by Rachel L. Miller

We celebrated with a glass of '02 Perrone Moscato Di Asti, an Italian sweet champagne that was recommended by our helpful server. The wine list, by the way, is arranged from lightest to boldest in each category, a helpful feature for those of us who can't pinpoint a wine's taste by name alone.

The flatbread appetizers were excellent - feeling substantial without being greasy or heavy - and the four of us managed to eat most of both varieties.

Our entrees arrived promptly and we were all immediately pleased with the plate presentations. As promised, the portions weren't out-of-control - in fact, my grilled Florida black grouper was just enough to be filling, and when paired with a grilled summer vegetable ratatouille and roasted corn cakes, it was more than satisfying. Leigh-Anne, by the way, didn't have salad; instead, she devoured her salmon entree with its accompanying asparagus. It was a healthy, delicious experience that left both of us wondering why more restaurants don't follow the lead set by Seasons 52.

A tray of the mini desserts offered by Seasons 52..

You'd think a restaurant that prides itself on healthy options and nutritional balance would shy away from a decadent dessert menu. The approach taken by Seasons 52 is quite revolutionary - with $1.95 individually-sized desserts (each one fits in a tall shot glass), you can try one or two without feeling guilty. Our table sampled a variety (there are eight choices of "Mini Induglences" altogether) and found them all to be fresh and delicious. My favorites including the carrot cake (with rum raisin sauce), the blueberry lemon cheesecake and the banana foster sundae - and I didn't feel guilty because I only had a few spoonfuls of each.

And at the end of the meal, we sat back and smiled. We had just eaten a healthy, balanced meal - and instead of feeling overstuffed, we felt fulfilled. And isn't that what good, gourmet dining is all about? (...BACK)