You’ll find inner peace at this newly renovated Buckhead hotel, The Grand Hyatt Atlanta Buckhead! Recently, John and I stayed the weekend at the Grand Hyatt Atlanta in Buckhead and were stunned by its beautiful renovation! Everything about it was calming and opulent from the beautiful rooms to the sweeping bar, to the lush Zen Garden and pool.
The lobby greets you with a grand chandelier and posh art deco seating! The lobby has marble floors, flashes of colorful artwork, and artwork creating movement. Inside The Fabled bar in front of you, the bar soars to the ceiling and the marble top seems to go on forever. On the opposite side of the bar are storytelling artwork and columns reminiscent of Italy or Greece with seating that overlooks the Zen Garden and waterfall!
Speaking of the Zen Garden, take a stroll! Go up to floor three and out the double doors to take a walk through their Zen Garden. Lush plants, Japanese accents, sitting areas and it all overlooks a waterfall that you can see from the lobby and bar. The Zen Garden leads to the pool where you can relax by it and even order a bevy. To access the waterfall, head to down to the lower level during Cassis breakfast hours. You can even sit outside by it with your breakfast.
After that, retreat to your room. John and I got treated to a suite where you walk into a living room all dressed up with a cozy, comfy couch and chairs, and a small wet bar. Loved the art deco like 20s lighting, as well. In the bedroom, the large king comfy bed is accented by a gray scale garden and tree scene which was calming and a small siting area. The bathroom is a stunner with marble floor, vanity and shower! It was like a spa!
The Fabled Bar
John and I enjoyed a meal here while we visited! Here we found out more about myths (cocktails named after myths) on their amazing drink menu and epic journeys like their locally sourced scratch food. All enjoyed in the relaxed, beautiful ambiance of the bar.
To start we opted for the creamy, slightly smoky deviled eggs that also had a good tang and a pop of salty fish roe on top. To go with that came the Tuna Tataki. It is crunchy, sesame encrusted seared tuna with a bright seaweed salad and a delicious soy glaze! For dinner, I had to try the Zen Garden bowl because it sounded so good. I added well-seasoned and cooked salmon to the top of this favorite dish. The bowl is bright lemon vinaigrette, sweet potatoes, cool cauliflower rice, spicy arugula, and crunchy pepitas. To wash it all down, got the Oracle’s martini. This is a vodka martini with floral elderflower, sweet and tart pear, and bright lemon.
Told you! You can find inner peace here at every turn.
Relax amongst the vines at the beautiful Bent Tree Lodge. John and I took a weekend getaway recently to Bent Tree Lodge & Vineyard only about 90 minutes from downtown Atlanta and just down the road from downtown Jasper! Retreat to a cozy bed & breakfast nestled in the North Georgia Mountains that offers a hot breakfast and a day exploring wine.
The main house/lodge boasts a beautiful living space with towering fireplace, lounge area, and tables for the morning’s complimentary hot breakfast. The morning we were there they had a blueberry French toast bake with compote blueberries, a sweet cream cheese icing, and paired with fruit and sausage. I got to see one of the rooms, The Garden room, that has a swing bed outside to take in the winery views!
Behind the lodge is the Cairn View Winery, where we stayed above the tasting room in the Gibbs Suite. A large room where you open to an opulent bathroom with two vanities, a large walk-in shower, and the best dual soaker tub for relaxing. But, the centerpiece of the room is the large comfy king bed, floral accent pillow, gorgeous green accent wall and decor! It screams garden. Plus, you can walk out the door and right into the founders and members den to watch the winery action below. The den is decked out in cow patterns, dark leather, and is plush and inviting. Don’t forget the snacks! All snacks, cookies, water and soda in the room are complimentary to overnight guests.
Cairn View Winery
This north Georgia winery experience is all about wine for happy trails! THE premier boutique winery, you’ll enjoyed a unique tasting experience with a relaxed, spacious tasting room filled with wines made by cairn in Washington state, but this year, they will have their first crop grown right there in their vineyard! Outside, they have a beautiful wrap around porch with seating, outdoor fire pits and live music on select days!
You can opt for a wine tasting to find your favorite like the ones that John and I did. Our first tasting was The Bucking Broncos includes crisp Sauvignon Blanc paired with aged cheddar, floral Mountain Laurel Rose (second favorite), tasty Weeping Willow White, and my favorite the Springer Mountain blend with pepper jack cheese. Our second tasting was CVW Reserve Tasting includes Burnt Mountain Red reserve, 2020 Cabernet Sauvignon, 2022 Malbec, and Panther Creek Red blend. All paired with aged cheese and chocolate. We had our wine tasting on our exclusive VIP tour, exploring the vineyard, the barrel room, and behind the scenes with a one-on-one tasting with the tasting room manager in their VIP room.
Beyond the tours and tasting, they also have wine by the glass and an array of snacks, like their amazing charcuterie board! It includes Pepper jelly, an array of cheese, olives, a mix of meats, crackers, and grapes. As for activities, they have live music, sip and paints, wine and cheese, and food truck Fridays to name a few of them.
It is the perfect little getaway near the mountains!
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.
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.
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!
Nestled in Rabun county and surrounded by the majestic North Georgia mountains, Bridge Creek Inn is a brand new mainstay on Clayton’s Main Street! John and I took a weekend getaway for a leisurely weekend to Bridge Creek Inn. There we enjoyed the mountain views while exploring the wildlife, activities, and downtown shopping. Bridge Creek Inn is touted as Clayton’s Living Room, a community gathering spot. You can catch a game or enjoy a cocktail from the Vandiver, their on-site upscale tavern. And being in the middle of downtown, it’s THE place to stay and explore everything that downtown Clayton, GA has to offer.
The moment you walk into the lobby “living room,” the hotel greets you with natural wood beauty, soft wood furniture, darker wood ceiling, and plush and cozy seating areas that dot the lobby. It’s calming from the second you enter. Gather by the fire, grab a quick coffee or snack at their cafe, and people watch from their cozy lounge area. It’s the place to relax and unwind.
Rooms
Upstairs, our room was the spacious King Suite with 180 views of the mountains and downtown! Simple and clean, yet modern and new, it was a beautiful room. The bathroom was light and bright, large shower, and pristine vanity. Heading around the corner is a cozy seating area with leather chairs made for a fun reading nook. The bed area drew your eye with a dark blue accent wall, mountain decor, and a comfy, large, king bed. Plus, we could look at the Mountain View all day.
The Vandiver
As we mentioned, they have an upscale tavern restaurant on site, The Vandiver, a main street tavern. Only open for 5 days when we visited, the space has some serious casual steakhouse vibes. Think exposed wood beams and circular booths. We’re impressed with the delectable shared plates, sensational dishes, and elevated cocktails! Like the Venison Wellington that’s super tender and juicy deer, cooked perfectly without a hint of game. The meat is surrounded by a perfect pastry that’s crunchy on the outside, yet flaky and gloating in a moat of rich and deep jus around it.
They have a wide variety of delicious shared plates like the BBQ carrots and the Jalapeno Hush Puppies. Starting with the BBQ carrots that are crunchy and sweet, tender carrots with a spicy jalapeño miso and creamy, tart yogurt. On the other hand, the Jalapeño hush puppies are crunchy and fluffy with a good spice on the end. It is paired with a divine honey sweet butter. On to the Roasted Tomato Salad with fresh and light, roasted tomatoes, tangy crispy shallot, earthy basil, and topped with cheese!
For dinner, we also got the stunning Pork chop. It is a tender and juicy, charred chop topped with a herbaceous and earthy chimichurri, creamy sweet potato puree, dotted with pinkie eyed peas and grilled peaches. On the side, we opted for the Bone Marrow Bread pudding, a savory bread pudding. It is super meaty and rich! Finally, paired it with the Vandiver Verde, a tangy and sweet cocktail with a good spicy back.
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.
In our element at the Element Atlanta Midtown! Located in the corner of Peachtree and Ponce, the Element Atlanta Midtown is the official hotel of The Fox Theatre Atlanta! They incorporate nature-inspired ambiance for the healthy, active, and eco-conscious traveler that wants more out of their stay! Modern lobby, clean and bright guest rooms, and even active amenities all go hand in hand for a better way to stay.
The lobby: Greeted by natural elements and greenery, calm takes over your senses. The expensive lobby flows into a living room like area and congregate seating for groups to gather or to make new friends. All the decor is relaxing and posh. Plus, one of our favorite things about the Element Atlanta Midtown is the made-to-order complimentary breakfast each morning! Choose from eggs and pancakes from the grill, grab a bagel or muffin for a quick bite, and even sip on brewed coffee overlooking Peachtree.
The room: The rooms at the Element are spacious, clean, and bright. You’re greeted up front in the hall to a clean, spa-like bathroom with large shower. Next to the bathroom is the large and comfy King bed, wood and minimalistic closet and coffee area, a desk, and area for lounging. They also have oversized windows to bring in natural light.
The Ponce Room: Downstairs, in the Courtyard lobby, The Ponce Room is a beautiful corner bar and restaurant that overlooks the Fox Theater. It is a sensational spot to catch a bite before going to a show or for a leisurely time with friends and family. They have shareable like crunchy and sharp cheese curds, crunchy French fry and savory loaded steak dish, and my new favorite the spicy, crunchy, savory, sweet and creamy poke nachos! We paired this with either white wine and their spectacular floral and boozy Elderflower Old Fashioned.
Amenities: They have an onsite gym for those with an active lifestyle. Plus, this hotel is the definition of location, location, location with Element Atlanta Midtown steps to shopping, dining, breweries, and of course the Fox Theatre and Georgia Tech! You can enjoy a meal, a show, and retire to your Element retreat!
The Bellyard Hotel is located in the hip West Midtown Interlock and an inspired design with a touch of modern, a hint of opulence, cozy nooks, elevated rooms, it all comes together seamlessly in every space of the hotel. The moment the elevator doors open you’re greeted with opulent marble, beautiful large white couches, warm seating areas with wood accents and blue tones, the lighting is calming and yellow. A bull stands majestically overlooking the check-in area. Behind the check-in is a large window into the atrium area. Filled with a whimsical colorful mural, wicker and wood seating, greenery and some free-standing trees, it’s a great spot to relax.
The room:
The door opens and you step into a short hallway with calm light wood and a ceiling to floor windows. Around the corner you come across the beautiful bathroom with its green modern tile and clean lines of the vanity, across from it is the large shower and the toilet area in the middle that can be closed off. The first thing you notice in the large main sleeping area is the intricate wood accent wall behind the bed. It soars up to the concrete ceiling. Lofty and airy. The king bed is very comfortable, while the large window seat is the perfect place to catch the Atlanta Skyline.
Drawbar and Patio
Located in the lobby, Drawbar is the focal point of the space with a large sweeping bar, lounge areas, and white couches where you can gather with friends or make new ones. Outside in the patio, Drawbar is known for its patio views of the amazing Atlanta skyline. Plus, they have amazing cocktails and tasty bites for any occasion. Like the Seared lamb that is tender and juicy well-seasoned lamb smothered in a rich and deep, sweet, savory Demi glaze then paired with crunchy and earthy Brussels and root carrots. Paired it with their sensational smoked old fashioned. It is nutty pecan infused whiskey cocktail with earthy and sweet syrup and peach bitters. It is smoked tableside for a light smoke.
Also really enjoyed the fried green tomato appetizer that is crunchy outside and tangy inside, sharp creamy pimento cheese mixed with spicy and sweet and a pepper jelly for a hint of spice and sweet. Got the Pina Lope with the tomatoes and it is a spin on the classic Pina colada but with gin. This cocktail is tangy pineapple, floral on the back, and a hint of nuttiness from the orgeat. We also sampled the Hotlanta Margarita is a sweet peach and pineapple margarita with Tanteo jalapeño tequila for some spice and a tajin rim for extra spice. Comes with a candy floater.
Amenities: It’s a community! Beyond the hotel Drawbar, the Interlock’s plethora of options is just steps from the hotel door. Nightlife, bars, restaurants, and even shopping. So, grab your walking shoes and explore!
Hotel Forty Five is on the corner of history and music. This hip historic boutique hotel by Tribute Portfolio is in the “Macon Skyscraper,” a 1941 Banker’s Health & Life Insurance Company. John and I recently visited on a weekend getaway to Macon that’s only about an hour and some change from Atlanta! The hotel is steps from restaurants and bars, the Macon Auditorium, the Tubman Museum, and natural attractions for hiking or riding! It is in the center of it all!
What is in a name? The Hotel Forty Five’s name is rich in Macon history! It gets its name from the 45 degree angle of the street formed by Cherry, First, and Cotton Street and was designed to transport cotton barges to and from the Ocmulgee River. Also, Macon is known for its rich musical past and the numerous 45 records produced there, so the name is a nod to this history. As we said, corner of history and music! Did you know Macon is the home of The Allman Brothers Band? If you walk around the corner from the hotel, you’ll find Grant’s Lounge, a staple jam bar where bands would jam night after night to get a record deal. And you can see it today and hear live music!!
Inside the hotel, the lobby winds up through the elevators with retro flooring and bank vibes, while the old directory is still visible from the elevator lobby! Downstairs is the beautiful restaurant Loom with a full bar and dining room, and they also have Reckon coffee bar with pastries and drinks for early risers. Upstairs on the 6th floor is Hightales Rooftop bars with sweeping historical and downtown views, live music, and full beautiful bar! A full review of the amenities is below!
Inside the room, touches of industrial lighting fixtures, a Macon street drawing morphed into a mural with a woman’s face, hints of leather, marble, and retro like the cutest 50s mini fridge and pink funky dresser desk, it is an eclectic mix of angles, textures, and vibes. They even have a schematic of the original building in the restroom. Beyond that, the large king bed was comfy, the beautifully light and bright bathroom stuns, and the historical views can’t be beaten!
As for the restaurant, Loom weaves a tapestry of southern dishes with elevated flavor and fresh ingredients into what the chef calls “Southern Revival!” Located in the Hotel Forty Five downstairs, Loom is bright, light, and fresh to match the freshness of their food, and has a large loom mural on the wall that draws the eye. As for our favorite dish, that is the King Salmon. The dish is a must in Macon! A well-seasoned, cooked perfectly salmon filet with an amazing tangy and sweet bourbon glaze that will make you want to lock the plate. It sits on top of creamy jasmine rice that mixes with the bourbon glaze harmoniously! Then paired with crunchy seasoned carrots!
For our appetizers we got Crispy Cauliflower, Bread Service, Burrata, and Fried Green Tomatoes. First, the Crispy Cauliflower is tender, yet crispy, earthy red pepper emulsion and earthy tart capers all drizzled in arugula oil. The next appetizer is Burrata. It is cool and creamy cheese paired with sweet apple gastric and nutty crushed pistachio. A flavor explosion of sweet, nutty, creamy! On the side we got the bread service, which is amazing corn bread. It is warm and buttery, sweet and savory. Finally, the fried green tomatoes are super crunchy outside and tangy, tender tomatoes, creamy and sharp pimento cheese then finished off with tangy tomato chutney to round out all the flavors.
We also got another entree with the King Salmon, the Smoked Pork Chop. It is tender, charred and well-seasoned topped with a sweet red relish on a bed of funky blue cheese grits and spicy collards. We got all of this with a bottle of champagne for national wine day.
After our dinner we went upstairs to the Hotel Forty Five, Hightales Rooftop Bar. They have hand crafted cocktails like the Got the Feelin’ James Brown, a super spicy yet fruity tequila concoction with spicy agave and raspberry! But the best part? THE best views of the historical and downtown portions of the city!
