Dante's Down the Hatch is located near Lenox Mall on Peachtree. It's been an Atlanta mainstay for decades. If you've heard it burned to the ground, you heard correctly. But a restaurant this good was bound to be rebuilt. In fact, there are now two locations with one jazz club in Underground (404/577-1800).
What's the atmosphere like?
To be honest, I did not know what to expect from Dante's. It's sorta a "theme" restaurant in that the interior is decorated like the inside of a Spanish galleon. I was frightened that the waiters would be wearing paper pirate hats! Fortunately, I listened to a friend's recommendation and decided to still check the place out. Instead of being hokey, it was fun yet upscale. We sat on the main deck of the "ship" (an extra $7/pp entertainment charge applies) so that we were right next to the jazz band. There are small rooms with booths in this area, and we were told the farther out you make your reservation, the better table you get. The piano, cello and drum players were all very good without being very loud. Even up close, my husband and I were still able to comfortably hear each other speaking.
How about the food?
This is a fondue restaurant. Start out with an appetizer of bread and apples to swirl around in a pot of melting Swiss cheese. Slowly progress to the main course as you enjoy a bottle of wine from the extensive list. (I had a half bottle of Louis Jadot, since my husband wasn't drinking.) I loved the shrimp. They were lightly breaded, and we cooked them in the provided oil for about thirty seconds each before eating them. My husband preferred the beef. We both liked the different sauces provided in which we dipped our food.
How was the service?
Outstanding.
Biggest draw?
This is a great date restaurant. Fondue takes a while to get through, and the jazz (and Georgia pecan pie) will make you want to linger.
Extra Details
Dante's doesn't open until 4pm Mon-Sat. (Sunday it opens at 5.) The band strikes up at 5pm daily. Dinner for two can easily run over $100 if you order drinks and dessert.
While you're waiting to be seated, check out the snapshots of famous people who've eaten in the restaurant. You'll find everyone from George (H.) Bush to Jimmy Carter.
Enjoy!