Oliver’s Drop: February
Love Where You Live
February is the perfect time to slow down, savor the moment, and celebrate the people and places that make life feel full. Whether it’s a date night in, a cozy dinner out, or daydreaming about your next home together, I’ve got you covered. This month’s Drop is all about romance—great food, great drinks, and a little inspiration to help you love where you live (and who you share it with).
The Negroni: Simple, Sophisticated, and Sure to Impress
A Negroni is proof that three simple ingredients—gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth—can create something timeless and impressive. Stir it over ice, pour it into a rocks glass, and garnish with a twist. Want to switch it up? Try a Boulevardier (swap gin for bourbon), a Negroni Sbagliato (replace gin with prosecco), an Old Kingston (with rum instead of gin), or a smoky mezcal Negroni. However you make it, it’s guaranteed to set the mood. Watch me mix up the perfect version—including my own secret twist—and share my favorite variations here.
An Italian-Inspired Date Night In (or Out)
For a date night that feels effortless yet elevated, start with your Negroni of choice and then move on to a bold Tuscan red with Franny’s Fra Diavolo pasta. This dish holds a special place in my heart—my wife and I met in NYC, and some of our best nights were spent over a bowl of pasta at Franny’s in Brooklyn. The restaurant is gone, but the magic lives on in this dish.
Not in the mood to cook? Head to Gigi’s Italian Kitchen in Candler Park—with its red-checkered tablecloths and modern take on Italian classics, it’ll take you straight to a little corner of Rome, no passport required. Nestled among tree-lined streets and historic homes, Candler Park is one of Atlanta’s most charming and walkable neighborhoods, perfect for a post-dinner stroll. Explore some notable Candler Park homes that you’ll fall in love with.
Romance, NYC Style
Even if you can’t go to Franny’s, there’s no shortage of romance in New York. Picture yourself cozied up in front of this stunning Upper West Side home’s fireplace or sipping an aperitif on this TriBeCa loft’s private terrace. For a full-day love affair with the city, start with a leisurely brunch at Buvette, then wander to Bar Pisellino for the best Negroni in town. Indulge in the silky pasta at Via Carota, toast to your love at Dante, and squeeze into a candlelit corner at Bacaro. End the night with a glass of champagne and escargot at the bar at Balthazar—or tucked away at the impossibly intimate Smith & Mills. Dreaming of a NYC escape? Take a peek inside these incredible listings to get inspired.
Set the Mood with the Perfect Playlist
No date night is complete without the right soundtrack. I’ve put together a playlist of soulful, romantic tracks to keep the vibes going all night long. Whether you’re cooking, dancing, or just sipping cocktails with someone special, this one’s for you. Listen here.
February is about more than Valentine’s Day—it’s about appreciating the little moments and the people who make them meaningful. Whether you’re sharing a meal, discovering a new spot, or just creating a space that feels like home, I hope this month’s picks help you love where you live a little more. Let me know what you try, and don’t forget to follow along on Instagram for more. Until next month, cheers!
— Oliver