Himitsu Mixologist Ivan Goatia to Shake Up Highball Competition at High Museum Feb. 10

Ivan Goatia of Himitsu, the “reservation-only” Japanese cocktail lounge in the heart of Buckhead, swirls two island cultures near to his heart into a cocktail, and not just any cocktail -- Michi No Daichi (Unknown Earth). The skilled mixologist is flexing his wrists and forearms to stir things up at Highball, which will spill across the High Museum of Artlobby from 6:30-10 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 10. Goatia’s Puerto Rican heritage and a passion for the Japanese culture steering the artistry and precision behind Himitsu’s bar program influence the East-meets-West flavor profile of his Frida Kahlo tequila-infused nectar. Sixteen of Atlanta’s top mixologists and more than 500 cocktail connoisseurs will swizzle and sip at Highball, the High Museum’s second mixology competition benefitting the museum. To dabble in drinks and to try Goatia’s stunner, buy a ticket to Highball online for $125 per person.

Accomplish First 2018 Goal: Make New Year’s Plans

Don’t let the ball drop on solidifying New Year’s Eve dining out and celebration plans. Atlanta’s best restaurants and nightspots make it easy to arrange a night and day worth remembering with New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day events and food and drink specials worth popping open the Champagne. Spaces are limited, reserve your spot today.

The following restaurants are open for both New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day, celebrating with special menus, events and bountiful brunch options:

5Church Atlanta has a three-course New Year’s Eve dinner with a half bottle of Champagne for a party of two and a full bottle of Champagne for a party of four. Seatings are from 5 to 5:45 p.m. ($75), 6 to 6:45 p.m. ($80) and 7 to 7:45 p.m. ($90). Reservations after 8 p.m. are $120 per person. At 10 p.m., the restaurant hosts a New Year’s Eve party featuring a buffet menu, open bar, live DJ, live countdown to the ball drop and Champagne toast at midnight. General admission tickets are $80 and can be purchased here. Admission to the party is also available to New Year’s Eve diners with a $50 upgrade. On New Year’s Day, 5Church serves its regular brunch menu from 11 a.m.to 4 p.m. and dinner starting at 5:30 p.m. 404-400-3669; 5churchatlanta.com.

Atkins Park Restaurant & Bar in Virginia-Highland is serving up a special New Year’s Eve dinner and countdown party on Dec. 31. On Jan. 1, enjoy the full brunch menu along with Atkins Park’s traditional Southern New Year’s Day offering of braised pork, hoppin’ John rice, collard greens and cornbread. 404-876-7249; atkinspark.com.

Chicken and the Egg is serving a New Year’s Eve menu starting at 5 p.m. on Dec. 31. The restaurant is also open for brunch on Jan. 1 from 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. 678-388-8813; chickandtheegg.com.

Food 101 in Sandy Springs is open for brunch from 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. on New Year’s Eve, with an à la carte Sunday supper-style dinner from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. Choose from entrées such as smoked prime rib and butter poached lobster tails alongside family-style sides like truffle and crab creamed corn and Champagne-braised Brussels sprouts. Food 101 is also serving its regular brunch menu on New Year’s Day from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. 404-497-9700; food101atl.com.

The original Midtown location of HOBNOB Neighborhood Tavern switches from its regular menu to an all-you-can-eat pizza party at 9 p.m. on New Year’s Eve. The event also offers endless beer and Champagne, live music from James Patrick Morgan, a balloon drop and party favors. Tickets are available here. 404-968-2288. HOBNOB’s Brookhaven outpost is offering a steak and lobster dinner special in addition to its regular menu, as well as special Champagne and bourbon flights. 404-464-8971. Both locations are open for brunch on New Year’s Day starting at 10:30 a.m.

hobnobatlanta.com.

Special prix fixe menus are on tap at Marlow’s Tavern on Dec. 31, then select locations are serving a New Year’s Day brunch to welcome in the New Year. Locations serving brunch include Alpharetta, Brookhaven, Dunwoody, East Cobb, Midtown, Sandy Springs and Vinings. All Marlow’s Tavern locations are open on Jan. 1 with regular hours. Call the neighborhood taverns for additional details. marlowstavern.com.

Ray’s Restaurants (Ray’s on the River, Ray's at Killer Creek and Ray's in the City) are each offering a three-course, prix fixe New Year’s Eve dinner menu for $85 from 4 to 11 p.m. at Ray’s in the City and 5 to 11 p.m. at Ray’s on the River and Ray’s at Killer Creek. À la carte dinner menus are also available at Ray’s on the River and Ray’s at Killer Creek. During the day on Dec. 31, Ray’s in the City is also serving its regular lunch menu from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., while Ray’s on the River and Ray’s at Killer Creek are offering New Year’s Eve brunch buffets from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. ($45.95 per adult and $22.95 per child at Ray’s on the River; $42.95 per adult and $21.95 per child at Ray’s at Killer Creek.) All three restaurants are open regular hours for lunch and dinner on Jan. 1. raysrestaurants.com.

In addition, ring in 2018 in grand style with a New Year’s Eve Great Gatsby Gala at Ray’s on the River. Wear “Great Gatsby” attire at this extravaganza featuring an open bar, heavy hors d’oeuvres, a live five-piece band, a Champagne toast and a midnight balloon drop. The party runs from 9:30 p.m. to 1 a.m. Price is $150 per person, plus tax and gratuity. Reservations are required, and tickets are available here. 770-955-1187; raysrestaurants.com/raysontheriver.

The following restaurants are hosting New Year’s Eve festivities only; closed on Jan. 1st:

Guests who enjoy American Cut’s regular dinner menu on Dec. 31 are invited to upgrade to an after-dinner New Year’s Eve party downstairs at The Cut Bar from 9 p.m. to midnight for $40 per person. The post-dinner party features an open bar, live entertainment, live ball drop and Champagne toast at midnight. 770-415-9766; americancutsteakhouse.com/nye2018atl. Meanwhile, The Regent Cocktail Club, American Cut’s rooftop bar, is hosting an exclusive New Year’s event from 8 p.m. to 2 a.m. with passed hors d’oeuvres, live entertainment, live ball drop and Champagne toast at midnight. Tickets are $80 in advance and $100 at the door. Availability is limited, so reserve today. 770-415-9961; regentcocktailclub.com.

Chef Gerry Klaskala and the team at Aria, which is typically closed on Sunday nights, are offering a four-course prix fixe New Year’s Eve menu for $95 per person. Drinks, tax and gratuity not included. Reserve a table here. 404-233-7673; aria-atl.com.

The Blind Pig Parlour Bar offers an intimate and sophisticated alternative to massive New Year’s Eve parties. The 1920s-inspired speakeasy hosts a private black-tie event with open bar, party favors, hors d’oeuvres, desserts, live music by Fukushima Tuna and a Champagne toast at midnight. Tickets are $95 per person and are available here. 678-705-7697; theblindpigparlourbar.com.

Bulla Gastrobar is an appropriately festive spot for ushering in the New Year, with its laid-back, communal atmosphere and first-class menu of innovative tapas and Spanish dishes.  The restaurant is staying open until midnight and is offering a complimentary Champagne toast, as well as hats and noisemakers for the last seating of the evening. 404-900-6926; bullagastrobar.com.

Celebrate on Dec. 31 at Drift Fish House & Oyster Bar and Seed Kitchen & Bar with three-course prix fixe dinners for $75, plus tax and gratuity. Menu selections include roasted guinea hen and braised veal osso buco at Seed and Atlantic grouper or deviled crab cakes at Drift. Optional wine pairings are $25. 770-635-7641; driftoysterbar.com. 678-214-6888; eatatseed.com.

Gypsy Kitchen is serving a special five-course prix fixe menu beginning at 5 p.m. Selections include a family-style serving of chicken croquetas and patatas bravas, as well as za’atar-spiced scallops, poached halibut, duck breast and seafood paella fried rice. Guests can opt for a wine pairing with each course for an additional $45. There will also be live music, a balloon drop and a Champagne toast at midnight. Cost is $65 per person from 5 to 8:30 p.m.; $75 from 8:45 to 10:30 p.m. 404-939-9840; gk-atl.com.

Ring in the New Year at Johnny’s Hideaway for a one-of-a-kind celebration for $50 per person. The price includes reserved seats and party favors at midnight. Reserve by phone. 404-233-8026; johnnyshideaway.com.

In historic Crabapple, Milton’s Cuisine and Cocktails is celebrating with live music and a three-course menu for $65 from 5 – 9 p.m. Selections include baked oysters casino, potato chips & caviar, bacon wrapped wagyu sirloin and roasted duck breast. 770-817-0161; miltonscuisine.com.

The Southern Gentleman is offering a five-course prix fixe menu featuring such dishes as seafood bisque with lobster beignet; fried oyster with balsamic collard greens; center-cut bone-in grilled pork chop, 8 oz. filet, gunpowder red snapper and roasted spaghetti squash. Guests will also enjoy party favors, a DJ, a balloon drop and Champagne toast. Reservations are $80 for seatings from 5 to 8:15 p.m.; $90 for 8:30 to 10 p.m. Unique wine pairings with each course are available for an additional $45. 404-939-9845; thesoutherngentlemanatl.com.

The following restaurants are also open and welcoming guests on New Year’s Eve:

Both locations of The Big Ketch are offering their regular menus along with live music. Buckhead: 404-474-9508. Roswell: 770-993-5749. thebigketch.com.

The Federal is hosting its usual brunch and dinner menus on New Year’s Eve, showcasing such dishes as chicken & waffles, Alaskan king salmon, dry-aged Kansas City strip and the popular Federal burger, along with a few surprises. The last dinner seating is at 11 p.m., and the bar is open until 1 a.m. 404-343-3857; thefederalatl.com. Closed New Year’s Day.

Normally closed on Sunday, Gunshow is open from 5 to 9 p.m. on New Year’s Eve, offering its regular service (with chefs rotating selections tableside) and a properly festive menu. 404-380-1886; gunshowatl.com. Closed Jan. 1.

Weary travelers passing through Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport during the holiday weekend can count on Hojeij Branded Foods favorites on the concourse, such as Cat Cora's Kitchen, Gordon Biersch and Varasano’s. hbfairports.com.

Gamechanger at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium is the place to eat a lineup of tasty bites from fan favorite Kevin Gillespie while watching the Atlanta Falcons take on the Carolina Panthers on Dec. 31 or cheering on the Peach Bowl New Year’s Day. redbeardrestaurants.com/gamechanger.

Ormsby’s, West Midtown’s good-time gathering place, will be open during regular hours on New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day. Enjoy craft beer and fresh pub fare while you play a round of bocce ball with friends. 404-968-2033; ormsbysatlanta.com.

Kevin Gillespie’s Revival is open its usual Sunday hours on New Year’s Eve, serving brunch from 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. and three-course family-style dinner and à la carte menus of traditional Southern favorites from 5 to 9 p.m. 470-225-6770; revivaldecatur.com. Closed Jan. 1.

Smokebelly BBQ is open regular hours with chef specials on New Year’s Eve. The restaurant is also serving New Year’s Day brunch, making it the perfect spot to enjoy chef-crafted barbecue while watching the college bowl games. 404-848-9100; smokebellybbq.com.

Storico Fresco Alimentari e Ristorante is open for dinner from 5:30 to 10 p.m. on New Year’s Eve, serving its regular menu and several surprises. 404-500-2181; storicofresco.com. Closed New Year’s Day.

With over 100 beers on draft, the Southeast’s Original Buffalo wings and 50+ HD TVs for enjoying sporting events, Taco Mac is a prime destination for a pre-game warm up on Dec. 31 and watching all the football action on New Year’s Day. All locations are open both days. tacomac.com.

All Atlanta-area locations of Tin Lizzy's Cantina are open regular hours, with the Buckhead, Grant Park, Mall of Georgia, Midtown, Kennesaw and Perimeter locations open until midnight as usual. The downtown, East Cobb and Sugarloaf Parkway locations are open until 11 p.m. All locations open New Year’s Day. tinlizzyscantina.com.

Typically closed on Sunday, Umi is open on Dec. 31, serving its menu of sushi, sashimi, nigiri and other Japanese favorites. 404-841-0040; umiatlanta.com. Himitsu, Umi’s exclusive Japanese cocktail lounge, is also open. puraibeto.com/himitsu. Both are closed Jan. 1.

Those looking to ring in the New Year with sweets can pick up tasty treats at all three locations of Henri’s Bakery & Café on Dec. 30. The Atlanta institution will be closed on New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day. henrisbakery.com.  

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There’s Still Time to Throw Together a Holiday Party

Party? No party? PARTY! Not everyone’s an early bird in the party-planning department. Procrastinators, take heart. Atlanta restaurants can still accommodate parties from intimate dinners and lively chef’s tables to cocktail receptions for larger groups. Your guests will never know you “threw a little something together” as they merrily celebrate the holidays hobnobbing with great food and spirits.

Multiple Locations

HOBNOB Neighborhood Tavern sets a casual environment perfect for large groups desiring to party in both Midtown and Town Brookhaven. Enjoy a mouthwatering menu of appetizers, gourmet pizzas, burgers and other favorites in laid-back dining rooms or kick back with a high gravity craft beer on the patios. Want it all? Consider a buyout to use the entire restaurant or patio at both locations or book the semi-private dining area at HOBNOB in Brookhaven. To discuss your visions, fees and menus, call 404-968-2288 for Midtown, 404-464-8971 for Town Brookhaven.

Mouths water at the mention of Ray’s Restaurants graced with award-winning chefs and impeccable service at three locations across the city. A dedicated events manager at each Ray’s Restaurant trims stress right out of the picture -- what a gift!

In downtown Atlanta, Ray's in the City welcomes guests into private and semi-private rooms and areas glowing with rich woods and ambient lighting. Consider breakfast or brunch buffets, lunch, pre-selected dinner menus or exciting dinner buffets with stations for stir-fry, pasta, salad, carving or made-to-order sushi. Toast to a full range of bar ideas including mimosa or bloody mary bar add-ons. Host parties of various sizes, from up to 16 guests for a Wine Cellar dinner to 75 guests in the Peachtree Room overlooking Peachtree Street. Email cityevents@raysrestaurants.com.

Alongside the Chattahoochee River in Sandy Springs, Ray's on the River can host riverside events “outside” in the Grand Pavilion -- a covered, temperature-controlled environment accommodating up to 120 guests seated or 150 guests for cocktails, as well as a band or DJ and a dance floor. Inside the restaurant, host up to 70 guests for dinner or cocktails in the Private Dining Room and up to 30 guests in the semi-private River Room. Options vary, including pre-selected lunch and dinner menus, appetizers, platters, hors d’oeuvre, full buffets and chef-attended carving stations. Email riverevents@raysrestaurants.com.

In Alpharetta, Ray's at Killer Creek encompasses several space options to accommodate up to 70 guests. Seat up to 26 guests for dinner in the private Cellar with its warm woods, stone hearth and fireplace or up to 60 guests in the dividable Wine-Jordan Room, flanked by fine wines and a private courtyard. Outside, up to 70 guests can enjoy family style seating in the covered and heated Creek Room overlooking Foe’s Killer Creek. Email creekevents@raysrestaurants.com.

Sports fans look to Taco Mac for game days, but did you know the spirited locales score points in the fa-la-la field for holiday parties? Sure, you can have wings and beer – and everyone’s favorite American fare, wine and cocktails as well. Count on loads of space for larger parties and some locations can host events in private dining areas. Throw together an impromptu gathering or call ahead to accommodate larger groups.

Intown

5Church Atlanta sets the scene for swanky holiday parties at Peachtree and 14th streets in Midtown, beginning with the moment guests step out of their cars to complimentary valet parking. The rooftop patio accessorizes sparkly attire with the dazzling lights of Peachtree Street. Inside, large-scale artwork adds drama to private dining areas for groups large and small. See spaces, hors d’oeuvre and menu package ideas here. Email sales@5churchatlanta.com or call 404-400-3669.

Nostalgic glamour meets modern glitz at American Cut in The Shops Buckhead Atlanta. Three floors of top-notch party options woo you: private dining in The Cut Bar on street level, private dining rooms with seating capacities of 14 and 42 guests within the second-floor dining level, and an indoor/outdoor rooftop setting of The Regent Cocktail Club. Thrill guests with starry skies, striking skyline views and handcrafted cocktails at The Regent Cocktail Club where there’s even space for a jazzy trio or other live entertainment. Guests at American Cut and The Regent Cocktail Club enjoy three hours of complimentary covered deck parking. Contact events@ldvatlanta.com.

For the ultimate in understated elegance for special occasions and holiday parties, buy out Aria, Gerry Klaskala’s acclaimed Buckhead restaurant. Call the restaurant at 404-233-7673 for more information.

Host the holiday shindig in Atlanta’s oldest continuously licensed tavern. Lively Atkins Park Restaurant & Bar in Virginia-Highland welcomes guests into an unpretentious environment where an upstairs room accommodates 30 guests for a sit-down dinner or 50 guests for a cocktail reception. Call 404-876-7249 for more information.

Create an event that’s sure to impress at Bulla Gastrobar in Midtown. Inspired by tapas restaurants of Spain, Bulla offers options for private luncheons or dinners with three-course or tapas-style menus and cocktail parties featuring Bulla’s signature wines and handcrafted spirits. Call 404-858-1577 for more information.

Invite guests to enjoy an American bistro-style party at The Federal in Midtown. Big group? The more the merrier at a restaurant buyout. Two-hour validated parking is offered in the adjacent 1010 Midtown parking deck. Email info@TheFederalAtl.com.

Food 101 American Kitchen & Bar in Sandy Springs excels in creating joyful memories wrapped around fabulous meals, service and special events. The local landmark restaurant’s private dining room can accommodate 40 people seated or 50 for a cocktail reception. Food 101 experts will help plan specialized menus and events within budget to keep the ho-ho-ho in your holidays. Follow this link to learn more or call 404-424-9773.

gusto! sets up a “Build your own gusto!” self-serve buffet that’s a huge, healthy hit with crowds of 20 people or more. The package includes mixed greens and Jasmine brown rice, grilled chicken and grilled portabella mushrooms plus two gusto! flavors: chile citrus barbecue, tahini cucumber feta, sweet soy Sriracha, chipotle mango avocado, apple curry peanut or Buffalo buttermilk blue. For groups of 20 folks or less, gusto! offers “Bowled Orders.” Add tea, lemonade and dessert platters for an additional charge; $100 order minimum for delivery. Contact Ryan Harrison at gusto! Ponce, 770-856-7417; Trey Strawn at gusto! Peachtree, 678-800-8372.

An event at Gypsy Kitchen transports guests to a beautiful, out-of-the-ordinary destination where Spanish cuisine mingles with foods inspired by the spice trade of India, Morocco and other countries. Chefs can create tasting menus, elaborate spreads or passed appetizers matched by a splendid bar program rich in Old World-style wines, craft cocktails and European beers. Contact Elizabeth Ridgway at Elizabeth@sphospitality.com or call 404-964-9253.

Himitsu impresses guests with “omotenashi,” the Japanese concept of selfless hospitality. The luxurious Japanese craft cocktail lounge located a few doors down from Umi in Buckhead hosts buyouts (65 guests seated, 100 standing) as well as semi-private events in the upper-level mezzanine (28 guests seated, 40 standing). Menus are specially created for each occasion, whether it’s passed appetizers, serving stations or a seated dinner. Consider serving sake and signature craft cocktails from Himitsu alongside Umi’s trademark beautiful sushi rolls and small bites from executive chef Fuyuhiko Ito and pastry chef Lisa Ito. Himitsu means “secret” in Japanese; after the party, the word will be out about the wonderfully memorable experience.

Located on the Westside under the White Provisions building, Ormsby’s feels like one of the city’s best-kept secrets. But it’s a leading destination for gatherings and celebrations of all sizes and stripes, thanks to a variety of games (shuffleboard, darts, bocce ball, board games and pool) perfect for socializing. With a wide selection of craft beers and a menu of classic and creative gastropub favorites, it’s a casual crowd-pleaser. Contact Leslie Battle, lbattle@ormsbysatlanta.com or 404-968-2033.

Red Beard Restaurants -- Gunshow in Glenwood Park and Revival in Decatur -- offer private and semi-private rooms accommodating small to large parties. For sizeable crowds, buy out one of the restaurants. The expert staff tailors menus and bar packages to suit, offering wines by the glass or bottle, beer, specialty cocktails and more. Both restaurants happily handle vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free and food allergy sensitive needs. Gunshow‘s open kitchen, shared dining room and daily changing, family style menu lends itself to groups of 50-70, corporate buyouts or a group reservation for 13-24 guests. Chef Joey Ward pulls platters and desserts from the night’s menu, and individual chefs will visit guest tables with serving platters bearing their creations. Revival’s versatile floor plan seats lunch for 10, dinner for 25 or a cocktail party for 50 guests, and family style menus please for groups of 20-50 guests with a choice of soup or salad, entrée, chef-selected trimmings and a dessert. Contact events@redbeardrestaurants.com.

Storico Fresco Alimentari in Buckhead sets a Chef’s Table in the heart of the kitchen where guests revel while enjoying great food, wine and all the sights and sounds of a busy kitchen. Choose from different menu options that can include multiple courses, wine pairings or even family style pastas at the Chef’s Table, Commissary Kitchen and other options within this authentic Italian restaurant. Move quickly to lock in a date. For details and dates, email reservations@storicofresco.com.

Hurry! Sweet Charlie’s in Buckhead is offering 10 percent off holiday catering for orders booked before Dec. 1. An ice cream roll party at your place? Now that’s a novel and chill idea. Roll with it by contacting their catering staff.

With Victorian-era decor and ambiance, The Blind Pig Parlour Bar provides an intimate and sophisticated environment for dining and drinking for up to 80 guests. The 1920s-inspired Buckhead speakeasy features craft cocktails, small plates and live entertainment -- all in a smoke-free facility -- and is available as an event space any day of the week. Contact sales and events manager April Pitman, april@sphospitality.com or 404-931-1251.

The Southern Gentleman celebrates the essence of the South, and relaxed, yet polished, entertaining plays a major role. Treat guests to a fresh, modern and locally sourced take on Southern cuisine with handcrafted cocktails. Expansive space accommodates up to 150 guests, and dinner menus begin at $35 per person. Patio parties, group dinners and private, customized bourbon, rye or whiskey tastings are perfectly delightful ideas. Contact Elizabeth Ridgway at Elizabeth@sphospitality.com or call 404-964-9253.

Outside the Perimeter

Milton’s Cuisine & Cocktails in historic Crabapple provides a charming setting for parties of eight to 200 guests. Follow this link for a taste of what’s in store when hosting an event in the restored areas of the farmhouse including the Breezeway (16 guests), the Milton Room (40 guests), the Mayfield Room (24 guests), the Broadwell Room (12 guests), the Banquet Porch (40 seated) or the Bar (32-50 guests). Contact sales and events manager Jill Hayes at Jill@miltonscuisine.com or 678-431-8753.

Celebrate with sustainable seafood and spirits at Brine Modern Seafood Shack in Alpharetta’s beautiful Avalon development. Come casual for Cape Cod meets Santa Monica style with awesome private dining options for events of all sizes and occasions and oceans of free parking. For more information, contact elizabeth@sofried.com.

Stop flip-flopping on whether to have a party or not and coast into beachy holiday party bliss at The Big Ketch Saltwater Grill - Canton Street in charming Roswell. Come ashore to seafood, cocktails and casual vibe where heels and Hawaiian shirts are equally appropriate. For inquiries about large parties and events, email events@tbkroswell.com.

Chicken and the Egg in Marietta offers intimate, private chef’s table dining for 24-28 guests around custom-made, distressed wood tables. For more information, contact Elizabeth Taft at 678-388-8813 or elizabeth@sofried.com.

Beyond the Perimeter, Seed Kitchen & Bar and Stem Wine Bar in East Cobb provide lunch, dinner and cocktail party options and copious free parking. At Seed, select from prix fixe brunch, lunch and dinner menu options or mix and match from menus for get-togethers of 10 to 50 guests for dinner, more for cocktails on the patio. Download Seed’s Event Planning Guide for more space details and a sample menu. Stem Wine Bar is a mighty “vine” option for a private lunch event Monday through Saturday, a private wine dinner or a restaurant buyout for groups of up to 40 seated or 60 for cocktails. Contact Chris McNeill, general manager, at cmcneill@eatatseed.com or 678-214-6888.

Cruise to Drift Fish House & Oyster Bar at The Avenue in East Cobb for a deliciously doable venture thrilling seafarers and landlubbers alike. Seat up to eight guests in the Wine Room, Oyster Bar or at a Chef’s Table. Groups of up to 20 guests can be seated at one table or 28 at multiple tables in the Shiplap Room. Deck the halls outside, hosting 26 guests in the covered patio area or up to 50 on the full patio. Buyouts are available. Follow this link for more information or call 770-635-7641.

Himitsu Wins Surface Magazine’s Travel Award for Best Bar on Global Stage

Count Himitsu among 21 global winners of the inaugural Surface Travel Awards, as announced by Farshid Arshid, co-owner of the Japanese craft cocktail lounge in the heart of Atlanta’s posh Buckhead neighborhood. Himitsu, designed by Tom Dixon’s Design Research Studio in London, triumphed in the bar category. The tribute recognizes the best and most thoughtfully conceived spaces and products, as well as the architects, designers and other innovators who inspire, empower and connect travelers. Recipients are featured in the second annual October Travel issue of Surface. Winners were chosen out of 500 submissions across 21 categories. Among the design and hospitality professionals jurying entries: Dana Cowin, media personality and former editor-in-chief, Food & Wine; Elizabeth Diller, architect and founding partner, Diller Scofidio + Renfro; Murray Moss, design entrepreneur and co-founder, Moss Bureau; Roopal Patel, SVP, fashion director, Saks Fifth Avenue; Michael Rock, founder, 2x4; Troy Conrad Therrien, curator, Architecture and Digital Initiatives, Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum; and Adam Wells, head of design, Virgin Galactic. Himitsu’s theatrical speakeasy décor is inspired by the rich colors and textures of Todd Murphy’s 12-by-16-foot painting “King of the Birds.” Sculptural pieces, a juxtaposition of slick metallic against rough natural materials, industrial and exposed structural elements are forefront, while a discreet stairwell imparts a sense of exclusivity for guests ascending to the upper level mezzanine lounge. Tom Dixon Melt pendants cast an ethereal, hallucinogenic light on surroundings. Truly, Himitsu is one of a kind on the world’s luxury lounge scene.

Cocktail World Mover and Shaker and International Bartender of the Year Shingo Gokan Visits Himitsu July 26-29

World renowned cocktail ace Shingo Gokan, who’s also the creative director behind the bar program at Himitsu, will visit the Tokyo-style cocktail lounge in Buckhead over the dates of July 26-29. Over the weekend, Gokan took home the International Bartender of the Year title at the Tales of the Cocktail conference in NOLA. Read more about Gokan on The Dish blog and open his Instagram @SoberSpeaker for insight on his thoughts and inspirations. Reserve a seat at Himitsu to experience the wow factor of Gokan’s signature sips such as the Raichi of lychee-cello, lemon, grapefruit and rosewater ($16); Serori with gin, celery, Chartreuse, elderflower and lime ($19); Kyuri, potent with gin, cucumber, lemongrass, pineapple and absinthe ($18); Yashinomi of rum, coconut, Kaffir lime, galangal honey and chili ($16); Ko-Hi, alert with mezcal, coconut, cold-press coffee, kokuto and vanilla salt ($18); or Kemuri, strong with Japanese whisky, Kijoshu sake, Oloroso sherry, Benedictine, bitters and smoke ($21). Serious about his cocktails, Gokan pays “Homage” to fun concoctions like Beton cappuccino of mezcal, Becherovka, cacao butter, citrus, egg white and tonic water ($17); a lavender-laced Kiwi gin gimlet ($17); and Peanut Alexander blending bourbon, peanut butter, Averna and vanilla cream ($16). You go, Gokan!

Himitsu Artisanal Ice Rocks the Cocktail World

Chip off the old ice block? Hardly. At Himitsu, the artistry of creating perfect libations begins with the ice in your glass. Himitsu creative director Shingo Gokan oversees an impressively chill ice program influenced by both classic and modern Japanese bartending and executed by Himitsu’s bar team. Each and every piece of frozen water served in a drink is hand-crafted. Physics, thermodynamics, saws, cleavers, ice picks and a special menkiri bocho knife all come into play creating precisely shaped and sized ice pieces. Under Gokan’s direction, it’s crystal clear – just like the ice itself – that ice is a vital ingredient specific to the texture, temperature, mouthfeel and aeration of each cocktail. At the reservation-only Buckhead cocktail lounge, specially trained staff adheres to an ice prep schedule, perfecting skills daily to hone the various formats of ice used in the different shakers and mixing vessels. Another cool consideration, Himitsu ice spheres are individually embossed using ice presses fabricated in Japan especially for the lounge and 3-D printing is used to create specific ice branding for private parties. Every sliver of detail counts here, just as you would expect at the luxury companion lounge to popular Buckhead sushi restaurant Umi.

Get to Know One in 10,000 – Shingo Gokan, the Internationally Recognized Cocktail Maestro behind Himitsu’s Bar Program

Competing in – and winning -- the Bacardi Legacy Global Cocktail competition against 10,000 bartenders representing 26 countries is enough to make even the strongest cocktail crafter nervous. Unless you’re Shingo Gokan. He wasn’t shaken. He was stirred -- into pouring himself into the art of classic Japanese bartending. Gokan, who started his career in Tokyo in 2001, became the first guest bartender ever to be invited to the Savoy Hotel in London, going on to teach a master class and guest bartend at historically celebrated venues around the world. His cocktail crafting travels have taken him to more than 30 countries, leading him to open the speakeasy Speak Low in Shanghai in 2014 followed by founding Sober Company, also in Shanghai, in 2017. He’s recently been nominated for the 2017 Tales of the Cocktail Spirit Award: International Bartender of the Year for having the most influence and impact on the cocktail culture this year. So you’re asking, “Where can I experience Gokan’s sensational cocktail maestro skills? Shanghai is no “Waze” near my daily commute?” Cheers! Gokan is the creative director behind the bar and beverage program at Himitsu, giving libations at Buckhead’s by-reservation-only cocktail lounge a distinct modern vibe you won’t find anywhere else in Atlanta…or perhaps, in the world. Find him on Instagram @soberspeaker.

#Foodgram: Shingo Gokan

Bar none, here’s high proof Himitsu cocktail maestro Shingo Gokan @SoberSpeaker has as much talent with the camera lens as he does creating new mixed drinks. Some pics are laughable tongue in cheek, others swizzle in cocktails of “dirty” mango, kiwi in cordial or straw in coconut.

Appetizing Aperture

Himitsu means “secret.” That said, the word’s out about the “by-reservation-only” Japanese craft cocktail lounge in the heart of Buckhead with its unique cocktail program. Ben Yabrow and his bar team execute precise mixtures such as the Pandan, a crystal clear blend of Pandan rum, scotch, pineapple, coconut, spice and clarified milk. Clearly, amazing.

5Church, Drift and Himitsu to Shake Up Highball at the High Mixology Competition Feb. 18

Fifteen mixologists compete in a barroom battle stiffer than a straight shot when the High Museum of Art swizzles its first Highball on Saturday, Feb. 18. Jose Pereiro of Drift Fish House & Oyster Bar, Greta Buccellato of 5Church Atlanta and Ben Yabrow of Himitsu are among the cocktail movers and shakers crafting boozy creations and competing drink for drink. Sample craft cocktails, nibble bar bites, relax with music and activities and cast your vote for top cocktailer. Proceeds from the 7:30-11 p.m. mixer pour into a top-shelf cause, the High Museum of Art. Buy tickets online -- $100 per museum member (must login), $125 nonmembers.

2017 Predictions: Chefs and Farmers Tighten the Knot, Cocktails on Tap…and Lasagna Cupcakes

Reading tea leaves? Nope. We’re going straight to those in the know, Atlanta’s trendsetting chefs, for insider predictions on the culinary keen for 2017.
 
 - Red Beard Restaurants chef/owner Kevin Gillespie sees chefs zeroing in on the thing they do exceptionally well, scaling restaurants down in size, serving one thing or offering a very limited menu.

 - Executive chef Matthew Ridgway of Gypsy Kitchen agrees, predicting smaller restaurants “focused on a simpler ‘bistronomy’ style of cooking that puts the emphasis on the food and flavor.”

 - Doug Turbush (Seed Kitchen & Bar, Stem Wine Bar, Drift Fish House & Oyster Bar), like many in the industry, is keeping an eye on skyrocketing meat prices and sees chefs moo-ving toward alternative cuts and “the creative use of vegetables.”

 - Southern Fried Hospitality’s Marc Taft also is looking at alternatives to protein, “maybe mixing mushrooms with beef for burgers” and also predicts “vegetables will take center stage.”

 - Dolce Italian chef Paolo Dorigato sees a sprouting love affair with fresh vegetables and less reliance on meat leading toward more seasonal vegetables and fewer proteins to create something good, accessible and reasonably priced.

 - The emphasis on locally sourced veggies will tighten bonds between farmers, chefs and diners. Ormsby’s chef Nick Anderson believes “farmers markets are going to blow up, becoming even more popular as farmers come to markets to supply demand.”

 - Bellina Alimentari creative director Alice Fabi agrees. “The relationship between the chef and the farmer is becoming crucial, with both parties working creatively and efficiently together. Chefs become storytellers, going to the source of ingredients and interpreting what is in season directly from farm to table.” 

 - Revival chef Andreas Müller sees restaurants sourcing products from their own farms and smaller local farms growing greens and vegetables for one restaurant only.

 - Takeout windows and home delivery are booming as weeknight options for time-starved hungry diners. Gypsy Kitchen’s Ridgway predicts more chefs plow into this growing consumer need “using really good ingredients alongside an increasing mix of ethnic ingredients.”

 - As food delivery grows, Southern Fried Hospitality’s Taft says chefs “need to create food that travels well and be able to capture the art of presentation in the foods that are delivered.”

 - Jamie Lynch of 5Church thinks chef-inspired meal kits are going to take off. “People can put together some of their favorite chefs’ dishes at home. There are a couple of kits I’d like to grab for myself, just to see how they do it!”

 - HOBNOB Neighborhood Tavern director of operations Mark Nelson foresees growth in walk-up ordering and delivery as well as a return to more casual restaurant environments and a more technologically wired customer who may order drinks or food through smartphone technology.

 - Johnny’s Hideaway owner Chris Dauria also predicts an uptick in mobile device ordering “but not at the Hideaway!”

 - Ormsby’s Anderson says “Asian restaurants are going to start doing American takeovers, like Korean barbecue doing Southern barbecue ribs.”

 - American Cut executive chef John Adamson is excited about “an emergence of ultra-regionalized ethnic food.”

 - On the cocktail front, Marlow’s Tavern’s Rick Blumberg sees more wine and cocktails on tap in our imbibing futures, plus cocktails enhanced with fortified wine. “I think we will continue to see more sherry, Madeira and port cocktails.”

 - Ben Yabrow of Himitsu says guests are moving toward more refreshing drinks rather than the boozy and stirred variety. He says, “It’s exciting to see more people putting their faith in the bartender's judgment.” 

 - Sublime Doughnuts founder Kamal Grant predicts a growing hunger for spicy and savory/sweet combinations, saying “Thanks to the popularity of Sriracha, Americans’ tolerance for heat has increased, and they want more.” Here’s where lasagna cupcakes and doughnuts filled with salad, vegetables or meat enter the scene in traditional sweets made in a savory style.

Top Chefs and Restaurants Flood Atlanta’s Taste of the Nation for No Kid Hungry at the Georgia Aquarium April 28

This is the biggie. Taste of the Nation for Share Our Strength - No Kid Hungry, now in its 28^th year, is one of Atlanta’s most prominent benefits drawing major culinary talents and their restaurants, including Aria, Gunshow, Gypsy Kitchen,Himitsu, Revival, Seed Kitchen & Bar, Umi and others. In all, guests will sample dishes from more than 50 restaurants while sipping a global selection of award-winning wines and craft cocktails. Wait, there’s more. Silent and live auctions tempt guests to bid on rare wines, world-class trips and remarkable dining and culinary experiences while music flows from the Joe Gransden Quartet. All the nibbling and bidding will ultimately take a bite out of hunger and poor nutrition in Georgia through Share our Strength and the helping hands of the Atlanta Community Food Bank, Share Our Strength’s Cooking Matters, Our House, The Georgia Citizens’ Coalition on Hunger, The Georgia Budget and Policy Institute and Captain Planet Foundation. Buy tickets online through 8 p.m. April 27 or at the door: $350 VIP, $250 general admission. VIP ticketholders enter at 6:30 p.m. for a VIP cocktail hour; general admission ticketholders enter at 7:30 p.m., and everyone parties until 10 p.m. Fish have to sleep sometime.

Upscale Lounge Himitsu Shakes Up Peachtree

Himitsu, the new companion luxury lounge for popular Buckhead restaurant Umi, is now open at 3050 Peachtree Road. Co-owners Farshid Arshid and Charlie Hendon are samurai-serious about their devotion to high-end service and classic Japanese bartending, right down to the last individually embossed piece of crystal-clear ice. Atlanta cocktail artisan T. Fable Jeon takes the shaker as director to execute an inventive array of libations from the mind of Himitsu creative director Shingo Gokan. A lengthy libation list features an extensive sake collection, shōchū, cocktails and wine, plus a menu of small dishes and desserts. To ensure an exclusive experience, reservations are required to receive a code to enter the 60-seat, two-level Himitsu. Reservations can be made by emailing hello@puraibeto.com. Hours are Wednesday through Saturday, 7 p.m.-1:30 a.m.  

T. Fable Jeon Shakes and Stirs as Director at New Himitsu Lounge

Parched on Peachtree? Relief is coming -- straight up. Atlanta cocktail artisan T. Fable Jeon takes the shaker as director of Himitsu, the upscale Japanese-inspired lounge from the team behind Umi in Buckhead. Jeon will oversee and execute creative director Shingo Gokan’s signature beverage program. Catch a glimpse of the pimento-stuffed-cocktail-olive-speared-with-a-plastic-cocktail-sword-pic tattoo on the forearm of this cocktail craftsman as he pours Japanese showmanship, Southern culture and classic American barkeeping into his shaker. His handiwork has already stimulated area cocktail culture at Sound Table, The Pinewood Tippling Room and Guy Wong’s Le Fat. Tattooed arm aside, it’s no wonder Beverage Media magazine name Jeon one of 10 Mixologists to Watch in 2011.