Sage Woodfire Tavern: drink it in
Like a deep red wine, Sage Woodfire Tavern in Alpharetta has a full-bodied attitude and a relaxing, smooth finish. Its provocative ambiance and wood-fire grilled menu make a great pairing for every occasion.
Walking into Sage from the outdoors can be an adjustment. They don't just sell lunch and dinner — they sell a mood. The dimly lit interior is almost blinding in its initial darkness.
A combination of candlelight and other strategic lighting put off just enough glow to see the restaurant's über cool interior of rich, dark wood furniture, beautiful dark draperies, stone walls and nooks. All of it works together to give a sense of privacy even among a full house.
But if hanging out or meeting new people is more your thing, Sage has that too. The tapas bar and lounge area has become one of the suburbs' hottest Happy Hour and late night spots for working professionals. With its colbalt-blue lights and plentiful wine and liquor choices, the bar won't disappoint.
Sage's upscale and modern yet rustic exterior, combined with its cozy interior, recalls California's wine country — perfect considering its menu. Savory appetizers include lump crabmeat mushrooms, Woodfire Rosemary Shrimp and Thai chicken skewers.
Thick soups and fresh salads can be added to meals of goat cheese stuffed chicken, baby back ribs, pasta, seafood and several different cuts of steak, including the Woodfire Grilled Petite Filet. The lounge serves its own hot and cold tapas menu. Try the smoked salmon crostini or the Bimini conch fritters with key lime aioli.
The wine list is nearly as long as both food menus combined. They have whites, reds and a special reserved list. Or, if wine isn't your thing, draft and bottled beers, as well as martinis and champagne are available (in addition to regular tea and sodas).
Reservations and call-ahead seating is recommended for bigger parties.
Posted by Christine Foster
