Atlanta - July 13, 2009

Happy Happy, Joy Joy

Joia Restaurant & Lounge

A free coffee. Fifteen more minutes of sleep. It doesn’t take much to please you, dear.

Precisely why Marco Betti (Antica Posta) and his new resto, Joia, should have you grinning from ear to ear.

The new spot combines a loungy atmosphere (DJ, dance floor, baroque interior) with food chops poised to put a smile on your face.

Chef Brett Maddox’s (Aria) menu runs late night, highlighting Betti’s Tuscan heritage with simple Italian dishes (smoked salmon on homemade focaccia) and contemporary American picks (braised short ribs and flounder filets in lemon caper butter sauce).

Eighty-plus bottles (including reserve labels) round out the extensive wine list, while floor-to-ceiling windows lend a come-one, come-all vibe.

Looks like you’ve found a new happy place.

Joia Restaurant & Lounge, 1100 Crescent Avenue, Midtown (404-537-5000 or joiaatlanta.com).