December 2010 Issue

Visit us online for our latest printed issue: http://www.thehudspethreport.com/dec.10.album

TASTES, TRENDS & FLAVORS

Margherita on the move, 
dinner and the blues

Recognized by the Festa Della Pizza in Naples, Italy as ‘Best Pizza in the United States’ for 2010, Giavanni Di Palma’s year-old Antico Napoletana on Hemphill Avenue in Midtown has been joined by a sister venue.  A food truck named Antico Express.  The new pizzamobile is manned by locals, Lori & Dino McDowell, who travel about and feature the margherita and pepperoni versions (which are heated from frozen) at events in Daytona Beach, Talladega and Atlanta Motor Speedways... The 2010 Silver Spoon Awards for ‘Georgia’s Top 10 Dining Destinations’ have been announced from Georgia Trend. “The publication says every one of the moving-and-shaking restaurants revels in fresh, local ingredients, with great-tasting but original inventions often inspired by Southern classics like chicken and dumplings, smokehouse meats and good whiskey. You could almost imagine the state’s dining scene as one of S&W’s recently reopened grand Art Deco cafeterias, like those in Asheville, N.C. and Knoxville, TN. (Atlanta’s downtown location was, of course, torn down.) The crystal chandeliers and worn Italian marble stairs recall a time when Southerners thought their meat-and-threes deserved such shrines. Now, it seems, the shrine won’t be the setting, but the food itself. Maybe that’s real progress.” Local contenders making the list include Restaurant Eugene in The Aramore on Peachtree Road, Rathbun’s on Krog Street, Carver’s Country Kitchen on W. Marietta Street, Bacchanalia on Howell Mill Road and MF Buckhead on Peachtree Street.  Making the list outside the Atlanta area includes the Georgian Room at Sea Island, 61 Main in Jasper, the Greyfield Inn on Cumberland Island, Five & Ten in Athens and Elizabeth on 37th in Savannah...  Food & Wine magazine has announced its picks for ‘Top 25 Burgers in America’ and two local burger joints made the list: Holeman & Finch Public House on Peachtree Road gets raves for its 10 p.m. ‘burger time’ that sells out within minutes;  and Farm Burger in Decatur for the ‘build it’ options including unexpected toppings like cured lardo, oxtail marmalade and roasted bone marrow. 

Happenings...

Located in the Old Fourth Ward, Café Circa presents Dinner and the Blues, a series of Monday evening performances featuring celebrated Atlanta blues vocalist Francine Reed. Café Circa is also offering a two-course dinner special - choice of an appetizer or a dessert and an entrée - on the nights Reed performs created by new executive chef Hopeton S. Hibbert for $20.  Reed is slated to perform on Monday evenings from 7 to 10 p.m. on December 6th, 20th and 27th. For more information or to make a reservation, visit www.cafecircaatl.com or call 404.477.0008....  Davio’s Northern Italian Steakhouse is celebrating the holidays with a kid-friendly event on Saturday, December 4th and again on the 11th. Pastry Chef Kathleen Miliotis will host a gingerbread-decorating party from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. at the Buckhead restaurant.  The cost is $25 per child (must be accompanied by an adult) and includes a pre-made gingerbread house that each child can decorate with Davio’s selection of colored frostings, candy and sprinkles.  Space is limited, call 404.844.4810 to reserve a spot.  Davio’s is located in Phipps Plaza at 3500 Peachtree Road.  For more info, visit www.davios.com... On Monday, December 6th, comes the third event in the ‘Restaurant Eugene Author Dinner Series,’ a “cook and book” night with David Tanis of Chez Panisse in Berkeley, CA, who will present his new book, Heart of the Artichoke and Other Kitchen Journeys. As usual, Restaurant Eugene’s  chef/owner, Linton Hopkins, will be preparing a four course dinner inspired by the book, and this time he will be joined by guest chef, David Sweeney of Dynamic Dish.  The event begins with a reception at 6:30 p.m. and the dinner, four courses with pairings, will start at 7 p.m. Reservations are required, 404.355.0321. Seats are priced at $115, including a signed copy of book.... It’s tea time at Southern-inspired Watershed. The Decatur eatery is launching a ‘Southern Afternoon Tea’ on Thursday, Dec. 2 and it will continue weekly, every Thursday through Saturday from 3 to 5 p.m.  Cost is $15 per person and Tea Time includes organic loose tea with a variety of savory & sweet snacks prepared by chef Joe Truex (formerly with Repast) including varied items such as toasted pecans, cheese straws, tea cakes, pound cake and selected sandwiches, such as curry shrimp, goat cheese & cress, and pimento cheese. Watershed is located at 406 W. Ponce de Leon Avenue in Decatur and reservations are required, 404.378.4900... Alpharetta neighborhood mainstay Village Tavern invites Atlantans to get in the holiday spirit by hosting its ninth annual ‘Breakfast with Santa’ on Saturday, December 11. The morning kicks off at 9 a.m. with Santa’s arrival atop a fire truck, then it’s on to the breakfast buffet and a morning filled with fun.  Every child will meet Santa personally (don’t forget your camera).  Santa will also read The Night Before Christmas. Bloody Marys and mimosas will be available for adults. Tickets are $10 for children under 12 and $15 per adult. Space is limited, so call 770.777.6490 to make a reservation. Village Tavern is located at 11555 Rainwater Drive, Alpharetta.  Visit www.villagetavern.com for more.

New Year’s Eve...

The following restaurants have special evenings planned for New Year’s Eve.  Please contact the venues for details: Pura Vida, 656 N. Highland Ave., 404.870.9797, www.puravidatapas.com; Canoe, 4199 Paces Ferry Rd., Vinings 770.432.2663, www.canoeatl.com; Haven and Valenza, 1441 Dresden Dr., Brookhaven, 404.969.0700, www.havenrestaurant.com, www.valenzarestaurant.com; Bocado, 887 Howell Mill Rd., 404.815.1399, www.bocadoatlanta.com; Sal Grosso, 1927 Powers Ferry Rd., Atlanta, 770.950.1540, www.salgrosso.com; and H. Harper Station, 904 Memorial Dr., 678.732.0415, www.hharperstation.com.

News to chew on...

Taqueria del Sol, with locations on Cheshire Bridge Road and W. Ponce de Leon Avenue, has experienced success with their offering of Chef Eddie Hernandez’ weekly special tacos ranging from the authentic Al Pastor to the imaginative Sloppy Jose. Available sporadically, the flavors and scarcity of the dishes leads to multiple visits within the same week for some diners. Beginning December 1st, Taqueria del Sol will reward their  taco-devotees with ‘Tacomania,’ where guests of the restaurant will be able to cast their ballot for their favorite special taco. The winning taco will be on the menu during the month of January and the runner-up on the menu during the month of February. Guests can vote for their favorite special taco while dining at each location. Voting ends at close of business on Thursday, December 23. For more information, visit www.taqueriadelsol.com... The East Atlanta Village ice cream shop, Morelli’s Gourmet, recently announced via a blog that instead of closing for the winter months, they are looking into starting a delivery service very soon. Located on Moreland avenue in Atlanta, the shop specializes in homemade ice cream and desserts including such flavors as coconut jalepeno, maple bacon brittle, chocolate bourbon, ginger lavender, banana cream pie and Krispy Kreme among many others. Visit www.morellisicecream.com for details... Cafe di Sol chef Andy Long has set up a Belgian-style street fries stand outside his eatery at N. Highland and serves the eats every Saturday and Sunday beginning at 12:30 p.m.  Nearby Pura Vida’s chef, Hector Santiago, also operates a stand, the Burro Pollo Burrito Stand, in the parking lot across from his N. Highland restaurant on Saturdays and Sundays as well from noon until the-chicken-runs-out.

Menu updates...

Due to market conditions, SOHO American Bistro in Vinings, was forced to remove one of their most popular items from the menu, Sea Bass.  This month marks the return of the dish with an improved edemame ravioli in tow as well as baby bok choy and lemongrass buerre blanc.  The ravioli is tossed with sauteed shitake mushrooms & snow peas and served with a coconut curry cream sauce.  SOHO is located at 4300 Paces Ferry Road, 770.801.0069.  Visit www.sohoatlanta.com for details...  Six Feet Under Pub & Fish House on Memorial Drive in Grant Park has announced its new fall menu items adding: The Filthy Vox Martini (chilled Vox Vodka, extra dirty, a splash of vermouth & bleu cheese stuffed olives) for $9.50; Six Feet Under baked oysters topped with Cajun white wine sauce, ground Andouille sausage, diced red peppers and Parmesan & fried leeks ($10.50); as well as fried scallop or fried oyster chowder served New England-style with new potatoes & leeks, topped with your choice of the scallops or oysters (cup/bowl $4/$6)... Chef Zeb Stevenson, the recently appointed executive chef of Livingston Restaurant + Bar, has unveiled a new menu with focus on marrying modern, seasonal flavors with classic sensibilities. Menu items include starters such as golden beet carpaccio with champagne-vanilla vinaigrette, local apple salad with house-smoked trout and walnut dressing and grilled hearts of palm with serrano ham and toasted paprika. The Dinner Menu features butter poached lobster with chive gnocchi and a garlic broth, house smoked Berkshire pork with sweet potato hash and scallion BBQ and shrimp ravioli with fragrant chili oil. Lunch items include a skirt steak sandwich with caramelized onions and bleu cheese fondue; seared tuna with local greens, grilled shiitake and candied mustard; and shrimp and grits with toasted ancho chili, garlic and lime. Livingston Restaurant and Bar is located across from The Fox Theatre in the Georgian Terrace Hotel at 659 Peachtree St. NE.  For reservations, call 404.897.1991 or visit www.livingstonatlanta.com...  Aqua Blue on Holcomb Bridge in Roswell has rolled out a new Winter menu as well featuring such starters as salmon & tuna tartar ($10), Main lobster risotto ($14), crispy shrimp spring rolls ($12) and a jumbo lump crab cake ($15).  Two salads are featured, including a tomato & mozzarella tart ($9) as well as a butter lettuce wedge ($8).  Main plates added include grilled beef tenderloin ($25), wild shrimp & scallop grits ($24), seared ahi tuna ($19), crispy trout meuniere ($18), lollipop lamb chop ($28) and mahi mahi ($23). Sushi selections now include a vegetable tempura roll ($8), seared salmon ($10) and a fiesta roll ($11).  Aqua blue is located at 1564 Holcomb Bridge Road in Roswell; 770.643.8886. Visit www.aquablueatl.com for details... Marlow’s Tavern’s seven Metro locations are offering their popular ‘Lobsters & Libations’ menu through December 31st.  The neighborhood eatery has revamped the menu with such dishes as Maine lobster and shrimp tavern chowder  ($6); Asiago lobster and crab dip  ($12); Maine lobster pot pie  ($15); over-stuffed cold water lobster tail stuffed with shrimp, scallops, mascarpone, sweet herbs, grilled pita, Nora Mills stone-ground jalapeño corn grits and jumbo asparagus served with citrus herb sauce ($24); Maine tail and turf of filet mignon, tempura lobster tail and shrimp tail with béarnaise sauce ($25); and finally, Napa Valley cheesecake with chocolate butter cake, chocolate mousse, a layer of Marlow’s classic cheesecake and chocolate ganache ($6).  Visit www.marlowstavern.com for addresses and phone numbers.

Traveling with Kevin...

Food enthusiasts hungry for a new travel adventure have the opportunity to experience a taste of Austria.  Chef Kevin Gillespie, owner/chef at Woodfire Grill on Cheshire Bridge will explore culinary Vienna, its neighboring wine regions and Budapest from March 24 to March 31, 2011.  Travelers will have an array of dining experiences from Michelin-starred establishments to Vienna’s most authentic and traditional restaurants.   The trip also includes a hands-on cooking class in the Schoenbrunn Palace, visits to private wineries and a full day in Budapest. “I have always been impressed with Austrian wines and want to share what I think is one of the world’s most brilliant wine regions.  There is so much to see and experience – from the tradition of the Heuriger to the authentic coffee house culture to the traditional culinary artisans.”  For more info, call 404.347.9055 or visit www.woodfiregrill.com.

November 2010 Issue

Visit us online for our latest printed issue: http://www.thehudspethreport.com/nov.10.album

TASTES, TRENDS & FLAVORS

'Battle of the Burgers,' Best New Restaurants & People's Platelist

The first ever ‘Battle of the Burgers’ inaugural event took place in Atlanta in October at John Howell Park in the Virginia-Highland area.  Showcasing this latest trend, paticipating restaurants included American Roadhouse, Atkins Park, Cafe di Sol, Cypress Street Pint & Plate, Diesel Filling Station, Farm Burger, Einstein’s, Grindhouse Killer Burgers, Highland Tap, Kaleidoscope Bistro & Pub, Manuel’s Tavern, Murphy’s, The Nook, Tap Gastro Pub, Ted’s Montana Grill, Warren City Club and West Egg Cafe.  The winners of the day for Judges’ choice ‘Best Burger’ included Kaleidoscope Bistro & Pub (Kaleidoscope Bistro and Pub, owned by Chef Joe Riley of Buckhead Diner is set to open this fall on Dresden Drive) and Grindhouse Killer Burgers for a meatless version. The Peoples’ Choice ‘Best Burger’ went to The Nook on Piedmont Park and Atkins Park Tavern for its meatless creation...  More accolades for Miller Union, Westside Atlanta’s celebrated Southern-inspired restaurant, has been honored as one of the ‘Best New Restaurants of 2010’ by Esquire magazine in the November issue along with Buckhead Life Restaurant Group’s newest eatery, Bistro Niko.  Food critic John Mariani, praises Miller Union’s Executive Chef Steven Satterfield’s respect for his ingredients, Mariani puts the spotlight on Miller Union’s signature farm egg baked in celery cream, describing “its richness and its sensual textures” as “beautifully realized.” Expanding on the restaurant’s design, shared dining and “straightforward” menu, Mariani says the elements “coalesce the way biscuit ingredients meld into something wholesome and happy-making.” Mariani’s view of Bistro Niko has him commenting, “Maybe it was inevitable that Pano Karatassos would take a crack at a genre that has never fared well in the city: a French bistro of the kind you find on Montparnasse but not so easily south of the Mason-Dixon. Any skeptic who questions whether the south — which of late has come into its own as a cradle of intensely personal, adventurous cooking with indigenous ingredients — is ready for a serious French bistro should try to get a table on short notice at Niko. Executive Chef Gary Donlick hews to the revered traditions of cuisine bourgeois, and Karatassos has imbued the dining rooms with southern hospitality. Walls glisten with white tile, charcuterie hangs in the open kitchen, and you can see the requisite shiny zinc bar from the street. The menu is a broadsheet of dishes that never have and never will go out of fashion, from hot cheesy gougères puffs to escargots en croûte with garlic butter and a touch of Pernod, from the flaky, gooey tarte flambée with onion, crisp bacon lardons, and fromage blanc to boeuf bourguignon made with Kobe beef cheeks braised in rich burgundy wine. Due respect to Karatassos’s other joints, but he really should’ve opened this one first.”  The Esquire honor comes just in time for Bistro Niko’s one year Anniversary.  Birthday celebration deals run Friday, November 5, through Saturday, November 13, offering a free basket of tasty Gruyeres Cheese Puffs at every table, $5 glasses of Piper Heidsieck Champagne and the 2 oz. or 4 oz. selection of Mock Caviar for half price... In June, ABC’s Nightline launched the People’s Platelist contest -- a search for the best undiscovered chefs in the country. They asked viewers to nominate a beloved local chef for a “Platelist” feature. More than 1,000 viewers wrote in, singing the praises of chefs whose creative and delicious cuisines have dazzled their palettes. Surprisingly, Chef Henry Chandler, owner of Henry’s Louisiana Grill in Acworth, received the most votes from viewers across America to earn the title of People’s Platelist.  “The one thing about food in Louisiana is in good times and bad it pulls people together,” says Chandler, 51. “I love to cook because I love to see my friends, my family and my customers enjoy the food so much.”

Blaisin’...

Local celebrity Chef, Richard Blais (Top Chef, Flip Burger Boutique), recently annouced via Twitter that he’ll be starring on the Science Channel soon in a new cooking show to be called Blaisin’... Another new show debuting soon as well, Georgia Cooks: Secret Family Recipes, will air on Georgia Public Broadcasting in December, naming celebrity Chef Marvin Woods as host. Woods is best known for another popular show, Home Plate.  “I am excited to host Georgia Cooks and share my passion for helping people eat and live better through food,” says Woods. “In traveling the country, I’ve cooked and tasted a lot of favorite family foods. I’m eager to see what secret family recipes come from Georgia kitchens and bring them to the show.”  For more about the show, visit www.gpb.org/georgiacooks... Chef Jamie Adams of Veni Vidi Vici in Midtown and CEO and Founder of Buckhead Life Restaurant Group, Pano Karatassos, appeared recently on the Food Network’s ‘The Best Thing I Ever Ate.’ Sunny Anderson, star of Network’s show ‘Cooking for Real,’ named Chef Jamie’s Agnolotti dish the best thing she has ever eaten ‘Under Wraps,’ the theme of the episode. Chicken, duck and pork straight off the rotisserie are blended with fontina cheese, wrapped in fresh ravioli pasta and accompanied with a savory brown butter sauce with sage and pecans make up the Agnolotti. Check out Veni Vidi Vici’s Facebook page for the video.

Updates...

Spice Market, located inside the W Atlanta-Midtown, is offering guests a tasting menu of Executive Chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten’s signature items.  The menu contains five courses with two different ‘tastes’ per course for $48 per person.  Examples from the most recent tasting menu include avocado and radish with Chinese mustard and tempura onions; chili rubbed beef skewer with Thai basil dipping sauce; wok fried asparagus with lotus root and lily bulb; char-grilled chicken with kumquat-lemongrass dressing and Ovaltine Kulfi with caramelized banana and spiced milk chocolate sauce.  For more information, visit www.spicemarketatlanta.com... Every Sunday at Davio’s Northern Italian Steakhouse, a new restaurant located in Phipps Plaza, kids eat free from the restaurant’s children’s menu.  Examples of dishes include a selection of pastas with tomato sauce, meat sauce or butter; macaroni and cheese; fish and chips; burgers with a side of fruit; chicken fingers; braised short ribs with creamy mashed potatoes; and sundaes for dessert.  For more information, visit www.davios.com...  Get up-close and personal with MF Sushi Chef Chris Kinjo for an exclusive Omakase dinner. Omakase is a 16 to 20 course dinner made with the most rare and freshest fish flown in from various Japanese markets. Only for eight guests - the dinner is available on the 2nd and 4th friday of each month. $250 per person includes Sake pairings. MF Buckhead also offers a three-course lunch with 15 different options to choose from - all priced under $20 per person Monday - Friday 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. www.mfbuckhead.com for details... The Original El Taco in Virginia Highlands is now open for lunch on weekends. Dishes include all the favorites, plus a few brunch-like twists such as the ‘Mexican Hangover Cure’ - chilaquiles topped with an over easy egg... You can now experience Farm-to-Table at Buckhead Diner on Piedmont Avenue with a new seasonal three-course $29 prix-fixe menu available every night for dinner. The menu features local produce with choices like the Local Pumpkin Bisque made with pumpkin seed oil and toasted pumpkin seeds as well as the Granny Smith apple & crab salad with lightly pickled cucumber and local radish from new Executive Chef, Charles Schwab. 

Happenings...

On Saturday, November 13th from 2 p.m. until 6 p.m., the Harvest Midtown Wine Experience will come to life as a new food & wine event on Peachtree Street as a walking tour that includes stops at three fine dining restaurants in Midtown, Livingston, Baraonda & Straits. Admission includes a glass of wine & small food plate plus a complimentary wine tasting at each participating restaurant along with live entertainment.  Participants will also be able to enjoy a silent auction benefiting the Ayan’s Fund.  Ayan is a 6-year-old boy from Atlanta who was diagnosed with Pediatric brain tumors two years ago whose family has an enormous amount of unpaid medical bills since he was dropped from his health insurance.  Tickets are $40 in advance & $45 at door and are available now at www.harvestmidtown.com... The Castleberry Hill neighborhood will play host to the annual Chili Cookoff on Saturday, November 13th at 2 p.m. on Elliott Street.  The cost is $5 and benefits the local AFD Fire Station #1.  Judging begins at 3 p.m. For details, visit www.castleberryhill.org...  On Saturday, November 13, football fans can cheer on their favorite team at Deadwood Saloon’s college game day ‘dipping’ party.  From noon to 9 p.m., the newly-opened Midtown watering hole and the folks from Maker’s Mark will be giving away 500 signature wax-dipped shot glasses in each fan’s favorite college team colors. In addition to glasses, some of the fans will win specialty wax-dipped pigskins.  For more information, visit www.deadwoodatlanta.com... Tickets are now on sale for the 2010 Decatur Wine Festival, metro Atlanta’s largest outdoor wine festival. Taste more than 350 wines from around the globe, sample fare from Decatur eateries and listen to live music. The annual event is Saturday, November 6 from 1 to 4 p.m. on the Old Courthouse Square in downtown Decatur.  Tickets are $32 and may be purchased in advance only at www.ticketalternative.com. For more info, visit www.decaturartsalliance.org... Andrews Entertainment Complex has teamed up with Souper Jenny to host Fa la la la la Fabulous Ladies Night Out, Buckhead’s first shopping extravaganza on Wednesday, November 10th from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. at 56 East Andrews Drive. The Complex will be turned into a fashionista’s playground with a host of local boutiques, jewelry vendors, spa services, a bar set up on the 8 Traxx porch as well as beer, wine and specialty cocktails. The Souper Jenny Flying Soup Mobile, along with fellow food trucks, will offer ladies a variety of flavorful, wholesome and inexpensive fare... The Buckhead Snuggie Pub Crawl is planned for Saturday, November 20th from 1 p.m. to 9 p.m. Registration begins at 1 p.m. at Gypsy Stag Lounge (down from Red Door Tavern) at 3188 Roswell Road.  Walk to 9 bars in your ‘Snuggie,’ robe, blanket or whatever makes you happy when its cold out. Sample food & drink specials at each stop. The after party is 8 - 10 p.m. at Buckhead Saloon a with costume contest on stage. Participating Bars include Red Door Tavern, Kramer’s, the Pool Hall, 5 Paces Inn, East Andrews, Churchill’s, Tavern 99, Buckhead Saloon and Gypsy Stag Lounge. The cost is $5 Advance, $10 Door.  Visit www.AtlantaBarTours.com for detail.

Traveling with Kevin...

Food enthusiasts hungry for a new travel adventure have the opportunity to experience a taste of Austria.  Chef Kevin Gillespie, owner/chef at Woodfire Grill on Cheshire Bridge will explore culinary Vienna, its neighboring wine regions and Budapest from March 24 through March 31, 2011.  Travelers will have an array of dining experiences from Michelin-starred establishments to Vienna’s most authentic and traditional restaurants.   The trip also includes a hands-on cooking class in the Schoenbrunn Palace, visits to private wineries and a full day in Budapest. “I have always been impressed with Austrian wines and want to share what I think is one of the world’s most brilliant wine regions.  There is so much to see and experience – from the tradition of the Heuriger to the authentic coffee house culture to the traditional culinary artisans.”  For more info, call 404.347.9055 or visit www.woodfiregrill.com.

October 2010 Issue

Visit us online for our latest printed issue:http://www.thehudspethreport.com/oct.10.editorial.html

FALL'S FESTIVALS & FAIRS

Enjoy Fall's festivals, fairs & food before Fall colors fade into winter

Georgia's  mountain regions offer vistas of ever changing scenery, lakes, roaring rivers, music, good food and celebrations. October is the month to journey to north Georgia for the leaf change.  Alot of the region's towns offer festivals celebrating everything from crops, heritage, the gold industry to centuries past.    You will find bluegrass music, hog calling contests, clogging and buck dancing and even a liar's contest.  Artists, crafts, musicians and parades are staples at many of the fairs.  Find your favorite festivals in our list below and enjoy October's many views and celebrations before the days shorten, the weather cools and Fall's colors fade.

•Kangaroo Conservation

Enjoy an outback adventure in the picturesque North Georgia mountains. Kangaroo Conservation Center has the largest collection of kangaroos outside of Australia. Restricted to adults and ages 5 or above. Friday & Saturday only and last tour is Oct. 30th. Dawsonville, GA, 706.265.6100. www.kangaroocenter.com

•78th Annual North Georgia State Fair

Through October 3rd ~ As the largest fair in metro Atlanta, the North Georgia State Fair attracts nearly 300,000 people and features live music, free attractions, shows, farm animals, flower shows, blue ribbon competitions, local square dancers, fair foods, games and rides at one of the largest carnival midways in the United States. A covered arena guarantees free concerts rain or shine.  Jim R. Miller Park, 2245 Callaway Road, SW, Marietta. 770.528.8989, www.northgeorgiastatefair.com

•Atlanta Greek Festival

Through October 3rd ~ Music, dancing, singing, food and wine demonstrations. $3; ages 12 and younger $1. Greek Orthodox Cathedral, 2500 Clairmont Road N.E., Atlanta. 404.633.7358, www.atlgoc.org/festival.htm

•Oktoberfest

Through October 31st, Helen, GA ~ nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains on the Chattahoochee River, is a re-creation of an alpine village complete with cobblestone alleys and old-world towers. Sundays in October free admisson.  www.helenchamber.com

•Enchanted Maize Maze

Through October 31st ~ A cornfield labyrinth of trails. Located at the foot of Lookout Mountain in Georiga. For hours, prices and directions 706.820.2531. There are also hayrides, a kiddie hay maze, a hay pyramid, pumpkin patch & good cookin.’ www.enchantedmaze.com

•Netherworld

Through November 6th ~ 7 p.m. - 11 p.m. at the Georgia Antique & Design Center at 6624 Dawson Blvd., Norcross.  The Travel Channel has called it “the most elaborate haunted house in America” that “makes Hollywood creature features look like Bambi.”  The Today Show says, “Here, goose bumps are guaranteed.  AOL City Guide warns that it  “brings screams, goose bumps, and unthinkable horrors.”  And, for the last few years, Netherworld has been considered one of the Top Haunted Houses in the World.  404.608.2484, www.fearworld.com 

•Uncle Shuck’s Haunted Maze

Through November 22nd ~ Returning attractions will include the large cornfield maze, one haunted maze section (October only), one soybean maze in the Kiddie Corner activity area, hayrides along the Etowah River, bonfire area and the pumpkin patch. A two-acre sunflower field will be added, with the large yellow blooms available for purchase. In addition, an “Amazing Scarecrows” exhibit area and contest will be featured with the pumpkin patch. Dawsonville, 40 minutes from metro Atlanta, two miles West from the North Georgia Premium Outlet Mall on Georgia Hiwy. 53. www.uncleshucks.com

•Leaf Watch 2009

Through early November ~ Autumn’s arrival means multicolored leaves. To help leaf peepers plan their autumn escapes, Georgia’s state parks has launched “Leaf Watch 2010” to track fall color as it moves across the state. Found at www.GeorgiaStateParks.org/leafwatch throughout October and early November, travelers can get updates on fall color and make reservations for the many campsites, cottages and lodge rooms offered at Georgia’s state parks. 1.800.864.7275.

•7th Annual Virginia Highlands ‘Rocktoberfest’

October 1st ~ 5 p.m. - Midnight. Music begins at 6 p.m. The First Big Oktoberfest of the Year! $5 cover. 822 N. Highland Ave., Atlanta - 404.874.7147 (Back Parking Lot & Inside Limerick Junction &  Blind Willie’s), www.usaentertainment.net/vahirock.html 

•Fadoktoberfest 

October 2nd ~ 2 p.m. to close. There are only a couple of times a year Fado takes the party to the streets in Buckhead and the annual Oktoberfest celebration is one of them! So, strap on your fanciest lederhosen and sexist dirndl skirts and head down early. The outdoor street festival starts at 2 p.m.  Day includes a Polka Band, bratwurst eating contest, strongman stein holding competition and live music.  Advance tickets $5.  273 Buckhead Avenue, 404.841.0066, www.fadoirishpub.com/atlanta/fadoktoberfest

•Alpharetta Scarecrow Fest

October 2nd ~ A gathering for the entire community celebrating scarecrows and the spirit of the fall harvest.  Over 50 lively scarecrows created by school children line Hwy 9, downtown hayrides, fall crafts, farmer’s market, live music, food and fun. FREE. For info: 678/297-6000 x-1008 or www.alpharetta.ga.us.

•Hotoberfest Beer Festival

October 2nd ~ 1 p.m. - 8 p.m.  Beer tasting of 110+ craft brews 1 p.m. - 6 p.m. Earth • Beer • Music... on the grounds of the Glenwood Park community. www.hotoberfest.net to win free tickets

•2nd Atlanta BBQ Festival

October 2nd ~ Noon - 8 p.m.  1 day, 10 restaurants, 50 BBQ teams. Blues & bluegrass music and kid’s area. $6 advance/$10 day of and 12-and-under free. Atlantic Station special events area, www.atlantabbqfestival.com

•Crossroads Antiques & Art

October 2nd ~ A tradition since 1969, Crossroads at Crabapple Antique and Art Festival, Mayfield Road in Milton.  An old-fashioned festival with musicians, food & fun under old oak trees surrounded by buildings dating back to the 1800s.  This one-day festival features 50 Antique dealers from 6 states and 50 juried artists as well as children’s activities. 770.448.3860, www.cityofmiltonga.us/

•Rock N’ Ribs Fest

October 2nd ~ 1 - 9 p.m.  On the Square in Downtown Lawrenceville.  Sponsored by 97.1 The River with live music, a kid’s zone, ribs & sandwich plates from area restaurants (McCray’s Tavern, Texas Roadhouse, California Dreaming, Spiced Right BBQ, Oyster Bay & Heavenly Dreams Q) and a beergarten by McCray’s Tavern.  www.rocknribsfest.com/home.html

•Historical Rock Hike

October 2nd  ~  10 a.m. - 1 p.m. Join Tallulah Gorge staff for a hike to see rock formations that were named during the Victorian era. The hike is very strenuous, off the beaten trail. . Bring lots of water and a snack. Space is limited so please call and sign up in advance. $5 parking.706-754-7981. Tallulah Gorge State Park, Hwy. 441, Tallulah Falls. www.gastateparks.org/info/Tallulah

•Indian Summer Festival

October 2nd & 3rd ~ $6 Advance, $8 at the door.  Arts, Crafts, barbeque, hot dogs, hamburgers, cotton candy, a turkey shoot, pony rides and live band with country square dance.  Woody Gap School (Georgia’s smallest public school), GA Highway 60, Suches, GA.  706.838.5378. www.suches.com/festivalinfo.htm

•Norcross Arts Fest

October 2nd & 3rd ~ Art, live entertainment, children’s rides, silent auction & food on the streets of historic downtown Norcross. 678.641.2686, splashfestivals.com

•Appalachian Jam

October 2nd & October 9th ~ 2 PM - 5 PM. Come listen to the sounds and songs of yesteryear. North Georgia’s mountain music singers and pickers will appear on the grounds of the historic Dahlonega Gold Museum. Enjoy acoustic and old-time strings as the sounds of yesterday fill the air - 465 Riley Road, Dahlonega, GA , 706.864.3513. www.dahlonegadda.org

•Sunday In The Park

October 3rd ~ Historic Oakland Foundation is proud to present the 31st annual Sunday in the Park from Noon  – 6 p.m. The Victorian street festival began in 1979 and offers fun, food, and entertainment for all ages. Enjoy delicious food from Six Feet Under, The Varsity, Tin Lizzy’s, Doc Chey’s, Pallookaville and more. There will be a variety of live musical entertainment, an artists market, living history demonstrations, storytellers, Irish dancers and a scavenger hunt.The suggested donation is $5. Admission for children 3 and under is free. Free parking. 248 Oakland Avenue, SE, Atlanta, 404.688.2107, www.oaklandcemetery.com

•Cumming Country Fair and Festival

October 7th - 17th ~ Amusement rides and games, fireworks, a heritage village with a working saw mill, corn mill and more, family shows and concerts included in the admission price. $7; $3 for 5 to 18, under 4 free. Cumming City Fairgrounds, 235 Castleberry Road, Cumming. 770.781.3491, www.cityofcumming.net

•GA National Fair

October 7th - 17th ~ Exhibits, midway rides, games, concerts and nightly fireworks. $8; $7 seniors; free for children 10 and younger. Georgia National Fairgrounds, 401 Larry Walker Pkwy., Perry, GA, 1.800.987.3247, www.georgianationalfair.com

•GA Mountain Fall Fest

October 8th - 16th ~ Country music stars, crafts and exhibits - mountain style.  1311 Music Hall Road (Park Road at U.S. 76), Hiawassee. 706.896.4191, www.georgiamountainfairgrounds.com

•37th Annual Lilburn Daze

October 9th ~ Arts & Crafts Festival with 200 booths, crafters and food concessions. Children’s play area with a big slide, moonwalk, pony rides, clowns, train ride and a rock-climbing wall. 770.982.4808, 76 Main Street, Lilburn.  Free admission & parking. www.cityoflilburn.com

•Oakhurst International Arts and Music Festival

October 9th ~ 10 a.m.- 7 p.m. An artists market with more than 75 artists plus children’s activities & live music. Free admission. Harmony Park, East Lake Drive at Oakview Road. 404.371.9583, oakhurstartsandmusicfestival.com

•41st Sorghum Festival

Weekends October 9th & 10th, 16th & 17th  ~ The culture of the Mountains. Activites include Sorghum Parade, car show, biskit’ eatin’ contest, square dancin’, pole climbin’, log sawin’, rock throwin’, and horseshoes throwin’, 706.745.5789 - Fort Sorghum, in Blairsville.  Free admission, free parking. www.blairsville.com/sorghum.asp

•Prater’s Mill Country Fair

October 9th & 10th ~ A family-friendly jaunt through history, the festival is centered around the old water-powered, still-operating gristmill which was built in the mid-1800s near Dalton, GA. For more information 706.694.MILL (6455).  Admission $5, children under 12 free, free parking. www.pratersmill.org

•39th GA Apple Festival

October 9th & 10th, 16th & 17th ~ North Georgia’s apple harvest with arts and crafts, parade, car show and bushels of apples. $5; children younger than 10 free. Lions Club Fairgrounds, Old Ga. Hwy. 5, Ellijay. (Shuttles available from schools). 706.635.7400, www.georgiaapplefestival.org

•10th Little Five Points Halloween Festival

October 15th & 16th ~ Live local bands, costume contest, parade, children’s activies in Davis Plaza noon - 5 p.m. Hours: 6 p.m. - 10 p.m. Oct. 16; noon-10 p.m. Oct. 17. Free admission. Little Five Points, Atlanta. 404.230.2884. www.l5phalloween.com

•St. Mountain Highland Games

   October 15th & 17th ~ Athletic events, dancing, music, piping and drumming. Food, vendors. Sounds of bagpipes, fiddles and harps. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. $15 Saturday, $13 Sunday, children $4; Stone Mountain Park, U.S. 78 East, Stone Mountain. 770.521.0228, www.smhg.org

•Great Decatur Beer Tasting Festival

October 16th ~ Noon - 5 p.m. $35. 100’s of local & international beers, live music and food, Decatur Square, 404.371.9583, decaturbeerfestival.org

•Fall Hoedown

October 16th ~ 2 - 9 p.m.  Celebrate autumn’s arrival with line, square and round dancing, hayrides and campfire stories. $5 parking. Vogel State Park, Blairsville, GA 706.745.2628. www.gastateparks.org

•34th Harvest Square Fest

October 16th ~ 9 a.m. til 6 p.m.  Many local area artists and craftspeople. Exhibits include painting, pottery, woodwork, metal, jewelry, glass, fabric, floral designs and more. Also, Halloween Happenings and Scarecrows on the Square. Marietta Square, for more info, 770.794.5601.  www.mariettaga.gov

•Gold Rush Days

October 16th & 17th ~ Fall colors peaking and celebrate Dahlonega’s 1828 discovery of gold. Over 300 art and craft exhibitors gather around the Public Square and Historic District in support of this annual event, 706.864.7247. www.dahlonega.org

•Full Moon Suspension Bridge Hike

October 22nd, 6 PM to 8 PM & October 24th, 7:45 PM to 9:45 PM. Join Tallulah Rangers an a moonlit hike down into the gorge. Register in advance. $5 plus $5 parking. Tallulah Gorge State Park - Tallulah Falls, GA 706.754.7981. gastateparks.org

•Sugar Hill Fall Festival

October 23rd ~ Free. 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. Carnival games, rides, petting zoo, face painting, parade at 10 a.m., arts & crafts, live music and more... E.E. Robinson Park, Level Creek Road, Sugar Hilll. 770.831.7413, www.cityofsugarhill.com

•Olde Town Fall Fest

October 23rd ~ 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Arts and crafts, continuous entertainment. Food. Free. Olde Town, Main and Commercial streets, Conyers. 770.602.2606, www.conyersga.com

•Candler Park Fall Fest

Octobert 23rd & 24th ~ 101th Anniversary: Francine Reed and League of Decency highlight the musical lineup of 15 acts at Atlanta’s most hospitable fall festival. Also: kids actvities, food, beer, and more than 90 artists will be featured at this year’s event — which also happens to be the 101th anniversary of this quirky intown neighborhood. www.candlerpark.org/fallfest

•43rd Annual Mountain Moonshine Festival

October 23rd & 24th ~ Visit an old Moonshine still; listen to stories from the “Tripper’s” and Revenuer’s.  Friday night cruise-in.  Sat: parade, crafts, food, entertainment, and bicycle tour 706.216.5273 - Toll Free: 877.280.8147, Dawsonville, www.dawson.org

•Fall Jonquil Festival

October 23rd & 24th ~ 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Vendors from across the Southeast offer arts and crafts. Food. Children’s activities include pony rides, inflatables, sand art. Free Admission. Village Green, 2800 King St., Smyrna. 770.423.1330. www.ci.smyrna.ga.us

•Taste Of Atlanta

October 23rd & 24th ~ An outdoor food festival held throughout the streets of Tech Square in Midtown. The event features more than 70 of the city’s best restaurants, live cooking demonstrations from national and local celebrity chefs, wine experience, live performances and more. For more info visit www.tasteofatlanta.com

•Halloween Hikes

October 23rd, 29th & 30th ~ Fundraiser 7 - 10 p.m., half mile of lighted trails with nature-theme characters.  Gather around a campfire, face painting, crafts. $8 per person. Chattahoochee Nature Center.  770.992.2055 ext. 236, www.chattnaturecenter.com

•Goblins in the Garden

          October 24th ~ 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. Young goblins are invited to wear their favorite spooky costume for Halloween treats and fun. This is the culminating event of the month-long Scarecrows in the Garden. Pony rides $4, Ride-On-Train $2 (adults ride free with child under 3). Atlanta Botanical Garden, 1345 Piedmont Ave. N.E., Atlanta. 404.876.5859, www.atlantabotanicalgarden.org

•Chastain Park Arts Fest

November 6th & 7th ~ This is the second year for this event on Chastain’s north end.  Over 100 artisans, free admission. www.chastainparkartsfestival.com

TRENDS, TASTES & FLAVORS

Former Buckhead Life alum crowned Season 7 'Top Chef'

Congratulations to the Season 7 ‘Top Chef,’ Kevin Sbraga, a Buckhead Life Restaurant Group Alum. The anticipated season finale of Bravo’s Top Chef: DC had Buckhead Life Restaurant Group cheering for their former Chef de Cuisine. Since the season finale was taped in Singapore in late July, Kevin had to keep the big win from his family and friends. When asked, by Entertainment Weekly, about the difficulty of keeping such a juicy secret he said, “It’s very hard. You start to have a regular conversation, you almost bring up something that you’re not supposed to.” Before making his television debut, Kevin was the Chef de Cuisine at Pano’s and Paul’s  under Gary Donlick who is now Executive Chef at Bistro Niko. With the hopes of opening his own restaurant in Philadelphia, Buckhead Life wishes Kevin the best of luck and a hearfelt congratulations...  Another duo making a TV win are from the Old Fourth Ward’s Highland Bakery’s.  Joshua John Russell and assistant Karen Portaleo won the Food Network Challenge recently with their version of a cake based on Disney’s ‘Beauty and the Beast.’ After the win, they were presented with a $10,000 check and Portaleo will be competing again on another challenge that is set to air on October 31st...  Creative Loafing has announced their ‘Best of Atlanta 2010’ list and had this to say about the process: “This year, rather than trot out the same old favorites, we took a different approach. Our food and drink team asked, ‘What about this year made us excited, proud, hungry?’ We also changed our direction when it came to the huge decision of who would win Best Overall Restaurant. In years past, the honor has been bestowed on the restaurant with the highest ratings, the most formal service, and the most refined food. This year, all that was thrown out the window. Instead, we opted for the place we most want to eat. Crazy, huh?”  The Loafing picked Holeman & Finch Public House on Peachtree Road in Buckhead as this year’s ‘Best Overall Restaurant.’  The gastro-pub is known for it’s ‘Burger Time’ tradition, when at 9:30 every night only 24 gourmet burgers are made and often sell out in under a minute. The publication’s readers decided Kevin Rathbun Steak on Krog Street in Inman Park should have the honor and chose Woodfire Grill on Cheshire Bridge as runner-up.  Antico Pizza Napolentana on Hemphill Avenue in Atlanta received the staff’s vote for two categories, ‘Best New Restaurant’ and ‘Best Pizza,’  while the readers thought Miller Union on Brady Avenue on Atlanta’s Westside deserved the spot and elected Farm Burger on W. Ponce de Leon in Decatur as runner-up.... Men’s Magazine GQ also recognized Holeman & Finch in its October issue ranking them 10th in the nation for ‘Best Places to have a Cocktail.’ To compile the list of top 25, GQ traveled more than 30,000 miles, visited twenty-one cities, 102 bars and drank more than 400 cocktails...  The Atlanta Business Chronicle also reported Antico Pizza Napolentana was named ‘Best Pizza in the United States’ for 2010 by the Festa Della Pizza in Naples, Italy. The Chronicle quoted owner Gianvanni Di Palma as saying, “This recognition in Naples for pizza is like winning an Oscar in Hollywood.  We are beyond thrilled.”... Since 1969 guide-source Gayot has been telling folks where to visit, stay and eat.  It recently released its list of ‘Top 10 First Date Bars in the US’ and Atlanta’s Livingston bar on Peachtree made the cut. Here’s what Gayot had to say: ‘Livingston’s bar area has upholstered seating in small groups, as well as access to a street-side terrace, providing several intimate seating options. A low noise level makes it easy to hold a conversation and seating arrangements are fairly isolated, enabling some conversational privacy. The high-ceilinged Georgian Terrace Hotel bar features a chandelier. The bar menu, besides inventive cocktails, offers small plates, and the respectable wine list has many good choices that go with the food. Daters can segue into the restaurant which features a Contemporary American menu, or Café Mims for more casual fare over coffee and tea. Its location across the street from the Fox Theatre makes it easy to take in a show before or after drinks.’

Celebrating...

Bocado, on Atlanta’s Westside, is celebrating its one-year anniversary on Wednesday, Oct. 6th from 5:30 - 8 p.m. Owner Brian Lewis will be throwing the Anniversary party on the porch featuring Svedka, signature complimentary appetizers, a cash bar and small bites previewing the fall menu. Bocado has enjoyed acknowledgements in its first year, including one of the ‘top 10 restaurants of the year’ from Atlanta Magazine, three stars and a mention for Chef Todd Ginsberg as ‘5 Chefs to Watch For’ from the Atlanta Journal-Constitution and ‘Best New Chef’ from The Atlantan. Signature items include the Bocado burger, deviled eggs and a ‘BLT’ featuring blackened tuna.  Bocado is located at 887 Howell Mill Road, Atlanta. For more information, visit www.bocadoatlanta.com or call 404.815.1399...  On Saturday, October 16th, Kevin Rathbun’s Krog Bar in Inman Park will celebrate its 5th Birthday with a ‘Pig & Paella Party.’  The celebration begins at 6 p.m. and continues until 11 p.m. Cost is $15 per person inclusive of tax and gratuity. The price includes one glass of wine, paella and pig. Additional wine can be purchased separately. Krog Bar is located at 112 Krog Street in Inman Park.  For tickets visit http://krogbar.com... Toulouse on Peachtree in Atlanta is celebrating its 16th anniversary October 1st throught 10th with $16 entrées and $16 bottles of wines.  Approximately 60 wines, normally priced at $50 or less, will be available during the 10-day celebration.  Having a fall birthday, Toulouse is also focusing on reds from the vine with a ‘Fall Reds’ wine tasting on Sunday, October 3rd.  Sample 15 wines and nibble on light appetizers in between.  Tasting begins at 6:30 p.m. and costs $30 per person.  Be sure there’s a seat for you by calling 404-351-9533... Grant Park’s Agave Restaurant is also celebrating this month with 10th Anniversary specials.  Beginning Monday, October 4th through Wednesday the 6th, you can enjoy any entree on Agave’s menu for only $10.  Reservations are recommended since the expect to be very busy.  Call 404.588.0006 or visit www.agaverestaurant.com for more details.

Happenings...

If the extent of your tequila tasting includes a slice of lime and a shake of salt, then you have no idea what you’re missing. Taste the sweetness of agave and the elegant tone of oak barrels as mixologist Mike Cook shows you how to enjoy tequila at Bone Garden Cantina’s tequila tasting Saturday, October 23.   The cost of $30 per person is a chance to try six premium tequilas with proper technique and form while also enjoying a selection of food pairings from the menu. Bone Garden serves fresh-from-scratch, authentic Mexican cuisine and is located at The Lumber Yard at 1425 Ellsworth Industrial Blvd., NW, Atlanta. Visit www.bonegardencantina.com or call 404.418.9072 for details... Join ROOM at Twelve, located on W. Peachtree Street, every Friday and Saturday for Prime Rib Night. Enjoy roasted prime rib of beef au jus with horseradish cream, yorkshire pudding and mashed potatoes for $19.95. Add a bottomless glass of featured red or white wine for an additional $10.  For reservations, call 404.418.1250... Highland mainstay Murphy’s is joining the effort to support local charities and raise awareness about hunger in Atlanta by partnering with nearby ceramic shop, Wired & Fired, for the 4th Annual Empty Bowl Project. From Friday, October 1st to Sunday, November 14th, Wired & Fired will invite Atlantans to their Virginia Highlands store, to paint an unfinished soup bowl using colors, stamps and stencils. The bowls will be put on display ‘for sale’ in front of Murphy’s at 997 Virginia Avenue on Wednesday, November 17th from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.  All proceeds from the bowl sales will benefit Project Open Hand. Each guest’s chosen bowl will then be filled with a dish from Murphy’s special Empty Bowl menu and at the end of the meal, all bowls will be washed and returned to the guests as a memento. For more information, visit murphysvh.com or call 404.872.0904...  Located in the 1010 Midtown building, RA Sushi will be celebrating Halloween on Sunday, October 31st with a night of freakish fun featuring spooky holiday decorations, food and drink specials, a complimentary tarot card reader and a costume contest ($100 gift certificate for winner, $50 for second place).  Throughout the evening, rock cover band Mega Collider will be providing musical entertainment.  There will be no cover charge for attendees.  RA Sushi’s Flying Fish Lounge specials will be available from 8 to 11 p.m.  “Potent Potions” include hot sake for $2, Pabst Blue Ribbon for $3, Chang Lager for $4, Uchi Red and White Wine for $5 and Chang Lager with Sake for $6. “Boo Bites” for the evening will include a variety of half-priced sushi and appetizers such as the Viva Las Vegas roll, pork gyoza, lobster spring rolls, grilled short ribs and spicy tuna roll.  For more info call 404.267.0114 or visit www.rasushi.com... The first ever Battle of the Burgers Atlanta is taking place on Saturday, October 2nd for the 100% benefit of Embraced (a non-profit organization who collects gently-used orthopaedic equipment and redistributes them to individuals in need).  The inaugural burger festival and competition will take place in Virginia-Highland featuring burgers, Sweetwater brews, Barefoot Wine and Bubbly, Whynatte milkshakes, photobooths, live music and fun. Eighteen Atlanta restaurants will battle for bragging rights to “Judges’ Choice Best Burger” and “People’s Choice Best Burger.” Participating restaurants are: American Road House, Atkins Park, Cafe di Sol, Cypress Street Pint & Plate, Diesel, Einsteins, Farm Burger, Grindhouse Killer Burgers, Highland Tap, Kaleidoscope Bistro & Pub, Manuel’s Tavern, Murphy’s, The Nook, TAP Gastro Pub, Ted’s Montana Grill, The Warren City Club and West Egg. For tickets, visit www.battleoftheburgers.com... Water and wine come together at the fifth annual Aqua Vino, a food and wine event where guests can “Uncork Your Imagination” and explore the wonders of the ocean at the Georgia Aquarium on Thursday, October 14.  Guests can sample among 200+ wines from around the world and fare from more than 30 of Atlanta’s restaurants, enjoy live music and bid for live and silent auction goodies.  The money you spend supports the Georgia Aquarium’s Veterinary Services through the Correll Center for Aquatic Animal Health.  A VIP Tasting ($225/person) is from 6 - 10 p.m. and includes access to the Grey Goose VIP Lounge and the opportunity to win raffle prizes; the Grand Tasting ($150/person) is from 7 - 10 p.m.  Tickets can be purchased at www.georgiaaquarium.org... Serpas True Food serves up fashion on Saturday, October 9th with the second annual Fashion Plates event benefitting Susan G. Komen for the Cure.  The event will start at 11:30 a.m. and run through 1:30 with endless champagne cocktails and a four-course brunch by Chef Scott Serpas.  The must-have fall & winter fashions will be featured from Mitzi & Romano, Lila, Vitesse eXchange, Princess and Butch and Drea James Design with a special trunk show by elle g.  Tickets are $45 per guest and can be bought by calling The Reynolds Group at 404.888.9348.  Serpas True Food is located at 659 Auburn Avenue, Atlanta, 404.688.0040.  Visit www.serpasrestaurant.com for directions... It’s that time of year again, Taste of Atlanta is a must-eat with more than 80 of the city’s restaurants at your fingertips.  Throughout the weekend October 23rd & 24th, guests will taste numerous dishes, sip robust wines and beers, be entertained by chef demos and enjoy interactive sponsor experiences as well as family-friendly entertainment. The Taste will return to the streets of Midtown at Tech Square.   Patrons who upgrade to one of the limited Taste of Atlanta VIP Experience tickets will receive exclusive access to one Big VIP Wine, Beer and Cocktail Tasting Tent with new features.  There will be live entertainment, educational seminars including the return of Wine vs. Beer, the Barcraft Competition and complimentary tastes from the exclusive restaurant host.  And don’t forget, the VIP Experience includes a gift bag filled with coupons and special treats for the first 500 VIP ticket holders that arrive at the festival each day.  Taste of Atlanta continues to support the Atlanta non-profit community through partnerships with Share our Strength’s Operation Frontline, the Hospitality Education Foundation of Georgia and the Atlanta Community Food Bank.  Tickets can be purchased at www.TasteofAtlanta.com. 

Traveling with Kevin...

Food enthusiasts hungry for a new travel adventure have the opportunity to experience a taste of Austria.  Chef Kevin Gillespie, owner and chef at Woodfire Grill on Cheshire Bridge, and Travel Designer Tammy Zacks of Travel by Design, will explore culinary Vienna, its neighboring wine regions and Budapest from March 24 through March 31, 2011.  Travelers will have an array of dining experiences from Michelin-starred establishments to Vienna’s most authentic and traditional restaurants.   The trip also includes a hands-on cooking class in the Schoenbrunn Palace, visits to private wineries and a full day in Budapest, Hungary. “I think it is a great opportunity for food and wine enthusiasts to experience an insider’s view of Austria,” says Gillespie.  “I have always been impressed with Austrian wines and want to share what I think is one of the world’s most brilliant wine regions.  There is so much to see and experience – from the tradition of the Heuriger to the authentic coffee house culture to the traditional culinary artisans.”  For more information or to make reservations, call 404.347.9055 or visit www.woodfiregrill.com.