Dante's Down the Hatch Restaurant; Romance, Jazz, and Fondue in Atlanta

One of the most romantic and unusual dining experiences in Atlanta is at Dante's Down the Hatch, on Peachtree Street, across from Lenox Square Mall.

Dante's is a fondue restaurant styled like an old pirate's ship. Seating is available on the ship, or in an adjoining restaurant area. In my opinion, the best seating is on the ship. Seating is arranged in private booths, other than a couple of tables around a small stage. There is a $7 surcharge per person for seating on-board ship. The small charge is worth it for the intimacy and proximity to the live jazz band, which is exceptional.

Tables are candlelit. Live jazz soothes your mind and spirit, creating a romantic atmosphere. The intimate sharing of fondue cooking and eating lends itself to a perfect atmosphere for romance or celebration.

Service at Dante's Down the Hatch is exceptional; servers go out of their way to make sure you understand the concept of fondue dining, courses, and menu selections. Diners get the sense that servers are there to ensure they have the most incredible dining experience available in Atlanta.

That's exactly what Dante's provides, a dining experience, not just a meal. Dinner begins with a variety of breads and cheese fondue. Main dishes are cooked in vegetable oil, or broth, depending on dietary preference. Meat dishes include a pound of meat, like chicken, pork, beef, or shrimp. Combination platters and vegetable fondues are also available. Vegetables can be cooked, or dipped in cheese fondue.

Servers offer a quick lesson in the art of fondue; ensuring guests understand cooking times for meats and vegetables. Companion diners share a fondue pot. Keeping up with your fondue fork and food in the fondue cooker can get interesting at times.

Dante's creates a nautical atmosphere beginning at the entrance which carries throughout the restaurant. Live alligators sun, under a heat lamp, in the moat which separates the dining area from ship-board dining. Nautical décor embellishes the inside and outside of Dante's