Table for Two: Real-Life Romance at Marlow’s Tavern
At Marlow’s Tavern, the menu may bring guests in, but the relationships built around the table keep them coming back. This Valentine’s season, Marlow’s is spotlighting two real-life love stories that began and grew inside its dining rooms, highlighting how affordable luxury, genuine hospitality and chef-driven food can turn a simple night out into something long lasting.
Juliana Pagani and Jonathan Wiliams
First up are Juliana Pagani and Jonathan Williams, whose relationship began behind the bar. They met at Marlow’s Tavern Northlake, where Jonathan was the bar manager and Juliana joined the team. She admits it was not love at first sight. Over time, training, teamwork and a holiday managers’ party brought them back together. Their first date came with a few hiccups, including a wrong address and a near cancellation, but ended with carrot ginger soup in Decatur and the start of a relationship now nearing seven years. Today, Juliana is catering manager at Marlow’s Northlake, while Jonathan serves as beverage manager at Avalon. Their story reflects the realities of the restaurant industry and how shared understanding and passion helped their relationship thrive.
Elyse and Alex Forte
The second story belongs to Elyse and Alex Forte, longtime acquaintances whose first official date took place at Marlow’s Tavern in Brookhaven on Dec. 7, 2020. Alex chose the restaurant for its welcoming atmosphere and reliable favorites. Elyse ordered the black and blue steak salad, while Alex went with the chicken panini, still his go-to order today. The couple now returns regularly, sometimes with their one-year-old daughter, Emma, to relive the place where their relationship began.
Together, these couples show how Marlow’s Tavern serves as more than a neighborhood restaurant. It is a backdrop for connection, celebration and affordable indulgence, from craft cocktails to elevated comfort food.