February 2012 Issue

February 2012 Issue

TASTES, TRENDS & FLAVORS

Tribute to the Beatles, No Kid

Hungry, Garden & Gun top 50

Chef Ron Eyester is pleased to announce the great honor of his invitation to cook at the world renowned James Beard House on Feb. 16, 2012 in New York City. In true Eyester fashion, the chef and owner of Rosebud and The Family Dog in Atlanta’s Morningside district will create a musically-themed menu celebrating the anniversary of The Beatles’ Feb. 16, 1964 appearance on the Ed Sullivan Show. A couple of the dishes include Magical Mystery Tour (braised mushroom manicotti, slightly pickled leeks, lamb jus and Midnight Moon cheese) and The Ballad of John & Yoko (buttermilk chocolate cake, pistachio puree and High Road Craft White Chocolate Toffee Crunch ice cream).  Chef Eyester’s evening will consist of four passed hors d’oeuvres and a five-course tasting menu with wine pairings. His passed hors d’oeurves will include: I Am The Walrus (scallion baked egg, milk poached haddock and corn flake crostini),  Eleanor Rigby (Carolina rice fritters with dates and curried honey jar),  Penny Lane (‘Fish & Chips’ gaufrette potatoes, onion crème fraiche and white anchovy), and You’ve Got To Hide Your Love Away (spaghetti and Nantucket Cape scallop eggrolls).

Cudos...

Ted’s Montana Grill recently presented Share Our Strength with a gift of nearly $14,000 on behalf of its guests to support efforts to end childhood hunger in America. Last fall during the Dine Out for No Kid Hungry campaign, Ted’s customers could donate $5 to Share Our Strength and receive a $5 gift card for their generosity. Accepting the donation from Ted’s Montana Grill CEO George McKerrow was Sheila Bennett, director of Dine Out for No Kid Hungry. In presenting the gift, McKerrow said, “No child should have to go hungry in this country or any other. Share Our Strength is one of the most powerful forces in combating this issue and we’re honored to support them and help stamp out childhood hunger in America. We encourage every restaurant in America to get on board this important bandwagon.” Visit www.nokidhungry.org today to add your voice to the national movement of people committed to ending childhood hunger in America by 2015.... Garden & Gun magazine recently went on a quest to find the '50 Best Southern Bars' and has added a few Atlanta haunts to the list for their February/March edition: H. Harper Station on Memorial Drive,  Clermont Lounge on Ponce de Leon, Euclid Avenue Yacht Club in Little Five Points, El Bar on Ponce de Leon, Brick Store Pub on E. Court Square in Decatur and Mac McGee on Sycamore Street in Decatur... The Sun Dial Restaurant, Bar & View will celebrate its 35th Anniversary in 2012 with events, promotions and dining specials.  The Sun Dial opened as Atlanta’s only tri-level dining complex in 1977, a year after the opening of The Westin Peachtree Plaza (then called the Peachtree Plaza Hotel), with a revolving upscale restaurant, a rotating cocktail lounge and an observatory View Level featuring a 360-degree panorama of the Atlanta skyline. The year-long 35th Anniversary Celebration will include Facebook photo contests where guests will be able to wax nostalgic about special occasions, engagements, even high school proms. Follow Facebook for all the promotions. To get you in the mood and remind you about (or introduce you to) what else was happening in 1977, a few fun facts: January 20 – Jimmy Carter is sworn in as the 39th President; April 26 – Studio 54 opens in New York City; May 25 – Star Wars debuts at the movies; August 16 – Elvis Presley dies.

Happenings...

The 3rd Annual Buckhead Restaurant Week begins Saturday, February 25 and runs through Sunday, March 4, 2012.  Buckhead Restaurant Week features special three-course, prix fixe dinner menus for $25 or $35 per person at participating restaurants in the Buckhead neighborhood (prices do not include alcohol, tax/gratuity). Visit www.brwatlanta.com for participating restaurants and more details.

•Atlantans can now purchase tickets for the inaugural Atlanta Chef’s Expo, a taste test event set to take place Sunday, February 19, at the Foundry at Puritan Mill. This culinary event will include menu tastings from local chefs, cooking demonstrations, live entertainment and more, benefitting Susan G. Komen for the Cure of Greater Atlanta. General admission tickets are $25 and VIP are $50.  For more info or to purchase tickets, visit www.atlantachefsexpo.com.

•The  Steamhouse Lounge Oysterfest is back for its 25th year and will be held February 25th (10 a.m. - 7 p.m.) & 26th (noon - 6 p.m.). Located at 11th Street & W. Peachtree Street in Midtown, advance tickets (two-day advance $20, Sunday-only $10) are available at www.TicketAlternative.com. Record amounts of fresh roasted oyster buckets ($12), Louisiana seafood, ice cold Budweiser, live music both days and Jagermeister will be served.  A portion of the proceeds will go to Embraced Atlanta. 

•The Annual Mardi Gras Music & Food Fest is set for Saturday, February 18th, 3 p.m. - 2 a.m. (rain or shine, under a heated tent), at Park Tavern in Midtown (500 10th Street, NE).  Enjoy five musical acts; New Orleans favorites of jambalaya, crawfish, muffaletta and beans & rice; hurricane drinks; and a crawfish eating & costume contest at 6:30 p.m.  Tickets are $10 advance/$15 at the gate, www.xorbia.com/e/mardigrasfest/

•The 2nd Annual Beads & Booze Bar Crawl will crawl along on Friday, February 17th (7 p.m. - 2 a.m.) in Virginia Highlands. Come dressed in your best beads and drink like you’re in The Big Easy. Registration begins at Neighbor’s Pub (752 N Highland Avenue) and the event includes six complimentary Mardi Gras-themed drinks/shots and more at six bars (Hand in Hand, Limerick Junction, Dark Horse Tavern, Diesel & Atkins Park). Ticket ($20 advance/$25 at the door) includes admission, hosted drink/shot at each bar, food, drink offerings and a raffle (www.xorbia.com/e/beadsandbooze2/). Schedules of the crawl will be passed out at Registration. Portion of proceeds benefits Small Dog Rescue. 

•RA Sushi on Peachtree Street in Midtown is hosting its monthly Sake and Sushi Social on Tuesday, February 7th. Attendees will be able to roll up their sleeves and learn about sushi rolling and sake pairing basics while treating themselves to a selection of RA Sushi’s sushi, appetizers and sakes. The cost to participate is $35 per person or $60 per couple. To book call 404.267.0114.

•Double Zero Napoletana will continue to host its popular pizza making classes one Monday per month through spring. The Sandy Springs restaurant is now offering two separate seatings for each class – one at 6 p.m. and one at 8 p.m.  Class dates from February through May are as follows: Monday, February 27; Monday, March 19; Monday, April 23; and Monday, May 21. Each class is limited to 15 attendees and the cost is $39 per person (5825 Roswell Road, 404.991.3666). For more information, visit www.doublezeroatl.com.

New deals...

Tavern 99 in Buckhead is adding chef Darrell Rice’s $2 sliders to Team Trivia night every Tuesday.  Choose from beef with soy glaze and President brie, tuna with pickled ginger and wasabi and turkey with curry cranberry sauce.  Order with friends and chef Rice will indulge you with 10 sliders for $18. Tavern 99 is located at 128 East Andrews Drive,404.835.8311.  Find them on the web at www.tavern99.com or follow on Facebook.

•Atkins Park Tavern in Virginia-Highland is offering an alternative to the typical wine Wednesday specials by serving up a new 'Pint and Plate' every Wednesday. Starting at 5:30 p.m. guests can enjoy a chef prepared plate with the perfect pint of craft beer. The pairing will change each week and will be offered until it runs out. Pricing will vary depending on the combination. A sample offering may feature an ahi tuna burger with black sesame, scallions, teriyaki-ginger mayo and arugula served with hand-cut fries and paired with Sweetwater IPA for $14. Atkins Park is located at 794 N. Highland Avenue. For more information, 404.876.7249 or visit www.atkinspark.com.

          •Valenza Restaurant will be offering 'Sunday Family Dinners' in Brookhaven beginning Sunday, February 12th from 5 - 9 p.m.  The cost will be $24 for adults, $9 for children. Valenza is located at 1441 Dresden Drive, Chef Matt Swickerath has created a menu for the entire family including pork fettucine, grilled chicken, pan roasted trout or lamb.  Table shares are salad,  creamy mascarpone polenta, crispy pecorino potatoes and sofrito braised tuscan kale. Desserts are the panna cotta or gelato.  For the kids, they can choose from spaghetti & meatballs, chicken fingers with housemade fries, orecchiette with italian butter and parmesan or fettuccine alfredo. 1441 Dresden Drive, Suite 100, Brookhaven, 404.969.3233, www.valenzarestaurant.com 

•JCT. Kitchen & Bar on Atlanta Westside is bringing back the Bar’s popular combination of burgers and brew. The rooftop bar is offering Southern farmstead fare on a bun along with the choice of one of three beers from Utah-based Uinta Brewing for its 'Burger and Beer' special every Tuesday through Thursday 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. During this time, guests can get Executive chef/owner Ford Fry’s house ground 'Frito Pie' Burger and the choice of either Wyld Extra Pale Ale, Baba Black Lager or Hopnotch IPA for only $10.  1198 Howell Mill Road, Suite 18, 404.355.2252 or visit www.jctkitchen.com.

•With new hours and a revamped menu, Sun In My Belly, in historic Kirkwood has been delivering European inspired fare since 1996. Housed in a classic 1943 red brick hardware store, the eatery is now offering dinner service Tuesday through Sunday 6 to 10 p.m. In addition to the brand new full dinner menu, diners can enjoy their favorite breakfast and lunch items all day and night. Chef Alison Lueker will also continue to serve her popular weekly Supper Club specials that can be purchased a la carte or as a four-course package for $35. The cafe does not sell alcoholic beverages, however guests are welcome to bring their favorite wine or champagne for a $5 corkage fee.  A sample menu might include a first course of cauliflower flan with smoked trout and pumpernickel crouton; Second course of gingered carrot soup; an entree of roasted beef tenderloin with bleu cheese butter, braised bacon laden brussel sprouts and golden mashed potatoes; and a dessert such as a green apple fritter with spicy granola struesel topping and brown sugar cream. 2161 College Avenue, Kirkwood (Decatur), 404.370.1088, www.suninmybelly.com.

•Spice Market restaurant at the W Atlanta-Midtown hotel is offering guests a fortunate finale to their meal. With the purchase of an entrée during lunch or dinner through Wednesday, February 29, diners will receive a fortune cookie that holds one of many special discounts that can be used at the restaurant or the W Atlanta-Midtown hotel.  Guests can even win a free night at the W Atlanta-Midtown (these offers will only be valid on a return visit). Located in the W Atlanta-Midtown at 188 14th Street, for more information, call 404.724.2550 or visit www.spicemarketatlanta.com.

Trend of the month...

Established in January ‘11, the Atlanta-based Uncorked Glass Company handcrafts eco-friendly glassware from recycled wine bottles donated by local restaurants, wineries and consumers throughout Georgia. Founder/curator Daniel Hart creates each piece from 100% post-consumer materials. All of the tumblers go through a polishing process that ‘rounds’ the lip, leaving the finish smooth and brilliant. The ‘dimple’ or ‘punt’ in the bottom of the wine bottle gives each glass its unique character. Additional info can be found by visiting www.uncorkedglasss.com. Hart was recently lauded in Garden & Gun as a recipient of a ‘Made in the South’ award in the Dec. ‘11/Jan. ‘12 issue. www.uncorkedglass.com

JANUARY 2012 ISSUE

January 2012 Issue

TASTES, TRENDS & FLAVORS

Pink Pastry Parlor on OWN,

afternoon tea and empanadas

Oprah Winfrey’s OWN network is airing six half-hour segments called ‘Party at Tiffany’s’ based on Pink Pastry Parlor in Alpharetta.  Owner Tiffany Young’s parlor plans theme parties for tween girls including a salon for makeovers. The show debuted in December... Jenny Levison’s 10-month-old Cafe Jonah and the Magical Attic on Paces Ferry Place in Buckhead has added afternoon tea service every Tuesday - Friday from 2 p.m. - 4 p.m.  $10 gets you unlimited artisan teas and bakery snacks.  Don’t forget, you can also get your psychic reading while you’re there.  And, in support of local charities, Levison has implemented a ‘pay what you want’ structure with part of the bill going to charity.  It applies to breakfast, lunch and coffee items... Alma Cocina, the latest restaurant from Fifth Group Restaurants (South City Kitchen Midtown & Vinings, La Tavola, Ecco, El Taco, Bold American Events and opening soon, Lure), debuted last month in downtown's One Ninety One Peachtree Tower in the former NY-based Italian restaurant, Il Mulino space.  Executive chef Chad Clevenger has created a contemporary Mexican menu infused with Latin America flavors. If you are looking for something a little different, try Clevenger's sweet potato empanadas with horchata ice cream, cranberry compote and spiced pepitas...  According to Creative Loafting, Braves’ second baseman Dan Uggla is playing chef at Urban Flats - in the name of charity. Uggla  has created three custom, whole-wheat flatbreads to be featured on the menu through February 29th: The Ballpark Flat, The Chicken Pot Pie Flat and The Mob Hit. The most popular flatbread will then be featured on the Atlanta location’s menu from March 2012 through February 2013 with 50% of the proceeds benefitting Dan Uggla’s Diamonds in the Rough Foundation... Aqua blue on Holcomb Bridge Road in Roswell is now offering a nightly 'Aqua blue plate' menu that will rotate each week. The menus feature three courses (appetizer, entrée and dessert) for $25 per person.  The  blue plate menus feature appetizer choices such as calamari with sweet chili sauce; seared pork dumplings; or a handmade sushi roll. Entrée options include hardwood grilled NY strip with roast sweet potato and asparagus; thyme crusted grilled pork loin tostada with black bean and sweet corn relish; and house-made cioppino with jumbo shrimp, sea scallops, clams and mussels in a rich tomato broth. Dessert selections range from house-made crème brûlée, soaked Ciabatta bread pudding with cinnamon ice cream and chocolate molten cake to house-made seasonal sorbets. Also, sign up for the restaurant’s E-club at www.aquablueatl.com and receive a complimentary 2 lb. lobster for your birthday.

Cudos...

Three Atlanta bars were recently among Food & Wine's '50 Best In America.' Here's what they had to say: Sound Table ~ This restaurant organizes its drink list into categories like 'Bright & Dry' (a grapefruity Paloma) and 'Strong, Rich & Strange' (the Matterhorn: Old Tom gin, bianco vermouth, Chartreuse and pine liqueur in an absinthe-rinsed glass). It transforms into a dance club most nights around 11 p.m. 483 Edgewood Ave. SW, 404.835.2534, thesoundtable.com;  Holeman & Finch Public House ~ From the team behind Restaurant Eugene, this gastropub serves Southern-inspired cocktails such as the Spice Bandit by mixologist Greg Best. 2277 Peachtree Rd., 404.948.1175, holeman-finch.com; and, Leon’s Full Service ~ Not only does this restaurant in a former filling station make its own liqueurs and cocktail syrups, it has bar snacks worth traveling for, like homemade peanut butter with a side of bacon. 131 E. Ponce de Leon Ave., 404.687.0500, leonsfullservice.com... Esquire magazine also recently searched the U. S. for the 'best beer menu' and Woodfire Grill on Cheshire Bridge Road was named among nine others nationwide: Woodfire Grill ~ Atlantans started crowding Kevin Gillespie’s Woodfire Grill long before his 2009 stint on Top Chef, for good reason. His beer list may not be the biggest in the South, but it fits seamlessly with the short seasonal menu. “There is no need to have a multi-page beer list,” says Woodfire bar manager M. Blake Morley. “Too many choices tend to drown out the proper choice.” The keep-it-simple philosophy often takes the form of local gems like Sweetwater 420 Extra Pale Ale and Wild Heaven Ode to Mercy imperial brown ale. Want to impress your table? Order a magnum of Anchor Brewing’s 2011 Our Special Ale, a malty Christmastime tradition that’s a match for the wood-roasted food... Woodfire Grill also made the list of online reservation site, Open Table's '2011 Top 100 Restaurant List.' (Chosen by the diners.) The steak & seafood house, Bones on Piedmont Road in Buckhead, joined Woodfire on the list... And, Southern Living magazine has named Decatur, Georgia among the top 10 'Tastiest Towns in the South.'  Here’s why Decatur ranked in the top 10: Just outside of Atlanta, Decatur is an ever-emerging mecca for young foodies who adore pristine farmers’ market produce (from Love is Love Farm and DeKalb Farmers Market, among others) and worth-the-drive restaurants like Cakes & Ale (in a new, expanded location), Farm Burger (find your dream patty here) and the pretty courtyard and stunning plates at No. 246 restaurant. Decatur is proud but not pretentious–grab a local brew at The Brick Store Pub (best beer selection in the South?) and see for yourself.

Happenings...

•Join Meehan’s Public House this month for their First Annual 'Soup Wars.' Each pub location will feature special soups ranging anywhere from $6 to $9 and can be purchased with a sandwich or salad, as well as on their own. There will be four soups available through January at each pub by chefs, Jordan Wakefield (Downtown), Val Domingo (Sandy Springs) and Branden Holte (Vinings). Vote for your favorite soup and the chef and pub with the most votes wins. Their selected soup will be featured in all of the pubs for the month of February. The offerings include: Downtown ~ Carolina She-Crab Bisque, Tuscan Style Bean Soup, Smoked Berkshire Pork Brunswick Stew. Wild Georgia Shrimp Wonton Soup; Sandy Springs ~ Lemongrass Chicken & Schezuan Five Spice Dumpling, Herb-Roasted Tomato Bisque with Irish Cheese Melt, Ancho Chili-Roasted Corn & Potato Chowder, Lentil Bean Stew; and, Vinings ~ Chef’s French Onion Soup, Tomato Bisque, Guinness Lamb Stew, Smoked Mussel Corn Chowder.  Voting will take place in-house, at the three locations. By voting, the customer will automatically be entered to win a gift card to the Meehan’s pub of their choice. Visit http://101concepts.com for more details and directions.

•Atkins Park Tavern in Smyrna is gearing up for the New Year by taking guests back to 1985 for some Nintendo nostalgia. The restaurant is hosting a new type of game night with old favorites from the classic Nintendo video game system lasting through Tuesday, January 31. Currently, Atkins Park is offering Dig Dug, Football, Mario Kart, Mike Tyson’s Punch-Out and more. House cash prizes will be given out each week to the winners and a bigger prize will be available for the overall winner at the end of game night series. Atkins Park Tavern in Smyrna is located at 2840 Atlanta Road SE. For more information, call 770.435.1887 or visit www.atkinspark.com.

•Beginning Saturday, January 14 through Sunday, January 22, diners can enjoy Roswell’s finest fare at exceptional prices during the Inaugural Historic Roswell Restaurant Week. The historic neighborhood is home to several dining destinations and the nine-day promotion will showcase the cuisine of the neighborhood’s best restaurants as they each offer a three-course, prix-fixe menu consisting of an appetizer, entrée and a dessert for $15 or $25 per person (excluding alcohol, tax and gratuity). As of our print date, confirmed participating restaurants included: Fickle Pickle, The Roswell Tap, Table & Main, Ceviche, Roux, Nine Street Kitchen, Sugo, Salt Factory, INC. Street Food, Diesel Pizza, Party Chic, Zest and Oak Street Café. For more information, visit http://www.roswellrestaurantweek.com/.

•RA Sushi on Peachtree Street in Midtown is hosting its monthly Sake and Sushi Social on Tuesday, January 10th. Attendees will be able to roll up their sleeves and learn about sushi rolling and sake pairing basics while treating themselves to a selection of RA Sushi’s sushi, appetizers and sakes. The cost to participate is $35 per person or $60 per couple. To book call 404.267.0114.  RA Sushi has also created three new low-calorie 'skinny cocktails' for all the New Year's resolutions out there. Slenderized to feature less than 200 calories each, the Lychee-teenie, Skinny Ninja and Thin Ginger are full of flavor. Priced at $8 each, the skinny cocktails will be available through February 29th.  Visit RA in Midtown or mix one at home.

Lychee-teenie

•1.5 oz. Voli Lemon Vodka

•1 oz. lychee juice

•.5 oz. Monin Agave Nectar

•.25 oz. lemon juice

•1 lychee for garnish

In a shaker, combine first four ingredients with ice. Shake and strain into chilled cocktail glass. Garnish with a lychee.

•••

Skinny Ninja

•1.5 oz. Voli Lyte Vodka

•1 oz. pink grapefruit juice

•.5 oz. Monin Agave Nectar

•.25 oz. yuzu puree

•.25 oz. lemon juice

•Splash of soda

•Shiso leaf & lemon slice for garnish

In a mixing glass, muddle half of the shiso leaf with agave. Add all ingredients except soda and shake with ice. Strain into ice filled glass, top with soda and garnish with remaining shiso leaf and lemon.

•••

Thin Ginger

•1.5 oz. Voli Lemon Vodka

•.5 oz. Monin Agave Nectar

•.25 oz. yuzu puree

•.25 oz. lemon juice

•Splash of soda

•Strawberry

•Fresh ginger root, peeled

•Lemon twist for garnish

In a mixing glass, muddle strawberry and ginger with agave. Add all ingredients except soda and shake with ice. Strain into an ice filled glass, top with soda and garnish with a strawberry and lemon twist.

DECEMBER 2011 ISSUE

December 2011 Issue

TASTES, TRENDS & FLAVORS

'Best of' awards, the holiday

happenings and Toys For Tots

It’s that time of year again when local media outlets present their ‘best of’ the Atlanta dining scene. Cudos to them all... A newcomer to Atlanta in 2011, the online food blog Eater Atlanta, has announced its ‘2011 Eater Awards’ local winners and they include: Restaurant of the Year ~ One Eared Stag; So Hot Right Now ~ No. 246; Chef of the Year ~ Guy Wong (Miso Izakaya); Bartender of the Year ~ David Durnell (Bocado); and Bathroom of the Year ~ Holeman & Finch Public House... The online restaurant reservation company, OpenTable, recently published the ‘Diners’ Choice Awards’ for the top 100 restaurants in the Country and three local eateries made the list: Aria, Canoe and Milton’s Cuisine & Cocktails... Tom Maicon, over at Food & Beer Atlanta,  has picked his ‘Top 25 Beer Destinations’ for the year and the top 10 include: Brick Store Pub, Thinking Man Tavern, The Porter Beer Bar, Leon’s Full Service, Wild Wing Cafe Marietta, 5 Seasons Brewing Company (all three locations),  Twain’s Billiards & Tap and the Wrecking Bar Brewpub.  For the full list, visit www.atlantacuisine.com... Creative Loafing’s longtime columnist of 24 years, Cliff Bostock, has announced his top 10 Atlanta restaurants for 2011. He adds a disclaimer that this is not a ‘best of’ list, just his favorites and that some happen to be near his home in Grant Park: Spoon in East Atlanta, The Shed at Glenwood, Lunacy Black Market, Eclipse de Luna at Miami Circle, Miso Izakaya, Holy Taco, Octane and the Little Tart Bakeshop, Las Palmeras, Stir it Up in Little Five Points and La Pietra Cucina. His other moderately priced favorites are Top Flr, El Señor Taco, El Taco Veloz, Fritti, Chateau de Saigon, Daddy D’z, Pura Vida, the Bakery at Cakes & Ale, Bocado, Super Pan, Sprig, Goin’ Coastal, Fox Brother’s BBQ, Stone Bowl, Peter Chang’s, and, of course, Popeyes. His pricier faves include Miller Union, Empire State South, Sotto Sotto, No. 246, One Eared Stag, Serpas and Cakes & Ale... Atlanta Magazine’s ‘Top 50’ picks are available online (www.atlantamagazine.com) but here’s a recap of their Top 10 favorites:  1. ~ Bacchanalia; 2. ~ Restaurant Eugene; 3. ~ Cakes & Ale; 4. ~ Holeman & Finch Public House; 5. ~ Tomo; 6. ~ Empire State South; 7. ~ Bone’s; 8. ~ Miller Union; 9. ~ Aria; and 10. ~ Sotto Sotto... Food & Wine magazine recently scouted the U. S. for the ‘Best Fried Chicken’ and named two area eateries among 30 others: Mary Mac’s Tea Room ~ “This Atlanta institution, which resembles a country-style kitchen, has been serving fried chicken and yeasty rolls since 1945. In the Southern tradition, the tea is intensely sweet.” And, Greenwood’s in Roswell also made the list ~ “In a 1790 log cabin called Greenwood’s, the decorating theme — Day-Glo Grateful Dead posters on dark pine slats — doesn’t deter diners from standing in line for honey-pepper-dipped fried chicken.”... And, congratulations to Atlanta’s chef Todd Richards (Café at the Ritz-Carlton, Buckhead), who was named ‘one of four new chefs to watch’ in the November issue of Esquire magazine ~ “Following European masters at the Ritz, Richards, an American, shows his own sumptuous style in dishes like foie gras with huckleberry gastrique.”... Also honored recently were Chris Hall, Todd Mussman and Ryan Turner, partners of Local Three Kitchen & Bar, who were named restaurateurs of the year at the annual Georgia Restaurant Association Crystal of Excellence awards held in November.  Other awards that night included Rich Chey, owner of Doc Chey restaurants, who received the Distinguished Service Award; Will Harris of White Oak Pastures who received the Innovator Award; and Ted Turner was presented the Lifetime Achievement Award for Ted’s Montana Grill.

Holiday happenings...

•For the past five years, Atkins Park Tavern in Virginia Highland has pedaled in the Christmas season with an annual 15 to 20-mile Santa Ride. This year’s ride takes place on Wednesday, December 7, setting out from the tavern at 6 p.m. and braking several times en route for holiday cheer.  This is the time for you to haul out the Santa hats and antlers affixed to helmets, elf costumes, jingle bells and wrap lights for the bike. Since it will be dark, add a Rudolph nose. This 2012 Georgia Chain Gang fundraiser benefits the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. Enter yourself or welcome the yuletide riders back around 9 p.m. Atkins Park Tavern is located at 794 North Highland, 404-876-7249.

•On Thursday, December 8, Der Biergarten (located in the Luckie Marietta District Downtown) will host its second Nikolaustag Holiday Celebration complete with adult festivities, music, food and beer specials.  Santa will make an appearance for grown-up reindeer games like beer pong on the patio, hide the pickle - a German tradition - and more.  Guests can enjoy $5 liters of draft beer, complimentary appetizers and a DJ from 5 – 7:30 p.m.     The German restaurant and beer garden has been transformed into a holiday wonderland dripping with miles of garland and lights, nearly 10,000 ornaments, 72 nutcrackers and 26 Christmas trees. 404.521.2728, www.derbiergarten.com.         

•Mark your calendars for December 15th for Food 101’s ‘12 Beers Of Christmas Dinner’ ($55 plus tax & gratuity). Executive chef Justin Keith has created a dinner featuring four courses, each paired with a tasting of three different beers. Courses include an artisan cheese plate with pickled orange cranberry relish and crostini; a blue point oyster crudo with orange coriander mignonette and micro arugula; chestnut soup with fromage blanc and fried sage; a smoked rabbit pot pie; and an updated twist on your grandmother’s fruit cake. Food 101 is located at 4969 Roswell Road in Sandy Springs, 404.497.9700.

•Also on the 15th, celebrate the season at Rosebud, where beloved bar keep Jeff will create three seasonally-inspired cocktails for just $15 from 6 - 9 p.m.. Guests will enjoy the special drinks and a DJ spinning holiday tunes. For more info visit www.rosebudatlanta.com  or call 404.347.9747. Rosebud is located at 1397 N. Highland Ave., Atlanta, GA 30306.

•Have breakfast or dinner with Santa ($20 adults, $10 children) at One.midtown kitchen on Saturday, December 17.  The family-style breakfast includes French toast, snowball donuts, bacon, fresh fruit, hot chocolate and fresh juice. One is located at 559 Dutch Valley Road in Atlanta and reservations are required.  Don’t forget your camera for a photo with Santa, 404.892.4111.

•Meehan’s Public House in Sandy Springs is also celebrating on the 17th with a four-course Celtic Christmas Dinner from 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Each course will be paired with an alcohol from United Distributors. Meehan’s will also be hosting a toy drive for Camp Sunshine. The evening will cost $42 per person including alcohol pairings. A 10% discount will be offered to guests who bring a gift for the Camp.  Meehan’s Public House is located at 227 Sandy Springs Place. For more info visit http://101concepts.com/meehanssandysprings/ or call 404.843.8058.

Trend of the month...

Meehan’s Public House Downtown joins the national fight against prostate cancer by hosting a Mustaches and Mini Skirts party on Friday, December 9, 2011. The event is to celebrate the culmination of the ever-popular ‘No Shave November,’ also called ‘Movember’ trend that has been popping up across the globe (movember.com). In 2010, the American Cancer Society noted that 447,000 Mo Bros, as the participants are called, raised more than $48.6 million dollars. Guys shave your beards and leave your mustaches for this one night and ladies show up in your favorite mini skirt to support the cause. The event starts at 9 p.m. and costs $10 at the door. Meehan’s will offer food and drink specials as well as live music for the evening,  404.214.9821. 200 Peachtree St., Downtown, www.meehansdowntown.com

Toys For Tots...

The mission of the U. S. Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Program is to collect new, unwrapped toys each year, and distribute them as Christmas gifts to needy children in the community. This year finds BLT Steak Atlanta (W. Atlanta-Downtown Hotel on Ivan Allen Jr. Blvd.) participating through December 14th. Guests who visit BLT Steak and donate a new, unwrapped toy will receive a complimentary cocktail or dessert.  You can also receive a free appetizer by bringing in a toy for the collection going on through December 17 at Ray’s on the River, Ray’s Killer Creek and Ray’s in the City. Visit Ray’s online for location information, www.raysrestaurants.com.   Other drop off locations accepting through January 1st include One.midtown kitchen (559 Dutch Valley Road), Two urban licks (820 Ralph McGill Blvd.), TAP (1180 Peachtree Street) and Parish: Foods & Goods (240 N. Highland Avenue).

Gifting...

FIGO Pasta introduces its annual ‘2012 FIGO Pasta Pepper Shaker Calendar’ and a set of coupons valuing nearly $100, available for $9 at all seven FIGO locations through January. A portion of each calendar sold will benefit Wellspring Living. Visit www.figopasta.com for more details... H & F Bottle Shop in South Buckhead on Peachtree Road has an idea for Christmas, a new cocktail kit.  The folks over at H & F have put together a Sazerac kit with everything you need  for your bourbon-lovin’, gin-sippin’, beer-geekin’, wine-collecting’ loved ones. The drink was created at the Sazerac House around 1850, and the recipe has changed many times through the decades due to availability of cognac, absinthe and bitters brands. The kit comes with: Sazerac Rye, Angostura and Peychaud’s Bitters, Herbsaint, a citrus peeler, and two lemons for $75. All cocktail kits come with a complimentary bag of Kold Draft ice cubes. Call 404.841.4070 or visit hfbottleshop.com for more ideas... Chef-owner Anne Quatrano and cheesemonger Tim Gaddis also have an item for the holidays and have launched Cheese & Crackers, A Southern Collective at Atlanta’s gourmet market, Star Provisions. This savory cheese-of-the-month club will offer cheese lovers and novices a selection of three themed Southern cheeses each month. Members can select three ($200), six ($375) or 12-month ($775) memberships during which they will enjoy one to one-and-a-half pounds each of three types of Southern cheeses per month. The 2011-2012 cheese themes include: December 2011 – ‘Southern Blues’ features blue cheeses from around the Southeast; January 2012 – Georgia cheeses; February 2012 – Aged Southern cheeses; March 2012 – North Carolina cheese; April 2012 – Spring picnic cheeses; May 2012 – Tennessee cheeses; June 2012 – Southern goat’s milk cheeses; July 2012 – Alabama cheeses; August 2012 – Southern sheep’s milk cheeses; September 2012 – Kentucky cheeses; and October 2012 – Virginia cheeses. Memberships are available by calling 404.365.0410 ext. 132. The monthly shipment can be picked up at Star Provisions or shipped anywhere in the United States. A $15.95 shipping fee will be added to each shipment.

NOVEMBER 2011 ISSUE

November 2011 Issue

TASTES, TRENDS & FLAVORS

Beer, spirits, wine, 3D sports
and backyard Decatur dining

H & F Bottle Shop in the Peachtree Battle Shopping Center has announced that it is now licensed to sell beer and spirits in addition to wine.  The shop stocks selections of small-batch spirits and hand-crafted beers and is the latest venture from the creative team that brought Restaurant Eugene, Holeman & Finch Public House and H&F Bread Company to Atlanta. Greg Best, partner and lead bartender at Holeman & Finch Public House is largely credited with reviving Atlanta’s classic cocktail scene and bringing finely crafted drinks back into vogue in the city...  When Dantanna’s opened on Around Lenox Drive in Buckhead in 2003, they were on the cutting edge with HD TVs for all the sports fans in the crowd.  Owner David Clapp went on to upgrade to LEDs (as plasmas were catching on) and has now officially gone 3D with four 65-inch sets in the main bar and another in a private dining room.  View all your favorite teams through free paper 3D glasses and partake in Dantanna’s new ‘Sunday Bloody Sunday’ menu while watching the action... Ford Fry and chef/partner Drew Belline’s three-month-old No. 246 on E. Ponce de Leon in Decatur has opened its backyard just in time to enjoy the fall weather with a deck built around a tree, guest seating and an herb garden. The Italian-inspired eatery does not accept reservations for outdoor dining, but guests are welcome to make a reservation for the main dining room. For more information, visit www.no246.com... Richard Blais (Flip Burger Boutique, HD 1), recent Top Chef All-Stars winner and executive chef/partner of Atlanta’s soon to open The Spence, will lead a team of 5 first-time marathoners in the November 6th ING New York City Marathon to raise funds for the Alliance for a Healthier Generation’s fight against childhood obesity. Richard’s team has a combined fundraising goal of more than $50, 000. For more information and to donate, visit crowdrise.com/rblais. For more information on the Alliance for a Healthier Generation, visit healthiergeneration.org... Realizing guests with gluten sensitivities, FIGO Pasta has expanded their gluten-free menu with a classic beef meatball named ‘Gluten Free Maria’ - a variation of their popular Nonna Maria meatball. Made with rice flour and rice rather than bread, it also includes a combination of ground beef sirloin, carrots, onions, celery, potatoes, parmesan cheese and herbs & spices. Visit FIGO at one of its seven Atlanta-area locations or online at www.figopasta.com.

Cudos...

Inman Park’s Kevin Rathbun’s Steak staffer, Joon Lim, has been named Atlanta’s Best Sommelier in the recent Taste of Atlanta’s first-ever competition.  Joon, who won the event by answering the question, “Name the nine sub regions in Vinho Verde, Portugal,” answered by giving not one, but all nine sub regions.  31-year-old Joon is a Certified Wine Specialist via the Society of Wine Educators and a member of the Guild of Sommeliers... 99% of all olive oil used in the United States is from other countries.  But that may be about to change. Owner Jason Shaw’s Georgia-based Georgia Olive Farms has just had its first commerical harvest (the first on the East Coast since the 1800s). The Shaw Orchard, near Lakeland, Georgia, consists of 96% arbequina olive trees as well as two other varieties: Arbosana and Koroneiki. It is the goal of Georgia Olive Farms to produce high quality extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) in the South thereby giving Southern farmers a viable fall cash crop... Chef Michael Bologna, owner of Vingenzo Restaurant in Woodstock, has accepted an invitation by the James Beard Foundation in New York City to participate in a one-time only event at the renowned James Beard House. Bologna will prepare a banquet-style dinner for upwards of 80 guests at a special affair set to take place, Thursday, December 1st, 2011. All the proceeds of this dinner will go directly to the not-for-profit James Beard Foundation... Zagat, the restaurant guidebook publisher, recently unveiled its findings from ‘The Country’s Top Restaurants’ survey.  Among the rankings, the ‘Top Five’ Atlanta eateries were 1. Bacchanalia; 2. Quinones Room; 3. Aria; 4. McKendrick’s; and 5. Bone’s.

Music, brew & food...

Starting on November 6, The Family Dog on N. Highland avenue will kick off Sunday Jazz, a series of free live music evenings featuring local group The Trio with a different guest artist every week, from 7 - 10 p.m. Each evening will include three sets of live jazz music, two sets from The Trio and featured guest artist with a third set from a select local upcoming jazz musician. Admission is free and full food and beverage menus are available. Visit www.facebook.com/familydogatlanta for the full lineup and details.

•Canoe restaurant on the banks of the Chattahoochee River in Vinings has launched another Song of the South live music series at the outdoor river bar. The restaurant will feature live local artists every Wednesday evening from 7  to 10 p.m. Guests can relax in comfortable chairs lining the riverside, gather around the River Bar, enjoy a meal or libation and listen to local artists. Chef Carvel Grant Gould’s menu features fresh, seasonal dishes, and of course, the bar will serve a variety of local beers, signature river cocktails and wines by the glass. Additionally, the River Bar is open nightly Wednesday through Saturday, weather permitting.

•The 3rd Annual Woodstock Art & Wine Festival on Saturday and Sunday, November 5-6, 2011 will offer something for the whole family.  Held in Woodstock City Park on Main Street, this free admission two-day outdoor festival will feature fine art, interactive children’s activities, entertainment, wine tastings and great food 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. For more information, please visit www.woodstockartandwinefestival.com.

•The 10th annual Decatur Wine Festival is set for Saturday, November 5th from 1 p.m. - 4 p.m.  Taste over 500 wines from around the globe and sample fare from Decatur eateries along with live music on the community bandstand. For additional info or to buy tickets, visit decaturwinefestival.org

Happenings...

•Through November 7th, Aqua blue restaurant in Roswell is honoring the other white meat with ‘Chop Month’  by featuring a menu dedicated to the versatile cut of pork along with its à la carte sushi menus.  A sampling of the offerings include a St. Louis-style Hoisin rib chop with jicama and apple slaw ($12).  Entrée features include Caribbean spiced pork chop with Maker’s Mark glaze, black currants and pineapple ($26); and an Australian lamb chop with pistachio, horseradish crust, Madeira demi and mint ($30).  All entrées are served with a loaded crispy potato cake, sautéed spinach and jumbo asparagus. Aqua blue is located at 1564 Holcomb Bridge Road; 770.643.8886.

•On Thursday, November 3rd at 7:30 p.m., BLT Steak chef Cyrille Holota will host the second Boucherie Dinner in a new series of five course, educational dinners featuring whole animal cookery.  With beef as the focus of November’s menu, Holota will craft dishes such as beef tartare (poached quail egg, pomme gaufrettes, micro watercress) and poached beef tenderloin (beef consomme, turnips, salsify, rutabaga, baby carrots with horseradish cream). The dinner and wine pairing costs $85 per person, not including tax and gratuity. Guests can make a reservation by calling 404.577.7601.

 •Food 101 on Roswell Road in Sandy Springs is launching a new way to add some fun into the busy work week with ‘Wine Down Wednesdays.’ Each Wednesday Food 101 will be featuring new wines along with an array of food that complements them.  Each wine will be available for $7/ 6 oz. glass or $10 for a flight of 3 oz. pours.  Visit their website, www.food101atlanta.com, for more info.

Birthday celebration...

5 North Turns 5 on the 5th.  5 Seasons Brewing on Old Milton Parkway in Alpharetta will be celebrating its anniversary on Saturday, November 5th with $3 beers all day long.  Chef Dave will also have $5 dishes commemorating the occasion. Call 770.521.5551 or visit www.5seasonsbrewing.com for details.

Thanksgiving...

•Don’t feel like cookin? Chef Joe Schafer of Parish: Foods & Goods on N. Highland in Inman Park will combine fresh ingredients harvested by local farmers to create a Thanksgiving ‘To Go’ menu.  Place your order by Sunday, November 20 at 5 p.m. and pick up by Wednesday, November 23rd after 12 p.m. (404.681.4434). Check out www.parishatl.com for menu... Milton’s Cuisine on Mayfield Road in Milton is presenting Chef Boyd’s ‘Twist on Thanksgiving Chef Demo’ on Wednesday, November 9th at 6:30 p.m. The demo features Boyd’s twist on traditional Thanksgiving dishes and includes a glass of wine and a three course meal for $35 per person. Seating is limited. Call for your reservation, 678.431.8753... For the ninth year in a row, 103 West on W. Paces Ferry Road in Buckhead opens its doors to welcome your family for a traditional Thanksgiving feast. The meal, complete with all the trimmings is served family-style to groups of 4 or more.  103 also offers the grande dessert display, prepared by Pastry Chef Joseph, featuring more than eleven desserts and pastries from pumpkin pie to chocolate pecan tarts and creme brulee.  At the conclusion of the meal, the staff refreshes the turkey & trimmings and packages it with leftover ideas to enjoy later. Seatings are available from Noon to 7 p.m. $69 per person for Adults, $35 for Children 12 years & under and Free for 6 years & under.  Tax and gratuity not included. Reservations can be made at www.buckheadrestaurants.com or by calling 404.233.5993... Back by popular demand this year is Rosebud’s legendary Thanksgiving dinner. On Thursday, November 24, Ron ‘the Angry Chef’ Eyester will offer a holiday meal for the whole family at his N. Highland Avenue eatery. Seatings are available between 11 a.m. - 7 p.m. Cost is $42 per person, plus tax and gratuity; children ages 5 through 12 cost $20 and under the age of 5 are free. A $25 ‘Holiday Orphan’ plate will be offered for solo diners eating at the bar. Reservations are required and can be made by calling 404.347.9747. For those looking to continue the celebration, The Family Dog, across the street, will open at 4 p.m. serving beverages and food until 1 a.m... Meehan’s Public House in Vinings is celebrating all day with a ‘Turkey Tailgate Holiday’ of drink specials and non-traditional Thanksgiving fare.  Call 770.433.1920 or visit 101concepts.com for details.

OCTOBER 2011 ISSUE

October 2011 Issue

TASTES, TRENDS & FLAVORS

'Best Late Night Finds' and '50 

Fit For Foodies' list local eateries

San Francisco-based OpenTable, the online restaurant reservation system, has compiled a ‘Best Late Night Finds of 2011’ list as part of the annual Diners’ Choice awards.  The service polled nearly 10 million of its users to create the list of the country’s 50 best restaurants for after-hours eats.  Those making the list in Atlanta include Cafe Circa on Edgewood Avenue, Hobnob Neighborhood Tavern on Piedmont Avenue, Loca Luna on Amsterdam Avenue and Shout in Midtown...  On another OpenTable list, ‘50 Restaurants Fit for Foodies,’ Anne Quatrano and Clifford Harrison’s two-year-old  Abattoir restaurant on Howell Mill Road, was the only Atlanta eatery to make the list among other notable restaurants across the country. “We’re very honored to receive this award and to represent Atlanta on this list,” says Josh Hopkins, executive chef and partner of Abattoir. “We’re happy and appreciative of OpenTable and the diners who voted because we, too, are big fans of many of the restaurants on the list, such as Fig, Ad Hoc and Gather.”...  The Eatocracy blog over at CNN recently ran Kate Krader’s (Food & Wine’s restaurant editor) suggestions on finding burgers across the country and Atlanta’s FLIP Burger Boutique made the cut. Here’s what Krader had to say: “Among the less conventional toppings that ‘Top Chef All-Stars’ winner Richard Blais puts on the burgers at his Flip chain in Atlanta and Birmingham: Swiss cheese foam; seared foie gras; Coca-Cola ketchup. (Not all on the same patty.) Then there’s the steak tartare burger, a mix of hand-chopped filet mignon with garlic, chilis, pickled shallot, smoked mayonnaise and a 6-minute egg.”... Wine Spectator magazine has recognized Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar in Dunwoody with its ‘Awards of Excellence.’   “Wine is a huge part of the Fleming’s dining experience, and we strive to make recommending or selecting a wine for dinner easy and fun.  Our progressive lists are organized first by grape varietal, then by flavor intensity within that type.  This gives our guests a road map for making their selections,” says Fleming’s Director of Wine Maeve Pesquera... The next season of Bravo’s ‘Top Chef’ is set to premier in November (this season is set in Texas) and two of Georgia’s chefs will be vying for the title.  Chef Janine Falvo, representing Briza in the Marriott Midtown and chef Whitney Otawka from the Greyfield Inn on Cumberland Island.  Otawka has worked previously at Hugh Acheson’s Five & Ten in Athens and Atlanta’s Restaurant Eugene and Holeman & Finch.  She was also named one of the ‘Atlanta chefs to watch in 2011’ by Besha Rodell of Creative Loafing. Chef/owner Hugh Acheson will also be making an appearance this season on Top Chef -- at the judges table... Executive chef/partner Kevin Gillespie from Woodfire Grill recently lent his voice to a character based on himself on an episode of the Cartoon Network’s Adult Swim show, ‘Squidbillies.’  We gotta hand it to him; it’s a novel way to take an apron break. (Image courtesy of Adult Swim)

Happenings...

With strong drinks, loud music and a continuous party, The Family Dog on N. Highland Avenue offers more than a typical neighborhood bar. Combining passion for food and drink with the love of music, chef Ron Eyester offers guests live music and good times every weekend. On Saturday,  Oct. 1 ~  Charlie Wooton Project; Oct. 2 ~  Mike Geier Trio; Oct. 6 ~ Frankie’s Blue Mission; Oct. 8 ~ Deep Blue Sun; Oct. 13 ~ McNary; Oct. 15 ~ The Barry Richman Band; Oct. 16 ~ The Jacob Deaton Quintet; Oct. 20 ~ Drop; Oct 22 ~ The Amazing Mongooses; Oct. 23 ~ Joe Gransden Trio; Oct. 27 ~ CC Booker III feat. Will Scruggs; Oct. 29 ~ DJ; and Oct. 30 ~ Gwen Hughes Quartet. For more info, visit www.thefamilydogatlanta.com or call 404.249.0180.

•Oktoberfest takes over the Luckie Marietta District this fall as Der Biergarten and STATS team up for the ultimate celebration of Germany’s famed beer festival.  The restaurants will transform into Munich-inspired eateries (both inside and on the patio) with each room offering a different German draft beer and themed with authentic décor.  Live bands will add to the atmosphere and reusable beer boots will be available for purchase.  Guests can bring back their boots for special pricing on refills during the Oktoberfest season continueing every weekend through October 30th. Der Biergarten will also showcase classic German cuisine – including brats, wursts, strudels, pretzels and mustards – and will debut its new rotisserie for fresh, authentic roasted meat. Visit www.derbiergarten.com or www.facebook.com/derbiergarten. 

•The second annual Morningside Mile race and block party benefitting Atlanta’s oldest fire station is scheduled for Sunday, October 16. The race begins at noon in Virginia Highland and ends with a block party at Doc Chey’s in Morningside Village shopping center (1424 N. Highland Avenue). Runners and non-runners alike will enjoy an afternoon of festivities from noon to 3 p.m. including live music, food and family fun provided by Atlanta firefighters and other Morningside Village businesses. For more information, visit www.vhfirecompany.com or www.MorningsideMile.com. 

•For its 10th anniversary, Taste of Atlanta will be featuring city favorites, novel newcomers and global eateries. The street festival welcomes more than 80 of Atlanta’s favorite dining destinations Saturday, October 22 and Sunday, October 23 in Tech Square. With gourmet grub, live cooking demos and more, Taste showcases the Barcraft Competition, the Family Food Zone, the Global Flavors International Stage adn the Home Plate Main Stage where renowned chefs battle it out and go head-to-head. For a complete list of participating restaurants, show schedules and tickets, visit http://tasteofatlanta.com/rests.php.

•The sixth annual Field of Greens festival returns to Whippoorwill Hollow Organic Farm on Sunday, Oct. 2 from 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. Hosted in part by Rosebud and The Family Dog chef Ron Eyester, this popular festival features chef-prepared food grown locally and served in a fun, family-friendly environment. This year’s event includes the always popular festival market, where approximately 60 food artisans, green living organizations, live craft exhibitors and farmers sell their products and demonstrate their artistry. The Kid’s Village combines interactive farm and healthy food activities with the classic bouncy inflatable ride. Local bands will play on the farm stage throughout the day. Proceeds from the festival will once again be donated to Slow Food Atlanta, a nonprofit organization dedicated to building a good, clean and fair food system. In the past, Field of Greens has raised over $12,000. Tickets are $20 in advance or $25 at the gate. Admission includes unlimited tastings from the Chef’s Tent. Admittance is free for children 12 and under. Tickets can be purchased in advance at www.fieldofgreensfestival.com. 

•P’cheen International Bistro & Pub will host a pumpkin carving contest fit for the whole family in the historic Old Fourth Ward on Saturday, October 22nd from 2 to 6 p.m. Arrive early, because pumpkins will be free for the first ten contestants. All pumpkins will be displayed for dinner at P’cheen later that evening. The winner will receive a $100 prize. And, don’t let the crisp autumn air keep you away - hot apple cider will be served during the carving. P’cheen is located at 701-5 Highland Avenue, Atlanta. For more info visit www.pcheen.com or call 404.529.8800.

•Canoe restaurant on the banks of the Chattahoochee River in Vinings has launched another Song of the South live music series at the outdoor river bar. The restaurant will feature live local artists every Wednesday evening from 7  to 10 p.m. Guests can relax in comfortable chairs lining the riverside, gather around the River Bar, enjoy a meal or libation and listen to local artists. Chef Carvel Grant Gould’s menu features fresh, seasonal dishes, and of course, the bar will serve a variety of local beers, signature river cocktails and wines by the glass. Additionally, the River Bar is open nightly Wednesday through Saturday, weather permitting. The Music Schedule includes Wednesday, Oct. 5 ~ Sam Thacker; Wednesday, Oct. 12~ Sydney Eloise; Wednesday, Oct. 19~ Lauren St. Jane; and Wednesday, Oct. 26 ~ Tim Brantley.

Birthday celebrations...

•It has been 11 years since Agave opened its doors on Boulevard in Atlanta’s Cabbagetown area becoming a local favorite.  In celebration of its Anniversary, the New Mexico-Southwestern cuisine  eatery is offering a Tequila Dinner featuring Tequila Revolucion on Tuesday, October 11 at 7 p.m.  Chef/owner Jack Sobel’s menu for the evening ($65 per person plus tax & gratuity) begins with a Tequila Revolucion Silver traditional Margarita served on arrival.  Served for Course 1 will be a grouper taco with a chile avocado dipping sauce; Course 2 ~ A shrimp & poblano soup with cirtus crema & chili dusted crostini; Course 3 ~ Spicy pork tenderloin medallions over a chorizo potato hash and seard maple apples; Course 4 ~ Seared chile rubbed wild bass; and Course 5 ~ Homemade peanut butter mousse pie with spicy pecans over a Belgian chocolate puree. A traditional raffle will take place following the dinner. For reservations, call 404.588.0006.

•On Saturday, October 15th, Krog Bar on Krog Street in Inman Park will celebrate its 6th Birthday Bash with wine, pig & paella.  The celebration begins at 6 p.m. and will continue until 11 p.m.  Cost is $25 per person inclusive of tax and gratuity.  The price includes one glass of wine, paella and pig. Additional wine can be purchased separately. The Bar’s regular menu will also be available. You can purchase tickets online at www.krogbar.com/krog-bar-party.html or call them at 404.524.1618 for details.

•Beginning Tuesday, October 4th through November 7th, Aqua blue restaurant in Roswell is honoring the other white meat with ‘Chop Month’  by featuring a menu dedicated to the versatile cut of pork along with its à la carte sushi menus.  A sampling of the offerings include a St. Louis-style Hoisin rib chop with jicama and apple slaw ($12).  Entrée features include Caribbean spiced pork chop with Maker’s Mark glaze, black currants and pineapple ($26); and Australian lamb chop with pistachio, horseradish crust, Madeira demi and mint ($30).  All entrées are served with a “loaded” crispy potato cake, sautéed spinach and jumbo asparagus. Aqua blue is located at 1564 Holcomb Bridge Road; 770.643.8886.

SEPTEMBER 2011 ISSUE

September 2001 Issue

TRENDS, TASTES & FLAVORS

'Chef Series' continues, Party in 

the Kitchen, Beer & Whiskey Fest

•The summer ‘Chef Series’ continues at One.Midtown Kitchen as resident Chef Drew Van Leuvan welcomes area chefs for a five-course dinner paired with cocktails, wine or beer. Van Leuvan will prepare the appetizer and dessert portion of the menu while each guest chef will prepare courses two, three and four.  September 4, Joshua Hopkins of Abattoir cooks along side Van Leuvan, followed by Ron Eyeter of Rosebud & The Family Dog on September 28, Cost is $75 per dinner. Visit onemidtownkitchen.com or call 404.892.4111 for reservations.

•The 32nd annual Great Miller Lite Chili Cook-Off will be held in Stone Mountain on Saturday, Septemver 24 from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.  More than 300 culinary teams from across the country battle for chili bragging rights.  In addition to sampling chili, Brunswick stew and cornbread, guests of all ages are invited to enjoy live music from tribute bands and partake in games such as the Mullet Flop. 100% of the proceeds will benefit Camp Twin Lakes (since 2005, the Cook-Off has raised more than $380,000). Tickets are $10 for adults. Children 12 and under are free. Tickets can only be purchased on site the day of the event, and will not sell out.  For more information, visit www.theatlantachilicookoff.com.

•Many of the city’s best chefs are coming together for the 8th annual Party in the Kitchen to benefit Open Hand, on Thursday, September 8, 2011, at 7:30 p.m. Guests are invited to attend, don their favorite white attire and enjoy cuisine from several of Atlanta’s favorite restaurants. The festivities will take place at Mason Murer Fine Art, located adjacent to the site of Open Hand’s future expanded campus.  Guests will also enjoy an evening of music, dancing, cocktails and a silent auction which will offer an assortment of items including travel and entertainment packages, fine dining experiences and high-end retailers.  Guests will also have the opportunity to bid on experiences which includes a private meal prepared for ten people in the winner’s home by host/chef Kevin Rathbun and friends.  Admission to the Main Event is $175 per ticket.  Patron tickets are $750, which includes admission for two to an exclusive Patron Reception at 6:30 p.m. and other special privileges. Tickets may be purchased at OpenHandAtlanta.org.

  •The 7th Annual Beer & Whiskey Fest will be held Labor Day weekend at Park Tavern located in the heart of Midtown overlooking Piedmont Park on Sunday, September 4th from 2 p.m. – 11 p.m.  This annual charity event features a  lineup of beers & whiskies, four rock tribute bands & a DJ along with food while helping raise money for the Atlanta Beltline (a 22-mile loop of historic rail corridor being transformed into a new pedestrian-friendly transit system linking over 1,200 new acres of greenspace and 33 miles of multi-use trail around Atlanta’s downtown core.) The festival will feature a silent auction & whiskey tasting from 5 - 7 p.m. with 100% of proceeds going to the charity along with a portion of proceeds from ticket sales.  Tickets for admission are $10 in advance  $15 at the gate. For more info visit www.beerandwhiskeyfest.com. 

•With strong drinks, loud music and a continuous party, The Family Dog on N. Highland Avenue offers more than a typical neighborhood bar. Combining passion for food and drink with the love of music, chef Ron Eyester offers guests live music and good times every weekend. On Saturday, September 3rd and Sunday the 4th, join in with live rock from The Charlie Wooton Project from 10 p.m. – 1 a.m.; September 9:  Parker Smith and Mike Chesin 8 p.m. – 11 p.m.; September 10: Super Dynamite Express 10 p.m. – 1 a.m.; September 11: Jazz from The Jacob Deaton Quintet 7 p.m. – 10 p.m.; September 17: Swami Gone Bananas 10 p.m. – 1 a.m.; and September 24: Pioneer Chick’n Stand 10 p.m. – 1 a.m.   For more info, visit www.thefamilydogatlanta.com or call 404.249.0180.

•Taqueria del Sol’s second annual Hatch Chile Festival is here. On Sunday, Sept. 11, Taqueria del Sol celebrates the arrival of the annual shipment of chiles from New Mexico. Held at the Howell Mill location, the restaurant will host a block-party celebration spilling into the parking lot under tents from 5 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Chef Eddie Hernandez and the Taqueria del Sol team will craft an assortment of specialty dishes incorporating the spicy green peppers. Musician John Henry will return for a second year to provide live entertainment. Tickets are $18.25 per person and include entry and food stations. Beverages available for purchase. Two reservation times are available at 5 p.m. and 7 p.m.  A portion of the proceeds benefits the Ossabaw Island Foundation. To purchase tickets, visit www.taqueriadelsol.com.

•The College Football Gods have spoken and it’s time for The Official SEC Kickoff Block Party.  This massive party is back and put on by the folks over at the oldest dive bars in Atlanta, Pool Hall and 5 Paces Inn on Friday, September 2nd. Once again, these bars are shutting down Irby Avenue in Buckhead for the party and here is even rumor of a Mash Potato and Hot Dog eating contest plus tons of give-aways including free game tickets. Don’t put it past these fools to have a Bikini Contest to see who has the hottest chicks, UGA or Boise State.  Gates open at 7 p.m. with free food til 9 p.m.  There will be four bars, a gigantic outdoor stage, music by 17th Floor and several DJs.  Admission is $15 at the door and $10 online at www.xorbia.com.

•Oktoberfest takes over the Luckie Marietta District this fall as Der Biergarten and STATS team up for the ultimate celebration of Germany’s famed beer festival.  The restaurants will transform into Munich-inspired eateries (both inside and on the patio) with each room offering a different German draft beer and themed with authentic décor.  Live bands will add to the atmosphere and reusable beer boots will be available for purchase.  Guests can bring back their boots for special pricing on refills during the Oktoberfest season, which kicks off September 17 at 12 p.m. and continues every weekend through October 30th. Der Biergarten will also showcase classic German cuisine – including brats, wursts, strudels, pretzels and mustards – and will debut its new rotisserie for fresh, authentic roasted meat. Visit www.derbiergarten.com or www.facebook.com/derbiergarten. 

New hours, eats, etc...

Brothers Jeff & Matt Bowman of Georgia Farm To Table have opened a produce market, Dewberry Market, at 112 10th Street in the former Jock’s & Jill’s space at the corner of 10th & Peachtree.  It will operate 11 a.m. - 7 p.m. Monday - Saturday... Starting Thursday, Sept. 1, BLT Steak Atlanta (located in the W Hotel Downtown) will offer homage to the king of mollusks--pairing oysters and sparkling wine as part of the ongoing 5@5 specials. Weeknights from 5 to 7:00 p.m. for $20, guests enjoy East and West Coast oysters, which will vary from week to week, and sparkling wine with BLT’s sommelier, Dorine Buche. For more info, go to www.bltsteak.com/atlanta or call 404.577.7601... On Thursday, September 15, RA Sushi on Peachtree invites guests to a So Long Summer Party from 7 p.m. to close to bid farewell with specials all night long and music from DJ Krillz. For more details and to RSVP on Facebook, go to www.facebook.com/RAsushiAtlanta... Continuing every Wednesday night at 8 p.m., pianists Ty Reynolds, Mike Renna and Mark Kovaly will play all the requests you can think of and will tickle the ivories with their own fancies as well at Atkins Park Tavern - Smyrna: Market Village, 2840 Atlanta Road, 770.435.1887... Newly opened No. 246 in Decatur, is serving up a weekly Spaghetti Supper every Monday night during dinner 5 - 10 p.m. Priced at $24 per person, the week’s four-course menu may include toast with two spreads -- wood oven-roasted eggplant with chilies and mint and cannellini beans with braised cavolo nero and Parmesan served family-style. Next follows a salad of local greens with lemony garlic vinaigrette, breadcrumbs, blue cheese and radish served family-style. The main course might offer a choice among three spaghetti combinations: clams, garlic, parsley and lemon; No. 246 meatballs with Parmesan, San Marzano tomatoes and basil; or carbonara with bacon, crispy farm egg and soft herbs. Dessert brings a choice of gelato -- vanilla, espresso or mint. Check out www.no246.com for weekly menus.

Tastes of...

Four ‘Tastes of...’ will be featured this month including:

•Inman Park Restaurant Week September 19th - 25th with participating restaurants offering $25 and $35 menus. Check out www.inmanparkrestaurantweek.com for more info.

•Midtown Restaurant Week through September 4th with midtown eateries showcasing special three-course menus for $25 or $35 per person.  Visit www.atlrestaurantweek.com for participating restaurants and details.

•The 4th Annual Taste of Johns Creek will be held on Sunday, September 25th, 4 -7 p.m. on the grounds of Chattahoochee High School on Taylor Road. The Taste of Johns Creek supports the High School football program, and competition cheerleading. Gourmet foods from over 50 restaurants will be in the spotlight. For additional info, visit www.tasteofjc.com or www.hoochfootball.net.

•The 4th Annual Taste of Chamblee will bring together local restaurants, arts, live entertainment, kids activities, a beer garden and more for the entire family. This free admission (food tickets are $1 each) one day outdoor festival will be held Saturday, September 17, 2011 from 11 a.m. – 8 p.m in Downtown Chamblee on Peachtree Road. Visit www.thetasteofchamblee.com