Tag Archive for: food

EPICUREAN HOTEL, EPICUREAN THEATRE UPCOMING EVENTS 2021

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

Tickets here.

Holiday Baking: Brunch of Champions

Schedule: Sunday, December 12, 11.00 am – 1:00 pm

Price: $75

Around the holidays, family traditions and joyful memories often revolve around baking pastries and those sweet treats we love. From nutmeg to ginger to cranberry, it’s the time of year where we can let our favorite flavors shine. Who better to take a tip or two from, than Epicurean’s very own in-house pastry chef, Sabrina Coombs. You may recognize Sabrina as a contestant from Food Network’s hit tv show, Holiday Baking Championship! Featuring four courses of both sweet and savory pastry bites complete with brunch pairings, join us for a seasonal dive into holiday baking and enjoy a brunch of champions!

MENU

Cranberry Doughnuts

Savory Herb & Cheese Popover

Red Velvet Cinnamon Roll

Frozen Gingersnap Swiss Roll

*Paired with festive brunch cocktails.

ABOUT THE CHEF

Born in London, and raised in Atlanta, Sabrina Coombs has made it her mission to bring European techniques to the diverse flavors of modern southern baking. After training as a ballerina in performing arts school, Sabrina decided to take her creative outlet into the kitchen and hasn’t looked back. She trained at Le Cordon Bleu and has held positions at Atlas Buckhead and Four Seasons Atlanta, before recently finding her home at Epicurean Atlanta.

Sabrina’s pastry style is focused – she creates simple, elegant desserts that are full flavor. For Sabrina, food is passion, a sense of community and engagement that brings family and friends together.

When not whipping up sweets, you can find her doing outdoor activities taking her dog Lucky for hikes and yoga in the park. She spends a lot of her free time engaging with her three sisters and her sweet nephew, Noah. She’s loves laughing and having a good time with her loved ones and does the same with her Epicurean family!

PARKING

Complimentary 3-hour valet validation is provided.

Wine For Holiday Fare

Schedule: Saturday, December 18, 4:00pm – 6:00pm

Price: $125.00

ane Garvey (wine educator) & Ewart Wardhaugh (Epicurean Atlanta)
Everybody has different ideas about what makes a good traditional holiday meal. Staple foods and key dishes vary from one culture – and country – to another. From seafood in Spain, to kosher foods for Hanukkah, there is much to be explored in the realm of holiday fare. And when family gathers, there will likely be a variety of wine preferences, from dry to sweet, and from white to pink to red. In this wine and food pairing, we’ll explore a range of wines from a wide swath of wine regions that will pair well with a broad selection of holiday flavors. From classics to some novel ideas, there is nothing better during the holiday season than a good surprise.

MENU

Potato Latkes, Apple Sauce, Sour Cream

Festive Scallop Pork Belly Siu Mai

Basque Marmitako Salad, Fingerling Potatoes, Green Chili Sofrito Mojo

Egyptian Roast Leg of Lamb “Fattah” Pomegranate Eggplant, Tahini Labneh

Sweet Grass Griffin Grits Cheesecake

*Wine pairings provided to accompany each course

ABOUT THE TALENT

Jane F. Garvey

Jane F. Garvey holds a doctorate in Romance languages from the University of Georgia, and uses that skill set to visit wineries all over the world, from Europe to the United States and Canada, as well as the southern hemisphere. She has written about wine for The Atlanta Journal-Constitution, the Atlanta Wine Report, the newsletter for the Atlanta Wine School, and Lake Oconee Living magazine. She has taught wine classes for a variety of private clients. Currently, she is on the board of the Georgia Trustees Wine & Spirits Competition, which she co-founded with two colleagues, to recognize the quality of Georgia’s rapidly growing wine world, as well as meads, ciders and distilled spirits. Jane also writes regularly for Georgia magazine, published by Oglethorpe Power. She holds the Certified Specialist of Wine designation granted by the Society of Wine Educators. Glassware and serving temperature issues will also be presented.

Ewart Wardhaugh

With an innate passion for cooking, Wardhaugh’s interest took root at home where he grew up in a culinary household, helping host his family’s dinner parties. At 15, his first stint as a dishwasher sealed his fate in the industry and his life was soon engulfed by the culinary world. Throughout his career, Wardhaugh embarked on a world tour that led him to the Lanesborough Hotel in London, and the Raffles Hotel and Resort in Singapore. His first U.S. venture at the Bellagio in Las Vegas proved to be a major milestone, as he oversaw its 22 food and beverage outlets. Wardhaugh continued his upwards trajectory at prestigious hotels around the world, including Barbados, Australia, and Dubai.

Most recently, Wardhaugh acted as the regional executive chef for Wolfgang Puck Catering in Los Angeles, a multi-faceted company with catering, events, corporate dining, restaurants, and, most notably, the Oscars Governors Ball. With years under his belt, Wardhaugh was named a finalist in the Académie Culinaire de France’s Annual Award of Excellence, a Salon Culinaire winner, a semifinalist in the gourmet category of the Taste of Scotland Challenge, and a finalist for the “Young Scottish Chef of the Year” at age 20. With a hand in menu development, training implementation, menu tasting activities and global industry trends, Wardhaugh looks to create his place within the buzzing culinary scene of Atlanta as Executive Chef at Epicurean Atlanta.

PARKING

Complimentary 3-hour valet validation is provided.

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.

GRANDIOSE GRAPE WINE FESTIVAL 2021

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 10/14/21

Saturday, November 13 at 2 pm

The Mill Kitchen and Bar

The Mill Kitchen and Bar hosts The Grandiose Grape Wine Festival in Roswell Saturday, November 13th, 2021, 2pm-5pm: Early VIP Entry at 1pm. The Grandiose Grape Wine Festival is a curated collection of the finest wines to taste & explore with live entertainment and chef curated food.
Tickets include entry and entertainment, souvenir glass, chef curated food & wine samples 90+ vendors.
$90 VIP Advance Admission at 1PM | SOLD OUT
$100 VIP Advance Admission at 1PM
$50 Advance General Admission at 2PM
$60 General Admission at 2PM
Tickets: HERE.
VIP Guest will receive early admission into the festival at 1PM with a Reserve Wine Tasting with over 25+ Vendors & VIP Food, entertainment, souvenir cup, & VIP Gift Bag with gift cards. General Admission entry starts at 2PM with over 90+ Wines, Food, souvenir cup, and entertainment.
Note: 21 and up event, no children. Rain or shine event, no refunds. No outside food or beverage. Do not drink and drive, take Uber/Lyft or walk. Alcohol will cut off at 4:45pm. We reserve the right to cut off anyone at any time.

YAO Atlanta

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 10/6/21

The moment you step into Yao, you’re met with a long, ornate bar and lounge area that’s dressed to the nines. Beyond the beautiful entry, the dining room is stunning, dotted with blue, cool chairs and a vaulted, soaring ceiling that houses a large wood wall. What Yao does so well is marry the stunning ambiance with the delectable food and sippable cocktails seamlessly. They do everything with beauty and grace, like the stunning Yao’s Ice Cream, gorgeous Salt and Pepper Whole Fish, plump Pork Belly, divine Duck Salad, as well as the amazing cocktails! Let’s take a tour, shall we?

Sitting and gazing into the dining room, we started with two amazing cocktails, the Mr. Yao and the Cherish. The favorite of the two is the Mr. Yao cocktail that starts out sweet, then morphs into a tangy, earthy, sour sip. It’s complex from start to finish with a distinct wine flavor that gives it a defined earthiness! The gorgeous The Cherish is easy on the eyes and the tongue. The cocktail is one part tangy and the other foamy with an almost floral and earthy end. It’s dynamic and sippable.

Moving into the small plates and appetizers, we were thrilled with the little watermelon bite they brought us prior to our meal. It is the cutest little dish in a small spoon with a huge Yao flag sticking out the top. The bite itself is sweet, salty, and an earthy light crunch. It is such a good little bite! Of the appetizers and small plates, we have to state up front, we’re huge pork belly fiends. If it’s on the menu, we get it. If you get one appetizer or small plate at Yao, please get the Pork Belly. It’s a perfectly cooked, tender piece of meat with a rich and buttery first bite finished with a hearty soy back. Plus, the addition of the dried fish gives it extra saltiness to complete the flavor complexity! Some of the best pork belly we’ve ever had, and we’ve had a lot.  Another one of our favorites is the Duck Salad. Absolutely eye-catching and heaping, the skin-on duck itself is rich and crunchy, while the sauce is slightly sweet with tangy pomegranate and earthy pine nuts. The greens brighten this dish, and it’s stellar, never had anything like it.

.

On to the entrée, we settled on the Salt and Pepper Fish and we’re so glad we did. Beyond the STUNNING presentation, the fish is flaky inside surrounded by a light crunch and brightened by the tangy scallions and garlic below the fish. Then, we paired it with the Sichuan Green Beans that were a good balance of spice, savory, and crunch. The best part is down in the bottom where the sauce pools. One of the best things you can do here is to mix and match the flavors of the fish and the green beans. It’s divine.

Whatever you do, stay for dessert and the Yao’s Ice Cream is an experience all it’s own. Surrounded by dry ice a served SMOKING, not only is it beautiful and the presentation flawless, but the flavor is creamy and smooth!  The addition of the salted egg yoke provides for a change in flavor profile and texture! Then, you have to eat to the back for a gelatinous surprise! The perfect way to end this fantastic meal.

Are you ready to go Yao? What would you try?

GATHER ROUND ATLANTA 2021

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 9/28/21

Thursday, October 14 to Sunday, October 17

Epicurean Hotel and all over Atlanta

Gather ‘round, a celebration of Southern food, drink, music and art is launching ticket sales on Friday, July 16 for its inaugural weekend in Midtown Atlanta, October 14 – 17th, 2021. Curated and produced by Southern Culinary & Creative, the four-day festival brings together the best of the region with 60+ talent, offering guests a chance to meet and eat with the South’s most prestigious chefs, beverage experts, artists, makers and entertainers.

“With a dedication to supporting the community and giving back to the people and places who nourish us, Gather ‘round is proud to champion the Atlanta-based hospitality organization Giving Kitchen as a beneficiary of the event and a primary nonprofit partner of Epicurean Atlanta. We wanted to curate an experience that encapsulates the full spectrum of culinary and creative interests in the community, and we’re working closely with some of the South’s top chefs, beverage experts and artists to bring this delicious adventure to life,” says Southern Culinary & Creative Partner Elizabeth Feichter. “We look forward to welcoming culinary enthusiasts for years to come, as Gather ‘round flourishes into an annual event cherished by the community.”

The soon-to-open Epicurean Atlanta, as the Presenting Sponsor, will play host to Gather ‘round. With a laser focus on delivering an authentic culinary experience to every guest, Epicurean Atlanta is the perfect venue for this celebration with its state-of-the-art Epicurean Theatre, 178-guest rooms and suites, and 1-acre rooftop events lawn. Epicurean Atlanta and its executive chef Ewart Wardhaugh are thrilled to collaborate with talent from its sister properties for the weekend including the team from Bern’s Steak House in Tampa, FL with chefs Habteab Hamde, Carlise Lopez, and Hannah Thomas and Wine Director Eric Renaud, as well as chefs Adam Hyatt (Élevage SoHo Kitchen & Bar, Epicurean Hotel, Tampa, FL), Chad Johnson and beverage manager Chris Belk (Haven, Tampa, FL).

Award-winning talent that call the region home will be featured throughout the weekend’s lineup including Ferrell Alvarez (Rooster & the Till, Nebraska Mini Mart, Gallito Taqueria, Tampa, FL), Brittanny Anderson (Brenner Pass, Metzger Bar And Butchery, Black Lodge, Leni, Richmond, VA), Cory Bahr (Parish, Monroe, LA), Rebecca Masson (Fluff Bake Bar, Houston, TX), Gerald Sombright (Knife & Spoon, Orlando, FL), Shuai Wang (Jackrabbit Filly, North Charleston, SC), and more.  In addition, Atlanta’s very own Justin & Jonathan Fox (Fox Bros. Bar-B-Q), Tiffanie Barriere (The Drinking Coach), Miles Macquarrie (Watchman’s, Kimball House), Claudia Martinez (Miller Union), Craig Richards (Lyla Lila), and Maricela Vega (Chicomecoatl) among many other local favorites will guarantee Gather ‘round will delight and inspire guests throughout the weekend’s events.

SIGNATURE EVENTS

Gather ‘round will feature four signature events held throughout the weekend inviting guests to break bread as Southern makers, artisans and creators of deliciousness bring their craft to life.  Each of the four signature events will be fully immersive, as the space, culinary offerings and details are woven thoughtfully together to tell stories of the South and deliver guests epicurean discoveries by the forkful. On Thursday evening, Awaken Your Senses will delight the palate with unforgettable dishes and beverage pairings to awaken the Epicurean adventure ahead.  On Friday, Tomorrow’s Table will offer modern takes on both Southern cuisine and craft, featuring rising and well-known talent from around the region with beautifully presented dishes, libations, paired wines, and engaging artistic performances and installations curated by the Hambidge Creative Arts Center. Sip will spotlight the bond between music and drinks, complete with the perfect bite to pair, celebrating classic Southern cocktails and curated Soundtracks playing to the musical culture of the South as guests enjoy a tasty Saturday night. To close out the weekend, Punch Brunch will toast to Sundays in the South with the ever-beloved and large-format concept of the Southern punch.  Combined with savory and sweet comfort food for this seated brunch service, we will top off this indulgent morning with a soulful Southern musical performance and delicious pastry bites featuring chefs from around the region while enjoying beautiful views from the Sky Terrace event lawn at the Epicurean.

EPICUREAN THEATRE MASTER CLASSES

Presented by The Local Palate, this entertaining, educational kick-off series of five interactive, deeply immersive seminars will take place throughout the weekend, acting as a forum for open discussion on a wide range of topics. Learn the latest in sustainability from two Gulf-seasoned chefs, explore the iconic dishes of Buford Highway, or taste the nuances of natural wine with these latest topics and trends in food media. Guests are sure to leave inspired and satiated with each delectable discovery.

TAKE COVER: A COLLABORATIVE DINNER SERIES

In this collaborative dinner series, award-winning guest talent from around the South will gather in Atlanta’s top restaurants to create unexpected collaborative menus, featuring dishes inspired by multiple cuisines and visiting talent’s culinary personas.  Each multi-course meal, complete with beverage pairings, promises a culinary cover guests won’t want to miss.  Among the experiences, get ready to join the Fox Bros. as they work alongside visiting chefs Ming Pu and Shuai Wang to interpret Asian flavors into Southern smoked favorites or partake in a music-to-your-mouth journey of European flavors during Craig Richards collaboration with Chrysta Poulos and recent Top Chef participant, Brittanny Anderson.

Tickets are on sale and can be purchased by visiting GatherRoundATL.com. Gather ‘round weekend rates are also available at Epicurean Atlanta and can be reserved here. For a full list of Gather ‘round talent, please follow the link here.

The well-being of patrons, sponsors, team members and talent is the event’s top priority. In preparation for Gather ‘round, the team will continue to closely monitor health and safety updates and recommendations from the CDC and the Georgia Department of Public Health as related to the pandemic and any other potential health risks to stay aware of. The team will evolve and adapt as needed to ensure the health and safety for all involved and will ensure the set up and guest and talent experience for the event is maintained at the highest standards.