AFOMFT Review: Pacci + AltoRex Rooftop Lounge

Posted by Laura Haynes in atlanta night owl spots, atlanta nightlife, atlanta restaurant, atlanta restaurant reviews

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First up is the Italian resto Pacci, adjacent to Hotel Palomar, and short for beef and tuna carpaccio (chef Keira Moritz's speciality.) The vibe is very chic, giving you that aura of an old-time Italian ristorante with elegant touches in the plush seating and rich colors. I went on a Saturday evening when the place was very dimly lit. Great place for a date night.

We came just for light appetizers and drinks and let me tell you, this place is great for refreshing summer cocktails and apps.

First up for my guest and I were a round of delectable vanilla bellinis (recommended to us by our lovely server). These featured a white peach puree, spanish vanilla liqueur, and Prosecco. By far the most refreshing and interesting flavor-wise I tried all night. (Side note: specialty cocktails at Pricci are $12. Normally this is something I would scoff at, but totally worth the money for a 2 drink rotation to get evening going.)

My favorite appertif was the Grilled Flat Bread with prosciutto, roasted garlic, fresh goat cheese, rucola, and sourwood honey. The flavor combination was excellent, I love the contrast of the goat cheese with the honey. All in all the perfect light summer appetizer. You know its a good dish when you make note to try a homemade version. I haven't tried it yet, but I will let you know how that venture goes.

Next round of drinks were delightfully fruity. The Cherry Apple Sour consisted of a Bulleit Bourbon with black cherry jam, unfiltered apple, and fresh lemon juices shaken. Much tarter than my first drink, but still extremely yummy. My friend ordered the Annie O, Grey Goose Orange, Citronage Pernod with fresh lime and orange bitters. 

Photo Creds: Hotel Palamor (Pacci resto pic). A Few of My Favorite Things Atlanta (Food/Drink pics)

The great thing about the Pacci/AltoRex combo is that the rooftop lounge is just up a winding staircase from the resto. It is only one story up so the views aren't earth-shattering but the crowd is nice and diverse and the landscape/ambience is is serene and of the earthly elements.

The servers conjured up another round of Southern Belles for us (Stoli Vanilla, Licor 43, fresh strawberry, orange juice, lime and ginger beer). And another round of Ocean Breezes (Absolut Citroen, Chamomile Citrus Berry Apertea, St. Germain Elderflower liqueur, and fresh lime) after that.

All in all it was a nice relaxing Saturday night out and a perfect duo for a hot summer night given the plethora of refreshing summer drinks and light fare on the menu.