Wisteria Restaurant, Atlanta, GA

WHAT'S NOT TO LIKE ABOUT WISTERIA?

by Ellen "EJ" Sackett

Wisteria Restaurant, located close to the Carter Center near downtown Atlanta, is the kind of trendy that never goes out of style. Dress up or don't bother, this affordable, understated restaurant has its priorities in the right place. The hardwood floors, brick walls, and simple but elegant lighting and décor are a mere backdrop for the main event—the meal. Owner and Chef Jason Hill chose his nouveau-southern-style menu and wine selections carefully for pleasing popularity. I had the to-die-for homemade Pumpkin Ravioli and a garlicky Caesar salad, and my husband chose the lightly-breaded fried calamari and the All Natural Iron Skillet Half Chicken, which he pronounced "the best chicken he'd ever had."

We left room for dessert, but only after we found out that they were small. Ah, but we could order three for only $10—how could we resist? We opted for the carrot cake with bourbon sauce (too sweet), the dark cherry and port wine tart (too tart) and the traditional vanilla crème brulee (just right!).

We went on a Sunday night, perfect for a romantic dinner out, but we hear this place is noisy on the weekends. Make a reservation if you want a guaranteed seat.

$$-$$$

Wisteria, 471 North Highland Avenue, Atlanta, GA (404) 525-3363
Sunday thru Thursday, 5:30 – 10 p.m., Friday & Saturday 5:30 – 11 p.m.
www.wisteria-atlanta.com