The Vinings Inn, at 3011 Paces Mill Rd., is a neighborhood gem. Located in fashionable Vinings, the restaurant is a longtime favorite among locals as well as others in the metro Atlanta area.

Operating out of a quaint building dating back to the 1800s, the Vinings Inn has a charming and romantic atmosphere. Prior to the restaurant, the building once functioned as a convenience store, gas station, apartments and curio shop, according to owner Rick Moore.

The Vinings Inn began as a pub 30 years ago, said Moore, and moved to its current location from across the street in 1994.

Vinings Inn is open Monday through Saturday for dinner and Saturday during luncheon hours for special events such as bridal showers. The restaurant features cuisine with a Southern flare created by Chef Matt Sandback.

The Vinings Inn signature dishes include Peach BBQ Jumbo Shrimp over pablano-cheddar cheese grits, red pepper coulis, fire roasted peppers and caramelized onions and jumbo lump crabcakes.

Responding to economic times, Moore instituted the popular $12 Bailout Menu available at all times, in addition to other menu options.

The $12 Bailout Menu has been a huge success, commented Moore, who has been in the restaurant business for 25 years. "Our customer counts this year are double what they were last year."

Live music, featured Wednesday through Saturday evenings in the Vining's Inn Attic Bar above the intimate dining area, is a big draw to the restaurant in addition to its food.

The Vinings Inn is a sister restaurant to the River Room, at 4403 Northside Parkway in Atlanta, at (404) 233-5455 or www.riverroom.com. The River Room is under the same ownership.

The Vinings Inn continues to attract customers as it has done over the decades. "The Vinings Inn - True Vinings dining."

For more information on the Vinings Inn, call (770) 438-2282 or visit www.viningsinn.com.