The Optimist
You’ll forget the ocean is hours away after five minutes in this fish-camp-inspired hotspot. Seafood rules the menu at The Optimist, from the oyster bar to small plates to wood-hearth-roasted fresh catches. Dining here feels like being on vacation—right down to the mini-golf green outside. Order some hushpuppies and a cocktail, putt a round, and enjoy the cool coastal ambiance.
Find it:
914 Howell Mill Rd. NW
theoptimistrestaurant.com
Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams
One thing I love about winter in the South is that it’s never too cold to enjoy homemade ice cream, and this scoop shop never disappoints. All of their artfully crafted ice creams are swoon-worthy, but my favorites include the Brown Butter Almond Brittle and their Coffee with Cream & Sugar ice cream, made with Batdorf & Bronson coffee, roasted right in Atlanta.
Find it:
1198 Howell Mill Rd. NW
jenis.com
