Atlanta's acclaimed pastry chef Claudia Martinez finally has a place to call her own. The multitime James Beard semifinalist cut the ribbon late last year for Bar Ana, a lush little spot showcasing her creative, seasonal desserts.
Finding your way there takes a minute. The bar is in the basement of El Ponce Mexican restaurant in Poncey-Highland. Visitors access it via a serpentine route through the parking lot, across the back patio, and around the building's corner to a dark-green door marked Bar Ana in stylish gold font.
Past the cave-like vestibule, you'll find a chic retreat awash in warm shades of green, rose, gold, and ivory. The design features dark wood floors, stucco arches, and a dramatic ceiling trellis laced with vines.
Standout drinks include the Ana daiquiri with Caribbean rum, passion fruit, vanilla, and cardamom, and the Guava G&T. Mayim Williams, an alum of Kimball House, leads the beverage program. Martinez takes inspiration from her Southern roots and Latin heritage for the dessert menu.
