Author Archives: Tameka Jo Pauldo

Swim with Sharks at the Georgia Aquarium

Only one place can boast as the world’s largest aquarium and have a months-long waiting list for one of its exhibits- and that’s the Georgia Aquarium. Safe to say it’s one of Atlanta’s most popular destinations, pulling in millions of sightseers from around the world, and drawing even the likes of celebrities to its 550,000 square feet facility. It boasts a whopping eight million gallons of aquatic life, including over 100,000 exotic mammals from 500 different species.

Local visitors and tourists alike are overcome with wonder and excitement when exploring the scenic paths of more than 60 exhibits – with the main attraction being the Ocean Voyager. The Ocean Voyager exhibit houses thousands of fish including whale sharks, zebra sharks, sawfish, bowmouth guitarfish and humphead wrasses. Offering a swim and dive program, novice guests can take a dip with these gentle giants as their voyage with the largest fish in the world comes complete with mask, fins, booties and wet suit to round out your scuba gear. Skilled water enthusiasts can take an even bigger plunge as certified divers can journey underwater. If being hands-on isn’t your thing, watch all the action through a picturesque window.

Such an adventure is bound to work up an appetite for Café Aquaria – the resident eatery – which serves up traditional classics like burgers and fries, pizza and ice cream, or onsite catering from Wolfgang Puck, where you can gaze into an eye-popping backdrop of fish. It also hosts special events from weddings to Mother’s Day brunches. What other restaurant allows you to swim or just eat Wolfgang Puck in the company of sharks?

M Bar and Fuse Lounge: The Atlanta Bar and Lounge Experience

M BAR offers its guests the definitive Atlanta bar and lounge experience. From after work to after hours, the quintessential nightspot fuses the appeal of a high-energy bar and an ultra exclusive lounge. M BAR and FUSE LOUNGE are two boutique concepts sharing one intimate space.

If a more intimate high-end experience is what you’re seeking, FUSE LOUNGE serves as a VIP getaway and provides an exclusive setting with first class service.
Melding the character of the historic Castleberry Hill Arts District, M BAR dazzles even the most seasoned nightlife connoisseur. Its contemporary setting merge with signature cocktails, savory eats and Atlanta’s hottest DJ’s to create a sensational guest experience. M BAR sets itself apart from Atlanta’s traditional bars and lounges. Our VIP room, FUSE LOUNGE, is a boutique-sized getaway for intimate experiences and casual conversation. Featuring its own private bar and banquettes, guest can enjoy more discreet quaint interaction.

By now we’re sure you’re wondering what the “M” in “M BAR” stands for. It’s our signature blend of Music, Martinis, Margaritas, Mojitos and Mimosas. M BAR is well equipped to fulfill any entertainment, social or cultural craving you may have. In addition to our ambiance and cocktails, any of our signature dishes will satisfy your palette. Featuring American classics mixed with modern favorites, the restaurant caters to guests seeking a casual meal or a social dining experience. Guests boast about our famous turkey sliders, 100% lump crab cakes and our most beloved Grandma’s Apple dessert. Your trip would definitely be in vein if you don’t cap off the night with at least one of Atlanta’s most sought after cocktails: Beso del Dia White Sangria, Super Head, Monkey Love Martini, or Cinnamon Toast Crunch Rum Punch, just to name a few.

FUSE LOUNGE
FUSE is the ultimate blend of intimate dining, cocktails and lounging. This boutique-style lounge, located in the rear of M BAR, is equipped to accommodate up to 80 people with 40 seated. FUSE was designed for the mature and crafted for the sexy. This space hosts a collage of design masterpieces; from our custom zebra wood walls to our walnut woodwork and floating granite bar. The feeling that radiates from this venue has been characterized as mature, romantic and mischievous, and customized for those teetering on the wild side. FUSE is the perfect venue for all occasions. Call to request a viewing with our events coordinator or join us for dinner and enjoy one or more of our delicious specialty cocktails. Ultimately, our impeccable service and attention to detail will undoubtedly make your experience a delicious memory, never to be forgotten.

The Palm: A Classic Family Steakhouse

For years food has brought families together around the dinner table and no one values this tradition more than the owners of The Palm Restaurant.

Recognized as one of the top steakhouses in Atlanta, The Palm boasts an impressive celebrity guest list.

The dining room is uniquely decorated in classic cartoons and caricatures of local regulars, politicians and celebrities covering its walls. Old world charm and hospitality provides an inviting atmosphere while delectable primed aged steaks, jumbo Nova Scotia lobsters and Italian fare line the menu.

The Georgian Terrace is the Grand Dame of Atlanta’s Hotels

Built in 1910, The Georgian Terrace holds a special place in Atlanta’s history, with its rich heritage and elegant charm. Once dubbed Atlanta’s “Paris hotel,” the building’s nineteen-story design features stunning architectural details, floor-to-ceiling Palladian-styled windows, white marble columns along with crystal chandeliers, making it the grand dame of hotels in the city’s glamorous midtown district.

Saunter the Italian tiled floors to your spacious, luxurious suite with classic furnishings and modern amenities including full kitchens, pillow-top mattresses with 300-thread count cotton bedding, 37-inch flat screen HD TVs and complimentary Wi-Fi. Feed your soul inside the hotel’s Livingston Restaurant and Bar, where guests can dress up for a four-course evening at the restaurant or dress down for cocktails and a light supper at the bar, while surrounded by classic architecture and early 20-century glamour.

Whether you’re a local in need of a “staycation” or visiting from out-of-town on real vacation, there’s an exclusive package catered to your specific needs, such as the Pampered Girlfriends or Romance Special.

While The Georgian Terrace first opened its doors a century ago, it still remains a notable Atlanta landmark located on the corner of Peachtree Street and Ponce de Leon Avenue across from the world-renowned Fox Theatre. It also accommodated the likes of American Idol winner Fantasia during her time in the city as the star of The Color Purple Broadway musical.

Aja: Where Trendy South Meets East Cuisine

Aja is where Kim Zolciak and Kandi Burrus had their joint b-day bash on the Real Housewives of Atlanta, but if highfalutin, pseudo-celebs isn’t your thing, Aja Restaurant and Bar is a hit with all trendy Atlanta diners.

Housed in the former Emeril’s location in Buckhead, its two story frame is adorned with red and black Asian-inspired décor and wall art, of which a 10-foot brass Buddha – straight from Thailand – sits in the middle of the dining room as the main attraction. In the sleek open space, the second floor overlooks the downstairs lounge area where guests can people-gaze from up top.

You can’t have a modern Asian kitchen without the pan-Asian flavors of Dim Sum on the menu, which is just a sample of the 20 diverse cuisines including Chinese (Peking Duck), Thai (Thai Red Curry), Indian, Vietnamese and Japanese. Serving lunch and dinner, enjoy a sushi roll on your work break inside the private dining room, or sip signature Mai Tai’s during after hours while taking in the views of the beautiful Buckhead skyline on the sprawling outdoor lounge, where relaxing is the norm.

Described by its owner as a club-cum-restaurant – this hip establishment takes on a nightclub vibe in the late evening, as an in-house DJ spins your favorite mixes on Friday and Saturday nights.

Insider’s Tip: Offering new weekly specials every week ranging from ½ price bottles of wine on select nights and $5 sushi rolls during limited times, be sure to call ahead or check their website for exclusive discounts.

Luna: Fashion of a Goddess

Options are endless when searching for the perfect outfit, but there’s no reason to settle for cookie cutter when you can have unique at Luna boutique. In the heart of prestigious Buckhead, this chic and sophisticated women’s specialty shop has one-of-a-kind finds from custom-made jewelry, belts and handbags to designer tees, distressed jeans and snappy dresses – making it an Atlanta fashionista go-to spot. Luxury brands such as Trina Turk, Velvet, J Brand and Citizen adorn the racks. Headed to a cocktail party, vacation in Cancun or Saturday picnic? The right ensemble suited for any occasion is behind these vintage-wooden glass doors.

The garden inspired backdrop with hints of ivy etched along the walls sets the tone for a tranquil-like shopping experience. Unique fabric gazebos serve as dressing rooms to round out the courtyard feel and al fresco décor. Attentive staff make size exchanges, clothes swaps or needed style advice a breeze, and is just one of the few perks to expect during your visit.

For all the couture goddesses who are unable to leave the abode, journey through cyberspace to unearth select inventory online and fill up that virtual shopping cart.

Twelve Reasons to Love TWELVE Atlantic Station

Behind the sleek glass doors of TWELVE Atlantic Station lies urban sophistication, as the stylish décor and modern furnishings take this boutique hotel beyond drab to fab. It’s all about location, as this preferred luxury boutique hotel sits in the heart of the bustling midtown district.

Standing 26-stories high, these chic one and two bedroom suites offer skyline views, contemporary designs, luxurious linens and 24-hour room service. The simplicity of GHOST in-room technology is indeed paranormal as guests can access the internet to check e-mail, the latest news and weather updates, or reach concierge and housekeeping with the click of a mouse. Amenities such as complimentary Wi-Fi, fitness center, outdoor pool and fully-equipped kitchenette with stainless steel appliances and granite countertops are parallel to your dream condo in the city – making you feel right at home.

If urban cool describes you, commune with the movers and shakers and young professionals at the onsite bar, Lobby at TWELVE, which is open to the public. Watch as the chef prepares your favorite traditional American dish with a modern twist in the open-style kitchen where a wood-burning grill and pizza oven serve as the backdrop.

Situated at the forefront of one of Atlanta’s vigorous live/play communities – access to trendy bars, upscale restaurants and prime retail shops is right at your footsteps – within walking distance to each other. Of course, they didn’t forget about those kid-friendly trips, offering Georgia Aquarium, World of Coca-Cola and Family Date-Night packages.