By F.C. Foodie
Special to The Citizen

For many years, one of the complaints about Fayette County was there was not a singular destination for young couples and folks who enjoy going out and enjoying a night out on the town.

Sure, there was the usual suspects of chain restaurants, but a glamourous restaurant and entertainment establishment was not to be found south of downtown Atlanta. Well, one has finally opened in the most unexpected of locations.

The Red Room is in the old Martini’s site in the Westpark Walk Shopping Center. If you ever went to Martini’s, you’ll be stunned at the total renovation of the space. The walls are a deep hue of scarlet and resemble a modern painting with a plaster finish. The bar is red granite and the entire room gives off a funky, yet sophisticated vibe. You could easily imagine this restaurant in Midtown, but we’re fortunate to have it in Fayette County.

The restaurant is divided into two areas; a eating area with a bar and a dance club.
The food ranges from substantial appetizers to sandwiches and salads. One of the best appetizers is the cream cheese stuffed shrimp served with a Thai jelly glaze.

I also enjoyed the crab cakes, which thankfully, were almost 100 percent crab meat, and not breading. The grilled chicken and shrimp skewers are also good and served with a very spicy peanut sauce. I also noticed that fish tacos were on the menu, and after sampling this unique dish on a recent trip to the West Coast, I heartily recommend them. Although it may sound like an odd combination, the tilapia goes wonderful with the usual taco side items.
The crowd seems to be more adult and less frat boy that used to hang out at Martini’s and the restaurants also offers several entertainment options during the week, such as live jazz, DJs on the weekend and local bands.

For residents who want a touch of glamour and sophistication without the tenuous drive to Atlanta, check out the Red Room.

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