Gia

Greensboro has been needing a spot like this. With the tagline Drink.Eat.Listen, Gia is my kind of joint. The tapas (small plates) menu changes regularly, but get there soon to try what’s being offered now. Ample seating options, tall bookshelves adorned with art and hardbacks, and what one might call “Dr. Evil” highback chairs, Gia is a sexy, NYC-inspired place, perfect for happy hour or a nightcap.

First and foremost, the wine list is extensive, and the signature cocktails are delightful. The Strawberry Balsamic Martini is exactly what it sounds like – muddled strawberries and vodka are poured into a balsamic vinegar-drizzled martini glass. Don’t be afraid to try this – it’s quite light, but awakens your palate. The Sea Salt Caramel Martini needs just a little tweaking before it’s perfection. It was too heavy on the alcohol – vanilla vodka, baileys, Makers Mark – and heavy cream, not enough salted caramel.

Pineapple and Cranberry Sausage Flatbread is outrageous. Tangy tomato sauce provides a nice base to stringy mozzarella cheese, tart pineapple and slightly sweet and sage-y sausage(yay alliteration!). The flavor combination bursts in your mouth. For just $9 (!), a Petite Filet is topped with Roasted Garlic Truffle Oil, and served with Asparagus. The roasted garlic gives the truffle oil layers of flavor, and makes the tender filet even more decadent. 

The Beet Slider marries bleu cheese with red and yellow beets on a brioche bun, drizzled with a pesto truffle oil. The garlic and basil in the pesto highlight the wonderful richness of the truffle. Thanksgiving-inspired Turkey Tetrazzini features sliced turkey, that's stuffed with a roasted red pepper dressing. They decided to nix the noodles and cheese, but doused the dish in a rich lemon gravy.

Spicy Sausage and Broccoli Rabe is a meal in and of itself. The heat of the sausage just slightly warms the back of your throat, and the broccoli rabe picks up the heat and flavor of the meat to put an exciting twist on an otherwise healthy side.

Grab your girls or your man and hit Gia. All of these tapas are under $10. This is quickly becoming my “go-to” spot.