Sara in the City: The Pick Up Publix and Other "Hot" Food Joints

The Publix supermarket in my neighborhood is fondly known as the "Pick Up Publix." Located near Midtown, it's teeming with good looking people at all times. Go in after work, on a Sunday afternoon or on a Friday night wine run and you'll find attractive young professionals, adorable single moms and a handsome older fella or two. Even the cashiers' friendly smiles help with the attractive ambiance.

Although Forbes lists Atlanta as its number one city for singles, you can't count on finding love in the produce aisle. And you want to make sure your date has the same interests as you (food, food and more food). That's why I've composed this list of eateries frequented by interesting, attractive people that offer delish meals.

Fox and Hounds - Collier Road, MidtownFilled with handsome Georgia Tech students, this neighborhood haunt features classic British pub fare, a great deck, and 1/2 price food on Mondays. I suggest: $1 draft beer and $1 fish tacos on Sundays.

Tin Lizzies - Roswell Road, BuckheadFriday nights at Tin Lizzies bring out the best in Buckhead yuppies. Margaritas flow as the upwardly mobile flirt with one another. I suggest: BBQ Chicken Taco and Queso for a spicy night!

TAP - Peachtree Street, MidtownHotshot lawyers abound at this Midtown gastropub. Located on the ground level of 1180 Peachtree, home to King & Spalding, all three levels of this restaurant feature great food and attractive clientele. I suggest: Ordering a round of Numbers beer, made especially for TAP by our friends at Atlanta Brewing Co., and the fried pickles. Eat on the street level patio for great people watching.

Blind Willie's - N. Highland Avenue, VaHiCome for the soulful blues tunes, stay for the dancing, and leave tired and full! A perfect spot to mingle with a diverse crowd and have a taste of New Orleans. I suggest: The fried alligator.

The Chophouse - Turner Field, DowntownI know, I know. The Braves haven't been the best this year. But the drinks, burgers and view from (and around) the Chophouse are still more than satisfactory. Plan to take advantage of the cooler temps at the beginning of next season and cozy up with other Braves fans on the Chophouse deck. I suggest: A Georgia Dog, Turner Field's take on the traditional ballpark hotdog.

The Treehouse - Peachtree Hills Ave., BuckheadNestled in a quaint neighborhood, this great bistro is a regular stop for after work cocktails. The fun atmosphere and outdoor seating lends itself to socializing and meeting new (and cute) people. I suggest: Treehouse pizza and fresh spinach salad.

Taco Mac - Locations throughout the Metro areaTaco Mac is one of my favorite places for wings and sports in Atlanta and the Lindbergh Station location does not disappoint. Monday night football blares on the big screens and good looking fans of all ages gather to cheer on their favorite team. I suggest: Horseradish Chicken Wrap or the traditional Taco Mac buffalo wings.

Atlanta Dish Gets a New Look!

Time for a revamp of your favorite blog! Atlanta Dish has gone through minor renovations to stay up-to-date and looking fresh. We hope you enjoy the updated logo and look as much as we do!

Get Out of the Office... and Go Out for Lunch!

Popular lunch destinations off the beaten path may be the best places to grab some food on your lunch break! Eclipse di Luna, located in Miami Circle right off of Piedmont, offers sensational lunch options that may have you branching out from your usual hot spots! Eclipse di Luna is well known with the locals for their specialty tapas, live music, and an artsy, laid-back atmosphere. The menu is packed with a wide alternative of options from tapas ($2.25 to $5.95) as well as Spanish paella ($14.50 or $20). Eclipse di Luna is open for lunch Tuesday through Saturday at 11:30 a.m. offering a great way to enjoy yourself and relax during your lunch hour.

Portofino, a neighborhood Italian restaurant located off of East Paces Ferry Road is a great place for a casual, yet delicious lunch. Executive Chef Marty Eberly is always busy cooking up a lunch menu that is sure not to disappoint! Portofino is open for lunch 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. So head out on your next break, you'll never pack lunch again!


Eclipse di Luna – Miami Circle: 764 Miami Circle; 404-846-0449. Also Eclipse di Luna – Park Place: 4505 Ashford-Dunwoody Road in Dunwoody; 678-205-LUNA.



Portofino: 3199 Paces Ferry Place; 404-231-1136.

The Times, They Are A Changin’ . . .Morton’s The Steakhouse And Woodfire Grill Are Extending Hours

For some reason, my body doesn’t adjust well to the new time when the clock goes forward in the spring. When the time changes in the fall, however, it feels like I just won the clock lottery, a “cloctery,” if you will. This year, I got a little preview on my cloctery feeling when some of my favorite spots made time changes of their own.

Morton’s The Steakhouse, usually a dinner only spot, is adding special 11:30 a.m. – 2 p.m. lunch hours on December 11, 12, 18 and 19 at both Atlanta locations. Go for the amazing steak, stay for the delectable carrot cake.

Morton’s The Steakhouse-Buckhead: Peachtree Lenox Building, 3379 Peachtree Road, NE; 404-816-6535.

Morton’s The Steakhouse-Downtown: SunTrust Plaza Building, 303 Peachtree Center Avenue; 404-577-4366.

Woodfire Grill, Atlanta’s favorite farm-to-table restaurant, added another day and an extra half hour to dinner time. Does that mean that, although I just celebrated my birthday, I am actually getting younger since I have more time to enjoy fresh favorites, like local sweet corn soup ($8)? Wishful thinking, perhaps... Anyway, starting November 3, the Midtown restaurant will be open for dinner Monday through Saturday, and doors will open a half hour earlier at 5:30 p.m. instead of 6 p.m.

Woodfire Grill: 1782 Cheshire Bridge Road; 404-347-9055.

Don't Forget to Vote .... for Dogwood!

We know there's another election going on, but this one doesn't require hours standing in line! We're casting our vote for Dogwood restaurant in the Atlanta Downtown Design Excellence Competition. But don't wait til the last minute. This is the last week to vote for your favorites in Atlanta architecture and design. Winners in the five contested categories will be announced November 6. Check out the videos of each nominee and cast your ballot today!

Halloween Haunts

Don't have plans for Halloween yet? We've got the scoop on hot Halloween par-tays no matter whether you are OTP or ITP!

Alpharetta, Vinings, Midtown, Kennesaw and Tucker are covered at Marlow's Tavern. $5 creepy cocktails, monster mashing music and CASH prizes for cool costumes sound frightfully fun.

Roswell residents get to trick or treat for a good cause. Aqua blue’s 6th Annual Aqua Boo benefits the Susan G. Komen Foundation. Fill up on thrilling half-price appetizers and chilling $5 cocktails all day long! Have a ghoulishly good time with DJ dance music from 9 p.m. on, dance contests, horror movie trivia and door prizes.

Happy Halloween!

DailyCandy Definition

Steer clear of the valet posse and park it yourself makes you a candidate for self-valetdation. In this health-conscious era that’s not a sin, according to The DailyCandy Lexicon, and you can even work off those calories before you begin chewing!

Self-valetdation: n. Every now and then, when one parks on one’s own, just to get away from it all.

Celebrate National Chocolate Day at Morton's The Steakhouse

Who knew that there were actually two fabulous holidays this week? Not only do we have an excuse to dress up in ridiculous outfits for Halloween, but we can also divulge in as much chocolate as we want to celebrate National Chocolate Day today! How else are we supposed to celebrate this special occasion? It is our duty to consume as much chocolate as possible and Morton's The Steakhouse has the perfect dish to do just that. Tonight, spoon into their chocolate mousse dessert, laden with semi-sweet Belgian dark chocolate.

In honor of this day, the restaurant is also sharing its recipe (no one will tell if you eat two helpings).

Chocolate Mousse - Serves 8
3 cups heavy cream
2 ounces semi-sweet dark chocolate, preferably Belgian
3 tbsp. unsweetened cocoa
1 cup egg whites
¼ tsp. cream of tartar
¼ tsp. salt
½ cup sugar

Bring half the heavy cream to a boil in a saucepan. Place the chopped chocolate and cocoa powder in a medium mixing bowl and pour the boiling cream over the chocolate. Let the chocolate, cocoa and cream sit for one minute, then whisk together with a wire whisk until blended. Be sure any large balls of cocoa have been broken up. Set aside.


When chocolate's temperature has come down to 80ºF, beat the egg whites on high speed in a chilled mixer for approximately 10 seconds until they begin to foam.


Add the cream of tartar and salt to the egg whites; beat for approximately one additional minute, until soft peaks form.


Sprinkle in sugar, continuing to beat until stiff, but not dry, for another minute. The whites should make a "wop, wop, wop" sound in the mixing bowl and be very stiff.

Check temperature of the chocolate again to be sure it has come down to 80ºF; fold in the beaten egg white mixture.


Add remaining heavy cream to chilled mixing bowl. Whip on high speed until soft peaks form, approximately two minutes. Fold the whipped cream into the chocolate - egg white mixture.
Cover with plastic wrap. Refrigerate overnight or at least four hours.


Using a pastry bag with a star tip, pipe six ounces of mousse in individual serving dishes and top with fresh whipped cream.


Morton's The Steakhouse-Buckhead: Peachtree Lenox Building, 3379 Peachtree Road, NE; 404-816-6535.
Morton's The Steakhouse-Downtown: SunTrust Plaza Building, 303 Peachtree Center Avenue; 404-577-4366.

Save 20% At Fifth Group Restaurants When You Purchase Camp Twin Lakes Partners Card

Atlanta Dish readers, Camp Twin Lakes is keeping their online Partners Card store open one more day just for you! Tomorrow is the last day to purchase Camp Twin Lakes Partners Cards online. This card gets buyers 20 percent off at more than 500 shops and restaurants! Click here before midnight on Tuesday, October 28 to purchase your Camp Twin Lakes Partners Card online. Granted, you won’t turn into a pumpkin if you fail to do so, but you will miss out on 20 percent savings at more than 500 Atlanta shops and restaurants from November 1-9, 2008! Use your card at participating Fifth Group Restaurants®: South City Kitchen® Midtown, South City Kitchen® Vinings, Ecco and La Tavola Trattoria. The card costs $60 – a mere pittance compared to the savings you’ll enjoy and the inner glow of knowing your $60 will help brighten many young lives. Camp Twin Lakes, a nonprofit organization accredited by the American Camp Association, offers year-round recreational, therapeutic and educational programs for children and young adults facing serious illnesses and other physical, emotional and life challenges.

From Burgers to Brisket: Enjoying the Best of Beef At Woodfire Grill's White Oak Pastures Dinner

I have had the pleasure of trying White Oak Pastures' ground beef on two different occasions. Both times I cooked it myself, by seasoning the beef, forming into patties, grilling and slapping it on a bun. The burgers were delicious, full of flavor and I loved knowing that it was locally-raised grassfed beef. That's why I was excited to find out that Atlanta's very own Woodfire Grill was hosting a sustainably-raised beef four- course dinner on Thursday, October 23, featuring White Oak Pastures beef.

My beau and I headed to Woodfire Grill last night and right when we walked in we bumped into the man himself, Will Harris, owner of White Oak Pastures. It was really neat to meet him and chat about the dinner. We then sat down in our booth in the newly renovated restaurant and took a look at the prix fixe menu. We decided to go with the wine pairing for each course to really get the full experience.

Our first course (right) was a trio of beef tenderloin including, traditional tartare with organic truffle oil and olives; carpaccio with horseradish emulsion, arugula oil and pink pepper and grilled rare beef with ginger, shaved onion and hot Chile oil. This course was accompanied by a 2004 Marques de Gelida Brut Exclusive Reserva, Cava, Spain. The plate was extremely colorful and the perfect teaser for the courses to come.

The next course (right) was a wood grilled strip loin with Yorkshire pudding, Hakeuri turnips, creamed turnip greens and natural jus. It was accompanied by a 2006 Casa Lapostolle Merlot Rapel, Chile. This course really surprised me. Turnips just didn't sound all to enticing to me, but they were amazing! Not to mention, the meat was cooked to perfection.

Our third and main course (left) was a slow cooked beef brisket with roasted carrot puree, marinated radish, fried pumpkin seeds and smoked chile jus. This dish was accompanied by a 2005 Santa Rita Carmanere Reserve, Rapel Chile. This brisket was so tender and the carrot puree was the perfect accompaniment. Another enjoyable course with beautiful execution.

Lastly, for dessert we had a bittersweet chocolate cake with roasted peanut-chocolate chip ice cream and fried banana sauce. As you can see in the picture, I dug right into this one and forgot to take the photo first. This dessert was accompanied by a 2007 Banfi Roso Regale, Brachetoo D' Acqui, Italy. The ice cream was surprisingly salty but when put with the rich chocolate cake, it was an unforgettable combo. This dessert was the perfect ending to an amazing meal at Woodfire Grill.

Overall, the evening was a fun way to try what both Woodfire Grill and White Oak Pastures have to offer. It's really great to see a restaurant support their local farmers and I thought it was so cool that Will Harris came out for the event. I can't wait to try and cook some of the other cuts of meat myself. I'm sure it won't even compare to Chef Kevin Gillespie's menu, but a girl can try!

Aqua Vino at The Georgia Aquarium

Last night I attended the 3rd annual Aqua Vino event at the Georgia Aquarium. The event invited guests to enjoy the entire Aquarium and the Grand Oceans Ballroom from 7-9:30 PM. Throughout the night, guests were invited to sample from more than 200 exceptional wines from around the world and gourmet fare from some of Atlanta's top restaurants.

One of my favorite samplings was from Dogwood restaurant -- they served up the best shrimp and grits I've had in awhile. Guests were also able to bid at the remarkable Silent and "Get Hooked" auctions. Proceeds went to benefit the Aquarium's state-of-the-art Veterinary Services facility and the Correll Center for Aquatic Animal Health.

Sara in the City - Cheese Dip Bailout?

Times are tough. The economy is down, gas prices are unpredictable and it seems like the cost of food rises daily. Food lovers like us are feeling the pressure and we can't expect a gourmet government bailout.

Depressing, huh?

But there are rays of sunshine to be found, and I located one in strip mall in Collier Hills. The beacon of hope is Salsa Havana, a Latin bistro with menu items inspired by Spanish, Mexican and South American cuisine. The food was delish and inexpensive, the service was great and the fresh sangria hit the spot.

But what makes this simple restaurant different from any other neighborhood Mexican joint? What makes it the light and hope for food lovers in our awful economy?

Free cheese dip refills.

No, you aren't hallucinating. Salsa Havana offers free refills on their creamy, three-cheese dip. Gathering with friends and indulging in this scrumptious dip is the perfect way to get rid of your financial woes. If you're craving something more substantial, try the grilled flank steak with fried plantains or the paella. It's so good, you'll want to dance for joy! Luckily, Salsa Havana sponsors salsa dancing classes the second Saturday of every month.

Thanks, Salsa Havana, for keeping both my wallet happy, my stomach full and my feet moving!

Sara C

Whipahol is Wacky!

Now that John Kessler has broken the news in his article in today's AJC, it's safe for me to admit that I was at the Whipahol tasting a week or so ago at Eclipse di Luna on Miami Circle. It's like Reddi Whip with alcohol. Whipalicious? Well, not sure I'd go that far. Potent enough to whip you into a drunken stupor after a few? Without a doubt.

A small group of Yelpers were carefully selected (by me) based on their adventurous spirit and fondness for cocktails. We tasted all four flavors: amaretto, cinnamon, orange and macadamia. The bar staff at Eclipse di Luna were Whipahol wizards, blending concoctions like vanilla vodka and orange Whipahol (no thanks) and Frangelico with amaretto (yes!).

This product isn't legal in Georgia yet but I'm sure it will be a hit when it is. I might be able to score a sample if anyone wants to try!

Woodfire Grill Serves Locally Raised White Oak Pastures Beef At October 23 Dinner

A while ago, when Team MLA joined Whole Foods Market’s Eat Local Challenge, I was introduced to Will Harris's White Oak Pastures in Bluffton, GA, through the beautful flank steak I grilled (which was also delish). Tomorrow, October 23, Harris’s grass-fed beef will be the star of the show at Woodfire Grill’s four-course dinner, where guests will dine on three beef courses and cap the night with a delectable dessert. The White Oak Pastures dinner, which is the first in a series of dinners planned to benefit Slow Food Atlanta, costs $60 per person (excluding tax and gratuity) and $25 for wine pairings. Slow Food Atlanta will receive 10 percent of the evening's proceeds. Reserve your seating from 6 p.m. on; call 404-347-9055.

Woodfire Grill: 1782 Cheshire Bridge Road; 404-347-9055.

Pinot Noir, Ce Soir? Try 15 at Toulouse Wine Tasting on October 22!

If you're like me, you enjoy a good glass of wine from time to time but really know much about what you are actually drinking. I have come for find out that I like Pinot Noir but, where does it come from? What gives it that fabulous color? What types are best? The list goes on and on. Well, I'm in luck because Toulouse American Bistro has an informative and entertaining night school opportunityfor those of us who want to learn more. Toulouse, the cozy French-American bistro overlooking Peachtree Creek, has earned a big name and a plethora of accolades in wine tasting circles since opening in 1994. This month's Pinot Noir tasting on Wednesday, October 22 follows in that tradition. Beginning at 6:30 p.m., guests may sample 15 wines accompanied by palate cleansers for $30 per person. Toulouse holds monthly wine tastings, ranging in price from $30 to $45 per person depending on the featured wines. Reserve your spot now by calling 404-351-9533. Toulouse: 2293 Peachtree Road; 404-351-9533.

DailyCandy Definition

Do you encourage your friend, Dieting Donna, to order dessert or super-size it? Guilty? Well then, according to The DailyCandy Lexicon, you are a sinabler. If you order up the same for yourself, does that make you co-diet-dependent?

Sinabler-n. Someone who’s a bad influence on your diet.

Pork & Cork at South City Kitchen Midtown

Since the debates are over, there is no reason to sit at home tomorrow night listening to talk of pork barrel spending. Instead, visit South City Kitchen Midtown to eat and talk all things pork. Executive Chef Dean Dupuis is dishing up a special prix fixe wine dinner featuring Benton Smoky Mountain Country Hams. Allen Benton, the pork master himself, will be the guest of honor at tomorrow's dinner so come hungry, come with questions, but leave politics at home!

El Taco Preview Party

Last night I attended one of the preview parties for Fifth Group Restaurant's newest venture, The Original El Taco (which translates as The Original The Taco). As expected, this place was packed with people who couldn't wait to try out this new Mexican joint. Menu selections included lime-salted corn chips with salsa, "just-crushead" avocado guacamole, Mexican pizza, fajita salad and tacos. Cocktails that were served included beer, wine, margaritas and the favorite of the evening -- a frozen mojito. Fun, funky and fresh are all words I would use to describe this new eatery. Oh, and the best part -- they have a prize wheel! Upon entering, we were handed a chip with a number on it. Every 30 minutes, a server would spin the wheel and call out the winning chip. Customers won items such as a cup of queso, fajitas and I believe they were giving away beer as well. To my surprise, I learned that the prize wheel is going to be part of the restaurant every day.

Carbonara Night at La Tavola Trattoria

Be sure to drop in La Tavola Trattoria on Monday nights for heaping bowls of carbonara. The Virgina Highlands neighborhood trattoria offers a hearty bowl of carbonara and a mixed lettuce salad every Monday night for $15.95. Since this great deal is sure to bring in crowds, the restaurant recommends making a reservation by calling 404-873-5430.

La Tavola Trattoria: 992 Virginia Avenue, NE; 404-873-5430.

Sheryl Crow Bag at Whole Foods

I got my Yelp bag, my Sackaroos bags, and now I'm gonna get my Sheryl Crow bag too. Cuz a girl can never have too many reusable grocery bags, right? Kinda like shoes. And admirers.

Starting this week, stylish Whole Foods Market® shoppers can tote a new reusable bag designed by Sheryl Crow. Her exclusive design supports The Natural Resources Defense Council’s (NRDC) Simple Steps program by reminding shoppers that simple lifestyle changes have big results in helping the environment. You can buy the earth-toned bag with a charcoal sketch of a tree for 99 cents (large) or 79 cents (small). They are made from 80 percent post-consumer recycled plastic bottles (about four 20-ounce bottles for each bag).

These will make cute holiday gifts filled with some "green" goodies.

VITA Rocks Your Week With Live Music

Head to Tony LaRocco's VITA for live music and heaping plates of New York Italian-style cuisine every Wednesday through Saturday night starting at 9:30 p.m. The Darren Winters Band plays on Wednesday and Thursday nights, and the Atlanta Soul Band performs on Fridays and Saturdays. No cover charge, and the kitchen cooks until 1 a.m. Reserve your table by calling 404-367-8482.

Be Blessed By The Brew Of Belgian Trappist Monks At Morton's The Steakhouse In Buckhead

In the quiet Abbey of Scourmont, in the small Belgian town of Chimay, Cistercian Trappist monks have been hopping -- brewing Chimay ale on-site from all-natural ingredients and Abbey spring water since 1862. Fast forward to 6 – 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, October 16 at Morton’s The Steakhouse Buckhead to sample three different Chimay ales – Chimay Première, Chimay Grand Réserve and Chimay Cinq Cents - while also helping the Make-A-Wish Foundation®. Completing the fellowship of the ales will be Morton’s petite filet mignon sandwiches, tuna tartare canapés, sliced smoked salmon and Morton’s legendary hot chocolate cake . . . and a Chimay glass goblet to take home. This year marks the 25th anniversary of Chimay in the U.S.! $45 per person (inclusive of tax and gratuity), with $5 per ticket going to the Make-A-Wish Foundation® as part of the restaurant company’s national “30 Wishes for 30 Years” campaign. For tickets or information, call 404-816-6535. Morton’s The Steakhouse Buckhead: Peachtree Lenox Building, 3379 Peachtree Road, NE; 404-816-6535.

Rhone River Valley Wine Tasting at Woodfire Grill

Woodfire Grill's next wine tasting will be through the Rhone River Valley's most distinct red wine making regions on Wednesday, October 15. With the beautiful fall weather we're having, guests can opt to sit on the patio to enjoy Syrah, Grenache and Mourvedre based wines from Gigondas, Côtes du Rhône, Chateauneuf du Papes, Côte-Rôtie, Roussillon and Crozes Hermitage along with a couple from South America and Australia.

I like to think of the tastings at Woodfire Grill as laid back learning . You simply sit in the dining room or on the patio with your friends and they bring the wines to you, at your own pace. Commentary included! Pouring beings around 7 p.m. The cost is $15 per person excluding tax and gratuity. The menu that night will be focused on dishes that pair well with the chosen wines. For reservations, click here.

Woodfire Grill: 1782 Cheshire Bridge Road; 404-347-9055.

DailyCandy Definition

Wouldn’t you want to know if you had PST? Thought so. “PST,” this week’s useful word from The DailyCandy Lexicon, is actually an acronym.

PST: Acronym. Poppy Seed in Teeth, pronounced “pssst” so as not to alert everyone else at the table.

Suggested usage: Psst. PST!

Atlanta's Table Supper Club at Dogwood Tomorrow

If you don't have plans this Tuesday, take the night off from cooking and dine out for a good cause. Dogwood is hosting this month's Atlanta's Table Supper Club from 5:30 p.m. until 10 p.m. on Tuesday, October 14. Enjoy refined regional cuisine in an elegant atmosphere while benefiting the Atlanta Community Food Bank. On Supper Club night, 20 percent of your tab will go directly to the Atlanta Community Food Bank to help fight hunger in our metro area. Reservations are strongly encouraged for this popular night out; call 404-835-1410.

Date Night With Diver Scallops

Periodically, the hubby and I try our hand at working cooperatively by cooking “together.” We systematically look for a recipe, shop for all the ingredients and spend an evening preparing it. Typically, this means he walks and talks to me while I shop for the ingredients, then, I cook and he assists. This is actually a great system for us since, in the end, it’s mostly about the time we share in the kitchen, and I tend to be more adventurous when it comes to tweaking the recipe.

Our next dish is courtesy of Todd Annis, executive chef of Bold American Catering. This week, his diver scallops with arugula recipe is featured in the “Key Ingredient” column of The Sunday Paper. I can’t wait to try it, since Annis notes that this is a quick and easy recipe, hopefully even we can’t mess it up. According to the chef, the most important things is to make sure to pick good, fresh ingredients, which works well with my effort to buy sustainable products.

Although I am sure they will not look as good as Annis', we're going to give it a whirl. I’ll be sure to keep you updated with photos when we try it…wish us luck!

The 7th Annual Taste of Atlanta

Chefs and food-lovers of all ages will find something to sink their teeth into at this weekend’s 7th Annual Taste of Atlanta on the streets of Atlantic Station. The Southeast’s most anticipated epicurean bonanza ventures beyond the ordinary to embrace green eats, kid-friendly treats, helping others, cleaning our earth and sipping fruits of the vine. With more than 70 restaurants participating in the October 11-12 event, there’s something to tempt you at every turn. Amica Insurance Kid’s Avenue provides hands-on culinary activities for young chefs, cooking demos and “Knights of the Realm” Medieval Times battle re-enactments between demonstrations. Country Road supports local and organic ideologies of the Slow Food Movement through fun and educational opportunities. The Green and Leafy team assures no leftovers, showing eco-friendly cookware and accessories, holding on-site recycling, and making sure extra food goes straight to the Atlanta Community Food Bank. VIP ticket holders can take in the Expanded Wine Experience in TWELVE Atlantic Station and Bowling and Brews in Ten Pin Alley, and all adults can enjoy the Discover Wines with Robert Mondavi Wine Tour (formerly Crush in the City).

$5 Martini Round-Ups Shake Things Up At Aqua Blue,Vita And Dogwood

Five-dollar martinis at Aqua blue, Vita and Dogwood are shaking up cocktail time from Roswell to Buckhead to Midtown! Aqua blue rocks the bar with Smirnoff martinis -- The Dirty South martini with olive juice; the Washington Apple martini with Washington Apple Burst and sour mix; the Tampa Bay martini with pineapple juice, peach schnapps, cranberry juice and a splash of sour; the New York martini with Pom juice, pomegranate schnapps and a splash of sour; and the Blue Martini that brings together Ketel One Citron, Island Blue Pucker, blue Curacao and a splash of sour. In Buckhead, lively NYC-Italianesque Vita shakes up $5 martinis all day, everyday. Down Peachtree in Midtown, Dogwood trades a Lincoln for a martini day in, night out, and backs Abe with heady regional fare.

Aqua blue: 1564 Holcomb Bridge Road in Roswell; 770-643-8886.
Dogwood: 565 Peachtree Street; 404-835-1410.
VITA: 2110 Peachtree Road; 404-367-8482.

A Mouthful To Pronounce, But Worth Every Bite: Abbondanza at La Tavola Trattoria

Beginning today, Virginia-Highland neighborhood favorite La Tavola Trattoria is making it abundantly clear that you and your friends must hurry in to celebrate the bountiful cultural and culinary wealth of Italy’s heartland. The restauant's $39.95 prix fixe Abbondanza menu is available through October 18. Or, if you're craving a particular dish, the special menu is also available à la carte. Watch Executive Chef Craig Richards making the baked ricotta salad from the menu here. Vajra Stratigos, Fifth Group Restaurants’ beverage director, recommends completing your Abbondanza menu selections with Italian wines from La Tavola’s abundant list: Zenato, Valpolicella, Veneto 2006; Avanta, Pinot Grigio, Veneto 2007; Antonio Coscia, Arneis, Piedmont 2005; and Coltibuono, Chianti Classico 2006, are a few to try. For reservations, click here. La Tavola Trattoria: 992 Virginia Avenue, NE; 404-873-5430.

DailyCandy Definition

Would you go fruit-loopy if someone ate your last bowl of Captain Crunch? Well, that’s life if you practice what The DailyCandy Lexicon deems Cereal Monogamy at your breakfast table.

Cereal Monogamy: n. a slavish devotion to one particular breakfast cereal.

Suggested usage: After three boxes of Cocoa Pebbles, I began to suspect he was a cereal monogamist.

Wicked Good Dinner

What seems like months ago, my roommate and I bought tickets to see Wicked for when it came to Atlanta's own Fox Theater. From the day we ordered the tickets, I was already making dinner plans. Before the show we're going to have dinner at my new favorite restaurant, Dogwood. Since we will be within walking distance of the theater, we can valet at the restaurant and not worry about parking. I love it when things are simple!

If you have not ordered tickets yet, then you will be interested in the moneysaving Dinner and Broadway show packages local restaurants will be offering. You can get a ticket and a special three-course menu at Ecco for the shows on Wednesday, October 15 and Wednesday, October 29 ($90 per person). On Tuesday, October 28, Dogwood will offer a three-course dinner package that includes dinner, a ticket to the show and valet parking ($95 per person). Seating times are at 5:30 p.m., 6 p.m. or 6:30 p.m. at either restaurant and tax, gratuity and alcohol are not included in package pricing.

Dogwood: 565 Peachtree Street; 404-835-1410.
Ecco: 40 7th Street, NE in Midtown; 404-347-9555.

Red Hook Beer Dinner at South City Kitchen Vinings Cures What Ales Ya

Feeling a little under the weather? Or is it that you just aren't ready for the change in weather? Either way South City Kitchen Vinings has the cure. They are hosting a unique Red Hook Beer Dinner on Thursday, October 9, that is sure to satisfy all of the senses . The four-course, prix-fixe dinner paired with Red Hook beer begins at 6:30 p.m. and costs $45 per person, plus tax and gratuity. Enjoy passed hors d'oeuvres of house-made andouille sausage en brioche with passion fruit mustard and smoked trout brandade with apple cabbage slaw and caraway crackers served with Kona Passion and Bud American Ale. The dinner menu includes cane syrup-glazed quail breast with cumin-spiked sweet potato gratin accompanied by Red Hook Blonde Ale; roasted mushroom meatloaf with harvest squash, Yukon gold potatoes, green beans and smoked chili ketchup served with Red Hook ESB; and dessert of apple- pecan tartlette with pumpkin-ale ice cream served with Red Hook Late Harvest Ale.

South City Kitchen Vinings: 1675 Cumberland Parkway; 770-435-0700.

Dogwood's New Menu is Awesome

I love birthdays! Especially mine. These people who don't want to celebrate theirs, well, I just don't get them.

So, last weekend was my birthday and I decided to head to Dogwood. They have a new fall menu I was dying to try and it's just such a pretty, special restaurant. We could not have been happier with the choice. Makes me wish I was getting a year older again this week. Okay, not really.

We started with the grits bar, of course. The Logan Turnpike "Fools Gold" grits have new toppings and we chose the braised forest mushrooms. YUM. Then we had the seared foie gras with smoked pumpkin, pecan-raisin toast and red wine-black pepper gastrique. Y'all. This was unbelievably good. Decadent. A must have. To balance the sinfulness of that dish we chose a soup for our other app - a root vegetable puree with a wild boar-cranberry sausage and lingonberries. Licked the bowl. Sure did.

For entrees I encouraged my friend to have the signature SoCo glazed pork chop with carmelized shallots and the most delicious sweet corn souffle while I tried a new dish - pecan rubbed tuna with fingerling potatoes, applewood smoked bacon, carmelized onions and bar-b-que drizzle. Another hit!

The nice folks at Dogwood insisted that we have dessert since it was my birthday. I chose the coffee gelato which really was the perfect ending. We also had the fried bread pudding that was delicious. On Friday, Meridith Ford Goldman gave the restaurant a glowing review in the Atlanta Journal Constitution - I see she had many of the same dishes I had!

If you haven't been to Dogwood yet, I encourage you to try it, even if it's not your birthday!

New Red Wine at Wolf Mountain Vineyards & Winery

I've had the privilege to visit Wolf Mountain Vineyards the past few weeks for their fall harvest. I've watched (and videotaped) the grapes come from the vine, get destemmed, crushed and the juices go into fermentation. It's been a very cool experience. I also got to see the first batch of Wolf Mountain's newest wine, Howling Wolf Red, be bottled. The limited-release is a non-vintage blend of Syrah and Cabernet Sauvignon with elegant tannins and a soft, fruity finish. Yep, I tried it. Howling Wolf Red will be available for purchase ($24.95 per bottle) only through Wolf Mountain beginning tomorrow, Saturday, October 4. Make a weekend trip to Dahlonega to get the first taste or trust mine and buy a bottle from their online store - since wines can now be shipped in Georgia.

Wolf Mountain Vineyards & Winery is located at 180 Wolf Mountain Trail in Dahlonega, Georgia; 706-867-9862. For driving directions click here.

NiceCream is Really Nice ... and Creamy!

I met Dr. Leon Lashner over a year ago and was soon invited to regular gatherings at the kitchen table in his loft to sample the non-dairy ice cream he was creating. His friends, old and new, would eagerly show up to take a spoonful of the newest flavor, check the progress of their favorites, and share their critiques. Most of all we were a fan club cuz this stuff rocks!

So it was more than awesome to see all that hard work come to fruition with Sunday's NiceCream launch event at Jake's in the Irwin Street Market. Over 200 hundred people came to try six flavors: Coocoo for Coconut, Dave's Chocolate, Tropical Vanilla Bean, Banana Chocolate Chip, Passion Fruit, and Double Cappuccino. All the ingredients are organic and top quality - no wonder it tastes so good. If you know someone who is lactose-intolerant, this will change his/her life! Have you tried the stuff they have to eat? Yuck!

And great news! Leon is dabbling in the sauce biz too. He had four sauces to try: Strawberry Balsamic (my fave), Dark Spicy Chocolate, Sea-Salted Caramel, and Rum Sauce (I think this was a lot of people's fave). Right now you can buy NiceCream at any of the three Jake's Ice Cream locations.

It's pretty easy to have a dream or a grand idea. It's anything but easy to make it become a reality. Heck, it's not even easy to watch someone do it! Leon, who by day is a gifted chiropractor and homeopath, has methodically made this dream happen, one (sometimes difficult) step at a time.

I'm not saying go buy some NiceCream so you can support the American dream. I'm saying go buy it because it's frickin awesome! But doesn't it make it sweeter knowing this was just some guy in his house with an ice cream freezer saying, "Hey, I think I have an idea..."

Ecco Offers Lots of Lovin' Spoonfuls at The Sunday Share on October 5

Now that it's finally cooling off in Atlanta, soup weather is upon us. That delicious, warm feeling, filling you with goose bumps from head to toe? Yes, it’s a heady case of love at the first spoonful and you can get it by digging into that soup bowl at Ecco. More faithful than a Golden, more heartwarming than a Norman Rockwell painting, soup comforts and encourages conversation, without the worry of getting that piece of spinach salad between your teeth. Executive Chef Micah Willix is stirring up a house-made bouillabaisse that’s quite a catch for the bistro’s October 5 Sunday Share menu. $25 per person includes tax and gratuity; additional charge for alcoholic drink specials. Scoop up your friends or come solo to the communal table at 6:30 p.m. For reservations, call 404-347-9555.Ecco is a Fifth Group Restaurant located at 40 7th Street, NE in Midtown; 404-347-9555.

5th Annual Harvest Midtown Festival

This year's cultural event will be held on Saturday, October 4 from 1-5 p.m. Among the participating restaurants are favorites such as Ecco, South City Kitchen, Marlow'sTavern and Dogwood. And if that's not enough to fill a Saturday afternoon, guests will also enjoy a fall fashion show, an organic farmer's market and live chef demos.

The Harvest Midtown festival will be held on 5th Street between Peachtree and West Peachtree streets. A portion of the proceeds benefits the Arthritis Foundation.

Time to Buy Tix for Les Dames Event in November

As some of you know, I'm spending two weeks in Chile in November. Of course I'm looking forward to it, but I just realized I'm going to miss THE BEST food event of the year! Should I cancel???

Seriously, Les Dames D'Escoffier (LDEI), of which I am a proud member and secretary of the board, puts on a great event at Serenbe every year. The 8th Annual Afternoon in the Country, sponsored by LDEI is held on Sunday, November 9 starting at 1 p.m. at Serenbe in the Chattahoochee Hill Country. Over 50 chefs, restaurants, caterers, wineries, breweries and retailers will be on hand to dole out samples under big-top tents. An enormous silent auction, decadent cake raffle, live music, hayrides and more round out the afternoon. New this year is a Friday night event - a very nice one at that. On November 7, "Evening in the City" will be held at The Mansion on Peachtree. Only 75 tickets will be sold to this exclusive event. The evening begins with a 51st floor champagne "view of the city" reception followed by a four-course Wente Vineyards wine dinner and a private concert by renowned jazz vocalist Francine Reed.

So whether you're a city slicker or a country bumpkin, as long as you enjoy good food and wine, I promise you will enjoy these events. Among the participants are favorites such as Bold American®,Ecco, La Tavola Trattoria, Via Elisa Pasta, White Oak Pastures, Whole Foods Market and Woodfire Grill. Please go and have some sips and nibbles for me!!

Click here for tickets to either event. Proceeds benefit Georgia's organic farming community and the scholarship fund for women in the culinary, beverage and hospitality arts. Atlanta LDEI is a 501 (c)(3) tax-exempt organization.

And yes, this picture is of some Dames having fun at White Oak Pastures. That's Angie Mosier, me, Cathy Conway, Carolyn O'Neil and Virginia Willis. See how fun we are? Tee hee.