Bacchanalia

Atlanta's superlative fine-dining, tucked behind the Star Provisions market
Word to the wise: The menu is locked into a five-course prix fixe, but if you dine at the bar you can order a la carte.

Talk of the town: The chefs run a farm outside of Atlanta, where they raise animals they'd always intended to slaughter but are now keeping as pets instead.
In Atlanta's culinary scene, Bacchanalia is often heralded and remains unparalleled. This elegant, modern-American restaurant and its chefs - husband-and-wife team Anne Quatrano and Clifford Harrison - have won all the major national culinary accolades, including a James Beard award in 2003.

The five-course menu can change daily based on what is fresh, local, and seasonal, but the thorough, knowledgeable staff is likely to encourage you to make adventurous choices (veal sweetbreads with plum, peanut, chanterelles, and watercress, anyone?). Although everything is expertly done, the atmosphere is less starchy and more simple than you might expect, guaranteeing an evening that is delectable yet comfortable.