The Bottom Line
An Atlanta institution for over 30 years, Dantes Down the Hatch is a one-of-a-kind fondue destination with a giant pirate ship, a moat with real alligators and live jazz nightly. Pirates and themed decor sound like child's play? Think again. Dantes is more appropriate for a unique and memorable date night than a child's party.
Pros
- Fun and interactive fondue menu
- Memorable, pirate-themed (but adult) environment
Cons
- Chocolate fondue must be requested in advance
Description
- Dantes is located in Buckhead at 3380 Peachtree Street, Atlanta, GA, 30326
- For information on chocolate fondue or to make a reservation, call 404-266-1600.
- Dantes consists of thirteen different mini-levels and has a variety of spaces for private events.
- Find out more about the unique environment and see a photo gallery online.
Guide Review - Dantes Down the Hatch - An Atlanta Fondue Experience
Dante (yes, you'll likely meet the man himself on your visit) runs his restaurant with one simple, laid back philosophy:
"A better mixed drink... employees who give a damn... and an atmosphere both genuine and relaxed."
That should give you an idea of what to expect when setting foot in this fondue restaurant built to resemble a Mediterranean wharf. You'll be greeted by live alligators in a moat around a giant pirate ship (yes, you can dine on the ship!), but this all-out theme restaurant is an adult oasis where the drinks are strong and the sounds of jazz music fill the air. Dante's is a place for visitors and locals alike to get lost and get away from it all.
The menu is standard fondue fare. Though I've heard some gripe over paying high prices to cook your own meal (not just at Dantes, but with fondue everywhere), I enjoy the interactive experience that creates conversation and lets friends linger over an extended dinner. Dantes offers less flavor options than other fondue restaurants like The Melting Pot, but the overall experience makes up for the lack of sauce. Dishes are served in 1/2 lb portions and everyone shares a communal pot for cooking. Ingredients are always high-quality and homemade. There are also a few non-fondue items on the menu, including appetizers, cheese plates and desserts.
One need-to-know fact is that chocolate fondue is quite the affair at Dantes. Unlike other fondue chains, this specialty of the house must be reserved in advance and they only do one serving each evening. In fact, Dante even recommends eating elsewhere and then waiting 2-3 hours before arriving for your chocolate extravaganza! If you're interested, be sure to call and find out all the details for a seamless experience.
