RED PHONE BOOTH AND AMALFI PIZZA TO ADD NEW LOCATION IN BUCKHEAD

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 3/29/21

Slated for a second quarter opening this year, construction is underway for Red Phone Booth and Amalfi Pizza’s dual concept location at 3242 Peachtree Rd NE in Buckhead. With taller ceilings, the 11,000 square foot space is being built out to offer exceptional air quality with 10 direct air purifiers and and three Aaon Direct Outdoor Air Systems that will clean the air approximately every two minutes. Both venues will also feature Needlepoint Bipolar Ionization (NBPI) technology that purifies air by eliminating airborne particulates, odors and pathogens by attacking and killing viruses, mold spores and bacteria. With 6500 square feet in the speakeasy, Red Phone Booth’s main bar will have a modified layout to effectively double production speed of cocktails. Additionally, the private event space, known as the Mafia Kitchen, will be enhanced with soaring ceilings, a dedicated bar, pool and poker tables along with Christian Waggoner artwork centered around an 85” 4K screen and two 65” screens for game day viewing while enjoying a cigar and a rare whiskey. With 5500 square feet and seating for 152, Amalfi Pizza’s Neapolitan eatery will feature an extended fresh pasta and specialty pizza selection, full bar with Italian wines in a romantic atmosphere under antique beams plus an outdoor seating complete with a fireplace. Guest will also be able to shop in a retail market area offering fresh mozzarella, pasta, single serve dishes, Italian wines, aged meats, and other imported items.

“We are excited to return to Buckhead where I started my hospitality career in Atlanta over two decades ago,” said Founding Partner Stephen de Haan. “Additionally, guests will be always amazed at the great lengths that we have taken for air quality and purification so they can enjoy our award winning craft cocktail and cigar experience.”

Red Phone Booth is an unparalleled 1920s speakeasy experience with unforgettable service, a distinctive atmosphere, and extremely rare spirits. First launched in downtown Atlanta in 2016, the flagship Red Phone Booth location quickly became a fan favorite for patrons looking for a sophisticated good time with exceptional craft cocktails, delicious food and award winning cigars. Guests dial a secret phone number on a rotary phone in an antique London red phone booth. From the fresh-squeezed juice in the craft cocktails to the walk-in humidor, every detail has been strategically designed to deliver an memorable, buzz-worthy experience for guests. Red Phone Booth is also open in Nashville with three additional franchise locations planned for later this year.

Open seven days a week for lunch and dinner, Amalfi Pizza is a traditional Neapolitan pizzeria centered around two 6000 pound wood-burning brick ovens imported from Italy. Named one of the Best Pizzas in America’s Biggest Cities by Food Network and Georgia’s only member of Association Vera Pizza Napoletana, Amalfi’s authentic Italian menu includes Neapolitan-style pizzas as well as authentic appetizers, fresh salads, traditional pasta dishes and original desserts. Originating in and the true pizza of Naples in the 1600s, Vera Pizza Napoletana is 12 inches or less in size, made from simple fresh quality ingredients from the Campania region of Italy and cooked at temperatures in excess of 900 degrees in approximately 60 seconds.

NEW MOE’S ORIGINAL BBQ NOW OPEN IN PEACHTREE CORNERS

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 3/29/21

Now Open!

The award-winning Moe’s Original BBQ restaurant opened another Atlanta area location in Wellington Center at 5005 Peachtree Parkway in Peachtree Corners on Tuesday, March 23rd. The almost 2000 square foot fast casual restaurant is open on Tuesdays-Sundays from 11am-9pm. Moe’s Original BBQ is a great place for the community to enjoy a meal together, celebrate little league victories, birthdays and watch their favorite sports on TVs around the full premium bar or on the large outdoor patio. Pick up and delivery service is available from Chow Now and Uber Eats. Premium catering services with a service-oriented staff is ready to accommodate any group for parties and events.

“Born, raised and currently living in Peachtree Corners, I always felt that this particular location would be a perfect fit for a Moe’s Original BBQ as it has the capability to service all of Peachtree Corners, Berkeley Lake and South Johns Creek,” said partner Harris Carlock. “So, I partnered with my cousin, Scott Carlock, who has an extensive restaurant background, as well as another Moe’s Original BBQ owner Kyle McCarter.”

Serving Alabama-style BBQ since 1988, Moe’s Original BBQ has been named in the Top 10 BBQ Chains in America by USA Today and The Daily Meal, one of the fastest growing, emerging restaurant chains by Restaurant Business Magazine, and one of the Top 10 Rib Joints in the U.S. by Relish. Served with red BBQ and Alabama white sauces, the award-winning smoked menu features pulled pork, ribs, wings, turkey and chicken as well as fish and shrimp selections. Prepared fresh daily, a rotation of 60 traditional Southern sides and house made desserts are also offered. Customers can dine in, take out, order delivery or enjoy catering for parties and events.

For additional information about Moe’s Original BBQ, visit www.moesoriginalbbq.com.

WORLD OF COCA-COLA GIVES GUESTS THE VIP TREATMENT WITH ALL-NEW COKE INSIDER JOURNEY

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 3/29/21

Small-Group, Guided Tour Takes Fans Behind the Scenes at Atlanta Attraction

A new adventure awaits Coca-Cola fans and Atlanta explorers. For a limited time, World of Coca-Cola is launching Coke Insider Journey, a two-hour, VIP experience in which small groups of no more than 10 guests have the entire attraction to themselves. Offered on Saturdays and Sundays beginning April 3 through May 16, the premium, guided tour includes exclusive features and souvenirs tailored to fans who want to level-up their visit.

Behind the Bottle

As a dedicated guide leads Coke Insiders through the attraction, they encounter performers who lead special presentations and shows, such as a soda jerk demonstration and Olympic torch show-and-tell — all exclusive to the private tour. The guests also gain unprecedented access to the exhibits, including peeks into how the bottling line and beverage fountains operate. The premium offering is perfect for both returning guests who want to experience World of Coke in a new light and first-time visitors seeking an over-the-top inaugural trip.

Premium Perks

To commemorate the unique visit to World of Coca-Cola, Insiders receive complimentary items including a reusable cup filled with their favorite drink from Taste It!, a keepsake pin and printed and digital photos with the popular Coca-Cola Polar Bear. Guests also receive free parking, free coat check and an in-store discount to complete the VIP treatment.

Safety First

The health and safety of World of Coke’s guests and employees are of highest importance. Adjusted operations in compliance with guidelines from health and government authorities include: mandatory face coverings for everyone over the age of two, required social distancing, thermal temperature scans, enhanced cleaning routines throughout the attraction and timed tickets purchased online in advance.

Coke Insider Journey is ideal for those who want to enjoy all that World of Coca-Cola has to offer — and more — but feel more comfortable doing so in a smaller, more personal group.

Let’s Talk Tickets

Tickets for Coke Insider Journey are $50 per person or $500 to buy out the full, 10-person timeslot. Groups of less than 10 that do not buy out the full slot may be paired with other small groups for no more than 10 guests total. Tickets must be purchased online in advance.

About World of Coca-Cola

An integral part of downtown Atlanta’s fabric for more than 30 years, World of Coca-Cola has welcomed guests from six continents, more than 100 countries, all 50 U.S. states and the District of Columbia. Join over 25 million people who have visited the Atlanta attraction and experience the history of the world’s most famous beverage brand at the dynamic, multimedia home of the 134-year-old secret formula for Coca-Cola. Get closer than ever before to the vault containing the secret recipe, view more than 1,200 historic artifacts and get a behind-the-scenes look at the bottling process. Take a trip around the world in a thrilling 3-D movie experience, take a photo with the Coca-Cola Polar Bear and tempt your taste buds with beverages from around the globe.

World of Coca-Cola is located adjacent to Georgia Aquarium in downtown Atlanta and is accessible via the Peachtree Center or CNN/World Congress Center MARTA stations. Consumers with questions may call 1-800-676-COKE or visit our website at www.WorldofCocaCola.com to purchase tickets.

Corner Cafe and Buckhead Bread Company

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 3/27/21

As we drove down Piedmont into the heart of Buckhead, it had been a few years since we visited Corner Café and Buckhead Bread Company. The hustling breakfast and brunch spot has no lack of flavor and every dish they have is out-of-this world good!  They have dishes like these ‘Bananas Fosters’ Pancakes or Chicken and Waffles that will fill your syrup craving. Or if you’re into those not so sweet items, they have some of the best benedicts in Atlanta, starting with this Smoked Salmon Benny. Warning, this will make you hungry.

Upon arrival, we quickly got the Prosecco Sunrise that’s a twist on a traditional mimosa with your typical prosecco, orange juice, but they also add grenadine. We love the refreshing and balanced flavor, as well as how pretty the sip is! Speaking of sweet, Corner Café has a sassy Banana Fosters Pancake plate that are fluffy cakes topped with a delicate whipped cream, caramelized bananas, and macadamias. We loved the mix of earthy and hefty bananas served warm and sweet mixed with the delicate pancakes and perfectly sweet syrup. Make sure to slather as much syrup on it and let it soak into the cakes, dessert for breakfast or brunch is the way to go!

John turned to me and said he really enjoyed the Chicken and Waffles. Crispy chicken with gooey cheddar cheese on top, they started out crunchy and sharp and then the waffle hits the palate for a little bit of sweet, as well as the bacon for a meatiness. The best part was the spicy chili syrup that gave the whole dish a ZING. Pro tip: dip all the bacon in the spicy syrup and you’ve got candied bacon!! These have to be one of the best chicken and waffles in the city.

Whatever you do, make sure you get the Smoked Salmon Benedict! Now, THIS is how you benny. Boasting smoked salmon atop a potato cake and smothered in egg and sauce, it almost like a lox bagel and Benedict combined into one dish! With the salty and savory salmon pairing with the savory egg, brightness of the hollandaise, and the creaminess of the potato it was one tasty number. I decided these are my absolute favorite benedict in Atlanta. These are a must try when you go to Corner Café.

As the brunch rush began to slow and we chatted with the staff, we just love how warm and inviting Corner Café is from the staff to the management and how they made our experience worth every calorie. We can’t say enough good things about this spot.

EASTER ROUND-UP 2021

Posted by Liz and John, 3/24/21

Check-out all the Easter Day Offerings for 2021

Make Easter Eggstra Special at TWO urban licks:
TWO urban licks is celebrating Easter on Sunday, April 4th, with a family-friendly brunch and dinner. From 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., brunch-goers can enjoy the holiday with specials created by acclaimed Executive Chef Matt Weinstein.  Fried Chicken Biscuit, French Toast, TWO breakfast, Chicken Salad Melt, and many more enticing entrées are on the menu. Imbibers can wake up to a Morning Irishman, sip on a refreshing Elder Rosa, or swirl a glass Mt. Beautiful Pinot Gris. For those looking to satisfy their sweet tooth, TWO’s dessert menu is guaranteed to impress with a Peanut Butter Pie, Chocolate Creme Brûlée, or Tres Leches Cupcake. From 6 p.m. to 10 p.m., diners can start the evening with the confit turkey wings, smoked fried ribs, or dive right into the scallops, rotisserie chicken, or blackened salmon.  TWO is located at 820 Ralph McGill Boulevard in Atlanta, GA and serves dinner seven nights a week and brunch on Saturday and Sunday.  Reservations are recommended. For more information or to make reservations call 404.522.4622 or visit twourbanlicks.com.
Easter Sunday Brunch at Dantanna’s:
An annual tradition, brunch lovers are invited to indulge in Dantanna’s eggstra special Easter Brunch offerings. On Sunday, April 4th, guests can celebrate the holiday where eggs will be the star of the show and choose from an array of dishes created by Executive Chef Brad Parker. Indulgences include a build-your-own omelet station; a surf and turf Benedict featuring a mouthwatering filet topped with poached eggs and lobster hollandaise; huevos rancheros with house-made chorizo, black beans and smoked gouda topped with sunny side up poached eggs and pico de gallo; Heaven on Turf, prime New York strip with a demi-glace and two cloud eggs; and much more.  Available for dine-in only.  Guests can also choose from Dantanna’s extensive wine, cocktail, and beer list. Dantanna’s is located at the Shops Around Lenox, 3400 Around Lenox Dr. Suite 304, Atlanta, GA 30326. For more information or to make a reservation visit ww.dantannas.com or call 404-760-8873.
Hop Over to STK Atlanta This Easter: 
Known for  its  high-energy atmosphere and exceptional, signature and  seasonal offerings, STK Atlanta is celebrating Easter with a weekend filled with special, chef-driven offerings that are sure to impress.  Beginning Friday, April 2nd through Sunday, April 4th, not to miss, classic brunch favorites like the STK & Eggs, Cinnamon French Toast, and Hot Chicken & Waffles will be available along with a Ham, Egg & Truffle Fries entrée. Whether it’s brunch or dinner, guests can indulge in an array of holiday, dine-in options created by Executive Chef Andra Montobbio including King Crab Deviled Eggs, Roasted Rack of Lamb, and a Rocky Road Chocolate Fudge Brownie made with toasted hazelnut, marshmallow and Easter eggs. Just for dinner, Honey Citrus Glazed Ham featuring grilled giant shrimp, almond green beans, Brussels sprout coleslaw and parmesan mashed potatoes will steal the show. For those looking to enjoy an Easter meal at home, along with the full menu, STK will have Honey Citrus Glazed Ham for two with almond green beans, Brussels sprout coleslaw, parmesan crusted mashed potatoes and a Rocky Road Chocolate Fudge Brownie for $85 and a single serving for $45 that is available for takeout and delivery. The Midtown hotspot is open on Friday from 11 a.m. to 12:30 a.m. and will be open for Easter brunch on Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and dinner from 3 p.m. until close.  For more information, to make a reservation or to place an order, visit  www.stkhouse.com, STKsteakhouse.com/Delivery, or call 404-793-0144.
Celebrate Easter at Kona Grill:
Kona Grill is celebrating Easter with brunch and dinner festivities on Sunday, April 4, 2021. Easter Brunch will be featuring mix n’ match mimosa specials, Spicy Lobster Avocado Toast, Macadamia Nut French Toast and more.  Brunch enthusiasts can also enjoy the dine-in Honey Ham Brunch including grilled honey glazed ham with breakfast potatoes and three eggs.  The Easter Ham Dinner will be available all day and includes grilled honey glazed ham with whipped mashed potatoes and roasted root vegetables with truffle oil.  Seafood lovers are invited to explore the Lemongrass Clam Chowder with bacon, onion, lemongrass, ginger, clams, coconut milk and lime, and Lobster Potstickers with asparagus and lobster butter. To top off the Easter feast, satisfy sweet tooth cravings with Kona’s heavenly Carrot Cake. Ham Dinner for Two is available for $70 for takeout. For reservations, visit KonaGrill.com/Easter or to place an order, visit KonaGrill.com/Delivery. Kona Grill is located at 5100 Avalon Blvd, Alpharetta, GA 30009.  For more information or to make a reservation, visit www.konagrill.com/alpharetta or call 470-226-1540

Saint Germain Bakery’s Easter Chocolates & Baked Goods – This Easter, the Ponce City Market bakery is selling festive sweet treats, including Milk Chocolate Bunny Rabbits ($4, $10), Eggs with vanilla mousse, mango crémeux, almond dacquoise ($6.25) and a Bumble Bee Pastry with honey mousse, lemon curd and almond paste wings ($6.25). Curbside pickup and delivery available, and advance orders can be placed by calling 404-790-9051 or emailing info@stgermainbakery.com.

Lazy Betty’s Easter Brunch, 10am-4pm – This Easter, Lazy Betty will offer a five-course brunch tasting menu for the first time ever featuring new dishes made with elevated ingredients. The menu will be $125 per person, and beverage pairings will be available for $80 each. Brunch reservations are now available via Resy.

Hampton + Hudson’s Easter Meals, Available To-Go & for Dine-In – This Easter, the Inman Park community bar and restaurant is offering two options for the holiday:

  • Easter Brunch To-Go – Customers can “build your own” meal to go, featuring Deviled Eggs, Coca-Cola Glazed Ham, a choice of two sides (Potatoes Au Gratin, Mac n’ Cheese, Shrimp & Grits, Breakfast Casserole, Oven Roasted Brussels Sprouts, Sauteed Green Beans or Grilled Asparagus), Cornbread with honey butter or Buttermilk Biscuits, and Carrot Cake. The meal is $45 for two people or $90 for four, and guests can opt to add bubbly, OJ, grapefruit juice or Easter Punch. Pre-orders are due before April 1 on H+H’s website here.

  • Easter Brunch & Dinner for Dine-In – Hampton + Hudson will be open for brunch from 10am-2:30pm on Easter Sunday and offering a $20 mimosa special (one bottle of prosecco with a carafe of OJ) and beer special (Monday Night Brewing’s Dust Bunny IPA for $5) to pair. For dinner, the menu will include an Easter special, with Deviled Eggs, Coca-Cola Glazed Ham, Mac ‘n Cheese, Brussels Sprouts and Cornbread, plus Carrot Cake for dessert. Reservations are not required, but suggested, by emailing events@hamptonandhudson.

An Italian Easter from Baffi Provisions – Baffi Provisions, a market that affords guests and locals the opportunity to bring home the flavors, ingredients and select prepared foods from Chef Jonathan Waxman’s new West Midtown restaurant, is the perfect place to gather ingredients for an Italian Easter meal. Open Tuesday through Saturday beginning at 2pm, the market offers housemade fresh pasta (fettuccine, chive & ricotta manicotti), sauces and dressings like pork ragu, marinara, salsa verde and mint & pine nut pesto; eggplant caponata; smoked trout dip; kale salad kits; and braised pork & veal meatballs; and whipped ricotta, among other items. Customers can pre-order items here for in-restaurant or curbside pickup, or shop in person with a mask. Please note, planning ahead is encouraged as the restaurant is closed on Sunday, April 4 (Easter).

Now Available – Georgetown Cupcake Easter Dozens

Georgetown Cupcake’s assorted Easter dozens are back! Customers can choose from the Limited Edition Easter Egg Dozen featuring 12 different flavors packed in a limited edition pink Easter egg gift box; the Easter Celebration Dozen, which includes six Easter nest cupcakes and six tulip cupcakes; and the Hoppy Easter Dozen, including six vanilla confetti bunny face cupcakes and six Easter egg hunt chocolate cupcakes. Check out options and place orders here.

Varuni Napoli Cannoli Easter Cannoli Kits

Each cannoli kit includes the shells, cream, and toppings (chocolate chips, sprinkles, pistachios and Nutella) needed to make a delicious, authentic Italian treat. The 6-pack cannoli kit is $30 and the 12-pack cannoli kit is $50. People can call 404-709-2690 to order and pick up at Varuni’s Midtown location. 24-hour notice is required.

ANNOUNCING THE 2021 EAT DRINK RELAX EVENT SCHEDULE – ATLANTA AND NE!

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 3/24/21

Coming to a city near you!

We are excited to announce the 2021 Drink Eat Relax Events Schedule!  The Pandemic has presented many challenges over the past year and we are optimistic and excited about getting back to producing events for our guests.

2021 Schedule

Beer Bourbon & BBQ Festivals:                                                   

www.beerandbourbon.com                                    

  Tysons, VA – May 22                                                                                 

  Richmond, VA – June 12                                                                                                                

  Tampa, FL – June 19                                                            

  Charlotte, NC  – July 24                                                                                                                                                   

  Brooklyn, NY – July 31 & August 1                                             

  Cary, NC – September 10 & 11                                        

  Atlanta, GA – September 18

  Timonium, MD – October 29 & 30                                   

  Wilmington, NC –  November 13  

Wine & Food Festivals:

Vintage Virginia Wine & Food – June 5

www.vintagevirginia.com

Wine & Food Festivals Continued:

www.uncorkthefun.com

   Baltimore, MD – August 7

   National Harbor, DC – September 25 & 26   

   Charlotte, NC – October 2                                                   

Tacos ‘N Taps Festivals:

www.tacosntaps.com

  Raleigh, NC (previously Cary) – June 26

  Baltimore, MD – August 21

Chesapeake Crab Wine & Beer Festivals:                                                  

www.crabwinebeer.com

  Baltimore, MD – August 7                                                 

  National Harbor, DC – August 14 

Das Best Oktoberfest – October 16            

www.mdoktoberfest.com

A Portion of All Proceeds Benefit:

The Spirit of HopeChildren’s Foundation is a non-profit 501c3 organization formed and operated for the purpose of providing support and promoting education for children and adults with a mental or physical disability.

For more information on purchasing tickets for any of the 2021 Drink Eat Relax Events, please visit www.drinkeatrelax.com or call 800-830-3976.

IMAGINE MUSIC FESTIVAL ANNOUNCES OFFICIAL LINEUP FOR 2021 EVENT

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 3/24/21

Lineup to Feature: Excision, GRiZ, Illenium, Kaskade + 2nd Pool Party Set, Gryffin, Madeon, Fisher + Catch and Release Takeover, Liquid Stranger + Wakaan Takeover, Adventure Club B2B Riot Ten, Black Tiger Sex Machine, Champagne Drip B2B Luzcid, Ghastly B2B Joyryde, Kayzo B2B Subtronics, Peekaboo, Shpongle Droid (Simon Posford Live, featuring Android Jones), Subtronics (“Wooked on Tronics” Set), and over 40 more artists.
 
Seventh Annual Event to Take Place at Bouckaert Farm in Chattahoochee Hills, September 17 – 19, 2021
After a challenging 2020 that derailed festivals globally, the world is finally ready to dance again. Imagine Festival organizers are excited for the festival’s comeback September 17 – 19, 2021, and today are releasing the official 2021 lineup.  Tickets go on sale March 23rd at 1.00 pm EST. Earlier this year, the festival also revealed the big news that it would be moving locations to the breathtaking Bouckaert Farm in the City of Chattahoochee Hills, Georgia. This new chapter for Imagine allows endless potential for a more immersive experience. Guests will now feel the embrace of Mother Nature while bathing in the forest and enjoying the magic of Imagine Festival.
Loaded with massive B2B sets and record label takeovers, the lineup for 2021 includes Excision; Illenium; Kaskade; Gryffin; Madeon; 3LAU; Adventure Club B2B Riot Ten; Black Tiger Sex Machine, Blunts & Blondes, Carnage B2B Borgore; CharlestheFirst; Clozee; Dabin; Dion Timmer; Ghost Rydr (Ghastly B2B Joyryde); Kasbo; Kayzo B2B Subtronics; Liquid Stranger; Peekaboo; Subtronics (“Wooked on Tronics” set); Shpongle Droid (Simon Posford Live, featuring Android Jones); Virtual Riot B2B Barely Alive. The Disco Inferno stage will feature Fisher with the Catch & Release Takeover and including Lee Foss; Malaa; Shiba San; Walker & Royce; John Summit; Noizu; Sidepiece; SNBRN; VNSSA; Dillon Nathaniel; Deeper Purpose; LP Giobbi; Subrinse, and Westend. The Wakaan Takeover will feature Liquid Stranger; Champagne Drip B2B Luzcid; Shlump; G-Rex; Esseks; Sully; Mize, and a Wakaan Family B2B set. Other artists joining the Imagine lineup: Abelation; Alber-K; Blackgummy; Brondo; Corrupt UK; Devault; Dieselboy; Eddie Gold; Joyce Muniz; Kaivon; Laser Assassins; Leah Culver; Lick, Mersiv; Moore Kismet; No Mana; Of the Trees, and Reaper. Local and regional support, along with much more detail of activities and surprises, will be released along our journey to the gates opening to Imagine. Stay tuned.
Also returning in 2021 is an even bigger Imagine Festival Daytime Pool Party where Kaskade will heat up the decks for fans as part of his second set of the festival.
“The diversity and special B2Bs make this one of the most exciting lineups to date. We are putting together an experience we hope will help relieve some of the pain we have felt over this past year- nature is now our ultimate special guest. I get chills thinking about the moments we will share again,” says Imagine Festival co-founder, Glenn Goodhand.
3-day General Admission passes are available starting at on $35 down. GA passes start at $269 and VIP passes with express entry into the festival, commemorative VIP wristband, exclusive viewing areas, VIP bars, and lounges, and private air-conditioned VIP trailer restrooms start at $399 for a 3-day pass, before fees. 2-pack bundles and camping options are also available. Payment plans are now available all tickets types. Tickets are available online at www.imaginefestival.com. Imagine Music Festival is an 18 and over event.
Imagine Music Festival is produced by Iris Presents. Visit www.imaginefestival.com for the most up-to-date information. Fans can stay connected for updates on Instagram at www.instagram.com/imaginemusicfestival, Twitter at www.twitter.com/imaginemusicfes, and Facebook at www.facebook.com/imaginemusicfestival.

PONCE CITY MARKET ANNOUNCES SPRING HAPPENINGS 2021

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 3/24/21

PCM Goes Inside Out – a Festive Series Bringing the Best of PCM Outside – Returns Saturday, April 3

Plus, Ponce City Farmers Market Opens for the Season on March 24, RoleCall Theater Presents High School Musical Theater Showcase this April & May, & More

Ponce City Market announces upcoming happenings taking place throughout the spring. Amid COVID-19, Ponce City Market is adhering to health and safety guidelines, including requiring guests to wear facemasks in the Central Food Hall; requiring property staff to wear face coverings at all times; providing social distancing signage and hand sanitizer throughout the property; and cleaning and sanitizing the property regularly.

PCM Goes Inside Out (Every Other Saturday Beginning April 3, Starting at Noon) – With warmer weather upon us, PCM Goes Inside Out is back! Kicking off on Saturday, April 3, the series will bring the best of PCM outdoors every other Saturday through December. Starting at noon, visitors will enjoy a variety of exciting happenings as PCM Goes Inside Out brings favorites to The Courtyard and Yard where guests can safely relax and spend some time enjoying food and drink from PCM restaurants, music, yard games and family fun.

Ponce City Farmers Market (Wednesdays Beginning March 24, 4-8pm) – Honoring Community Farmers Markets’ commitment to farmers, vendors and community, Ponce City Farmers Market (PCFM) will open for the season on Wednesday, March 24 with COVID-19 safety protocols in place, including requiring face masks. The producer-only market will be held from 4-8pm every Wednesday through November at The Shed, the covered outdoor space alongside Ponce City Market’s entrance to the Atlanta BeltLine.

Ponce City Farmers Market offers fresh produce, artisan products, handmade crafts, goods for the home and body, and more from an average of 30 rotating vendors per week. Market-goers can take home organic produce from Cosmos Farm and Partnership Farm, baked goods from Martha’s Boy Bakeshop and Sweet Lola’s, kombucha from Cultured South and Figment Kombucha, natural body care from Vibrational Living, Helena Kai and SugarMelon Handmade Cosmetics, green cleaning supplies from Squeaky Green Cleaning Co and much more. Throughout the season, the market will also feature special events, arts and crafts and visits from goats.

Each vendor accepts credit cards, while some additionally take payments via Venmo, CashApp, PayPal and Apple Pay. SNAP/EBT dollars are accepted at qualifying vendors. Through the Georgia Fresh For Less program, PCFM will also match the dollar amount of any SNAP swiped. When shoppers spend $10 in SNAP, they will get $10 for free to spend on fresh, local fruits and vegetables.

Guests may access the market via the Atlanta BeltLine or from Ponce City Market. Parking on the third floor of Ponce City Market’s parking deck (accessible via the ramp to the right of Pancake Social) is the most convenient access point to the farmer’s market via the BeltLine Tressel.

Start to Finish Art & Home Showcase (April 2, 3-8pm & April 3-4, 2-7pm) – The Print Shop by FreeMarket Gallery will host Start to Finish, an interactive art and home showcase, from April 2-4, 2021 at Ponce City Market. Located at The Plaza, next to The Shed and alongside the Atlanta BeltLine’s Eastside Trail, the collaborative exhibit will feature artwork by Adelaide Tai and the start-to-finish process of creating complex, large-format artwork. Art from Yoyo Ferro, Jonny Warren, Aliya Smith, Angie Jezez, Aesek, Chris Veal and more, plus home furnishings and decor from Ponce City Market shops like SustainAble Home Goods and The Victorian, will also be available for viewing and purchase.

RoleCall Presents The RoleCall High School Musical Theater Showcase (Throughout April & May 2021, Noon & 3pm) – Created to highlight the best young actors and singers in the state of Georgia, The RoleCall High School Musical Showcase will feature shows from five metro Atlanta high school theatre groups, including Buford High School, West Forsyth High School, Lambert High School, Tri-Cities High School and Denmark High School. Each school will perform two distinct outdoor shows at The Amphitheater at Ponce City Market at noon and 3pm. Information on show dates and tickets ($15 per show or $25 for both) can be found here. A portion of ticket sales will be given to each participating school. For RoleCall Theatre’s full lineup, including details on their popular Laugh Out Loud…Outside (LOLo) series, please click here.

WITH LOVE – A Solo Art Exhibit by Jeremy Brown at The Plaza (May 1-2, Noon-8pm) – Atlanta-based, contemporary visual artist Jeremy Brown will hold his first solo exhibition in over five years at The Plaza, next to The Shed and alongside the Atlanta BeltLine’s Eastside Trail. Titled WITH LOVE, the collection will include 30+ new, mixed media works exploring the universal concepts of identity, unity, longing and the pursuit of happiness. Brown’s multilayered set includes his signature use of bold colors, loose brushwork and a dynamic blend of actual and implied textures. His art also includes text lifted directly from his personal notes and journals. WITH LOVE is an expression of Brown’s unique visual language inspired by spirituality, philosophy, music, poetry, fashion and the human experience.

Buttermilk Kitchen plus Milkdrop Biscuits

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 3/22/21

The southern charm of the cottage on Roswell Road near Chastain Park pulls you in from the street with the smell of fresh baked biscuits and the chatter of families standing out in the parking lot, laughing, and talking after an amazing meal. Buttermilk Kitchen is one of Atlanta’s well-known brunch, breakfast, and lunch spots and after tasting a few things from the menu, we know why. Everything from the Friday special, Ray’s Waffle Burger, to chicken biscuit to the boozy fried chicken and waffles to the gooey grits bowl and rounding out the meal with some fresh cut Benton’s bacon and the cornbread loaf; we were in brunch heaven.

Let’s kick this off with the Cornbread Loaf and Grits Bowl. The Cornbread Loaf itself is a heart and dense bread with a light crisp on the edges. Buttermilk Kitchen puts it with a fantastic honey spread that’s sweet and a creamy butter that adds so much extra flavor to the loaf. A great bite before you get the rest of your breakfast! One of the dishes we tried was the Grits Bowl. It’s a flavor extravaganza with hearty, creamy, and cheesy pimento cheese grits stuffed with savory chicken sausage, tangy tomatoes, earthy spinach, and topped with a runny egg. All together we mixed it up and it was creamy and sharp with hints of savor, earthiness, and tang. Make sure to get all the ingredients in one bite!

Of the main dishes we really enjoyed the Chicken and Waffles and Chicken Biscuit.  The Chicken Biscuit has the perfect harmony of crispy and juicy chicken, buttery and fluffy biscuit, and tangy and slightly spicy jam.  It starts out crispy and savory with hints of butter juxtaposed to the spicy and sweet of the jam that kicks up the flavor. This was Liz’s favorite with all that sassy flavor! Our pro tip is to take some of the pickles they put on the side and add them to the sandwich. It adds some salt and tang!

John’s favorite was the Chicken and Waffles. They start out with a buttery, sweet, and gooey waffle with a slight crisp on the ends. Then, on top is some very tender, juicy, and crispy fried chicken left on the bone to give it a little more dep flavor. The best part has to be the maple syrup that’s mixed with whiskey for a sweet and tangy up front and a boozy bite on the back of the palate. It elevates all the flavors of the waffles and chicken and ends up in an explosion of taste.

We also were excited to sample the Ray’s Waffle Burger that’s only available on Fridays! It’s fantastic with a mix of stuffed cheeseburger topped with Benton’s amazing crisp and hearty bacon, a maple aioli and waffle buns. The burger is cheesy, sharp, and savory and mixes so well with the crisp bacon, the sweet aioli, and the crispy, buttery waffle. Whatever you do, get some of the maple syrup that goes with the chicken and waffles to add to this. WOW! That’s amazing with it! The whiskey forward syrup goes perfectly with the savory of the beef and bacon.

Is there a dish that sticks out to you?

Milkdrop Biscuits

Did you know that Chef Suzanne Vizethann recently launched a pop-up, Milkdrop Biscuits, where you can get an array of fun, savory, sweet, biscuit concoctions? Next door to Buttermilk Kitchen, they are for pick-up on select Saturdays only and sells out during the week before, so you know they must be good. We tried the Chefie’s Snack with Golden Arches(2), Hot’lanta, and Not Your Momma’s Sausage. These hearty biscuit sandwiches definitely hit that Saturday morning spot!

Speaking about the biscuit itself is crisp on the outside and perfectly flaky and light on the inside. Plus, the right amount of butter to add that buttery finish. We have to say, sorry mom, Not Your Momma’s Sausage, is better. Imagine that biscuit mentioned with a sweet jam, savory and floral sausage, whipped eggs, and slathered in cheese. Being a fan of the McMuffin with egg, there is no comparison, hands down this biscuit is the new king. Sweet, savory, sharp and buttery.

Of all the biscuits, Golden Arches was Liz’s favorite. This one has this crazy good, smoky bacon that pairs PERFECTLY with the soft and buttery biscuit, sharp cheese, and creamy egg. It’s smoky with hints of butter, sharpness, and savory egg and Chef Vizethann told us that bacon fat is on the biscuit. Must try. What’s a biscuit spot without a chicken biscuit? The Hot’lanta Biscuit is crispy, perfectly fried and juicy chicken sandwiches between two fluffy biscuits. Don’t mess with this one, the heat grows as you eat and it’s the perfect mix of spice, savory, and buttery biscuit.

What do you want to try?

DINING OUT FOR LIFE 2021: APRIL 26-MAY 2

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 3/22/21

Open Hand encourages the community to dine-in, take out and give back in support of local restaurants during Dining Out For Life, April 26-May 2

Open Hand Atlanta continues to support local restaurants with the return of its annual Dining Out For Life fundraising event, presented by Manhattan Associates. Local Atlanta diners are encouraged to safely dine-in or enjoy take-out, curbside pick-up or delivery from April 26 – May 2. The week-long Dining Out For Life will drive donations for Open Hand’s nutritional programs and services.

“The critically ill, disabled and homebound are at the greatest risk when it comes to this virus. Our programs are on the front lines every day with a laser-focused commitment to keeping the most vulnerable populations safe and nourished with meals they rely on for survival,” said Executive Director Matt Pieper. “Dining Out For Life is integral to providing the necessary funds to respond to the increase in demand for home-delivered meals since the start of this pandemic. Simultaneously, this event supports our restaurant partners who have remained as dedicated as we are to serving Open Hand’s mission over the years.”

For almost 30 years, thousands of locals have dined out for breakfast, lunch and dinner knowing that participating restaurants were donating a portion of their bill to help Open Hand provide nearly 5,000 nutritious meals daily and empower neighbors battling chronic disease and disability to live healthier, more independent lives. The organization has refocused its efforts to a hybrid event in hopes of joining the community together to dine in or take out and support the restaurant partners that have been loyal and dedicated to Open Hand over the last three decades. Locals can find the ever-growing list of participating restaurant partners here.

This year to support Open Hand, restaurants are giving what donations they can and Open Hand is encouraging restaurant-goers to consider donating on their behalf. No matter how large or small, funds raised during Dining Out For Life supports Open Hand’s life-saving, nutritional services of preparing, packing and delivering nourishing meals to those most vulnerable. This year’s returning restaurants include Atlanta favorites such as Arnette’s Chop Shop, Varuni Napoli, Eclipse di Luna, The General Muir, Local Three, ROXX Tavern, Table & Main and West Egg Café.

Ways to Support Open Hand:

  • Donate to Open Hand online at donate.openhandatlanta.org/ge/dofl
  • Connect with Open Hand via Facebook, Twitter and Instagram and share posts, information and more.
  • Enjoy restaurant dine-in, take-out, curbside pick-up or delivery from April 26 – May 2. Post about the experience using #diningoutforoh.

“Open Hand has served the most vulnerable in metro Atlanta for decades, and with the challenges presented by the pandemic, community support is needed now more than ever,” commented Kathleen Creech, Chief People Officer of Manhattan Associates. “We’re honored to be the 2021 presenting sponsor of Open Hand’s annual fundraiser, Dining Out For Life, and encourage the community to participate.”

For more information on Dining Out For Life and Open Hand, as well as to stay up-to-date on events and volunteer opportunities, please visit www.diningoutforoh.org and www.openhandatlanta.org or connect via Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.