Tag Archive for: buckhead

GRAND HYATT ATLANTA BUCKHEAD

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 6/23/25

You’ll find inner peace at this newly renovated Buckhead hotel, The Grand Hyatt Atlanta Buckhead! Recently, John and I stayed the weekend at the Grand Hyatt Atlanta in Buckhead and were stunned by its beautiful renovation! Everything about it was calming and opulent from the beautiful rooms to the sweeping bar, to the lush Zen Garden and pool.

The lobby greets you with a grand chandelier and posh art deco seating! The lobby has marble floors, flashes of colorful artwork, and artwork creating movement. Inside The Fabled bar in front of you, the bar soars to the ceiling and the marble top seems to go on forever. On the opposite side of the bar are storytelling artwork and columns reminiscent of Italy or Greece with seating that overlooks the Zen Garden and waterfall!

Speaking of the Zen Garden, take a stroll! Go up to floor three and out the double doors to take a walk through their Zen Garden. Lush plants, Japanese accents, sitting areas and it all overlooks a waterfall that you can see from the lobby and bar. The Zen Garden leads to the pool where you can relax by it and even order a bevy. To access the waterfall, head to down to the lower level during Cassis breakfast hours. You can even sit outside by it with your breakfast.

After that, retreat to your room. John and I got treated to a suite where you walk into a living room all dressed up with a cozy, comfy couch and chairs, and a small wet bar. Loved the art deco like 20s lighting, as well. In the bedroom, the large king comfy bed is accented by a gray scale garden and tree scene which was calming and a small siting area. The bathroom is a stunner with marble floor, vanity and shower! It was like a spa!

The Fabled Bar

John and I enjoyed a meal here while we visited! Here we found out more about myths (cocktails named after myths) on their amazing drink menu and epic journeys like their locally sourced scratch food. All enjoyed in the relaxed, beautiful ambiance of the bar.

To start we opted for the creamy, slightly smoky deviled eggs that also had a good tang and a pop of salty fish roe on top. To go with that came the Tuna Tataki. It is crunchy, sesame encrusted seared tuna with a bright seaweed salad and a delicious soy glaze! For dinner, I had to try the Zen Garden bowl because it sounded so good. I added well-seasoned and cooked salmon to the top of this favorite dish. The bowl is bright lemon vinaigrette, sweet potatoes, cool cauliflower rice, spicy arugula, and crunchy pepitas. To wash it all down, got the Oracle’s martini. This is a vodka martini with floral elderflower, sweet and tart pear, and bright lemon.

Told you! You can find inner peace here at every turn.

THOMPSON ATLANTA – BUCKHEAD TO HOST NATIONAL BARTENDING COMPETITION DURING U.S. BARTENDERS’ GUILD SUMMIT

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 5/16/25

Thompson Atlanta – Buckhead is proud to serve as a host venue for the USBG Presents World Class Sponsored By DIAGEO, which brings its highly anticipated national finals to Atlanta this month.

From May 18 to May 20, 2025, the city will welcome the Top 30 regional bartenders from across the country as they compete in the USBG Presents World Class U.S. Finals, a multi-day event designed to test the creativity, technical skill, and knowledge of the nation’s best mixologists. Competitions and programming will take place within Thompson Atlanta – Buckhead, offering guests a front-row seat to the craft cocktail world’s most exciting showdown.

Following a series of immersive and challenging rounds, 10 finalists will be selected to continue vying for the title of 2025 U.S. Bartender of the Year. The national champion will go on to represent the U.S. at the World Class Global Finals in Toronto, Canada this August, competing against top bartenders from more than 50 countries.

“We’re honored to be part of such a prestigious event and welcome bartending talent from across the country to Thompson Atlanta – Buckhead,” said Donte Johnson, General Manager of Thompson Atlanta – Buckhead. “Our hotel celebrates craft, culture, and community – values deeply shared with this competition and the bartending profession at large.”

The World Class competition, sponsored by global spirits leader Diageo, will take place exclusively at Thompson Atlanta – Buckhead. While select off-site events – including the Top 10 Dinner and Winner Announcement – will be held at other locations, the main competition is open to the public for consumers 21+. See the full schedule here.

“World Class is more than a competition – it’s a celebration of bartenders at the highest level,” said Bo Shuff, Executive Director of the United States Bartenders’ Guild. “We’re honored to host this event as part of the USBG Bar Summit and to partner with Thompson Atlanta – Buckhead in welcoming and showcasing these professionals from across the country as we celebrate their craft. It’s a powerful reflection of how education and community – core to the USBG’s mission, continue to shape the future of our industry.”

The United States Bartenders’ Guild (USBG), a nonprofit with thousands of members and chapters in nearly 50 cities, including Atlanta, has long championed professional development within the beverage industry. The USBG Presents World Class Sponsored by DIAGEO event not only showcases exceptional bartending talent but also highlights emerging trends in the industry, from sustainability and low-ABV cocktails to bartenders’ growing roles as educators and community leaders. In celebration of this year’s U.S. Finals, World Class will be hosting a Cocktail Festival that will be serving specialty drinks at various bars and restaurants in Atlanta to engage the local community and build buzz around the competition. A list of participating bars and restaurants can be found here.

Cocktails created for the duration of this year’s competition can be found on Instagram using the handle @WorldClassUS.

For additional information about the program and for details on the upcoming global competition, follow hashtags #worldclassus and #worldclass2025 on Twitter and Instagram, and visit worldclass.usbg.org and www.usbg.org.

GRAND TASTING BUCKHEAD 2025

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 4/3/25


Thursday, April 24

The Towers at Uptown

Taste of Atlanta is thrilled to introduce Grand Tasting Buckhead, a brand-new, all-inclusive evening celebrating the vibrant culinary scene of Buckhead. Debuting on Thursday, April 24, 2025, from 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM at The Towers at Uptown Atlanta, this exciting new event will bring together the city’s top restaurants, beverage brands, and entertainment for an evening of indulgence.

Event Highlights:

  • Culinary Delights: Indulge in unlimited tastings from over 20 of Buckhead’s top restaurants, showcasing a diverse array of cuisines and signature dishes.
  • Beverage Experiences: Enjoy a variety of wines, beers, and craft cocktails curated to complement the evening’s culinary offerings.
  • Interactive Sessions: Engage with renowned chefs during intimate chats and witness mixology demonstrations that reveal the art behind your favorite drinks.
  • Live Entertainment: Groove to the soulful tunes of Ethel and The Shotters, led by London-born performer Katy Shotter, known for her collaborations with global artists like Beyoncé and Robin Thicke.

Participating Restaurants:

  • Aviva by Kameel
  • Botica
  • Cupcakin’ Bake Shop
  • DBA Barbecue
  • El Gordo
  • J’ouvert Caribbean Kitchen & Bar
  • Mission + Market
  • NaanStop
  • White Windmill Bakery
  • Woody’s Cheesesteaks
  • Zakia Modern Lebanese Restaurant

(Please note: The restaurant list is subject to change. More participants may be added.)

Ticket Information:

  • General Admission: Provides access to unlimited food and beverage tastings, interactive sessions, and live entertainment. Tickets cost $95 per person. 
  • VIP Admission: Offers all General Admission benefits plus exclusive early entry and access to an exclusive VIP seating area and VIP swag bag. Tickets cost $125 per person. 

Tickets are available for purchase at https://buckhead.tasteofatlanta.com/. Early purchase is recommended, as this event is expected to sell out.

Sponsors:

We extend our gratitude to our 2025 sponsors for their generous support:

  • Coca-Cola
  • Don Julio
  • Uptown Atlanta
  • Smartwater
  • Society Insurance
  • Grand Marnier
  • Tito’s Vodka
  • Altos Tequila
  • Dancing Goats Coffee
  • Don Cosme
  • Regency Centers
  • Oxygen Financial
  • Savannah Distributing
  • Classic Tents
  • Prima Flyers
  • Atlanta Home Magazine
  • Rough Draft
  • Georgia Voice
  • Atlanta Intown
  • Simply Buckhead
  • 680 The Fan
  • XTRA 1063
  • My Buckhead
  • Atlanta’s Best
  • Smooth Jazz 101
  • Atlanta Magazine
  • Jezebel Magazine

Join Taste of Atlanta for a night of culinary excellence, entertainment, and community spirit. Experience the best of Buckhead’s dining scene in one iconic night!

DISCOVER THE BOUNDLESS POSSIBILITIES OF INSPIRATION AT DESIGN ADAC 2025

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 3/16/25

Atlanta’s Premier Spring Design Event Returns With Notable Names + Networking April 22-24
General Registration Opens March 18


Step into a world of creativity and inspiration at DESIGN ADAC 2025 returning April 22-24 to celebrate the art of design in all its forms. This year’s highly anticipated spring market invites designers, architects, and creatives to explore an exciting lineup of keynote speakers, immersive showroom presentations, visionary collaborations, and exclusive events, including the Southeast Designers & Architect of the Year Finalists Celebration and Awards Gala. 

This year’s DESIGN ADAC will also highlight the debut books from Nashville-based designer Stephanie Sabbe, “Interiors of a Storyteller,” and Birmingham-based designer Caroline Gidiere, “Interiors for A Life in Good Taste.” Kicking off the event, renowned interior designer Jeffrey Alan Marks will engage in an intimate discussion with VERANDA magazine about his latest book, “This is Home.” Additionally, FREDERIC and Southern Home will debut their first-ever keynote programming at DESIGN ADAC, bringing regional talents to the stage to dive into interior design, photo styling, and the techniques behind staging and layering antiques to create truly stunning spaces. Panel discussions featuring influential designers and architects, such as Beth Webb, Whitney Ray, Heather Chadduck Hillegas, Brandon Ingram, and Brooke and Steve Giannetti, will offer their insights on award-winning design projects and the creation of timeless homes. The event will also feature the grand opening of Caracole’s showroom with a special cocktail party on Tuesday, April 22, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. 

“Design is an evolving art form – personal, dynamic, and ever-inspiring. DESIGN ADAC 2025 will explore the shifting landscape of design, from redefining luxury and craftsmanship to the intersection of storytelling and artistic expression,” said ADAC General Manager Katie Miner. “This event is more than just a market – it’s an opportunity for attendees at every level of their career and business to come together, exchange ideas, and immerse themselves in three days of learning, connection, and inspiration. Whether discovering new materials, engaging with industry leaders, or celebrating groundbreaking collaborations, DESIGN ADAC is a must-attend event for anyone passionate about design.” 

From bold color statements and intricate craftsmanship to timeless minimalism with unexpected twists, DESIGN ADAC is a platform for pushing creative boundaries and embracing new perspectives. Attendees will gain insights from renowned industry voices through keynote guest presentations and panel discussions, engage directly with designers through Q+A’s and meet-and-greets, experience exclusive product launches, attend book signing mixers and networking events, and leave with fresh inspiration about the future of design. 

Below is a snapshot of some of the captivating keynote presentations and after-parties to expect at this year’s DESIGN ADAC: 

Tuesday, April 22

  • 10:00 a.m. – FROM MONTECITO TO NEW ENGLAND: THIS IS HOME WITH JEFFREY ALAN MARKS | ADAC Presentation Room First Floor Atrium  

Sponsored by VERANDA and Palecek

Interior designer, author, and “Million Dollar Decorators” personality Jeffrey Alan Marks is known for his relaxed sophistication and ease that transcend trends. In conversation with VERANDA Editor-in-Chief Steele Marcoux, the influential designer explores the meaning of home, instilling a sense of place and shifting client priorities for luxury residences. 

Please join Marks and Marcoux in the Palecek showroom for a reception following the presentation. Browse his furniture collection for Palecek and pick up a signed copy of his new book, “This is Home.”Palecek | Suite 207/210

  • 1:00 p.m. – MASTERING THE MIX | ADAC Presentation Room First Floor Atrium 

Sponsored by Southern Home and Paul +

Stylish, thoughtful, and eco-friendly – antiques are the perfect blend of familiarity and worldly sophistication. They have a few secrets from their travels and a story to tell. There is an art, or perhaps a science, to mastering the mix of antiques with fabrics and furnishings to create a fresh design – a room with a soul that transcends time. Southern Home Editor Lynn Terry will be moderating a discussion with design powerhouses Eric Ross, Carolyn Kendall, and Mark Simmons, who are renowned for crafting stunning interiors that convey a unique sense of belonging with their selections. Attendees will enjoy a fascinating discussion on the essential elements for creating beautifully designed, functional spaces that tell a unique story. 

Following the presentation, please join Ross, Kendall, Simmons and Terry at the Paul + showroom for a reception. Ross will be available to sign copies of his latest book “Embracing Southern Homes.”  Paul + | Suite 121

  • 3:00 p.m. – A NEW ERA OF LUXURY LIVING | ADAC Presentation Room First Floor Atrium 

Sponsored by Modern Luxury Interiors Southeast and Caracole

Modern Luxury Interiors Southeast invites guests to an inspiring keynote presentation as it embarks on an exciting new chapter in redefining luxury living. Explore the true essence of this luxe lifestyle with some extraordinary panelists who bring their distinctive Southern charm and creativity to the forefront of design: Brooke and Steve Giannetti of Patina Home & Garden; Stephanie Sabbe of Sabbe Interior Design; and Jason Arnold of Jason Arnold Interiors. Moderated by publisher Jenna Muller, this event will celebrate creativity, innovation, and connections within the luxury design community. 

Don’t miss the chance to mingle with Brooke Giannetti, Steve Gianetti, Sabbe, Arnold, and Muller at a reception hosted in the new Caracole showroom. Signed copies of Brooke and Steve’s latest book, “Patina Homes & Gardens,” and Sabbe’s debut book, “Interiors of a Storyteller” will be available. Also, grab a copy of the inaugural issue of Modern Luxury Interiors Southeast!  Caracole | Suite 141

  • 5:00 p.m. – CARACOLE GRAND OPENING | Caracole Suite 141 

Caracole invites design professionals and enthusiasts to celebrate the grand opening of its new showroom. This special event celebrates the creativity and joy that come from experiencing thoughtful design. The showroom will showcase fresh collections that combine artistry and functionality, offering endless inspiration for creating spaces that truly reflect individuality. 

Guests will be treated to an elevated champagne bar and passed hors d’oeuvres, alongside engaging interactive social experiences throughout the showroom, all set to the vibrant backdrop of a live DJ. This evening is an opportunity to connect with others, explore innovative designs, and celebrate the beauty of spaces that inspire. Join them for a night of discovery and delight at Caracole’s new showroom.  Caracole | Suite 141

Wednesday, April 23

  • 10:00 a.m. – AWARD-WINNING DESIGN: SHOWCASING PROJECTS FOR MAXIMUM IMPACT | ADAC Presentation Room First Floor Atrium 

Sponsored by GEORGIA DESIGN and Milieu 1928 

Award-winning design projects can be steppingstones in a career, boosting credibility and opening doors to new opportunities. But what does it take to garner a design award? And if you win, how can you most effectively capitalize on your accolades? Join GEORGIA DESIGN Editor-in-Chief Fran Worrall and award-winning interior designers Whitney Ray, Jenifer Mills, Lathem Gordon, and Cate Dunning for an insightful and entertaining conversation about how to submit design work so that it captures the attention of judges. Additionally, they will discuss how to market winning designs for maximum impact and visibility.  

Following the presentation, please join Ray, Mills, Gordon, Dunning, and Worrall for a reception at the new Milieu 1928 showroom and continue the conversation. While there, peruse Milieu 1928’s collection of designer-focused, custom game room furniture and game tables, including billiard tables, shuffleboards, poker tables, and more.  Milieu 1928 | Suite 502

  • 1:00 p.m. – THE POWER OF LONGEVITY | ADAC Presentation Room First Floor Atrium 

Sponsored by VERANDA and Made Goods

How do we merge tradition and preservation with modern priorities? Can we maximize the life cycle of the furniture and buildings we create today? And how do we help instill a culture of permanence in design? VERANDA Executive Editor Ellen McGauley leads a dynamic conversation on thoughtful, timeless design with architect Tim Barber, interior designer Caroline Gidiere, and furniture designer Oscar Yague. 

Join Barber, Gidiere, Yague, and McGauley at the Made Goods showroom for a reception post presentation; the signing of Gidiere’s new book, “Interiors for a Life in Good Taste;” and a look at Made Goods’ latest offerings.  Made Goods | Suite 403

Thursday, April 24

  • 10:00 a.m. – THE SCOPE OF A PROJECT: BEFORE, DURING AND AFTER | ADAC Presentation Room First Floor  

Sponsored by FREDERIC and Schumacher

Delve into the intriguing process of how designers work from the initial concept to the final stages of completing and photographing a project. Eugenia Soto, Design & Decoration Director of Frederic Magazine, will join designers Sally Wilkinson and Heather Chadduck Hillegas to discuss the process from project launch to finish, including the launching points that help kickstart a project into existence, the presentation stage, and how setting influences the design. Learn what happens while a project is underway, how designers transform their vision into reality – collaborating with artisans and manufacturers, and the various ways they make an interior sing. Lastly, the designers will discuss the final stages post-installation, including photography and styling. 

Following the presentation, Wilkinson, Hillegas, and Soto will continue the conversation at Schumacher. Guests can enjoy some light bites while perusing the latest offerings.  Schumacher | Suite 303

  • 1:00 p.m. – TIME-TESTED DESIGN: CREATING THE ULTIMATE CLASSIC HOME | ADAC Presentation Room First Floor Atrium 

Sponsored by Atlanta Homes & Lifestyles and Samuel & Sons

What are the secret ingredients to creating a character-rich, timeless home? Alongside Atlanta Homes & Lifestyles’ Editor-in-Chief Lauren Iverson, meet three design professionals – interior designer Beth Webb, architect Brandon Ingram, and landscape architect Jeremy Smearman – who have mastered the balance of past and present by combining time-tested architectural elements with a nuanced, personal design approach that culminate in homes that honor Atlanta’s rich history but live well for today. With their expertise, learn how to add interest and atmosphere into spaces with subtle but powerful details that reflect years passed through a fresh lens.  

After the presentation, please join Webb, Ingram, Smearman, and Iverson in the Samuel & Sons showroom for sips and light bites, plus a book signing with Webb for her new book, “Embracing Beauty: Serene Spaces for Living.” While in the showroom, guests can get inspired to dress up their own homes with the latest trim offerings from Samuel & Sons.  Samuel & Sons | Suite 311

The full 2025 schedule with event descriptions is live at www.adacatlanta.com. General registration for the 2025 DESIGN ADAC spring market is complimentary for all guests and opens on March 18. Click here for more information. 

WALDORF ASTORIA ATLANTA BUCKHEAD HOSTS BRIDGERTON-INSPIRED HIGH TEA – EXTENDED THROUGH END OF JULY

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 6/20/24

Waldorf Astoria Atlanta Buckhead hosts an exquisite afternoon tea experience inspired by the hit Netflix series Bridgerton. All guests will receive elevated treats, a complimentary welcome cocktail “Charlotte’s Diamond”, a selection of specially curated fine teas, and a few other themed surprises. Tickets are now available for purchase.


Featured themed bites include:

  1. Lady Danbury’s Éclair: Crème Patisserie, Lime and Mint Coulis, Lemon White
    chocolate Montèe and White Rum
  2. London Cucumber Tower: Yogurt, Dill, Cappers, Balsamic Pearls, Vienna White

WHERE:

Waldorf Astoria Atlanta Buckhead
3376 Peachtree Rd NE
Atlanta, GA 30326


Teas to be held on the first floor of Waldorf Astoria Atlanta Buckhead in the
newly-renovated Belvedere room.


WHEN:
Saturday, June 22nd, 12:30 PM and 3 PM
Sunday, June 23rd, 12:30 PM and 3 PM
Friday, June 28th, at 3 PM
Saturday, June 29th, 12:30 PM and 3 PM
Sunday, June 30th, 12:30 PM and 3 PM


COST:

Purchase tickets for $95 per person plus fees via OpenTable.
Complimentary valet parking available.

NAANSTOP THROWS SWEET HOLIDAY COOKIE-DECORATING PARTY ON DEC. 17

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 11/17/23

Popular Indian Eatery Gets into the Holiday Spirit in a Most Creative and Delicious Way

Atlantic Station and Buckhead 2-5pm

                          

NaanStop locations at Atlantic Station and in Buckhead invite guests to a jolly Holiday Cookie-Decorating Party on Sunday, Dec. 17. From 2-5 p.m., the popular Indian restaurant will provide complimentary chai-spiced sugar cookies, frosting, sprinkles and sparkles. All guests need to bring is their artistic skills and to be prepared to have some fun.

After creating a masterpiece, participants can cozy up with a classic or bourbon-spiked masala chai near the fire pit or under the patio heaters. NaanStop’s full menu of authentic Indian cuisine—including naanwiches, rice bowls and fresh salads—also will be available.

At Atlantic Station, guests can take advantage of free two-hour parking in the parking deck and are advised to park near elevator #5 and follow the signs by Publix.

HOLI CELEBRATION AT NAANSTOP BUCKHEAD

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 2/28/23

Saturday, 3/11 from noon to 3pm

NaanStop, the fast casual Indian eatery, invites guests to its Buckhead location for an inclusive, family-friendly Holi celebration from noon until 3 p.m. on Saturday, March 11. This special event will feature complimentary Holi powder, DJ/live performance and light snacks. In addition, guests can order from NaanStop’s full menu of naan wraps, rice bowls, fresh salads and more.

Chido & Padre

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 7/31/21

The multi-colored, vibrant tile juxtaposes to the white, teal, warm wood, and greenery of the updated Chido & Padre double decker patio. This spot has been a staple in the Buckhead community for a while and with a new menu and top to bottom stunning renovation, this spot is simply gorgeous. Whether you want to lounge on the plush couches, swing in one of the swings, or sit at a shady booth, you’ll feel like you’re in Mexico City enjoying a vacation! While you are there, we would recommend sipping on the earthy El Bad Bunny or sparkly Lambrusco Sangria, and tasting the refreshing Seasonal Crudo, Smoked Octopus Tostada, street corn, rich Pollo Con Mole or Carnitas, and dynamite Duck Sope. Let’s take a tour, shall we?

Every good tasting is paired with a good cocktail, wine or beer. We got several cocktail pairings and these were our favorite two! The Lambrusco Sangria was one of the most refreshing wine-forward drinks we’ve had in a while with a tangy, tart and sweet mixed together with a bold grapefruit on the back of the sip. Another great cocktail is the El Bad Bunny, which is a balance between smoky mezcal and smooth and sweet carrot. This one paired perfectly with the carrot dish! I’ll take another. Which sounds good to you?

We’re in love with Chido and Padres new menu! It’s authentic, unique and almost every dish we had top notch! Starting with some traditional items and sharable plates like the Street Corn and Queso Fundito. The Street Corn is some of the best in the city with a crunchy, warm, spicy, complex flavor. Plus, the seasoning and avocado really elevate the bite. In love.  Or if you’re in the mood for cheese or queso dip, look no further than the Queso Fundito, which is a great mix of creamy and sharp cheese with an array of toppings all paired with crunchy chips. Perfect for a cheese pull! 

As far as the sharable plates go, we had some great options that were unique takes on traditional dishes, like the Seasonal Crudo starts with a mild seasonal fish (Hamachi this time) paired with creamy avocado and tart pickled strawberry. The sauce makes this dish a combination of salty, fresh, crisp, and tart. Plus, when you order this ask for an off-menu cocktail. It mixes tequila with as much if the sauce you can get in the glass for an amazingly unique concoction! Our server came up with it and it’s so good. On the other hand, the Carnitas are a rich and tender pork shoulder that melts in your mouth! The sweet smoked meat is surrounded by a sweet avocado tomatillo and creamy and sharp sour cream. The entire dish is a good balance between meat and sauce. Roll it up into a tortilla. OMG.

Traditional not your thing and you want to spice it up? Don’t worry they have a laundry list of menu items just for that, the Smoked Octopus Tostada, is one of them. It is one of the favorite bites of the entire meal with its complexity. We were floored by the smoky, tender, and rich octopus dish with creamy avocado, crunchy tostada, while a good kick in the end. Add a little spicy arugula, mint and voila, you have one amazing bite, so get all the ingredients together! Plus, who doesn’t love a duck dish? The Duck Sope is a fun take on a classic meat with a generous amount of pulled duck that packs a punch, corn mesa cakes, and white peas. We recommend you eat all together for a spicy, rich, meaty bite. We cannot get over the mix of flavors and textures this dish puts on the plate.

If you’re looking for vegetarian, we’d recommend the Heirloom Carrots! They are perfectly cooked carrots that each had a different dynamic flavor profile paired with a cashew tahini that comes off like peanut butter! This is a wonderful mix between nutty, creamy, and earthy. One of the most unique dishes we’ve ever had!! Dynamite!  

Saving the best overall dish for last, we seriously cant’t get over the Pollo Con Mole which was our favorite bite! Succulent chicken that’s perfectly seasoned and slathered in a rich mole. Below the chicken is some of the best root vegetable hash ever filled with bacon and onions that’s earthy and tangy. The entire dish is sweet and smoky, tender and juicy, creamy, earthy, and slightly peanuty. Plus, the mole really ties all of it together, sauce, chicken, and hash.  We’re going back to get this one again!

Feeling stuffed, we couldn’t fathom trying desserts. But it was worth the pain to try this duo of desserts. GET THE CHESS PIE! It is warm caramel flavor followed by chocolate and the crunch of the crust. Then, the ice cream is icing in the cake. Divine. The donuts are also good and sweet potato based for more flavor. They are warm and salty balance! Elevate the flavor when you dip it in the chocolate sauce or take a sip of the Bailey’s Shot that accompanies it. Pro tip: we added the shot to the chocolate and that was a great way to enjoy both at the same time!

 

Are you ready to visit Chido & Padre? What sounds good to you?

 

Yebo Beach Haus: Island Oasis in Buckhead

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 6/25/21

 

The lavish patio is dotted with black, white and hints of color, while large lush palms overhang to create an island oasis you don’t have to travel to the beach to experience. This is Yebo Beach Haus! In the middle of the courtyard, a trickling water feature lulls you into the beauty of the space and invites you to stay for just one more cocktail. What ultimately matches the patio so well is Yebo’s tropical, South African, and beachy cuisine. Entrees and shareable plates like a whole branzino, tuna tataki, chicken paillard, ostrich sliders, seafood risotto, and tasty cocktails round out the amazing Yebo menu. Let’s take a tour.

 

While relaxing next to the sound of trickling water, we sipped on the BB Cooler and the Rosemary Vesper Martini. One of the most refreshing cocktails was the BB Cooler that is a bright patio drink with hints of fruit, tartness throughout the sip. It’s easily drinkable for an afternoon with the girlfriends, on the other hand is the boozy Rosemary Vesper Martini!  This one would be one Bond would approve of with boozy and earthy notes up front while the cool and crispness of the lemon comes through on the end. Pinkies up!

 

Yebo also prides itself on a myriad of sharable plates you can dip and snack on prior to your entrée. We delved into the Yebo Popcorn, Tuna Tataki, and Ostrich Sliders. We haven’t seen ostrich on a menu in forever, so we had to try it. The meat was perfectly cooked and seasoned and then paired with spicy arugula, cool, creamy mayo and a tomato dollop for a balancing tang. The entire thing came off mellow with no gaminess and was like a burger slider with just a lighter, leaner meat.

 

The favorite bite of the three was the Tuna Tataki. It was a delicate, light mild tuna with a crusty, well-seasoned edge all enveloped in creamy avocado and jalapeno for spice. Then, pour on the amount of savory and rich ponzu that you like, and you get even more flavor. The entire thing is on rice paper, so if you’re feeling rebellious, you could wrap the whole thing in it and eat it rolled up. Finally, if you’re looking for a nice, light snack, to enjoy while sipping a cocktail, the Yebo Popcorn is right up your alley. With the one-two punch of peri-peri seasoning and Parmesan, it’s a good all-around flavor and a great shareable treat.

 

Fish is the quintessential go-to entrée when you’re near the beach, right? Enter the Whole Branzino that is flaky, mild and tender, yet the skin is crispy and crunchy.  Plus, the addition of the jalapeño cilantro sauce that starts spicy and ends tangy, a good addition to the fish while the earthy asparagus and bright lemon drizzle is just icing on the cake for this dish. One of the best dishes of the entire experience. Hold on to that, because even though this was amazing, the Chicken Paillard was the overall favorite bite!  The meat is tender and juicy while bursting with a gamut of flavors and ending with a bold spiciness. The arugula, sauce, and accompanying vegetables are the perfect pair to add earthiness and a hint brightness. The best bite is to get all the elements together for a spicy, savory, earthy, tangy bite that doesn’t stop. We could have this every day.

 

When you go to the beach, what’s your go-to food?

The Southern Gentleman

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 1/7/21

Holding every door for you. Greet you with a genuine smile. Dressed to impress. Asking politely to hold your hand. With all that southern authenticity and charm, you’ll get this vibe from The Southern Gentleman in Buckhead!  From southern-inspired fancy fried chicken, divine duck, spicy shishito peppers, some fantastic signature cocktails, creamy potato gnocchi and a fun dessert, expect to be charmed by this one. Let’s not waste another minute. Who’s hungry?

Starting with the sips, we sampled the Nick’s Garden and The Upside Down. The favorite of the two was the Nick’s Garden because it was a vegetable forward cocktail with a ton of tasty flavor. With the earthiness of beets combining with the lemon, earthy gin, blackberry for tartness and honey for sweetness, this cocktail created a balanced sip from start to finish. Plus, it’s gorgeous! The Upside Down pays homage to the classic pina colada or pineapple upside down cake, take your pick. With pineapple the star of this cocktail, it combines lemon rhubarb bitters for some earthiness and tart that pairs well with the rum and pineapple. This one drinks like a tiki pineapple drink with a nice froth that is reminiscent of the beach.

To begin our meal, we tried three small plates that included the Homemade Buttermilk Rolls, Potato Gnocchi, and Blistered Shishito Peppers. Something you must get for your table are the Homemade Buttermilk Rolls because they’re not just any ordinary roll! They add bacon fat to them on top of the tender and buttery rolls, so that the bacon flavor lingers on the back of the bite. They’re something that you have to try, buttery, warm, meaty. Then, the potato gnocchi, tastes spot on to a loaded baked potato! With creamy, sharp sauce that is so rich and deep it engulfs the tender potato pillows. It ends up being sharp, creamy, yet soft and fluffy. All-around yum. Our favorite bite had to be the Blistered Shishito Peppers. We’ve never been a big fan of these peppers because they’re either bland or just not cooked right, but this dish changed our minds. Actually, our minds were blown how much this dish brought a hint of spice, the savory of the Bahn Mi vinaigrette broth, and the meatiness of the ham. We couldn’t stop eating because it started with a pop of the pepper skin, a slight earthiness, followed by spiciness, then cooled and brightened by the flavorful broth and ham. Must try.

Of the main dishes, the Honey-Glazed Duck and Buttermilk Fried Chicken stood out as the most interesting. Duck is an acquired taste for some but it’s divine for others, and we love our duck. The Honey-Glazed Duck didn’t disappoint with tender and slightly sweet duck perfectly paired with lemony forward sauce that brightened the savory of the jus. On the side, the creamed turnips were creamy, earthy and they hide the best surprise, the most amazing duck sausage we’ve ever put in our mouths! It was salty, hearty, and whatever you do we recommend you mix it with the creamed turnips and sauce. Divine duck IS RIGHT. As for the Buttermilk Fried Chicken, this beauty was pretty to behold, but also was fantastic to eat. The crunchy shell is glazed with a hot honey, all while masking a tender piece of white meat inside. Crunchy, spicy, sweet, and tender. Then, creamy, and mellow leaks accompany the heartiness and spice of the meat. Complex and good.

Staying for dessert, we decided that Pumpkin Spiced Donuts sounded like the perfect way to end our meal. They house make these donuts, fry them up, and top them with tons of cinnamon. On the side, coffee ice cream goes well with the crunch and cinnamon flavor of the donuts and is reminiscent of coffee and donuts in the morning. What a great way to end this meal. I do declare if this wasn’t a fantastic, well-round food adventure.