It's Time to Meet the Best of the Best

It's great to be good at something, but there is nothing like being the best. Atlanta magazine celebrates those who beat out the rest at this year's "Best of Atlanta" party from 7-10 p.m. on Monday, February 16 at Cobb Galleria Centre. Winners for 2008 were published in their December issue, and now it's time to meet their chefs and sample their divine dishes. More than 40 of Atlanta's top restaurants will be at the annual tasting extravaganza, including Fogo de Chão with its mouthwatering meats and skilled gauchos. Complimentary cocktails, live entertainment and an impressive silent auction all add to a winning evening...especially for Camp Twin Lakes, recipient of the night's proceeds. Tickets are $60 per person. VIP ticket, $125 per person, gains 6 p.m. admission. To purchase tickets, click here.

Camp Twin Lakes provides places and paths for children with serious illnesses and life challenges to experience the joys of childhood and to grow in their confidence and capabilities. Watch the Camp Twin Lakes' camp video!

Give Your Man the Treat of Meat for Valentine's Day

Valentine’s Day is getting closer by the minute and I have some great suggestions for women who are looking to put a huge smile on their man’s face. Red meat and wine are sure-fire ways to a man’s heart, so this year Fogo de Chão Brazilian Steakhouse, Morton’s the Steakhouse and Wolf Mountain Vineyards and Winery are at the top of my list for V-Day destinations with my hubby.

Valentine’s Day isn’t usually considered a man’s favorite holiday, but this year, Fogo de Chão’s 15 savory cuts of meat are giving men a new reason to look forward to the heart shaped boxes of chocolates and the inevitable red roses. The restaurant will be offering special Valentine’s Day hours, serving dinner from 3 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. on Saturday, February 14. Fogo de Chão: 3101 Piedmont Road; 404-266-9988.

Morton’s the Steakhouse joins together its signature steak and seafood dishes in a heavenly match that’s just $99.99 for two. Each person will savor a single-cut filet; their choice of seafood options including Morton’s jumbo lump crab cake, Shrimp Alexander or broiled sea scallops; choice of Caesar or Morton’s salad; and a choice of Morton’s legendary hot chocolate cake or Key lime pie for dessert. Call ahead for reservations. 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.

And, if escaping the city is part of your quest for the ultimate love potion, venture to Wolf Mountain Vineyards and Winery in Dahlonega for the winery’s third annual Valentine Gourmet Dinner on Saturday, February 14 at 7 p.m. The six-course dinner with wine pairings costs $80 per person. Sunday, February 15 brings another option, Wolf Mountain’s Valentine Brunch for $30 per person at either the 12:30 p.m. or 2:30 p.m. seating. Reservations are a must for these events; call 706-867-9862. Wolf Mountain Vineyards and Winery: 180 Wolf Mountain Trail in Dahlonega.

Sara in the City: Bacon Across Atlanta

You all know the ladies of Atlanta Dish can't get enough bacon in our lives. Bacon Salt, the Fabada Asturiana (chorizo with bacon and white bean stew) at Eclipse de Luna, the wonderful green tomato and bacon salad dressing at Dogwood, we even love the Italian version of bacon, pancetta, on a wood fired pizza from Ecco. Ever vigilant as we are, we strive to get bacon in our lives through any means necessary and we want to enable your bacon habit too!

First, begin your morning by flossing with Bacon Floss, a brilliant invention combining oral health and bacon flavor. Then, stop by The Flying Biscuit for a healthy bacon option - their breakfast dishes use fresh, crispy turkey bacon. Next head to work and review this bacon flowchart courtesy of an Atlanta Thrashers forum on bacon:

With all this hard work, you'll be ready for lunch in no time. Try the Fried Egg and Grilled Cheese B.L.T. from Buckhead Diner for your midday bacon fix. Add the house specialty, homemade potato chips with blue cheese, for an extra sinful and mouth watering meal. Get back to work and renew your membership to the Bacon of the Month Club, which sends fresh gourmet bacon right to your doorstep! Don't forget to join the I LOVE BACON Facebook group and check out your favorite bacon blogs: I HEART BACON and Bacon Unwrapped.

What's for dinner? Bacon, of course! For bacon-y tapas, I love Fuego's Dream Dates - dates stuffed with gorgonzola, wrapped in bacon and grilled to gooey perfection. For those of you with fancy bacon taste, the bacon wrapped chicken and steak at Fogo de Chao is sure to please.

Finally, try and make some time to visit your local YMCA and hop on the treadmill to prevent clogged arteries. Just a suggestion from one bacon lover to another...

Dad Deserves a Delicious Dinner This Father's Day

Around my house, Father’s Day has always been a full fledge holiday and is also the only time when Dad allows others to dote on him. It wasn’t until I was grown that I understood why: my father works extremely hard for our family. For him, beyond birthdays, Christmas and any other gift giving season that has been added to the calendar over the years, Father’s Day celebrates the accomplishment of which he is the most proud – my siblings and I.

This year, make dad even more proud by creating lasting memories with him at his favorite (or soon to be favorite) restaurant. Cheers to dads everywhere!!! Happy Father’s Day!!!

Take Dad to Atlanta’s beef haven, Fogo de Chão, where he can sit back and be showered with 15 savory cuts of delicious meat, carved tableside by request with no limit. And for Dads who don’t do meat, their stunning salad bar is sure to hit the spot. Atlanta’s Fogo de Chão, located at 3101 Piedmont Road, provides a succulent slice of Southern Brazilian hospitality on Father’s Day for lunch ($38.50) from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and for dinner ($48.50) from 4 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. To make reservations, call 404-266-9988.

Both Atlanta locations of Morton’s The Steakhouse will offer a four-course steak and seafood dinner for two on Sunday, June 15. For $99, this special surf and turf menu includes two single-cut filets; a choice of two seafood options (Morton’s jumbo lump crab cake, shrimp Alexander or broiled sea scallops); a choice of two salads (Caesar or Morton’s salad); one Morton’s signature potato and one fresh vegetable to share; and lastly, a choice of two desserts (Morton’s legendary hot chocolate cake or Key lime pie). Regular hours for both locations: 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. on Sunday. Additionally, the Morton’s Steak Bible ($30) and steak knives (set of six is $55 and set of two is $20) will be available for purchase at the restaurants as gifts for Dad. Buckhead: Peachtree Lenox Building at 3379 Peachtree Road, NE; 404-816-6535. Downtown: SunTrust Plaza Building at 303 Peachtree Center Avenue; 404-577-4366.

VITA will host its regular Bellini Brunch on Sunday, June 15, offering $5 martinis and a $5 Bloody Mary bar as well as $6 mimosas and Bellinis. Open all day Sunday: brunch and lunch menu served from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. and dinner menu served from 4 p.m. to 11 p.m. 2110 Peachtree Road, 404-367-8482.

The local Harry’s Farmers Market locations are holding a couple of creative events to get the little kids (ages two to five) involved with a gift for Father’s Day.
Sign up today for the free Kids Corner event at the Cobb location of Harry’s Farmers Market. On Saturday, June 14 at 11 a.m., Ms. Marcy and the gang will be making Dad a grilling apron for Father’s Day. The aprons and all the decorations are provided for your little ones to make Dad something he is sure to cherish forever. Harry’s Farmers Market in Marietta is located at 70 Powers Ferry Road, SE; 770-578-4400.

And if Daddy has a sweet tooth, the “decorate a cookie cake for Dad” Kids Corner event at the Harry’s Farmers Market in Alpharetta is the place to be. On Saturday, June 14, from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m., Daddy’s little angels can add all the trimmings to a scrumptious 12-inch cookie cake for him on his special day. This program is free, but registration is required. Register by Wednesday, June 11 at the customer service desk at Harry’s Farmers Market in Alpharetta located at 1180 Upper Hembree Road or call 770-664-6300.

On June 15, Wolf Mountain Vineyards & Winery will host its sixth annual Father’s Day barbecue brunch. The cost is $30 per person (excluding wine, tax and gratuity). All Wolf Mountain wines are priced separately and will be available by the glass or bottle. The two seating times are 12:30 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. Advanced reservations are required for all events; please call 706-867-9862 to reserve. 180 Wolf Mountain Trail in Dahlonega.

Time to Get Your Steak On

It is no wonder Father's Day is celebrated in June; June happens to be National Steakhouse Month and everyone knows most dads love steak! These days there are so many steakhouses to choose from, how can we ever know which one to pick?? My advice is to go with a classic.

In Atlanta, there are two top-notch havens for beef-lovers and both have been on the dining scene for years: Morton's The Steakhouse and Fogo de Chão.

Morton's The Steakhouse is known around the globe for its legendary service, upscale elegance and mouthwatering, prime-aged steaks. Awards for food, wine and service are plentiful. Atlanta is fortunate to play home to two of Morton's 79 worldwide locations in Buckhead and Downtown. Right now, Morton's is offering an incredible steak and seafood special menu. The surf and turf menu includes two single-cut filets; a choice of two seafood options (Morton’s jumbo lump crab cake, shrimp Alexander or broiled sea scallops); a choice of one of Morton's signature potatoes and a side vegetable; a choice of two salads (Caesar or Morton’s salad); and lastly, a choice of two desserts (Morton’s legendary hot chocolate cake or key lime pie).

Fogo de Chão, a Brazilian churrascaria, gives steak lovers the opportunity to fork into as much meat as they desire from the 15 fire-roasted cuts of meat carved tableside by Brazilian gauchos. The prix fixe menu simplifies matters, and the humongous salad bar offers plenty of options for those who favor the steak lover, but not steak. The Atlanta restaurant was recently renovated with an updated wine cellar and new art work.

Both locations offer the perfect excuse to celebrate National Steakhouse Month every month!

Restaurants and Stores Stay Open On Memorial Day So You Can Honor More, Cook and Clean Less

Memorial Day marches in each year on the last Monday in May, giving us a chance to pause and honor our servicemen and women, hang out our flags, and unofficially dive into summer with a bevy of outdoor activities. Take in one of Atlanta’s many Memorial Day activities -- reflect on the hundreds of mini-flags posted on soldiers’ graves at the Marietta Cemetery, cheer at Stone Mountain’s Salute to the Troops laser show or chill out to the sounds of the Atlanta Jazz Festival in Woodruff Park. Keep things simple on the food front by choosing to dine out or pick up something deliciously portable at these fun restaurants and stores strategically located around town and definitely open on Memorial Day.

Bonefish Grill –Johns Creek: 11705 C. Jones Bridge Road; 770-475-6668.Buford: 3420 Buford Drive; 678-546-8240.Gwinnett, The Avenue Webb Gin: 1350 Scenic Highway 124; 678-344-8945.

Chipotle -- 12 Atlanta-area locations.

Ecco -- 40 7th Street; 404-347-9555.

Fogo de Chão -- 3101 Piedmont Road; 404-266-9988.

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

Marlow’s Tavern – Kennesaw: 745 Chastain Road, NW; 770-425-8777. Alpharetta: 3719 Old Alabama Road; 770- 475-1800. Vinings: 2355 Cumberland Parkway; 770-432-2526. Midtown: 950 West Peachtree Street; 404-815-0323.

Whole Foods Market – Buckhead: 77 West Paces Ferry Road, NW; 404-324-4100.Briarcliff: 2111 Briarcliff Road; 404-634-7800.Duluth-Johns Creek: 5945 State Bridge Road; 678-514-2400.Sandy Springs: 5930 Roswell Road; 404-236-0810.Ponce: 650 Ponce de Leon Avenue, NE; 404-853-1681.Harry’s Farmers Market in Alpharetta: 1180 Upper Hembree Road; 770-664-6300.Harry’s Farmers Market in Marietta: 70 Powers Ferry Road, SE; 770-578-4400.

Tasting the Great Wines of Argentina

Yesterday, I was fortunate enough to attend an exclusive wine tasting event at Fogo de Chao that featured 14 top Argentinean boutique wineries from six different regions. The restaurant, along with QW Wine Experts, is working with the government of Argentina to bring in wines that are not yet available in the United States and hosted this tasting for 20 local wine distributors who were able to enjoy the magnificent display of wines and Fogo’s lovely food spread throughout the day.

Last year, Argentina became the sixth largest wine producer in the world. These 14 wineries represent the new wave of the wine industry in Argentina and, aside from a few exceptions, have never exported to the U.S. Naturally, the response from everyone in attendance was highly enthusiastic! One of my favorites from the tasting was Bodegas San Huberto's “Nina” Cabernet Malbec blend (2004) from La Rioja – full bodied with hints of cherry, it would make a great match for Fogo’s grilled meats!

We also got to speak with Juliana Arive Oroz (pictured in the photo on the right) of Vulliez-Sermet, whose award-winning Malbec I enjoyed very much as well. This is the only winery from Argentina's East Coast wine region, Entre Rios, so I was very excited to try their offerings!

“Let’s Eat Out” is Second Only To “I Love You” on Mother’s Day, May 11

The first meal I remember making for my mom was Mother's Day breakfast in bed when I was four years old. My older brother and I thought it would be great to make her a "balanced breakfast" like they showed on the cereal commercials. First, we made her a bowl of cereal, then, we made her two slices of toast and finally, poured her a glass of orange juice. To make the tray look pretty, I ran to the garden and picked her a flower.

Needless to say that by the time we got the breakfast to her, the cereal was soggy, the toast was cold (and messy) and I got thirsty so a drank a sip of her juice. She said she loved it!

Fortunately, I am wise enough now to know that there are better options for mom's special day. This Mother’s Day, Sunday, May 11, I can't wait to say those three magic words – “Let’s eat out!”

Chefs at these restaurants have been preparing for Mother’s Day with buffets and menus that will have her saying “I love you!”

Two hot spots are already sold out so make a note to check these out early next year: Canoe's riverside brunch and Wolf Mountain Vineyards & Winery's mountain setting brunch.

Aqua Blue heaps mom’s favorites on the brunch buffet. From 10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., grab a plate and fill it with items such as strip steak and carved turkey, chicken rotini primavera in cream sauce, eggs Benedict and breakfast pastries. $29.95/adults, $9.95/children ages four to 12 and free for children under four. Regular dinner menu takes over from 5 to 9 p.m. 1564 Holcomb Bridge Road in Roswell; 770-643-8886.

Bonefish Grill brings out the grilled fish and delectable sauces that grace the regular menu from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Buford: 3420 Buford Drive; 678-546-8240. Johns Creek: 11705 C Jones Bridge Road; 770-475-6668. Macon: 5080 Riverside Drive, Building 500, Suite 506; 478-477-5256. Snellville: 1350 Scenic Highway 124 in The Avenue Webb Gin; 678-344-8945.

Ecco whisks Mom to a European bistro brunch with a special menu from 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. Open for dinner from 5 to 9 p.m. 40 7th Street at Cypress in Midtown; 404-347-9555.

Fogo de Chão salutes moms with savory slow-roasted meats from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Mother’s Day; $38.50 per person. The Brazilian churrascaria will be serving dinner that night from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m.; $46.50 per person. 3101 Piedmont Road; 404-266-9988.

Food Studio® paints a masterpiece of food and art to celebrate Mom’s day. Special brunch buffet from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.; $39.95 per person. Children’s menu for $10 per child (12 and under). Open for dinner from 5:30 to 9 p.m. 887 West Marietta Street in the King Plow Arts Center; 404-815-6677.

The GLOBE provides the ideal spot for Yellow Jacket and Midtown moms to celebrate the day from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Regular brunch menu. 75 Fifth Street, NW in Technology Square; 404-541-1487.

La Tavola Trattoria jets Mom to Italy in nearby Virginia-Highlands. Order from the brunch menu from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. or the regular dinner menu from 5:30 to 10 p.m. 992 Virginia Avenue, NE; 404-873-5430.

Marlow’s Tavern (Alpharetta, Kennesaw, Midtown and Vinings) pours it on for the American casual mom with the regular brunch menu from 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. and the regular dinner menu from 3 p.m. to 12 a.m. Alpharetta: 3719 Old Alabama Road, 770-475-1800. Kennesaw: 745 Chastain Road, NW, 770-425-8777. Midtown: 950 West Peachtree Street, 404-815-0323. Vinings: 2355 Cumberland Parkway, 770-432-2526.

Morton’s The Steakhouse in Buckhead and Downtown serves a mom-worthy prix fixe menu on Mother’s Day for $59 per person. Choose a salad; one entrée from a selection of filets, fish and chicken dishes; one side dish; and a dessert. Open from 3 to 9 p.m. in Buckhead in the Peachtree Lenox Building at 3379 Peachtree Road, NE; 404-816-6535. Open from 4 to 9 p.m. Downtown in the SunTrust Plaza Building at 303 Peachtree Center Avenue; 404-577-4366.

South City Kitchen® whips up contemporary Southern dishes that give mom the day off from cooking but not from good eating. Enjoy brunch at the Midtown location from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. or the regular dinner menu from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. 1144 Crescent Avenue; 404-873-7358. Brunch will be served at the Vinings location from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.; order from the regular dinner menu from 3 p.m. to 10 p.m. 1675 Cumberland Parkway; 770-435-0700.

Trilogy is East Cobb-close for an all-you-can-eat buffet brunch from 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Mother’s Day. $23.95/adults; $8.95/children. Seating is limited and reservations are required. The restaurant will not be open for dinner. 4930 Davidson Road; 770-971-4770.

VITA will serve the regular dinner menu from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. and will have flowers for moms. Mama mia, now that’s Italian! 2110 Peachtree Road; 404-367-8482.

Woodfire Grill serves mom local ingredients prepared with Northern Californian style from the regular menu. Open from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. on Mother’s Day. 1782 Cheshire Bridge Road; 404-347-9055.

During Tax Week and Beyond, Restaurants Help You Count Pennies After the Bean Counter Counts Your Dough

Hopefully, you’ve already e-filed or mailed in your tax forms (deadline is midnight tonight!). Windfall refund blowing your way? Celebrate! If your dirge is “I owe, I owe, so off to work I go,” take heart with these bar and dining strategies that stretch your post-tax dollars.

Fogo de Chão carves the same 15 cuts of savory meats at lunch for nearly half the price of the evening meal! All-you-can-eat lunch costs $29.50 versus $46.50 for dinner. The big-as-Brazil salad bar has plenty of greens and more! 3101 Piedmont Road; 404-266-9988.

The GLOBE plays a tempting four-on-four deal during Wine Down Wednesdays so you can spend a night out without spending a fortune. Four appetizer “bites” and four wine tastings cost a mere $15 from 6 – 8 p.m. 75 Fifth Street, NW in Midtown; 404-541-1487.

Marlow's Tavern passes savings on to the gals at Wednesdays’ “Girls’ Night Out” events. During April, Marlow’s showers the gals with light and luscious food and drink specials. $5 “Ladies Choice” appetizers wow, whether it’s the tequila-lime shrimp martini, lime-marinated chicken satay with fresh guac or a tomato and basil bruschetta. A glass full of excitement is just $5 as well! Try the signature “Tropical Elixir” and “Orange Marmalade.” Adding an element of surprise, each Marlow’s location will feature its own special cocktail of choice on Wednesdays – and even we don’t know what it will be where! April deals continue as each Marlow’s location lines up a $5 white wine flight and a $5 red wine flight for the gals! At all Marlow’s Tavern locations: Alpharetta - 3719 Old Alabama Road, 770-475-1800; Kennesaw - 745 Chastain Road, NW, 770-425-8777; Midtown - 950 West Peachtree Street, 404-815-0323; Vinings - 2355 Cumberland Parkway, 770-432-2526.

Morton’s The Steakhouse “Power Hour” in Buckhead and Downtown provides timely ways to save dough, offering a half-priced Bar Bites menu ($4/plate) from 5 to 6:30 p.m. and from 9 to 11 p.m. Monday through Friday. Technically, Power Hour runs longer than an hour, but that’s in your favor so who’s watching the clock! Start salivating over $4 selections such as the mini cheeseburger trio with more than half a pound of USDA prime beef with cheddar cheese, tomato slices, iceberg lettuce and onion, served on silver dollar rolls; four petite filet mignon sandwiches served on seeded ciabatta dinner rolls; crispy fried chicken goujonettes; and crab, spinach and artichoke dip with toasted bread croutons. Oysters on the half shell are just $1.50 each, and colossal shrimp are $2.50 a piece. Buckhead: Peachtree Lenox Building at 3379 Peachtree Road, NE; 404-816-6535. Downtown in the SunTrust Plaza Building at 303 Peachtree Center Avenue; 404-577-4366.

Trilogy spreads the wealth of savings throughout the week! Every Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday Trilogy pours half-price martinis and wine-by-the-glass, and Coors Light beer is $2.Monday fills the bill with bottomless pasta bowls for $8.95. Top linguini, orchetti or penne pasta with your choice of marinara, meat sauce, Alfredo or tomato basil sauce; Trilogy rounds out the meal with tossed salad and warm crusty bread.Tuesdays are Shrimp Steamer Nights. Plunk down $10.95 and dig into a full pound of steamed shrimp with warm garlic butter, red skin potatoes and corn on the cob.Wednesday’s all-you-care-to-eat helpings of Mama Martin's Meatloaf are a Southern-style comfort that’s decked out with green beans, mashed potatoes and pan gravy for $9.95. 4930 Davidson Road off Johnson Ferry behind the Parkaire shopping center in East Cobb; 770-971-4770.

Wolf Mountain Vineyards & Winery provides a wine-country thrill without airport hassles, fuel surcharges or taxing time-zone changes. Wine tastings are $10 per person, including a souvenir glass, on Monday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday from noon until 5 p.m., and on Sunday from 12:30 to 5 p.m. Call 706-867-9862 for reservations then head north to Dahlonega, Georgia. 180 Wolf Mountain Trail.

Woodfire Grill keeps your budget in mind with Executive Chef/Owner Michael Tuohy’s expanded small plates menu. Many of Woodfire Grill's previous entrée options have been made into smaller portions so diners can share and enjoy numerous flavors and textures. Recent examples (the menu changes daily) include wood-grilled Sonoma artisan duck breast with Anson Mills polenta and truffle sauce; handmade tagliatelle with Georgia white shrimp, guanciale, chiles, garlic and San Marzano tomato sauce; and carnaroli risotto with porcini mushrooms, butter and Parmigiano-Reggiano. So if you don’t want to blow your dining budget on a big meal, take Woodfire Grill’s small plates menu for a spin. 1782 Cheshire Bridge Road; 404-347-9055.

Who's the Best?

Atlanta magazine's Best of Atlanta party was last night at the Cobb Galleria Centre, and, in terms of restaurants, it really was the best of Atlanta! All the hot spots were there, including Ecco, Fogo de Chao, the GLOBE and Watershed. Yum!

The Cobb Galleria isn't my first choice for an event like this; as my favorite GLOBE bartender said, "it has no soul." BUT, that certainly didn't keep the crowds away; by 8:30 p.m. most of the top restaurants were already out of food?!

Some of the standout dishes from the evening included GLOBE's Campari sorbet with homemade lemon sugar cookies, Via Elisa's sweet potato gnocchi, and Watershed's custard with blood orange sauce. I'm sure I would have loved Ecco's dish too, but it must have been everyone's favorite since they were totally out by the time I got there. Fogo served mini-bites of bacon-wrapped filet, lingucia sausage and beef ancho. The linguica sausage has always been my preferred cut of meat at Fogo, and it was just the right mix of salty and spicy to temper all the sweet treats of the evening.

Overall, it was a tasty evening out!

Atlanta Restaurants Are Feeding Hungry Hearts

LET'S HAVE A HEART-TO-HEART ABOUT VALENTINE'S DAY
Here's some Valentine's advice straight from our hearts...go for a bite of give and a dash of take. If he treated you to the ultra-romantic night out last year, turn the tables and take him out for a meaty masterpiece. Last year, he brought Valentine's chocolate to your doorstep, this year show up with heart-shaped doughnuts. Went formal? Go comedy or country! If absence is making the heart grow fonder, send tokens of affection - we've listed some suggestions below!

KRISPY KREME HEART-SHAPED DOUGHNUTS ARE LOVE AT FIRST BITE
Why leave 'em guessing? Krispy Kreme heart-shaped doughnuts are sweet through and through! Unlike a box of chocolates, one always knows what to expect with Krispy Kreme doughnuts. The outsides are dazzling in white icing with pink, red and white sprinkles. Your beau will be heartbroken if you don't buy some of these luscious lovelies by February 14 . . . after that they're gone until next February!

Buy two-dozen doughnuts of any kind before February 14 and you'll receive 12 Share the Love Valentine's Day cards, each good for a free doughnut. Oh, and if you're sweet on lots of valentines, place your large order 48 hours in advance. Available at all Atlanta Krispy Kreme stores:

Atlanta - 295 Ponce de Leon Avenue, 404-876- 7307
Buford - 3387 Buford Drive, 770-831-1174
Duluth - 1550 Pleasant Hill Road, 770-717-5134
Lilburn - 4129 Highway 78, 770-985-2810
Marietta - 299 Cobb Parkway, South, 770-425- 0374
Riverdale - 6689 Highway 85, 770-997-6210
Roswell - 791 Atlanta Street, 770-998-0779

THERE'S SOMETHING TO BE SAID FOR HEART-FELT SPONTANEITY - THEY'RE SAYING IT WITH HUMOR AT WHOLE WORLD THEATRE'S VALENTINE'S DAY IMPROV SPECIAL
Blackberry schedules and IM buzzes are so unromantic. Turn them off and turn on your date with the spontaneity of dinner, laughs and prizes at Whole World Theatre's Valentine's Day improv comedy special. The evening's in the hands of a fun-loving twosome: Front Page News-Midtown serves dinner at 7 p.m., and Whole World Theatre brings on the laughs at 9 p.m. In between, head for the dessert bar, complete with Krispy Kreme's heart-shaped doughnuts! Per couple: show only, $75; show and dinner (including a bottle of wine), $120. For reservations, call 404-817-PLAY. 1216 Spring Street in Midtown.

WAYS TO EAT TO YOUR HEART'S DESIRE WITH THESE ATLANTA RESTAURANT SPECIALS AND GOURMET GIFT IDEAS
A dinner of authentic central Italian fare from Allegro's special "Amore Mio" menu will steal any lover's heart. The four-course Valentine's Day prix fixe menu is $100 per couple (tax, gratuity and wine excluded). Choose one dish for each course on the Valentine's menu:

First Course
Pane Sardo -- toasted Sardinian flat bread with king crab, slow-cooked tomatoes, celery micro greens with lemon juice and extra virgin olive oil
Carpaccio di Salmone -- smoked salmon carpaccio with blood oranges, cumin-flavored carrots, Pantelleria caper berries, basil micro greens

Second Course
Risotto al Balsamico -- butter and Parmigiano risotto topped with 12-year-old balsamic- marinated fresh strawberries
Cappellacci Cupido -- butternut squash cappellacci with cranberry compote and amaretti cookie crumbles

Third Course
Filetto Valentino -- grilled filet mignon with Brussels sprout au gratin flavored with horseradish and finished with black beef glaze
Branzino Casanova -- pan-seared Chilean sea bass served with crispy polenta topped with roasted tomato, capers and olive relish

Fourth Course
Dolcezza -- white chocolate and strawberry parfait
Tortino alla Nutella e Vaniglia -- chocolate and Nutella lava cake with vanilla gelato

Dinner will be served from 5:30 to 10:30 p.m. 560 Dutch Valley Road in the Belvedere condominium building; 404-888-1890. Buon appetito! www.allegroatlanta.com

Aqua Blue woos with courses featuring lobster, crab and chocolate on its Valentine's dinner menu: Charleston she crab bisque; Maine lobster and spinach salad; thyme roast tenderloin with lobster, jumbo lump crab Napoleon, winter vegetable fricassee and lobster knuckle sauce; and Aqua Blue Chocolate "Bomb" of dark and semi-sweet chocolate mousse with raspberry. $65 per person, $130 a couple, including two glasses of champagne. 1564 Holcomb Bridge Road, Roswell; 770-643-8886.

Aria, known as one of Atlanta's most romantic dining destinations, serves a four-course prix fixe Valentine's Day menu that sings of romance. $90 per person (tax, gratuity and beverages not included). Serving dinner from 6 to 10 p.m. 490 East Paces Ferry Road; 404-233-7673. http://www.aria-atl.com/

Chipotle wraps up that extra something...a receipt worth a free burrito on February 13 or 14 for any guest who purchases a gift card for their valentine this month before February 12 (minimum $10). One free burrito per gift card purchased. Chipotle has 12 Atlanta-area locations.

Sweetheart, forget the frou-frou, "meat" your man for the Valentine's meal of his dreams at Fogo de Chão, a true Brazilian churrascaria. Give your gaucho the green light on table-side carving of 15 savory cuts of meat -- as much as your man wants. Voracious for veggies? Tour the sumptuous salad bar laden with vegetables, salads, fruits, cheeses, meats and more. Lunch (served from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.) is $29.50 per person; dinner (served from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m.) is $46.50 per person. 3101 Piedmont Road;404-266-9988. http://www.fogodechao.com/

Food Studio, near the heart of the city, offers a Valentine's Day four-course prix fixe menu for $65 per person. Choose one item for each course from the special menu:

Amuse Bouche

First Course
Hammock Hallow field greens, fingerling potatoes, white asparagus with mustard vinaigretteSeared Maine diver scallops, parsnip- black truffle risotto
Grilled Carolina quail with caramelized onion tart and spiced fig compote
Butter-poached shrimp with cauliflower puree, grilled porcini mushrooms

Second Course
Grilled beef tenderloin, horseradish potatoes, Swiss chard, red wine reduction
Braised lamb shank, polenta, creamed escarole, braise reduction
Alaskan halibut, ricotta gnocchi, Brussels sprouts, hedgehog mushrooms
Spice-rubbed pork tenderloin with root vegetable hash, Tuscan kale, sherry jus

Third Course
Warm walnut tart with poached pears and rosemary sabayon
Valrhona chocolate-covered cherry bombe with sour cherry reduction.

Dinner hours are 5:30 to 10 p.m. 887 W. Marietta Street in the King Plow Arts Center; 404-815-6677. http://www.fifthgroup.com/

Marlow's Tavern in Alpharetta, Kennesaw, Midtown and Vinings are all offering different, special three-course dinner menus on Valentine's Day (regular menu also will be available). A Sexy Singles Party at the Vinings location begins at 9 p.m. on Valentine's night and will feature drink specials in the bar area. Check individual locations for menu items and pricing information. In Alpharetta at 3719 Old Alabama Road, 770-475-1800; Kennesaw at 745 Chastain Road, NW, 770-425-8777; Midtown at 950 West Peachtree Street, 404-815-0323; and Vinings at 2355 Cumberland Parkway, 770-432-2526. http://www.marlowstavern.com/

Morton's Steakhouse in Buckhead marries its signature steak and seafood together in one of the best Valentine's Day four-course menu deals around. For just $99 for two, each person enjoys a single-cut filet; choice of seafood options including Morton's jumbo lump crab cake, Shrimp Alexander or broiled sea scallops wrapped in bacon with apricot chutney; choice of Caesar or Morton's salad; and a choice of Morton's legendary hot chocolate cake or Key lime pie for dessert. Buckhead location ONLY, located in the Peachtree Lenox Building at 3379 Peachtree Road, NE; 404-816-6535. http://www.mortons.com/

Trilogy will have East Cobb swooning in the main dining room with a rose for each lady and menu specials. Entertainment room guests will be enamored with the Kenny Chesney and Shania Twain cover band and look-a-likes at 8 p.m. The entertainment room has a $20 cover charge per person. 4930 Davidson Road behind the Parkaire shopping center in East Cobb; 770-971-4770. http://www.trilogydining.net/

Wolf Mountain Vineyard and Winery is hosting the second of their Valentine Gourmet Dinners with wine pairings on Saturday, February 16 at 7 p.m. Cost is $80 per person, all inclusive. Dinner begins with a cellar reception featuring mini-smoked duck ravioli with ginger hoisin dipping sauce accompanied by 2006 Chanteloup. Dinner menu and pairings include:

• Stuffed jumbo shrimp with crab meat in a bed of baby mixed greens, walnuts, shaved Asiago and tossed in a roasted shallot vinaigrette; 2006 Chanteloup


• Sorbet


• Fried lobster tail and Chateaubriand duo drizzled in a rosemary demi glace with potato croquets and asparagus; 2006 Coupage


• Cheese course brings a sampling of artisan cheeses; 2005 Instinct


• Flourless chocolate cake with raspberry sauce garnished with fresh berries, served with gourmet Brazilian coffee roasted for Wolf Mountain Vineyards; 2005 Claret or 2006 Seyval Demi-Sec

For reservations, call 706-867-9862. 180 Wolf Mountain Trail in Dahlonega. http://www.wolfmountainvineyards.com/

If your Valentine loves you, and all things of food and vine, we've found some gifts to tickle their fancy:

tsp spices will spice up your relationship by delivering organic spices in perfectly-measured, freshly sealed, single-use packages. Spice gals and guys can now kiss kitchen chaos goodbye and embrace more flavorful foods at home! To learn more or to buy, visit http://www.tspspices.com/ -- and be sure to stop over at The Seasoned Palate Weblog for spicy revelations.

Even if you're not popping the question you can pop the cork on fabulous wines from Niner Wine Estates. Find your favorite on the list of high- quality varietals created from estate-grown fruit: Sauvignon Blanc, Barbera Rosato, Barbera, Sangiovese, Syrah, Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon. Available at several of Atlanta's top restaurants, Niner Wines are also available at Hinton's Wine Store located at 8455 Holcomb Bridge Road in Alpharetta; 770-641-1900.

Those passionate about their grills will cherish love tokens of Grill Wipes, Stainless Steel Wipes and the Steaming Grill Brush from Grate Chef®. Less time cleaning the grill means more time for thrills! Products are sold online at www.barbecue-store.com and in nationwide grocery stores, hardware stores and specialty stores. Grill 'em for more info at 877- 900-8415 or http://www.gratechef.com/.

CUPID SHOPS AT WHOLE FOODS MARKET!
The love-struck cherub knows less time spent driving, stopping and shopping means more time for romance! Whole Foods Market and Harry's Farmers Market have it all, from flowers to food. The rest is up to you!

Run for the roses as Whole Foods Market and Harry's Farmers Market locations in Georgia rise up with their annual Valentine's Day rose special: Two dozen roses for $19.99 through February 14! There's no excuse not to push the petals her way -- you can't miss the big outdoor wrapping tables.

Wake up to a romantic breakfast in bed for $24.99. Hit snooze and steal time for a boxed bounty for two, including mini quiches, fresh-baked muffins, healthy melon and OJ.

The Bundle of Love, $89.99, snuggles all of those Valentine's classics together for one quick pick up: Two-dozen roses OR 20 tulip stems arranged in a vase with baby's breath and greenery; Nicolas Feuillatte champagne; and Moonstruck all-natural chocolate truffles.

Seven locations are waiting to embrace you and your Valentine's Day needs:
Buckhead: 77 West Paces Ferry Road, NW; 404-324-4100
Briarcliff: 2111 Briarcliff Road; 404-634-7800
Duluth-Johns Creek: 5945 State Bridge Road; 678- 514-2400
Sandy Springs: 5930 Roswell Road; 404-236- 0810
Ponce: 650 Ponce de Leon Avenue, NE; 404-853- 1681
Harry's Farmers Market in Alpharetta: 1180 Upper Hembree Road; 770-664-6300
Harry's Farmers Market in Marietta: 70 Powers Ferry Road, SE; 770-578-4400

ATLANTA FINE WINE FESTIVAL ON FEBRUARY 16 BENEFITS VISITING NURSE - HOSPICE ATLANTA
The 4th Annual Atlanta Fine Wine Festival on Saturday, February 16, ends Valentine's week on a compassionate note. As guests enjoy food from top restaurants, like Canoe, and sample and bid on fine wines such as Niner Wine Estates, they'll be helping raise funds for a loving cause, Visiting Nurse - Hospice Atlanta. This year's event takes place from 2 - 6 p.m. on Saturday, February 16 at Mason Murer Fine Art, located at 199 Armour Drive in Atlanta; 404-879-1500. Learn more about the event's charity, auction, sponsors, participating wines and restaurants, and ticketing information at http://www.atlantafinewinefestival.com/. Info number:404-520-3113.

TRILOGY HOSTS CHRISTIAN ROCK BAND SOULSTICE
Trilogy continues to wow the neighborhood with a diverse range of entertainment! Bring the family to hear rock with a mission as Christian band Soulstice takes to the stage with fast- paced praise music on Sunday, February 17. This is not your grandpa's music. $15 cover charge per person includes a pre-show hamburger/hot dog buffet at 5 p.m. followed by the band's performance at 6:30 p.m. 4930 Davidson Road behind the Parkaire shopping center in East Cobb; 770-971-4770. www.trilogydining.net. Sneak preview the band at www.soulsticeband.net.

GOT 4 MINUTES? VAJRA STRATIGOS HAS A VALENTINE'S VIDEO WINE "TASTING" FOR YOU!
His descriptions are so vivid you can almost taste them! Vajra Stratigos, beverage director for Fifth Group Restaurants® turns to YouTube to get the word out on the perfect wines for Valentine's. Garner his insight on bubbly through white, red and dessert wine suggestions. Click here to view . . . and the list:

Aubry, Brut Rosé, Premier Cru
Chateau Ste. Michelle, "Eroica," Riesling 2006
C. Joguet, "Les Varennes du Grand Clos," Chinon 2004
Turley Wine Cellars, "Duarte," Zinfandel Contra Costa County, CA 2005
Alvear, "Solera 1927," Pedro Ximénez Spain

Fifth Group Restaurants owns and operates Ecco, Food Studio®, La Tavola Trattoria, South City Kitchen® Midtown and Vinings and Bold American Catering®. For more information about Fifth Group Restaurants, visit www.fifthgroup.com. For more wine suggestions from Vajra, check out his blog, Vajra Straight Up.

ANNUAL SHARE OUR STRENGTH GREAT AMERICAN BAKING CONTEST AND BAKE SALE!
. . . Or cookies, cakes, breads and secret recipes. Separate amateur and professional baker categories mean all that enter have a chance at winning bread while raising dough during Share Our Strength's Great American Baking Contest on Thursday, February 21 at The Cook's Warehouse in Midtown. The 7 - 9 p.m. bake-off kicks off the organization's Great American Bake Sale in Atlanta to help alleviate childhood hunger in America. Contest entry fees are $25/amateurs and $95/professionals. Atlanta Journal- Constitution Food Writer John Kessler will judge the pros, and a panel of pastry chefs will slice into the amateur chefs' creations. Samplings of desserts and wines are included in the event admission fee of $25 per person. Obtain contest specifics at www.strength.org/bakingcontest,or call Amy Crowell at 770-436-5151.

The Cook's Warehouse in Midtown is located at 549-I Amsterdam Avenue; 404-815-4993. http://www.cookswarehouse.com/

Share Our Strength's Great American Bake Sale®, presented by Domino® Sugar and C&H®, is a national campaign that mobilizes Americans to end childhood hunger by holding bake sales in their communities. www.greatamericanbakesale.org

GUESTS ARE GREETED WTH NEW MENU FORMAT AT WOODFIRE GRILL: OWNER/CHEF MICHAEL TUOHY MEANS BIG BUSINESS WHEN IT COMES TO SMALL PLATES
While Owner/Chef Michael Tuohy, a San Francisco transplant who has been at the forefront of the Atlanta dining scene for more than 20 years, has always been ahead of his time by offering a variety of small plates at his restaurant since opening in 2002 - Bon Appetit magazine even named Woodfire Grill as the spot for "Best Small Plates" in 2004. But now, he has further expanded this section of the Woodfire Grill menu to reflect the way Atlantans are eating today. Defined by the end of the entrée and the launch of a lifestyle of grazing among numerous flavors and textures, the focal point of Tuohy's menu is the enormous selection of little bites that give the diner complete control over his or her meal. Many of Woodfire Grill's previous entrée options have been made into smaller portions.

"I believe this change reflects the way guests want to eat when dining out," says Tuohy. "There is a convergence of diners young and mature that want to experience and share lots of flavors and tastes; it's a more communal approach. Diners want to move on from a dish after three to four bites, so an entree can be too much of a commitment," he adds.

Additionally, The Café at Woodfire's menu features artisan cured meats, artisan cheese selections with a wide variety of accompaniments and pizzettas to suit the mood of patrons. Several of these items are also available for purchase in The Café to take home. For those guests who are willing to put their meal choices into the capable hands of Chef Tuohy, a four-course vegetable tasting menu and a chef's tasting menu are featured on the backside of the regular menu to showcase the day's freshest locally grown organic produce and other seasonal offerings that are central to the restaurant's philosophy of ingredient-focused fair with a Northern California flair. Woodfire Grill is open for dinner Tuesday through Sunday and is located at 1782 Cheshire Bride Road; 404-347-9055; http://www.woodfiregrill.com/.


SECOND HELPINGS: SOCIAL DIVA DIVIES UP SCOOP ON ATLANTA
Social butterflies and event divas will see Atlanta's restaurant, happenings and retail scene bloom on Socialdiva.com. Part newsletter, part blog, there's plenty of eye-candy and meaty information to make clicking on this link worth your while!