The Sleepy Hallow by Ariccia Trattoria & Bar

The Sleepy Hallow by Ariccia Trattoria & BarThe Sleepy Hallow by Ariccia Trattoria & Bar

  • 2 oz. Crème de Cacao
  • 1 oz. Crème de Menthe
  • 1 oz. Cream
  • Chocolate sauce
  1. Chill a martini glass in the freezer for 15 minutes.
  2. Remove the glass and hold it by the stem.
  3. Take a small amount of chocolate sauce in a bottle with a pointed spout or in a piping bag and carefully squeeze the chocolate sauce into the glass so it resembles tree branches.
  4. Mix the first three ingredients into a shaker filled with ice. Shake ingredients together.
  5. Strain into the chocolate-lined martini and garnish with a chocolate branch.
  6. Enjoy!

Auburn’s casual Italian eatery, Ariccia Trattoria & Bar, underwent extensive updates in 2012 to give the space a cozier and more intimate feel. The project included changes to the restaurant, the outdoor patio, the private dining room, and the hotel espresso bar. This was the first remodel since Ariccia opened in 2004.

The beautification was handled by the Atlanta-based restaurant design firm, Johnson Studios. Ariccia’s new style is now fresher and sleeker, giving the restaurant a new world feel while still maintaining the old world culinary concept it is so well known for – using fresh local ingredients to create simple, Italian-inspired dishes. Throughout the year, diners can enjoy a number of special events, such as farm-to-table dinners, craft beer and wine dinners, Pasta Bar, and Sunday Jazz brunch.

The Sleepy Hallow by Ariccia Trattoria & BarDuring the beautification process, the tile flooring was replaced with hardwood, the red brick walls were lime washed to create a brighter backdrop, and half of the tables were removed and replaced with banquette seating and booths to create a more intimate feel. The color palette now includes warm chocolate and mocha hues. Enoteca, the private dining room in Ariccia, now has temperature-controlled wine storage as the focal point in the room. Caffé Siena, the espresso bar, is part of the lobby and serves as the location for guests who would like to grab a quick breakfast or cup of coffee and go.

The new patio features planters with tall hedges that shield the area from the road and create an intimate “secret garden” experience. A fountain serves as the focal point of the patio, and the pergola provides overhead lighting, fans and shade, allowing guests the opportunity to dine outside year-round.

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The Sleepy Hallow by Ariccia Trattoria & BarAbout The Hotel at Auburn University:

Centrally located near the shops and restaurants of downtown Auburn, AL, The Hotel at Auburn University & Dixon Conference Center is just a short walk from the excitement of Auburn University and a diverse array of cultural and entertainment attractions. Whether in town for the big game, a special party, or a productive business meeting, the hotel’s 236 guestrooms and suites offer true Southern hospitality in an ideal setting. For a true taste of Italy, visit Ariccia Trattoria & Bar, located inside the hotel. An open kitchen and outdoor terrace seating add character to this restaurant which serves breakfast, lunch, dinner, cocktails, Sunday Brunch, and offers take-out service. Ariccia features an espresso bar, unique wine list, and has a private dining room for special events. Located next to Ariccia Trattoria & Bar, Piccolo is Auburn’s gathering place for specialty cocktails and a large variety of appetizers and desserts. The menu features a variety of small plates perfect for sharing, refreshing cocktails, and piccolo bottles of champagne. Live jazz performances will take place on Fridays and Saturdays (except on home football game weekends). The property is managed by the Atlanta-based Capella Hotel Group. For additional information or reservations, please visit www.auhcc.com.