We took some out of town friends to this restaurant last night and once again, it did not dissappoint.  Blue Grotto is a surprising find in a strip mall restaurant. The food is very creative and excellently prepared.

The restaurant calls itself a Sushi and Tapas restaurant – an odd combination.  Finger foods from Japan and Spain?  Actually, they are from all over the world and excellently done.  The sushi rivals restaurants we frequnt that are specifically sushi bars, though the selection is smaller.  You complement it, however, with tapas-like dishes from all over the world – Chicken Satay, Chorizo and Potato Empanadas, French styled lamb on eggplant, low country Shrimp and Grits – there is something from every continent.  Every dish was perfectly prepared and presented.

We had dinner for 4 adults and a munchkin, with no alcohol, for $100 before tip, ordering 8 dishes shared around the table.  This is our favorite restaurant for entertaining guests.

My wife and I went to Tantra Restaurant in Atlanta last night, for the third time.  We both strongly recommend this restaurant as a romantic getaway.  Besides the quiet and intimate atmosphere, featuring a tantric theme, the food is excellent, creative, and moderately priced.  For example, last night, we each had a 3 course dinner for $25.00 per person (appetizer, main course, desert). 

The meals are sensual; each plate has a variety of tastes, aromas, and textures.  On each visit, we have tried different dishes, and have never been disappointed.  My favorite so far has been the Elk.

On the first Tuesday of each month, they feature “Tango at Tantra” where they open up the dance floor to the patrons and play tango music – reinforcing the romantic atmosphere.  The floor was continually occupied as the couples dining there practiced their Tango skills.

Highly recommended.  One of our top 10 restaurants in the city.