If it's the dinner party  you aspire to but not the preparation, you can add Athens' A-list caterer and personal chef, Marti Schimmel, to your Rolodex.

 

Marti's at Midday, her gourmet eatery, has become a supper club salvation, dishing up savory entrees, salads and Southern-style staples for dining in or for take-away. Building on the success of Normaltown's eclectic mix of businesses, the restaurant's cheery dinning area and sunroom offer a place where you can relax and enjoy your company as much as the food. Sunshine streams in through the windows facing onto Prince Avenue in Athens, lighting the room and accenting the impressionist paintings on the walls.

Expect to be charmed by Schimmel's southern hospitality and engaging attention. But don't be fooled by her bubbly personality and big city style. Behind the designer apron and high heels she's all business, creating innovative menus prepared to delight the palette and inspire conversation.