Krogbar
In the once-grotty but now up-and-coming neighborhood of Inman Park (east of Midtown), this fabulous, tiny wine bar occupies what was once an old pot-bellied-stove factory. The amber-lit, wood-paneled space still has an industrial feel, which is part of its charm (you can wear jeans here and not feel out of place). The well-curated wine list features some 50 labels from Italy and Spain, most available by the glass and all with abbreviated tasting notes on the menu (a Spanish Monastrell from Bodegas Castano, for instance, is recommended for those who like a "juicy, smoky shiraz"). Sommelier Jon Allen will gladly pour you a taste of anything you like; he'll also recommend pairing dishes from Kevin Rathbun's menu of small plates: charcuterie like Serrano ham and lomo (paprika-cured pork loin); grilled artichokes with saffron aioli; and perfectly executed boquerones (anchovy filets).
Tip: If the tapas-like dishes at Krog Bar whet your appetite, Rathbun's (chef Kevin's full-fledged restaurant serving eclectic American cuisine) is in the same building.
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