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CHEF PASQUALE “PAT” PASCARELLA ANNOUNCES UPCOMING OPENING OF OYSTER BAR “ALICI”

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 12/3/21

Specializing in Oysters, Seafood, & House made Pastas 

Set to Open in the new Midtown Promenade Development on the Beltline SUMMER-2022

 

Chef Pasquale “Pat” Pascarella announces the upcoming opening of Alici, an Amalfi Coast inspired Oyster bar specializing in oysters, seafood, house made pastas and more… Opening in SUMMER-2022, the restaurant will be located in Atlanta’s Midtown neighborhood near Piedmont Park on Monroe Drive.

With a focus on Mediterranean cuisine, the coastal Italian menu will feature a wide range of seasonal seafood focused dishes, as well as an extensive selection of oysters. Rotating house made pastas, risottos, and socca will round out the menu. Socca is an Italian chickpea pancake that will offer an interesting gluten free option and will be served with accompaniments like stracciatella, pistachios, figs and more! Our risotto will be cooked to order ensuring the freshest quality each time. Our fish will be the star of the show, simply cooked and served with your choice of sauce. Veggies will be cooked in the wood fired oven. The kitchen will take a from-scratch approach, providing guests with inventive dishes made with fresh, high-quality and wholesome ingredients sourced locally and from Italy. The beverage program will place emphasis on bubbly wine, white wine and light reds all sourced from coastal areas of Italy, as well as classic craft cocktails.

Offering an approachable, coastal feel, the restaurant will invite guests into a beautiful dining room that will make them feel as though they are on an ocean-side terrace in Italy looking at the beautiful Amalfi coast line. The minute you walk in the door, you will be met with the kitchen and fire coming from our wood fired oven. Move further in, to our oyster bar where the oyster selection will be on display and guests will be able to watch the plating process of the oysters and crudos. Huge front windows and a lively back patio will bring the outdoors in, giving the space an airy and open feel. The interior design will take you to the Amalfi coast’s rustic and organic lifestyle, right here in the heart of Atlanta.

Walking off the Beltline, guests will be greeted with a fresh botanical environment that will flow seamlessly with the vibrancy of the area. Alici will offer 110 seats inside and out, providing guests with an intimate experience where people will want to eat and drink all night long.

Chef Pat Pascarella will lead the kitchen. With two homerun restaurants under his belt at White Bull in Decatur and Grana that opened last year in Piedmont Heights. The White Bull, a much-acclaimed, farm-forward restaurant located on Decatur’s historic square. The White Bull has been named Best New Restaurant by Creative Loafing and Best Farm to Table Restaurant by Atlanta Magazine, and both the food and cocktail programs have been recognized in local and national publications, including Garden & Gun, Eater, Condé Nast Traveler, Thrillist, The Atlanta Journal-Constitution and more. Grana has graced the top of many best of Italian food lists, best patio, and best pizza lists. He brings two decades of experience to Alici and draws expertise from a culinary background that includes serving as Executive Chef at Atlanta’s The Optimist and as Executive Chef and Owner of his renowned Italian restaurant Bar Sugo in Norwalk, Connecticut. Prior, Pat cooked in Manhattan at restaurants including Eric Ripert’s Michelin-starred Le Bernardin, Mario Batali restaurants and he also worked for Scott Conant.

“I’m very excited to open Alici. Amalfi owns my heart and I can’t wait to bring authentic coastal Italian cuisine to Atlanta. I have two good passions in life, Italian food and seafood and it’s about time I bring them together!” – Chef Pat Pascarella

931 Monroe Drive NE
Atlanta, GA 30308

HOLIDAY POP-UP AND EVENT GUIDE 2021

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 11/15/21

Round-up on all the holiday pop-ups around Atlanta.

The Blind Elf

Blind Pig Parlour, opening night, Friday, November 12th

Opening Mid-November – The Blitzen Room at Biltong Bar

Biltong Bar at Ponce City Market and Buckhead Village are “Up to Snow Good” as they transform their spaces for the third annual holiday pop-up: The Blitzen Room. The restaurants will feature swanky, vintage Christmas decor and seasonally themed cocktails from Chartreuse Hot Chocolate to Frozen Egg Nog.

Opening Fri., Nov. 26 – Holiday Social Bar on The Roof

Just inside the tower lobby, the Holiday Social Bar will welcome Roof-goers with an over-the-top experience bursting with whimsical decor and holiday drinks. 

Opening Fri., Nov. 26 – MixMas at 12 Cocktail Bar

12 Cocktail Bar is celebrating the season with a Mixmas cocktail menu including returning favorite “Sleigh Fuel,” a spiked coffee eggnog made with Old Grand-Dad Bourbon, plus new holiday-inspired cocktails. Reservations are highly recommended and can be made at 12cocktailbar.com.  

Fri., Nov. 26 – Sun., Jan. 2 – Atlanta’s Annual German Christkindl Market

Buckhead Village announces it will be home to The German American Cultural Foundation’s 2021 German Christkindl Market. Open to the public from Friday, November 26, 2021 through Sunday, January 2, 2022, the German holiday market will be located on the corner of North Fulton and Buckhead Avenue (309 Buckhead Ave) and feature over 50 vendors offering food and beverage treats and items to shop, plus live music and entertainment on the weekends. Market hours will be 11:30am-9:30pm Sunday through Thursday and 11:30am-10:30pm on Friday and Saturday.

Georgia Festival of Trees – Tuesday, November 30 – Saturday, December 4

The Georgia Festival of Trees is a special five-day holiday event for all ages and includes a beautiful forest of dazzling holiday trees, unique gift shops, local treat vendors, and much more! Check out their site for all the events.

Mingle & Jingle Bar at Best End Brewing – Now through December 31st

Best End is welcoming back the very FIRST & ONLY pop-up Christmas Bar in the West End of Atlanta, GA.  Nestled right off the SW trail of the BeltLine in the Flamingo Room at Best End Brewing Company, 1036 White Street SW, Atlanta GA 30310.  Chef & Founding Partner Cory Burke and Events Engineer Suzanne Dieter are excited to celebrate the holidays with the third installment of the Mingle & Jingle Christmas Bar. From Christmas tchotchkes to a life-size hugging bear, to miles of tinsel garland, to an Instagram-worthy Bow Wall and Giant Wreath, you’ll find all the Christmas feels to make the holiday season a little less stressful.  Upon entering Mingle & Jingle, the first thing you’ll notice is Suzanne’s obvious love of all things sparkly and shiny. Curling ribbon glistens and tumbles off the light fixtures over the bar and miles of tinsel garland are woven through the rafters to create an intimate holiday setting out of a spacious room. The mid-century modern glassware sparkles on the decorated shelves behind the bar looks fantastic in a photo taken in front of the large bow wall or wreath.

Truck & Tap Duluth’s Christmas Bar – December 4th through the holidays.

This year, Truck and Tap Duluth will be doing a National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation themed Christmas Bar, starting Dec 4th.

Hampton + Hudson’s Mountain Lodge – December 14 through December 30

This holiday season, Hampton + Hudson, the community bar and restaurant in Atlanta’s Inman Park neighborhood offering elevated pub food, craft cocktails, beer and wine, will host a Mountain Lodge Pop-up to celebrate the most joyful and cozy time of year from Tuesday, December 14 through Thursday, December 30. The pop-up will be open 6-11pm nightly, and walk-ins are welcome. Centered around creative cocktails, the pop-up will be located on the restaurant’s mezzanine level and welcome guests to step into the comforting and cozy lodge atmosphere. Servers will don checkered flannel and merrily serve holiday cocktails like classic Tom & Jerry’s, Tequila Eggnog and Hot Buttered Cider with duck fat caramel. Guests can also get the party going with Rumplemintz and Fernet Menta Shotskis served up on sets of wooden skis. To pair, guests can order fun snacks like tableside s’mores, a limited edition Apple Cider Doughnut from Sublime Doughnuts, classic poutine and a croque madame. 

Ravinia’s Holiday in Lights – Thursday, December 16th. Free.

See gorgeous light displays, listen to live music, drink hot chocolate, spot Santa and more at this community celebration. Registration on Ravinia’s Facebook page is encouraged. The event is free to attend, but will also serve as a donation center for the Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta’s Children’s Holiday Wish List program. Guests can bring a donation the night of the event, or drop off a donation before the event in one of three lobbies at Ravinia. A drop-off location will also be available at the main entrance of the Crowne Plaza Atlanta Perimeter Hotel. 5 pm to 8 pm.

HAMPTON + HUDSON TO HOST MOUNTAIN LODGE POP-UP FOR THE HOLIDAYS

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 12/3/21

Centered Around Creative Cocktails, Pop-Up will Also Feature Tableside S’mores & Fun Snacks to Pair

 

Open December 14-30 from 6-11pm Nightly

 

This holiday season, Hampton + Hudson, the community bar and restaurant in Atlanta’s Inman Park neighborhood offering elevated pub food, craft cocktails, beer and wine, will host a Mountain Lodge Pop-up to celebrate the most joyful and cozy time of year from Tuesday, December 14 through Thursday, December 30. The pop-up will be open 6-11pm nightly, and walk-ins are welcome.

 

Centered around creative cocktails, the pop-up will be located on the restaurant’s mezzanine level and welcome guests to step into the comforting and cozy lodge atmosphere. Servers will don checkered flannel and merrily serve holiday cocktails like classic Tom & Jerry’s, Tequila Eggnog and Hot Buttered Cider with duck fat caramel. Guests can also get the party going with Rumplemintz and Fernet Menta Shotskis served up on sets of wooden skis. To pair, guests can order fun snacks like tableside s’mores, a limited edition Apple Cider Doughnut from Sublime Doughnuts, classic poutine and a croque madame. 

EPICUREAN HOTEL, EPICUREAN THEATRE UPCOMING EVENTS 2021

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 11/15/21

USE SPECIAL CODE ADVENTURES10 for 10% OFF YOUR TICKETS

Around the Holiday Table

Saturday, November 20 4 to 6 pm at Epicurean Theatre

$130 per ticket, find them here.

AROUND THE HOLIDAY TABLE: A SOUTHERN SOIREE

Curated and presented by renowned chef Jennifer Hill Booker who has a penchant for blending classic Southern cooking with traditional French methods and ingredients, you’ll be inspired to bring these ideas to your own holiday table. Featuring four paired courses (and a seasonal spice mix to take-home and share with family!) this is a “thanksgiving meal” you won’t want to miss!

MENU

Wild Mushroom Galette

Autumn Salad with Cranberry Vinaigrette

Roasted Turkey with Cornbread & Sage Dressing

Sweet Potato Roulade with Ginger Cream

*wine pairings provided to accompany each course

ABOUT THE CHEF

Southern-born, Chef Jennifer Booker’s culinary path has not always been a linear one. She earned her Bachelor’s Degree from the University of Tulsa; eighteen months later graduated first in her class with an Associate of Occupational Science from Oklahoma State Institute of Technology. Extensive travel while married to a United States Army Officer pushed Jennifer to blaze a trail that fit her unique situation-a female African American chef, living abroad. As a result, her first culinary company Your Resident Gourmet was born. During her time living in Germany, Jennifer honed her culinary talents by providing cooking classes for both military and German families. She was also able to fulfill a lifelong dream of attending Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts in Paris, where she proudly graduated top of her class. Twenty years later Jennifer finds herself once again blazing culinary trails as she wears many culinary hats as chef, reality TV personality, culinary educator, business owner and cookbook author. She is an Impact Fellow with the James Beard Foundation, a Georgia Grown Executive Chef for the GA Department of Agriculture, the Culinary Explorer for the Georgia Department of Tourism and Travel, and is the founder of Cast Iron Chronicles dinner series. Chef Jennifer is the Vice President of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion of the prestigious Atlanta chapter of Les Dames d’Escoffier International, a member of SlowFood-Atlanta and of Atlanta’s No Kid Hungry Atlanta Society and currently sits on the James Beard Foundation Scholarship Committee. Weaving her love of traditional Southern cuisine with her belief in incorporating healthy, seasonal foods and her classic French training, Chef Jennifer created a unique style of cooking that she terms ‘Modern Southern Healthy Cuisine with a French Accent’. Chef Jennifer shares this brand of cooking through her cooking segment ‘Chef Jenn to the Rescue,’ on CBS46’s Atlanta Plugged In, many television appearances, with original recipes in such publications as Waste Not Cookbook, Southern Living Magazine, Garden & Gun and Essence Magazine as well as her Food Network debut as a finalist on Cutthroat Kitchen. Her cookbooks, Dinner Déjà Vu: Southern Tonight, French Tomorrow, Field Peas to Foie Gras: Southern Recipes with a French Accent, and her first illustrated children’s book; Jelly Fries A Fish For Dinner, are available at many national retailers including Arcadia Publishing Company, Walmart and Amazon.

Chef Jennifer’s newest kitchen resources Cookcentric Cookbook Journals, (available on Amazon) and her Your Resident Gourmet Cooks! Spice Line (available on her website) include fan favorites such as Deep South SeasonAll, Baby It’s Cold Outside Chili Seasoning and Shimmer Sugar Cocktail Rimmer. Chef Jennifer spends her free time in her kitchen, vegetable garden, or at her local farmers market. She currently resides in Georgia with her two daughters Jenelle and Regine and their CorgieJack, Pudge.

PARKING

Complimentary 3-hour valet validation is provided.

*Gratuity is already included in ticket price. Tax will apply during checkout.

Rum Revolution

Friday, December 3 7 to 9 pm, Epicurean Theatre

$125, tickets here.

Rum, the “first spirit of America,” dates back to the beginning of our nation. From historic cocktails that our forefathers sipped on to today’s commonly consumed libation, rum has a rich history. Where the past and present meet is Campesino, a modern brand with an equally as rich story. Campesino Rum was founded by Hatton Smith with the mission to start a rum revolution getting the general public to re-imagine the way they think about rum.

In this tasting and pairing experience, learn about the history, flavors and distilling process of rum and what the future holds for the outlaws and catalysts leading the charge.

MENU

Coming soon!

ABOUT THE TALENT

Hatton Smith (Campesino Rum, Nashville, TN)

Hatton Smith, Campesino Rum founder, was born in Birmingham, Alabama in 1993. At the age of 19, he moved to Panama to live off the grid in a remote area along the Pacora River to explore the Charges Panamanian National Forest. Three years later on a return visit to Panama, he came to find a 125 gallon rum still had been left in the jungle at the base of an old hiking trail. Hatton built a bed beside the still and began illegally distilling and selling his product out of the jungle for the next two years. At the age of 25, he moved back to the US and founded Campesino Rum with the mission to start a rum revolution getting the general public to re-imagine the way they think about rum. Hatton creates aged rum blends from the world’s finest rum distilleries without the usage of additives such as sugar, color, flavors or blending materials. Hatton is an avid skydiver, outdoorsman and beverage enthusiast who currently resides in Nashville, TN where he acts as President and CEO of Campesino Rum.

THANKSGIVING ROUND-UP 2021

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 11/15/21

A round-up of all things Thanksgiving.

Hampton + Hudson’s Thanksgiving To-Go + Thanksgiving Day Offering

The community bar and grill will open at 6pm on Thanksgiving Day and offer a limited menu until 11pm, featuring burgers, mac & cheese, wings, fries and a Thanksgiving Place Special. For $25, the plate includes sliced turkey with gravy, stuffing, mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, green bean casserole, a roll and pumpkin pie cheesecake. Items can also be ordered individually as sides, and the restaurant will offer drink specials and play the evening’s football games on all TVs.

Just Announced! – Le Bilboquet’s Thanksgiving Offering

Le Bilboquet will be open from noon to 8pm on Thanksgiving Day and serve a three-course prix fixe menu to enjoy at the restaurant or to-go. Menu highlights include Wagyu Beef Tartare and Butternut Squash & Mushroom Velouté for starters, Pan Seared Tuna Loin with barbeque sauce, orange segments, diced tomatoes, black olives & micro cilantro, and Traditional Roasted Turkey with homemade stuffing, cranberry sauce, mashed potatoes, sauteed brussel sprouts butternut squash, celeriac confit & gravy on the entree side and Almond Pear Tart with Caramel Ice Cream for dessert. The menu here is $85 per adult; a kid’s menu is $25 per child. To-go orders will be accepted through November 21 at 5pm.

Dantanna’s Thanksgiving To-Go
Take the stress of preparing the perfect feast away and let Dantanna’s do the cooking this Thanksgiving. Spend more quality time with friends and family this year and take home a fully prepared, delicious meal to feed up to four people. For $189, diners can delight in a traditional, three-course Thanksgiving meal and choose a soup or salad, four sides, and a whole bird flavored with a choice of roasted sage butter, house rubbed and slow smoked hickory, or flash-fried in zero trans-fat soybean oil. Satisfy sweet tooth cravings with a choice of apple cobbler or pumpkin pie for dessert. All orders must be placed online at dantannas.com by November 15, 2021. Dantanna’s Buckhead is located at the Shops Around Lenox, 3400 around Lenox Road NE #304, Atlanta, GA 30326. For more information, visit www.dantannas.com or call 404.760.8873. 

Dantannas Thanksgiving To-Go Menu: 

Soup or Salad
(Choose One) 
Caesar Salad 
House Salad 
Chicken & Sausage Gumbo
Seafood Stew 

Turkey 
Whole Turkey (12 lb. average) 
(Choice of: sage butter roasted, house rubbed and slow hickory smoked, or flash-fried in zero trans-fat soybean oil) 
House-Made Cranberry Sauce 
Yeast Rolls 
Brown Gravy 

Sides
(Choose Four) 
Dressing 
Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes 
Green Beans 
Brussel Sprouts 
Southern Fried Corn 
Whipped Sweet Potatoes

Dessert
(Choose One) 
Apple Cobbler 
Pumpkin Pie
 
STK Thanksgiving
 
here is always something to be thankful for at STK Atlanta, especially a decadent Thanksgiving meal. Beginning on Thursday, November 25 through Sunday, November 28, 2021, guests are invited to indulge in Thanksgiving specials in a chic, high-energy atmosphere or take it to-go. Known for its signature and seasonal offerings, STK will be serving a roasted free range Turkey with all the trimmings, including cornbread, sage stuffing, shallot and thyme confit thighs, sautéed green beans, maple baked sweet potato, Yukon gold mashed potatoes, classic gravy, and cranberry-orange chutney for $59 per person. The little turkeys, 12 and under, can also enjoy these offerings for $29. Finishing the holiday on a sweet note, a slice of delicious spiced pumpkin pie candied with ginger cream and crunchy caramel honeycomb is available for $12 per slice. Those wanting to relax at home can order a takeout dinner for two for $119, which includes a slice of pie. Pre-orders begin on Monday, November 15th, and must be picked up on Thanksgiving Day, Thursday, November 25th, during select times. Thanksgiving Day hours are 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. with a live DJ starting at noon so guests can toast to the holiday season. 
 
For more information, to make a reservation or place an order, visit https://stksteakhouse.com/venues/atlanta/ or call 404-793-0144.
Mindy Osler 

Now Available for Pre-Order! – Thanksgiving Pies at South Main Kitchen

For Thanksgiving this year, guests can pre-order a variety of fresh, homemade pies from Pastry Chef Elise Vitale. Guests have the choice of Apple Pie for $30, Chocolate Pumpkin Brûlée for $25 and Bourbon Steen’s Pecan Pie for $25, or pre-order all three for $70. Orders can be placed over the phone or by emailing info@southmainkitchen.com.

Holiday Offerings at Cremalosa

The gelateria from gelato master and acclaimed Atlanta food writer Meridith Ford in Decatur is excited to announce its holiday offerings for Thanksgiving and throughout December. The gelateria is featuring The Cremalosa Holiday Marketplace, presenting fresh and frozen baked goods to enjoy throughout the season and at holiday meals, plus seasonal gelato flavors, an affogato bar and a warming fire pit on the patio. The Marketplace offers cinnamon buns, mini pies, holiday cookie bars and special holiday-themed gelato cakes, in addition to holiday gelato flavors such as Gingersnap, Maple Mascarpone, Spice Cake and Orange Vanilla. Items are now available in-house in a limited amount and can be pre-ordered online at Cremalosa.com. 

For Thanksgiving, Hummingbird Cakes – a Southern favorite filled with Maple Mascarpone gelato – and mini pumpkin pies will be available for purchase in the shop Wednesday, November 17 through Wednesday, November 24, on a first come, first served basis. From December 1 through 23, Peppermint Fudge Brownies, mini pecan pies, cinnamon buns and Gelato Spice Cakes filled with Vanilla-Orange gelato will be available for in-store purchases or pre-order online. Plus, White Chocolate Peppermint gelato will make its debut in December.

Sugar Factory Milkshake!

November, Sugar Factory Atlanta has rolled out its Gobble Gobble Milkshake- a decadent pumpkin spice shake that tastes like fall in a glass. This milkshake combines velvety smooth vanilla ice cream and chunks of homemade pumpkin pie. It’s served in a milk chocolate ganache coated mug, decorated with candy pumpkins and topped with a slice of pumpkin pie, whipped cream and a dark chocolate turkey. This dessert combines two of fall’s most iconic desserts: pumpkin pie and ice cream! 

Atlas + The Garden Room

Atlas at St. Regis will be offering a $145 per person Thanksgiving dine-in, three-course feast including choices like choices like oyster Rockefeller, turkey with truffle mousse, pumpkin risotto, and pumpkin pie. Each guest will be given turkey, stuffing, gravy + bread to be able to make a “leftovers” sandwich the next day, recipe card included. There will also be 3 levels of wine pairings available, pricing varies by level. The Garden Room will also be open with a la carte options and a family-style turkey available to order for the table. Both Atlas and The Garden Room open at 4 p.m. Call 404-600-6471 or make online reservations at Atlas and Garden Room.

Varuni Napoli

The Varuni at-home pizza kit is available for purchase for $80 and includes a can of Varuni branded tomatoes, 4 balls of dough, flour, basil, Pecorino Romano, buffalo mozzarella, EVOO imported from Sorrento and detailed instructions from Chef Luca himself. Patrons can purchase by calling 404-709-2690 at least 24-hrs in advance, pick up at Midtown location only. Additionally, Varuni offers a Varuni holiday bundle with the pizza kit, 6-pack cannoli kit and a 6-pack to-go cocktail pack for $165, as well as a 6-pack cannoli $30, 12-pack cannoli $50 and 6-pack to-go cocktails $70 individually. Same ordering and picking up instructions.

­Vinings Jubilee’s Southern Baked Pie

Ordering for Thanksgiving pies is now open, and they have lots of yummy offerings to pick from like Salted Caramel Dutch Apple Pie, Caramel Pecan Pie, Pumpkin Pie, Apple Pie, and even savory pies as well! There are physical locations in Vinings Jubilee, Gainsville, Alpharetta and Buckhead, and online ordering is available too. For online ordering arrival by Thanksgiving, patrons must select Nov. 15, 16, or 17 for ship date.

Vinings Jubilee’s Whimsy Cookie Co.

Vinings Jubilee’s Whimsy Cookie Co. is offering custom decorated Thanksgiving cookies like pumpkins, leaves, turkeys and more! Four day noticed needed for Thanksgiving pre-orders. Pick up before noon on Wednesday, Nov. 24.

Vinings Jubilee’s Paces & Vine

Make your reservations now for a Thanksgiving Day celebratory feast. Paces & Vine will be featuring a traditional family-style Thanksgiving dinner, including turkey, mashed potatoes, croissants, fall salad, pumpkin pie, and more, from 12-6 p.m. The cost is $65 per adult, $25 per kid ages 6-12 and $55 for to-go.

Atlas: Four Hands Collaboration

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 11/8/21

The moment you walk into the St. Regis, you’re greeted with a towering chandelier and sweeping staircase leading you to a dimly lit library with a sprawling illuminated bar and intimate tables filled with couples and friends smiling over delicious dishes. At Atlas, there are three words to describe it: impeccable, perfection, opulent. This does not only describe the ambiance, but some of the best food in all of Atlanta. The night we went was during the Four Hands collaboration 7-course tasting menu that married the genius of Chef Money and Chef Paul Liebrandt, the guest chef, in one miraculous meal. It’s a culinary masterpiece with the beautiful plating, scrumptious tastes, wonderful wine pairings, and the best white-glove service. This is definitely one to remember and we want to share the details with you.

 

When you arrive and sit down at your table, they immediately send over treats before you get your meal, like the Foie Gras Bon Bon, the “Cloud”, Puff Pastry, and Liquid Olive. Being about one bite each, the perfect little tastes are packed with flavors like the foie gras is rich and meaty, the cloud is earthy and literally melts in your mouth, while the puff pastry is dill forward and crispy, and the liquid olive was smooth with a little bit of olive on the end. We think the cloud was the best with the balance of cheese and beet flavor and were very impressed with the liquid olive, not too strong.

 

The first course is the Golden Caviar. Starting out, they place the caviar from their exclusive collection on the trout and accompany it with a tuna belly and a fantastic aioli. The caviar itself is a wonderful mix of saltiness and slight fish that accompanies that perfect pop. Underneath is the light, silky trout and juxtaposes the earthy micro greens. On the side, the crispy lightly fried tuna belly is perfection with a tasty creamy and earthy aioli for dipping. This course (and the next two) was paired with a delicate Rose champagne that is light and crisp to go with the lightness of the fish and caviar.

 

On to the second course, we got the Beets, which were paired with preserved plums and soft goat cheese. On top, the earthy and tangy beets are frozen in a ball then below is a moat of cheese, plums, and roasted beets that you can mix up together to get an amazing earthy, creamy, tangy bite. This one was so much fun to eat, a real treat.

 

Just behind this course, was the Scallops, but we opted for the Hamachi Crudo instead since we don’t eat shellfish. The presentation on this one was the absolute best of the entire meal. Served on a hand plate, it felt “hand delivered” to you! The fish is served raw but is so tender, it literally melts in your mouth and goes flawlessly with the creamy avocado, bright citrus vinaigrette, and amazing cold cilantro jalapeno sauce. In love with all the flavors creamy, earthy, spicy, bright, and add the crunchy beet flakes for one of the best bites of the night.

 

Moving on the fourth course where we got to pair a perfect poached cod and a bright Chablis. One of the best poached cods we’ve ever had, it was fall-apart tender. It’s light and mellow and pairs so well with the multiple forms of grapes that accompany this dish. The sweet and tart of the grape gives this little number an earthy and tart with a slightly salty end. The Chablis on the other hand was acidic that juxtaposed the sweet and salty of the dish. Just perfect.

 

When you didn’t think it couldn’t get any better, course five knocked it out of the park with the Westholme Wagyu. Buttery, slightly charred, and melt-in-your mouth wagyu that was too tender and delicious to even use the Italian knife they let us pick out. Topped with a candied fig that gives the meat a sweet, brown sugar, earthy, and tart bite on top of the already perfectly cooked wagyu. On the opposite end of the plate is a too beautiful to eat flower and gelatin concoction. It adds the right amount of creaminess. Overall, when you mix all the flavors together you get a creamy, rich, sweet, salty and a myriad of other flavors that let’s you know this IS the dish to remember. Paired with a heavy Cabernet is just right.

 

On to the dessert portion, they brought out course six, the Green Apple palate cleanser. They pour a citrus green apple sauce over this frozen, green apple treat for a boost of brightness. The entire dish is earthy and crisp with a complex mix of tartness and nuttiness from the pistachios, granola, diced apples, and mandarin. Then, for the finale, the Vol Au Vent is a decadent, crispy, bold bite. With layers of flaky pastry and bold caramel and apple flavor all around. Then, on the side, a rare dessert wine ice cream is boozy and sweet that goes well with the bold apple and caramel flavors. Paired with a Royal Hungarian dessert wine is rich and drinks like brown sugar, what a great sip with the dessert.

 

As a thanks, the Chefs brought out Petit fours after our meal. These candies are so fun, what looked like an Oreo, matcha gummies, and more. Just like these gifts, the entire meal is a total gift from beginning to end. From the delicious meal to the best service, it was one to remember.

 

Would you go to Atlas for a tasting menu?

MILTON RESTAURANT WEEK 2021

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 11/7/21

 November 5th to November 13th

Milton-based agency, Rountree Group Integrated Communications, has announced its second annual Milton Restaurant Week (MRW), a week-long tasting event (Nov. 5 – 13) to showcase Milton restaurants through food, fellowship, and spirits. The culinary affair attracts food lovers from surrounding North Fulton communities, while giving its sponsors a chance to promote special menus and venues.

 The event initially began in 2020 as a way to support local restaurants during the pandemic. “The idea began in Fall 2019 and was launched in the middle of the COVID-19 pandemic to help support our restaurant community,” said Don Rountree, president of Rountree Group and founder of Milton Restaurant Week. “We launched the MRW website and social handles to give local restaurants an opportunity to showcase offerings and communicate how/when they are serving our community,” Rountree said.

 Sponsoring this year’s Milton Restaurant Week, the City of Milton and Crabapple Market will be alongside a few other local businesses including:

 Milton Business Council

Olde Blind Dog Irish Pub

7 Acre BarNGrill

Milton’s Cuisine & Cocktails

The Union Restaurant

Kathleen’s Catch

This year’s participating restaurants hope to impress guests by featuring several of their most popular lunch and dinner dishes, along with specialty crafted cocktails. Visitors will have the option to try new cuisine from four sponsoring restaurants at a discounted price as part of the week-long event. The selections will include cuisine ranging from pristine Southern dishes to classic Irish favorites.

The organizers hope this year’s event will be even better than the last. “Meals are a time to gather, to socialize and to engage with each other,” said Rountree. The communications agency has partnered with several local restaurants over the last decade to support its community and local businesses.

 Milton, GA has been consistently highly ranked due to its prestige living community and accompanying local businesses. The thriving culinary scene has been known to contribute to the appeal of the North Fulton neighborhood. MRW is one of a few events Rountree Group has organized to support the Milton community.

“Milton offers a variety of foods from southern favorites to craft cocktails. I for one enjoy date nights, family favorites and celebrating milestones right around the corner from our home or office. We love our local partners so supporting local restaurants just makes sense. Live, work, play… and EAT,” said Ben Huard of GO Agency, GNFCC Chairman Circle Member and Founding Member of Milton Business Council.

Those interested will be able to stay updated on participating restaurants and specific details @miltonrestaurantweek on Instagram and Facebook.

Barcelona Wine Bar: The Date Night Spot

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 10/25/21

The metal, wood, and soft hues from the setting sun enveloped the Barcelona Wine Bar Westside wrap-around patio. At the bar a couple chat over a shared bottle of red wine with an assortment of small plates. Now this is date night done right with the ambiance, impeccable food, and endless wine bottle list, all meant for sharing. We imbibed on the fantastic Aperitivo Board, bubbly BarCava, spicy Grilled Pulpo, great Grilled Broccolini, divine Potato Tortilla, creamy Jamon & Manchego Croquetas, and finished it off with crispy calamari. Who’s ready to go on a Friday night date night?

Sipping on some bubbly, the BarCava is an exclusive sparkling wine made just for Barcelona. It’s bright, tart, and crisp with tons of bubbles. A must try. To go with our wine, we started with the Aperitivo Board, which was an assortment of tasty Serrano, Feut, Mahon, tangy and creamy Patatas Bravas, spicy peppers, buttery almost, and sharp and creamy Manchego. You can mix and match in any combination, which we both loved the Serrano with the Manchego and a dollop of the spicy mustard on top.

Something that we love about Barcelona is the small plates that’s perfect to sharing. You can try more of the extensive menu this way and explore a variety of flavors. You can get everything from light dishes like the pulpo to decadent like the Potato Tortilla to hearty, fried calamari. Speaking of the dishes, one of our favorites was the Potato Tortilla. This fun dish is served like a piece of pie and starts creamy and sharp and then melts in your mouth. We found this dish eye-roll good from the richness of the cream and potato to the earthiness and tang of the chive dip on the side.

After that hearty dish, we went a little lighter with the Grilled Pulpo and Grilled Broccolini. The octopus is simply grilled and tender and topped with a mix of olives, tomatoes, and a spicy bright vinaigrette. It’s a spicy, earthy, and tender dish! On the other hand, the broccolini is slightly crunchy with a fresh, fantastic lemon aioli that comes off as bright and creamy. Impeccably paired with crispy capers for an earthy bite on the end.

To end the night our tour around the Barcelona menu, we tried the Jamon & Manchego Croquetas and the Crisp Calamari. The Croquetas are crunchy, rich, creamy, and oh-so gooey. All of the complex flavors that all go so well together. Go bold or go home, right? We ended with the Crisp Calamari. This fried goodness is the right amount of light crunch and tender squid. Juxtaposed with a tart, tangy and bright dipping sauce for the perfect bite.

What would you want to try?

GERMAN BIERFEST ATLANTA 2021

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 10/24/21

Woodruff Park

Saturday, November 6th 1pm

Tickets: here.

Join us on Saturday, November 6th for the next edition of German Bierfest at the beautiful Woodruff Park in the heart of the City of Atlanta. From 1:00pm – 6:00pm enjoy complimentary German Bier and Wine tastings (over 50 varieties), authentic music performances, and fun bier themed activations.
Atlanta area German restaurants and food vendors will serve up authentic cuisine such as bratwurst, döners, pretzels, sauerkraut, schnitzel, and more!
GA Tickets Include:
* Souvenir German Bier Fest Tasting Glass
* Complimentary German Bier and Wine Sampling (50+ varieties)
* DJ and Music
* Food Available for Purchase
VIP Tickets Include:
* 1 hour early admission (12:00pm)
* Souvenir German Bier Fest Tasting Glass
* Additional Limited Edition Souvenir Glass
* Private Restrooms
* Complimentary Catering
* German Bierfest Souvenir Shirt
* Specialty Access Biers
* German Bier Tasting Sessions
* Complimentary German Bier and Wine Tastings (50+ varieties)
* DJ and Music
GA Pricing Information:
Regular ticket prices increase from $45 – $54 in advance and $60 at the door (if available)
VIP Pricing Information:
Regular ticket prices increase from $110 in advance and $120 at the door (if available)

CHIRINGA’S 3RD-ANNIVERSARY WEEKEND

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 10/15/21

Chiringa’s 3rd-Anniversary Weekend

Thursday, October 14th – Surf N Turf Fall Concert Series with Suburban Angst from 7:30 p.m. to 10 p.m.
CHIRINGA and Home Town Mortgage have joined forces to bring to a tidal wave of melodies to downtown Alpharetta with a special 3-Year Anniversary Surf N Turf Concert Series. On Thursday, October 14th, revelers can admire the charming Town Green Fountain and brand new, luscious astroturf while jamming out to Suburban Angst, an “altimate” rock tribute band that electrifies everyones favorite alternative tunes, from 7:30 p.m. to 10 p.m.
 
Saturday, October 16th – College Football on the Big Screen:
Big games need big screens! On Saturday, October 16th, CHIRINGA and Home Town Mortgage are continuing the 3-year weekend celebration with college football on a giant mobile LED wall that makes fans feel like they’re right on the field. Free to attend and for all ages, football fanatics are invited to tailgate on the green while watching the Florida Gators vs. LSU Tigers game at 12:00 p.m., Kentucky Wildcats vs. Georgia Bulldogs game at 3:30 p.m. and Alabama Crimson Tide vs. Mississippi State Bulldogs game at 7:00 p.m.
Sunday, October 17th – Live Music with Josh Jeffords from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Ending the 3-year weekend celebration with melodies flowing through CHIRINGA’s breezy patio, Josh Jeffords will start strumming beach happy tunes from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday, October 17th.