Tag Archive for: adventures in atlanta

WINE AND DINE YOUR VALENTINE AT CITY WINERY ATLANTA

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 2/2/20

Atlanta’s Only Urban Winery Presents a Special Three-Course Prix Fixe Dinner and ATL Collective’s Reliving of Sade’s Love Deluxe on the Sweetest Day of the Year

Friday, February 14, 2020

This Valentine’s Day, February 14, 2020, couples and singles alike are invited to visit City Winery Atlanta at Ponce City Market for an unforgettable experience celebrating the sweetest day of the year. The popular urban winery, restaurant and live music venue is hosting a special three-course prix fixe dinner in the Barrel Room Restaurant and Wine Bar for just $40 with hand selected wine pairings by resident winemaker Travis Green for an additional $20.

An ideal gift, City Winery will also have its 2017 Rose of Syrah featuring a special Valentine’s Day label on sale now (available onsite) through Valentine’s day for $20.

Music lovers can also enjoy an intimate performance as ATL Collective Relives Sade’s Love Deluxe.  Tickets are sold out, but wait list signups are still available. For the first show, doors open at 6 p.m. and the show begins at 7 p.m. For the late show, doors open at 9:30 p.m. and the show begins at 10 p.m. For more information, to purchase tickets, or to make a dinner reservation for Valentine’s Day, visit www.citywinery.com/atlanta or call 404-946-3791.

~ City Winery’s Valentine’s Day Menu ~

First Course

Pan de Baguette
Marinated Heirloom Tomato, Aged Balsamic Vinaigrette

Or

Baked Mussels
Grated Parmesan, Panko, Herb Blend

Second Course

Cajun Butter Ribeye
Rapini, Saffron Rice

Or

Lobster Mac ‘N Cheese
Gruyere Bechamel, Elbow

Or

Poulet Roti
½ Roasted Chicken, Seasonal Vegetables, Fingerling Potatoes

Or

Cavatappi Alla Putcanesca
Olive, Anchovy, Caper, Garlic, Tomato

Third Course

Red Velvet Skillet Cookie
Maple Bourbon Ice Cream, Whipped Topping

Or

Caramel Pecan Sticky Bun

WAHLBURGERS ATLANTA ANNOUNCES GRAND OPENING DATE

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 2/2/20

The burger-forward casual dining restaurant opens city’s second location on February 4, 2020

Wahlburgers has announced that its highly anticipated restaurant in Atlanta at Peachtree Street will open Tuesday, February 4 at 11 a.m. The new restaurant and bar will be the brand’s second restaurant in Atlanta, with the first located at The Battery. The 5,550-square-foot restaurant is located at the corner of Andrew Young and Peachtree (218 Peachtree Street, Atlanta GA 30303) and will be open daily for lunch and dinner.

The popular casual dining burger concept founded by brothers Mark, Donnie and Chef Paul Wahlberg (which recently wrapped 10 successful seasons as A&E Network’s Emmy-nominated reality show) will give Atlanta fans another opportunity to enjoy its diverse lineup of crave-worthy burgers, sandwiches, sides and specialty drinks from its chef-inspired kitchen.

“We have fallen in love with Georgia and its people as they have been so welcoming to our family. We are truly looking forward to bringing our second location to the state as we open our doors on Peachtree in Atlanta,” said Mark Wahlberg.

Created by Executive Chef Paul Wahlberg, the chef-inspired menu features an emphasis on made-to-order, high-quality, delicious food that represents a selection of his family’s favorite dishes they shared together. The brothers’ favorite burgers include:

  • Donnie’s choice: BBQ Bacon Burger, described as a “spiced-up weekend barbecue on a bun,” topped with white cheddar cheese, bacon, avocado, fresh jalapeños and barbecue sauce
  • Mark’s choice: Thanksgiving Day, “like Thanksgiving leftovers on a bun,” made with fresh ground seasoned turkey, stuffing, Paul’s housemade orange-cranberry sauce, roasted butternut squash and mayo
  • Paul’s choice: Wahlburger’s signature Our Burger with lettuce, tomato, onion, government cheese, Paul’s signature Wahl sauce and pickles “just like Dad used to grill in the backyard”

“Each of our openings here have been really special for us,” said franchise owner Nino Cutraro. “The continued love and support from our guests has been overwhelming, and we are thrilled to add another Wahlburgers to the state of Georgia.”

Wahlburgers’ full-service bar is a perfect gathering spot offering an impressive selection of cocktails, wines and beers including the signature Wahlbrewski: A Boston-based Harpoon Brewery custom, unfiltered Pale Ale. In addition, Wahlburgers is well-known for its dessert selections, most notably its frappes, made with farm fresh milk and local ice cream, available in several delicious flavors.

The location hours will be Sunday – Thursday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Friday – Saturday from 11 a.m. to 12 a.m. Learn more online, including details about menu offerings, at Wahlburgers.com.

A SPANISH VALENTINE’S AT BULLA

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 2/2/20

Thursday, February 13th at 7 pm

Wine and dine with that special someone. Bulla Gastrobar is bringing Spain to your table with this paella and sangría making class for two! This special event hosted by Bulla’s Executive Chef on Thursday, Feb. 13 from 7-9:30 and includes class, dinner, toast and a limited edition Bulla branded apron.

This event will make for a unique experience and a Valentine’s date that you won’t soon forget. Reserve your spot today!
Cost is $200 per couple.
Tickets and more information can be found here.

CITY WINERY ATLANTA’S FEBRUARY EVENTS CELEBRATE BLACK HISTORY MONTH

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 2/2/20

CITY WINERY’S OBSERVANCE OF BLACK HISTORY MONTH
Celebration of Culinary Artisan Events features African-American Chefs and Wineries

 
City Winery celebrates the achievements of the African-American community this February for Black History Month with food and beverage events curated by Beverage Director James Brim. Brim himself is a trailblazer in a growing number of African-American sommeliers and beverage directors in Atlanta.

City Winery’s Celebration of Culinary Artisans ft. Edna Lewis’ “The Taste of Country Cooking” on Saturday, February 15th celebrates the life and achievements of the late Edna Lewis. Edna Lewis was an African-American author and chef, renowned for her traditional Southern cooking that emphasized fresh and locally grown foods. Towards the end of her career, Lewis relocated to Decatur, GA, where she spent the rest of her days. The South’s answer to Julia Child, Edna Lewis has inspired an entire generation of African-American chefs. Her life and impact will be celebrated at City Winery for Black History Month. Chef Vawanda Richardson will prepare an interpretation of the fresh taste of early spring, served family style and paired with wines from African-American producers.
7 p.m. start, 9 p.m. end. Tickets $75 plus applicable fees.

On Saturday, February 29th, City Winery hosts a Celebration of Culinary Artisans: Vertamae Smart Grosvenor “Vibration Cooking, or Tales of a Geechee Girl”. Vertamae Smart Grosvenor was a world-renowned author, performer, and chef. Born in South Carolina in 1937, Vertamae was strongly influenced by her Gullah Geechee community. Having befriended some of the most influential artists, writers, actors, and musicians of the twentieth century, Vertamae held a treasure trove of stories about her experiences  with people like novelist and poet Maya Angelou, and jazz musician Hugh Masekala. The dinner will be with wines from African-American producers paired with the dinner.
7 p.m. start, 10 p.m. end. Tickets $75 plus applicable fees.

Tickets are available online at citywinery.com/atlanta or by calling 404-946-3791.

Der Biergarten: Gluhwein and a Side of Sauerkraut

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 1/16/19

Move over hot sauce, there’s a new elevated condiment in town, Sauerkraut! We made our way downtown to visit Der Biergarten to taste their German-centric fare and sip on their holiday cocktails. From affordable and delicious meat and cheese plates (Gemischte Wurst Und Käseplatte) to a perfectly cooked pork shank (Schweinshaxe) to something we never knew we loved, Sauerkraut, as well as a hot holiday drink tradition Glühwein, Der Biergarten is an immersive German experience in the heart of Atlanta. Ready for an adventure?

Starting with the sips, being during the holidays, they had everything form a spicy cocoa, red beer in a take-home boot, and our favorite find of the night: Glühwein. This traditional winter and holiday drink from Germany that drinks like a hot Sangria, a mix of red wine and spices. It was warm on the cold night and totally different than anything we’ve had before, with the savory, sweet of the red wine and earthiness of the clove spice on the back end. It doesn’t sound like something we’d ever like but surprised us! Along with a great selection of German bier, wine, and fun cocktails, try something new!

Who doesn’t like a good meat and cheese plate? This one was chocked full of jaeger, which is a German dry-aged traditional sausage, hard cheeses, plus a lot of bread to pair it with. We felt this was a REALLY good deal for the price and John decided this was one of the best meat and cheese plates in the city. He knows; he’s a charcuterie fanatic. Also enjoyed the pretzel (Risenbretzel) which was buttery, salty, warm, and hearty. Make sure to use the mustards they bring, as well. Go sweet the with the Bavarian Mustard or spicy with the spicy Mustard. Either way, a good tasty bite.

Then there’s the pork shank. The way it was cooked, rotisserie style with skin on, locks in the flavor and tenderness of the meat, while interesting mix of spices like clove and an herb that taste of licorice, give the crust a rich, unique flavor. Mix it with the savory au jus and the side of sauerkraut. That hits the spot. Speaking of the sauerkraut, not typically a favorite, this was the best we’ve ever found with that typical sour vinegar flavor on the back but hidden for most of the bite by the utilization of bacon. Yes, bacon! It’s savory and sour and a good accoutrement to the savory of the pork. Insert mind blown emoji here.

Are you hungry yet? We are! Meet us down at Der Biergarten!

Bulla Gastrobar: Who Loves Sangria?

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 1/3/19

Cozy and warm in atmosphere, Bulla Gastropub has an expansive menu with a mix of fresh, light tapas to hearty large plates, as well as a hefty wine list and some of the best Sangria Blanca in Atlanta. We’d argue the best! When we went it was before Christmas, so they had decked out the tables with small poinsettias and bows, and a beautiful Christmas tree with tons of presents under it. Being in the festive spirit, let’s find out what there is to celebrate about the menu. Hint: it’s celebratory!

Being more of a white wine gal, I’ve been thinking about how much I really like Sangria. Leave it to Bulla to invite us to National Sangria Day to discover what is probably the best Sangria Blanca I’ve had in a very long time. John liked it too, but he’s more a beer drinker. From the bubble of the cava to the sweetness of the fresh fruit, this pretty lady drinks refreshing and cool. It’s a good, year-round sipper!

Starting with the tapas, the Lacon Al La Gallega is a smoked ham dish sliced very thin like a tartare topped with arugula, dressing, and potato dollops. It ate like a light salad, a very light bite with a ton of flavor and the meat adds salt and heft. Tip: Take the dollops and wrap them in the arugula and ham. It’s creamy, savory, and the right amount of salt. We also got a Charcuterie plate that consisted of Manchego and Murica Al Vino cheese, as well as Jamon Serrano (ham) and Lomo Iberico. They definitely have a great selection of meats and cheeses that come with olives, crisp bread, and candied nuts. Our favorite was the earthy, nutty, sweet, and sharp Manchego cheese that paired well with the cured pork loin (Lomo Iberico). A great little snack with the bread and nuts.

We thought we got the Salmon Carpaccio but in looking at what we got versus the menu, it looks like we got the 5 oz Salmon large plate. So, moving on to the Platos Fuertes the Salmon was paired with spinach, chickpeas, and a lemon cream. The meat itself was perfectly cooked at medium and topped with a cool lemon cream that added balance between the meat and the accompaniments. The spinach and chickpeas were crunchy and earthy and mixed well with the Salmon. Overall, a great bite.

The other large plate is what we always want to try every time we get to taste a menu: Lamb! Lamb is my (Liz’s) favorite meat and this one did not disappoint. The Lamb Chop itself was fall off the bone tender with a sweet and savory honey, thyme sauce. The sauce was delectable with what starts off as sweet to herbaceous of the thyme. So unique! Paired with charred kale, asparagus, and potato foam, a tasty bite with the meatiness of the lamb, creaminess of the potato foam, and earthiness of the charred kale, and brightness of the asparagus. So much flavor!

From the wonderful meal, to the coziness and warmness of the atmosphere, to the attentive staff, Bulla Gastropub is a great place to take friends and family for an intimate meal. You’ll enjoy it.

10TH ANNUAL NIKOLAUSTAG PARTY

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 12/13/19

Der Biergarten

Friday, December 20th at 5 pm

Join Der Biergarten on Friday, December 20th for their 10th annual Nikolaustag Party. Being held from 5 pm until Midnight, the festivities will include holiday drinks, music, games, Santa, and more! They have 10,000 ornaments, 72 nutcrackers, 48 stockings, 26 Christmas trees, 6 festive holiday cocktails all in 1 MERRY night! Find the Christmas pickles for a chance to win prizes! The event is free to attend, while food and drink can be purchased.

Check out their festive cocktails you can get now through 12/27:

NIGHT MARKET HOLIDAY EDITION 2019

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 11/25/19

COZY UP WITH COCKTAILS, BITES & SHOPPING AT DECEMBER’S NIGHT MARKET
Top Culinary Talent, Live Music and Artisan Vendors Return for Night Market’s Outdoor Holiday Edition

The Home Depot Back Yard

Thursday, December 5th 6pm

Next month at December’s Night Market, The Home Depot Backyard will be taken over by the smells, sounds and bright colors of a globally inspired market, featuring Atlanta’s top culinary talent, live music, and a colorful array of artisan vendors to kick off the holiday season. Crackling fire pits will invite guests to cozy up where they can enjoy the evening under the stars sipping cocktails and shopping the curated market for the perfect gift. Located in the heart of downtown Atlanta outside of Mercedes-Benz Stadium, the market offers visitors the chance to experience all the international feel and fun without the trouble of fitting their gifts and treats in their suitcase.

“On the heels of our most successful market to date, Night Market is delighted to welcome even more of Atlanta’s top chefs and one-of-a-kind artisan vendors for December. We wanted to create a festive twist this month and truly make it special for the holiday edition, making it a unique experience even for guests who have attended before,” said Latonda Henderson, Director of Community Activation at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. “Despite the open-air setting, the market maintains the same intimate feeling as if you were celebrating the holidays in your friend’s backyard.”

While sipping on holiday-inspired cocktails prepared by celebrated mixologists, Tiffanie Barriere and Kellie Thorn, guests will also be able to shop a unique selection of goods at the artisan market, curated by local favorite, Indie Craft Experience. Here they can spoil friends and family (or grab a little something for themselves) with unique finds from the market pop-up, all while supporting local businesses including Atlas Candle Co., Fox + Fern Botanicals, Paper & Piece, and more.

Visitors will have the opportunity to mingle with some of Atlanta’s top chefs and enjoy dishes from restaurants including American Cut, Brezza Cucina, Fox Bros Bar-B-Q, Hattie B’s, Hawkers Asian Street Fare, Holmes, Honeysuckle Gelato, Kyma, Shake Shack, Spotted Trotter, Sweet Auburn BBQ and Wheelies Tiny Donuts.

Free to attend. Food and beverage tickets are $25 in advance/$40 onsite and include tokens to sample 2 beverages and 3 food items. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit thehomedepotbackyard.com/night-market.

Ocean & Acre: Land and Sea Perfectly Paired

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 11/24/19

Land and Sea come together in perfect harmony up at Ocean & Acre in the Halcyon Forsyth complex! What really sets them apart is the innovative and truly unique menu offerings like ceviche with beets, wagyu beef carpaccio, lamb belly, and savory pork chops. If meat isn’t your thing, they have tons of fish, a take on fish and chips, oysters, and even more shellfish to choose from. Like we said, perfect harmony! Beyond this, we really enjoyed the medley of flavors that they paired together in each dish to make them remarkable. Ok, enough talk, let’s take a journey through their menu, sip on a cocktail, and sit by the fire. Come on in.

Starting with the raw bar, the Bass Ceviche was one of the most unique small plates we’ve ever had with light and flaky bass mixed with beets and in a beet vinaigrette. It was earthy, fresh, and light with every flavor you could imagine in such a simple dish. Yes, you must like beets, but they are perfectly cooked and are actually the perfect pair with the fish. Light and delicious.

Maintaining our foray into the lighter side of Ocean & Acre, we opted for the wagyu beef carpaccio. The most tender slice of tartar beef paired well with some oil, herbs, and a light whipped cheese. The best bite is to wrap up the beef, cheese, herbs, and oil and stuff it all in your mouth. Savory, creamy, light.

We took a turn from there into hearty with the Smoked Lamb Belly. The meat was fresh with very little game, a different take on a pork belly dish. What was truly amazing about this dish was the best side on Ocean & Acre’s menu: the polenta. We cannot sing the praises of this more! With the creamy polenta flavor up front then the tart and sweet of the craisins and raisins on the back it’s a savory sweet MASTERPIECE. Could. Not. Stop. Eating it. Great for the cold weather!

Our main course consisted of some of the most flavorful, savory pork chops we’ve had in a long time. Perfectly cooked with herbs and a hearty au jus, this chop was well, perfect. It comes with two, cooked onions to add flavor to the sauce, as well as mushrooms. Two people can share it, it’s that big. Suggestion: get the pork chop with a side of the polenta from the lamb belly dish. We ended up mixing them together and WOW. This is THE combination to try! Highly recommend.

Let’s not forget their drink menu which had a good mix of classics and signature sips to try. The one we like the best was Barracuda. It’s their drink of the week this week, November 22nd 2019 through the Thanksgiving. They have an in-house infuser and backed it with habanero, blood orange and tequila. They paired this with crème de chassis on the top. Perfecto. We also enjoyed both the Rosetta, the drink of the week last week with whipped egg and cloves, as well as a fun tiki drink called Ebb Tide: pineapple, rum, mint. A tiki mule if you will. Wonder what fun drink of the week they will come up with next week? Can’t wait to find out.

We must say that the Halcyon up in Forsyth is really a destination for anyone living in Atlanta. They have a brew pub, sports bar, movie theater with delicious eats, and more. Let’s not forget this absolute gem, Ocean & Acre. Take your family, friends, and life mate, grab a cocktail and sit by the fire. You’ll be glad you did.

ETU HOMES PRESENTS AN AFTERNOON WITH ANNETTE JOSEPH

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 11/24/19

Etu Home

Saturday, November 30th at noon

Join, Etu Home, on Saturday, November 30th for a special afternoon with entertaining author, Annette Joseph, to kick-off the holiday season!

From Noon until 2 pm, learn how to build a charcuterie board, watch a cocktail mixology demo, followed by A Cocktail Italiano book signing.

Details here.