Cold Nights in Hot-lanta

Your Nomad-in-Chief recently spent several days in Atlanta for a variety of meetings. My hotel, chosen by my hosts, was the Marriott Perimeter Center – an older property in need of a refresh. Despite the stuck-in-the-80′s feel, the staff was quite friendly and helpful and the suite we used for meeting spacious and comfortable.

The Perimeter is in the Sandy Springs area and is rather desolate: a modern landscape of malls, undistinguished office buildings, chain restaurants, and hotels like the Marriott. Even the W seemed forlorn. Taking a walk one evening I felt like an alient being: the only two-legged creature roaming the concrete tundra.

Still the MARTA was nearby which made it easy to get to the hotel from the airport without burning a lot of fossil fuel.

All was not lost, however. This nomad is not easily defeated. One of my local hosts brought us to the Float Away Cafe, a chic modern spot located in a renovated warehouse. The elijay apple, endive, and raddichio salad with fresh cheddar was crisp and delicious. The calves’ liver appetizer also received raves.  For entrees, the ahi tuna with blood orange was tender and flavorful, the quail with bartlett pears was moist and tender, and the mountain trout with brussels sprouts also got high marks. The wine list was quite reasonable (we had a Terrazano Malbec for $26).

I made two visits to the Woodfire Grill: one for lunch and later for a glass of wine after dinner. The place felt like a chain, perhaps because of its location next to a mall or the design that felt like it could be replicated easily and efficiently – but a Capital Grille sort of chain that was fine for a business lunch or dinner. However, it is a locally owned spot that features many local and organic ingredients. The service was friendly (though it was difficult to get them to stop clearing plates until we’d all finished a course). We four all had the Alaskan Cod lunch special that was flaky and moist with a panko crust. We left pleased.

When I returned later in the evening, I was pleased to find a bar that was dark enough that it felt like a place where adult beverages could be consumed yet light enough for reading a magazine (I find that key when out alone). The wine list was unadventurous but adequate and there was a Hanna special that was quite tasty. I’ll visit again when I am in the neighborhood.

I was also lucky enough to have two home-cooked meals which is a real treat while on an extended business trip. The only words I’ll share on those are praise: both were delicious and generous. The other treat: I snuck into the Varsity for a chili dog and onion rings one day at lunch – a real down-home treat.

Last by not least, should you need to bring a gift for your host or hostess in the event of a home-cooked offering be sure to check out Wine Styles. All of the wine at this shop is $25 or less (so you won’t break the bank) and they offer regular tastings. We found the staff quite helpful and the wines generally of good quality and excellent value. They also stock a nice selection of gift bags. Now you know why we try to list a wine shop, florist, and chocolate shop in every city we cover. We’re still looking for a great florist and chocolatier in Atlanta. Thoughts? Recommendations?