Tag Archive for: food festival

GRAND TASTING MIDTOWN 2026

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 9/22/26

Taste of Atlanta Presents Grand Tasting Midtown October 15 with 25+ Restaurants, Unlimited Tastings and Live Culinary Demonstrations at Epicurean Atlanta

Midtown Atlanta’s culinary scene will take center stage this fall as Taste of Atlanta presents Grand Tasting Midtown, an all-inclusive celebration of the restaurants, chefs, and sips that make Midtown one of the city’s most dynamic dining destinations. The event takes place Thursday, October 15, from 6 to 10 p.m. at Epicurean Atlanta 1117 West Peachtree Street, bringing together more than 25 of the area’s top restaurants for one unforgettable evening both inside and outdoors.

Guests will savor signature dishes from Midtown’s most talked-about restaurants, discover exciting new dining destinations, enjoy beloved favorites and meet the talented chefs shaping Atlanta’s culinary scene – all included with one ticket. Taking over the ninth floor of the culinary-themed hotel, Grand Tasting Midtown will transform the hotel’s ballroom and sparkling pool area into an unforgettable culinary celebration, complete with a moonlit skyline view from the open-air greenspace and live music by The Happy Hour, an Atlanta-based trio known for putting a modern spin on rock and roll.

All-inclusive VIP and General Admission tickets include:

  • VIP Admission includes early entry at 6 p.m. and a VIP swag bag (limit one per household). 
  • All ticket holders receive unlimited tastes and access to multiple bars featuring local beer, wine and craft cocktail tastings.
  • Fun-filled, live entertainment with The Happy Hour and DJ 
  • All attendees will enjoy voting for their favorite food, dessert and beverage. Best of awards will include: best taste, best dessert and best beverage.
  • All guests must be 21+ to enter and show ID. No refunds or exchanges. Strollers are not permitted. 
  • The event takes place indoors and outdoors, rain or shine. 
  • Ride Share preferred. Paid self parking and valet parking available at the Epicurean.

Absolutely. Since Monti is both emceeing and cooking, I’d avoid calling all three “chefs” in the opening sentence. I think this version is cleaner and actually makes the three women’s roles more compelling:

Step Inside the Culinary Theatre

One of the evening’s must-see experiences will unfold inside the Culinary Theatre at Epicurean Atlanta, where two powerhouse women from Atlanta’s culinary scene will take the stage for lively demonstrations showcasing the talent, techniques and personalities that make the city’s food scene so exciting. Atlanta Journal-Constitution Senior Editor of Food & Dining Monti Carlo will emcee the evening, bringing her signature energy and insider perspective to the chef and mixology demonstrations. Monti will also cook from her new cookbook, Spanglish, a vibrant tribute to Puerto Rican cuisine and culture. Joining her on stage are Executive Chef Andrea Montobbio, who will open ENZO Steakhouse & Bar at the Epicurean this winter. Guests can sign up for a seat at check-in and get an up-close look as these talented women share their culinary know-how. Before each demonstration, a Grand Tasting Midtown spirit sponsor will shake up cocktails for the audience to enjoy throughout the presentation.

A Taste of Midtown, All Under One Roof

The 2026 restaurant lineup includes; Bell Street Burritos, Boqueria, Brasserie Lundi, Chicheria Mexican Kitchen, Cupcakin’ Bake Shop, Das BBQ, Delilah’s Everyday Soul, Eclipse di Luna Restaurant & Tapas Bar, Estrellita Filipino, Enzo Steakhouse & Bar, Ghee Indian Kitchen, Hartley Kitchen & Cocktails, Hattie B’s Hot Chicken, Ikara Flavorful Fragrance of India, Lewis Barbecue, Marcus Bar & Grille, Taffers Tavern, The Melting Pot, Snooze, Tandoori Pizza and Wing Co., Woody’s Cheesesteaks and Your 3rd Spot. 

Grateful to Our Sponsors

Guests will also enjoy a wide selection of local beer, craft cocktail and premium wine tastes with more than a dozen beverage tastings available throughout the evening all made possible thanks to our sponsors.

Grand Tasting Midtown is made possible through the support of its sponsors, including Epicurean Atlanta, Publix, Coca-Cola, Emory University Hospital Midtown, Tito’s Handmade Vodka, Smartwater, Society Insurance, Absolut., Grand Marnier, Edmond’s Honor, Leyenda De Mexico, The Macallan, Tequila Código, Cutwater, Belvedere Dirty Brew, Deep Eddy Vodka, Elijah Craig, Señorita, Rhythm, ClariVise Private Wealth, Heritage Steel, Classic Tents & Events, Prima, and Jamaica.

Media sponsors include, Rough Draft Atlanta, Atlanta InTown, Atlanta Homes & Lifestyles, Best Self, Jezebel, The Atlantan, My Midtown, Georgia Voice, Jezebel, 680 The Fan, News Talk Xtra 106.3, Smooth Jazz 101.1, Restaurant Informer, and Vue Atlanta.

The event also continues Taste of Atlanta’s commitment to giving back through its partnership with Second Helpings Atlanta, a nonprofit organization working to rescue surplus food and provide prepared meals to people experiencing food insecurity.

23RD ANNUAL PARTY IN THE KITCHEN

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 6/22/26

Atlanta’s Culinary Community Comes Together for Open Hand Atlanta’s
23rd Annual Party in the Kitchen, Sept. 24
Beloved culinary fundraiser brings together the city’s top chefs, exclusive experiences
and supporters to advance Open Hand’s mission

Open Hand Atlanta invites supporters to its 23rd annual Party in the Kitchen fundraiser on Thursday, Sept. 24, from 6:30 PM to 10:30 PM at The Foundry at Puritan Mill. Recognized as one of Atlanta’s premier culinary fundraising events, Party in the Kitchen will bring together Atlanta’s most celebrated chefs, an exclusive auction experience and hundreds of supporters for an evening that fuels Open Hand’s life-changing nutrition programs across Georgia.

Guests will sample signature dishes from some of Atlanta’s most acclaimed chefs, enjoy live entertainment and bid on exclusive silent auction opportunities. Returning as Chef Co-Chairs, renowned chefs Kevin Rathbun and Peter Kaiser are joined by Event Co-Chairs Robert Candler and Charles Mendez III, as well as a lineup of participating chefs from some of Atlanta’s most celebrated kitchens, including The Deer and The Dove Chef Terry Koval, KR SteakBar Chef Jessica Gamble, and Tiny Lou’s Chef Jason Stern, with additional chefs and culinary talent to be announced.

“The impact we’ve built over the last two decades with the Atlanta culinary community is extraordinary,” said Open Hand CEO Matthew Pieper. “Party in the Kitchen continues to celebrate the best of our city, from delicious food to incredible generosity. It’s a cornerstone in supporting the life-changing nutrition services Open Hand provides to thousands of Georgians every year.”

The event’s silent auction will feature coveted packages ranging from luxury travel experiences and premier Atlanta entertainment experiences to exclusive chef-curated dining opportunities.

Ahead of the Main Event, Open Hand will host an exclusive Patron Reception on Saturday, Aug. 22, from 6:30 PM to 9:00 PM at its Westside headquarters, the James A. Carlos Family Community Nutrition Center. Patron Reception guests will enjoy an intimate evening of culinary tastings from acclaimed Atlanta restaurants while touring Open Hand’s state-of-the-art facility and seeing firsthand how community support powers the organization’s mission.

Proceeds from Party in the Kitchen directly support Open Hand’s programs, which provide medically tailored meals and nutrition education, free of charge, to individuals facing chronic or severe illness across Georgia. Individual tickets to the Main Event are available for $400. Patron Reception admission packages begin at $1,250 and include access to both events.

For more information or to purchase tickets, visit OpenHandAtlanta.org/PITK.

SWEET AUBURN BARBECUE BRINGS BACK GOOD LUCK SMOKE SHOW THIS MAY WITH AN AWARD-WINNING LINEUP OF CHEFS WORTH TRAVELING FOR

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 4/22/26

The Second Annual Street Party Meets Tasting Event Returns to Poncey-Highland with an Expanded Chef Lineup, Cocktails, and Live Entertainment

Tickets Now Available for Wednesday, May 20, 2026

Atlanta-based Sweet Auburn Barbecue brings back Good Luck Smoke Show on Wednesday, May 20, a one-night celebration timed with Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month that brings together an award-winning mix of chefs for an evening of food, music, culture, and block party energy.

Now in its second year, Good Luck Smoke Show expands with more than 15 chef tasting stations, alongside cocktails from Minhwa Spirits, plus beer and wine, with lion dancers, live music, a rooftop DJ, and local artists shaping the night into a food-driven block party. A portion of proceeds benefits We Love BuHi, supporting small businesses and cultural vibrancy along Buford Highway, one of Atlanta’s most diverse corridors.

Led by Anita and Howard Hsu, the siblings behind Sweet Auburn Barbecue, Tio Lucho’s, Gezzo’s and Lazy Betty, who have built their reputation by approaching Southern barbecue through the lens of their Chinese American upbringing. Good Luck Smoke Show continues that approach, bringing together a dynamic lineup of chefs whose work reflects their own backgrounds and experiences.

The 2026 lineup includes Michelin-recognized and James Beard–nominated chefs, alongside a mix of local and visiting talent. Eric Huang (Pecking House, New York, NY), Doron Wong (Cha Cha Tang, New York, NY), and Vish Mayekar (ELEM, Vancouver, BC) are joined by Ron Hsu (Lazy Betty) and Howard Hsu (Sweet Auburn Barbecue, Tio Lucho’s, Lazy Betty), as well as Brian So (Spring, Marietta, GA), Viv Lee (Leftie Lee’s), and Jiyeon Lee and Cody Taylor (Heirloom Market BBQ), alongside Jay Patel (Dhaba BBQ), Pete Amadhanirundr (Puma Yu’s, Athens, GA), Parnass Savang (Talat Market), Henryk Kumar (Dank’s Deli), Zheng Li (Concept Luna), Andy Xia (Xi’an Gourmet House), and GULA Indonesian Desserts & Snacks. Minhwa Spirits will feature food tastings led by Lino Yi, paired with cocktails from James Sung.

“Food has always been how we tell our story,” says Howard Hsu. “For a lot of us, it’s tied to family, culture, and where we come from, but it’s also about where we are now. Good Luck Smoke Show is about bringing those voices together, chefs cooking from experience, not expectation, and giving them a place to share that in Atlanta.”

Good Luck Smoke Show takes place Wednesday, May 20, 2026, from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Sweet Auburn Barbecue, 656 N. Highland Avenue NE. General admission tickets start at $85, with VIP options up to $115, including a signed copy of Chef Ron Hsu’s new cookbook, DOWN SOUTH + EAST. All tickets include unlimited select food and beverages. Tickets are available for purchase at sweetauburnbbq.com. For updates, stay connected on Instagram at @sweetauburnbbq. 

A special thanks to 2026 sponsors Minhwa Spirits, True Gas, Pure Chilean, Señorita THC, Rhythm THC, The Peters Team, Coca-Cola, and Topo Chico.

STEAMHOUSE LOUNGE PRESENTS THE 38TH ANNUAL OYSTERFEST

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 1/22/26

An Atlanta Tradition Brings Two Days of Oysters, Drinks, and Live Music Back to Midtown, Benefiting The Atlanta Leadership Project, Shells To Shore, and Giving Kitchen

Tickets on Sale Now

February 21 & 22

Midtown’s most beloved winter tradition is back and ready to shuck things up once again as the 38thAnnual Steamhouse Lounge Oysterfest returns on Saturday, February 21, and Sunday, February 22, 2026. Produced by Rival Entertainment and known far and wide as Atlanta’s Original Oysterfest, this legendary two-day street party invites seafood lovers and good-time chasers to gather for a weekend built on briny bites, cold drinks, and (mostly) good decisions.

From the very first crack of the shell, Oysterfest makes one thing clear—this festival is serious about seafood. Revelers can dig into heaping buckets of fresh roasted oysters, savor chargrilled oysters layered with garlic and parmesan, warm up with a Lowcountry shrimp boil, devour fried oyster po’boys, and raise a cup to Steamhouse Lounge’s iconic lobster bisque, flowing all weekend long. Music hums, the full bar stays buzzing and as the grills sizzle, the scent of the sea fills the air, setting the tone for a tradition that’s been perfecting the art of a perfect winter weekend for nearly four decades.

Located steps from Steamhouse Lounge’s legendary beach house at 11th and West Peachtree, Atlanta’s original Oysterfest will once again bring music from across the country to the streets of Midtown, keeping the rhythm as fresh as the oysters. Saturday’s lineup features performances from Francisco Vidal, Family Truckster, Tyler Neal Band, Classic City Jukebox, and Nashville Nation, and Sunday will showcase Francisco Vidal, Andrew Holley, Hallpass, and Mo Lowda & the Humble.

Weekend tickets to the 38th annual Steamhouse Lounge Oysterfest are on sale now for $25, plus fees, and include two days of live music. Fresh oysters, seafood from the Louisiana Gulf Coast, Steamhouse’s legendary lobster bisque, and beverages are available for purchase at bars and stations throughout the festival grounds. Advance tickets, displayed on smartphones, 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. All attendees over 12 are required to have a ticket for entry on both days. 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 38th 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.

WHAT:             38th Annual Steamhouse Lounge Oysterfest

WHEN:            Saturday, February 21, 11 a.m. – 7 p.m.

                        Sunday, February 22, 11 a.m. – 6 p.m.

WHERE:         1093 Peachtree Street NE, Atlanta, GA 30309

                        Event Entrance is located at Peachtree Street & 12th Street,

                        two blocks from Steamhouse Lounge.

COST:             $25 for Saturday and Sunday.

                        Tickets are available at www.steamhouselounge.com.

CONNECT:     Website: www.steamhouselounge.com

                        Instagram: @steamhouselounge

                        Facebook: www.facebook.com/steamhouselounge

BENEFITING: Atlanta Leadership Project – atlantaleadershipclub.org

                        Shells to Shore – www.shelltoshore.com

                        Giving Kitchen – thegivingkitchen.org

SPONSORS:  Presented by Tito’s Handmade Vodka, Narragansett, Shock Top, New Belgium Voodoo Ranger, and Fontis.

ATLANTA HALAL FALL FESTIVAL DEBUTS THIS NOVEMBER 

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 11/6/25

Cultural Celebration Launches Late Fall Experience Just in Time for the Season of Gathering, Giving, + Gratitude


WHAT:
Atlanta Halal Fall Festival
WHEN:
Saturday, Nov. 22 + Sunday, Nov. 23 | 12 p.m. to 9 p.m.
WHERE:
Grant Park I 840 Cherokee Ave. SE, Atlanta, GA
TICKETS:
FREE tickets available on Eventbrite
INFO:
Please visit the website + Instagram page (@atlhalalfallfest)

This fall, families, friends, and food lovers are invited to join a lively new celebration of halal flavors, culture, and connection at the first-ever Atlanta Halal Fall Festival. The two-day event will feature a wide range of food vendors serving authentic halal cuisine, an artisan market with various types of goods, and plenty of family fun, including a dedicated kids’ zone.

The Atlanta Halal Fall Festival is hosted by the Atlanta Muslim Festival Collective, an organization dedicated to hosting events that bring Muslims and non-Muslims together to celebrate the richness of Muslim culture and identity. Everyone is welcome and invited to learn more about, participate in, and enjoy the cultural elements showcased at AMFC events, which also include the Atlanta Ramadan Food Festival, which took place in March of this year, and Atlanta’s first official halal food festival, the Atlanta Summer Halal Food Festival that was at Atlantic Station.

“We’re incredibly excited to introduce the Atlanta Halal Fall Festival to the city, especially after the overwhelming positive response we received from our previous events this year,” said Hasnain Lakhani, Co-Founder of AMFC, Atlanta restaurateur, and entrepreneur. “It’s truly a passion for our team to continue bringing authentic cultural experiences to the city, and with tons of delicious food options, retail vendors, and family activities, we’ve made sure the Atlanta Halal Fall Festival will be an unforgettable event for all who attend.”

This year, admission to the 2025 Fall Festival is completely free to the public in the spirit of giving, providing a fun space for community gathering and the opportunity for attendees to purchase clothing, jewelry, fragrances, and other gifts from the festival’s artisan market vendors, especially with holidays like Thanksgiving and shopping holidays like Black Friday taking place only a few days after the festival.

“As we round out the year, we really wanted to give back with not only a wonderful event for the community to connect and gather,” said Lakhani. “We really wanted to spotlight our artist market and vendors as they move into the holiday season and traditional festivals wrap up for the season.”

Over 50 food vendors will offer dishes from across the Middle East and beyond at the Atlanta Fall Halal Festival, allowing guests to explore a rich mix of global cuisines. Returning vendor favorites from the Atlanta Summer Halal Festival include Yemini coffee shop 967 Coffee Co., Pakistani cuisine-centered Khaana By Saima, Indonesian restaurant Dragon Delite, Uzbekistani eatery Laghman Express, and Mediterranean restaurant Shawarma Factory. New local picks include Jay’s Deli, Ponko Chicken, and Yaba’s Bagels. From sizzling kabobs and savory rice dishes to indulgent desserts, fresh baked goods, and refreshing drinks, all cuisine served at the Atlanta Halal Fall Festival will be prepared in accordance with halal values, meaning made with care, integrity, and respect for halal dietary values. With its bold flavors and wide variety, halal cuisine offers something for every palate, from comforting, familiar favorites to exciting new dishes waiting to be discovered.

Along with an exciting mix of delicious dishes, the festival will offer complimentary water, live entertainment featuring Atlanta performers and cultural acts, a dedicated kids’ zone, and a vibrant artisan market featuring art, clothing, fragrance, and jewelry merchants, along with handmade goods from local businesses. The festival’s convenient Grant Park location also makes it easy for families and other attendees to visit Zoo Atlanta before or after the event.

Admission to the Atlanta Halal Fall Festival is free, with complimentary tickets available on Eventbrite for estimated event attendance. Atlantans of all backgrounds are encouraged to show up, enjoy the festival, and participate in the community experience. For more information on the event, please visit the website here. Follow along on Instagram (@atlhalalfallfest) for all the latest details, including vendor announcements, entertainment schedule details, and more. Photos and interviews with Atlanta Halal Fall Festival Co-Founder Hasnain Lakhani are available upon request.

The Atlanta Halal Fall Festival is sponsored by (Gold): Cenvi, Cravova, Islamic Relief USA and (Silver): BurgerFi, Shah’s Halal Food, The Phone Doctor.

A FEAST FOR ALL: ATLANTA’S INAUGURAL HALAL FOOD FESTIVAL ARRIVES THIS SUMMER

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 6/26/25

A One-Day Celebration of Halal Cuisine, Live Entertainment, + Family Fun – Saturday, July 19, 2025 | Tickets On Sale Now


WHAT: Atlanta Summer Halal Food Festival
WHEN: Saturday, July 19 I Noon to 7 p.m.
WHERE: Atlantic Station Pinnacle Lot | 221 20th St., Atlanta, GA 30363
TICKETS: Tickets are available here. Details on ticket packages are below.
INFO: Please visit the website here and @atlsummerhalalfoodfest on Instagram
 

Get ready, food lovers: Atlanta’s first-ever halal food festival is firing up the city’s summer scene on Saturday, July 19 at Atlantic Station. The Atlanta Summer Halal Food Festival promises a full day of flavor, culture, and community, all centered around halal cuisine and inclusive celebration.
 
Created by the Atlanta Muslim Festival Collective (AMFC), the festival brings Atlantans of all backgrounds together to enjoy halal food, local culture, and shared experiences. With more than 50 mouthwatering food vendors from across the Southeast, guests can explore a rich mix of global cuisines, from sizzling kabobs and gourmet burgers to indulgent desserts and refreshing drinks, all prepared in accordance with halal values, meaning made with care, integrity, and respect for halal dietary values. Like the care behind kosher or plant-based dishes, halal cuisine is something that everyone is welcome to delight in, and many foodies have likely already enjoyed halal foods before, especially in the Atlanta food scene. With its bold flavors and wide variety, halal cuisine offers something for every palate, from comforting favorites to exciting new dishes waiting to be discovered. Through educational signage and short video content, the festival will explain what halal means and reinforce that it is welcoming to everyone.
 
“It feels incredible to introduce the first halal food festival to Atlanta,” said Hasnain Lakhani, Festival Co-Founder + Atlanta restauranteur and entrepreneur. “As a lifelong metro Atlanta resident, I’ve always felt deeply connected to this community—from planning smaller events like the Atlanta Ramadan Food Festival to running local culinary and real estate businesses. This festival is a natural extension of that work. It’s a chance for both Muslims and non-Muslims to come together, celebrate our city’s diversity, and experience the vibrant culture and flavor of halal cuisine. We’ve brought together an incredible lineup of small and first-time business vendors offering not just food, but unique goods and experiences for everyone to enjoy.”
 
In addition to food, the festival will offer complimentary water, live entertainment featuring Atlanta performers and cultural acts, family-friendly games, a petting zoo, a dedicated kids’ area and a vibrant artisan market featuring handmade goods from local businesses. A scenic photo booth will be set up for families and friends to capture special moments together, and a portion of the proceeds will benefit local charities and community initiatives.
 
TICKET DETAILS:
Tickets are now available here. Admission includes access to the full festival experience, including 50+ halal food vendors, live performances, games, interactive activities, and the artisan market. Tickets include customized paper hand fans and RFID wristbands with scannable QR codes linking to a free photo gallery, a memorable and functional souvenir for every attendee. Children ages 7 and under receive free entry. All other attendees are encouraged to purchase tickets in advance, as this event is expected to sell out. Final ticket prices will include the pricing listed below with taxes and fees.
 

  • General Admission – $25
    Includes full access to the festival from noon to 7 p.m. Enjoy food vendors, live entertainment, kids’ activities, and more.
  • 2-for-1 Deal – $25 for two tickets (Limited time only)
    Bring a friend and save! This limited time offer includes two general admission tickets for the price of one.
  • Family Pack – Buy 4, Get 1 Free (Limited time only)
    Perfect for groups! Buy four general admission tickets and receive a fifth ticket at no extra cost.
  • Student Ticket – $13
    Discounted entry available with a valid student ID. Enjoy the full festival experience at nearly half the price.

 
For more information on the event, please visit the website here. A full schedule of entertainment programming and a complete list of vendors will be announced soon. Follow along on Instagram (@atlsummerhalalfoodfest) for all the latest details, including vendor announcements, schedule details, and more. 

TASTE OF ATLANTA PRESENTS GRAND TASTING ALPHARETTA

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 6/20/25

Thursday, August 28, 2025

Subscribe to Taste of Atlanta Bite of News and save $30!

Tickets on Sale Now

Get ready, Alpharetta! Taste of Atlanta is bringing the flavor, flair, and fun back for summer 2025 with Grand Tasting Alpharetta on Thursday, August 28, 2025, from 6:00 pm to 10:00 pm at the ever-stylish The Hotel at Avalon, 9000 Avalon Boulevard, Alpharetta, GA 30009. This exclusive, all-inclusive event will showcase a curated line-up of more than 20 of Alpharetta’s most talked-about restaurants, offering attendees a unique opportunity to indulge in local culinary bites, spirited sips, and energetic entertainment all in Alpharetta’s most premier destination.

Event Highlights:

  • All-Inclusive Tastings: Enjoy unlimited food and dessert tastings from Alpharetta’s top restaurants, featuring a diverse array of cuisines and signature dishes.
  • Beverage Experiences: Savor various wine, beer, craft cocktails, and nonalcoholic tastings curated to complement the evening’s culinary offerings.
  • Live Entertainment: Groove out with your fellow guests to a live band who are sure to create an energetic atmosphere throughout the evening.
  • Publix Cooking Stage: Local chefs and mixologists present live demonstrations for attendees

Ticket Information:

  • Become a Taste of Atlanta: Bite of News subscriber and automatically save $30 off of one General Admission ticket! Tickets go on sale Wednesday, June 18.
  • VIP Ticket $125Early entry at 6:00 PM includes a VIP Swag Bag (limit one per household), VIP seating area, all-inclusive food and dessert tastings, multiple bars featuring local beers, wine, and craft cocktail tastings, live chef and mixology demonstrations.
  • General Admission Ticket $95 Entry starts at 7:00 pm. All-inclusive food and dessert tastings, multiple bars featuring local beers, wine, and craft cocktail tastings, live chef and mixology demonstrations.

Participating Restaurants:

Cattle Shed Wine & Steak Bar, Colletta, Fogón and Lions, Foundation Social Eatery, Jinya Ramen Bar, Jim N Nicks BBQ, Melting Pot, Minnie Olivia Pizzeria, Nahm Fine Thai Cuisine, Oak, Ocean & Acre, Rumi’s Kitchen, Secreto Kitchen & Bar, Shake Shack, Snooze Alpharetta, Nothing Bundt Cakes and more!

Participating Sponsors:

Grand Tasting Alpharetta is made possible through the generous support and energy of our dedicated sponsors; The Hotel at Avalon, Publix, Coca-Cola Zero Sugar, United BMW, Smart Water, Tito’s Handmade Vodka, Society Insurance, Mary Dowling Whisky, Aperol, Fizzy Jane’s, Herb & Bloom, Altos Tequila, Absolut Vodka, Aplomo Tea, Solomon Brothers Jewelers, Deep Eddy Vodka, Lunazul Tequila, Jamaica tourism, Delta Vacations, Mate Beverage, Mom Water, Diplomático Rum, Savannah Distributing Company, Classic Tents & Events, and Prima Flyers.

This year, Grand Tasting Alpharetta has partnered with Second Helpings Atlanta, a nonprofit organization dedicated to diverting surplus food from landfills and delivering thousands of prepared meals weekly to those in need. Their mission to fight hunger and reduce food waste aligns with the values of the Grand Tasting event. A portion of the event proceeds will support their initiatives.

BLACK LICORICE PRESENTS “SMOKE A PEACH” – AN EXTRAVAGANZA OF GEORGIA FLAVOR

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 6/12/25

Saturday, July 12th at 4pm

Tucker Brewing

Black Licorice is turning up the heat this summer with Smoke a Peach, a one-day celebration of all things smoky, peachy, and perfectly Southern. The event takes place on Saturday, July 12th at 4:00 PM at Tucker Brewing Co., bringing together the best of Georgia flavor and sound. 

Guests can expect a full day of indulgence featuring smoked meats by Frazie’s Meat & Market, an array of peach-inspired dishes, and craft beer — including Tucker Brewing’s very own peach brew — plus seasonal cocktails to beat the heat. 

The live music lineup is stacked with Georgia flair. Kicking things off is Magnolia Express, bringing bluegrass energy to set the tone, followed by a tribute to the legendary Allman Brothers by Atlanta’s own Steele Peach Band as the evening rolls in. 

Tickets include: 

● Unlimited access to food tastings 

● Two drink tickets 

● Full live music lineup 

● Free onsite parking 

Early bird tickets start at $40 and are available now at smokeapeach.com. Prices increase to $45 starting June 12th. 

Whether you’re a peach fanatic, BBQ lover, or just here for the vibes — Smoke a Peach is the can’t-miss summer event of the season.

SWEET AUBURN BARBECUE PRESENTS THE FIRST-EVER GOOD LUCK SMOKESHOW

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 4/18/25

Nationally Renowned Asian Chefs and Pitmasters Unite in Atlanta for a Flavor-Packed Food Festival Benefitting Asian American Voices for Education

Wednesday, May 14, 2025 at 5 p.m.

On Wednesday, May 14, 2025, Sweet Auburn Barbecue is shutting down the street and firing things up for the first-ever Good Luck Smokeshow — a one-night tasting event honoring Asian American stories, flavors, and firepower. Timed with AAPI Heritage Month, this outdoor celebration brings together acclaimed chefs from across the country to throw down in Atlanta with food, drinks, lion dances, live music, and a community that shows up.

Hosted by Anita and Howard Hsu— siblings, second-generation Chinese Americans, and pioneers in Atlanta’s hospitality scene. What started as a family-run food truck in the Sweet Auburn Curb Market has grown into two beloved brick-and-mortars and a reputation for redefining what Southern barbecue can be. The Hsus have always led with their roots, and Good Luck Smokeshow is an extension of that legacy: a gathering of chefs who aren’t just making great food — they’re telling their stories on their own terms.

The lineup features heavy hitters from James Beard-recognized talent to rising voices, including:

– Nikko Cagalanan (Kultura, Charleston): A 2024 James Beard finalist, Chef Nikko Cagalanan blends his Filipino heritage with fine dining experience to create soulful, inventive dishes. His Charleston restaurant, Kultura—opened in 2023 with his wife and business partner Paula Kramer—was named South Carolina Restaurant of the Year and earned national acclaim. 

– Quy Hoang & Robin Wong (Blood Bros. BBQ, Houston): James Beard nominees and Texas Monthly Top 50 BBQ honorees, Blood Bros. is led by pitmaster Quy Hoang and brothers Terry and Robin Wong. Their smoked meats are a bold blend of Texas tradition and Southeast Asian flavors, rooted in their Vietnamese and Chinese heritage.

– J Chong (Asheville): Chef J Chong is known for heartfelt, straightforward Cantonese cooking that connects people through food. Through pop-ups and private dinners, she brings an authentic taste of Cantonese cuisine to Western North Carolina. A proud queer Asian activist, J uses both her voice and her food to advocate for LGBTQ+, BIPOC, and AAPI communities.

– Peter Nguyen (Lê Madeline, Boston): Named Eater Boston’s 2024 Chef of the Year, Peter Nguyen brings a fresh, modern perspective to Vietnamese cuisine. His food is rooted in heritage, delivered with precision, and never loses its edge or authenticity.

– Thai Changthong (P Thai’s Khao Man Gai and Noodles, Austin): Born in Bangkok, Chef Thai Changthong brings bold, street-style flavors and deep family roots to every dish. At P Thai’s Khao Man Gai and Noodles, he channels the spirit of Bangkok’s Chinatown with unapologetic, tradition-driven Thai-Chinese cooking.

And that’s just the start. Local Atlanta favorites including Leftie Lee’s, Soupbelly, Brian So (Spring), Salty Smiles, So So Fed, and Hapa ATL will also be bringing the heat, alongside show stopping performances, rooftop tunes and standout cocktails powered by Minhwa Spirits and Sweet Auburn Barbecue.

Expect lion dances, kung fu demos, community vendors, and a room (or block) full of people who know what’s up. Tickets are $125 and include all tastings, drinks, and full access to the experience and can be purchased at www.sweetauburnbbq.com/events-1/good-luck-smokeshow. A portion of proceeds benefits Asian American Voices for Education, supporting more inclusive curriculum in Georgia schools.

SIP BROOKHAVEN RETURNS APRIL 12TH WITH EXCITING NEW FOOD AND DRINK PAIRING STATIONS

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 3/17/25

Presented by Explore Brookhaven and the City of Brookhaven 

Mark your calendars and prepare your taste buds for the return of Sip Brookhaven 2025, happening on Saturday, April 12, at the Quad at Oglethorpe University. This year, the highly anticipated event is taking indulgence to a new level by introducing food and drink pairing stations, where the best local restaurants and chefs team up with top-tier beer, wine, spirits, and craft cocktail brands to showcase unforgettable flavor pairings. 

Attendees will enjoy a culinary journey through Brookhaven’s vibrant food and drink scene,  savoring small bites from beloved local eateries paired perfectly with premium beverages. This  unique twist adds an elevated experience for foodies and drink enthusiasts alike, making Sip  Brookhaven the must-attend event of the spring. 

Details at a Glance: 

• What: Sip Brookhaven 2025 

• When: Saturday, April 12, 2025 from 3:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.  

• Where: The Quad at Oglethorpe University 

• Tickets: Early bird tickets are $65 through February 28. Prices increase to $75 on  March 1, and tickets will be $85 at the gate on the day of the event. 

• Purchase Tickets: Tickets can be purchased on Eventbrite at  

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/sip-brookhaven-tickets-1021722979937?utm campaign=social&utm-content=attendeeshare&utm-medium=discovery&utm term=listing&utm-source=cp&aff=ebdsshcopyurl. 

“Sip Brookhaven has become a signature celebration of our community’s culinary excellence  and dynamic atmosphere,” said Renee Areng, President & CEO of Explore Brookhaven. “This  year’s food and drink pairing stations will bring an exciting new dimension to the event,  highlighting the creativity and talent of our local chefs and beverage partners.” 

Whether you’re a foodie, a craft beverage enthusiast, or simply looking for a lively weekend  activity, Sip Brookhaven has something for everyone. Attendees will also enjoy live music, a  festive atmosphere, and the opportunity to mingle with fellow food lovers on the lawn in The  Quad at Oglethorpe University. 

Tickets are expected to sell out quickly. Purchase yours today to secure your spot and save with  early bird pricing. Follow Explore Brookhaven on social media for event updates, participating  restaurants and beverage partners, and other announcements. For more information about Sip Brookhaven 2025 or other events in Brookhaven, visit Explore  Brookhaven’s website.