GAGIVES ON GIVINGTUESDAY 12/1/20

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 11/18/20

Strengthening Our State by Connecting Georgians with Georgia Nonprofits

GAgives on GivingTuesday, Georgia’s biggest giving campaign, is coming up quickly: This year’s campaign kicks off on Monday, November 2, and culminates on December 1, GivingTuesday, as part of the worldwide celebration that takes place each year on the Tuesday after Thanksgiving.

In this time of widespread and mounting need, GAgives aims to bring attention to the work and worth of the nonprofit sector, highlighting the thousands of organizations that work tirelessly for positive and lasting change. Since its founding in 2012, the GAgives movement has rallied 284,000 individual contributions and raised more than $41.5 million for nonprofits across Georgia.

GAgives is organized by the Georgia Center for Nonprofits (GCN), with invaluable support from a range of corporate, foundation, civic and media partners.

Aprio is one of this year’s returning corporate sponsors, funding Power Hour contests that inspire outsized giving. “We’re thrilled to be supporting GAgives again this year,” said Melisa Beauchamp, Aprio’s Nonprofit and Education Industry Leader. “We couldn’t be more pleased with the results from our Power Hour investment last year, which made an incredible return on behalf of Georgia’s nonprofits.”

Also funding donation-incentivizing contests this year: longtime GAgives partner Arby’s Foundation and new partners Marshall Jones (an Atlanta-based accounting firm serving nonprofits) and Brooks, McGinnis & Company (specializing in nonprofit audits). “At Brooks, McGinnis, we have a passion for serving those who serve others,” said Partner Karen Grosvenor. “By using our donation to generate even more giving, GAgives furthers our commitment to help nonprofits grow their missions.”.

Economic impact and giving trends

Nonprofits make up Georgia’s fifth-largest industry, employing more than 277,000 people. “These people pay taxes and buy local goods and services, and so do the organizations they work for,” said GCN President and CEO Karen Beavor. “All this activity is critically important to local economies.”

Some 80% of all nonprofits operate with budgets under $500,000 annually, doing their work in neighborhoods and towns throughout Georgia, and the lion’s share of their revenue comes in small gifts from everyday people. Currently, however, only 53% of households report giving to charity, down from roughly 67% in 2002.

“On December 1, Georgians have an opportunity to support their local community by supporting the nonprofits that make them thrive,” said Beavor. “Historic places, community gathering spots like parks, river walks, and arts groups need our support. So, too, do the local people who benefit from nonprofit work – whether that’s nursing a stray animal to health so it can become a loving pet, facilitating a support group for a family member dealing with cancer, or providing job training and placement for an out-of-work friend. Where there is a need, there is a nonprofit. Your gift, no matter how small, makes a big difference to your local community.”

This year, Georgians can get engaged with the campaign by going to GAgives.org, where they can search for nonprofits, donate directly, and start their own fundraising campaigns for the causes they support; or by following @GAgives on Facebook, and using the hashtag #GAgives on Twitter and Instagram, to share the call to give.

Get in touch with GCN for exclusive, inspiring stories from nonprofit GAgives campaigners.

You can also help the movement by sharing the GAgives on GivingTuesday date and call-to-action; pointing people to the nonprofit giving portal at GAgives.org; and encouraging your audience to spread the word about GAgives, their favorite nonprofit, and why they donate. Georgia’s nonprofits, and the communities they serve, thank you.

About GAgives

Led by the Georgia Center for Nonprofits, GAgives on GivingTuesday aims to bring attention to the work and worth of the nonprofit sector. Since its founding in 2012, the GAgives movement has rallied 284,000 individual contributions and raised more than $41.5 million for nonprofits across Georgia that work tirelessly for positive and lasting change. Learn more at www.gagives.org and Facebook.

About GivingTuesday

Launched by the 92nd Street Y in 2012 and housed in its Belfer Center for Innovation & Social Impact, GivingTuesday is a global movement inspiring people to take collaborative action for their local communities and contribute to the causes they believe in. The movement reaches millions of people, with campaigns and activities in all 50 states and 150 countries, throughout the year, culminating on the Tuesday after Thanksgiving.

About the Georgia Center for Nonprofits

The Georgia Center for Nonprofits builds thriving communities by helping nonprofits succeed. Through a powerful mix of advocacy, solutions for nonprofit effectiveness, and insight-building tools, GCN provides nonprofits, board members, and donors with the tools they need to strengthen organizations that make a difference on important causes throughout Georgia. Learn more at gcn.org, on Facebook and LinkedIn.

FOX THEATRE’S MARQUEE CLUB IS NEW MIRACLE ATLANTA BAR LOCATION FOR 2020

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 11/15/20

Iconic Christmas-Themed Pop-Up Partners for Time Ticketed Experience +
First Public Event at Venue Since March
Tickets on Sale THIS Friday, October 23, 2020 at 10 a.m.

Get excited Atlanta – there is another Miracle location and its right in the heart of the city. Miracle at the Fox Theatre’s Marquee Club presented by Lexus arrives just after Miracle Atlanta recently announced its return for the 2020 holiday season. Apparently, we have all been very good this year! The exciting addition complements the other locations (Miracle at Wonderkid + Miracle on Highland) and two Sippin’ Santa sites (Sippin’ Santa at Bon Ton + Sippin’ Santa at Golden Eagle). The Miracle team, working with the Fox Theatre, is excited to safely offer this one-of-a-kind experience despite COVID-19 (the real grinch of 2020).

“Talk about a Christmas miracle,” said Eric Simpkins, co-founder of Big Citizen along with partner Darren Carr who head up Miracle Atlanta. “The Fox Theatre’s Marquee Club is a dream venue and the perfect location for Miracle to expand with a new type of experience, especially in today’s health climate. This ticketed offering allows us to social distance, limit capacity, create unique holiday moments paired with all the signature Christmas cocktails and cheer while prioritizing the safety of everyone. We’re beyond excited to offer this to Atlanta.”

Staying in true Miracle fashion, Miracle at the Fox Theatre’s Marquee Club presented by Lexus will transport guests right into the center of Christmas. Safe, Santa-approved festivities will take place every Thursday-Sunday night beginning Nov. 20 and running through Jan.1, 2021. For $50 per person, patrons can reserve their own socially-distanced table (for up to 8 guests) and 90-minute experience that includes more holiday décor and Miracle kitsch that one can wrap their head around, multiple photo opportunities (think rooftop selfie station holiday style), live entertainment components (maybe even a Santa sighting), complimentary Christmas snack-mix and cookies at each table, and a signature Miracle Santa cocktail mug. Miracle’s famous, holiday-themed cocktail and food menu will also be available for purchase along with fun, Christmas-themed merchandise in multiple retail nooks. It is a perfect way to get all the perks of a regular Miracle experience kicked up a notch. Think multi-level fun house meets North Pole.

2020 JUST GOT A LITTLE BRIGHTER WITH THE RETURN OF MIRACLE + SIPPIN’ SANTA HOLIDAY POP-UPS

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 11/15/20

COVID-19 Can’t Stop Christmas Cheer + Miracle’s Fifth Year in Atlanta Welcomes New Location.
The pandemic may have canceled lots of events this year, but Christmas won’t be one of them. Miracle, the city’s favorite holiday tradition, is back and ready for its fifth year in Atlanta, with guidelines in place to ensure the safety of everyone partaking in the much-needed upcoming cheer. Due to location size, Miracle on Monroe will not be on Santa’s list this year. However, a new location, Miracle at Wonderkid at Atlanta Dairies, is being added, with Miracle on Highland returning to The Brasserie & Neighborhood Café PARISH. Sippin’ Santa is back at Bon Ton, along with a new location at Golden Eagle.

“What an unimaginably tough year for everyone globally,” said Eric Simpkins, co-founder of Big Citizen along with partner Darren Carr. “We’re hoping we can make a difference in Atlanta and that Miracle will bring Christmas cheer to our community in a time where we need it most. We’re especially excited about the two new locations. We’re making Memorial Drive our very own “Christmas District,” and Miracle at Wonderkid and Sippin’ Santa at Golden Eagle will keep us merry and bright.”

In its fifth season in Atlanta, Miracle returns with all the special holiday cocktails you’ve come to love, holiday décor straight from a Hallmark movie, a staff so happy you’ll wonder if they’ve kept up with the news, and enough holiday cheer to forget 2020 and usher us into 2021. Sippin’ Santa, Miracle’s Christmas-themed Tiki takeover, is also back so more people can safely enjoy Santa beachside. However you prefer your Christmas cheer, Miracle is sure to deliver… and just so you know, wearing a mask ensures you’re on Santa’s good list.

Miracle at Wonderkid, new to the scene, is excited to welcome in a new era of Miracle in Atlanta. Located at Atlanta Dairies, Wonderkid will be decked in holiday gear and ready to serve up Christmas off Memorial. If being inside still isn’t something you want this year, The Yard at Atlanta Dairies will be in on the fun, making Miracle a safe and accessible experience for everyone.

Miracle on Highland is back for its third year at PARISH in Inman Park and ready to serve up cheer with a side of safety. The beautifully decorated spot is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays, but ready for you throughout the rest of the week.

Bon Ton’s Sippin’ Santa, the all-ages tiki twin to Miracle, returns for its third year at Bon Ton along with a new location at Golden Eagle. The tiki-themed meets Christmas atmosphere is perfect for those who didn’t get to take their beach vacations this year. Bon Ton will keep its regular hours for lunch and dinner but won’t offer its traditional drink menu during Sippin’ Santa. Golden Eagle will be operating inside and outside and serving up the holiday-meets-paradise drink menu Atlantans have come to love.

Further details on all locations, including hours and safety measures in place, will be released soon.

Beverage and cocktail menus will be the same for each location. Signature Miracle Chex mix and cookie plates will be available at each location as well. Food menus will be customized per location and announced mid-November. For more details on how to get into the holiday spirit at these festive joints, head to www.miraclebaratlanta.com.

Miracle is 21 and up (excluding Sippin’ Santa), with no entry fee. There is a 2-hour limit for tables, and due to all the Christmas cheer required to keep Miracle on Monroe and Sippin’ Santa in tip-top shape, a 20% service charge will be added to each check. Hours and days open at each location will be released soon. Locations include Miracle on Highland – The Brasserie and Neighborhood Café at PARISH, 240 North Highland Ave. NE, Atlanta, GA 30307; Miracle at Wonderkid – Wonderkid, 777 Memorial Dr. SE, Atlanta, GA 30316; Sippin’ Santa at Bon Ton – Bon Ton, 674 Myrtle St. SE, Atlanta, GA 30318; Sippin’ Santa at Golden Eagle – Golden Eagle, 904 Memorial Dr. SE, Atlanta, GA 30316. Please send party inquiries to MiracleBarAtlanta@gmail.com. For updates on Miracle, visit Facebook or www.miraclebaratlanta.com.

THANKSGIVING ROUND-UP 2020

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 11/14/20

Photo from DBA Barbeque taken by Liz

Buckhead Life Group @ 103 West 

Each meal includes:
•Butternut Squash Soup
white truffle oil
•Whole Roasted Turkey
Carved at Your Convenience
•Family Style Trimmings Include
Berkshire Pork Sausage Cornbread Dressing
Granny Smith Apple Rosemary Dressing
Buttery Potato Purée
Selection of Roasted Organic Fall Vegetables
Sweet Potato Soufflé with Crunchy Candied Pecan Crust
Thin Green Beans, Creamy Mushrooms and Crispy Onions
Fresh Cranberry & Orange Relish
Rich Homemade Turkey Gravy
• “Grande Dessert”
Pumpkin Pie and Georgia Pecan Pie
$75. Per Person. Serving 4, 8, or 12 people.
Sign up for a time on buckheadrestaurants.com or call 404-601-1310. Pick-up location is @103west in Buckhead on Thanksgiving day.

DBA Barbeque

Let DBA do the cooking!

The bird (smoked oven-ready Turkey) by itself will be between 10-14 lbs. It will come with a side of Turkey gravy with 48-hour order notice for $89.

The full Turkey To-Go meal feeds 6 and has the same smoked bird as above (10-14) lbs and includes the following sides to feed 6:
-Smoked (oven ready) Turkey
-Turkey Gravy
-Whipped Potatoes
-Sweet Potato Souffle
-Garlic Green Beans\-Dressing
-Cranberry Relish
-Corn Muffins
48-hour order notice for $235

Wine packages are also available as an add on – can ask about them when calling to place the order.

ALL orders MUST be placed by Monday, November 23, 2020.
ALL orders must be picked up by 7:00pm on Wednesday, November 25, 2020.

To place an order call 404-249-5010.

A Thanksgiving Meal You’ll Want to Gobble Down at TWO: 
Thanksgiving is a time to count blessings, not carbs. Just for Thanksgiving, TWO urban licks will be offering Two-Go options that are two good to pass up. Conveniently located on the Atlanta BeltLine, TWO is offering both a la carte and bundle menus, feeding four to six people. Satisfy the whole family’s tastebuds with everything from savory to sweet. Orders must be placed by Wednesday, November 18th at noon and are to be picked up by Wednesday, November 25th at Bully Boy. To place an order call 404.522.4622 or email twothanksgiving@ctrxhs.com.
A La Carte Menu:
8-10lb. Half Turkey (Brined and Roasted) with Turkey Gravy – $65
White Cheddar Mac & Cheese – $18
Traditional Stuffing – $15
Green Bean Casserole, French Fried Onions – $16
Red Bliss Mashed Potatoes – $15
Candied Yams – $15
Cranberry Compote – $10
Parker House Rolls – $10/Dozen
Salmon Chips (8-10 Chips Worth) – $26
9’’ Apple Pie – $28
9” Pumpkin pie – $28
Bundle Menu Option:
8-10 lb Half Turkey (Brined & Roasted) with Turkey Gravy
1 of Each Side
Choice of Apple or Pumpkin Pie
$190 – Feeds 4-6 People
$210 – Includes 2 Bottles of Wine (Choice of White, Red, & Sparkling)
Celebrate Thanksgiving All Month Long at Red’s Beer Garden: 
Eat, drink, and be FULL! Throughout November, Red’s Beer Garden is giving Atlantans and foodies alike something to be eternally grateful for, The Thanksgiving Dog! Topped with cranberry sauce, mashed potatoes, gravy, and chives, hungry revelers can indulge in Red’s take on all-things Thanksgiving for $8.50. Enhance this tasty Thanksgiving treat by pairing it with the perfect six-pack of beers, including lagers, pilsners, stouts, Saisons, and more. Red’s is open for take-out and patio dining for optimal ways guests can enjoy The Thanksgiving Dog and full menu. Red’s Beer Garden is nestled between Grant Park and East Atlanta in Benteen Park, 1328 Boulevard SE, Atlanta, GA 30315. For more information, visit www.redsbeergarden.com or call 770-637-2299.
Easy, Care-free Thanksgiving with Dantanna’s Fully Prepared To-Go Meal:

With Thanksgiving just around the corner, it’s time to start thinking about what family and friends will want to feast on. With their new Thanksgiving-To-Go offering, Dantanna’s is ready to the cooking for parties of four.  For $160, diners can indulge in a three-course, chef-driven meal and choose a soup or salad, four sides, a 1/2 breast or 1/2 bird flavored with a choice of sage butter roasted, house rubbed and slow hickory smoked, or flash-fried in zero trans-fat soybean oil, and a dessert. Order online at dantannas.com by November 15th.  Dantanna’s Buckhead is located at the  Shops Around Lenox, 3400 Around Lenox Rd NE #304,  Atlanta, GA 30326.For more information, visit  www.dantannas.com   or  call 404.760.8873.  Stay connected on Twitter and Instagram at @dantannas.
Dantanna’s Thanksgiving To-Go Menu 
Soup or Salad
(Choose One)
Caesar Salad
House Salad
Chicken & Sausage Gumbo
Pumpkin Bisque
Turkey
½ breast or ½ bird
(Choice of: sage butter roasted, house rubbed and slow hickory smoked, or flash fried in zero trans-fat soybean oil)
House-made Cranberry Sauce
Yeast Rolls
Brown Gravy
Sides
(Choose Four)
Dressing
Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Green Beans
Brussels Sprouts
Southern Fried Corn
Whipped Sweet Potatoes
Dessert
(Choose One)
Chocolate Bourbon Pie
Krispy Kreme Bread Pudding
Eat, Drink, and Give Thanks on Thanksgiving at STK:
Be extra thankful this year with STK Atlanta’s Thanksgiving offerings. Starting Wednesday, November 26 through Saturday, November 29 from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., STK’s Thanksgiving menu is something to gobble about. Known for its signature and seasonal offerings, STK will be serving a roasted turkey special with chestnut cornbread stuffing, green beans, sweet potato, Yukon Gold Potatoes, old school gravy and cranberry orange chutney for $49 per person. Children 12 and under can also enjoy a roasted turkey special with all the trimmings for $29. Guests with a sweet tooth can dive into a Traditional Pumpkin Pie served with Bailey’s whipped cream and vanilla ice cream for $12. STK’s full dinner menu featuring Lobster Mac & Cheese, seafood platters, and an array of cooked-to-perfection filets, delectable sides and much more, will also be available. Bring the family or enjoy the options of takeout and delivery. For more information or to make  a reservation ,visit  https://stksteakhouse.com/venues/atlanta or call  404-793-0144.
Get Stuffed This Thanksgiving at Kona Grill: 
Give thanks this Thanksgiving at Kona Grill with special seasonal dining options. Beginning Tuesday, November 25 to Saturday, November 29, holiday diners can enjoy a choice between delicious Thanksgiving dishes including Traditional Roasted Turkey Plate: roasted turkey breast, mashed potatoes and cream gravy, brioche stuffing, sautéed green beans, and ginger- yuzu infused cranberry sauce for $24; a Macadamia Nut Turkey Plate:  macadamia nut crusted turkey breast, miso mashed potatoes, shoyu cream sauce, sautéed green beans, and ginger-yuzu infused cranberry sauce for $26; or a Turkey Loco Plate: sautéed turkey patties, a sunny side up egg, cream gravy, whipped sweet potatoes, sautéed green beans, dried cranberry spiced pecans, pumpkin seeds, and and crispy collard greens for $26. Children can enjoy a choice of Thanksgiving trimmings such as the Kids Macadamia Nut or Roasted Turkey plates, served in a bento box with Kona’s signature orange bear, and a children’s beverage for $14. Keep the night sweet with a Macadamia Nut Pie with roasted nuts, coconut flakes, and vanilla ice cream, for just $12. The full Kona grill menu and children’s menu will also be available. Kona is open for dine-in, delivery and curbside pickup.  For more information or to make a reservation, visit www.konagrill.com/alpharetta or call 470-226-1540.

Le Bilboquet will offer a special Thanksgiving menu (here) for in-restaurant dining and to-go, featuring holiday favorites with an elevated twist, including Turkey and Homemade Dressing with pommery mustard and tarragon butternut squash, Tasmanian Trout with potato gnocchi and Pumpkin Cheesecake. The dine-in and to-go prefix will be $75 per adult and $25 per child. All to-go orders must be placed by Thursday, November 19. To make reservations, please call (404) 869-9944.

Hampton + Hudson

299 North Highland Avenue NE

The community bar and grill will open at 6pm on Thanksgiving Day and offer a limited menu until 11pm, featuring burgers, mac & cheese, wings, fries and a Thanksgiving Place Special. For $25, the plate includes sliced turkey with gravy, stuffing, mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, green bean casserole, a roll and pumpkin pie cheesecake. They’ll also be offering drinks specials and playing the evening’s football games on all TVs.

TO-GO:

Let Hampton + Hudson do the cooking this year! The Inman Park restaurant is now accepting pre-orders for Thanksgiving meals to-go, including sliced turkey with gravy, stuffing, mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, green bean casserole, rolls and pumpkin pie cheesecake, for $50 for two or $100 for four. A la carte sides of these dishes are also available. Pre-orders can be placed online here through Wednesday, November 18 at 12pm.

Root Baking Co. – Baked goods and breads from Root Baking Co. are available for pre-order online and in person at Root Baking Co. on the second floor at Ponce City Market through Fri., Nov. 20. Pick-up is Tues., Nov. 24 from noon to 2pm.

BOCADO

887 Howell Mill Rd NW

BOCADO is now accepting pre-orders for Thanksgiving take-out! Available for groups of four, six or eight, the complete take-home kit includes 10-ounces of sliced, slow-roasted Leaping Waters Farm Turkey per person, a Sweet Potato Soufflé Pie with pecans and vanilla cream for dessert, plus the following sides. Orders must be placed by Friday, November 20, with pick-up at BOCADO the day before Thanksgiving (Wednesday, November 25). Meals are $85 for four, $115 for six and $145 for eight; add a bottle of prosecco to any order for just $22. Call the restaurant at (404) 815-1399 to order. 

 

  • Roasted Broccoli with garlic, calabrese pepper, tomme fondue
  • Creamy Potato Puree with house gravy
  • Red & Gold Beet Salad with tzatziki, lemon, arugula, pumpkin seeds
  • Wood-Fired Bread with creamy butter

DELBAR: The Inman Park Middle Eastern restaurant is now accepting pre-orders for a holiday special! Offered throughout the new year, this special feeds up to 10 people and includes spiced leg of lamb, fresh taftoon bread, torshi (pickled vegetables), sabzi polo with tahdig, zhough, dill labneh and a sabzi plate with mint, tarragon, feta, radish and walnuts. Each leg of lamb is roasted for four hours and weighs roughly 10 pounds. Orders require 48 hours notice and can be placed over the phone at (404) 500-1444. The special is $230.

The Southern Gentleman is accepting pre-orders for Thanksgiving meals now through November 22 via phone at (404) 939-9845 or email at info@tsg-atl.com. Pickup will be Wednesday, November 25, and entree options serving four-six people include Slow Roasted Turkey Roulade stuffed with brioche and confit turkey dressing & gravy ($99), Apple Cider Brined Roasted Pork Shoulder with spiced apple chutney ($99) and Herb Crusted Apple Wood Smoked Prime Rib with portobello mushroom gravy ($129). Each entree comes with a pumpkin pie. The following sides are also available in quarts for pre-order for $20 each.

  • Braised Green Beans with Dill
  • Buttermilk Whipped Potatoes
  • Honey Roasted Brussel Sprouts with Red Chili
  • Portobello Mushroom Gravy
  • Turkey Gravy
  • Hasselback Butternut Squash with Toasted Almonds
  • Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Crumble & Whipped Marshmallow
  • Honey & Orange Glazed Carrots

THE RINK POWERED BY PEPSI ZERO RETURNS TO PARK TAVERN THANKSGIVING WEEKEND 2020

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 11/14/20

Experience A Miracle on 10th Street With Seasonal Cocktails, Delicious Fare, Kitschy Holiday Decor, Themed Skate Nights, Movies, Special Events and Much More  
November 26, 2020 Through Monday, February 15, 2021 
Once upon a time, there was a Miracle on 10th Street and with the return of The Rink at Park Tavern Powered by Pepsi Zero, Atlantans and visitors alike can embrace the magic and nostalgia of the holiday season beginning Thanksgiving Day, Thursday, November 26, 2020 through Presidents Day, February 15, 2021.  A beloved annual tradition, this year, guests of all ages are invited to enjoy a new theme at The Rink at Park Tavern Powered by Pepsi Zero, A Miracle on 10th Street.  Setting the scene, a winter wonderland featuring an abundance of festive and kitschy decor, makes for unforgettable experiences and Instagrammable moments seven days a week.  Holiday cheer promises to be abound with an array of seasonal cocktails served in playful glassware, delicious fare, special events, all day skate sessions, themed skate nights, cozy fire pits, and much more.
Following safety protocols and guidelines from the CDC and State and Georgia, the 85-foot long and 40-foot wide, covered rink is heated and boasts a state-of-the-art sound system.  Complimented by Park Tavern’s dog-friendly, expansive patio overlooking Piedmont Park and the Midtown skyline, guests can hit the ice, relax in private cabanas and bubble tents, gather around stone fire pits and cook s’mores, and catch their favorite teams and holiday movies on numerous flatscreen TVs.  In addition to 10 distinct decorated areas to capture favorite holiday photos with friends and family, guests can also take advantage of four new selfie stations, complete with festive backdrops, skaters, imbibers and diners can easily capture and share memories that will last a lifetime.  Park Tavern also has The Rink at Park Tavern Powered by Pepsi Zero is available for private parties and marriage proposals and offers private skating lessons taught by professional ice skaters for tots to adults, courtesy of the Learn to Skate program led by Olympic Coach Craig Maurizi.
The Rink at Park Tavern Powered by Pepsi Zero will be open Monday through Friday from 4:30 p.m. to midnight and Saturday and Sunday from 11:30 a.m. to 2 a.m. Guests of all ages can enjoy skating experiences for $15 Monday through Thursday and $20 Friday through Sunday until 8 p.m. At 8:30 p.m., The Rink at Park Tavern becomes an ages 16 and up venue until midnight.  Group packages and Season and Family Passes are also available.  To purchase tickets and for more information, visit www.parktavern.com.

Atlanta Fish Market

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 11/11/20

In the heart of Buckhead, one place that has withstood the test of time is the classic seafood spot, Atlanta Fish Market. Greeted by a gigantic fish and a gaudy neon sign, they serve up seafood that’s so fresh that it’s flown in every day! Of the menu, this go-to spot has it all from captivating carpaccio, sassy sushi, killer cocktails, delicate sea bass and salmon, to even scrumptious dessert. It’s apparent Atlanta Fish Market corners the market on fresh fish. Drop an anchor and join us for a see-food extravaganza.

What’s a good meal without the cocktails that go with it? We sampled three that included The Bramble, Beachside, and Sidecar. Pinkish purple in hue, the Bramble is boozy, and sweet with the blackberry puree, make sure to mix it up because it balances between the two and you get a dynamic drink. The Beachside is an easy, breezy cocktail that reminds you of the “islands.” With hints of coconut rum and the slight tart of the grapefruit, you’ll go from sweet to tart throughout the entire sip. The one that ended up being our favorite was the Sidecar. It was mellow and balanced with the sweeter cognac and the booziness of the Gran Marnier. What we loved was that it was so clean with just a hint of lemon on the back. Which one would you want to try?

To get us started on food, they brought out the Yellowtail Carpaccio. The fish itself is marinated in olive oil and was so tender that it literally would melt-in-your mouth. Plus, it was perfectly seasoned then topped with shallots and onion that mixed together into a meaty and tart bite. Our pro tip is to add the fresh lemon squeeze for a little bit of brightness. All together we’d recommend skipping the bread and just eat it plain. It’s everything you’d imagine and more.

The addition of sushi at Atlanta Fish Market is a welcome sight because with the fresh fish would come the best sushi, right? Both rolls we tasted were simply dynamite! The first one was the Tiger Roll. Imagine the tender tuna, crunch of tempura, the creaminess of cream cheese, and a sweet and spicy of the sauce all rolled up in seaweed for everything sushi should taste like! Plus, we loved the addition of the asparagus because it brought a little extra crunch and earthiness, so it ended up being creamy, crunchy, earthy, and just plain GOOD. A must try. The second roll that knocked our socks off was the Volcano Roll. This spicy number was super colorful in both sight and taste! Starting with the crunchy cucumber intertwined with the mellow and spicy tuna and the creamy avocado, then the spicy comes in to punch your mouth. We mean that in a good way, too. The best bite is to choose the pieces with the avocado and fish together on the outside because you get more of the creamy flavor and it mellows some of the spice. This one has all the flavors and another must try.

Don’t get us started on how much we adored the Hong King Combo Chilean Sea Bass and Faroe Island Salmon Entree. This wonderful dish is a simple, fresh, and tender sea bass and salmon duo atop a moat of a fantastic sweet soy sauce and wilted spinach greens. We cannot express how perfectly fresh the fish turned out to be or how it literally fell apart in your mouth. Surrounded by sweet and rich soy forward sauce that’s perfectly balanced, not too salty, complimented the tenderness of the fish and the earthiness of the greens. Then, insert rice to soak up all the deliciousness of all the ingredients! Still dreaming of this plate.

The literal icing on the cake was the Mousse Cake. The light and airy chocolaty mousse combines well with the decadent and rich chocolate cake layers. We swear they must have some type of alcohol cooked into the layers it’s so rich and deep! Stop, do not remove the sugar crisp on the top, instead crunch it up and mix it in the cake and mousse because it elevates the cake with some crunch and bite. Every bite was calorie free, we’re sure! Worth it.

What we loved so much about Atlanta Fish Market is they have a little something for everyone; sushi for the sushi lover, entrees with the freshest fish, lobster and oysters for the shellfish lovers. What sounds the best to you?

LOCAL FAVE VARUNI NAPOLI FEATURED IN UBER EATS AD!

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 11/9/20

What do Atlanta’s Varuni Napoli, Jonathan Van Ness of “Queer Eye” and Olympic Medalist Simone Biles have in common?  A national ad campaign is what! Uber Eats released their latest series of commercials this month and everyone’s favorite Neapolitan pizza spot is one of the stars. Varuni Napoli has been in the top 5% of Uber Eats deliveries across the U.S. and now they are getting the recognition they deserve in the form of a star-studded ad spot.

Check out the full commercial here.

BIG NIGHT OUT ATLANTA

Posted by Liz Attaway, 11/4/20

There is a buzz that lifts through the air as the lights dim on stage, you hear several voices raise in excitement, several clap with enthusiasm, while others stand quietly in anticipation. A small group shuffles through the dark to their instruments as the lights go up and blaze into a prism of blues, greens, and reds. The crowd cannot contain itself and erupts in applause, singing, and joy. The future of live music hangs in the balance on this weekend of performances, because if done right, this could be the norm until we “get back to normal.” And Big Night Out is the path forward. With acts like Moon Taxi, Big Boi and his friends, as well as Futurebirds, and Pigeons Playing Ping Pong, we can proudly announce that live music is back AND SAFE.

Everything was done to ensure the best concert experience, while keeping the attendees safe. Starting with the mask requirement for public spaces and to maintain a 6-foot distance was key. You can say that they’re required all day long, but without constant reinforcement, some people will have a few drinks and forget. We literally saw a group of people employed to tell people to put their masks back on in public spaces. Second key is the way they handle the crowd. With pods that separated the crowd into 2, 3, 4, and 6 into groups that were socially distanced 6 feet, this is how you keep people safe, yet can enjoy a great show. We wouldn’t be surprised if these “rage cages” caught on and started a trend. Yes, rage cage, write it down, it’s the future of enjoying music safely! Every time I heard this term, Smashing Pumpkins Bullet With Butterfly Wings lyrics pop into my head, “Despite all my rage, I’m still just a rat in a cage.” Insert rage in front of cage! Genius. But, back to pods themselves, this was a great experience in tandem with the mask requirements! We were VERY pleased with the whole experience. Good job, Big Night Out!

On Friday, we saw two fun bands perform, Pigeons Playing Ping Pong and Moon Taxi. Here’s a little bit about them and some photos!

Reminiscent of semi-local greats like Here Come the Mummies, Pigeons Playing Ping Pong kicked-off Big Night Out Atlanta. From the funky beats, to 70s grooves, to big band tunes, they’re a high-energy band that loves what they do! Maybe it’s the lack of live shows they get to do, but the enthusiasm permeates all their music and gets the audience excited. It culminates in long guitar solos, jams to island sounds, and fun sing-alongs like the Lion King Cover.

What struck us about Moon Taxi is that this is the product of all those years of rock-n-roll rolled up into one good band! The sounds of the 80s, electronica, indie rock, fast/slow rock of the early aughts, 90s reverb all permeate each song. This well-produced, smooth sounding, indie/alt rock group, has a great guitarist, fantastic singer, and a ton of energy. They mentioned that they hadn’t toured in 240+ days and you could feel every minute of the happiness of both the crowd and the band. Turn it up to 11!

Saturday night was delayed due to a huge rainstorm that dumped a boatload of water on the audience. Here’s some photos from that night, courtesy of Drew Dinwiddie.

Futurebirds are touted as an indie rock band with country rock elements, Wiki calls it, ‘Psychedelic Country.” Also according to Wiki, they have toured with Drivin’ & Cryin’, Grace Potter, and performed at big music festivals, like Bonoroo.

The Marcus King Band is a southern rock band out of South Carolina that mixes its sound with blues and big band.

Sunday night was all-in for the local former-Outkast great, Big Boi and boy, did he bring the crew to play!

Mixing in DJs, rock-rap of Kneel’n Rey, Killer Mike, Goodie Mob with CeeLo Green, Sleepy Brown, it was an all-out bass fest.  You could feel it right in the chest, and it was GLORIOUS. Performing OutKast favorites like Rosa Parks, Bombs over Baghdad, to Goodie Mob’s Cell Therapy, there wasn’t a lack of grooving and singing along. Big Boi and his pose always bring so much energy to their performances and this one was the same! I am a little partial to OutKast as they were popular when I was in college back in the day, and I love how much they mix sounds of the late 90s and early aughts with up tempo samples and maybe even a little hint of cotton-eyed Joe mixed in for fun. It was a fun time dancing, singing, and feeling the energy from each performance.

Did we mention we love the term rage cage? That’s really want the pods are and we hope to see more concerts and big festivals go this way. Getting live music back will help our souls and if it’s done this way, we’ll all feel safer for it. Welcome, back live music!

Photo Gallery:

XFINITY MOVIE SERIES RETURNS TO THE BATTERY ATLANTA 2020

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 11/3/20

The annual movie lineup has something for the whole family to enjoy!

Movie nights have become a regular family activity, so The Battery Atlanta is queuing up feel-good comedies, action-packed adventures and more with the return of its popular Xfinity Movie Series. Every Friday at 7 p.m., visitors can immerse themselves in the big-screen experience outdoors at the Plaza Green. Guests of all ages are encouraged to spread out six feet apart with lawn chairs or thick blankets to set the scene for a casual and cozy – yet socially-distanced – night under the stars. Moviegoers can also order takeout at any of the one-of-a-kind dining options featured at The Battery Atlanta for the perfect dinner and a movie picnic. Visitors are asked to follow public safety guidelines while on property.

WHAT:
Xfinity Movie Series                      

WHEN:
Every Friday at 7 p.m.
Oct. 30 –  Minions
Nov. 6 – Kicking & Screaming
Nov. 13 – How to Train Your Dragon
Nov. 20 – The Goonies
Dec. 4 – The Lorax
Dec. 11 – Abominable
Dec. 18 – The Grinch

WHERE:
The Battery Atlanta (Plaza Green)
800 Battery Ave
Atlanta, GA 30339                           

MORE INFO:
This event is FREE and open to the public. All movies are rated PG. Parking is free for the first three hours in the Red Deck. Dates are subject to change due to weather. Visit the website for schedule updates.

IL Localino: A Little Spot Big On Flavor

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 11/1/20

Stuffed with an array of Japanese lanterns intermingling with twinkle lights and a large wine wall, Il Localino in between the Highlands and Inman Park is a little place serving up larger than life flavors. From the earthy and mellow burrata salad, pitch perfect rigatoni Bolognese, the rich and savory Lamb Osso Bucco, signature cocktails, and right down to the meatballs, there’s nothing little about Il Localino, including two of the nicest, warmest owners around! Let’s take a walk around the menu, warning, this is going to make you hungry.

The pair of cocktails that were recommended, Espresso Martini and Purple rain, we’re both fantastic. The favorite of the bunch was the Espresso Martini with its stout coffee flavor that mixes with the booziness of the alcohol and a comes with dash of sugar on the rim for something sweet. We could sip on this all day and just relax! This has ended up being one of our favorite cocktails we’ve had all year. The other cocktail was the Purple Rain that muddles blueberries and lime with vodka. This beauty comes to life with a sassy and tart sweet one-two punch. If you’re looking for a patio sipper, this one is for you.

A simple, classic, Italian feast was presented to us starting with an impeccable burrata and arugula salad. With a mellow, and light burrata, the soft cheese is paired with the earthiness and spice of the arugula and lathered in a deep and rich balsamic drizzle. All the flavors together with the crunch of the lettuce is a solid salad that’s a precursor to a fantastic Italian feast. Save some room because, the rigatoni Bolognese reminds you that a good, staple pasta plate can be just as amazing as anything fancy. Starting with the fresh pasta that was cooked in that sweet spot between al dente and super soft, the rigatoni itself was hefty and memorable. Topping it with the meaty, savory, tangy, Bolognese sauce and you have a rich and perfect plate of deliciousness. This is one of the best pasta dishes we’ve had this year and is a MUST try.

Just when you think your dinner can’t get any better, enters the Lamb Osso Bucco! A beautiful lamb shank that literally will fall off the bone is a rich and meaty piece of perfection. Then, it’s cooked in a deep and savory sauce that intertwines lemon, rosemary, and slightly creamy into one magnificent bite. The rosemary and lemon really brighten up the dish and create a balance to juxtapose between the richness of the meat and the delicateness of the sauce. Plus, the best accoutrement you could put with this dish is the cheesy polenta and marinated mushrooms. Our tip is to mix up the polenta, meat, sauce, and mushrooms into one bite. Insert mind blown emoji here. The pasta and the lamb were both so good, we actually couldn’t decide what we enjoyed more. Both dishes are something you need to put on your to-do list!

What would you want to try when you go to Il Localino? Thinking we’ll try one of the long list of specials like the sea bass next time paired with a fresh white wine glass. Salut!