Thompson Atlanta – Buckhead is proud to serve as a host venue for the USBG Presents World Class Sponsored By DIAGEO, which brings its highly anticipated national finals to Atlanta this month.
From May 18 to May 20, 2025, the city will welcome the Top 30 regional bartenders from across the country as they compete in the USBG Presents World Class U.S. Finals, a multi-day event designed to test the creativity, technical skill, and knowledge of the nation’s best mixologists. Competitions and programming will take place within Thompson Atlanta – Buckhead, offering guests a front-row seat to the craft cocktail world’s most exciting showdown.
Following a series of immersive and challenging rounds, 10 finalists will be selected to continue vying for the title of 2025 U.S. Bartender of the Year. The national champion will go on to represent the U.S. at the World Class Global Finals in Toronto, Canada this August, competing against top bartenders from more than 50 countries.
“We’re honored to be part of such a prestigious event and welcome bartending talent from across the country to Thompson Atlanta – Buckhead,” said Donte Johnson, General Manager of Thompson Atlanta – Buckhead. “Our hotel celebrates craft, culture, and community – values deeply shared with this competition and the bartending profession at large.”
The World Class competition, sponsored by global spirits leader Diageo, will take place exclusively at Thompson Atlanta – Buckhead. While select off-site events – including the Top 10 Dinner and Winner Announcement – will be held at other locations, the main competition is open to the public for consumers 21+. See the full schedule here.
“World Class is more than a competition – it’s a celebration of bartenders at the highest level,” said Bo Shuff, Executive Director of the United States Bartenders’ Guild. “We’re honored to host this event as part of the USBG Bar Summit and to partner with Thompson Atlanta – Buckhead in welcoming and showcasing these professionals from across the country as we celebrate their craft. It’s a powerful reflection of how education and community – core to the USBG’s mission, continue to shape the future of our industry.”
The United States Bartenders’ Guild (USBG), a nonprofit with thousands of members and chapters in nearly 50 cities, including Atlanta, has long championed professional development within the beverage industry. The USBG Presents World Class Sponsored by DIAGEO event not only showcases exceptional bartending talent but also highlights emerging trends in the industry, from sustainability and low-ABV cocktails to bartenders’ growing roles as educators and community leaders. In celebration of this year’s U.S. Finals, World Class will be hosting a Cocktail Festival that will be serving specialty drinks at various bars and restaurants in Atlanta to engage the local community and build buzz around the competition. A list of participating bars and restaurants can be found here.
Cocktails created for the duration of this year’s competition can be found on Instagram using the handle @WorldClassUS.
For additional information about the program and for details on the upcoming global competition, follow hashtags #worldclassus and #worldclass2025 on Twitter and Instagram, and visit worldclass.usbg.org and www.usbg.org.
Bar Margot is hosting a one-night-only takeover by Bandista, the acclaimed speakeasy from Four Seasons Hotel Houston recently named one of North America’s 50 Best Bars (#59 on the 2025 list) on Tuesday, May 13 from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. Known for its inventive cocktails, rare spirits, and high-touch hospitality, Bandista is bringing the heat—and the mezcal—to Midtown for one unforgettable night. From a macadamia- and pineapple-laced Colada Cosmico to a toasted bolillo–infused Patrón Reposado creation, each drink on the featured menu is a nod to Bandista’s playful precision and boundary-pushing style. Expect impeccable cocktails, creative flair, and Bar Margot’s signature laid-back energy. No cover; cocktails available à la carte. Bar Margot is located inside Four Seasons Hotel Atlanta at 75 14th Street NE. For more information on the Bar Margot x Bandista pop-up or to book a table, visit www.barmargotatl.com or call (404) 881-5913. Follow along at @barmargotatl.
Refined tasting experiences feature four whiskeys paired with global tastes each
Whiskey 101: Old World Whiskey: Thursday, April 10 from 6:30 to 8 p.m.
Whiskey 101:New World Whiskey: Thursday, May 1 from 6:30 to 8 p.m.
Epicurean Theatre at Epicurean Atlanta – 1117 W Peachtree Street NW, Atlanta, GA (Complimentary two-hour valet parking provided to Epicurean Theatre guests)
Experience the taste and aromas that make Old World and New World whiskeys truly unique at Epicurean Atlanta’s “Whiskey 101: Old World Whiskey” and “Whiskey 101: New World Whiskey” events this April and May. The journey begins with “Old World Whiskey” in the British Isles, the birthplace of whiskey distillation, with an in-depth exploration of Irish Blended and Pot Still Whiskey, as well as Blended and Single Malt Scotch Whisky. Part two focuses on “New World Whiskey,” and delves into American whiskey traditions, featuring bourbon, rye, and Tennessee whiskey, as well as variations from Japan and India.
These unique tasting experiences feature a selection of four whiskeys per event, accompanied by curated small plates reflecting the geography and flavor profiles of the region. Tickets are $50 per person (21+) per event and can be purchased online.
The Old World British Isles-inspired menu includes:
Au Gratin Crostini paired with a Blended Scotch
Sweet Potato Fritters paired with Single Malt Scotch
Smoked Salmon paired with Irish Blend
Fried Pickle paired with Irish Pot Still
The New World American-inspired menu includes:
Sourdough Pretzel Bites with an American Rye
Cheese Grits Fritter paired with Southern Kentucky Bourbon
Just north of Atlanta in Braselton, there is a pair of castles where you can enjoy wine and a winery tour, accommodations in a beautiful Inn, gorgeous grounds to explore, and relax in a spa. Chateau Elan is one of the best Georgia resorts for a romantic getaway night or weekend getaway.
Inn of Chateau Elan
Inn of Chateau Elan will make you feel like royalty. Passing by rows of wine vines, the Inn of Chateau Elan sits just steps beside one of Georgia’s best known wine makers. As you walk through the main entrance, you’re greeted with an opulent expansive lobby space, gorgeous marble, three massive fireplaces, a plethora of comfortable lounging areas, and soaring ceilings. You will feel like a queen or king arriving to your palace.
Then, around the corner from the lobby, the atrium space shared by the restaurant and conference center is breathtaking. Take a large spiral showpiece staircase down to the lower level. In front of you is a cascading water feature. To the right is Versailles, one of the most stunning hotel restaurants I’ve ever seen with sweeping ceilings, soaring bar, and wood detailing. To the left is several cozy seating areas to relax in the space. My favorite is the blue reading nook filled with books and a beautiful blue wall. And don’t forget to look up. A flock of twinkling lights illuminate day and night. Stunning.
In the room, spacious accommodations wait for you to retire for the day. Large, comfortable beds are the centerpiece of the room. The bathroom is gorgeous with marble sink, shower, and a huge soaking tub. And don’t miss out on the very large closet and stocked mini fridge.
On the Inn grounds, they also have a large pool and fire pit area. The front desk has games and equipment for the many amenities that Chateau Elan has to offer. There is never a dull moment when you explore Chateau Elan.
The Winery
The central and main amenity at Chateau Elan is their winery because that is where it all started. When John and I visited, we enjoyed their premium classic tasting in the elegant chateau in their property. The winery is the heart of Chateau Elan! They have tastings of all sizes, wine by the glass, and bottles to take home from muscadine grapes grown on sight and a wide selection of varietals grown in California. You will be on cloud WINE here!
The wines we got on the premium classic wine tasting included bubbly and bright brut sparkling wine (fave), followed by the Pinot Grigio Reserve with notes of pear and apple (second fave). We also enjoyed the fruity, sweet rose sparkling wine, citrus and minerality sauvignon blanc, light, crips, and slight oak Chardonnay reserve, and the Greco with notes of olive oil. John’s favorite was the sweet Moscato sparkling.
Chateau Elan Dining options
While we were there, we explored the many dining options they the resort had to offer and were over the moon! Each had its own flare and inspiration for every taste and palate.
Starting with the Versailles Restaurant, it is one of the most beautiful hotel restaurants from soaring wood paneled bar, marble dotted with bright blue booths, and soaring atrium ceiling! This casual-ish spot serves up some tasty appetizers like a full-on meat and cheese plate, or decadent, smoky smoked salmon deviled eggs. We’d highly recommend the silky and melt in your mouth sea bass loaded with an earthy pea risotto and dousing of creamy white wine cream sauce. Or you can’t go wrong with their rich and meaty lamb shank with mashed potatoes!
Our favorite of the restaurants on the Chateau Elan grounds is second, Marc Restaurant & Bar. Here you can dine in the winery castle at this restaurant with their southern-inspired chophouse and brunch fare. We had brunch here on the first morning and loved it. It has something for everyone from the spicy and sweet hot honey chicken biscuits or my favorite the duck confit hash loaded with potatoes, fried onions, and savory egg. John opted for the stellar sweet crunchy waffle board loaded with fruit, nuts, chocolate and whipped cream, then drizzled with syrup.
For dinner on our first night, we enjoyed the best dining experience at the Marc Restaurant, as well. We started with fried green tomatoes that are crunchy outside and tender inside. It is paired with a delicious spicy jalapeno ranch sauce and some funky goat cheese. On top of that we tried the BBQ braised short rib, a sweet barbecue pulled short rib on top of a tasty baguette, rich balsamic and a sweet and tangy tomato jam. Plus, the Herbist floral gin cocktail is refreshing and light. Floral and herbaceous green chartreuse, a hint of honey, sage, and lime.
The main courses we tried at Marc’s were the tender grilled lamb chops and the perfectly cooked ribeye steak. The lamb chops were my favorite, thick and tender, seasoned lamb, that is one of the best I’ve had in a while. The ribeye steak is again, perfectly cooked and seasoned! They send out a bunch of sauces for their meats and I really enjoyed the tangy and spicy horseradish cream and herbaceous chimichurri for the lamb and the rich demi for the steak. On the side, I got the brussels sprouts that are tender, sweet, but have a kick on the end and the flavorful, rich, braised collards. We ended the night with the delicious, sweet, brown sugar port they make at Chateau Elan. And we can’t get over the service at Marc’s! It was perfect.
One afternoon, we took a stop for lunch at Paddy’s Irish Pub. It was originally built in Dublin and moved here and reconstructed on the property in 1997! This cozy little pub offers phenomenal Irish fare from their crispy, flaky, well seasoned fish and chips to hearty, creamy, and tangy Reuben sandwiches to pints of beer, a pineapple whiskey sour, The McCully cocktail, and a killer creamy and decadent Irish cream cocktail!
When we were leaving, we stopped by Le Petit Cafe for a to-go bite. It is located in the lobby of the Inn, a quick coffee and pastry spot for grab and go! Delightful banana bread, sweet muffins, and a large choice of coffee options. While you’re there take in some retail therapy in the little shop attached or take your coffee outside and relax in the patio.
Chateau Elan Amenities
Chateau Elan is all about their amenities. When we arrived and received the resort inclusions, we were blown away by just how much they give you for your time there.
The Spa at Chateau Elan is the premiere one available for purchase with spa treatments, day passes, and even a clean restaurant, Fleur de Lis! They have so many things to do during a day pass like a hot tub and indoor pool, sauna and steam rooms, spacious and gorgeous locker rooms where you’ll get your slippers and robe for the day. On top of all that, free welcome champagne, hot teas, and a snack bar. All of this is with a small lake backdrop outside. They have hammocks for relaxing outside, as well as small cabanas so you can gaze at the lake.
Overnight guests are invited to a free noon winery tour where you’ll go behind the scenes to hear more about the property history and how it became a winery. You’ll go behind the scenes to see where they ferment, barrel, and hold private tastings to learn more about their process and their wine. The tour guide is extremely funny, and we enjoyed every minute of it!
Other amenity highlights include a resort pool and firepit area around the Inn. They have a recreational club with tennis, basketball, bocce courts, and volleyball with equipment available! They have a driving range with access to use it and receive one complimentary range token. If you love golf, use the par 3 golf course with a $15 green fee. they also have resort bikes for use and a one-hour tennis court reservation. But one of the coolest is the complimentary 8 am wellness class Monday to Saturday.
Newest Pop-Up at The Blind Pig Parlour Bar Boasts Nostalgic Delights with Small Plates, Crafty Cocktails, and More
Atlantans are cordially invited to experience a summer-long “Beach Ball” at The Blind Flamingo, the latest pop-up experience from The Blind Pig Parlour Bar, beginning Friday, June 28. Inspired by the Apple TV series “Palm Royale,” The Blind Flamingo is a vibrant, retro paradise featuring nostalgic summer vibes. Guests will indulge in various small plates, desserts, and dazzling cocktails.
The Blind Flamingo boasts an enticing menu perfect for nibbling and sharing. Savory small plates include
slow-roasted pork belly with sweet-and-spicy glaze and pickled red onions
lobster ceviche with citrus-cured lobster, tomatoes, red onions, and cilantro
heirloom tomato caprese with Milton’s Cuisine & Cocktails Garden tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, basil pesto, and balsamic drizzle
strawberry shortcake and key lime dip served with graham crackers, animal crackers, and pineapple
The Blind Flamingo’s drink menu is as stunning as it is delicious. Guests will enjoy refreshing concoctions such as:
the show’s signature grasshopper (hold the insulin)
pink señoritas
Palm Beach punch
coconut rum mojito
The Blind Flamingo will be open Wednesday and Thursday from 5 p.m. to midnight, Friday and Saturday from 5 p.m. to 1 a.m., and Sunday from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. Reservations are strongly encouraged.
The Blind Flamingo is located at 128 East Andrews Dr., NE, in Atlanta. For more information and reservations, visit theblindpigparlourbar.com.
Varuni Napoli is gearing up for the spring season! Dig in to the delicious details below:
National Pi Day: In celebration of the superior circle-shaped food (and the mathematical number 3.14), Varuni will be offering $3.14 Peronis all day long with the purchase of an artisan pizza. Available at both locations on Thursday, March 14. Additionally, patrons near and far can stock up on Varuni’s crowd favorites from Thursday, March 14 through Sunday, March 17 during Goldbelly’s Annual Pi Day 20% off sale.
Patio Opening: As the weather warms up, Varuni’s Midtown patio is ready to welcome patrons back for a unique alfresco dining experience. No reservation needed, up the stairs and around the corner visitors can soak up the sun on the intimate and secluded patio surrounding a beautifully, rustic old tree and ivy-covered wall. It’s a little hidden oasis in the bustling city! Walking the BeltLine? Enjoy Varuni Napoli on Krog Street Market’s covered patio.
To-Go Cocktails: Take picnics, game day tailgates and park hangs to the next level with Varuni’s portable, pouched cocktails! Available in three of the pizzeria’s crowd-favorite libations including the Fresca Verde, Negroni, and Julia, 6-pack or 12-packs are available for pickup at Midtown with 24-hour notice. 404-709-2690 to order.
Neapolitan-Style Brunch: Skip out on pancakes + waffles at the next brunch outing, and opt for a delicious Neapolitan-style breakfast pie instead. Varuni offers three brunch pizzas including:
Fichissima: Features housemade fig jam, arugula, Prosciutto di Parma DOP, fresh mozzarella + Pecorino Romano
Colazione Americana: Offers all the traditional American breakfast favorites including sausage, egg, and cheese…with an Italian spin that includes pancetta and black truffle-infused olive oil
Occhio Di Blue: Topped with the perfect blend of San Marzano tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, truffle potatoes, marinated beef + more, with a fried egg front and center
Weekly Pizza Specials: Varuni’smainstay menu is delicious all on its own, but have you heard they also offer unique specials every week to give guests something new to look forward to? From pizzas topped with zucchini and Italian pancetta, to pies that feature a roasted red pepper sauce and fresh basil pesto, Varuni’s weekly specials are full of flavors that Atlantans won’t find anywhere else! Follow Varuni on Instagram,Facebook, and Twitter to see the weekly specials that are announced every Monday.
Weekly Wine Specials: It’s wine o’clock somewhere, and at Varuni, it’s on Tuesdays and Wednesdays! Head over to the Midtown location where the pizzeria offers weekly wine specials. With the purchase of an artisan pie, every Tuesday they offer half-priced bottles of Montepulciano and every Wednesday they offer half-priced bottles of Pinot Grigio. Dine-in offer only.
Krog Market Exclusives: You may have your “regular” order at Varuni, but did you know there are some exclusive offerings at the pizzeria’s Krog location? Next time at Krog try:
Nonna Mia Pizza: Fresh buffalo mozzarella, San Marzano ragu, Nonna’s homemade meatballs, Pecorino Romano + basil
Krog Fired Calzone: Fried pizza stuffed with fresh mozzarella, Pecorino Romano, basil + two toppings of choice
Easter: Level up your Easter dessert game with Varuni’s DIY cannoli kits! Perfect for family fun, each kit includes cannoli shells, the signature ricotta filling, and a variety of toppings like Nutella, chocolate chips, sprinkles, and pistachios. 404-709-2690 to order, 24-hour notice required. Midtown exclusive.
In-House Horoscope Readings, Giveaways and Tasty Treats Will Accompany Launch of 12 Zodiac-Inspired Cocktails
It is written in the stars: Your 3rd Spot is the place to be Wednesday, Oct. 4 7:30pm. Atlanta’s best social dining experience—and one of the nation’s top bars—has launched a new menu of 12 zodiac-inspired cocktails aligned to the tastes of each sign. To celebrate, it will host a party with zodiac-themed giveaways and treats. Guests can make connections with compatible signs over arcade, board and yard games and get a tailored horoscope reading from an in-house astrologist.
Some highlights of the cocktail menu include:
ATLemon Drop: If your birthday falls on the day of the party, you might want to order the Libra-inspired ATLemon Drop, a refreshing and balanced blend of Reposado tequila, limoncello and lemon juice.
Greenhouse Mule: Inspired by the outgoing Scorpio, the intense flavors of ginger beer and candied ginger are paired with elderflower liqueur and fresh lime juice.
Dr’ink: The duality of the Gemini personality is the concept of this black-and-white cocktail made with rum, mezcal and cinnamon-charcoal agave and served with a Y3S-themed temporary tattoo.
Centenni’Ol Fashioned: An opinionated Aquarius will gravitate to this Georgia-inspired twist on the old fashioned made with house-infused peach bourbon, aromatic bitters and orange zest.
ecause Your 3rd Spot is a social experience, four shareable drinks have been developed to encompass the four elements of the zodiac signs: earth, fire, water and air. These drinks are presented creatively and camera-ready for a memorable TikTok or Instagram post. Some highlights include:
Love Bird Cage (Air): Love is in the air with hibiscus-infused tequila, passion fruit liqueur, lime juice, cranberry juice and soda water served in beautiful “love bird” glasses that are brought to the guest in a birdcage.
Cocktail Tr33 (Earth): For the guest who wants to try everything, the Cocktail Tr33 features a sampling of five best-selling cocktails: the Westside margarita, Peachtree tea, ATLemon Drop, mai tai and sangria.
The full cocktail menu can be found here along with a link to each sign’s corresponding daily horoscope. For more information, please visit your3rdspot.com.
Jungle-Meets-Beach at Buckhead Speakeasy with Tropical Décor, Refreshing Drinks, and Island Bites
The Blind Pig Parlour Bar amps up the summer vibes with the return of its Playa Pig pop-up designed to whisk guests away to an alluring tropical island state of mind. The Playa Pig will serve up tropical chic, jungle disco vibes inspired by Tulum, Mexico, along with tempting drinks and a menu of Yucatan-themed bites.
The Buckhead speakeasy is revamping its Victorian décor to entice those longing to get away to a wild, wanderlust escape. Guests can look forward to creative, refreshing cocktails served with treats and sweets inspired by the unmistakable flavors of the tropics.
Food items will include:
Fresh pineapple seasoned with Tajin, pickled jalapeños, and lime
Pork pastor empanadas with spicy jalapeño and pineapple crema
Crispy shrimp and poblano fritters with chipotle aioli
Crab tostadas crab tossed with heirloom tomatoes, jalapeños, cabbage, roasted red peppers, avocado, and lemon cilantro aioli, served on crispy tostadas
Churro bites served with dark chocolate and vanilla bean dipping sauce
Ginger Watermelon Margarita with el Jimador blanco, watermelon juice, lemon juice, ginger syrup
Coco Loco Los Sundays coconut tequila, Martini & Rossi Fiero, tangerine infused cream
Spicy Paloma Spritz el Jimador blanco, grapefruit juice, ancho reyes, hell fire bitters, fresno pepper agave, sparkling rosé
Cool as a Cuke cucumber vodka, fresno agave syrup, lime juice, bubbles
Twilight in Tulum with Old Forester bourbon, sorel, pineapple-dandelion syrup, lemon juice, egg white, citrus-chamomile bitters
Playa Punch with Pimm’s, Velvet Falerum, PAMA, bénédictine, pineapple juice, fever tree ginger beer
Sublime Sunset shot with mango infused vodka, smoked paprika-brown sugar syrup, lemon juice
Sunburn shot with Banhez mezcal, Chareau aloe liqueur, dandelion-pineapple syrup, lime juice, dark rum floater
The Playa Pig will be open Tuesday-Saturday beginning Friday, June 9 from 5 p.m. until late. Reservations are strongly recommended through OpenTable. Walk-ins are available at the bar on a first-come, first-served basis. The Playa Pig may be reserved for small parties and special events any day of the week.
The Playa Pig is located at 128 East Andrews Dr., NE in Atlanta. For more information, visit theblindpigparlourbar.com.
Nestled in a secret garden off College Ave, Wahoo! Grill has been serving Decatur for 18 years and we know why they love it. The moment you walk in the door you’re greeted with an indoor-outdoor vibe, in the main dining space, while outside a large patio that feels secluded. On the menu, a wide variety of options abound from Wahoo fish to lamb to southern staples, as well as a great cocktail menu and desserts. Let’s explore.
Starting with their signature Grilled Wahoo Sofrito that’s tender yet meaty and topped with a tomato forward Spanish sofrito sauce, earthy, crunchy asparagus, and an earthy, seasoned savory risotto underneath. OR go for their new menu item, the grilled half rack of lamb, our favorite bite of the day! Succulent and tender, well-seasoned lamb, the rhubarb sauce underneath is sweet and juxtaposed the savory meat. Then, paired with a sharp and herbaceous potatoes au gratin and earthy asparagus!
Plus, Wahoo! Grill’s cocktail program is “perfection” with this Pina en la pina is a fresh and tangy pina colada style drink with a great tang, cream, and dash of nutmeg. And for the finale, make sure to sample the bread pudding; it’s grandmother’s recipe! It is warm and rich, stuffed with raisins topped with a creamy bourbon glaze. OMG!
Other menu highlights include the Pimento cheese Fritters! They are sinful crispy bites stuffed with pimento cheese inside then a sharp and a sweet spicy tomato sauce underneath! Also, their solid fried green tomatoes that are crispy, perfectly breaded outside, slightly crisp yet tender tomato inside, then a balsamic drizzle for brightness and cool goat cheese to round out the bite. They typically come with shrimp, but we got without.
Fried chicken, a staple of Wahoo! Grill’s menu, is plump and tender, and has a great crunch outside. Paired with collard greens that are rich, spicy and savory, as well as crunchy warm fries. Finish it off with, A crime of passion, an herbaceous and floral gin cocktail mixed with juicy passion fruit and lime, then a rose petal rim to dress it up!
Wahoo SafritoPatioFried ChickenInsideFried Green TomatoesPimento Cheese FrittersPina en la PinaA Crime of PassionRack of LambBread Pudding
The moment you step in the delightful Pan-Latin restaurant Bazati on the Atlanta Beltline you’re immersed in vintage French decor, marble, luxurious lighting, and a beautiful bar area with leather seats and lounge area! Upstairs is Estrello Rooftop with more pastel, light Latin vibes, vibrant patio, and mezcal behind the bar. This one-two punch of Latin dining is exquisite! Everything is elevated from their sensational cocktails like the floral Houdini, decadent decaf Tequila me Softy espresso martini, and the all-new tangy Wren’s Nest. Then, phenomenal small plates from their loaded charcuterie board, creamy polenta, or their bright Strawberry Maple salad. Their entrees are sure to wow with their earthy Double Stuffed Ravioli, flavorful Brazilian Picanha, and our favorite, the juicy Pork Osso Bucco. Let’s take a trip.
We will kick it off with the trio of cocktails we tried: Houdini, Tequila me Softly, and Wren’s Nest. The Houdini will disappear before your eyes as it is herbaceous, floral up front and balanced with bright and tangy on the back. So good! If you’re looking for a new cocktail to try, go for the Wren’s Nest that will be on their spring menu. It is boozy bourbon that starts warm and ends tangy and bright, slightly sweet watermelon shrub and a hint of ginger. It’s complete. The favorite cocktail of the night was the DECAF Tequila me Softly espresso martini. Decadent and dark chocolate, bitter and creamy, this is sure to please all those coffee lovers out there. You couldn’t tell it was decaf at all and no jitters! We will be back for more!
On to the small plates that John and I shared from the charcuterie board, crispy polenta, and Strawberry Maple Salad. Starting with the loaded Charcuterie board that is stuffed with three meats with different flavor profiles, an array of cheese from soft to hard, salty, crispy almonds, sweet honeycomb, mixed berries, and crackers. After that we got the Crispy Polenta, which is our favorite of the small plates with a gamut of flavors from creamy to buttery to tangy to earthy and bright. The polenta bed itself is creamy and buttery with a crispy top, then it is topped with creamy and sharp cheese. A dollop of olive tempade gives it a slight earthiness to finish out the bite. Love. For our salad, we got the Strawberry Maple, which starts earthy and crunchy with the lettuce, and then is sweet from the maple, tangy from the strawberry. It is finished off with crunchy almonds and sharp blue cheese.
In between the small plates and our entrees, we were treated to the seriously divine Double Stuffed Ravioli. Holy Truffle! Tender Handmade in-house ravioli stuffed with earthy mushroom and enveloped in a sea of creamy, truffle-forward sauce that will definitely WOW you. This is a must try dish bursting with flavor!
Of the entrees, we got the phenomenal Pork Osso Bucco that is meat heaven with tender, fall off the bone pork, perfectly seasoned and surrounded by a moat of rich, savory jus and stuffed with eggplant, celery, and other root vegetables. It was the favorite dish of the day! John got the Brazilian Picanha that is flavorful and well-seasoned meat topped with a bright chimichurri, bright onions, and paired with crunchy fries. On the side we got two very good sides, one being the baby carrots and the other seasonal fiddle heads. The baby carrots are super sweet and candied and laid on a bed of creamy and sharp Greek yogurt. It is sweet and creamy and sharp, a winning combo. Then, fiddle heads are something neither of us had ever had before. They’re naturally foraged tops of ferns that have not blossomed yet. They taste a lot like asparagus but have a flowery, fluttery texture up front with a good crunch on the end. They’re amazing! These are cooked with butter and oil and really taste fresh and light!
Finally, we got a pair of delicious desserts, the Tres Leches cake and the Tiramisu. The Tres Leches is super moist and mellow with a delightful light frosting, topped with fruit. The tiramisu is seriously rich and creamy, dark chocolate notes, boozy, drenched lady fingers with so much flavor. We’d recommend you stay for dessert.
