Next week I start working in the corporate world again.  My wife is ecstatic about my decision.  To celebrate, we’ve had a few lunchtime dates that have given us a chance to connect.

On Wednesday we checked out Seasons 52 by Perimeter Mall in Atlanta.  What a great experience.  The line was a little long to get in.  While standing in line we found out that the waiting list for a reservation is 2 weeks.  That’s how popular this place is. 

Seasons 52 describes themselves as …

… a casually sophisticated grill and wine bar that invites you to discover the sensational flavors of our seasonally changing menu. Our passion is to serve highly flavored meals that are better for you and focus on the best of each season. We use natural cooking techniques such as grilling over open fires to give our food exceptional taste with fewer calories than similar restaurant meals. To complement the flavor and aroma of your meal, we offer an adventurous international wine list of more than 140 outstanding wines, with 70 available by the glass.

Seasons 52 offers a warm and welcoming adult atmosphere you’ll want to return to often.

My wife and I did find the atmosphere to be warm and welcoming.  There was wood all around us.  The booth was deep and the cushions comfortable. 

Our server told us that their flatbread appetizer was a specialty so we tried it.  Man was that a good decision.  They brought out a flat piece of bread on a plank about 2 feet long.  The bread was smothered in baked cheese, onions, and garlic.  It was a feast for the tastebuds.  We followed this with entrees that were very flavorful and fresh tasting.  Dessert was the finishing touch.  Each dessert is presented in a shot glass.  My wife tried 2 desserts and loved them both.

They tell us that they have live music every night.  Check it out.

Seasons 52 (map & directions)
90 Perimeter Center West
By the Perimeter Mall
Dunwoody, GA 30346
(770) 671-0052
Reservations are welcome, but not required.

Our 2nd lunch date of the week was at Smokejack Blues & Barbeque in Alpharetta GA.  We missed the lunch crowd by arriving at 1:15 PM. 

Smokejack touts themselves as ”a casual restaurant and blues bar in downtown Alpharetta serving up quality cuisine with a side of Southern hospitality in a family-friendly environment.  Combining a chef-driven concept with neighborhood charm, Smokejack offers the best in barbeque from ribs to salmon.”

The atmosphere was laid back.  Country music was playing in the background.  The servers were friendly.  Both of us loved our meal.  My wife’s favorite part was dessert!  She is a banana pudding connaisseur and she said their banana pudding was amazing.  They advertise live local bands.  Another good place to take your honey on a date.

Smokejack Blues & Barbeque
29 South Main Street
Alpharetta GA 30004
Tel: 770-410-7611
Fax: 770-410-7622

Last night I took my honey to La Grotta Restaurant at the Crowne Plaza Ravinia.  The ambiance was subdued which made it conducive to conversation.  We had the chance to catch up on the day’s events.

When we walked into the hotel, my wife commented about how romantic the setting was.  To get to the restaurant, we had to walk down a set of stairs that runs between 2 stone waterfalls on both sides. 

 After dinner, we walked outside where there were more waterfalls and fountains.  Several sitting areas were available for people to sit and talk among the babbling waters.  We walked along the path holding hands and talking.  It was a great wrap up to a wonderful dinner. 

Gerry