd Ste 309 (678) 795-9100
The food is average but the music is swinging baby…friday nites are happening...

Sun Dial Restaurant, Bar & View 210 Peachtree St NW Phone: (404) 589-7506
this slowly revolving restaurant and bar--an Atlanta destination for must-impress occasions--offers unparalled views of the city. Some patrons stop by for a cocktail at the bar; others settle in for dinner.

Vino Libro 933 Garrett St Atlanta, GA 30316 Phone: (404) 624-3644 Hip black owned wine bar in the super cool Glenwood park. If you're really feeling your first date, take them next door to Vickery's for dinner..killer appletinis

Cafe Intermezzo 1845 Peachtree Rd NE Phone: (404) 355-0411 Cozy spot for after drinks, dessert and a little (ahem) foreplay :-)

The Chocolate Bar 201 W Ponce de Leon Ave, Suite C Decatur, GA (404) 378-0630 Romantic after dinner spot for satisfying your sweet tooth

Grape Atlantic Station 264 19th St Atlanta, GA 30363 (404) 815-0090 Enjoy live jazz on Thursday nights…sit on the patio for serious people watching..i love the hummus!

Chef Rob's Caribbean Cuisine 5920 Roswell Rd Ste 117 Sandy Springs (404) 250-3737 Inventive caribbean food in a cozy laid back "it's all irie" vibe..the carribean egg rolls are amazing

Gladys Knight & Ron Winan's Chicken & Waffles 7301 Stonecrest Mall (770) 482-6766 Weekdays and dinner are good days to go..expect long waits on the weekend..try the soul food sautee with chicken

The Real Chow Baby 1016 Howell Mill Rd Ste A (Cross Street: 11th Street NW) (404) 815-4900 All you can eat stir fry made to order….you fix it anyway you like and the cooks will whip it up on an open flame…no takeout so go hungry...

Special Spots to take your Boo

Goldfish 4400 Ashford Dunwoody Rd NE Atlanta (770) 671-0100 http://www.heretoserverestaurants.com/
The scoop: Inside are high ceilings, vibrant murals and a sheet of water cascading behind an elegant sushi bar. The restaurant hums with activity but also offers quiet corners for more intimate dining. A Seafood lovers delite!

Blue Ridge Grill 1261 West Paces Ferry Road (404)233-5030 http://www.blueridgegrill.com/ The scoop: Comfortably sophisticated and startlingly realistic replica of an upscale hunting lodge. Pricey but very well done Classic Southern and American dishes.

Redfish Creole Bistro 687 Memorial Dr SE Atlanta (404) 475-1200 http://www.redfishcreole.com/
The scoop: Fairly new, Louisiana-inspired restaurant. Cajun-Creole mix of classics such as gumbo, red beans and rice, jambalaya, etouffee, heavy on the seafood.

Horseradish Grill 4320 Powers Ferry Road NW Atlanta (404) 255-7277 http://www.horseradishgrill.com/ A rehabbed horse stable with cozy rustic charm is the scene. Solid New Southern food is a winner. The restaurant's popular brunch is served Sundays from 11am to 2pm.

Aria 490 E Paces Ferry Rd NE Atlanta (404) 233-7673Cross Street: Maple Drive http://www.aria-atl.com/foodpage.htm
The scoop: A seductively dark bar leads to the expansive dining room, a hip mix of yesteryear architecture and droll postmodern art. "New American"includes twists on old favorites like short ribs, pork soft-shell crabs, and fish. Dessert is delicious!


SAGE on Sycamore 121 Sycamore Street Decatur Square (404) 373-5574 http://www.thebistros.com/menu_download.htm
The Scoop: Turn of the century storefront in Downtown Decatur is home to this casual bistro. Eclectic New American menu. Wednesday night is live jazz!

Wisteria 471 N Highland Ave (404) 525-3363 http://www.wisteria-atlanta.com/menu.aspx The scoop: Intimate VA Highland eatery is attractive and comfortable. Yummy Southern-influenced menu changes seasonally,

The Capital Grille 255 East Paces Ferry Road http://www.thecapitalgrille.com/privateDining/main.asp
The scoop: National chain looks like a gentleman's club: a smoky bar, dark wood paneling, and deer heads mounted throughout the dining room, all with a stunning view of downtown Atlanta. Steakhouse with comfort food side dishes.

Grace 17.20 5155 Peachtree Pkwy Norcross, GA (678) 421-1720 http://www.grace1720.com/main.html The scoop: Tucked away in the Forum at Peachtree Corners, elegant dining and a seasonal menu makes for an irresistible formula. Contemporary American cuisine with a strong suit of seafood.

Nava 3060 Peachtree Road Atlanta (404) 240-1984 http://www.buckheadrestaurants.com/nava.html
The Scoop: Trendy upscale Southwestern restaurant. Food can be hit or miss but the atmosphere and drinks are good.

South City Kitchen 1675 Cumberland Pkwy, Smyrna, Ga 30080 770.435-0700 http://www.southcitykitchen.com/vinings/index.htm
The Scoop: This 2nd location of the wildly popular Midtown icon, is a new Southern restaurant serving fun delicious food like Buttermilk fried chicken, lima bean hummus, goat cheese fried green tomatoes. the Desserts are amazing!

Kyma 3085 Piedmont RoadAtlanta (404) 262-0702 http://www.buckheadrestaurants.com/kyma.html The scoop: Stylish interior makes for a special nite at this upscale Greek restaraunt.

Tierra 1425B Piedmont Ave NE (404) 874-5951 http://www.tierrarestaurant.com/
The Scoop: Tiny cottage serves a hip, diverse crowd the menu explores the flavors of Central and Latin America. Try the luscious très leches cake, refreshing lime ice cream or the seasonal (usually fig or mango) tart.

Sambuca Jazz Café 3102 Piedmont Rd NE (404) 237-5299(404) 237-0207 http://www.sambucarestaurant.com/ The scoop: Sambuca creates a luxurious atmosphere with plush seating and swinging music: jazz, blues, modern, world, straight ahead and vocals. The impressive surroundings lend an air of class to a night of dining and drinking. After work, this is a prime people-watching spot for the Buckhead business crowd. The eclectic cuisine menu is diverse from seafood to Middle Eastern appetizers and thick cuts of red meat. Dine on Friday and Saturdays and skip the $10 cover

Village Tavern 11555 Rainwater Drive Alpharetta, GA 30009-8696(770) 777-6490 www.villagetavern.com This sister restarant to my hometown fave in Bham is excellent..the service is impeccable..the ambience is snuggly to include a fireplace and the food..well..you know your girl would not post it if the food was not AUHMAZING...try the crab dip..and brunch is great too..Alpharetta stand up and take a bow..the Village tavern is a great addition to the neighborhood


Dante's Down the Hatch 3380 Peachtree Rd NEAtlanta, GA 30326 (404) 266-1600 http://www.dantesdownthehatch.com/
The scoop: This is a fun place complete with a full-scale cutaway of a sailing ship. The menu is quite electic with Fondue being the highlight. Live jazz is the big draw and the bands perform six days a week.

Stoney River Legendary Steaks 5800 State Bridge Rd (Corner of Medlock Bridge Road) Duluth (770) 497-6676 10524 Alpharetta Hwy (Corner of Holcomb Bridge) Roswell, GA 30076-1429 (678) 461-7900 http://www.stoneyriver.com/legend.php
The Scoop: Stoney River looks and feels like an upscale lodge. The steak is delicious and the seafood is delectable. And the bread is wonderful! Bring your money, honey, cause it shole ain’t cheap… This is one of my favorite steakhouses!

Lenox Grill 3393 Peachtree Rd NEAtlanta, GA 30326 (404) 442-8891 http://www.theclubhouse.com/
The scoop: The old fashioned diner is yet upscale and an easy choice for dining at Lenox Mall, relaxed yet elegant, the food and the service is consistent. American comfort dishes are inventive and satisfying.

Steel Restaurant & Lounge 950 West Peachtree St Ste 255 Atlanta, GA 30309 (404) 477-6111 http://www.steelatlanta.com/ Steel's Pan-Asian menu is served in a wow! inducing setting of swanky teak wood and modern interior.

Aqua Blue 1564 Holcomb Bridge RoadRoswell, GA 30076 (770) 643-8886 http://www.aquablueatl.com/ Shimmering aqua light washes over this visually dramatic suburban restaurant. The menu offers cuisine from around the world...The sushi bar rocks!

5 Seasons Brewing 5600 Roswell Rd NEAtlanta, GA 30342 (404) 255-5911
http://www.5seasonsbrewing.com/?q=node/195
The scoop: Five Seasons is more than a place to knock back beer. An elegant interior beckons with softly lit tables and an expansive dining area. The menu encompasses dishes from around the world. The grilled pizza is not to be missed. After dinner, kick back and relax in the laid-back downstairs bar, which has darts and pool tables.

Blackstone 4686 South Atlanta Rd Vinings, GA 30080 (404) 794-6100 http://www.blackstoneatlanta.com/main.asp
The Scoop: An obscure location on the back edge of an Atlanta Road strip mall is an unlikely location for this upscale, yet easygoing Smyrna steakhouse.

River Room Restaurant & Tavern 4403 Northside Pkwy NW Ste 150 (404) 233-5455 http://www.riverroom.com/
The scoop: Located in the Post Riverside complex between Buckhead and Vinings, this tucked away spot is a popular choice for daters of all ages.The seafood selection is dreamy!

Ten Degrees South 4183 Roswell Rd NEAtlanta, GA 30342-3715 (404) 705-8870 http://www.10degreessouth.com/
The scoop: If you’re looking for a WAY different dining experience, this is it! The dining rooms, which are separated by a fireplace, feature earth-toned walls, ceiling fans and indigenous artwork and tapestries. The only restaraunt of its kind in Atlanta serving South African cuisine.
Dishes here are packed with intriguing flavors. Squid comes in peri-peri sauce, Bobotie spring rolls feature sweetened ground beef in a fried wrapper, served with fruit chutney, Durban chicken curry. Try Diane's Delight, a buttery sponge cake served warm with ice cream. Definitely a gastronomic adventure!

Oceanaire Seafood Room 1100 Peachtree St NW (404) 475-2277Cross Street: 12th Street http://www.theoceanaire.com/
The scoop: Lavish seafood restaurant with the prices to match. Some of the freshest seafood in atlanta. First stop for impressing that someone special!

Two Urban Licks 820 Ralph McGill Blvd (404) 522-4622 Cross Street: Freedom Parkway http://www.twourbanlicks.com/index-home.htm The Scoop: This sexxy restaraunt hums with activity but at the same time casts a spell with its subtle mysterious interior. Bulbous red lanterns and flickering wall sconces cast a spell, and helps to pull together the entire vibe of the funky warehouse feel. LIve blues nightly.The restaurant is tucked away from the road. Follow Somerset until you pull all the way up to the valet platform. New american menu. Dress to impress!

Paschal's Restaurant 180 Northside Dr SW Unit BAtlanta, GA 30313 (404) 525-2023
In short: Castleberry Hill fine-dining establishment complete with white linen tablecloths serves up Soul food and seafood specialties. Paschal's is a grander restaurant than its namesake predecessor located nearby. Dress appropriately.

Bistro VG 70 W Crossville Rd Roswell, GA 30075 (770) 993-1156
nice place for a casual date...gorgeous patio and great bar..try the desserts...

Feast 314 E Howard Ave Decatur (404) 377-2000(404) 377-2747 http://www.feastatlanta.com/INDEX.html Feast offers Mediterranean dishes and a cozy vibe. The Mediterranean-inspired food is offered mostly as small plates and thin-crust personal-sized pizzas. Stick with the dessert specials from Southern Sweets Bakery.

Carpe Diem Bistro 105 Sycamore Pl Decatur, GA 30030 (404) 687-9696 http://www.apresdiem.com/carpe/food_menu.html
The scoop: Ultra-stylish eatery is located elegant, industrial space makes a dramatic statement. From the entryway, stairs lead down to a striking dining room with soaring ceilings and lots of glass. Banquettes line the walls, while sleek mahogany-stained tables fill the room. In contrast, low-slung couches cluster around coffee tables in the intimate bar area. Service is friendly, if somewhat flaky. The well-rounded menu works for sampling. Fried calamari is well executed: tender, not chewy, with light breading and a piquant marinara for dipping. A mound of crispy shoestring fries, served with garlic-parsley sour cream, is perfect for sharing. Entrees are hit-or-miss. Tender, flavorful filet of beef isn't cooked to order. Wood-grilled chicken breast is dry, but nicely sauced in a rosemary au jus. Grilled sashimi tuna steak delights; served rare, it's topped with a spicy Thai-influenced sauce. For dessert, order the molten chocolate cake.

Sweet Devil Moon 980 Piedmont AvenueAtlanta, GA 30309 (404) 347-3600Cross Street: 10th St The scoop: THIS IS A NEW LOCATION. THEY MOVED FROM MEAD STREET. http://www.sdmatlanta.com/index.htmThe scoop: This neighborhood tapas bar has the look and feel of a hip lounge. The menu is short but a diverse selection of Latin favorites and the cocktail menu, including Sangrias and Margaritas is sure to please.

Woodfire Grill 1782 Cheshire Bridge Rd NEAtlanta, GA 30324-4922 (404) 347-9055 http://www.woodfiregrill.com/about.asp
The Scoop: Dinner nightly. Does not serve lunch. A large wood-fired oven dominates the dining room done in warm, coppery tones. The open kitchen is usually manned by chef Michael Tuohy. The diverse menu, which focuses on fresh organically grown local ingredients, changes daily. Try the woodfired pizza.

Killer Creek Restaurant 1700 Mansell Rd Alpharetta (770) 649-0064 http://www.raysrestaurants.com/rkc/index.html
The scoop: The usual chophouse design is refreshingly updated along with a mouthwatering menu of steaks and seafood. Desserts are outstanding and enormous. Killer Creek holds theme nights. Tuesday is scotch and cigars; Wednesday is ladies' night, with discounts on appetizers and gift drawings; and Thursday is beach night, with ocean-inspired drinks and song. The Sunday brunch is worth making the drive!


One. Midtown Kitchen 559 Dutch Valley Rd NE (404) 892-4111 http://www.onemidtownkitchen.com/index-home.htm
The Scoop: Theatrical, urban and designed to impress, this striking restaurant is situated on the edge of Piedmont Park. The menu centers on fresh, seasonal ingredients, with special emphasis on small plates. Take advantage of the complimentary valet.

The Cafe at East Andrews 56 East Andrews #10 Atlanta (404) 869-1132 http://www.eastandrews.com/main.php?page=home The scoop: Stroll leisurely through a European-style courtyard complete with a picturesque fountain and make your way to the welcoming wood-paneled dining room. Serving New American fare, with delectable seafood selections.

Nino's Cucina Italiana 1931 Cheshire Bridge Rd (404) 874-6505 http://www.ninosatlanta.com/
The Scoop: They have the distinction as Atlanta's oldest Italian restaraunt. Cozy and family owned, the menu resonates with Italian favorites. Don't miss the Dessert pastry cart!

Hudson Grille - 4400 Ashford-Dunwoody RdAtlanta, GA 30346770.350.0134 Perimeter Mall http://www.hudsongrille.com/index-2.html Newly opened bar and grill occupies the former Garrison's space at Perimeter Mall. A sports enthusiasts mecca with more than 70 giant plasma TV screens, the menu is abound with tried and true bar food like wings and burgers, salads and a decent array of entrees including seafood, pasta and steaks. Good desserts from Metrotainment Cafe bakeries

Wahoo! A Decatur Grill 1042 W College Ave Decatur (404) 373-3331 http://www.wahoogrilldecatur.com/photo_gallery.html
The scoop: Situated near the train tracks, this neighborhood joint exudes a cozy,rustic feel. Wahoo's menu features fresh catches with changing daily specials. For an extra special experience request a table in or outside on the patio...Delicious and romantic!