Besides romance, red roses and Cupid, Valentine’s Day is synonymous with indulgences. It’s hard to picture this evening ending without you and your honey sharing a forkful of decadent red velvet cake or a spoon of fluffy mousse. In fact, we’re thinking you should skip the dinner menu and go straight for dessert. Good thing we’ve found five tastes that give you one of those “close your eyes and enjoy” moments. Bring out the wine and pick a plate to share with your date for these sweet endings.
Lure
Just off the streets of Midtown, you’ve stepped into a rustic seaside villa with a warm wooden feel and a vibrant bustling atmosphere. Decisions are hard to make when dessert is involved, so opt for the chocolate and bonbon tasting for two. Take turns popping passion fruit bonbons, spicy ginger caramels, Ferrero Rocher roasted hazelnut chocolates, and “nipples of Venus” chocolate truffles.
1106 Crescent Ave., Atlanta. 404-817-3650, www.lure-atlanta.com.
Seasons 52
If you look at a dessert menu and instantly feel like you should hit the gym, reconsider with a rich punch of flavor in a “mini indulgence.” The special Ghirardelli chocolate and raspberry brownie is layered into a shot glass with rich chocolate ganache and raspberry compote. The casually sophisticated dining room sways with music from the piano bar, creating a relaxed evening.
3050 Peachtree Road N.E., Atlanta. 404-846-1552. Also, 90 Perimeter Center W., Dunwoody. 770-671-0052, www.seasons52.com.
Cafe at Cakes & Ale
Slide into one of the counter seats at the Cafe at Cakes & Ale, just on the edge of Decatur Square. The polished white marbled counter provides a perfect backdrop for your shared chocolate souffle with orange liqueur anglaise. Unlike other restaurants, you are here for dessert, so indulge with each rich spoonful.
151 Sycamore St., Decatur. 404-377-7960, www.cakesandalerestaurant.com.
Vin 25
For this special day, the patio is tented in so guests can enjoy the intimate space surrounded by string lanterns and fire pits. It lends itself to a sophisticated neighborhood feel. Stray away from chocolate and order the popular blueberry champagne “toast.” Crisp French toast-style bread is pillowed with the sweet flavors of blueberries and whipped cream.
25 Plum Tree St., Roswell. 770-628-0411, www.vin25.com.
Murphy’s
There is no need to venture beyond the bar or heated patio, where you can settle in among the wine bottles for a cozy evening in the heart of Virginia-Highland. Sink a spoon into the strawberry mousse atop champagne gelee and pair with a glass from the wine shop’s extensive menu.
997 Virginia Ave., Atlanta. 404-872-0904, www.murphys-atlanta-restaurant.com.
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