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"Gilligan's Island"-meets-super hibachi at this fantasy-themed cult favorite.
Trader Vic's, opened in the Hilton Atlanta in 1976, brings the feel of the Pacific Islands to Atlanta with its exotic interior, Polynesian cuisine, and potent tropical cocktails. Guests can sip fruity concoctions and enjoy tantalizing tidbits in the Mai Tai Lounge or enter the dining room for a gourmet taste of the islands. Located on the lower level of the Hilton Atlanta, Trader Vic?s unique entryway festooned with tropical flora and tall wooden tikis welcomes guests into the captivating restaurant. Colorful glass buoys suspended from the bamboo rafters set the scene in the Mai Tai Lounge where guests can imbibe ceremonial Luau drinks served in festive communal bowls. Trader Vic?s, famous for the invention of the original Mai Tai, has an extensive list of island-inspired cocktails .

"Gilligan's Island"-meets-super hibachi at this fantasy-themed cult favorite.

The Scene
Hidden underneath the downtown Hilton, this large, dark room quickly seduces with elegant kitsch. Vic's Polynesian-themed surroundings overwhelm with carved wooden masks, bamboo, batik, flowered carpeting and the occasional turtle or blowfish dominating the decor. Huge barrel-like Chinese ovens sit in a glassed-in room, where a chef tends to pork, chicken, lamb, beef and salmon. Friendly servers with nametags announcing their birthplace pamper you like Mr. Howell--or Ginger.

The Draw
An ambitious menu boasts a number of slow-roasted, fork-tender meat specialties from "world-famous ovens." The sheer variety of offerings ensures that even the largest of parties can find group happiness. But the real draw is the drinks. From the mai tai to the Scorpion Bowl fit for two (or three), the drinks capitalize on presentation. Cocktails arrive in ceramic coconuts, pineapples and even conch shells, all garnished with fresh fruit and the obligatory umbrella.