This Spanish restaurant pays homage to a type of pig that hails from Spain. The cured meat of the Iberian pig, Jamon Iberico, is a much sought-after delicacy that this restaurant slices right in front of diners. The menu includes tapas in keeping with the Spanish theme, including manchego mac 'n' cheese, pork cheek tacos and barbecued octopus. Spanish-themed main courses range from Spanish lamb ribs to eggplant rellenas. The restaurant serves meat sourced from grain and grass-fed animals, and has taken initiatives to conserve energy and water.

The Marlay House is a Dublin-style pub that is incredibly authentic. Menu items include normal pub fare like burgers and sandwiches, but anyone wishing for a taste of the old country can indulge in shepherd's pie, bangers and mash, fish and chips, or the delicious Scotch eggs. The beer list is equally satisfying, with choices like the ubiquitous Guinness. In fact, one of the dessert offerings is a Guinness float: a pint of beer topped with vanilla ice cream. Kids are welcome at The Marlay House, and there is a special menu just for them. -Beth Dolgner

Housed in the historic Scottish Rite Hospital in the heart of Oakhurst Village, Palate offers a laid-back, community atmosphere without sacrificing elegance. The café is also a great resource for oenophiles: Palate sells wine by the bottle. The simple menu has Italian overtones. Appetizers include bruschetta, the hummus plate, or the classic bread and olive oil. In addition to a wide array of paninis, Palate's dinner menu offers roasted garlic and rosemary chicken, macadamia-encrusted scallops, and old-fashioned meatloaf. Make sure you leave room for dessert: they change often and the best bet is to look inside the dessert case instead of in the menu. -Beth Dolgner

The edgy, contemporary Push-Push Theater likes to push the boundaries of standard theatrical performance. Throughout the course of the year, Push-Push Theater produces over 280 performances, ranging from theater to film. Workshops allow both actors, audiences and artists to learn more about the craft of theater. There are snacks and beverages, including wine and beer, available at performances. Reservations are recommended, as shows tend to sell out on both the main and smaller stages. Prices range from USD12-25 for the main stage and USD5-15 for the smaller stage: typically, Push-Push Theater uses the pay what you can afford method within those price ranges. Times vary according to the shows, so be sure to check the website. -Beth Dolgner

The most unusual bar in East Atlanta Village combines a new take on the Internet café with the growing trend of hookah bars. Embracing the growing popularity of hookah smoking, iLounge has them available for a fee. The toughest decision will be choosing one of the 38 available hookah flavors. Chocolate mint or Cuban Mojito? Gingerbread or Blackberry? Seats line the wall and are flanked by trendy, art-deco style coffee tables. Each table features an outlet in case anyone wants to plug in and work. For a fee, access the upstairs loft with a giant king-sized bed. The full bar specializes in specialty iMartinis. Outdoor seating offers fresh air. -Beth Dolgner

With the proliferation of chain ice cream shops, it's rare to come across the old-fashioned independent store. The cozy East Atlanta Village Ice Cream Shop serves a variety of hand-dipped Blue Bell ice cream flavors, whether it's for a cone, a shake or a sundae. Fruit smoothies and other desserts made in-house are also on the menu. The East Atlanta Village Ice Cream Shop, as its name implies, is a longtime fixture in East Atlanta Village. The shop's location makes it an ideal place to stop and cool off with a cone while strolling the Village's many shops. -Beth Dolgner

Welcome to the first fine dining area to be established at the Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, where they serve up the best and freshest in international fare. To take you away before you fly away to your destination, the restaurant-bar is somewhat hidden from the busy passersby going to and fro at Terminal E. If you don't have enough time for a meal, feel free to make a quick stop at One Flew South to have a drink from its critically acclaimed bar.

Friday and Saturdays are party nights for Atlanta's hip and happening crowd when they head to Rain Night Club & Lounge to experience a jovial time. The club hosts DJ nights and concerts by local musicians to move the crowd to the tunes of R&B, Hip-Hop and some Rap as well. These eclectic performances tempt the zealous patrons at Rain to come forward to shake a leg. The vibrant decor, spectacular lights and phenomenal acoustics create a perfect atmosphere for a night-out. What's more, until midnight, your gang of girls can walk in for free! Check website to know more.

Located a few miles from Atlanta in the city of Marietta is the Earl Smith Strand Theatre which impresses from the word go! Located in a splendid architectural building, this theater has played host to some of the finest theatricals, musicals and dance performances. Truly a world class facility, it can also be rented out for lectures, product launches, anniversaries, parties, seminars, meetings and more. Check the website for a list of upcoming events.

The Laughing Skull Lounge enjoys its midtown location amid tourists, locals, students and families who step into this intimate little space that has only 3 rows of stadium style seating. The comedians are among the best which also explains the sellout shows which see patrons returning back for more to lap up! The lounge can be hired for private, business and cultural events when there are no acts lined up for that particular day. Please note that food and drinks are not served, and smoking is not permitted. Check website for upcoming events.