Tag Archive for: things to do in atlanta

BLAVITY FEST 2025

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

May 31-June 1

Lee + White West End

From visionary speakers to gospel greats, immersive art to beauty villages, Blavity Fest 2025 is where Black culture, innovation, and community collide. Arriving May 31–June 1 in Atlanta’s West End at the vibrant Lee + White development, the two-day cultural experience is poised to be the premier destination for Black joy, empowerment, and excellence this spring.

The Lineup: A Cultural Powerhouse of Talent

Saturday, May 31

2 Chainz (Headliner)

Tiffany Aliche, Karen Civil, Devi Brown, Mattie James, Dr. Raquel Martin, and Diarrha N’Diaye-Mbaye, to name a few, will lead dynamic sessions on financial empowerment, brand-building, wellness, inclusive beauty, mental health, and thriving in life and business.

Sunday, June 1

Kirk Franklin (Headliner)

Marsai Martin, Keith Lee, Morgan DeBaun, and others bring depth and authenticity to key cultural conversations.

What’s New & Unmissable at Blavity Fest 2025

The Black Art Popup – A collaborative curation from The Black Boy Art Show and The Black Art Show featuring bold works from Atlanta-based Black artists

21Ninety & Grind Pretty Beauty Experience – On-site braiding, nail design, and beauty vendors celebrating Black-owned brands

Off the Shelves Marketplace – Curated with The Village Market ATL, this thriving bazaar of 20+ Black-owned businesses offers a chance to shop, connect, and invest in the community.

“The Spin-Off” DJ Battle – A high-energy, crowd-voted competition that brings top DJs head-to-head on the Main Stage.

“Up Next” Artist Showcase – Spotlighting the hottest emerging Black talent in music and performance arts.

Blavity Fest Idea Hour Pitch Competition – Young entrepreneurs speed-pitching live on stage for a chance to win a $5,000 grant from Blavity.org

Three Immersive Stages. One Unforgettable Weekend.

Main Stage – Iconic performances and keynote conversations.

Blavity Idea Exchange House – Fireside chats, business bootcamps, and real-talk panels.

Summit21 House – A dynamic space for Black women to explore beauty, wellness, wealth, and entrepreneurship.

Tickets & Access Tiers

General: $135 – Full festival access (Main Stage, Idea Exchange House, both days)

General + Summit21: $185 – Adds access to all Summit21 House programming

VIP: $350 – Dedicated lounge, fast-track entry, reserved seating, and premium giveaways

Get tickets now at: blavityfest.com

FROZEN MARGARITA FEST 2025

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

Historic Fourth Ward Park
Saturday, May 3

Cinco de Mayo season meets ATL energy! Grab your crew and get ready for a day of frozen margaritas, tacos, and non-stop music at the FROZEN MARGARITA FEST!

Non-stop margaritas & beer
Tacos from Atlanta’s best spots
Live DJs keeping the party HOT!

This event WILL sell out—secure your spot now at FrozenMargaritaFest.com before it’s too late!

Tickets here and start at just $25.

THE KENTUCKY DERBY AT THE OFFICE BAR

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

May 2-4

The big race is right around the corner, so saddle up and enjoy the Kentucky Derby at the Office Bar in Midtown. The Office Bar will host a viewing party for one of the South’s most beloved traditions, featuring food favorites and a drink special inspired by a Churchill Downs classic. Specials are available May 2-4.

The Office Bar is rolling out a refreshing new cocktail and mouthwatering menu specials, including a Bourbon Mint Fizz crafted with Horse Soldiers Straight Bourbon, fresh mint and a splash of lemon for a crisp, Southern-inspired twist. Food highlights include jalapeño poppers stuffed with cheddar, cream cheese and bacon, served with a buttermilk dressing, and a bold shrimp mac and cheese loaded with Cajun spices, roasted corn, caramelized onions, rich cheese fondue and a citrus bread crumble.

 MAY MAGIC: MONTHLY HAPPENINGS AT THOMPSON ATLANTA – BUCKHEAD

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

Celebrate Spring with Mother’s Day Brunch & Dinner, Live Music, Complimentary Yoga & Pilates,
 the World Bartending Competition + More

 As the days grow warmer and rooftops come alive, Thompson Atlanta – Buckhead invites locals and travelers alike to embrace the energy of May with a vibrant lineup of signature experiences. From raising a glass on the rooftop for Cinco de Mayo and Memorial Day, celebrating Mother’s Day with brunch and dinner, enjoying wellness opportunities, and listening to live music at Tesserae — the city’s most stylish rooftop — Thompson Atlanta – Buckhead is your go-to destination for curated moments and elevated hospitality. Downstairs, the hotel becomes a hub for community and connection with events like Thompson Tastes, Hatty Hour, Toast to Her, and the World Bartending Competition, all offering an inviting mix of cocktails, conversation, and celebration. Also, don’t miss the official pool opening, The Oasis, on May 1st – just in time to soak up the sun and views. 

Thompson Atlanta – Buckhead’s May Calendar of Events includes: 

Sunday, May 11: MOTHER’S DAY BRUNCH
Located at Tesserae | 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. EDT
Celebrate the mom in your life with a rooftop brunch at Tesserae. Indulge in a curated selection of chef-created small plates, where you can mix and match three delectable dishes for $65 per person. Other entrees include pecan pancakes, southern eggs benedict, and shrimp and grits. View the full menu and secure a reservation here. 

Sunday, May 11: MOTHER’S DAY DINNER
Located at Tesserae | 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. EDT
If you can’t make brunch, be sure to spoil mom by visiting Tesserae for a three-course dinner. Indulge in a pre-fixe menu for $65 per person, starting with a choice of peekytoe crab toast, strawberry and spinach salad, or lobster bisque. For the main course, savor jumbo shrimp scampi, bacon wrapped filet mignon, or spring pea risotto. End on a sweet note with berry shortcake or chocolate espresso crème brûlée. View the full menu and secure a reservation here. 

Wednesday, May 14: THE HATTY HOUR
Located at Jewel Box | 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. EDT
Join Thompson Atlanta – Buckhead for a monthly celebration of craftsmanship, style, and community hosted by BM Franklin & Co. Meet Brandon Franklin, founder of BM Franklin & Co., and his talented team of milliners behind the bespoke hats made right in Buckhead Village using timeless techniques and luxurious materials. Whether you’re a longtime friend of the brand, a fellow hat lover, or just looking to connect with some great people over cocktails and light bites – this event is for you. RSVPs are recommended, secure a spot here. 

Wednesday, May 14: THOMPSON TALKS
Located at Dirty Rascal | 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. EDT
Join Thompson Atlanta – Buckhead, in partnership with Cardinal Mays Advisors & Associates for an empowering event that combines financial education, fertility planning insights, and mental health resources. Learn how to navigate fertility journeys with confidence, make informed decisions, and reduce financial stress. 

Sunday, May 18 through Tuesday, May 20: WORLD BARTENDING COMPETITION
Located at Thompson Atlanta – Buckhead | Times Vary
The United States Bartenders’ Guild (USBG) World Class is headed to Atlanta! The nation’s top 30 mixologists will compete in the U.S. Finals for the title of 2025 U.S. Bartender of the Year. Visit here to learn more. 

Every Tuesday in May: THOMPSON TASTES
Located in the hotel lobby | 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. EDT
Enjoy a complimentary wine or spirit sampling with a featured partner at Thompson Atlanta – Buckhead’s signature tasting series. Stop by the hotel’s lobby every Tuesday in May to mix, mingle and taste exceptional wine. Visit here for more information. 

Every Thursday in May: TOAST TO HER
Located at Jewel Box | 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. EDT
This inspiring event is a toast to the strength, brilliance, and achievements of women. Enjoy an evening of connection, empowerment, and celebration with cocktails, delicious light bites, and an uplifting atmosphere. Plus, this month will feature a resident DJ, setting the perfect vibe for the occasion. Bring a plus one for a chance to win a complimentary stay at Thompson Atlanta – Buckhead. This event is free, but RSVPs are required – reserve a spot here. 

Saturdays in May: YOGA
Located at 1988 | 8 a.m. to 9 a.m. EDT
Every Saturday, rejuvenate with free yoga classes by community instructors. Free for hotel guests, this is the perfect start to the weekend while finding your inner peace. Spots are limited, visit here to register. 

Sundays in May: PILATES
Located at 1988 | 8 a.m. to 9 a.m. EDT
Every Sunday, reset with a Pilates session with expert instructors. This experience is free for hotel guests. Register here. 

Saturdays and Sundays in May: ROOFTOP BRUNCH
Located at Tesserae | 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. EDT
Elevate the weekend with brunch at Tesserae. Every Saturday and Sunday, enjoy a delicious brunch menu paired with stunning skyline views and live music. Guests will sip on craft cocktails, indulge in chef-driven dishes, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere. Whether gathering with friends or savoring a laid-back morning, Tesserae’s brunch experience is the ultimate way to unwind in style. To view the full brunch menu and to make reservations, visit here. 

Throughout May: LIVE ENTERTAINMENT
Located at Tesserae | Times Vary
Throughout May, enjoy a dynamic lineup of live entertainment at Tesserae. On Wednesdays from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m., immerse yourself in soulful live jazz performances by talented musicians. Every Friday and Saturday, heat things up with high-energy DJ sets from 8 p.m. to midnight. Whether you’re in the mood for smooth jazz or electrifying beats, Tesserae has something to set the perfect vibe for your evening. Visit here for more details.  

ATLANTA FRINGE FESTIVAL 2025

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

The Atlanta Fringe Festival returns for its 13th year, May 28 – June 8, across 10 local venues.

In the style of the global Fringe Festival movement, Atlanta Fringe Festival offers an artist-driven, open-access platform where artists can present original and unconventional works– and retain 100% of their ticket revenue. The result is a genre-spanning entertainment showcasing independent, experimental and boundary-pushing performances.

This year’s Atlanta Fringe Festival includes dozens of performers and performance groups across an expansive list of genres. Highlights include:

–40.4.40 (The Hip Hop Musical for Dreamers)

–Edgewood Avenue, an improvised puppet variety show (think SNL-meets-Muppets)

–Don Toberman: Ping Pong Champ, a clown comedy show from Moonlight Theater Company in Athens that’s already won awards at the Denver, KC, Adelaide and Richmond Fringe Festival

–Mark & David Show!, a comedy show from Atlanta comedians David Perdue and Mark Kendall, featuring special guests

–husk/vessel, a dance-theater work from KAIROS Dance Theater in Boston and legendary choreographer Paula Josa-Jones

A full list of acts can be found here, with each artist page containing descriptions, photos, bios and a “why you should see it” from each act.

YOUR 3RD SPOT UNVEILS SPRING LINEUP OF EVENTS

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 4/23/25

Community Fun Takes Center Stage with Hands-on Mixology, Tournaments and Tribute Moments

This spring, Your 3rd Spot invites guests to recharge, reconnect and reimagine what community looks like with a vibrant lineup of events designed to bring people together through play, creativity and shared experiences. From cornhole tournaments to cocktail gardens and family celebrations, these curated gatherings showcase the venue’s unique ability to spark connection through fun and flavor.

April 24 – Spring Fling: Toss & Trivia

  • Guests are invited to join a night of friendly competition and casual connection at Spring Fling: Toss & Trivia, hosted in the Cornhole Arena. Open to all from 6:30-9:30 p.m. and with free entry for members ($10 for non-members), the evening features a bracketed cornhole tournament, live trivia icebreakers, giveaways and an Experience Pass for unlimited gaming. Members also enjoy a $5 taste token toward food. Whether playing or cheering, the event promises midweek fun, community energy and a prize-filled finale. Book tickets for the Spring Fling online.

May 4 – Garden to Glass

  • Spring growth takes center stage at Garden to Glass, a hands-on herb-planting and mixology experience on the patio. From 4-7 p.m., participants will plant mini gardens of mint, basil and rosemary before learning to craft garden-to-glass cocktails using their fresh herbs. Tickets include all planting supplies, cocktails, guided tastings, giveaways and an Experience Pass for unlimited gaming. Pricing is $20 for members and $40 for non-members. From green thumbs to cocktail lovers, it’s a chance to sip, plant, and connect. View more details and book tickets to Garden to Glass online.

May 5 – Cinco de Mayo Celebration

  • Cinco de Mayo at Your 3rd Spot offers a festive fusion of flavor and fun for guests 21 and up. From 6-11:30 p.m., attendees can enjoy $3 tacos by chef Stuart Rogers, signature margaritas and tequila tastings, giant piñata drops filled with surprises and unlimited access to 100+ games and 30 minutes of bowling. Admission is $5 for Communiand Industry members or $30 for non-members, with Experience Passes included. From nostalgic moments to spirited sips, it’s a fiesta with a twist. View more details and book tickets to the Cinco de Mayo celebration online.

May 11 – Mother’s Day Celebration

  • From 11 a.m.-9 p.m. celebrate moms of all kinds on Mother’s Day with a full day of family-friendly fun, flavor and heartfelt connection at Your 3rd Spot. Guests can choose between two experience packages: the “Mom & Me” pass for casual dining and games or the “Memory Maker” experience featuring a six-course Taste & Explore brunch menu and reserved dining. Both experience packages include a keepsake gift and complimentary MOMosa for each mom. With photo booths, live music, a card-making station and a venue-wide tribute video, the day is designed to create unforgettable moments. View more details and book tickets to the Mother’s Day celebration online.

May 16-18 – Community Mural

  • Creativity takes a communal turn with a three-day Community Mural event. Guests visiting during the weekend can contribute to a collaborative butterfly-themed mural in progress—no additional ticket is required. Whether stopping in for a meal or a round of games, all are encouraged to leave their mark and help create a shared piece of art that celebrates unity and expression. Book an Experience Pass online.

FREE ADOPT A PLUSH AT CARTER’S

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 4/23/25

Carter’s at Perimeter Village is hosting an Adopt a Plush event this Saturday, April 26, from 11 AM to 3 PM. 

FREE Adopt a Plush event on Saturday, April 26! Swing by from 11AM – 3PM ET to take home a plush puppy or kitty. Choose your new pet, name it and fill out its very own adoption certificate. Ages 3 & up. While supplies last.

MOTHER’S DAY 2025

Posted by Liz and John Attaway,

Everything Mother’s day!

CELEBRATE MOTHER’S DAY WEEKEND AT CHASTAIN PARK SPRING ARTS FESTIVAL

A Beloved Atlanta Tradition Returns with Over 175 Artists, Local Flavor, Family Fun, and a Can’t-Miss Outdoor Experience

Free to Attend on Saturday, May 10 and Sunday, May 11, 2025

This Mother’s Day weekend, one of Atlanta’s most cherished outdoor traditions returns as the Chastain Park Spring Arts Festival takes over the green, tree-lined paths of Buckhead’s iconic Chastain Park. On Saturday, May 10, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Mother’s Day, Sunday, May 11, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., more than 175 hand-selected painters, sculptors, photographers, jewelry designers, leather and metal artisans, glass blowers, and more will showcase their work at this free, family-friendly festival.

Perfect for art lovers, curious collectors, families, and even four-legged friends, this two-day event offers something for everyone. In addition to the expansive artist market, attendees can enjoy live artist demonstrations, a bigger-than-ever Kids Zone with bounce houses and hands-on fun, delicious bites from local food trucks, and a special pop-up from neighborhood favorite DBA Barbecue.

“This event has truly become a Mother’s Day tradition not just for Atlantans, but for families across the Southeast,” says Randall Fox, founder of Atlanta Foundation for Public Spaces (AFFPS). “It’s a place where art meets community. Where you can spend the day discovering new artists, letting the kids explore, enjoying a great meal, and simply being together. That’s what makes it special, year after year.”

Chastain Park Spring Arts Festival (4469 Stella Drive, Atlanta, GA 30327) takes place rain or shine and is open to all ages. For more information, please visit www.chastainparkartsfestival.com and www.affps.com. Stay connected on Instagram at @affps_festivals. 

Sun., May 11, 11am-4pm – Mother’s Day Brunch at Atrium Celebrate Mother’s Day with an elevated multi-course brunch at Atrium located at Ponce City Market. Guests will enjoy a seasonal menu alongside a charming experience featuring a charm bar with It’s Especially Lucky and Polaroid photo opportunities for moms and kids. Please see here to make a reservation.

Sun., May 11, 11:30am-3:30pm – Mother’s Day Brunch at Carmel Carmel in Buckhead Village invites guests to a luxurious Mother’s Day brunch experience including a multi-course menu featuring vibrant, spring-inspired dishes, shareable appetizers, indulgent main entrées and fresh cocktails. Please see here to make a reservation.

Sun., May 11, 11am-4pm (Brunch) & 4-10pm (Dinner) – Mother’s Day Brunch Buffet & Dinner Buffet at Serena Pastificio

Celebrate Mom at Serena Pastificio with a special Mother’s Day brunch buffet! From 11am to 4pm, enjoy the best of Italy with a line-up of housemade pasta, cured meats, assorted antipasto and more, alongside a Mimosa Special ($40) that includes one bottle of prosecco plus orange, blood orange and grapefruit juices. $65 per adult and $25 per child (under 12) – reservations can be made via OpenTable here. 

Brunch menu standouts include: 

  • Selezione Pasticceria | Chef’s selection of sweet and savory pastries
  • Penne Bolognese | beef, pork, and pancetta Bolognese sauce, parmesan
  • Pollo E Waffle | fried chicken breast, lemon ricotta waffle, pomegranate maple syrup
  • Salumi | assorted cured meats and accompaniments 
  • Gamberi | pickled shrimp, charred shishito
  • Benedette Al Salmone | (made to order) poached egg, grilled salmon, artichoke spread, cucumber, lemon-basil hollandaise, English muffin
  • Fritatta | wild mushroom, fontina, braised leek, parsley 
  • Tiramisu | mascarpone, lady finger, brandy, marsala, cocoa powder
  • Limoncello Cake | mascarpone icing, limoncello glaze, toasted almond, candied lemon peel

The restaurant will also offer a special Dinner Buffet from 4-10pm. $65 per adult and $25 per child (under 12) – reservations can be made via OpenTable here. 

Dinner menu highlights include: 

  • Ciabatta Crostini
  • Octopus | char-grilled, confit tomato, gaeta olive, Mista vinaigrette, arugula
  • Short Rib | braised, spring vegetable ragu, jus
  • Fruita | assorted seasonal fruit preparations
  • Insalata Italiana | lettuce mix, fresh herbs tomato, sun-dried tomato, artichoke, Cerignola olive, pepperoncini, sunflower seed, ricotta salata, sherry vinaigrette 
  • Maitake | mushroom confit, arugula salsa verde, pecorino
  • Costolette Di Manzo | prime rib, fennel jus, mustard crema
  • Panna Cotta | vanilla, strawberry, aged balsamic
  • Morso Di Torta Al Cioccolato | chocolate cake, chocolate mousse, whipped cream

Sun., May 11, 11am-2pm – Mother’s Day Brunch at Lazy Betty

Usually open for dinner only, Lazy Betty will hold a special brunch service in honor of Mother’s Day, complete with a tasting menu curated specifically for the day, mimosas, bloody marys and sparkling wine pairings. Reservations are available here for $175 per person (inclusive of service) with an optional sparkling wine pairing for $125/pairing. Regular tasting menus will be available for dinner service from 6-8pm.

The Mother’s Day brunch menu, subject to change, is below.

  • Bread service – Laminated biscuit
  • Amuse – Egg royale, Irtysh river caviar & soubise
  • First Course – Soft Poached Bantam egg, poached snow crab, brown butter crumpet & hollandaise
  • Second Course – Foie French toast, bacon marmalade, maple pecan gastrique & pain perdue buttermilk panna cotta
  • Third Course – Unilateral poached steelhead trout, smoked trout cream, roe & crème fraiche potato
  • Fourth Course – Crepe cake, caramelized banana pastry cream, Grand Marnier & orange anglaise 

Sat., May 10, 12pm & Sun., May 11, 8pm – Ken Ford Annual Mother’s Day All White Brunch & Concert at City Winery AtlantaCity Winery Atlanta, located at Ponce City Market, invites guests to spend Mother’s Day weekend with them at their Ken Ford Annual Mother’s Day All White Brunch & concert. This two-show series features Ken Ford, the electrifying violinist who infuses the electric violin with unparalleled passion and creativity. See here to get tickets to the All White Brunch on Sat., May 10 & here to get tickets to the concert on Sun., May 11

Sun., May 11, 6-8pm – Mother’s Day Wine & Dessert Tasting at Saint Germain at Buckhead Village

Guests are invited to enjoy a curated selection of wines paired with exquisite desserts, hosted by Saint Germain Bakery’s chef. The experience will highlight elegant French pastries and premium wines, creating a memorable evening for mothers and daughters to celebrate together. Tickets will soon be available HERE.

… 

Sun., May 11, 11am-7pm – Mother’s Day Prix-Fixe Menu at The Southern Gentleman at Buckhead Village

Treat Mom to an elegant southern dining experience this Mother’s Day! The Southern Gentleman will have a special three-course prix-fixe menu available exclusively for Mother’s Day. Reservations are available HERE for $75 per adult (excluding tax & gratuity). Kids menu will be available and priced a la carte.

… 

Sun., May 11,  11am-close – Mother’s Day Gypsy Kitchen at Buckhead Village

Gypsy Kitchen invites guests for a bohemian escape & culinary adventure this Mother’s Day! Beginning at 11am, the restaurant will feature their classic brunch menu & dinner menus with chef features including a Spanish Tortilla Hash and Grilled Salmon with Chimichurri & Shaved Summer Corn Salad. They will also have a flamenco guitarist on the patio beginning at 4:30pm. Reservations are available here.

Sun., May 11,  11am-5pm – Mother’s Day Mimosa Service at Brush Sushi at Buckhead VillageBrush Sushi at Buckhead Village will offer a special mimosa service featuring a bottle of Cava, juice flight (orange, grapefruit, lychee-pineapple) and an assortment of fun, fresh garnishes. Guests are encouraged to pair the mimosas with one of Brush Sushi’s pastry baskets or brunch menu items. Please note that Brush’s hours are adjusted for the day, with brunch running from 11am-5pm. Reservations are available here.

RING IN MOTHER’S DAY AT AMORE E AMORE 

A Circus-Inspired Affair Featuring a Multi-Course Lunch and Dinner Menu, Whimsical Surprises, and More

Opening Early at Noon on Mother’s Day, May 11, 2025

This Mother’s Day, shine a spotlight on Mom, as Amore e Amore is pulling out all the stops. On Sunday, May 11th, the cherished Inman Park ristorante will open early at noon for a special prix-fixe lunch and dinner set, “Under the Big Top”— their current carnival-themed backdrop, where the magic is in the details and surprises are always part of the act. Honoring the ringleader of it all, guests are invited to enjoy a multi-course Italian menu featuring delectable dishes such as Wild Filet of Sole Piccata with Polenta, Gnocchi Vodka, Shrimp Scampi with Spinach, and more. For the little ones, Amore e Amore offers a children’s menu to give mom a minute with house-made pizza bites, meatballs, and playful portions of pasta favorites like cheese ravioli, fettuccine alfredo, and spaghetti and meatballs, all priced at $29.95. The Mother’s Day prix-fixe menus at Amore e Amore are priced at $75 per person for lunch and $100 for dinner, excluding alcohol, tax, and gratuity. Reservations for Mother’s Day require a $50 deposit per party. For more details or to make a reservation, visit www.amoreeamore.com or call 404-600-2176. Conveniently located at 467 N Highland Ave. NE Atlanta, GA 30307, Amore e Amore invites guests to stay connected on Facebook and Instagram at @eatamoreatl. 

CELEBRATE MOM WITH MEMORABLE MEALS AT ATLANTA RESTAURANTS THIS MOTHER’S DAY

From Bohemian Brunches to Elegant Prix-Fix Dinners,

Area Restaurants are Honoring Mothers with Special Menus and Experiences

This Mother’s Day, Atlanta restaurants invite guests to show appreciation for Mom with an unforgettable meal. Whether she prefers Southern classics, coastal flavors or globally inspired dishes, these local favorites are offering something special just for her. From decadent brunches to elevated dinner service, it’s the perfect excuse to gather the family and treat Mom to a well-deserved day out.

Buckhead

  • Gypsy Kitchen transports Mom to a bohemian escape this Mother’s Day with its signature brunch and dinner menus, plus chef features such as Spanish tortilla hash ($14) and grilled salmon with chimichurri and shaved summer corn salad ($32). Guests can also enhance their meal with a luxurious seafood paella ($47), with the option to add a half butter-poached lobster for $26. A flamenco guitarist will perform on the patio beginning at 4:30 p.m. Reservations can be made via OpenTable.
  • Nan Thai Buckhead will open its doors from 12-8 p.m. on Mother’s Day—an exception to its usual Sunday closure. Guests can enjoy a curated limited menu in the sophisticated Buckhead setting, offering a refined option for celebrating the occasion. Make reservations online.
  • For an intimate and refined Mother’s Day dinner, Omakase Table will be open for evening service, featuring its signature omakase experience. Guests can enjoy chef Leonard Yu’s curated courses crafted with the finest seasonal ingredients in a serene, reservation-only setting. It’s an ideal way to celebrate Mom with a meal that’s as thoughtful and elegant as she is. Reservations can be made via Resy.
  • For a coastal-inspired celebration, head to The Big Ketch Saltwater Grill on Mother’s Day specials like avocado toast with sunny-side eggs and heirloom tomatoes ($15), blackened seared tuna with summer watermelon feta salad ($29) and a sweet finish of house-made apple pie with cinnamon whipped cream and caramel sauce ($9). Make reservations via OpenTable.
  • The Southern Gentleman elevates the celebration with a $75 three-course prix-fixe menu featuring Southern-inspired dishes like deviled eggs with green tomato chow-chow, Southern fried chicken and skillet cake, lollipop lamb chops and Low Country lobster rice. Dessert offerings include a double chocolate layer cake and pineapple upside down cheesecake. An à la carte kids menu will also be available. Reservations can be made online.

Midtown

  • An Atlanta dining institution for generations, Mary Mac’s Tea Room will open an hour early at 10 a.m. this Mother’s Day to welcome guests for a meal steeped in Southern tradition. Serving its beloved full menu of authentic Southern fare, Mary Mac’s offers a comforting and nostalgic way to honor Mom on her special day.
  • Buena Vida Tapas Bar marks Mother’s Day with a festive brunch featuring live Latin music from 12–3 p.m. and indulgent specials. Guests can toast to the occasion with Collet Champagne, available by the glass for $12 or by the bottle for $55, and treat Mom to the savory steak eggs Benedict ($25)—a decadent twist on the classic. The tuna tartare ($18) is available all weekend long for something fresh and flavorful. Whether sipping bubbly on the patio or savoring every bite indoors, Buena Vida offers the perfect Beltline backdrop to make her day unforgettable.

Westside

  • Chichería Mexican Kitchen adds bold flavors to Mother’s Day with a variety of specials. Featured entrées include herb-crusted salmon fillet served over truffle roasted cauliflower purée with asparagus and a smoky morita glaze ($23) and sautéed shrimp paired with sweet corn risotto, queso fresco and guajillo sauce ($20). Guests can also toast Mom with bottomless mimosas ($25) made with brut sparkling wine and a choice of classic, tropical, blackberry, guava or limited-edition flavors. Reservations can be made via OpenTable.
  • For a Mother’s Day celebration that’s anything but ordinary, Your 3rd Spot invites families to connect over curated experiences, elevated cuisine and heartfelt moments. From a nostalgic card-crafting station and family photo booth to unlimited gaming across 165+ experiences, this is a memory-making day Mom won’t forget. Guests can choose from two packages: Mom & Me ($35 per person/$24 for members) includes unlimited gaming, a MOMosa for every mom, card-making and photo ops. Memory Maker ($62 per adult/$48 for members) adds a six-course Taste & Explore brunch menu and kids meals. A complimentary MOMosa, DJ spinning mom-requested tunes and a surprise gift for Mom round out the celebration. Reservations are recommended for this immersive experience and can be made online.

SWEET AUBURN BARBECUE PRESENTS THE FIRST-EVER GOOD LUCK SMOKESHOW

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

ENJOY AN EVENING OF FREE FAMILY-FRIENDLY FUN AT THE AVENUE WEST COBB’S SPRING FESTIVAL

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 4/15/25

Thursday, April 17 5-7pm

Atlanta area families are invited to the Avenue West Cobb for their Spring Festival; an evening filled with FREE family-friendly activities ahead of Easter Sunday. The Avenue’s Spring Festival is the culmination of the center’s BLOOM campaign; a month-long series of events designed to promote sustainability and celebrate the coming of spring.

 The Avenue at West Cobb Spring Festival offers guests the perfect mix of entertainment, shopping and celebration, featuring:

  • The chance to meet the Easter Bunny
  • Easter-themed activities including an egg drop for kids ages 5 and under and a scavenger hunt for older children
  • A petting farm
  • Face painting and more fun activities for the whole family

WHERE:         The Avenue West Cobb – Green Space

                        3625 Dallas Hwy

                        Marietta, GA 30064