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35TH ANNUAL STEAMHOUSE LOUNGE OYSTERFEST

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 2/5/23

Saturday, February 25 and Sunday, February 26

Atlanta’s Original Oysterfest Returns to Midtown for Two Days of Live Music, Cold Brews, Fresh Seafood and More Tickets Now Available; Benefiting Atlanta Leadership Club and Shells to Shore

Get ready for a shucking good time as the original Steamhouse Lounge Oysterfest returns to Midtown Atlanta for its 35th year on Saturday, February 25th, and Sunday, February 26th. Produced by Rival Entertainment, seafood lovers can indulge in heaping buckets of roasted oysters, chargrilled oysters on the half-shell with garlic and butter, Steamhouse’s legendary lobster bisque, fried oyster po’boys, ice-cold beer, cocktails, and much more.

Located just two blocks from the Steamhouse Lounge’s iconic beach house on the corner of 11th and West Peachtree, Atlanta’s original Oysterfest will showcase musical talent from across the country in perfect tune with the vibe and soul of Atlanta’s favorite street party. Featured artists include, Saturday: Magnolia Express; Moontower; CoHost; Them Dirty Roses, and Funk You. Sunday gets started with Francisco Vidal; Kind Hearted Strangers; Sam Burchfield & the Scoundrels, and Frankly Scarlet (A Tribute to the Grateful Dead).

Weekend tickets to the 35th annual Steamhouse Lounge Oysterfest are on sale now for $25, plus fees, and include two days of sun-soaking, live music, and fresh seafood from the Louisiana Gulf Coast. For revelers who can’t make it on Saturday, single-day tickets are available for Sunday at $15, plus fees. Advance tickets allow for express entry lanes and are available at www.steamhouselounge.com. The event is for ages 21 and up. Festival goers under 21 are permitted when accompanied by an adult. Oysterfest is cashless, and 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 35th Annual Steamhouse Lounge Oysterfest benefits the Atlanta Leadership Club, which empowers strong leaders from underserved Atlanta communities, and Shells to Shore, an Athens-based oyster shell recycling project.

$25 for Satruday and Sunday

$10 for Sunday-Only

Tickets are available at www.steamhouselounge.com.

SUMMERHILL ANNOUNCES FEBRUARY FEATURES INCLUDING FOOTBALL SPECIALS AND VALENTINE’S DAY DINNERS

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

Neighborhood Restaurants Offer Snacks for the Big Game and Romantic Ideas for Valentine’s Day

During February, Summerhill businesses invite visitors for exclusive menu items, entertainment and self-care. Guests can start the month by exploring the offerings from small businesses and restaurants on Georgia Avenue and take advantage of the following special features:

Feeling the need to be refreshed and rejuvenated? Aviary brings beauty and wellness to Summerhill with Amiee McArthur’s Artisan Beaute Botox pop-up on Thursday, February 2^nd from 5:30-8:00 p.m. There will be snacks, bubbles, a raffle to win services valued at $350 and more! Call 404-313-3383 for appointments.
Everyone needs a hero, and Hero Doughnuts & Buns comes to the rescue with a taste of New Orleans. Hero Doughnut’s king cakes are made to order from scratch, and guests can place orders online 48 hours in advance.
Hot Dog Pete’s does not want the weather to slow down game-day plans. The eatery invites guests to build a hotdog, grab a beer and catch their favorite teams on the big screen on its covered and heated patio.
How Crispy, the walk-up-window sandwich shop that offers a menu of chicken sandwiches, nuggets and more, has new, indulgent items on the menu this month. To get things cluckin’, the eatery is offering specials for the big game on Feb. 12 such as original and lemon pepper wet nugget trays with nuggets that are dipped in hot sauce and dusted with lemon pepper spice, sandwich packs and their famous Buffalo chicken dip trays served with seasoned tortilla chips.
Guests are invited to “Little Bare at Little Bear”—a sexy Valentine’s prix fixe dinner with optional booze packs on Sunday, Feb. 12 and Wednesday, Feb. 15. The four-course prix fixe dinner is $50 per person, and four-course booze pack pairings are $50 per person. Non-alcoholic beverages and gluten-free and vegetarian options also will be available. Get in the mood for love and make reservations online.
From the heart of passionate bakers and using local and quality ingredients, Little Tart is bringing love through Valentine’s Day cookie boxes. A box of 12 cookies—six strawberry cookies topped with peppercorn sables and six rose petal and orange peel cookies topped with pistachio, orange and rose sables—comes with a love note for $35. Orders may be placed online for pickup or shipping. Too short on time to order? Don’t fret. Cookie boxes will be available to purchase at all locations the weekend before Valentine’s Day.
Wood’s Chapel BBQ, the go-to destination for hearty food for festive gatherings, has a special party platter offering just in time for the big game. The game-day platter serves eight hungry fans and boasts smoked wings, hot smoked sausage, pimento cheese and more for $88. In addition, Wood’s Chapel offers other packages with mouthwatering options such as sliced or chopped brisket, St. Louis-style ribs, smoked chicken, braised greens and mac ‘n cheese. Place orders by calling 404-522-3000.

ATLANTIC STATION’S FEBRUARY EVENTS LINEUP WILL WARM YOUR HEART

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

The intown destination invites the community to experience a variety of outdoor events

Atlantic Station has a variety of events planned throughout February that are sure to warm your heart. Celebrate the Year of the Rabbit as Atlantic Station continues to honor the Lunar New Year with a spectacular display of Lunar New Year decor and traditions along with a magnificent fire breathing dragon. Treat your taste buds to one of the many flavorful food and beverage festivals happening throughout the month in the Pinnacle Lot, such as the Atlanta Oyster Festival, the Atlanta Winter Beer Festival and the Beer, Bourbon & BBQ Festival. Celebrate Black History Month with an outdoor movie series on Atlantic Green. The month may be short, but there’s plenty to do at Atlantic Station throughout February.

The full February events lineup is outlined below:

Lunar New Year

Now through Sunday, Feb. 5 from 5 p.m. – 9 p.m. daily

Visit Atlantic Green to celebrate the Year of the Rabbit and experience mesmerizing Lunar New Year decor. At the top of the hour nightly from 5 – 9 p.m., an impressive “fog” breathing 90-foot-long dragon with over 25,000 lights, known as the Chinese symbol of good fortune, will blow fog out in the plaza to surprise guests. Also happening at the top of the hour every night, over 450 beautifully decorated red lanterns will illuminate Atlantic Green for a glistening lantern show. For more information, visit https://atlanticstation.com/event/lunar-new-year-2023/.

Black History Month Movie Series

Monday, Feb 13 at 5 p.m., Wednesday, Feb. 15 and 22 at 7 p.m.

Celebrate Black History Month with an epic and educational movie series on Atlantic Green! Bring your family or friends and a cozy blanket while enjoying the film. Stop by at one of Atlantic Station’s restaurants for a delicious meal before or after the movie. This event is free to the public. See below for the movie series lineup or for more information, visit https://atlanticstation.com/events/list/.

Monday, Feb 13 at 5 p.m. featuring Cinderella (1997) | Rated G

Wednesday, Feb. 15 at 7 p.m. featuring The Great Debaters (2007) | Rated PG-13

Wednesday, Feb. 22 at 7 p.m. featuring 42 (2013) | Rated PG-13

Atlanta Oyster Festival

Saturday, Feb. 4 from 1 – 5 p.m.

Oh shucks! Atlanta’s favorite oyster festival returns to the Pinnacle Lot for oyster shucking and lots of entertainment. Guests can enjoy a selection of fresh oysters accompanied with beer, wine, mimosas and brunch punch; live music; and tunes spun by DJ Qtip. The festival is 21+ and general admission tickets include entry, entertainment, a souvenir cup and all alcohol samples. Food will be available at an additional cost. To purchase tickets or to learn more, visit https://atlanticstation.com/event/atlanta-oyster-fest-2023/.

Atlanta Winter Beer Festival

Saturday, Feb. 11 from 1 – 5 p.m.

Grab your friends and sip on boozy drinks in the Pinnacle Lot at the Atlanta Winter Beer Festival! Sample a wide selection of over 150 beers, wines and seltzers from homegrown Georgia brewers and other breweries from across the country. Grab a bite to eat at one of the many food trucks on site and enjoy tunes spun by DJ Qtip under a heated tent. Tickets include entry, a souvenir cup, entertainment and all beer, wine and seltzer samples. Food will be available at an additional cost. This is a 21+ event. To purchase tickets or to learn more, visit https://atlanticstation.com/event/atlanta-winter-beer-festival-2023/.

Tiny Doors ATL Studio Open

Saturday, Feb. 18 from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Stop in and meet Atlantic Station’s artist-in-residence, Karen Anderson Singer of Tiny Doors ATL, when she opens her studio for a behind-the-scenes peek into how her public art comes to life. See Tiny Doors in progress, shop exclusive merchandise, view the retired door gallery and learn how she has become one of Atlanta’s most popular and well known artists. The studio will be open on the third Saturday of every month. For more information, visit https://atlanticstation.com/event/tiny-doors-atl-open-studio-2/2023-02-18/.

Hello Kitty Café Truck

Saturday, Feb. 18 from 10 a.m. – 7 p.m. while supplies last

We’re saying hello again to Hello Kitty! The crowd-favorite Hello Kitty Café Truck will be returning to Atlantic Station on Atlantic Green this month. Visit the truck to pick up adorable exclusive Hello Kitty treats and merchandise. Please note the Hello Kitty Café Truck only accepts credit and debit card payments. For more information, visit https://atlanticstation.com/event/hello-kitty-cafe-truck-2023/.

Beer, Bourbon & BBQ Festival

Saturday, Feb. 25 from 2 – 6 p.m.

Have a barbeque feast at the 11th Annual Beer, Bourbon & BBQ Festival in the Pinnacle Lot! Spend your Saturday outdoors with friends and family while treating your tastebuds to all the pleasures true southerners live by: beer, bourbon, barbeque, bacon and biscuits. The VIP early entry begins at noon, while general admission starts at 2 p.m. Tickets include a souvenir glass and most importantly, all you can taste samples. To purchase tickets or to learn more, visit https://atlanticstation.com/event/beer-bourbon-bbq-festival-2023/.

Overtime Elite Games

Throughout February

Dribble on down to the Overtime Elite arena to watch some of the nation’s best basketball players battle in rigorous matchups! Throughout the season there are exciting activities planned, including special performances, celebrity guests, surprise giveaways and more! See below for the full February schedule or to purchase tickets, visit https://www.overtimeelite.com/.

Friday, Feb. 3 at 7 p.m. and 9 p.m.

Saturday, Feb. 4 at 7 p.m.

Friday, Feb. 10 at 7 p.m. and 9 p.m.

Saturday, Feb. 11 at 7 p.m.

Friday, Feb. 17 at 7 p.m. and 9 p.m.

Saturday, Feb. 18 at 6 p.m. and 8 p.m.

Tuesday, Feb. 21 at 7 p.m. and 9 p.m.

Friday, Feb. 24 at 7 p.m. and 9 p.m.

Saturday, Feb. 25 at 6 p.m. and 9 p.m.

RESTRICTIONS:

Please keep in mind the Code of Conduct when choosing to visit Atlantic Station. All youth under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian after 3:00 p.m. No individuals under 21 are permitted on property after 9:00 p.m. All guests may be subject to presenting ID to verify age. To stay up-to-date on event happenings and details, visit atlanticstation.com and engage with Atlantic Station on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook.

SAVOR THE LOVE AT SUN IN MY BELLY’S VALENTINE’S DAY DINNER

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

Special Four-Course Dinner With Wine Pairings

Tuesday, February 14, 2023 at 6 p.m. and 8 p.m.

Sun in my Belly, a European-inspired café located in Kirkwood, is spreading the love this Valentine’s Day with a special four-course dinner on Tuesday, February 14, 2023. Opening its doors during the evening for this special experience, the acclaimed, quintessential breakfast and brunch destination will have two seatings, 6 p.m. and 8 p.m. Guests are also invited to indulge in hand-selected wine pairings to accompany each course. Sun In My Belly’s Valentine’s Day Dinner is $80 per person and $120 per person with wine pairings. Reservations are available by emailing info@suninmybelly.com.

Valentine’s Dinner 2023

Amuse Bouche

Hothouse Cucumber Coins Topped with Cherry Wood Smoked Salmon + Boursin + Cracked Capers + Fresh Dill

Chateau d’Esclans, Cotes de Provence Whispering Angels Rose

Appetizer

Charcuterie

Whitehaven Sauvignon Blanc

Soup/Salad

Soup: Roasted Butternut Squash Soup with Van Gogh Crouton

-or-

Salad: Violet Salad with Baby Spinach + Blueberries + Mandarin Oranges + Pickled Red Onion + Spiced Georgia Pecans + Ginger Vinaigrette

Castello Banfi Chianti Classico Riserva

Entrée

Heart Shaped Spinach Ravioli with Roasted Asparagus Spears + Sweet Peas + Tarragon Cream Sauce

-or-

Cornish Hen with Yellow Tomato Beurre Blanc + Caramelized Root Vegetables + Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Caramelized Shallots + Lemon Zest

-or-

Herb Crusted Filet of Beef Topped with Red Wine-Mushroom Duxelle with Purple Mash + White Asparagus

Vara Tempranillo Vinho Espanol

Dessert

Dark Chocolate Mousse Cake

-or-

Gluten Free Caramel Pot De Creme

-or-

Vegan Raspberry Tart

Dell’ Emilia Labrusca
Sun in my Belly is located at 2161 College Avenue NE in the Historic Kirkwood District of Atlanta, GA between Little 5 Points and Decatur. Housed in a classic 1943 red brick hardware store, the charming locale features an intimate dining room, breezy open-air garden porch and an urban street-front patio. Visit www.suninmybelly.com or call 404.370.1088 for more information.

CULINARY FESTIVAL, FASHION SHOWCASE, SUPER BOWL PARTY, AND MORE ARE COMING TO ECHO STREET WEST

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

Mixed-use destination rising in Atlanta’s Westside debuts exciting February and March events lineup

A live-fire culinary festival, Mardi Gras celebration, fashion showcase, Super Bowl watch party and more are coming to Echo Street West this February and March. At Westside Motor Lounge, wear your favorite team’s jersey and watch Super Bowl LVII with an epic day party featuring brunch cocktails, special menu items and DJ performances, or enjoy an English Avenue Mardi Gras with po’boy specials, a live brass band and more. Stop by for new weekly events at Westside Motor Lounge, including Dirty South Trivia, Biscuits & Beats and the HOT COFFEE pop-up shop. Visit Guardian Studios to appreciate the work of our talented resident artists, or indulge in all-you-can-eat delicious bites from Atlanta’s top chefs at Heritage Fire at Guardian Works.

The full February/March events lineup is outlined below:

Dirty South Trivia Night at Westside Motor Lounge

Every Wednesday from 7 to 9 p.m.

Calling all trivia enthusiasts! Test your knowledge every Wednesday at Westside Motor Lounge with Dirty South Trivia. Food and drink specials are announced weekly via Instagram and winners receive free shots. For more information visit www.westsidemotorlounge.com/happenings.

Biscuits & Beats at Westside Motor Lounge

Every Sunday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Looking for a way to fight those Sunday scaries? Come groove the day away at Westside Motor Lounge at Echo Street West every Sunday with Biscuits & Beats. Get the morning started with an old school funk and soul soundtrack accompanied by a tasty lineup of specialty brunch cocktails and a featured biscuit menu with WML favorites. The day party vibes continue into the afternoon with music provided by weekly rotating DJs from 2 to 5 p.m. Follow along on Instagram for the announcement of Westside Motor Lounge’s cocktail, biscuit and DJ menu. For more information visit www.westsidemotorlounge.com/happenings.

Pop-Up Coffee Shop Residency, Bankhead Coffee Now Open at Westside Motor Lounge

Every Wednesday – Sunday from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Westside Motor Lounge partnered with local small business HOT COFFEE to launch a pop-up coffee shop residency, Bankhead Coffee, in the Idlewild event space. Bankhead Coffee is a full-service coffee bar offering their brand of drip coffee, cold brew, lattes, espresso and more. With plenty of seating and free internet, Bankhead Coffee is serving Westside Motor Lounge clientele as well as the surrounding communities, hosting community engagement events such as Coffee and Conversations, Urban Land Institute Project (REAP) Coffee Meet Up, Cupcakes and Coffee with Kat (founder), Hampton University Alumni Group Mixer, and other Facebook Meet Ups. HOT COFFEE is designated as a Woman, Black and Native American owned small business. For more information visit https://www.lovehotcoffee.com/pages/bankhead-coffee.

Big Game, Big Cans Super Bowl Day Party at Westside Motor Lounge

Sunday, Feb. 12 from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Join us for an epic Super Bowl LVII Day Party at Westside Motor Lounge at Echo Street West. Start the pre-game festivities off with our weekly lineup of brunch cocktails, biscuits and funky tunes. The day party continues with buckets of 24 oz seltzers and 16oz beers and DJ AlphaTrion from 2 to 6 p.m. Don’t worry… the volume stays on for all your favorite Super Bowl commercials and the big game. WSML will serve a special game day menu including smoked wings, smoked cauliflower bites, pigs in a blanket, cowboy caviar, queso dip, deviled eggs, buffalo chicken dip and more. Entry to the event is free. For more information visit www.westsidemotorlounge.com/happenings.

An English Avenue Mardi Gras at Westside Motor Lounge

Saturday, Feb. 18 from 4 p.m. to close

Laissez le bon temps rouler! Let the good times roll! Westside Motor Lounge at Echo Street West is throwing a Mardi Gras day party. Featuring cocktails from the Crescent City, po’boy specials, a brass band and an abundance of funky New Orleans inspired tunes. For more information visit www.westsidemotorlounge.com/happenings.

Creature Comforts Bigger Dreams Beer Release + WML Industry Night

Thursday, Feb. 23 from 6 p.m. to close

Westside Motor Lounge at Echo Street West is teaming up with crowd favorite Creature Comforts for the Atlanta release of the newest member of their beer family “BIGGER DREAMS!!! 6.8% Hazy IPA”. This will also be the first Very Industry People (VIP) Night with off menu drink specials for our industry family. Party kicks off at 6 p.m. with DJ Blaq Mozart aka Smiley and DJ Dillion Mauer will close things out with a set starting at 8 p.m. WML will have specials on the Creature portfolio of beers including Bigger Dreams, Automatic, Tropicalia, Classic City Lager and more… BIGGER DREAMS….It’s all good (it’s all good), And if you don’t know, now you know! For more information visit www.westsidemotorlounge.com/happenings.

Fashion Night at Guardian Studios

Saturday, Feb. 18 from 4 to 8 p.m.

Come appreciate creative and remarkable fashion from featured Guardian Studios’ artists at Fashion Night. Featured artists include Kacee Friedman, Karen Graffeo, The House of Panda, ComfiArt, Avenue Colors, Emef Griffin, Lyiness, D&J Sew and Sylvia Mollie. Artists will have their studios open and clothes available for purchase with more details to be announced soon. For more information or announcements visit www.echostreetwest.com/guardian-studios/.

Opening Reception at Echo Contemporary Art at Guardian Studios

Friday, March 3 from 6 to 10 p.m.

Guests are invited to an opening reception for three exhibitions from Guardian Studios artists. Enjoy drinks and light bites as Buchen/Goodwin, Mitchell Biggio and Marinelly Piñango debut their latest exhibitions. More details to be announced soon. For more information or announcements visit www.echostreetwest.com/guardian-studios/.

Heritage Fire at Guardian Works

Sunday, March 26 from 4/4:45 to 7 p.m.

Join us at Guardian Works for a delicious afternoon filled with Atlanta’s finest flavors, top chefs and most memorable brands at this one-of-a-kind, indulgent, all-inclusive tasting experience. Heritage Fire is a nationwide three-hour live-fire event taking place in over 14 cities focused on delivering moments of culinary awakening. Tickets include entertainment, adult beverages and unlimited food. VIP Priority Access ticket holders receive early access to the event. Participating vendors to be announced. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit www.heritagefiretour.com/atlanta/.

To stay up-to-date on event happenings and more , follow @EchoStreetWest on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter and visit the website at www.echostreetwest.com.

WESTSIDE FOOD, BOOZE, & BEER FEST 2023

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 1/27/23

Saturday, 2/18 at 2pm

Chattahoochee Food Hall

Welcome to The Westside Food, Booze & Brews Fest featuring some of the best spirits, beers, and food at The Chattahoochee Food Works!

Regular Ticket Includes:

🍸 3 Beer Tokens (1 beer token= 5 oz pour)

🍸 1 Liquor Sample

🍸 2 food samples from Chattahoochee Food Works food stalls

🍸 Featuring local beers, ciders, and spirits

🍸 DJ entertainment

🍸 The Chattahoochee Food Works food stalls and full bar available for purchase on own

Lover of all Ticket Includes:

🍸 5 Beer Tokens (1 beer token= 5 oz pour)

🍸 2 Liquor Samples

🍸 2 food samples from Chattahoochee Food Works food stalls

🍸 Featuring local beers, ciders, and spirits

🍸 DJ entertainment

🍸 The Chattahoochee Food Works food stalls and full bar available for purchase on own

VIP Ticket Includes:

🍸 8 Beer Tokens (1 token= 5 oz beer pour)

🍸 4 Liquor Samples

🍸 4 food samples from Chattahoochee Food Works food stalls

🍸 Separate VIP area

🍸 Hour early entry

🍸 Featuring local beers, ciders, and spirits

🍸 DJ entertainment

🍸 The Chattahoochee Food Works food stalls and full bar available for purchase on own

Participating Breweries & Liquor Brands:

🍺 Scofflaw Brewing Co.

🍺 Second Self

🍺 Reformation

🍺 Firemaker

🍺 Monday Night

🍺 Urban Tree Cidery

🍺 Liquor Brands coming soon!

Tickets run $30- $50

Tickets here.

YOUR 3RD SPOT ATLANTA

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 1/26/23

Dirt was everywhere, a frame of a bar extended down the far wall, a bunch of lumber was piled in the middle of the space, the ceiling wasn’t painted, and the heat inside was sweltering. This was our first look at Your 3^rd spot over the summer before their big Fall grand opening where the difference was day and night between then and now. Now, a large wood door opens into a sprawling game-scape where you’re greeted with a corn hole lawn and right behind it is a sweeping bar and above a terrace with a DJ space, curling court, and a great place to people watch. On top of all of this is a whole bowling alley, VIP areas, a gaming area for games like Skee-Ball and arcade games, large outdoor patio with lawn games, and EVEN a darts area. It’s a game lovers paradise. But just when you thought Your 3rd Spot was all about the gaming experience, they WOW with fantastic food and spectacular cocktail menu to elevate the overall experience! Y3S!

Nothing helps our Skee-Ball game like a few cocktails. Your 3^rd Spot has a terrific selection of cocktails like the tiki-inspired Jungle Smoke, smoky Lord Byron Blackberry Smoked Old Fashioned, and the bright Mai Tai. Cool it all down with the Jungle Smoke cocktail that is sweet and tangy from the pineapple, then a slight smoke flavor from the mezcal, and floral notes from the Demerara syrup. Pro tip: make sure to stir up the drink! If you love it fruity, you’ll love the Mai tai, served in an epic tiki glass. This DRAFT cocktail is one part passion fruit, orange, and sweet, and then one part boozy. Sippable and fun. But if you’re looking for something a little boozier, you’re in for a treat from the Lord Byron Blackberry Smoked Old Fashioned. It’s boozy with hints of berry and cinnamon up front with a slight smoke on the end. Plus, can’t decide on what you want? You can get all the draft cocktails in a flight! It comes out in a tower of glass and greenery. It’s pretty epic.

After a vigorous motorcycle drive around the streets of Miami, a round of delectable shared plates hit the spot. Starting with two of our favorites, the first being the Slow Smoked Short Ribs are tender and meaty with a delicate smoke on the end. Then top with tangy, crispy onions and a tangy and sweet BBQ sauce that rounds out the savory meat. OR you can just dive into the Spicy Tuna Crispy Rice plate. The savory of the tuna, spiciness of the jalapeño, the richness of the soy that balances the slight smoked and rounded out with creamy mayo. It’s a well-rounded bite!

Moving on to the M3eatballs (yes, with a 3), they were a tender mix of pork, veal, and beef paired with a tangy marinara and a creamy, dreamy, polenta underneath. A wonderful piece of charred, buttery, crispy homemade focaccia is on the side. One of the most unique bites is the amazing Potato Torpedoes that are a bed of crispy skin potatoes wedges. On top is the creamy and rich devilled egg mousse and salty caviar/fish roe! It’s salty, crispy, crunchy, rich, creamy, and then there is that inevitable pop of the roe.

The next shared plate was another winner, the Wagyu Beef Tartare! The beef tartare itself is tender and savory meat mixed with creamy mayo, a hint of tangy onion, and then surrounded by crunchy, tart pickled carrots. On top mustard seeds are the perfect crunchy and flavorful addition to the bite. Don’t forget to dip away with the spicy, puffed sushi rice for the best bite.

For our final bite of our epic food journey was the Seared Peking Duck Breast. It is tender and flavorful duck with a sweet and savory sherry gastrique, tangy blood orange, crunchy nuts, all a top creamy leeks. It has so many great flavors so make sure to get everything in one big bite.

After our meal, we enjoyed unlimited games where I dominated Skee-Ball with a score of 300(!) on one round and John found his favorite driving game and drove around multiple cities on a motorcycle.

LOVE AT FIRST BITE: THE BLIND CUPID POP-UP EXPERIENCE IS NOW OPEN

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 1/24/23

The Blind Pig Parlour Bar Transforms into Valentine’s-Themed Bar for Festive Dates and Girls’ Nights Out

The Blind Pig Parlour Bar once again transforms into The Blind Cupid now through the end of February. Guests will fall head over heels for this wildly popular pop-up experience that brings Valentine’s Day-themed sizzle with a menu of swoon-worthy drinks, decadent menu snacks and over-the-top pink and floral décor.

The Buckhead speakeasy, long known for its intimate, sophisticated vibe and The Blind Elf pop-up during the holidays, restyles its Victorian-era decor to woo hopeless romantics and the lovelorn alike. The Blind Cupid offers guests the perfect place to combat winter blues, whether they are searching for an entertaining girls’ night out, Galentine’s Day celebration or a unique date night.

The food menu boasts a variety of small plates and desserts for sharing including:

Cremini and shiitake mushroom bruschetta with Boursin cheese ($15)
Crab bites with remoulade dipping sauce ($15)
Steak and chicken skewers (three for $15 and $12, respectively)
Bacon-wrapped shrimp (four pieces for $15)
Lemon cookies ($4)
Chocolate-covered strawberries (four pieces for $8)
House-made beignets with fig and strawberry preserves ($6)
White and dark chocolate ganache board with assorted fruits and nuts ($15)

There’s a lot to love about The Blind Cupid’s cocktail menu with festive cold and hot options. Among the highlights are:

Sweet Tart with my Sweetheart shots with vodka, Aperol, Liquor 43 and lemon juice (two shots for $18)
Some Like It Hot with red jalapeño-infused Bacardi, mint, prickly pear and lemon juice ($15)
Love You a Latte mixing XXI Martini Espresso and Green Chartreuse ($15)
Say My Name with gin, lemon juice, strawberry syrup, passion fruit, soda and egg whites ($15)
Con Amor De Abuelita mixing mezcal, Abuelita hot chocolate and chocolate with a piloncillo rim ($15)

In January, The Blind Cupid will be open Wednesday-Sunday from 5 p.m. until late. In February, The Blind Cupid will be open seven days a week, including Galentine’s Day (Monday, Feb. 13) and Valentine’s Day (Tuesday, Feb. 14). Reservations are strongly recommended, and the festive venue may be reserved for small parties and special events any day of the week.

The Blind Cupid is located at 128 East Andrews Dr., NE in Atlanta. For more information, visit theblindpigparlourbar.com.

Yalda Atlanta

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 1/14/23

Inside the new Aria development in Sandy Springs, Yalda is a top notch Middle Eastern spot with a spacious dining room, open kitchen, sprawling bar, and expansive patio to welcome you! Beyond the décor, on the menu, everything from spectacular hummus and Labneh with amazing toppings, delicious dips, fresh salads, gorgeous grilled meats, sensational small plates, decadent desserts, as well as cool cocktails. This is not one to miss.

When we arrived, the bar manager put together an amazing coursed meal for us and we had a little bit of everything on the menu and it’s pretty epic. Let’s start with their cocktail menu. They have a great wine and beer list, but the cocktail we got was a treat. The Hafez’s Last Word is a mix of a tangy, tiki-inspired mai tai with a creamy, NY sour. It does start out sour with a red wine topper, but ends up sweet from the mai tai. It’s both beach and city! Yes, please.

Our first course started with the spreads like the Za’atar Labneh, Hummus, and Mirza Ghasemi. Starting with the Hummus that is earthy and creamy on it’s own and you can flavor it up with either pickled mushroom mixed with carrot or lamb shawarma. We opted to top it with the pickled mushroom that added a tang and crunch that comes through on the end. We’ve not experienced this combo of flavors before, but glad we have now! It is all together earthy with white truffle, well seasoned, tangy, crunchy.

Our favorite, surprisingly was the Za’atar Labneh, but this time with lamb shawarma. The lamb is tender and well seasoned a top a sour yet creamy labneh yogurt. We’ve tried this before at various restaurants and it was lack-luster. Yalda does a good job with a delicious mix of creamy, savory, and seasoning. We’re all-in. Finally, the Mirza Ghasemi is not to be missed either with smoky, smashed earthy eggplant mixed with tangy tomato, flavorful spices, and earthy garlic. You can eat it alone or as a dip with the pita bread they bring for snack!

The second course they put together for us was Mezze with the Roasted Haloumi Cheese, wings, and Zeytoun Parvardeh (olives). Starting with the meaty, smoked wings, they’re perfectly charred and tender inside. A great wing paired with a creamy, spicy harissa that goes so well with the char of the wings. Something we didn’t expect to like was the Zeytoun Parvardeh. Not being big on green olives, this dish also boasts ground walnuts and pomegranate seeds. That takes the olives bitterness and tang down a notch with the earthy of the walnut and fruitiness and burst of tang from the pomegranate. Wow!

Our favorite of the mezze was the Roast Haloumi Cheese. Spongy, springy cheese with a sharp rich flavor then perfectly charred and roasted outside that changes the texture. It comes atop the pickled mushrooms to give it tangy, earthy, crunchy flavor in addition of the delightful roasted cheese.

The third course was the healthiest of the night with the salads! Don’t miss out on these, there is a lot of delicious options on this menu, but save room for a salad, you’ll be happy you did! First, a staple on any middle eastern menu is the Mediterranean Salad. Mixed green that starts crunchy and a good helping of earthy feta, as well as a fantastic wine vinaigrette. Another staple, the Shirazi Salad is the freshest and healthiest, but doesn’t skimp on flavor. Crisp and clean cucumbers paired with tomatoes, tangy onion, and earthy parsley then doused in a bright lemon dressing.

Our favorite of the salads was the Beet salad. Think a bed of spring mix surrounded by sweet pickled beets, crunchy and nutty walnuts, tangy onion, a sprinkling of cheese, all slathered in a tangy bright and sweet pomegranate dressing. It’s actually sweet and rich, a must try.

The final course we got was an epic grilled meat duo of Salmon Kabobs and Lamb Chops paired with crispy, Tahdig rice. The rice itself is cooked on the grill to add a crunchiness and you can chose between Lentil and Raisin or Fava Bean and Dill. Between the two the fava is more earthy with a flavorful dill mixture, while the Lentil and Raisin is sweeter with raisings and crispy, crunchy onions, with was our favorite.

As far as the Salmon Kabobs, they’re tender and flaky fish with a ton of flavorful seasonings and charred crispy skin for that added je ne said quoi. If you get one meat, it would be the Lamb Chops. Succulent, meaty, large chops that are fall apart tender, perfectly seasoned, and a good lemon flavor on the back end. That pairs so well with the sweetness of the Lentil and Raisin rice. Along with your meat, they have a large list of sauces to try. We imagine any of the creamy offerings would be delicious with the lamb.

We passed on dessert because we were so full. This meal was very well put together and Yalda is well run for it being so new, we went in the second week. We were astounded by how well it was run.

The Ashford

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 1/6/23

A small, unassuming spot on Dresden Drive in Brookhaven, Ga, The Ashford, is a revamped, upscale dining gem without all the pretentiousness that brings something fresh to the area. We’re so glad to have this in our hood with a stellar list of delicious bites, upscale cocktails, and of course the best wine list. Like their fall menu features, the delicious pork chop and savory salmon, or menu staples like the salmon dip and salumi, and a sweet and tangy salad or spectacular 1920 daquiri and Fall Manhattan cocktails, no matter what you choose you’re in for a treat.

Starting with their great cocktail program that includes the 1902 Daquiri cockail is sassy sweet then tangy in the end. It is tiki heaven! The other one we tried was the Fall Manhattan cocktail. It is warm and sweet up front and then tangy and boozy on the back with an array of subtle fall spices. Either of these we’d get again.

On to the tasty sharable plates and starting with the Salad that is amazing with earthy greens. On top of that there are tart cranberries, tangy cheese, persimmon, crunchy, sweet candies pecans, and a fantastic cranberry vinaigrette. It is an all-around delicious bite. The next thing we got was Salumi. Always a good choice with a great variety of meats and accoutrement that includes a savory, sweet, and spicy jam that we would love to take home with us! The best appetizer we’ve had there is Salmon dip, and it is to die for! It’s lightly smoked salmon in a light creamy dill sauce with crunchy cabbage on the side. It’s light, creamy, crunchy, and the cracker brings it all together. This is a must try!

For our mains, we opted for a flaky, well, seasoned and perfectly cooked Salmon. Paired with hearty saffron, sticky, rice and a fall stew that’s packed with Brazilian spiced sweet potato, plantain, and yucca. It’s an amazing flavor journey. Then, we also enjoyed the savory, thick, tender pork chop. A fantastic smoked cherry chutney adorned the top to give it a sweetness, spicy, and smokiness. On the side the squash and potatoes are doused in the sauce. We loved all of it.

To top off our food journey, we opted for the Pistachio cake. The cake itself is warm and moist dotted with earthy pistachios (not crunchy) but just for flavor. The cream and powdered sugar adds creaminess but you almost don’t need it!! Delicious.