“And we’ll have the poem for two.” Atlanta restaurant’s Valentine’s menu is truly special

On Feb. 13th and 14th, White Oak will serve up a custom made order of Southern poetry on the same menu as its renowned contemporary Southern cuisine.

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Literally, on the same menu. The downtown restaurant at the corner of Peachtree and Baker streets just named the winner of its 3rd Annual White Oak Kitchen & Cocktail Prize in Southern Poetry. Atlanta resident Paige Sullivan’s poem, “Second Holiday,” emerged victorious in a contest that was open to writers residing in 13 southern states.

Along with a $1,500 prize, Sullivan -- who has a B.A. from Agnes Scott College, an M.F.A. from Georgia State and whose work has appeared in numerous publications -- will see her poem printed on the menus used at White Oak on these most romantic two days.

And it’s not just any menu. Specifically, White Oak’s 6th Annual Evening with French Reds, where the offerings include skate wings, pheasant, chocolate bread pudding and more, all paired with just the right Beaujolais or Chateauneuf-du-Pape.

This year's contest was judged by University of Georgia English professor and acclaimed poet Andrew Zawacki. Submissions were limited to 40 lines and had to center on the topic of faith. Previous year's themes have been nature and -- what else? -- love. This story covers the beginnings of the contest, which White Oak says is part of its "continued effort to show our support for Southern culture and arts."

For information or reservations, call 404-524-7200 or visit whiteoakkitchen.com.