Palate -- October 2009

Located in the original Scottish Rite Hospital, this cafe / wine bar is a great neighborhood drop in place for drinks and/or dinner. The staff was very friendly and knowledgeable. Casual place in Oakhurst would be a great spot for book club. We had the Prosciutto Apple Panini, Caprese Salad, Three Cheese Orecchette (Italian version of Mac & Cheese) and Hummus Plate. Everything was wonderful, especially the Orecchette. All of their ingredients are organic and purchased from Dekalb Farmers Market when possible.

www.palatewinebar.com

Spoon -- September 2009

Awesome Thai restaurant in West Downtown on Marietta Street. We highly recommend the coconut soup and prawn spring rolls as appetizers. Old stand by, Pad Thai, was good and worth ordering again. We also had the special of steamed lobster in curry sauce and it was yummmmyyy!

www.spoonatlanta.com

Repast -- August 2009

Traditional fare with an Asian twist off Ponce near City Hall. We loved the mussels with lemongrass and coconut milk!

www.repastrestaurant.com

Basil's -- July 2009

Mediterranean restaurant in Buckhead with a great patio. Can't pass up the stuffed artichoke! We both got seafood specials and they were phenomenal.

www.basils.net

Queen of Sheba -- June 2009

Ethiopian restaurant in the North Druid Hills. We found this from a magazine article on hidden gems. We had no idea what to order, but the staff was very helpful.

Parker's on Ponce -- May 2009

Reasonably priced, good steak restaurant if you want to avoid the Longhorn's and Bone's. Within walking distance of the Decatur Square. Great patio! Black Truffle Mac & Cheese is to die for as Hallie says. We have been back and have plans to go back again.

www.parkersonponce.com

Leon's Full Service -- April 2009

Known for their pub frites with unusual sauces such as Garlic Aioli (Hallie's favorite) and Goat Cheese Fondue (Nancy's fave). Their menu is quirky and fun, so talk to your server about menu recommendations. They are owned by the same owners as Brickstore and Twains, so the beer selection is extensive. Great place for a drink in the neighborhood or for a game of lawn bowling. The lines can get long and they do not take reservations. Within walking distance of the Decatur Square.

www.leonsfullservice.com