The morning group at City Café enjoy a cup of coffee and friendship

by Martha W. Barksdale

President Bush might do well to drop by Fayetteville's City Café & Bakery early some morning. There, at a table by the wall, sits a group of good friends who have been meeting almost every morning since the 1980s for coffee and conversation.

"We've solved most of the world's problems," says regular Ted Colbert. "Politics, sports, you name it. About the only thing we don't get into is religion."

In addition to Colbert, the group includes Steve and Robyn Weeman, Al Depoe, Bob Dees, Fred Smith, Tommy Webster, Chris Bourgeois, Joe Edens, John Littleton and Tommy Thompson. Dr. Sally Goza joins them on Fridays, as does Ted's wife, Rachel.

As if this early morning togetherness weren't enough, they meet every Friday night with their spouses at a local Mexican restaurant for more merriment.

The group is a diverse mix of retirees and working folks ranging from airline pilots to business owners. All have to defend themselves against the constant teasing and good-natured jibes from their tablemates. The only rule seems to be "don't take yourself too seriously."

No one remembers exactly how or when the group first began the morning ritual, but they know it was in the mid-1980s at Dunkin' Donuts. About four or five years ago, they moved down the street to City Café & Bakery. With its European café atmosphere, City Café & Bakery is the perfect place for friends to meet and visit for breakfast.

"The owners [at City Café & Bakery] have been great to us. We've had retirement parties, birthday parties here," Robyn says.

Don't let the joking around be deceiving. These friendships are deep, with the breakfast club members seeing each other through surgeries, deaths and other disasters. Robyn remembers how they came through for her when her husband, Steve, was seriously injured in a fall from a ladder. Friends drove him to physical therapy in Atlanta every day after he left the hospital.

"This is the best support group you could find," she says, "and all it costs is a cup of coffee."

Your options for dining in Coweta and Fayette counties keep expanding. Try some of the new and established restaurants in the area and you'll make fast friends as you share a cup of coffee or sit down to a delicious meal.

Chin Chin Chinese Restaurant

Once again in 2003, and every year since 1998, Chin Chin Chinese Restaurant has received the Most Memorable Meal Award and been voted the Best Chinese Restaurant by Creative Loafing. The gourmet restaurant receives all this recognition with good reason.

Chin Chin's menu is managed by two top chefs -- John Kuan of Taiwan, rated as one of the 40 Top Chinese Chefs in the World by the Taiwanese government, and James Wong of Shanghai. They combine their talents and present exquisite dishes like Black Pepper Delicacy, Glazed Walnut Mango Prawn and Jade Mounting Scallops. Other delights you can enjoy are Tangerine Chicken, Asparagus Shrimp, Young Ginger Pineapple with Pork, Triple Delicacies and Beijing Duck.

While you enjoy the flavorful cuisine, you'll also be pampered by the elegant atmosphere and attentive servers. Best of all, you'll be surprised at the reasonable prices. Chin Chin offers lunch specials, Chef's specials and dinner specials. Carryout, delivery and catering are available.

Chin Chin Chinese Restaurant'ssuccess in Buckhead has spurred them to expand to 12 restaurants in the Atlanta area. Chin Chin's nearest locations are 1111 Bullsboro Drive, Suite #12 in Newnan. Phone: 770-254-1212, and 2100 Hwy 54 East in Peachtree City. Phone: 770-487-9188. Browse their menu online at www.chinchinatl.com.

Pascal's Bistro

"Pascal is passionate about his food," the server tells us. That's apparent from the delicious
cuisine that you'll find at Pascal's Bistro.

The elegant atmosphere will transport you to a European fine dining experience, where spectacular presentations of food are savored over luxurious furnishings and linen. The friendly staff at Pascal's is eager to ensure that you enjoy every aspect of your meal.

The dinner menu features continental cuisine with specials and seasonal items, as well as an extensive wine list and full bar. Your entrée choices include Tempura Lobster Tail, Steak Au Poivre, Braised Lamb Shanks and Blackened Tuna.

Desserts are especially tempting. Choose from Fresh Berries Napoleon, Bourbon Chocolate Pecan Pie, Créme Brulee, and more.

For lunch, the bistro serves a Pasta Buffet, featuring 14 different meats and fresh vegetables, four types of pasta and four homemade sauces mixed and matched to your personal preference.

Pascal's is located at 217 Commerce Drive in the Westpark Walk Shopping Center, Peachtree City. Phone: 770-632-0112.

Arnie's, The Restaurant

If something's associated with Arnold Palmer, you know it's among the best. Arnies, the Restaurant features the best of regional continental cuisine prepared with the freshest ingredients available. Dining is a pleasure at this high quality eatery.

Arnies, the Restaurant is located at The Palmer Course at Starr's Mill, 175 Birkdale Drive in Fayetteville; call them at 770-460-0877.

Chopsticks China Bistro

For the area's tastiest Chinese cuisine with style, stop in and enjoy a meal at Chopsticks China Bistro. The friendly wait staff will help you navigate their extensive menu.

Some of the appetizers to choose from are the popular Chicken-on-a-Stick and tender Crab Rangoons. Warm up with a soup - try Vegetable, Egg Drop, Won Ton or Phoenix & Dragon, to name just a few.

Besides the traditional entrees of Mu Shu, Lo Mein, Chow Mein and Egg Foo Young, you'll find Black Pepper Orange Roughy, Fresh Coconut Walnut Shrimp, Beef in Black Bean Sauce and General Tso's Chicken.

"We use only white meat in our General Tso's Chicken," says owner Jacky Lin. "It tastes better, and it's healthier. We make sure all our ingredients are fresh so the food tastes as good as it can."

Jacky has worked in the food business for 15 years. He began his training in Hong Kong and has mastered the art of traditional Cantonese cuisine. Bringing quality Chinese food to Fayette County is now a family concern; Jacky's wife Ying and brother Winston work with him at the restaurant.

Chopsticks China Bistro is located in the Peachtree Crossing Shopping Center, 100 N Peachtree Parkway in Peachtree City. Call them at 678-902-1885. Take out and catering are available.

City Café & Bakery

Across from Fayetteville's City Hall, City Café & Bakery serves Continental American and some German dishes. Choose from such tempting dishes as Goulash Soup, Panzenalla Pizza Salad and gourmet sandwiches like Chicken Cordon Bleu on a dressed croissant. The dinner menu includes Stuffed Shrimp, Filet and Wienerschnitzel. And be sure to save room for their mouth-watering cakes and pastries.

Six times a year, City Café & Bakery hosts Evenings of Music. These special events blend delicious food with high-quality entertainment, all for one cover charge. Be sure to make reservations for these memorable evenings and treat yourself to some of the best classical, jazz and musical acts in the area.

A comfortable patio under an oak tree is available for your outdoor enjoyment. City Café & Bakery is located at 215 S. Glynn Street, across from the Courthouse in Fayetteville. Phone: 770-461-6800.

Dragon Lady Chinese Restaurant

In Peachtree City's Westpark Walk, Dragon Lady Chinese Restaurant serves up genuine Chinese cuisine in a beautiful, spacious dining room.

If you're with a large group, treat yourself to one of their Special Family Dinners, for two to six people, that feature Mongolian Beef, Sweet & Sour Pork and more.

Take out is available, as well as a separate room for private parties. Dragon Lady is located at 264 Commerce Drive, in the Westpark Walk Shopping Center in Peachtree City. Phone: 770-631-2883.

The Famous Fish Co.

At The Famous Fish Co., the menu states that their intention is to bring fresh fish to your table, prepared as fish should be eaten, simply cooked and simply plated so that you can experience and enjoy its delicious taste. In this case, good intentions pave the way for heavenly dining.

For lunch, choose from a stylish menu that includes Blackwell's Classic Curried Shrimp Salad Sandwich, and the Cajun Chicken & Cheese Sandwich.

The dinner menu is a delight, too, with starters that range from Gibbo's Gumbo Soup to Prawn Orsmondo and Salmon & Crab Cakes. Among the entrees, you'll find Crab Carbonara and "Parkers Prawns" as big as a baby lobster. Famous Fish also offers several daily specials of filleted fish, cooked in imaginative ways that will excite your palate.

Don't pass on dessert. You're sure to find a favorite among Auntie Stienie's South African Malva Pudding, Knickerbocker Glory and the selection of sorbets and ice creams.

The style of cooking at Famous Fish has a Southern Hemisphere accent with special emphasis on South Africa, the home country of its two founding managers. Famous Fish has four locations - South Africa, London, Norcoss, GA and, locally, in Peachtree City at 300 City Circle, Suite 1520 in the Avenue. Call them at 770-632-1880 or visit www.famousfishco.com.

Gumba's Rotisserie Café

You're going to get a lot more than delicious, healthy food at Gumba's. You're going to make friends. When you step into the quaint café, you'll be greeted by smiles and the aromas of mouth-watering meals. It's like being an honored guest in a family kitchen.

Owners John and Martha Manzo treat their guests to such delights as specially seasoned Rotisserie Chicken, Mama Manzo's Lasagna and Johnny's Italian Hot Wings. Side dishes include Greek Salad and Garlic Mashed Potatoes. There are also 6" and 12" sub sandwiches, including Italian Sausage and homemade soups.

Desserts are special here. With choices like homemade flan, made by a lady born and raised in Peru, to John's mom's Cannoli, you'll be tempted to try them all. If you need catering services for any special occasion in Atlanta or the surrounding areas, Gumba's can help.

Gumba's is located at 290 Hwy 74 N in Peachtree City. Call them at 770-487-8828; fax orders to 770-487-8587; or visit their website www.gumbascafe.com.

La Hacienda

For a true taste of Mexico, stop in at La Hacienda and enjoy one of their many authentic dishes, including Polla a la Plancha, Tomatillo Shrimp and Steak Ranchero. Of course, there are delicious burritos, nachos, fajitas and tamales, too.

La Hacienda is the place to relax. There's a fully stocked bar and on Fridays and Saturdays, live music brightens the dining experience. The family-oriented atmosphere is fun and colorful.

You're sure to enjoy La Hacienda's great food and service. Take out and catering are available.La Hacienda is located at 282 N Highway 74 in Peachtree City; you can call them at 678-216-0180.

Senoia Coffee Company

Whether you want to grab a quick cup of coffee or sit down to breakfast or lunch, Senoia Coffee Company is the place to go. Since it opened in January 2000, the cafe has warmed the spirits of Senoia visitors and residents with its delicious gourmet coffee, roasted right on the premises. Besides the cappuccinos and mocha frappes, Senoia Coffee Company offers thick, delectable milkshakes in a wide variety of flavors; the Chocolate Peanut Butter shake is the most popular. If you're hungry, choose a sandwich, soup or salad from the menu. The Senoia Stacker sandwich is a house specialty, as is the hand-dipped ice cream.

And don't miss the desserts and pastries, including Bourbon Pecan Pie, Triple Chocolate Indulgence and creamy cheesecake. There are even specialty candies and gift baskets available. Local musicians perform on many Friday nights, so bring a group of friends to share the good times.

Senoia Coffee Company is located at One Main Street in Historic Senoia. Call them at 770-599-8000.

Tarathai Thai Cuisine

Fayetteville is home to Tarathai Thai Cuisine, a lunch and dinner spot for delicious Thai meals. For lunch, you can choose from traditional curries and
noodle dishes.

Dinner specialties include Spicy Catfish and Pineapple Fried Rice. Tasty soups and salads round out the meals; for dessert, try Fried Ice Cream, Sweet Rice with Thai Custard or Crispy Fried Banana.

You can find Tarathai at 176 Banks Crossing, between Kroger and Stein Mart, in Fayetteville. The phone is 770-719-4622.

Teavana Teahouse Café & Gifts

There's so much to Teavana Teahouse Café & Gifts, it's difficult to know where to begin. First, it's a sanctuary and community center. You can relax with a pot of tea and visit with friends in a soothing environment.

Next, it's a teashop and cafe, where you'll discover exotic varieties of green, black, red, white and herbal teas from around the world.

It's important to know that tea isn't the only flavorful delight at Teavana. There are also specialty salads ­ including Very Berry, Greek, Oriental and House Chicken Salad ­ soups and sandwiches. Or delve into a bowl of Green Tea ice cream, gourmet cheesecake, baklava or caramel brownie.

Finally, Teavana is a gift shop and artist showcase. You'll be captivated by the work of local photographers, crafters and painters among fine quality kitchenware, home décor and personal care items.

Catering is available and special events are always welcome. Teavana Teahouse Café & Gifts is located in The Avenue, Peachtree City, 202 City Circle, #120. Call them at 770-486-5339.

Valentino's

From the moment you pass the tropical thatched roof and pink flamingo at Valentino's entrance, you'll enjoy the endless summer atmosphere, complete with Jimmy Buffet tunes. These "Italians of the Caribbean" offer food for the pirate in all of us with deliciously prepared steaks, fresh seafood, prime rib, sandwiches and chickens. Escape from the ordinary with their conch chowder, coconut shrimp, jerk chicken or plantains. Not to mention that Valentino's still serves the "Best Italian on the Island."

Valentino's also has a nice selection of affordable wines and beers to compliment the delicious fare all served up in a comfortable relaxing environment. Key lime pie and tiramisu are some of the highlights among their homemade desserts. Discover a treasure of taste in a friendly, relaxing vacation spot, just minutes away from home. The Italians of the Caribbean are located at 460 Crosstown Drive in the Braelinn Village Shopping Center, Peachtree City. Reservations are gladly accepted, or call for take-out at 770-631-7779.

The Village Café

When The Village Café opened in 1990, it aspired to bring the fine dining experience to Fayetteville. Success was certain, and it continues with lunch and dinner menus of Creative American Cuisine featuring deliciously prepared steaks, fresh seafood, chicken, prime rib, sandwiches and salads, as well as daily specials.

You'll find a lot of favorites to choose from - New Orleans Cajun Pasta, Tuscan Meatloaf, Chargrilled Chopped Sirloin and much more. Try the Prince Edward Island Mussels or Homemade Thai Egg Rolls for starters. And finish your meal with the delectable Floating Island or Chocolate Hazelnut Mousse Parfait from their tempting array of desserts.

The atmosphere manages to be sophisticated without being stuffy and the staff is eager to help you enjoy your meal. You can slip in and enjoy a romantic dinner for two or call ahead and schedule special arrangements for a group celebration. The Village Café is located at 175 Banks Station Shopping Center in Fayetteville, 770-460-9449.