This year is extra special at the Ritz-Carlton in Buckhead. The theme for this year’s décor is “The Nutcracker,” in honor of the 50th Anniversary of Atlanta Ballet’s Nutcracker.
Those fuzzy feelings were evident during my last visit to the Ritz's Cafe for Thanksgiving. I invited my wife and daughter on this outing. This delectable never-ending smorgasbord of all Thanksgiving treats "and then some," is an experience to relish for a lifetime. Whether you're a resident of the Atlanta metro area or a holiday visitor to the ATL, splurge for the evening and relax with a world-class meal.
Here are some words of warning when visiting the Ritz for their holiday buffet: arrive hungry. This isn't just a meal at the Ritz. This is a feast. I started with the meat carving station with moist turkey and prime rib and even pig. I admit that last one was an adventure for me. Next, I hit the seafood bar that features jumbo shrimp and oysters. Once I was done sampling the surf and turf, I went for the various meats and cheeses as well as a variety of pastas. My favorite side was the risotto hands down. Since I'm a major risotto fan, I must get the recipe. There was a dizzying array of roasted veggies that were perfectly spiced.
I had to go easy on the mashed potatoes, because I needed to save what little room I had left for the plethora of desserts. My daughter somewhat adhered to this rule . Of course, the sweet treats were a hit with her. Nevertheless, there is plenty of nutritious and delicious items on the menu for the children, pre-teen and adolescent set.
Service and atmosphere at the Ritz is world-class. Attentive servers are always on hand to make sure that your meal is perfect.
A few years ago, I had the pleasure to experience the Thanksgiving brunch in The Dining Room. I confess that this recent visit trumped my earlier experience. The Cafe's layout is livelier and looks out on Peachtree Road's action. My wife, daughter and me enjoyed the view so much, we had to take a brisk walk over to the massive Lenox Square Mall across the street.
BUFFETS ON CHRISTMAS AND NEW YEAR'S
If you missed Thanksgiving at the Ritz, there are plenty of chances to experience special offerings at the Ritz during the holiday season.
The Holiday Sunday Brunch will be offered on December 6, 13 and 20 from 11:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The cost is $58 per adult and $28 per child.
A “Children’s Nutcracker Tea” will be held Sunday, Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday, December 20, 21, 22 and 23, 11 a.m. and 2:30 p.m., $52 per adult, $47 per child. The event features appearances by young dancers from Atlanta Ballet’s “Nutcracker” performing vignettes from the famed ballet. The cost is $52 per adult, $47 per child.
Brunches and dinners are also available on Christmas and New Year’s. The prices range from $58 for the brunches and $75 for the three-course New Year’s Eve dinner.
If you’re wishing to stay overnight on New Year’s, look into their one-night package on December 31, 2009 which starts at $349.
The Ritz-Carlton, Buckhead is located in uptown Atlanta. For information or room reservations, please call (800) 241-3333, the hotel directly at (404) 237-2700, a travel professional or visit www.ritzcarlton.com.
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