The attraction of this quaint Buckhead cottage-turned-café is twofold: first, the atmosphere is that of a laid-back elegance that’s hard to find in the hustle and bustle of downtown Atlanta. The other draw is the fact that, in contrast to some places that call themselves Mediterranean when in fact they serve nouveau Italian or Greek food, the food here really is Mediterranean. Influences for the menu are drawn from Spain, Italy, Greece, and Turkey, while the service remains friendly and familiar. Try the “mesa” appetizer, loaded up with stuffed grape leaves, tabouleh, and house-made hummus and babaghanouj, or the Greek shrimp sautéed with white wine and feta cheese. Flower boxes line the outdoor seating area, making it the perfect dining spot on warm nights.

Basil's Mediterranean Cafe Information:

• American, Mediterranean menu. Lunch, dinner, brunch. Bar. Business casual attire. Reservations recommended. Outdoor seating.