Tag Archive for: hotel lobby

SEEING SARASOTA WITH THE SARASOTA MODERN

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 8/9/26

Discovering a modern oasis in the heart of Sarasota, FL’s art distinct: The Sarasota Modern! Over a long weekend, John and I made our way to South West Florida to experience The Sarasota Modern in downtown’s Rosemary Art & Design District. Let me tell you, The Modern as it is known celebrates a blend of bold architecture, modern design, playful art, yet casual comfort. It is a whole vibe. Here’s our thoughts on the hotel.

The lobby is clean and sleek with pops of contemporary design. The main lounging area has a bold orange couch with colorful pillows, blue chairs, and retro coffee table in a modern design. In the elevator area are more fun retro spots with an eclectic seating area and fireplace. When exiting look up, an alligator is perched above next to a palm tree looking down on the lobby.

The rooms have light and airy vibes! Spacious and clean design with the light wood floors, white and light comfy king bed, retro touches throughout. Large couch seating area with color puff for lounging. The bathroom is sleek white with a rain shower head shower and ample vanity space. The stunner is the balcony overlooking the pool area!

The amentities at the Sarasota Modern float my boat!

Starting with the gorgeous pool sanctuary lined with retro and contemporary green and white loungers and umbrellas. The deck is filled with palm trees galore. The main pool is a great place to cool off. They also have a hot tub, several cabanas that are open for anyone to use. Then, my favorite feature of the pool deck is the cold plunge. It is kept at about 50 degrees and is perfect for the heat! At the pool bar we got the Doctor’s Orders, a creamy and boozy painkiller with pineapple and coconut. For food I opted for the Ahi Tuna Nachos and the Loco Moco.

The nachos are crunchy wonton chips loaded with tender and fresh ahi tuna, creamy avocado, creamy spicy aioli, sesame, crunchy seaweed, picked onions and a delicious savory and sweet sauce. The Loco moco is rich hearty wagyu beef patty on top of white rice, a rich and savory sauce then topped with caramelized onions and mushrooms, a runny egg and scallions. I also enjoyed a poolside old fashioned, a sweet and boozy old fashioned.

Plus, on-site dining options that can’t be missed from Wink, Wink to a one-of-a-kind experience, 7 Paintings. As far as Wink Wink Lounge, is where dishes mix comfort food with a tropical twist paired with creative cocktails and a tiki floral atmosphere. We got several food and drink items from the Jerk Chicken to the Deviled eggs, and cocktails. Starting with the Jerk Chicken, a is tender and juicy chicken with spiced and flavorful jerk seasoning, spicy and sweet honey habanero collards. The Mac and cheese tho! It is rich and creamy. I paired it with the Gin ne sais qui gin martini with tart grapefruit, prosecco, floral lavender and glitter.

For our appetizer we got the Deviled eggs. They are pickled eggs with creamy filling, delicious aji Amarillo, topped with cheese and sprouts. I paired the eggs with the Hey there gorgeous is floral elderflower and bubbly Prosecco with sweet candied hibiscus flower. To end the night we enjoyed the Carrot Cake. It is moist and spiced with tons of carrots with a sweet yuzu lime cream cheese frosting.

Stop the presses, now you can now EAT a famous masterpiece at 7 Paintings. It is a one-of-a-kind (only 4 locations in the USA) interactive 7-course meal that brings 7 famous artists work to life through 3D mapping that brings stunning visuals to each canvas, themed music, amazing menu, and even a wine/cocktail pairing! My favorite part was when I got to play with my food and actually paint my own Jackson Pollack!

Here are the details on the courses, pairings, and artists:
The first course is the DaVinci/Michelangelo. You crack the code with a flashlight, open the box and bring out a hand with a rich, savory, sweet, whipped ricotta tart wrapped in Phyllo. This course is paired with Italian Brut.
The second course is the Banksy Girl with Balloon to reveal a Beef carpaccio! It is really rich and savory the earthy olive and the crunchy crostini perfectly paired with rose wine.
The next course is Picasso, Weeping Woman. It is a tender flaky fish red snapper dish with citrusy and creamy coconut rice. It is served with smooth Albariño.
The fourth course is the Painted our own Jackson Pollack! Paint brushes and cups with different dressings in them to dip the veggies and salad ingredients that comes on the side. My favorite is the ginger dressing. It is served with chenin Blanc.
The next course is the Andy Warhol dish. It came out under his famous tomato can with coco-cola reduction in a bottle!! Rich and tender meat, sweet and savory cocoa glaze and creamy potatoes topped with crispy tangy onions the make this dish! Wine: Cab & Merlot
The first dessert is the Surrealism with Dali. It is an ice cream and crema with a bruleed top. It is served with accoutrement like chocolate, olive oil spray and berries in a smoky bowl. Paired with espresso martini, boozy and strong coffee cocktail.
The final course is another dessert. We got to paint a starry night by Van Gogh IN CHOCOLATE on top of a delicious coconut cake overlay.

Screenshot
Screenshot
Screenshot

Other amenties include complimentary bikes, water, coffee, tea, breakfast muffins, towels, and beach gear. They also have the Retro VW Bus, The Reggie, to take you within a 3 mile radius. Another great amenity is the location! It is in walking distance to local bars and restaurants, Main Street, the Marina, and of course to all things art! Then, only 3.6 miles from the beautiful Lido Key beach with AMPLE beach parking if you go early.

Screenshot

SWITZERLAND INN ON THE BLUE RIDGE HIGHWAY

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 7/3/26

Last weekend, John and I took a road trip up to the Blue Ridge Parkway on North Carolina. About 4 hours from ATL, perched on a slope on this parkway, Switzerland Inn is a testament to mountain retreats! Connect with nature starting with the breathtaking panoramic mountain view that greets you. I could literally sit on the property and just soak it in; it is the best amenity the resort offers! You really have to see this one to believe it!

Views:

The lobby is one part rustic mountain cabin, one part chalet and Bavarian architecture, so the entire property and the lobby give off Alpine vibes. Warm wood from floor to ceiling, stone accents, two fireplaces, cozy lounging areas with quilts, and large windows all to enjoy the Mountain View.

There are many room types from staying in the lodge to private cabins. We stayed on Heidi 4, just next to the lodge, a second-floor oasis all with those stunning property and mountains in the background. It is a two-room suite where a living area with fireplace greets. Hardwood floors flow throughout the room. Behind that is the cozy king bedroom and the spa-like bathroom with marble floor and rain shower head. It feels newly renovated and fresh!

Amenities abound at Switzerland in from fun for the whole family with lawn games from horseshoes to ping pong. Near the edge of the slope is a relaxing pool with a beautiful view of the mountains. Also on the edge of the slope is several Adirondack chairs to soak in those views by day and firepits by night. For further relaxation they offer a spa with an array of treatments. On-site shopping is just steps away with a gift shop in the lobby, provision haus, and other shops right on the property. And for Pickleball enthusiasts, six courts await.

One of the best amenities is the on-site dining options at the Switzerland Inn. Starting with the terrace dining. For lunch the first day, we sat on the patio just off the main lobby with sweeping mountain views right in front of us. There we enjoyed the Yard bird grilled chicken sando. It is a well-seasoned, herbaceous chicken that’s juicy and tender and loaded up with trimmings. It is served with sweet potato fries. John got the flatbread with pepperoni and sausage. It is a crunchy crust loaded with a boat load of cheese, hearty and spiced pepperoni, and savory sausage.

For dinner our first night we visited the Fowl Play Pub, where rustic mountain and Bavarian charm collide. The casual Alpine bar and dining area even have critters like a racoon with crackerjacks are in the ceiling. We got the smoked wings, the Chalet chop, and the Chalet cooler.

John devoured the smoky wings. They’re super meaty, crunchy outside, and tender inside with a generous amount of lemon pepper rub. I got the Chalet chop, a tender and juicy pork chop. It is grilled with a slight char and a hint of smoke topped with a light tangy BBQ sauce. Served with tangy caramelized onions, creamy herbaceous and decadent mashed potatoes, and crunchy snap peas to round out the meal. From the bar, we sipped on the Chalet cooler. Boozy cucumber vodka, earthy cucumber, and lime is refreshing and light.

For breakfast and the final night, we were treated to an elevated meal at the Chalet Restaurant. The main dining room is adorned with an antler chandelier and mountain decor all with a view from the large picture window. For breakfast I enjoyed the Deluxe Avocado toast, a crunchy wheat toast loaded with creamy avocado. On top is a savory poached egg and a sweet balsamic drizzle to bring it all together. John got a really big piece of country ham with his eggs, and it is large, salty and tender. I stole some.

As for dinner, we had the Swiss onion soup, Smoked Half Duck, and the Jefe Manhattan. The Manhattan is boozy Woodford rye with bitter vermouth and a hint of sweet. As for the Swiss onion soup, it is divine. Rich and deep herbaceous broth topped with floating garlicky baguettes and mild Swiss cheese. And the duck was the best dish of the weekend. Crunchy outside, smoky, tender inside doused in a delicious tangy and sweet, savory hoisin sauce. It is served with root vegetables and snap peas.

Another spot of note is the Provision Haus. They offer coffee, tea, and treats all right across from the lobby.


LE MERIDIEN ATLANTA PERIMETER

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 5/4/26

Please connect me with a modern hotel close to major Atlanta attractions but offers a quiet escape. Recently John and I enjoyed a long weekend staycation up at the Le Meridien Atlanta Perimeter in Dunwoody! It is a sleek modern hotel that greets you with its modern vibes in the lobby and throughout but is also just minutes from access to all Atlanta has to offer! Plus, they have a wonderful on-site restaurant and bar to enjoy during your stay.

The automatic doors open to the lobby with modern touches, a gathering of lounge areas and tables dotted throughout. There is an inside fireplace for the cold months with a cozy book nook for reading and business center. There is also an outdoor fireplace with lounging patio and a conference table with eclectic lighting as the centerpiece!

Up in the rooms, you’re treated to modern yet comfortable vibes. We got a suite with a full table, cozy den area with TV and work desk. The bedroom had a beautiful artistic grey blue mural above the comfy king bed. The shower was spacious and bright, and we loved the quote on the full-length mirror! We also got a beautiful view out our window of the office building and space next door.

And it’s all about location at the Le Meridien Atlanta Perimeter! At this location, there’s the mall and surrounding attractions, bars, and restaurants but this can be your retreat from the downtown fray! Marta is just minutes from the hotel and gives you easy access to all metro attractions!

Amenities in the lobby also include a long Longitude 84 bar and lounge with bar bites and sensational cocktails, plus a happy hour M-F! Behind it is the beautiful Portico restaurant that is a dining destination boasting European inspired fare.

verything we tried @lemeridienatlanta’s @porticoatlanta and Longitude 84! 👀 Recently John and I enjoyed a weekend Staycation at Le Meridien Atlanta Perimeter and had some fabulous food and drinks so we thought we would share all of them with you! You can’t go wrong! #sponsored

Here is what we tried for the Happy Hour at Longitude 84 bar. It is Monday to Friday from 5 to 6 pm. They had a $10 sweet and boozy Old Fashioned on Friday. We also went for a few of the small bites from the creamy and earthy Beets & burrata. Chris the bartender recommended putting balsamic reduction on it and it was perfection. We also got the Earthy, savory, sweet Brussels sprouts and tangy crunchy onion rings!

As for dinner at the Longitude 84 bar, we started with the Spicy margarita with spicy jalapeno infused vodka with a sweet and tangy balance on the end. For bites we started with Mediterranean octopus is perfectly cooked and tender, huge hearty cannelloni bean and a fantastic tangy vinaigrette with lettuce and radish. John got the ATL lemon pepper wings that were crunchy outside and tender inside with the perfect amount of flavor. A surprise dish of the night was the Artisan flatbread. It was divine with tender steak, cheese, earthy mushroom and pesto.

For our main dish we split the Short rib that is super tender and fall off the bone, meaty, sweet and savory. It comes on top of creamy parsnip puree and sweet carrots and a savory demi glaze on the top. It was my favorite dish, and I paired it with the Le Meridien. A floral empress rose gin cocktail with tart prosecco, and lemon for balance. And we got treated for dessert with a cheesecake topped with chocolate. With that I enjoyed Chris’s special cherry chocolate Manhattan, and it tasted exactly as it sounds, chocolaty, sweet, tart, and boozy.

The second night we had dinner at the Portico Restaurant behind the bar and got an array of great dishes. The 1885 angus filet is super rich, served rare with a sear topped with peppercorn au pauvre that is rich with a hit of spice and a creamy, cheesy au gratin potato! My favorite dish of this dinner is the Day boat halibut is flaky hearty well-seasoned fish. It is topped with a creamy and earthy ravioli, lemon pepper seasoning and a fun bright succotash with peas, corn, mushroom, and tomato. And then there was an elevated take on a classic, chicken and dumplings! These are fun cheesy gnocchi like dumplings with rich green bean and corn succotash and the best marinated chicken thigh. I paired the meal with a delicious creamy and rich decaf espresso martini!

HOTEL GRANADA: A SLICE OF SPAIN IN MIDTOWN ATLANTA

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 2/24/26

John and I spent the weekend recently at Hotel Granada in midtown, this gem is like stepping into Spain with stunning Spanish, Europe, Greek architecture that greets you when you pull up. The courtyard is grand, the Spanish tile inviting, the homey vibes permeate and perfect for a weekend getaway, staycation, and to explore the city. Check in to Spain without ever leaving Atlanta!

Before you even enter, this hotel feels like Europe, a mixture of old and new architecture, arches, and stucco. A spiral staircase and awning wind up to the landing where Spanish and European style tile spell out the word Granada. The centerpiece of the Hotel is the courtyard just through an archway! A centerpiece fountain is surrounded by groups of seats where it would be perfect to hang out in during spring with a cocktail from Pom Court.

Inside, the heart of the Hotel Granada is Pom Court. You follow the earthy orange and green Spanish tile to the large bar or seating areas of the restaurant to the coffee shop and front desk. The restaurant, Pom Court’s Spanish inspired southern food awaits from delightful brunch to Spanish southern dinner. We had a full dinner at Pom Court on our second night here is what we got.

I started out with the Alba martini, a floral gin and cool vodka martini with two vermouths’: one is bitter the other sweet, so it has a dynamic flavor! For starters, John and I shared the Deviled Eggs, a creamy and tangy set of eggs topped with crunchy chicken chicharrónes and tangy picked okra! We also got the Beef empanadas, rich and flavorful beef in a crunchy shell with a delish earthy aioli for dipping. For our main, we shared the short rib, which is a super tender and meaty beef on top of smoky corn, black beans, onion succotash and fried onion.

On the way to the room, I notice something special. It’s the custom Atlanta wallpaper with visuals of The Fox Theatre sign, the Olympic Torch, and even Vidalia Onions! Speaking of the rooms, they are spacious with retro design, custom carpet, and gorgeous 20s square tile. The furniture is vintage lounging couch, and teak inspired armoire and headboard on the large king comfy bed. And the bathroom is immaculate with 20s tile, marble, gold tailored accents and frosted custom designed windows.

Tucked in the basement, May Peel is a moody, chic bond-inspired speakeasy with blue velvet and drop 20s lighting. Behind the circular bar, Nico whips up sensational cocktails you can’t find anywhere else. We got a several cocktails at the bar from the Whisperer to Valencia, Eclipse de Sol, and a Manhattan. Of the group, I really enjoyed the Whisperer, a boozy rum and sweet clarified pineapple drink, earthy pandan, creamy coconut foam on top. It is their take on a pina colada. I also liked, Nico’s Eclipse de Sol, a smoky mezcal cocktail infused with spicy habanero vermouth, citrusy amaro, sweet house made chocolate mole bitters. The third cocktail I got is the Valencia is a saffron fat-washed earthy gin cocktail that is spiced just right!

INTERCONTINENTAL BUCKHEAD COUPLE’S STAYCATION 2026

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 2/9/26

The Intercontinental Buckhead is where I would recommend out of town guests stay in Buckhead! John and I had the most amazing couple’s staycation at the Intercontinental Buckhead recently and we know why it was awarded Atlanta’s top hotel according to Travel and Leisure readers. Needless to say, it is our love language with stunning lobby, white glove service, gorgeous rooms, and the amenities the day is long. From The Americano Atlanta Italian restaurant and bar, fitness center, pool, and world class spa with all the perfect touches await for you.

At the Intercontinental Buckhead, you’re greeted with a smile and white glove service the moment you step out into the valet and onto the front desk. Gorgeous marble floors sweep you into the cozy den-like area with fireplace and a metal dog. You can just sit and enjoy the warmth from the fireplace. Just beyond is the check-in, is the main lobby, a grandiose vaulted atrium with waterfall chandelier, hints of tropical and flowering plants, and one of the lushest murals spreading from the canvas into the floor below. It is stunning.

Up in the rooms, the floor is a stunning floral pattern with accents of black and gray, a long grew blue velvet sofa for cozy nights watching some TV and a plush king bed for relaxing. The moody bathroom calms with black and gold accents with a soaker tub and shower. Plus, our view of downtown from this 18th floor oasis was everything.

In the lobby, The Americano Atlanta is the gorgeous onsite Italian restaurant by Scott Conant! The bar is lavish like a movie set and serves classic cocktails like their olitini, beer, wine and more. The restaurant itself is a work of art from stunning artwork to beautiful lighting. We topped off our couples’ package evening with the best meal here. We got a bottle of champagne to share that was “Sabred” to take the top off! Then, indulged in a delight dinner filled with tangy, spicy pillowy gnocchi al pomodoro topped with creamy burrata, cool and tangy tuna crudo appetizer, a shareable tender and juicy imperico pork chop atop charred brussels and a fantastic balsamic reduction. Ended the dinner with the best apple crostata. Crunchy and sweet, savory and paired it with their boozy yet sweet Nero Manhattan!

The spa at the Intercontinental Buckhead is an oasis. We enjoyed an afternoon unwinding in the spa with a calming side-by-side couples 60-minute Swedish massage. They have a beautiful quiet room where you can sip on champagne or fruit filled water and enjoy some cookies before and after your appointment. This world class spa has impeccable service and unparalleled treatments. On top of the spa, they offer an outdoor pool, room service, stay and play packages, and large fitness room!

ETTE HOTEL & THE SALT AND CELLAR – ORLANDO, FL

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 9/11/25

Opulent is the perfect world to describe this stunning Orlando hotel, Ette Hotel! John and I decided to stay a night in Orlando on the way to our summer beach vacation and we were treated to one of the nicest hotels. From the moment you arrive, you know you’re in for luxury. The right mix of minimalism and calm, with hints of elegance, class, and splendor. And it all starts with gorgeous Ette plant wall outside!

In the lobby, you are greeted with a lush seating area between the automatic doors, and in front of you is a table decked out in skincare, large flowers, with a large steel light. The check-in area is 20s deco lines, minimalistic with the word ette small and unobtrusive. Flanking each side of the check in are cozy, clean sitting areas with pops of purple color couches, piano, and skincare bookcase! I am in love with the mural outside the spa with the girl decked out in royal clothing taking a modern selfie!

Up in the room, I could not get over how calming the spacious room we stayed in! They provide ultimate comfort and the finest touches. It was calming off white with classy furniture, and sleek lines. I really loved the wardrobe; glass and metal and open with a laundry bag hanging if you need. In the bedroom, the large bed is sprawling and comfortable, the sound of water is played as you enter. The bed design and headboard are modern yet simple with gorgeous metal, clean lighting. The bathroom is also a stunner! There is a large vanity, and round mirror reflects off the glass shower. The best part of the shower is the rainfall shower head with its gentle, soothing in-room spa!

Next let’s talk about the on-site restaurant, Salt & The Cellar. It is gorgeous spot in the lobby, a collaboration with Michelin star chef Akira Back. ambiance is so much fun with monkeys hanging from the ceiling, beautiful sweeping bar, and amazing art deco dining room with lush seating. As for the food and drinks, we can’t get over the epic drink presentations from my smoky old fashioned to amazing Asian-Mediterranean dishes. Let’s take a stroll around the menu items we loved!

We started out with two appetizers, the Chef’s Roll and the Assorted Sashimi. The chef’s roll is a delicious roll with a tender fish, creamy avocado and cream cheese, crunchy, salty tempura fried, and so many other flavors like sweet, spicy, and rich. Chef’s kiss. My favorite of the appetizers was the assorted sashimi. What I really loved was the fresh fish mixed with garlic, salty caviar, tangy ponzu, and to be honest, I could have drank the sauce. It was topped with 24k gold flakes!

After that, we went for the Toro tartare experience! It is a tableside experience with a tasty toro tuna in an ice box, then covered in tangy chives, salt, salty caviar, tangy onions, crunchy garlic and a fantastic ponzu poured over it and then tossed right in front of you. You can also add more of what you want from the mixes to truly mix and match. I paired this with the visually stunning experience, the smoked old fashioned, a boozy and smoky yet sweet cocktail!

For dinner I opted for the well-presented 5oz filet steak. It is brought out sizzling with a top, presented to you and then a ponzu is drizzled on the top that creates a smoke effect that is a must see. The steak itself is super tender and flavorful with foraged mushroom underneath with a ton of earthy flavors. On top, earthy greens with butter cap off the meal with creamy and rich balancing flavor. I can’t get over the sauce mixed with the steak and accoutrement. Wow!

Beyond the restaurant, there are a ton of amenities at The Ette Hotel. They have a spa relaxation room that is open to the hotel to relax. Outside, there is a beautiful pool with luxurious lounging area, courtyard with gorgeous waterfall feature, dotted with tables, and painted duck art sculpture. You can also have breakfast and dinner out there from the restaurant. The breakfast is a buffet with tons of options like waffles, fruit, eggs, pastries, but the star of the breakfast show is the delicious tomato and cheese quiche/frittata. It is worth every penny. If you go out to the right of the property, we found the Ette Hotel has a walking path with water feature and a place to take in the small pond with seating dotted near the front.

And we have a treat for you! They offer and Florida and Georgia residence package:
15% off room rates
$50 daily breakfast credit
https://tinyurl.com/Ette-Georgia-Resident-Discount

Photo Gallery

HYATT PLACE DOWNTOWN CENTENNIAL PARK

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 9/5/25

We found a retreat amongst the downtown Atlanta attractions at Hyatt Place Downtown Centennial Park! John and I spent a weekend taking in the sites around Centennial Olympic Park and Hyatt Place Atlanta/Centennial Park is just minutes from them. But, inside you’ll find calm! You’re greeted with some of the friendliest staff we’ve ever had in Atlanta and made us feel at home.

The lobby has tons of lounge seating areas to relax, alcoves with TVs, a space for work, a grass wall with neon sign for selfies, and more! Around the corner is The Place bar and restaurant where they have $5 happy hour (select beer, wine, well drinks) and you can grab a hearty breakfast in the morning. They have everything from eggs to waffles! Next to The Place is their 24-hour market stocked with snacks and beverages for any hour! Speaking of amenities, they also have a tranquil pool for relaxing and a fitness room.

Up in the rooms, you walk into a spacious seating area with full comfy couch. The bathroom is on the way in as well and has a large walk-in shower. The large king bed is one of the most comfy and I need to know where to buy some of their pillows! The best part was our view of the roof of the Georgia aquarium and the Atlanta downtown skyline! Wow!

But the best amenity of the Hyatt Place Downtown Centennial Park is the location! It is literally across the street from Georgia Aquarium where you can see whale sharks and a myriad of other sea creatures. It is also just a few steps from World of Coca-Cola, College Football Hall of Fame, Centennial Olympic Park, GWCC, restaurants and bars, and even walkable to Mercedes-Benz Stadium where you can catch a game or concert.

ELEMENT BY WESTIN CARTERSVILLE

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 4/12/25

It’s all about comfort at the Element by Westin new Cartersville, Ga location! John and I recently headed just 30 minutes north of Atlanta to check out the new Element hotel located in Emerson, Ga next to the Lake Point Sports Complex and only minutes from Downtown Cartersville.

When you walk into the bright lobby, you’re reminded of home, large plush couches and chairs with three distinct spaces to spread out. Think comfort from calming colors, warm and cozy fabrics to name a few. They also have a snack wall and provisions, some bikes if you would like to use them, an outdoor pool for the warm months, and a fitness room.

Upstairs, relax and unwind in a crisp and clean room. You’re greeted with a white, comfortable bathroom with glowing vanity and mirror, wood elements, and a nice large shower. In the main space, the large king bed is the focal point with wood accents, warm lights and a calling teal blue accent wall. You also have a small reading area and a wood paneled wardrobe and wet bar combo!

On the 5th floor is their restaurant and bar, Skyline bistro. They have a great view of the playing fields from their patio, and the sunset on sunny days. They have a full menu, but we were blown away by their cocktail presentation. Their spicy margarita is tangy and spicy with the rim flavor of your choice but smoked and presented in a dome! Then, couldn’t get over the Umpire smoked old fashioned served in a chest, opened to reveal smoke, and handed to you.

COMPASS BY MARGARITAVILLE PIGEON FORGE

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 2/10/25

Compass by Margaritaville is a tropical oasis amongst the mountains in Pigeon Forge, TN! John and I recently drove up to Pigeon Forge to waste away in the brand-new Compass paradise that is located in the heart of downtown! Not only is it just minutes from all the attractions, but it is also a slice of heaven with beach vibes from the moment you breeze through the front door.

In the lobby:

Enter into a stunning sun-soaked resort-style hotel with wicker basket lighting, cozy cabana lounge areas, lavish herringbone tile floors, and vibrant beach colors everywhere the eye can see. On top of that, they have lush tropical plants and palms, and a big compass right in the middle to remind you how many miles it is to the beach. The lobby also holds the 5 O’clock Somewhere Bar, a beautiful bar and lounge area with delicious food and nights with live music. Then, next to it is a large space for their complimentary full breakfast. Plus, they have a nook with games from arcade games, foosball, and shuffleboard.

In the rooms:

Take out your key card and open the door to paradise. You are greeted with a dock at sunset mural that sets the relaxing tone of the spacious room. To the right is the large bathroom with marble lined vanity and a large shower with rain shower head. In the room, the beds are comfy with an orange pillow that reminds you you’re a “wanderer.” The accent wall is a beachy teal blue and there is a pop or color from the orange chairs in the lounge area. You can walk out into the balcony for Mountain Views!

And all about amenities:

It doesn’t matter what time of year you visit, as the Compass has amenities for all seasons. For all seasons, their an indoor “waterpark” pool with splash pad and pirate decor is a family haven. As long as it isn’t freezing, there is also a large bubbly hot tub. In the summer, soak in the sun on the lazy river or lay under the margarita glass water feature in the main pool. And don’t forget about everything else from their large firepit area, a green waterslide that empties into the main pool and a yard for yard games and dining area!

RIVET HOUSE HOTEL ATHENS, GA

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 8/12/24

The ravishing. The riveting. Rivet House in Athens, Ga! The most beautiful hotel in Athens is a retreat where industrial meets luxury, soaring ceilings and exposed brick stuns, while soft florals and warm hospitality abound. Located only a few miles from downtown, you’ll settle in for a night that redefines the Athens experience, yet is close enough to enjoy the city’s energy. 
 
The old school denim factory vibes hit you the moment you drive up, but are softened by a luxurious lush outdoor dining space and twinkling tea lights. As you enter the lobby, the rustic, industrial check in desk is a bold centerpiece with elegant warm lighting, exposed beams, concrete patterned flooring yet soft floral arrangements juxtapose the wood and brick. The warm staff greet with a smile and invite you to true southern hospitality. 
 
Just across from the lobby are iron gates that lead into Osteria Olio restaurant, where greenery hangs lushly from the ceiling, the marble sweeping bar stuns and the lounge area is straight out of a James Bond flick. This brand new spot boasts a swanky and new hot restaurant serving up modern Italian fare, brunch, and craft cocktails.
 
And just wait until you get to your room, as you enter there is a distinct smell of lavender that immediately calms. The open concept bedroom, bathroom combo has strong loft vibes with exposed vanity and shower to the bedroom, wood floors, soaring ceilings into exposed wood beams, exposed metal posts and brick. The large shower and vanity are gorgeous, while the large king bed is comfortable and flanked by modern touches. 
 
Only a few minutes from Normaltown restaurants and bars, as well as downtown, you can enjoy nightlife or get away from it all at the hotel. Plus, UGA football fans; they will have a shuttle on game day to downtown!

Osteria Olio Brunch

On our last day, we enjoyed an unbelievable brunch in their beautiful Osteria Olio restaurant. They have delectable traditional dishes, Italian inspired brunch options, perfect pastries, an array of delicious coffee, and stellar brunch cocktails! Like their unforgettable quiche, this flavorful little number is creamy and soft inside, topped with tangy onions and scallions and the best salty flaky pastry crust. Its eye roll good. If sweet is your jam, you have to try the amazing ricotta pancakes. Our waitress, Montana, recommended them and we are thankful! It’s divine! Crunchy caramelized outside hiding double pancakes inside that are fluffy, creamy, sweet, and warm. The maple syrup blueberries balance with some fruitiness and sweet. Their brunch cocktail menu is an Italian dream with their limoncello spritz! Cool and bubbly, sweet, and lemony. Perfect with the quiche! 
 
You really can’t go wrong with anything here, like the pastries basket to start with lemon ricotta cake is lemony and sweet yet fluffy and creamy cake. Pecan Monkey bread is croissant based pull-apart with buttery cinnamon and sugar topped with candied pecans. Peach crostata is crunchy and sweet pastry stuffed with fresh caramelized peaches. Croissant (pain au chocolate) is crunchy and flaky, chocolate stuffed inside and on top. As far as salads, the Peach & Melon salad is refreshing, cool watermelon and honey dew, crunchy peach, topped with a crunchy spicy topping and delicate salty and meaty prosciutto. Plus, we really loved the Potato Hash. It is perfectly cooked egg, savory and seasoned, the salsa verde and Calabrian chili oil give it earthy, brightness, and spice. Then, the tangy onions pair well with the potatoes! 

Osteria Olio Dinner

Osteria Olio is the best new restaurant in Athens, GA! This swanky new spot is a masterpiece of impeccable ambiance, inventive modern Italian fare, perfect pastas and pizzas, sensational steak, divine desserts, and sensational cocktails all wrapped into one of the best culinary experiences this year! Starting with the Bistecca Alla Griglia (Ribeye, it is cooked to perfection, tender, with a sensational seasoning. Don’t even need the accoutrements but the chimichurri (broccoli based) is bright and herbaceous and the tart and rich steak sauce is almost like a Demi glaze yet sweeter and tarter. And ending with the Olive Oil Cake, a light lemony sweet cake with creamy vanilla creama and peach puree. They top it off basil compressed peaches and paired with a crunchy, brittle-like cookie. 

For our appetizers, we enjoyed the sensational Polpette (meatballs). Light half pork and beef rolled up with creamy cheese and tangy, earthy tomatoes. As well as the beef Carpaccio, a meaty and tender topped with salty funky blue cheese dollops, earthy arugula, pickled tart fennel with a side of grilled sourdough made in house! And you can’t go wrong with the House made focaccia, a crispy and airy and paired with the creamy ricotta and delicious honey mixture! Washed them all down with the best of their cocktails, Special Landmark. It is a refreshing vodka cocktail with sweet italicus, tart lemon, herbaceous thyme, and bubbly prosecco.

Along with the delicious steak, I enjoyed the epic Malfalde Cacio E Pepe pasta! Al dente specialty pasta made in-house only a few places and this is one of them, plus it looks almost like octopus. The pasta is hefty and hearty then topped with very creamy sauce and topped with sharp cheese and a ton of black pepper. Then, John opted for the Cane americano pizza, a spicy meaty pepperoni and sweet honey! John really enjoyed it. We got two side dishes as well, including the flavorful, charred and tender, herby and tangy Roasted Eggplant. Plus, the waiter recommended the amazing Crispy potatoes. They’re crunchy outside and hearty and tender inside with the flavorful, creamy, bright sauce. Paired the pasta and sides with the Between the Hedges creamy and sweet, balanced, bourbon cocktail.