Tag Archive for: hotel room

BEACH HOUSE HILTON HEAD ISLAND WITH ITINERARY

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 10/8/26

Go beachfront at Beach House Hilton Head Island this fall! John and I recently took a weekender down to Hilton Head Island for a little relaxation and enjoyed the newly renovated and oceanfront Beach House right on the Atlantic Ocean! It is only 4.5 hours away from Atlanta, so it is perfect for a quick beach getaway or long weekend on top of a full vacation! The pool is gorgeous, the beachfront property perfectly manicured, and it has a ton of outdoor and dining amenities. Needless to say, the resort is all about being outdoors!

Speaking of the outdoor space, they boast a newly renovated and luxurious pool deck with large pool, private poolside cabanas, and rows of loungers surrounding this pool! And the best part is it is right in the beach, Coligny Beach. They have umbrella and chair rentals to enjoy a day in the sand and only steps from your room! Need a bike? They have rentals to get you around the island, as well.

Amenities also include three on-site dining options from the southern yet coastal, The Porch, located on the pool deck. They offer poolside and cabana dining. Tiki Hut, newly expanded tiki bar with handhelds and snacks while you listen to live music all day long in their beachfront stage. It was voted No 3 Tiki Bar in the U.S. By USA Today readers. They offer beach dining. And Sweet Al’s a daytime coffee and pastry shop great for the morning pick me up.

We also enjoyed the escape to our oceanfront room. Shiplap greets you as you enter and the entire room is nautical themed! Longitude and latitude on the walls, porthole mirror in the bathroom, ropes and ties, and baskets. The bed is comfy and the bathroom spacious and relaxing. But the best is the view from your balcony!

We put together an all-inclusive one-day itinerary for you to grab for your next trip.

☕️ 1. Start the day Sweet Al’s on property and grab a delicious coffee. I got an almond milk latte, but they have a wide variety of syrups and flavors. Then, John and I grabbed some donuts, chocolate frosted his favorite.
🏝️ 2. Have a beach morning. Go to the rental house and grab a pair of chairs and umbrellas and get into relaxation mode. There, take in the ocean breeze and the sound of the waves.
🛖 3. Tiki Hut is the perfect lunch spot. It has the beach views, and you can grab a drink, grub, and watch live music ALL DAY from the beachside stage. We got some chicken wings to share, and they were juicy and crunchy with sweet and savory teriyaki. They also have a bunch of rum concoctions for all those tiki drink lovers like me! They also are a great spot to catch the big game.
💦 4. Opt for a private cabana for a poolside afternoon. Located on the pool deck, these private cabanas come with large fan, private loungers, a couch, table, complimentary water and snacks for an all day experience. Take a dip whenever you like and work up an appetite to order from your private food and beverage person! I tried the Mahi Mahi with fruit! They also have a ton of breezy beach drink options.
🐠 5. Dinner is served at a the Porch Southern Kitchen. Just off the pool deck with inside outside bar and large patio! I got the Black and White Sesame encrusted seared tuna, a savory, crunchy bite on top of a fantastic cabbage/bok choy tossed in spicy wasabi vinaigrette and a warm citrusy ponzu for dipping. John got the roasted half chicken, a succulent chicken skin on with savory braised collards and creamy polenta mash. I paired my dinner with some Prosecco.
🎶 6. Catch live music back at the tiki hut until 10pm! It’s THE night spot on the property!

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.

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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.

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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.


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!

SOUTHLAND CASINO HOTEL IN WEST MEMPHIS, AR

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 1/9/26

We’re ALL IN on Southland Casino Hotel. It is the real DEAL and located just outside Memphis in West Memphis, Arkansas. There is a beautiful hotel where the lobby is grand and where a large casino with every game imaginable awaits. Plus, the hotel and casino has live entertainment, tons of dining options, and special VIP perks. Are you “all in?”

The lobby and casino: You’re greeted with a beautiful lobby adorned with marble, rich carpeting, and stunning chandeliers. Just steps into the vibrant, lively casino floor with something for everyone. Whether you are an avid craps player or simply enjoy the slot machines, you will be entertained!

When you step into the hotel, you’re greeted with a beautiful lobby adorned with marble, rich carpeting, and stunning chandeliers. The marble winds a path to the front desk and eventually into the large, vibrant, lively casino floor. There is something for everyone there with games from tables to video. Whether you are an avid craps player or simply enjoy the slot machine, you’ll be entertained. I also couldn’t get over the beauty of the casino itself, red carpet, stunning lighting above and the restaurants, bars, and displays really draw you in.

For high rollers, called Black Diamond, they have our favorite place in all the casino, the Destination Lounge! This lounge has top-notch service, where you’re waited on like a VIP with the best friendly staff, wine, beer, well, and cocktail open bar. Beyond the bar are the hot and cold snacks like the creamy chicken salad toast, steak egg rolls, and even desserts. Make sure to pick up your Lucky North card to get points and eventually become Black Diamond to enjoy.

Up in the rooms, you enter to a spacious room and a large clean bathroom in the hall with a luxurious rain shower head. In the main bedroom you’re reminded of the excitement with glitter white headboards and red carpet. Yet it is a retreat from the entertainment below with a large comfy bed. Near the window is a small seating area to enjoy the view, the higher the room the better!

They boast a wide variety of dining options like fancy Ignite Steakhouse, a casual Sports Bar, an all-out buffet called The Kitchens, Charred Oak Bourbon Bar cocktail bar, and even a grab and go coffee shop with great little bites in The Grind. Of all of them, the Ignite Steakhouse is THE place to dine on the property at Southland Casino Hotel. It is more upscale with a window to watch the kitchen and a beautiful bar outside!

What we recommend at Ignite Steakhouse is the Game and Smoke tower. A tower for meats like my favorites the rich brisket ends, flavorful elk sausage, and seasoned turkey, paired in a tower with several cheeses, meaty duck pate, tender venison. On top of that is the sweet spicy pepper jelly and cornbread wedges to round out the flavors! It is the most amazing charcuterie board ever!

Of the appetizers, we loved the Wagyu Deviled eggs. You know I can’t resist deviled eggs and these didn’t disappoint. These were whole eggs with creamy filling and topped with small cuts of Wagyu beef and herbs. As well as the, Fried green tomatoes that are crunchy cornmeal outside and tangy soft inside. They’re topped with pulled chicken and a delicious spicy and creamy aioli.

Charred Oak Bourbon Bar is the best cocktail bar in Southland Casino Hotel. They have a boozy and smoky old fashioned that is sure to be famous! Another spot we loved is the The Grind. It is a grab and go spot for light bites, lunch, or dinner. I stumbled on the collard green potato bites that are a standout and a big portion! Crunchy potato outside, earthy collards and smooth mozzarella inside and a fantastic remoulade for dipping. Next to the Grind is the breakfast spot that we really enjoyed the breakfast hash and the pancakes!

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. 



THE BELLYARD HOTEL

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 MACON

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 6/7/24

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!