
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
Tour de Champagne Is This Saturday, February 28

Monday, February 23, 2009
Souper Soup Challenge
Friday, February 20, 2009
America’s Next Top Chef?

With the recent cheflebrity of local Top Chef finalist and new Creative Loafing columnist, Richard Blais, several local chefs have decided to get in on the action. This Sunday, chefs from all over the state will line up to show casting directors that they’re packing more than their knives at the casting call for an upcoming season of Bravo’s hit series. With all the culinary talent Atlanta has packed into this city, many great chefs are not going to make the cut. And, since we all know that how one does on camera is just as important (maybe even more so) as how they do in the kitchen, many creative chefs who are the strong, silent type are going to appear to be side dishes next to natural performers.
Nevertheless, I'm excited at the prospect of having the chef of one of my favorite local eateries being showcased on the show! Atlanta has a lifetime supply of chefs who are at the top of their game and I hope Bravo recognizes it. Good luck to all the brave chefs who make it out to the audition and let’s all hope that the next Top Chef is one we Atlantans are proud to call our own and are fortunate enough to share with the rest of the world. Here is a brief list of chefs that I know are trying out. *(Feel free to add to the list if you know more!)
- Ben McPherson at Eclipse di Luna
- Craig Richard at La Tavola Trattoria
- Kevin Gillespie at Woodfire Grill
- Hector Santiago at Pure Vida
- Travis Collum at (the newly opened) Kozmo Gastro Pub
Bonne chance!
Thursday, February 19, 2009
Eclipse di Luna Hosts Atlanta Photography Group's Second Annual Silent Aucion
Last night was the Atlanta Photography Group's second annual silent auction event. The bidding began at only $10 for many of the items. Eclipse di Luna provided complimentary appetizers for the guests, and there were tons of cocktail specials at the bar. Over 60 people attended the event, and many left with more than one item. I was outbid on four of the items I bid on. I guess that's what happens when you're refilling your glass of wine at the bar!
The Atlanta Photography Group's primary goal is to promote and support contemporary photography as a significant form. It seeks to challenge photographic conventions, stimulate new thinking and exploration of experimental forms of photographic expression.
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
Milk And Cookies With Martha
Only Martha Stewart would serve milk and cookies at a book signing. And not just any cookies.....soft ginger snaps, divine chocolate chip, chocolate thumbprint, traditional sugar cookies and shortbread. I waited in line for hours, eating warm cookies and drinking milk, at the Georgia Aquarium for a chance to meet my crafty idol Martha. When I finally reached the domestic goddess, she signed my cookbook with perfect posture and a wide friendly smile. Her cookbook Cookies will be my new go-to baking book. Tune in to the Martha Stewart Show March 5th to watch her special on "Atlanta" featuring the Georgia Aquarium. 
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
Wine Time!

Doctors say a glass of wine a day is good for the heart- what other excuse do you need for some quality vino? Well, Pizza Fusion is now offering another reason to drink up. Pizza Fusion, home to pizzas made with wholesome ingredients and served in earth-friendly environs, is offering select wines at half price on Tuesdays! For an even better slice of the good life, invite some friends to share a whole wheat pizza topped with fresh, good-for-you toppings.
Pizza Fusion: At the Astoria in the Aramore building at 2233 Peachtree Road; 404-351-9334.
Monday, February 16, 2009
Golden Gala
I love being a volunteer for the pet rescue organization, Adopt A Golden Atlanta. I do all that I can to help find the sweet Golden Retrievers (and a few Great Pyrenees) loving, forever homes.That's why I'm helping to get the word out about their first annual Golden Gala this Saturday, February 21 at the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre. The evening's emcee with be 11 Alive's Paul Ossmann with his weather dog, Doppler. There will be a live auction, silent auction and a wonderful dinner accompanied by a program honoring the goldens helped through the program.
Tickets to the event are on sale until midnight tonight, so click here to buy them now! There will also be a Jeep raffle going on in which a 2009 will be given away at then event. Tickets can be bought online or at the event. Prince, the sweet boy to your left, thanks you!
Friday, February 13, 2009
Last Minute Love
In case you've been slacking off on making Valentine's Day plans, Eclipse di Luna- Miami Circle and Whole Foods Market have come to the rescue with events, recipes and gift ideas that don't require too much planning. While Eclipse di Luna keeps the party going for couples and singles with special cocktails and desserts in addition to a South Beach-inspired soiree complete with the sounds of DJ Mike Smith and percussionist DeShaun Williams beginning at 10:30 p.m., Whole Foods Market says home is where the heart is with romantic meal options, two dozen roses for $19.99, wine, gourmet cheeses and chocolates. Check out this article that ran in the Atlanta Journal-Constitution today featuring these suggestions and more. Eclipse di Luna in Buckhead: 764 Miami Circle; 404-846-0449. Admission is free.
Whole Foods Market: Seven Atlanta-area locations. For a store near you, click here.
Thursday, February 12, 2009
Herding Cattle




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.Wednesday, February 11, 2009
Toulouse Hosts Hello Stiletto Shoe Club's Red Shoe Party
Does Everybody Know What Time It Is??
What is it about these cookies that makes me eat six at a time? I think it has something to do with my childhood. I was a Girl Scout for years and the best part about being one is selling the cookies. My mom was my best customer. She would buy several boxes of thin mints and store them in the freezer. Mmmm, those cookies are best when frozen.
Tagalongs
Boxes are $3.50 and they go quick. AJC's John Kessler noted on his blog, Food & More that the Girl Scouts are putting fewer cookies in boxes this year. That actually makes me feel better that my roommate and I already finished a box of Thin Mints.
I hope you enjoy the photos. I needed an excuse to eat one of each before lunch...
Be The Truck. Not The Squirrel.
Be The Truck. Not The Squirrel. That's rule #1 in Andrew Sherman's book "Road Rules." Last night I drove up to Roswell to Nirvana Cafe & Grille and heard Sherman (right) interviewed by an old friend and business coach Mitch Schlimer (left). Kinda funny that so many of Sherman's "12 essential rules for navigating the road of life" were also applicable to the hellacious journey up GA-400 at rush hour! But I guess that's the point.Nirvana was the perfect setting for this live interview. They really walk the walk when it comes to caring about people's health (by serving organic, fresh sandwiches/salads/soups/ice cream) and people's success (through numerous educational programs and the restaurant's "empowerment zone"). Most of their community activities are geared to empowering and educating youth but this one was purely adult. About 40 business owners were there and we all felt it was time well spent. They plan to make this a regular series and I will surely be back.
In the meantime, I'll be practicing the Road Rules on 400, 85, 75, Peachtree Street and my life: Share the Road, Pay Attention to the Signs, Don't Fear the Back Roads, Be an All-Weather Driver .....
Monday, February 9, 2009
Wolf Mountain Vineyards Comes Back From Winter Break
After giving the vines and vintners the month of January off for good behavior and a well-deserved rest, Wolf Mountain Vineyards & Winery has reopened the Vineyard Café on Saturdays and Sundays in February from noon until 3 p.m. for lunch and wine tastings. The lunch menu is loaded with foods that pair well with wines – hot sandwiches, pastas, entrees and gourmet personal pizzas topped with savories such as smoked venison sausage, smoked salmon, grilled chicken and goat cheese. My personal favorite is the crab cake sandwich.
For ordering ease, wine and food pairings are suggested on the menu. Call to make reservations, and take a leisurely drive north to Georgia’s wine country.
Wolf Mountain Vineyards & Winery: 180 Wolf Mountain Trail in Dahlonega; 706-867-9862.
Friday, February 6, 2009
Marlow's Northlake Entertains Atlanta Photography Group
Forty photographers from the Atlanta area gathered at Marlow's Tavern on La Vista Road for a monthly meet and greet last night. Marlow's served The Atlanta Photography group firecracker shrimp, hummus, spinach dip, kettle chips and their popular shrimp and crab nachos. The February meet and greet was a perfect warm up for the 2nd Annual Silent Auction on Wednesday February 18th at Eclipse Di Luna.
Hosted by: Eclipse Di Luna (764 Miami Circle, Atlanta, Georgia 30324 404.846.0449)
Thursday, February 5, 2009
Whole Foods Market Gives You the Whole Story on Crystal Organic Farms
It’s always nice to know where your food comes from. Whole Foods Market gives you the chance to get up close and personal with the animals, faces and places behind the wholesome products found in their shelves via their Whole Story blog. A recent profile of Nicolas Donck of Crystal Organics, Georgia’s first organic farm, reveals the passion behind his certified organic Garden of Eden products. Donck began farming when he left his home in Belgium at 16 and has been a leader in organic farming practically ever since. He even started Atlanta’s first organic farmer’s market!Wednesday, February 4, 2009
MLA Joins Facebook

Did you know today is the fifth anniversary of Facebook? When Mark Zuckerberg created Facebook five-years ago it was exclusively for Harvard- o, how the times have changed. Therefore today seems like an appropriate time to announce our new Facebook page. It's true! The ladies of MLA have decided to create a page that peeks into our doings and findings and passes these on to you through tasty tips and journal observations (mostly we think about food, but sometimes we branch out). Join our community of friends and share your thoughts. We promise we won’t bite!
Tuesday, February 3, 2009
Happy National Carrot Cake Day!
Eating healthy in the new year? What could be better than a vegetable cake, right? Okay, I'll admit that I'm one who always goes for the carrot cake because it sounds healthier than the chocolate cake. Whether it is or not is not something I really want to know.So, how convenient to find that today is National Carrot Cake Day. All the dieters of the world probably came up with that so they could indulge after a month of eating only .... ummm ... carrots.
Come to find out, Morton's has a famed carrot cake that is actually based on the recipe of one of their employees. We have the recipe here. Leave a comment if you want us to send - it looks yummy. Or if you're like me and don't really get into that baking/cooking stuff, just head to the Buckhead or Downtown locations for a slice and cup of coffee. What a nice treat!
Pizza Fusion Fundraiser to Re-Raise Stolen Money
I wanted to fill you in on a fundraiser that all Pizza Fusion locations are participating in, including our local Pizza Fusion restaurant. The newest location in Mesa, Arizona had their grand opening party at the end of January, where they were able to raise $8,000 in support of the Smiths, who are still hospitalized for injuries due to a drunk driving accident in which they tragically lost their two sons earlier this month. Sadly, the restaurant was broken into and the newly-raised the funds were stolen. You can read more about this story, here.Now, in an effort to re-raise the money, Pizza Fusion locations everywhere have banded together and are accepting donations for the Smith family at their restaurants or on the website. Through a partnership with Wells Fargo, donations made out to the Tracy and Frank Smith Family Fund can be dropped off at any Pizza Fusion location or a local Wells Fargo.

To show thanks for your donations, the Pizza Fusion in Buckhead is offering a free personal cheese pizza through the end of February to generous donations of $50 or more. The free pizza will be given during the following visit to the restaurant located at the Astoria in the Aramore building at 2233 Peachtree Road; 404-351-9334.
Monday, February 2, 2009
Kozmo Opens Tomorrow
Kozmo Gastro Pub is opening tomorrow and bringing some fresh excitement to the suburbs! We visited the soon-to-be hot spot in Johns Creek on Saturday night for their preview party. It was so great seeing the space go from construction chaos over the last few months to see how fabulous is looked over the weekend. It felt very comfortable and minimal in a modern way.
We got to sample their signature house cocktail the "Kozmo" which was incredibly good. Both tart and sweet, they will be a delight for post-work happy hours. They will have a full menu of unique twists on the original Cosmo as part of their bar offerings.
We also got to taste a sampling from the kitchen. Everything was great, but I really enjoyed the mini-burgers and hummus. As of today the final menu for the restaurant is still being tweaked so I'm looking forward to seeing what the options are when I show up for dinner!
Friday, January 30, 2009
I Love The Wine Opener Event!
Last night my friend Annie and I "sipped and savored" our way around The Atlanta Wine Opener at the Mason Muer Fine Art Gallery. The annual event benefits the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. The gallery is unassuming from the exterior but inside the gallery is a wonderful space. Inspiring art, delicious food, fine wine filled the gallery. Chef Ben McPherson of Eclipse Di Luna introduced the crowd to shrimp ceviche with spicy popcorn. I ate a piquello pepper stuffed with mushrooms at Ecco's table before dunking strawberries and graham crackers in the chocolate fountain. Oh and we did drink wonderful wine! 

It's Amore...

When home is where the heart is, make Whole Foods Market a stop on your homeward bound route. What better way to surprise your mate than with a homemade meal - straight from the heart. Don't forget about those other important elements of a romantic evening... flowers, wine, gourmet cheeses and chocolates. It's all good, and it's all under one eco- friendly roof... in seven locations around town.
Woodfire Grill is the perfect place for lovers during Valentine's week. Modern Romeos and Juliets will want to partake in the "Fools for Love" wine dinner benefiting the Georgia Shakespeare Theatre on Monday, February 9. The savory sonnet woos hearts with an hors d'oeuvre reception, three-course dinner with wine and cabaret entertainment for $100 per person. Date night on Friday, February 13, brings a choice of the full dining room menu or a special $65 per person, four-course Valentine's menu that includes a complimentary glass of cava. Woodfire Grill keeps it simple for starry-eyed couples on Saturday, February 14 by setting forth only the $65 four-course prix fixe menu, with several options for each course, along with a complimentary glass of cava and a take-home box of truffles. There's a place in their heart and on the menu for vegetarians, too. For reservations, call 404-347-9055. Woodfire Grill: 1782 Cheshire Bridge Road.
Thursday, January 29, 2009
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.Ahhh, Moving!
We are leaving Buckhead and heading to the Westside. Our new office at Lumberyard Lofts should be ready in March. But, wait, what about February? 
Our new address is 1425 Ellsworth Industrial Dr./30318. Our phones stay the same 404-816-3068. March will be here before we know it! We're looking forward to having Bone Garden Cantina as our office cafeteria. Come by for a margarita once we've moved in. Oh, and there's still time to come over and help out if you don't have a bad back and you like moving!
Wednesday, January 28, 2009
The Baking Contest - Do I Dare?
Last year, I focused on getting clients involved in the professional competition, but this year I'm half considering entering as an amateur. The only thing holding me back is that I don't really think I'm that great of a baker. I love to cook and if it was entering an entree, appetizer or something along those lines I wouldn't hesitate, but baking is tricky. Heck, I destroyed some meringues last week, and the last time I bragged about my brownies they came out so underdone that you had to eat them with a spoon. But, I have had some successes too and there is nothing like a challenge to get me motivated... I have until February 12 to get my entry in so I guess I'd better decide pretty fast if I'm actually going to do this. I'll keep you posted if I do!Contest entry fees are $25 for amateurs and children, $95 for professionals. Click here to download the entry forms, pay the contest entry fees or buy tickets to the event. Entries must be received no later than February 12, 2009.
Fun and Casual Valentine's Day Dining Ideas
If you're looking out for your wallet or looking for something more casual than the traditional Valentine's Day options, Eclipse di Luna's Miami Circle location, all Marlow's Tavern locations and Uncle Julio's Casa Grande provide fun alternatives that won't break the bank:Eclipse di Luna offers specialty drinks like a strawberry and ginger mojito, berry love martini and a heart-fluttering Red Bull drink on Valentine's Day. Dessert devotees will enjoy chocolate mousse with ganache, red wine and raspberry sauce and olive oil tuile. Around 10:30 p.m., the party starts as D.J. Mike Smith spins the place into the “Miami Love Lounge,” and the affair continues until 2:30 a.m. No cover. For reservations, call 404-846-0449. Eclipse di Luna in Buckhead: 764 Miami Circle.
All six metro-Atlanta Marlow’s Tavern locations have a huggable deal: a three-course Valentine’s Day menu for $29.99 per person. Marlow’s Tavern: 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; Vinings at 2355 Cumberland Parkway, 770-432-2526; Northlake at 4156 LaVista Road, 678-987-1197; and Duluth at 1950 Satellite Boulevard, 770-622-2033.
“Plato de Amor” sounds so romantic -- and tastes even more so when polished off with that special someone at Uncle Julio’s Casa Grande Monday, February 9 through Sunday, February 15. This spot is great for new couples, and the platter includes cold water lobster tail, shrimp brochette, chicken and beef fajitas, as well as guacamole, pico de gallo, rice and beans. Stay sweet by finishing with Uncle Julio’s famous coconut flan or cinnamon sugar-covered churros. Uncle Julio’s Casa Grande: 1860 Peachtree Road, NW; 404-350-6767.
Tuesday, January 27, 2009
Scoop Alert: Dinner with Paula
I just got off the phone with the organizers of Atlanta's second Metropolitan Cooking and Entertaining Show (coming up April 18 - 19), and I got some fabulous scoop. They have just put tickets on sale for a special VIP book signing and supper with Paula Deen on Sunday, April 19 at 4:15 p.m.Valentine's Day Dinner?
For an intimate dining experiene outside of the perimeter, visit Aqua blue in Roswell. From Friday, February 13 through Sunday, February 15, the restaurant will offer a special prix-fixe, three-course Valentine’s menu for $55 per person (add $22 per person for wine pairings). The à la carte and sushi menus are also available. Add a bubbly champagne toast a long-stemmed red rose for $15. Enjoy live music beginnign at 8 p.m. with the sounds of Motown with Michael King on Friday and the music of Doug Easterly on Saturday. For reservations, call 770-643-8886. Aqua blue: 1564 Holcomb Bridge Road.Monday, January 26, 2009
Atlanta's Sweet Super Bowl Specials
This year, some of Atlanta’s restaurants and stores are making Super Bowl party planning really simple. From watching the game at the bar to taking a pizza pie to go, there are tons of options for all of Atlanta’s football fans.Marlow’s Tavern is turning the game on at all six Atlanta area locations on Super Bowl Sunday. Guests can enjoy tasty tavern fare while watching their favorite football heroes fight for the title on one of the eight or more televisions. Marlow’s menu items range in price from $3.99 to $17.99. The restaurant also offers takeout and kid’s menus. Marlow's Tavern in Vinings is located at 2355 Cumberland Parkway, Ste.10; 770-432-2526. Marlow's Tavern in Alpharetta is located at 3719 Old Alabama Road, Bldg. 200, Suite H-I; 770-475-1800. Marlow’s Tavern in Midtown is located at 950 West Peachtree Street; 404-815-0323. Marlow’s Tavern in Kennesaw is located at 745 Chastain Road NW, Suite 1160; 770-425-8777. Marlow’s Tavern in Tucker is located at 4156 LaVista Road; 678-987-1197. Marlow’s Tavern in Duluth is located at 1950 Satellite Boulevard; 770-622-2033.
