MLA Goes to Girls’ Night Out at Aqua blue

The ladies of MLA decided it was time to see what Girls' Night Out at Aqua blue was all about. We had a great time and enjoyed delicious food and drinks for just $5 each! Oh, and the bar was busy with other girls getting the same great deal. Check out the photos below and see all about our night at this Roswell hot spot!

Here is our order of crispy calamari. It was tasty and had quite a kick!

McCall and I enjoyed a $5 glass of the Mad Housewife Cabernet.

The Ariel sushi roll was a cool contrast to our spicy calamari.

This is Aqua blue's refreshing and fruity cocktail, the Five Alive.

We all enjoyed the live music too! Davis Sandling did great.

Marissa and Lindsay are all smiles after an evening of great deals and drinks!

Aqua blue’s Girls’ Night Out is every Wednesday at 5 p.m. The restaurant is located at 1564 Holcomb Bridge Road; 770-643-8886.

Aria Hosts Winemaker Dinner Featuring Schug Carneros Estates

On Monday, August 31, Aria will host a winemaker dinner featuring Schug Carneros Estate wines. The dinner is $85 per person, not including tax and gratuity, for a five-course dinner paired with five wines. The featured guest for the evening is Alex Schug, son of Winemaker Walter Schug. Seating is limited. Reservations are required and can be made by calling 404-233-7673. Aria is located at 490 East Paces Ferry Road.

Forget Your Lunch? WaterHaven Made a Lunch Box Just For You Today!

Join WaterHaven today for the Summer "Lunch Box" Series. Come out to Arts District Plaza at the intersection of Peachtree and 15th streets from 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. and purchase a WaterHaven boxed lunch ($5-$7 cash only) packed with a sandwich and other good stuff to munch as you listen to live music. The Midtown Alliance provides a complimentary drink with your box. Boxed lunches are sold on a first-come, first-served basis.

Tune In To Top Chef Las Vegas Wednesday Night!

I cannot hide my excitement for the upcoming season of Top Chef taking place in Las Vegas. In addition to it being my favorite show on television, the Atlanta representation this season has me on the edge of the couch. Our friend, Kevin Gillespie of Woodfire Grill, will be one of the 17 competing in quick-fires and elimination challenges beginning THIS WEDNESDAY at 9 p.m. Be sure and watch! If you tweet, use the hashtag #atltopchef when sharing your thoughts on the show and to give other Atlantans a heads up on the Top Chef viewing parties.

Don't Forget Taste of Asia at Aqua blue

Aqua blue took the Georgia Restaurant Association’s (GRA) Taste of Asia Week (Monday, August 10 – Sunday, August 16) and kicked it up a notch! They made it Taste of Asia MONTH by offering an Asian-inspired prix fixe menu throughout August. Check it out - three courses for $23 (plus tax and gratuity). First course options include smoked salmon with lemon square sushi, shrimp and kani egg drop soup, and Asian salad with plum dressing. The next course offers main dish selections such as miso glazed shiro maguro, pork pad Thai, and Chinese pepper steak. Lastly, sweet plate choices include a grasshopper sundae, ginger snap basket, and lychee orange drop donuts.

Enjoy!

Harry's Farmers Market Celebrates Julia Child's 97th Birthday

As featured in DailyCandy’s Weekend Guide, Harry’s Farmers Market and local chefs are coming together to celebrate Julia Child’s 97th birthday on Saturday, August 15. The day will include live cooking demonstrations and cookbook signings from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

The following chefs will perform live cooking demonstrations. The Union Restaurant Executive Chef Justin Balmes, Culinary Works Founder Gena Berry, 5 Seasons Brewing Executive Chef Dave Larkworthy, Whole Foods Market Regional Chef Butch Raphael, Andrea Thrailkill of Bella Cucina, former President of Les Dames d’Escoffier’s Atlanta Chapter Gloria Smiley and the current President Barb Pires.

Books signed will be Atlanta Cooks at Home: The Cookbook by Melissa Libby and Cooking with Les Dames d’Escoffier: At Home with the Women Who Shape the Way We Eat and Drink by Les Dames d’Escoffier.

Harry’s Farmers Market is located at 1180 Upper Hembree Road.

Get a Deal on Gluten-Free at Pizza Fusion

Gluten-free diners rejoice! Pizza Fusion, Buckhead's sustainably savvy pizzeria, is offering their gluten-free pizza options without any up-charge from 5 - 10 p.m. tonight. These special pizza pies have crusts made from garbanzo bean, fava bean and rice flours and are topped with your choice of gluten-free toppings. You can also grab a gluten-free Green's beer at half price. Don’t forget, Pizza Fusion has vegetarian and lactose-free options as well. Stop by and grab a pie!

Pizza Fusion: In the Aramore building at 2233 Peachtree Road, Suite M; 404-351-9334. Free parking is available behind the building

Keepin' the Atlanta Love Going

Atlanta has been on a roll lately. First it was three chefs on Top Chef Season 6. Then Hardy Wallace wins the coveted job at Murphy-Goode. Now we have a local guy, David Aferiat, trying to get on a winemaking show's second season. I'm feeling all patriotic about our fair city and want him to win. And I even met him this week and he's really nice! No voting required - he just needs eyeballs on this video. So take a look (or two). Tomorrow's the last day so don't dawdle!

Wine Rut Solved

If you are like me and in a wine rut, you are in luck! Several Atlanta area restaurants are hosting wine events this week that are sure to inspire a new love of wine.

Toulouse’s Wine Guy Michael Gallant guides tasters through a sampling of 15 French wines and palate cleansers on Sunday, August 16. The information-packed, two-hour tasting starts at 6:30 p.m. and costs $30 per person. Reserve your seat by calling 404-351-9533.Toulouse: 2293 Peachtree Road, NE; 404-351-9533

The new weekly wine tastings at Marlow's Tavern Kennesaw help put you at ease while you enjoy and learn about a variety of wines. The tastings take place from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Tuesday nights and cost $20 per person, including food and drink. Reserve your spot by calling 770-425-8777.Marlow's Tavern Kennesaw: 745 Chastain Road, NW, 770-425-8777.

This month Wolf Mountain Vineyards & Winery hosts its 7th Annual Regional Artisan Cheese Month and Vineyard Luncheon Buffet. The month of special cheese-pleasing Sunday buffets highlights how well regional cheeses pair with Wolf Mountain Vineyard's Georgia-grown and crafted estate wines. Sunday brunch is $30 per person plus tax and gratuity. Select and purchase Wolf Mountain wines separately by the glass or bottle. Make your reservations for either the 12:30 or 2:30 p.m. seating by calling 706-867-9862.
Wolf Mountain Vineyards & Winery: 180 Wolf Mountain Trail in Dahlonega; 706-867-9862.

Pacci recently introduced their “Four ‘n Pour” wine dinners which include four courses of Chef Keira Moritz’s cuisine paired with four wines for $35 per person. The new Midtown restaurant’s four-course wine dinners are offered Sunday through Thursday in addition to the regular menu. The August 17 through August 20 wine dinner menu will begin with a chef’s choice chicetti, an Italian amuse bouche. Appetizer options include calamari with spicy aioli, mushroom fettucini and grilled Caesar salad. Entrée choices include smoked shrimp with Anson Mills polenta, grain mustard and tomato; hanger steak with potato-pancetta hash; and breaded chicken served with summer panzanella salad and lemon butter. Dessert selections will be a buttermilk panna cotta with blueberries, anise seed, apricot and pistachio or seasonal galette served with vanilla gelato.
Pacci Ristorante: 866 West Peachtree Street, 678-412-2401

It's National S'mores Day!

Today we celebrate everyone's favorite campfire treat on National S'Mores Day. Yes, even the roasted snack shared during camp has a day to be honored. AltoRex Rooftop Lounge is celebrating by offering a free AltoS'more to each guest visiting tonight from 5 – 11 p.m.

Roaring fire pit at AltoRex

The neat and tidy adult rendition is on the menu at AltoRex and features layers of grahams, chocolate and marshmallow meringue cut into five chocolate-covered Rice Krispies treat squares. One free square per guest will be offered to enjoy around the outdoor fire pits on the rooftop to complete the nostalgic childhood experience.

Located atop Pacci Ristorante at 866 West Peachtree Street, NW in Midtown; 678-412-2402. Complimentary valet parking is available in front of Pacci Ristorante.

Tomatofest a Success!

Attack of the Killer Tomatofest at JCT. Kitchen & Bar this Sunday was a huge success! The winner for best tomato dish was Joe Truex of Repast, while the winner for the most refreshing libation was Lara Creasy of JCT.

Check out some of our blogger friends' coverage of the event: Savory Exposure and Winemaker's Guestbook. Last but not least, don't forget about Georgia Organic's Facebook page, complete with pictures of the whole day!

Did you know it was tomato season?

You'd have to be living under a rock not to know that now's the time to eat tomatoes! Everyone is blogging about them, putting photos of juicy blt's on their Facebook pages, and all the restaurants are doing tomato events. Is this the best time of the year or what?

LaTavola has been doing TomatoFeast for several years now. Chef Craig Richards always gets creative with the menu and it really should not be missed. But speaking of missing it, the specials end on Saturday, August 8.

They have a 3-course menu (with choices) that is $29 (a deal!) or you can just order what you want a la carte. I took a look and made my selections:

• Crispy Pig's Trotter, frisee and plum tomato preserve
• Bucatini, tomatoes, anchovies, mint, Parmesan, black pepper
• Vanilla Panna Cotta, tomato-pineapple jam

If only every week were tomato week!

Marlow's Tavern Midtown Turns Two

It's time to celebrate two years of good food and good times at Marlow's Tavern Midtown. On Friday, August 7 at 5 p.m. they are offering specials like $5 appetizers, $4 local microbrews and $5 wine drinks in honor of this anniversary. Marshall Seese will jam with live music from 8 p.m. until midnight. Be sure to scope out the drawing box and register to win a free dinner every week for one year! (Must be present to win. Prize consists of one $30 Marlow's Tavern gift card every week for one year. Only one gift card may be used in a seven-day period. Gratuity not included.)

Marlow's Tavern Midtown: 950 West Peachtree Street; 404-815-0323.

A Killer Dish

Gerry Klaskala of Aria will be one of the many well-known chefs creating a delicious tomato dish for JCT. Kitchen & Bar's Attack of the Killer Tomato Festival this Sunday. Here is a tasty sneak peek at what Klaskala will be whipping up:
Pan con tomate--oak grilled country bread rubbed with garlic, smashed with heirloom tomatoes slathered with freshly made ricotta with a drizzle of olive oil and sprinkled with a handful of Ambergris Cay sea salt.

Melissa's Famous Julia Child Story

In the late 80s I was the very young PR director at Hyatt Regency Ravinia charged with the task of setting up media interviews for Julia Child. She and Robert Mondavi were coming to Atlanta for an American Institute of Wine and Food (AIWF) event. My heart was pounding as I dialed her Boston telephone number but I had to giggle when she trilled "Hellooooooooooooooo" on the other end. She was so accommodating with my requests and agreed to spend one day with me during her visit, going from TV station to print media to radio station interviews. As you can guess, that was the easiest press trip I have ever booked as all the Atlanta media wanted to meet her!

Imagine my surprise when, after an early morning TV gig, she announced that she'd like to go have her hair done at Carter-Barnes at Phipps. I had booked her every minute of the day and now I had to reschedule everything, leaving us very little time for lunch. She left for her 2 hour wash-and-set and I started making phone calls! When she was finished we had a mere 30 minutes before our next appointment, a ribbon cutting at the Gwinnett Daily News test kitchen, something I could not change. I suggested a deli at Phipps but in her shrill voice she said, "I always find those sandwiches quite soggy, don't you?" Nervous, I agreed that maybe it wasn't the best but mentioned that we were on a bit of a schedule and needed to eat quickly. This is when she said, "Well, is there a McDonald's nearby?" I was horrified! But she assured me that would be perfect. "I like McDonald's. It's always consistent. Plus we can eat in the car." Oh my. So, I drove Julia Child through the McDonald's drive-thru, with her newly coiffed hair grazing the roof of my little Honda Civic. She had a cheeseburger, fries and a shake and insisted on paying for my meal too.

That afternoon, at our last appointment of the day, I was sitting in the sound booth of WSB radio station while the DJ interviewed Julia Child. I told my story to the sound guys who loved it and tipped off the DJ at the break. Her last question to Julia Child was, "So, Mrs. Child, in our city with all our fine, fine restaurants, please, tell us where you had lunch today." Without missing a beat, Julia proudly answered, "Ooooooh, McDonald's!

It's Tomato Time at JCT. Kitchen & Bar!

It’s prime time for tomatoes, and they'll be dangerously good this Sunday, August 9 at the first annual “Attack of the Killer Tomato Festival” at JCT. Kitchen & Bar. From 1 - 6 p.m., some of Atlanta’s best chefs and mixologists will pair up with local farmers to turn tomato varieties into tasty dishes and cocktails to benefit Georgia Organics. Guests will get to sample these tomato creations and see how their palates compare with those of the high-profile judges in attendance, including Andrew Knowlton of Bon Appetit, Donna Florio of Southern Living and Kate Krader of Food + Wine, who will be choosing a winning dish. Cold beer from 5 Seasons Brewing and free Bionade organic soda from Germany will also be available, along with live music from The Spazmatics.

JCT. Kitchen & Bar's Chef/Owner Ford Fry organized the event and gave us a sneak preview of the festivities this morning on WAGA-TV's Good Day Atlanta. Check out the video below to see how he takes tomatoes to the next level at JCT.


Tickets can be purchased at www.georgiaorganics.org ($50 per person/$45 for Georgia Organics’ members/$90 VIP package includes entry and access to an expanded open bar). Buy yours today!

JCT. Kitchen & Bar is located in Atlanta’s Westside Urban Market at 1198 Howell Mill Road, Suite 18; 404-355-2252.

The Ultimate Dinner and a Movie

As opposed to your typical date night out on the town, me and my hubby would sometimes rather have dinner and enjoy a flick in the comfort of our home. We don't have to worry about getting stuck in an awful seat in the back of the theatre, listening to the random conversation happening directly behind our heads or purchasing that $10 coke to go with that $15 bucket of popcorn. That's why we are taking full advantage of Blockbuster's Summer Escape Pass where you can check out one-out-at-a-time movies or games for $10 per week of seven consecutive days. And, Blockbuster has great deals on classic movie munchies: 3 for $3 of one Coke, one theater-sized candy and one popcorn; 5 for $5 of two Cokes, two theater candies and one popcorn; or 7 for $7 of two two-liter Cokes, three theater candies and two popcorns.

If you're looking to make it a complete date night, Morton's The Steakhouse has a convenient to-go menu. May we suggest the colossal shrimp cocktail or tuna tartare for an appetizer, the double-cut filet mignon or New York strip steak for an entrée and a slice of New York cheesecake or Key lime pie for dessert? These are just a handful of delicious dishes on their convenient take-out menu - swing by the restaurants to check out the full selection.

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

Sushi and Facebook Make a Good Combination

There is no denying that I love Facebook. It's like a one-stop site for me. I can keep in touch with friends, store pictures and even find what my favorite restaurant is serving for dinner on any given night. Yes, it can't be a one-stop site without food being involved. The newly opened Midtown restaurant RA Sushi has a page and it's a great resource to visit for photos, specials and upcoming events. If you aren't a fan already, check it out.

RA Sushi is located at 1010 Midtown at Peachtree and 12th Streets; 404-267-0114.

Marlow's Tavern Brings Boxed Lunches to Midtown Today

Are you feeling boxed in by cubicle walls? It's time to think outside the office box and think about... lunch boxes! Enjoy a boxed lunch from Marlow's Tavern Midtown and an outdoor concert during today's Midtown Alliance Summer Lunch Box series at Arts District Plaza at the intersection of Peachtree and 15th streets. Marlow's Tavern is preparing the boxed lunches ($5-$7) today, Wednesday, July 29. Midtown Alliance throws in a complimentary drink. The concert and lunch run from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m. Cash-only lunches are sold on a first-come, first-served basis, so it's better to be fashionably on time to this lunchtime event!

Marlow's Tavern Midtown: 950 West Peachtree Street; 404-815-0323.

Cocktails in the Garden with Aqua blue

Last night I finally checked out the popular "Cocktails in the Garden" event at the Atlanta Botanical Garden. Over 400 people were there to taste yummy food from Aqua blue, sip some wine or a cocktail, and stroll through the gardens and view the Henry Moore sculpture exhibit. It was tons of fun. Aqua blue's food was a huge hit. They served hangar steak on endive and these little crispy cups of tuna and avocado. YUM. Of course I wanted to leave enough for the other guests which required an after-event run to The Nook for totchos. Oy.

Cocktails in the Garden is every Thursday night from 6 - 10. It goes through September. The Moore exhibit goes through Oct. 31.

Taste & Tour of Cheshire Bridge 2009

Last night I attended the much-anticipated foodie event on Cheshire Bridge -- the Taste & Tour of Cheshire Bridge. Many of the restaurants offered tastings and tapas while high-end businesses offered product samples, discounts and raffles. Tickets were only $10 per person for a one-day pass to check out all the places participating on Cheshire Bridge Road. Proceeds went to benefit Open Hand Atlanta. Included in the fee was transportation provided by a trolley, but we decided to walk since it was such a nice night out. Food highlights from the evening included teriyaki shrimp and sushi rolls at Nakato, poached shrimp on toast points at Woodfire Grill, ricotta cheescake at Alfredo's and wonderul Ethiopian food at Amy's Ethiopian Cafe. I really liked this event because in addition to tasting food from the restaurants, I also got go inside the restaurants and check out the space. My only regret is that I didn't get there earlier enough to make it to all of the restaurants! And, my feet were a little too tired to make the trip down to Rain (new Thai restaurant). If you're counting pennies and looking for something fun to do - I highly recommend going. The last night for the tasting and tour is tonight - you can purchase tickets at Nakato as well as other restaurants.

Uncle Julio's is the Place to Celebrate National Tequila Day on July 24

This Friday, July 24, is National Tequila Day, and Uncle Julio's Casa Grande serves up 15 types of tequila and several different margaritas to help you celebrate. Among the restaurant's 14 locations nationwide, about 200,000 margaritas and tequila drinks are prepared each month. While purists can head for the straight tequilas, those fond of frozen varieties will want to try the signature Swirl (classic frozen margarita layered with homemade frozen sangria); the Baja Gold (margarita and Corona) or other classics such as the strawberry or passion fruit margaritas.

Uncle Julio’s managers attend tequila training in Mexico each fall, bringing home novel tequila ideas such as using it as a marinade in Uncle Julio’s chipotle borracho shrimp. Click here for the full recipe if you are celebrating at home.

Uncle Julio’s Casa Grande: 1860 Peachtree Road, NW: 404-350-6767.

Good Conscience Grocery Shopping

With the release of movies such as the new Food, Inc. and older books like Fast Food Nation consumers are more concerned than ever about the food they are putting in their body--and they should be! Movies and books such as these raise the question of not only where our protein or produce is coming from but how it was raised. This year Whole Foods Market tops the Humane Food Survey rankings of supermarkets compiled by The World Society for the Protection of Animals, the world's largest alliance of animal welfare organizations. Whole Foods Market, the nation's largest organic and natural grocery store, offers twice as many humanely labeled products per store as the next stores on the list. Shop at Whole Foods Markets and fill your grocery cart with good conscience!

Click here for a Whole Foods Market near you.

Don't Forget to Cast Your Vote!

It's time to speak your mind, Atlanta! Anyone and everyone can vote for their favorites in a big ballot of categories during Creative Loafing's "Best of Atlanta" selection election for 2009. Vote through July 31 then look for the results come September!

Celebrating One Year at Dogwood

I remember the first time I met Shane Touhy and Scott Black. Dogwood was just a gleam in their eyes at that point, but I knew it was going to be a wonderful restaurant. One year later and everyone knows! The one year anniversary dinner last night was fabulous! Five courses paired with Falcor wines, benefitting Breast Friends. What a celebration! My favorite dish was the smoked pheasant meatballs with apricot gastrique, black pepper and summer truffle aioli paired with 2005 Falcor Syrah. YUM. My friend's fave was the Coca-Cola marinated duck breast (above) with coffee cous cous, carrot marmalade and red wine aioli, served with the Falcor 2003 "Le Bijous" meritage. And of course our favorite bartender was Doc!

It was a rough year to open a restaurant, much less such a beautiful, ambitious one. These guys never wavered in their vision, no matter what. We're lucky to have them and I can't wait to celebrate more milestones with them.

Taste & Tour of Cheshire Bridge

The first Taste & Tour of Cheshire Bridge is this week! July 21 through the 23 celebrate the eclectic business mix on Cheshire Bridge along with a variety of ethnic restaurants. Marissa is going to check it out and make a stop by Woodfire Grill to see Bernard, Nick, Kevin and the crew, so stay tuned for a recap!

Some details: Cheshire Bridge restaurants and businesses have pulled together to bring the community a fun three-day event complete with trolleys going up and down Cheshire Bridge Road for a tour of this one-of-a-kind street. Between 6 p.m. and 10 p.m., July 21- 23, all participating restaurants will have tastings including appetizers, discounted prices/specials and all retail and specialty stores will have a raffle or silent auction.

Tickets are $15 for one evening or $30 for all 3 evenings and children seven and under are free. Tickets can be purchased here, in select stores or at the event. Stores with tickets: Antiques and Beyond, ChocoLate Coffee, Flora Dora, Las Margaritas, New Baby Products, Ninos Italian Restaurant, Rich Vision and Topaz Salon.

All proceeds will go to Open Hand.

Vote on Atlanta's Hottest Chef at Adventurous Tastes

Nothing is hotter than someone who knows their way around a kitchen. In case you haven't been peaking in the kitchen when dining in some of Atlanta's hotspots, Lindsey Zuckerman of the food blog Adventurous Tastes, pulled together a very attractive list of chefs from around the city.

And after two weeks of nomitations from readers, you can now vote on who you think should be crowned Atlanta's Hottest Chef. The list of chefs heating things up in the kitchen include:

Kozmo Gastropub's Chef Travis Collum
Shaun's Chef Shaun Doty
The Shed at Glenwood's Chef Lance Gummere
The Sun Dial's Chef Christian Messier
Pacci's Chef Keira Moritz
Holy Taco's Chef Robert Phalen
La Tavola's Chef Craig Richards
French American Brasserie's Chef Stephen Sharp


Voting ends July 24, so be sure and choose your favorite!

"Yelp Eats!" Menus at 13 Atlanta Restaurants Starts Monday

Even if you're not a Yelper, you'll want to chow down on these three-course prix fixe menus offered at 13 Atlanta restaurants for only $25 apiece during Yelp Eats! 2009. These special menus will only be offered from Monday, July 20 through Sunday, July 26. Ask for the “Yelp Eats” dinner menu for $25 per person, not including drinks, tax or gratuity. Our favorites on the list of participants Fifth Group Restaurants’ Ecco, La Tavola Trattoria, South City Kitchen Midtown and South City Kitchen Vinings as well as Dogwood, Toulouse and WaterHaven. Check out the complete list of restaurants, then wipe drool off face.

It's Time to Take a Chance at Pacci Ristorante

I've never been too lucky when it comes to gambling, but I think I'm willing to give it a shot at Pacci Ristorante in Midtown July 18 through August 30. They've got a good thing going! From 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays, guests ordering from Pacci's special Scramble Gamble breakfast menu have the possibility of enjoying their meal for FREE! At meal's end, a Pacci employee will flip a coin while the guest calls it, determining whether he or she must pay the bill or receive their Scramble Gamble menu items free of charge.

Chef Keira Moritz's special menu is loaded with good stuff, including a mushroom frittata with fresh goat cheese and seasonal mushrooms; two eggs with breakfast potatoes and toast; Midtown Bene - English muffin with prosciutto and hollandaise; Peachtree B&G - buttermilk biscuits and sausage gravy; Pacci house-made granola with fresh berries; salmon with capers, egg, onion, cream cheese and crostini; French toast with cinnamon butter, fresh berries and maple syrup; and ricotta pancakes with caramelized banana syrup ($8-$12). The Scramble Gamble does not include beverages or dishes from the restaurant's regular menus. Pacci Ristorante: 866 West Peachtree Street, NW: 678-412-2402.

Pass the Shrimp

Ever wonder where those delectable shrimp you indulge in came from and when they were caught? Whole Foods Market does--and they want to make sure they provide you with fresh, wild Georgia shrimp. That is why Whole Foods supports local fishermen such as Ambos Seafood in Savannah, GA. Click here to watch a video on how Ambos Seafood delivers fresh seafood daily.

Woodfire Grill Brings N. GA Wine Country to Cheshire Bridge

I dont' make it to the North Georgia wine vineyards as much as I should. We have a great wine country right in our backyard and sometimes forget to take advantage of it. Woodfire Grill will be hosting a wine tasting on Wednesday, July 15, to remind Atlantans of the great vino found in North Georgia.

In addition to the local wines, Woodfire Grill will also host winemakers from the area. Karl Boegner from Wolf Mountain Vineyards, Mary Ann Hardman from Persimmon Creek Vineyards, John and Martha Ezzard from Tiger Mountain Vineyards and Craig Kritzer from Frogtown Cellars will all be in attendance to talk to guests about their vineyards and wines. The tasting goes from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. and is $15 per person. Email nick@woodfiregrill.com or call 404-347-9055 for reservations.

Tastes:

Persimmon Creek Seyval Blanc

Persimmon Creek Cabernet Franc

Tiger Mountain TNT

Tiger Mountain Petit Manseng

Wolf Mountain Plenitude

Wolf Mountain Instinct

Frogtown Norton

Frogtown Touché

Cheers to drinking local!

Fifth Group Restaurants Puts Pricey Pours in Their Place and Offers Wines for Our Times

After a long day, everyone deserves a glass of wine - and we deserve to not have to pay an arm and a leg for one. Luckily, all five Fifth Group Restaurants (South City Kitchen Midtown, South City Kitchen Vinings, Ecco, La Tavola Trattoria and The Original El Taco) feel our pain and are offering a "Screw This!" promotion featuring five different high-quality, top-notch wines for only $5 a glass through July 30. The list includes Beringer Napa Valley Chardonnay; Cellar #8 Pinot Noir, California; Chateau St. Jean Fume Blanc, California; Campanile Pinot Grigio, Italy; and Souverain Merlot, Alexander Valley, California.

Ecco: 40 7th Street, NE; 404-347-9555.
La Tavola Trattoria: 992 Virginia Avenue, NE; 404-873-5430.
South City Kitchen Midtown: 1144 Crescent Avenue; 404-873-7358.
South City Kitchen Vinings: 1675 Cumberland Parkway; 770-435-0700.
The Original El Taco: 1186 North Highland Avenue, NE; 404-873-4656.

Aqua Blue Hosts Yelp Elite Group

Last night, the Yelp Elite group headed OTP to Aqua Blue in Roswell. The little treck outside the Perimeter seemed well worth it when I discovered it was also "Ladies Night" - $5 wine, mojitos and select apps at the bar. While I waited for Yelpers to arrive, I hung out with Elbie (bartender) who talked up all of the wonderful wines the restaurant had to offer.

Okay, so on to the event! Close to 90 people attended this outside event, so you can say the patio was packed! Aqua Blue offered Yelpers complimentary wine, beer and a Lake Lanier cocktail (quite tasty and refreshing). Two to three different types of freshly-made sushi was on the food table, along with fried calamari. Unfortunately, I was too full to stay for dinner, but I'll certainly make another trip up there sometime soon!

Atlanta Represents on Top Chef Las Vegas

Bravo TV has announced the contestants for season 6 of "Top Chef: Las Vegas" and you may recognize a few names. Three chefs from Atlanta will be on the show that premieres Wednesday, August 26 at 9 p.m. We are happy to share that our friend, Woodfire Grill's Executive Chef and Partner Kevin Gillespie will be joining 17 other contestants including Pura Vida's Hector Santiago and Eno's Eli Kirshtein on the show.

As a huge fan of the show, I will certainly be tuning in to watch the competition with host Padma Lakshmi alongside judges Tom Colicchio, Gail Simmons and Toby Young. Can't wait!

Whole Foods Market Eat Local Challenge

Are you ready to take on the Whole Foods Market Eat Local Challenge during the week of July 13 - 20? If you're up to the challenge, start checking out local foods from Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Alabama, Tennessee and some parts of Florida, homegrown local land. This is home for the foods you'll be eating next week if you accept the challenge. Not only will you be eating fresh foods that took a very short trip to your shopping bag, you'll be helping local farmers and economies as well. Register for the Eat Local Challenge on Saturday, July 11 at your local Whole Foods Market. At week's end, jot down your thoughts on the Whole Foods Market summary sheet, turn it in and you'll have a chance to win a $100 Whole Foods gift card!

Sushi and Drink Specials at RA

Tokyo Tea and Jade Lotus

Ever since my first visit to RA Sushi in Midtown, I have been craving more. Hearing about the half-priced select sushi and appetizers from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. every day was like music to my ears. But a visit isn't complete without a signature drink and the restaurant's Tokyo Tea, Rising Sun, Jade Lotus, and a Chang beer and sake bomb mix are $5 each. $4 buys select wine and margaritas; $3 snags lemon drops, mango martinis or Chang beer and $2 will get you PBR or hot sake. I know where the next post-work hangout will be.

Open everyday from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. with a late night menu available until midnight. 1010 Midtown at 1080 Peachtree Street; 404-267-0114.

Save The Date For Dogwood's Anniversary

Mark your calendars: Dogwood Owners Scott Black and Shane Touhy have planned a special five-course dinner to celebrate their Midtown restaurant’s first anniversary on July 20. Plan on savoring seasonally inspired Southern specialties along with award-winning wines from Napa’s Falcor Winery at the anniversary dinner party. A Falcor winemaker will be at the dinner to review wine and food pairings, and Dogwood will donate 10 percent of all proceeds from the event to Breast Friends, an Atlanta-based non-profit organization that provides support, practical assistance, information and resources for breast cancer patients and their loved ones. The party starts at 6:30 p.m. with cocktails at the bar followed by dinner at 7 p.m. Cost is $70 per person (plus tax and gratuity). Be sure to snag a seat by calling now for reservations. Touhy was named one of Atlanta’s Top 25 Chefs by The Sunday Paper and he was a guest chef at the renowned James Beard House in NYC this past April, so you won't want to miss out on his anniversary specials!

Dogwood is located in the Reynolds condominium building at 565 Peachtree Street, Suite A; 404-835-1410.

Almost Margarita Time!

I'd be hard pressed to come up with a day or time that's not right for a margarita, but hot July nights certainly beg for one, don't you think? My friend Katie sent me the following message and I just had to trust her on this. If you make it, let me know. Or better yet, call me and let me taste!!

"This is the BEST MARGARITA YOU WILL EVER HAVE…. Is at a restaurant called Lonesome Dove in Fort Worth, TX. Recipe below – I think we should try to make it one night. "

Jalapeno Cucumber Margarita
1- 1/2 oz Milagro Tequila
½ oz Cointreau
Fresh lime juice
2 slices fresh jalapenos
1 slice peeled cucumber
½ oz simple syrup
Muddle jalapenos and cucumber with simple syrup. Add ice, tequila, cointreau and lime juice. Shake and serve in cocktail glass.

Cheering on Hardy!

Murphy-Goode recently announced their top 50 for "A Really Goode Job" and we are estatic to say that Hardy from Dirty South Wine was one of the top 50 finalists chosen!

Now it is a waiting game to find out who is in the top 10 (announced July 7) and then the final pick (announced July 21). It is no secret who MLA will be cheering for--go Hardy!

4th of July Happenings Around Town

If you're looking to take a break from the kitchen this holiday weekend, here are a few places that will be serving out deals for the 4th of July.

Opening for the first time for the 4th, Aria is offering all Facebook fans a killer deal. Make reservations through OpenTable and put "Facebook" in the notes section or mention Facebook when phoning in and receive 50% off the food bill. The restaurant opens at 5:30 p.m. for dinner. 490 East Paces Ferry Road in Buckhead; 404-233-7673.

Stop by Aqua blue on Friday, July 3 and enjoy one free 1.5 pound steamed whole lobster appetizer with your dinner purchase. One freebie per table (tax and tip not included). Aqua blue will be open from 4-10 p.m.; mention this offer when making your reservation. 1564 Holcomb Bridge Road; 770-643-8886.

EVOS will be open serving healthy, slow-roasted steakburgers, Airfries, wraps, salads, and cool fruitshakes. And for the runners taking part in the Peachtree Road Race, EVOS is offering a FREE organic milk shake. Just drop by and show your t-shirt or bib number to receive the special offer. 5590 Roswell Road, NE at The Prado;404-252-4022.

All six Marlow's Tavern locations are open as usual on July 4th. 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.

The Nook, On Piedmont Park will open for brunch at 9 a.m. for runners and their fans to enjoy the terrific Piedmont Park view. 1144 Piedmont Avenue in Midtown; 404-745-9222.

Head over to Panera Bread bakery-cafes for your 4th of July picnic goodies. Each Atlanta location will be open on the holiday during regular business hours providing good eats for firework watchers. Go online to find out which of Atlanta's 21 Panera locations is closest to you.

Midtown's newly opened RA Sushi will be serving light, cool sushi and sashimi on the hot, hot July 4th. Plus, it's convenient for Peachtree Road Race fans and for those heading to view the Centennial Olympic Park fireworks. 1010 Midtown at 1080 Peachtree Street; 404-267-0114.

Toast to the holiday with a Swirl at Uncle Julio's Casa Grande. The restaurant's signature drink is the perfect blend of frozen margarita and sangria. 1860 Peachtree Road, NW; 404-350-6767. To go line: 404-974-2991.

Woodfire Grill will be offering a threee-course dinner for $35 per person from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. that includes Chef Kevin Gillespie's roasted whole hog with his own Terminus City barbeque recipe. A $5 suggested donation for the all-you-can-drink SweetWater beer, and proceeds will go to "Save the Hooch."1782 Cheshire Bridge Road; 404-347-9055.

Have a safe and happy holiday weekend!

The Team Celebrates a Wedding

We are all meeting up tomorrow at the Carl House to celebrate Caryn's wedding! This gives me an excuse to come to the city outside of my monthly trip to see the team. We've all been hearing about the planning and can't wait to see how it all works out. I am especially excited about the wedding cake. Oh, and the champagne. Cheers to Caryn and Jason!

Atlanta Summer Beer Fest at Marlow's Tavern in Midtown

On Saturday, June 27, a good time is brewing at Marlow's Tavern. Marlow's is the place for some ice cold hydration in the form of frosty beer during the Atlanta Summer Beer Fest, taking place inside and out at the restaurant's Midtown location. From 4 p.m. until midnight, festival goers can try beers from Atlanta Brewing Company, SweetWater Brewing Company and Terrapin Beer Company from Athens, Ga. Each brew is $4, and tasting-size beers are $2. Guests can cast their votes for the festival’s best beer. Admission is free, and live music plays from 4 p.m. until 2 a.m. Free parking is available behind Marlow's in the garage, which is one block from MARTA’s Midtown station.

Marlow’s Tavern Midtown: 950 West Peachtree Street; 404-815-0323.

Homemade Ice Cream For a Cause

Don't let this yummy opportunity melt away; come for the market and stay on! Slow Food Atlanta and the Peachtree Road Farmers Market are a dipping duo as they host their 2009 Ice Cream Competition on Saturday, June 27 from noon until 1 p.m. in the garden of the Cathedral of St. Philip on Peachtree Road. Taste all of the ice cream submissions and vote for your favorite ice cream, homemade the old-fashioned way with maybe, just maybe, a funky modern twist on flavors. Ice cream makers include amateurs and renowned local chefs, including Ron Eyester (Food 101 Morningside), Jake Rothschild (Jake's Ice Cream), Shaun Doty (Shaun's), Cynthia Wong (Cakes & Ale), Ford Fry (JCT. Kitchen & Bar) and Chrysta Umberger (Restaurant Eugene). Tickets are $10 per person (children under five are free) and will allow ticket holders to taste each flavor and submit a vote for the winner. Proceeds benefit Slow Food Atlanta and the Peachtree Road Farmers Market. Purchase tickets online or at the Peachtree Road Farmers Market Saturday morning. Interested ice cream makers should contact Judith Winfrey to complete registration. For more information about this event, email Meryl Arnett or call her at 770-503-6063.

P.S--Word on the street is that Meryl makes some tasty ice cream and will be competing; don't miss out!

It's Time to Toast Summer at Aqua blue

Celebrate the first real weekend of summer at Aqua blue's Summer Wine Festival starting at 6 p.m. this Friday night, June 26. Come try a selection of 12 new wines from the chic Roswell restaurant's Wine Spectator award-winning list, matched with bite-sized appetizers from their mouthwatering menu. While you're sipping and supping, enjoy the live music of Michael King starting at 7 p.m. and view artwork by Kimberly Ashman and photography by Ella de Amicis. $30 per person, not including tax or gratuity. Reservations are requested; call 770-643-8886. Aqua blue: 1564 Holcomb Bridge Road; 770-643-8886.

Ormsby's Is Where You'll Want to Hang Out

So, I'm not going to tell you how long I've known Warren Bruno. Let's just say I have more than one Aunt Charley's Peachtree Road Race t-shirt in my drawer.

If you don't remember Aunt Charley's, I'm sure you know Atkins Park. Warren is the guy who started both places, as he puts it, "as the kind of bar I wanted to hang out in." Lucky, lucky us that he's at it again. There's not much to tell yet, but Ormsby's is set to open in late September under Room & Board in the White Provision building.

Trust me that if Warren wants to hang out there, then so will you! If you ask him to describe it he'll say, "it's a good place to be." That sounds like my kind of place. No word yet on whether there will be t-shirts ....