Tag Archive for: beer

WING AND ROCK FEST 2024 IN CANTON

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 3/1/24

“Stay & Play in Canton, Georgia”

Calling all festival-goers! Exciting news: Krause Family Ford Of Woodstock proudly presents the Wing and Rock Festival on March 23rd & 24th! Get ready for a mind-blowing weekend filled with lip-smacking wings, electrifying rock music, and unbeatable vibes!  Picture yourself enjoying the juiciest, most finger-licking chicken wings you’ve ever sunk your teeth into. Imagine the heavenly aroma wafting through the air as local pitmasters compete for wing-sizzling supremacy. Are you drooling yet?  But hold on tight – it doesn’t end there!

This two-day extravaganza will have your heart pounding to the rhythm of live rock performances from amazing bands that will blow your mind. Feel the energy surge through your veins as guitars wail and drums thunder – an experience like no other!  

Oh, did we mention that admission is completely FREE? Yup, zero dollars to enjoy mouthwatering wings paired with killer tunes. Plus, there’ll be plenty of vendors offering tempting treats to satisfy all appetites (yes vegetarians too!). Prepare to indulge in delectable dishes that’ll make your taste buds sing with joy!  Still not convinced? How about adding family-friendly activities like face painting for kids or exploring the hottest cars on display by Krause Family Ford themselves? Entertainment galore awaits at every corner!

So mark those calendars because March 23rd & 24th are about to become legendary days overflowing with flavor-packed wings and eardrum-smashing rock. Gather your squad and join us at the Wing and Rock Festival – the ultimate fusion of food, music, and unforgettable memories. For details visit www.wingandrockfest.com.

Date: March 23rd & 24th, 2024
Time: Saturday 12:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. & Sunday 12:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Location: Etowah River Park – 600 Brown Industrial Pkwy, Canton, GA 30114 

STEAMHOUSE LOUNGE PRESENTS THE 36TH ANNUAL OYSTERFEST FEBRUARY 24 AND 25

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 1/31/24

Join Atlanta’s Original Oysterfest in Midtown for Two Days of Live Music, Cold Brews, Fresh Seafood and More Weekend and Single Day Tickets Now Available

 Prepare to shell-ebrate as the original Steamhouse Lounge Oysterfest returns to Midtown Atlanta for its 36th year on Saturday, February 24th, and Sunday, February 25th. Produced by Rival Entertainment, seafood fanatics are in for a dream weekend with heaping buckets of roasted oysters, chargrilled oysters on the half-shell topped with garlic and butter, Steamhouse’s legendary lobster bisque, fried oyster po’boys, ice-cold beer, cocktails, and much more.

Located just two blocks from the Steamhouse Lounge’s iconic beach house on the corner of 11th and West Peachtree, Atlanta’s original Oysterfest will showcase musical talent from across the country in perfect tune with the vibe and soul of Atlanta’s favorite street party. Artists taking the stage Saturday include Magnolia Express, Truett, Kobanova, The Fixins, and Boot Scootin’ Boogie- A Night of 90s Country. The party revs back up on Sunday with Francisco Vidal, Rare Birds, A Murder of Crowes (A Black Crowes Tribute), and Yacht Rock Schooner.

Weekend tickets to the 36th annual Steamhouse Lounge Oysterfest are on sale now for $25, plus fees, and include two days of grooving to live music, enjoying fresh seafood from the Louisiana Gulf Coast and letting the good times roll. For revelers who can’t make it on Saturday, single-day tickets are available for Sunday at $15, plus fees. Advance tickets allow for express entry lanes and are available at www.steamhouselounge.com. The event is for ages 21 and up. Festival goers under 21 are permitted when accompanied by an adult 25 or older. Oysterfest is cashless; all transactions at the gates, bars, and restaurants will only accept credit or debit cards. Oysterfest encourages its patrons to be responsible and take MARTA to the 10th Street Midtown Station for maximum fun.

The 36th Annual Steamhouse Lounge Oysterfest benefits the Atlanta Leadership Club, which empowers strong leaders from underserved Atlanta communities, Shells To Shore, an Athens-based oyster shell recycling project, and Giving Kitchen, who provide emergency assistance for food service workers through financial support and a network of community resources.

COST: $25 for Saturday and Sunday

$15 for Sunday-Only

Tickets are available at www.steamhouselounge.com.

EVENTIDE BREWING CELEBRATES 10 YEARS WITH DREAMS OF A DECADE ANNIVERSARY PARTY ON FEBRUARY 10

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 1/30/24

Grant Park’s favorite neighborhood brewery, Eventide Brewing, invites the community to toast a milestone – its 10th anniversary – with a grand party themed Daydreams of a Decade on Saturday, February 10. 

The event promises a day filled with nostalgia, entertainment and plenty of great craft beer, where guests can “hop” into a world of whimsy and joy.

Key features include an interactive photo wall where guests can claim a free beer if they spot themselves, making it a “picture-perfect pint” moment, along with an exciting raffle. The raffle’s grand prize is a coveted weekday evening reservation in Eventide’s Biergarten event space, valued at $700, truly a “dream come true” for any beer enthusiast.

Event Highlights:

  • Re-release of Cosmic Daydream Hazy IPA: A fan favorite, Cosmic Daydream makes a triumphant return, offering attendees a taste of one of Eventide Brewing’s most beloved brews. This will surely have guests “floating on cloud nine.”
  • Raffle and games: Attendees can participate in a raffle with exciting prizes and enjoy a range of engaging games suitable for all ages.
  • Coloring station for kids: The celebration is family-friendly, with a dedicated coloring station to keep the little ones entertained, turning their “colorful daydreams” into art.
  • Food and refreshments: A selection of local food vendors will be present, offering a variety of delicious options to complement the brewery’s array of beers.
  • Music: The event will feature live music during the celebration. 
  • And more: The anniversary party promises additional surprises and activities, ensuring a memorable experience for everyone.

The event is all ages until 6 p.m. when it’s 21 and up. 

For more information about the event, please visit: eventidebrewing.com/upcoming-events.

COST:  

  • Free entry for designated drivers; guests under 18
  • $5 – Casual Fan: Includes two game tickets and an NA beverage
  • $15 – Top Fan: Includes one free beer and five game tickets 
  • $50 – Super Fan: Includes two free beers, 10 game tickets, Eventide pint glass, stickers and throwback t-shirt
  • $75 – Enthusiast: Includes three free beers, 15 game tickets, one to-go sixpack, Eventide pint glass, stickers and throwback t-shirt
  • $90 – VIP: Includes free unlimited draft beer and 10 game tickets 

EL SUPER PAN THE BATTERY HOLIDAY PARRANDAS SING-ALONG ON DECEMBER 20!

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 12/14/23

El Super Pan at The Battery (a lively Latin kitchen & bar from chef Hector Santiago) is celebrating Navidad with a festive Parrandas – the Puerto Rican celebration of Christmas caroling that takes place during the holiday season! Here are the details:

Holiday Parrandas Sing-along Event (Dec. 20, 6-10pm) Join El Super Pan for an unforgettable holiday celebration and Parrandas! Immerse yourself in the vibrant Latin culture with a lively cocktail party event featuring the sights, sounds and flavors of the Christmas season in Puerto Rico, all alongside chef Hector Santiago’s favorite Puerto Rican holiday dishes, special desserts, a live DJ for a Parranda sing-a-long & dancing and a Coquito toast.


TICKETS are $75 per person and include a welcome Medalla, a Coquito toast and unlimited access to the event’s Puerto Rican holiday feast from chef Hector:

  • Mezclita sandwiches
  • Alcapurrias
  • Bacalaitos
  • Croquetas
  • Empanaditas
  • Arroz con gandules
  • Guineitos en escabeche
  • Pasteles
  • Pork belly chicharron
  • Morcilla
  • Lechon asdo
  • Arroz con dulce
  • Temblequitos
  • Polvorones
  • & many more of chef’s specialties!

LETTERS TO SANTA PARTY AT EVENTIDE BREWERY

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 12/4/23

Hop into the holiday spirit with Eventide Brewing’s Letters to Santa Party on December 16 

Grant Park’s favorite neighborhood brewery will feature fun for the entire family

Jingle all the way to Eventide Brewing on Saturday, December 16, for an unforgettable holiday bash filled with festive fun, frothy brews and seasonal surprises. The event will include:

Gingerbread house building competition: Build, sip, win! 

  • Join the gingerbread house building competition for just $20. This sweet deal includes a gingerbread house kit and a beer to boost your creativity. Prizes await the three best creations. 
  • Extra icing, gumdrops or decorations? Feel free to bring your own supplies to add that personal twist to your gingerbread masterpiece.

Letters to Santa: North Pole express mail 

  • A letter-writing station will be set up in the brewery for your little elves to pen their wishes to Santa. 

Ho-ho-photo ops: Santa’s special appearance

  • Have your family photos taken with the jolly old guy. A donation of $5 is requested to take your photo with Santa. All proceeds from pictures will be donated to Blessing Bags of Warmth to spread the joy beyond brewery walls.

Holiday gift market: Shop local, gift joy

  • Explore the holiday market with a sleigh-full of local vendors. Find the perfect, including artisan jewelry, foods, soaps, home goods, crafts and more.

Exclusive brews: A taste of holiday cheer

  • Back by popular demand, the brewery will release its Candy Cane Kattegat, a baltic porter swirled with peppermint.
  • Blitzen, the brewery’s limited-release White IPA, is making its final festive flight. Get it before it’s gone forever. 

Jingle Bell Rock: Live music to lift your spirits

  • Enjoy live performances of your favorite holiday tunes. The perfect soundtrack to sip your Candy Cane Kattegat to or while perusing the gift market. 

Cuban Christmas feast

  • Don Fausto’s  will present a traditional Cuban Christmas menu, including ropa vieja and roasted mojo pork.

For more information about the event, please visit: eventidebrewing.com/upcoming-events.

BOONE, NC: AWE INSPIRING

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 11/13/23

Fall is the best time to head to the mountains. Being only 4.5 hours from Atlanta, we traveled up to Awe inspiring Boone, NC. It was a blustery, clear weekend and the rolling hills and mountains were changing to red, orange, and brown all around us. Plus, the temperature was brisk just like you’d want it on a mountain weekend getaway. Beyond the beautiful views and weather, Boone boasts a lively downtown, all types of food and brew options, stellar hotel accommodations, as well as a skiing destination in the winter. Some of our favorite places that we will explore are the Graystone Lodge just 3 miles from downtown, Lost Provience downtown and Hardin Creek just outside town, Boonshine, Dan’l Boone Inn & Restaurant, and The Beacon Boone!  

Stay: Graystone Lodge 

The recently renovated Graystone Lodge, Ascend Hotel Collection, is a cozy lodge inspired hotel where the minute you walk in you feel at home. You’re greeted with a large inviting stone fireplace to welcome guests, seating area with TV, and breakfast area where they serve the best complimentary hot breakfast buffet. Beyond that they’re close to shopping, restaurants, and only about 3 miles to downtown and 2 miles to App State.  

We got a large king room with a large comfy bed and plenty of room to lounge. One of the highlights of the room is the beautiful light-up Blue Ridge Mountains mural in the headboard. It looks just like the mountains blue and purple! In the bathroom, they’ve upgraded to beautiful floating vanity, upgraded shower and mirrors, as well as shiplap walls!  

The amenities abound as well at Graystone Lodge! In the lobby, there is a cozy fireplace with a reading area. The Lodge offers a hot buffet for breakfast with waffles, eggs, their own egg casserole bake, and even Dan’l Boone ham! They have a small market area for late night snacks and a large indoor pool great for swimming all year.  

Dining 

Dan’l Boone Inn & Restaurant 

Dan’l Boone Inn & Restaurant is as southern as banana pudding. Dan’l Boone Inn & Restaurant located in the heart of Boone is near App State and the essential family style spot for all your country cooking favorites. It is nestled in a beautiful white home with lush grounds and epic mountain views. Inside, after waiting in line on the porch, you’ll start out with cool salads and drinks followed by a smorgasbord of tasty fried chicken, warm, buttery biscuits filled with Dan’l Boone’s signature cured, salty, meaty ham (must try), and savory sirloin steak in gravy! Then, paired with a slew of trimmings like creamy, dreamy, mashed potatoes, ham drenched green beans, buttery corn, creamy coleslaw, and the best, sweet baked apples (must try)! For dessert choose between their must try creamy perfect banana pudding, rich chocolate cake or strawberry shortcake!  

Everything is included in the price, that is adults are $23.95 before tax and tip and kids vary by age. Breakfast has its own pricing, and they don’t take credit cards, so you’ll need to bring cash, check, or use their ATM. Don’t forget to check out the store for preserves and that epic Dan’l Boone ham so you can take home a slice of Boone with you! And whatever you do, plan some time to get into the restaurant! There WILL be a long line during peak hours especially on the weekend.  

Lost Provience Gastropub – Downtown Boone 

On our first night, we went Downtown Boone to indulge in Lost Province Brewing co.’s gastro pub! In an old brick building on the corner, this spot has a large bar, ample seating, a large woodfire pizza oven, and a large patio. From a plethora of beers on tap, to fun shared plates, to wonderful handhelds, and even pizza, this is a spot you could hang out and relax for a spell! We’d recommend heading out back to the patio for mountain views! 

For you beer lovers, you’ll really enjoy their wide variety of brews like The Great Pumpkin Ale, a light malted ale filled with fall spices, yet drinkable. John really loved the sweet, slightly hopped and light Bless Your Heart Blonde Ale. On our flight, we sampled: Awww Puddin, a banana pudding ale, light and refreshing with some banana flavor and sweet, the tangy and tart Up Schitt’s Creek fruited sour, a robust and toasted London Porter, and an earthy herbaceous blackberry sour, Word to the Wise.  

Don’t only go for some suds, you must stay for their wonderful food like the favorite dish of the night, Hot Fried Chicken Sandwich that is crispy yet juicy chicken in a sweet apricot and spicy jalapeño glaze on fresh bread. It is topped with spicy pickled jalapeños, cool slaw, and a tasty aioli! John opted for the Wood fired pizza. It is Napoleon style with very fresh mozzarella and fresh tossed dough, tangy sauce, and spicy pepperoni! He was happy!  

For our starters we got the Apple burrata salad that is creamy cool burrata atop a bed of poached apple, sweet, toasty pecans, earthy greens, raisins, and a sweet maple vinaigrette  

The best appetizer was the Jalapeño hushpuppies are spicy and rich inside and oh so crispy out. They are paired with hot pimento cheese that is warm, spicy, creamy and sharp. These are a must try with pimento cheese. Finally, we got the Wood fired pretzel. It is tender inside, crispy outside pizza bread with a light char and marinara for dipping.  

The Beacon Boone 

On our second night, we visited the wonderful The Beacon Boone. Located just outside downtown Boone and just a half mile from our hotel, The Beacon is an upscale eatery with cozy-lodge style vibes, sweeping vaulted ceilings, large stone fireplace, lounge area, and beautiful bar. On the menu is an array of seafood, meats, shareable charcuterie and salads, a whole butcher menu, and some of the best cocktails in the whole area!  

If we had to pick one food and drink pairing, we had, it has to be the stunning peppered beef carpaccio. It is meaty and savory rare beef, earthy mushroom, tangy radish and a little bit of balsamic to round it out. It even comes with a cheesy, crunchy Parmesan dome on top for crunch! Then, pair it with Heaven Wept gin cocktail with egg white, Thai Basil, and earthy lemongrass. It’s sweet yet earthy, creamy, and has a hint of spice!  

If you’re looking at their butcher bar, we’d highly recommend the New Zealand Lamb Chop. This set of chips are tender and juicy with a spicy, bright, herbaceous chimichurri on top. It is matched with Brussels sprouts underneath with a Ceasar dressing that’s tangy and creamy to juxtapose the earthiness of the sprout. Plus, a sweet yet hearty cast iron corn bread that is warm and soft inside, crunchy out. We paired this entree with the A shot in the Foot, a boozy bourbon cocktail with hot honey that’s spicy, plus, vanilla up front and the peach purée on the back for a bit of sweetness. A flavor train for sure!  

Some other highlights include their Spinach and brie salad is earthy and tangy, bright dressing, and crunchy, earthy brie. As well as the Charcuterie board has it ALL! Raisins, pickled veggies, assorted meats and cheese and a spicy spread, plus honeycomb and some herbaceous crackers! It’s loaded. 

Breweries 

Boonshine  

Just down the road from our hotel, we stopped by Boonehine Brew, a modern yet rustic brewery with a huge outdoor space. Sweeping mountain views and right next to a park, it doesn’t feel like you’re anywhere near a city. It’s the perfect spot to relax and take in the Boone air.  

They were having their annual Oktoberfest, so the first beer we tried was the malty and balanced Overlook Oktoberfest! Some of our other beer recommendations at Boonshine are the smooth and light East Boone Pils, a sweet and chocolatey Let Them Drink Cake Coffee Cake Blonde Stout, as well as the juicy Space Pegasus Hazy IPA! 

Lost Province at Hardin Creek 

Nestled in a small industrial area, Lost Province Hardin Creek is a hidden gem. Relaxed and chill vibes permeate this laid-back small brewery with a beautiful mural wall and cozy bar. Outside, they have a small patio that opens to the bar so you can sit and take in the scenery.  

Of the beers we tried our favorites were the coffee forward “The Walker” coffee Porter stuffed with Anchor Coffee, as well as the Friend of the Devil spicy habanero and earthy pepper cream ale. John adored the Kiss My Grits cornbread tasting lager, sweet, yet mellow. Everything we had there was delicious and recommended.  

LIVE! AT THE BATTERY ANNOUNCES OCTOBER, NOVEMBER & DECEMBER 2023 EVENTS LINEUP

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 9/26/23

Football Watch Parties, Live NFC Fight Event, Heroes and Villains Halloween Party, NYE Live! Hollywood Nights & More

 Live! at The Battery – the entertainment destination located in the heart of The Battery Atlanta – announces its events lineup for October, November and December 2023, plus ongoing happenings like Freedom Friday and Silent Disco Saturday.

  • College Football & Professional Football Game Watch PartiesThe thrills of football are back on the field and available to watch at all the venues right inside Live! at the Battery Atlanta with the ultimate football experience! From one of the biggest screens in the Southeast inside Sports and Social Atlanta to VIP booth experiences and Bull Riding inside of PBR, the liveliest atmosphere in all of Atlanta starts here. Fans can enjoy a huge selection of game day food like shareable nachos and mouth-watering burgers while enjoying Coors Light Bucket specials! 
  • Heroes & Villains – A Live! Halloween Party (Friday., Oct. 27, 8pm-2am) – Things are getting spooky at Live! this October with a Heroes & Villains themed Halloween party! Guests are invited to don their best costumes for a night of exhilarating suspense, where forces of good clash with the shadows of evil in an epic showdown of fun. Featuring great music, craft cocktails and memorable photo opps – this is a can’t-miss event. Tickets will be available here
  • Wizards & Wands (Saturday, Nov. 18, 8pm-1am) – This Fall, Live! At the Battery is conjuring up a magical experience full of wonder and sorcery with fan favorite witches and wizards. Potterheads are invited to don their finest robes representing their house or favorite character and be immersed in spellbinding ambiance, complete with flickering candles and mystical marvels. Tickets are available here
  • NFC Fight Night (Friday, Dec. 8, 7pm-midnight) – Live! at the Battery is hosting their second National Fighting Championship (NFC) event this winter. The adrenaline-filled night will feature live professional and amateur MMA and Muay Thai fights. Fight attendees will have the chance to be a part of the non-stop action during 12+ Fights in the NFC cage at one of the most exciting and new environments for watching live fights. Plus, there will be fan-favorite drinks and an official after party next door at PBR. The event will be 18 and up with certain areas being 21 and up. Tickets are available here.
  • Tinsel Tavern (Nov., 30 through Dec., 23, excluding select dates) – Live! at The Battery will once again be home to popular holiday pop-up bar Tinsel Tavern throughout the merriest time of year. Featuring an explosion of tinsel and twinkling lights, holiday-inspired cocktails and small bites, photo moments, themed nights and more, the whimsical experience is a can’t-miss holiday spot. More details to come.
  • NYE Live! Hollywood Nights (Sunday, Dec. 31, 8pm-2am) – Live! at the Battery is rolling out the red carpet and flashing lights for New Year’s Eve! Guests can be the star of the party with exclusive access to all the venues during this Hollywood Nights-themed event. Ticket packages include entertainment with live music, unforgettable photo-op moments and a midnight champagne toast featuring the Times Square Ball Drop on a 32-ft LED screen! Call up the glam squad and prepare for a night of glitz and glam to ring in the New Year. Tickets will be available here later this month.

A one-of-a-kind place to catch sports, dine in style, sip cold beer and craft cocktails, play games and do a bit of bull riding and line dancing, Live! at The Battery plays host to some of Atlanta’s most fun food and drink events. Ongoing happenings include:

  • Freedom Friday, which welcomes military personnel, vets, first responders and public service members to skip the line, get free cover (credentials required) and enjoy drink specials every first Friday of the month.
  • Silent Saturday, inviting guests to grab a pair of headphones and get in the groove with beats from local DJs.

THE WURST BEER HALL PARTNERS WITH ELEMENTAL SPIRITS CO TO CELEBRATE OKTOBERFEST

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 9/23/23

Summer Roadshow Dinner Series Makes Final Stop of Season with German Food & Wine Pairing

Thursday, September 28

                           

The Wurst Beer Hallis collaborating with Poncey-Highland wine and spirits shop Elemental Spirits Co. Thursday, Sept. 28 for the final #HungryandCurious Summer Roadshow dinner of the season.

This special Oktoberfest dinner will be held on the restaurant’s communal outdoor patio, where guests can mingle under twinkling lights and sample three courses featuring platters of sausages, Patak bacon, pork shank, sauerkraut, spaetzle, pretzels, and more alongside four carefully curated German wine pairings. 

Some of the featured wines include Stein Blauschiefer Riesling Trocken and Ziereisen Blauer Spätburgunder (Pinot Noir).

Tickets are $95/person and include gratuity and all food and wine pairings.

WILD HEAVEN 13TH ANNIVERSARY AND OKTOBERFEST BASH

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 9/15/23

Saturday, September 23 11 am

Prost! It’s time to raise a stein not only for Wild Heaven’s 13th anniversary, but for their “beer-loved” Oktoberfest celebration. On Saturday, September 23, 2023, the highly-anticipated German tradition will be in full force at Wild Heaven’s Avondale location (135B Maple St, Avondale Estates, GA 30002) from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. At the Wies’n, guests can expect traditional German food from Chef Carla Fears accompanied by live German music and a stein hoisting competition. In honor of the brewery’s 13th birthday, guests can pick up a commemorative stein and be the first to try their limited-edition 13 anniversary beer a very special blend of barrel-aged treats that will be truly one-of-a-kind. Available on draft and in bottles. Revelers that bring their own stein can take advantage of $4 refills. Wild Heaven’s 13th anniversary stein and limited-edited anniversary beer will also be available at the Westend location. For more information, visit https://wildheavenbeer.com

FIND YOUR AHHH IN VALDOSTA, GA!

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 9/11/23

Just a few hours south of Atlanta in South Georgia, Valdosta is the perfect stopping point to relax on the way to Florida or even better for a weekend getaway. They call it finding your “ahhh.” Downtown has everything you could imagine with delicious food destinations, a brewery, a wine bar, shopping, boutique hotels, a local playhouse, artwork to see, all wrapped up in a walkable adventure! Start with staying at the McKey boutique hotel, have dinner at 306 North, take a walking tour of the artwork and murals around downtown, stop for a brew at Georgia Beer Company, and stay for brunch at Downtown Social. So, whether you stop through or stay a while, it’s ahhhmazing. Let’s explore. 

The McKey 

Where can you stay in Valdosta that SOAKS up everything downtown has to offer? It’s The McKey! A brand new, luxurious 12-room boutique hotel in the historic McKey building. It is steps from restaurants, bars, and shopping. Fun fact: all the suites in the McKey are named after tenants that at one time we’re in the building, like restaurants, law firms, or historical facts like the year the building was constructed, or year the first pecan tree was planted. Each room has its own tribute and photos to go along with it!  

We stayed in the S&K Suite that is named after the S&K diner, a local hang out spot nicknamed “sit and kiss,” the suite is thought of as their bridal suite. Feast your eyes upon this one bed, one bath suite, with a spectacular bathroom boasting a massive soaker tub that has changed my mind about baths, a large full-length mirror and sitting area, two spacious vanities, a separated shower and toilet area. If I could have a bathroom at home, this would do! Then, on to the bedroom where there is a large, comfy long bed with a view of downtown right out the window! In the sitting area and kitchenette, it’s the perfect spot to relax with a glass of wine and chat about everything you want to do in downtown Valdosta!  

306 North 

Southern fare was on our mind, so we visited 306 North in downtown Valdosta! They have elevated traditional Southern dishes like fried green tomatoes, fried duck, salads, and even Tuna Tataki, all paired with a great cocktail menu, wine list, and beer selection.  

Starting with this fresh Tuna Tataki, the fish is lightly seared and surrounded by creamy, spicy mayonnaise, a wonderful cilantro soy vinaigrette, pickled ginger, and a spicy wasabi cream to round out the dish. It is a delicious start to our meal. Then, we paired it with their amazing fried green tomatoes. The tomatoes themselves are crunchy yet tender and topped with a sensational, sharp pimento cheese and a spicy, sweet pepper jelly. It’s a flavor train!  

To drink, we tried their Manhattan. This one is boozy with hints of cinnamon and cherry! A delicious accoutrement with our main, the duck breast! On the side, we started our main dish with the wedge salad. It is creamy and cool, crisp bacon, tomatoes, and peas atop a mild blue cheese dressing. The perfect pair for the Maple Farms Duck breast.  

The Maple Farms Duck Breast is lightly fried and crunchy out, tender and juicy in, then topped with a delicious and tangy, sweet blackberry jam reduction that is just stunning with the savory of the duck. On the plate with the duck, we got the Balsamic Mushrooms that are savory and deep, earthy and the honey-truffle sweet potatoes are sweet and tangy, tender, hints of truffle and honey!  

Georgia Beer Company 

After our scrumptious meal, we took a short walk to look at the murals and artwork around Valdosta, GA! All on the way to a great brewery, Georgia Beer Company! They have a large list of brews to choose from, like stouts, sours, IPAs, lagers, and everything in between. The space is large and open with a long bar, table seating, and a huge outdoor space with live music!  

Some of the beers we sampled included the Destress Express sensational coffee milk stout with a coffee forward nose and on the palate then mellowing into a creamy yet slightly bitter aftertaste. Being only 6.5% it is more like a cup of Joe than a boozy stout. Another favorite was the Blueberry Field Party Blonde Ale, a 5% blueberry forward beer on the nose and palate, very fruity. If you love sours, Grandmas Jelly Mayhaw Berry Sour is a 5.3% tangy and tart beer but not overpowering and refreshing. 

Of the rest we sampled, the Foggy Bottom is a 7% west coast IPA, large hops, bitter on the back, while Azalea City amber ale is a 5.5% malty yet balanced, mellow, and smooth amber. Dark 30 Black IPA is a 6% beer that’s both toasty and hoppy, while the Back Nine Lager is a smooth, sippable light beer that only has 130 calories! You really can’t go wrong with any of these beers from Georgia Beer Company! 

Downtown Social 

One morning, we were craving brunch, so we headed just around the corner from The McKey over to Downtown social. Their shareable brunch was right up our alley! Downtown Social is an incredible boutique bowling and game destination with a large full bar and shareable bite menu! We enjoyed the shareable brunch board, mimosa flight, breakfast empanadas, and even a bowl of tot-chos!  

We just couldn’t resist their shareable brunch board stuffed with all the brunch goodies like sweet and crispy waffles, crunchy, tender chicken tenders (Pro tip: make chicken and waffles), savory egg frittata, flaky, buttery biscuits with savory sausage gravy, sweet French toast sticks, fruit, jam, honey, and a helping of bacon and sausage on the side! It will blow your mind! To pair with this we got the super cool mimosa flight with sweet and floral pea flower, bright pineapple, sweet cherry, and tangy orange! 

The other two dishes we tried were the Breakfast Empanadas and the Tot-chos. The empanadas were crunchy outside warm in with spicy chorizo and jalapeño surrounded by egg, paired with bright pico and a sharp beer cheese. For our side, we got an amazing fruit bowl filled with blueberries and strawberries. Another fun dish is Tot-chos. Starting with a savory egg that’s over a bed of crispy warm Tots with sharp beer cheese, savory pulled brisket, and tangy peppers. Either way, you’re in for a treat. 

Valdosta has so much to do, you should get down there for a weekend trip and soak up all the relaxation and fun you can!