I'll Party for Pinkberry Any Day

The time has finally come, Georgia's first Pinkberry is having their grand opening night event on Thursday, June 24! From 6 - 10 p.m. on Thursday, Pinkberry will be providing patrons with complimentary frozen yogurt. In these 90+ degree days, I'm more than willing to eat some frozen yogurt, especially with the array of toppings Pinkberry has to offer. FYI - I can't turn down putting Fruity Pebbles on mine.

If you're on foursquare then don't forget to sign in while at the Pinkberry Grand Opening Night Event! Then you'll be able to see fellow Pinkberry and frozen yogurt lovers like yourself and be able to unlock the coveted Swarm badge!

Also, if you sign up to be a Pinkberry Groupie, you'll receive news and discount offers. Even better, if you sign up before June 25, you will be entered to win a year of free Pinkberry! Still have a craving for more Pinkberry info? Make sure to follow Pinkberry on Twitter (@pinkberryswirl) and on Facebook.

See you guys at the party on Thursday night!

Pinkberry: 2937 Cobb Parkway, SE, Suite 102, in the Akers Mill Shopping Center; 770-661-2995.

You Gotta Go to Yelp Eats 2010!

Don’t miss the incredible deal on a three-course meal at some of Yelp’s highly rated restaurants (like Shaun's and Toulouse) at Yelp Eats 2010! Through Sunday, June 27, order from deluxe, prix fixe menus for just $25 per person (does not include tax, gratuity or additional items). Reservations and a request for the Yelp Eats 2010! menu are mandatory to get the special price. At Shaun's, choose local tomato gazpacho or organic iceberg wedge; Berkshire pork schnitzel or Georgia shrimp and grits; and vanilla bean cheesecake or sticky toffee pudding. At Toulouse, choose baked goat cheese wrapped in phyllo dough or cold strawberry soup; wild mushroom ravioli or seared scallops in a rosemary-citrus reduction or buffalo meatloaf; flourless chocolate cake or white chocolate banana bread pudding.

Shaun's: 1029 Edgewood Avenue, NE; 404-577-4358.
Toulouse: 2293 Peachtree Road, NE; 404-351-9533.

Marlow's Tavern Midtown + Mondays = Secret Sign Time

 Another Monday, another secret sign on the loose in Midtown! 

Find your way with our clue, snap a picture with the secret sign (as seen above) and email it to marlowstavernatlanta@gmail.com.  If you’re FIRST, you could win a free burger and a beer at Marlow’s Tavern - Midtown this week!  Here’s your clue – get to snapping!

If you’re looking for a place to rest your head on an overnight stay in Midtown and are the kind of person who likes art more, this hotel might be up your alley!  Look out for a post outside this landmark inn and you'll find your secret sign!

It's Follow Friday - Meet Our Tweep of the Week @SilentClark

"When I hand people the card that says, "I Can't Talk," a lot of people mistake the meaning of the statement. They think that I have a disability."  Clark Harris (aka @SilentClark) is on a mission to silence cancer -- by speaking solely through the social media outlets of Twitter and blogging.  He began his "SMX" (social media experiment) in May as a way to raise awareness and money for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society in memory of his mother.  He's continuing his I Can Talk, I Just Chose Not To drive through June. Time and time again, actions speak volumes louder than words.  Now, take action.

Get to know Julia LeRoy

This is Julia LeRoy. She's going to be a famous chef. You know we wouldn't steer you wrong! Why not be a real culinary insider and meet her now before she has an entourage and bouncers to keep you away? You can do just that tomorrow at the Piedmont Park Green Market.

The up 'n coming LeRoy knows Atlanta's best restaurant kitchens (she's worked in some of them), and she's equally comfy adding her own touch to an ingredient-splattered church cookbook propped up against a mixing bowl in her home kitchen. The Culinary Institute of America - NY graduate has roots in Guenter Seeger's Dining Room at The Ritz-Carlton. Perhaps you heard about her "Locavore Mondays" that supported local farmers, sustainability and creative sustenance for Atlanta diners. Cooking at the Piedmont Park Green Market will be right up her garden row!

See Julia from 11 a.m. - noon under the patio at the Community Center. The Green Market is held every Saturday morning, May 1 through December 11, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Piedmont Park's 12th Street entrance gate.

Chill that grill and let someone else cook for Father’s Day

We know Mother’s Day gets all the attention (we love our mommies!), but don’t forget about dear old Dad this Sunday for Father’s Day! There are lots of great options to treat your pops to an unforgettable meal around town.

Roswell area dads who appreciate a hearty prime rib will want to head straight to Aqua blue for their prime rib special. Dad can fill up a 10 oz. prime rib with baked potato for $25, and as an extra treat, a complimentary lobster tai!

La Tavola Trattoria, South City Kitchen Midtown and South City Kitchen Vinings of Fifth Group Restaurants® are all open during normal hours for brunch and dinner on Father's Day. Turn in to La Tavola Trattoria for authentic Italian cuisine, including a hefty man-sized serving of lasagna for $10. Mosey over to either South City Kitchen location for Southern favorites.


Morton's The Steakhouse fills dad up with a delicious $69 dinner menu that includes a choice of baked five-onion soup, Caesar salad or center-cut iceberg salad; a choice of double-cut filet mignon, signature-cut New York Strip, broiled salmon fillet or Chicken Christopher; choice of vegetable or potato side dish; and a choice of carrot cake or hot chocolate cake for dessert.

Dads who appreciate great beer will enjoy Ormsby's special four-course lunch with specialty beer pairing. Tell dad to put on his game face and hunker down for bocce ball, darts, pool, skee ball and shuffleboard at the much-loved West Midtown pub.

Surprise dad with Father's Day brunch or dinner at all three of the popular Ray's Restaurants. From 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Ray's on the River is offering a Father's Day brunch buffet priced at $34.95 for adults and $16.95 for children ages five to 10. Ray's Killer Creek is offering brunch priced at $29.95 for adults and $12.95 for children ages five to 10 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Ray's in the City is offering brunch priced at $29.95 for adults and $12.95 for children ages five to 10 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. All three locations are serving the regular dinner menu from 5 - 8 p.m.

Uncle Julio's Fine Mexican Food honors dads with the Plato de Padre ($29.95), filled with succulent cold-water lobster tail, mesquite-grilled carne asada, a side of freshly made guacamole, pico de gallo, Mexican rice and frijoles a la charra, available through Sunday, June 20. Toast dad with a couple of Uncle Julio's signature Swirl margaritas made with frozen margarita and homemade frozen sangria or one of the many Mexican beers at the bar.

Wolf Mountain Vineyards & Winery in Dahlonega has a man-friendly brunch menu planned for its Eighth Annual Father's Day Gourmet BBQ. The one-day celebration menu features smoked brisket, barbeque chicken, baby back ribs, Southern-style corn pudding and fried mac 'n cheese with tomato basil cream. $30 per person (plus tax and gratuity); wine by the glass and bottle also are available at an additional cost. Call now to reserve your place at the 12:30 p.m. or 2:30 p.m. Father's Day brunch seatings.

Sushi Gets its Own International Day

Let it be known to all sushi lovers that tomorrow, Friday, June 18, is International Sushi Day. What better way to celebrate International Sushi Day in Midtown then by going to RA Sushi. If you "like" the Midtown hot spot for sushi, fusion and drinks on Facebook, visit the RA Sushi Facebook page on International Sushi Day and print out a special offer good for one complimentary Tootsy Maki to be enjoyed that day.

The complimentary Tootsy Maki Facebook coupon must be printed and redeemed on June 18 and is valid at the Midtown RA Sushi. The Tootsy Maki ($8.25) brings together kani kama crab mix, shrimp and cucumber in a roll and topping it with crunchy tempura bits and a drizzle of sweet eel sauce.

Facebook "Like" + Free Tootsy Maki = International Sushi Day at RA Sushi

RA Sushi: 1080 Peachtree Street at 1010 Midtown; 404-267-0114.

A new movie shows a peek inside a changing family- and some delicious food too!

Magnolia Pictures is coming out with a film this month called I AM LOVE. The film, which takes place in Italy, centers on the Recchi family and it’s adjustments after the family Patriarch, names his successor to his colossal industrial company. He shocks everyone and decides to split the power between his own son and his grandson.

The delectable foods as well as the controversy come into play when the grandson dreams of opening a restaurant. However, Tancredi, the son, goes into business with a renowned chef, Antonio. Tancredi’s wife, Emma, played by Tilda Swinton, falls madly in love with Antonio. Seeing as how the film takes place in Italy, the food seen in the film is mainly Italian. This dish called is just one of the exquisite entrées featured in the film. The major theme seen in the movie is essentially the power of food and how its essence can bring people together. The food also symbolizes the intimacy between the art of cooking and the characters. You can watch the trailer here.

Aside from peering inside a family going through an array of changes, the film focuses on cuisine and how the love of food can bring people from different backgrounds, ethnicities, races etc. together. So for all you foodies out there, be sure to check out this film if you love good food and a good movie.

Midtown Summer Lunch Box Series

Thank goodness for a little bit of rain last night, huh? Take advantage of the slightly cooler weather with an outdoor lunch break!

Photo From Atlanta Intown Paper

All summer The Midtown Alliance is hosting their Summer Lunch Box Series featuring delicious lunches for sale from some of Midtown's most delish restaurants. Today's lunch is provided by Spice Market and the menu includes a choice of salmon salad with Boston lettuce and candied ginger dressing ($7), Vietnamese chicken sandwich ($7), or chilled sesame noodle salad (vegetarian option $7). All lunches are served with a homemade cookie and a choice of beverage. Lunch is offered from 11:30 - 2 p.m. in the Arts District Plaza (at the corner of Peachtree and 15th Street).

A DJ spinning tunes and colorful outdoor tables make this lunch break a must-do for all Midtowners. Hope to see you there!

We Want YOU to Salute Summer Grilling at Marlow's Tavern

Starting today, all six locations of Marlow’s Tavern are offering a star-spangled "Red, White and Brew" menu for the next six weeks that you won’t want to miss. The limited time menu is filled with all-American dishes like fiery deviled eggs; a watermelon, feta and arugula salad; chili-slathered corn on the cob; a backyard “brat” melt with grilled beer bratwurst; honey glazed grilled chicken; sweet berry shortcake; and a “summertime” watermelon margarita ($3-$12). These items are only available until July 26, so you’ll want to get in as much gobbling as you can before then (trust us, we would have given anything for just one more day of Bayou Burgers last time Marlow’s offered a special, limited time only menu).

There’s also something special happening for those of you who prefer to do your grilling at home. During this "Red, White and Brew" celebration, Marlow’s is hosting a recipe contest and the top prize is a Big Green Egg! Guests can submit recipes for their own signature grilled dishes online at www.marlowstavern.com or fill out an entry form at one of the six tavern locations through July 27. Executive Chef/Owner John Metz will review all the recipes and determine the winners by August 15. The winner gets a Big Green Egg and the honor of having their recipe featured on Marlow's fall/winter menu. Proceeds from the sale of the winning recipe will be donated in the winner's name to Special Olympics Georgia. The second-place winner takes home a $50 Marlow's Tavern gift card, and the third-place winner receives a Marlow's Tavern "Red, White and Brew" limited-edition t-shirt.

Marlow's Tavern Locations: 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.

Ray’s Demos and Deals

Ray’s Restaurants has some exciting events going on this summer starting with a cooking demo from Ray’s Killer Creek Chef Daniel Frier at the Riverside Farmers Market on Saturday, June 19. The market is not actually alongside the river anymore; this season it’s grown and moved to Roswell City Hall. See what Frier is cooking up to go with the market’s Georgia-grown produce and products and live music. Open Saturdays from 8 a.m. until noon through October 30, rain or shine! Riverside Farmers Market: 38 Hill Street; 404-613-7670.

Next up is the restaurant group’s new gift card special. From now until July 31, Ray’s Restaurants is throwing in an extra 20 percent for you with any Ray’s gift card purchase through July 31. Give a gift card for Father’s Day, a wedding or anniversary present or simply plan ahead for yourself. The 20 percent bonus can be added to same card or can be put on a separate card for another occasion. The only stipulation is that you cannot use the gift card on the same day it is purchased.

Ray’s on the River: 6700 Powers Ferry Road; 770-955-1187.
Ray’s Killer Creek: 1700 Mansell Road, Alpharetta; 770-649-0064.
Ray’s in the City: 240 Peachtree Street, NW; 404-524-9224.

Secret, Secret – We’ve Got a Secret! Play Marlow’s Tavern’s Secret Sign Contest for a Delicious Reward

Looking for a sign to point you towards your next dining destination?  How about a SECRET sign to lead you to a FREE burger and beer? 

To celebrate the beginning of their Red, White & Brew menu tomorrow, Marlow’s Tavern has hidden a poster in Midtown – the first person to snap a picture of themselves by the poster (just like the picture above) and email it to marlowstavernatlanta@gmail.com will receive a free burger and beer!

Now, we wouldn’t just send you out into the Midtown wilderness without a clue, would we?  Of course not! 

Steer yourself in the direction of where Midtown’s finest and smartest technical students go to get their literary fix, and perhaps a jersey or two.  A billboard outside the back door there holds your shot at free burger and beer!

Get to snapping, so you can get to snacking at Marlow’s!  We’ll be hiding flyers over the next few weeks and sending out clues, so stay tuned.  If you are the first fan to submit photos of yourself next to all four posters, you’ll win the grand prize – burgers & beer for 10 at Marlow’s Tavern!!  It’s going to be a fun, hot, delicious summer with Red, White & Brew!

World Cup Madness – Let the International Fun Begin

It’s hard not to be infected with World Cup Fever – it’s sweeping Atlanta as the games begin today! There are lots of great spots around town to watch your favorite countries and wave your flag, but both Marlow’s and Ormsby’s are making it even more enticing to plop down in your proud country colors for a brew and the big games!

Wherever your neighborhood is, there is sure to be a Marlow’s Tavern nearby and there’s lots of great reasons to stop by! From 2 to 5 p.m. during the big game, you can get half price appetizers and be entered to win a gift card. Social media junkie? Check-in on Foursquare and get even greater rewards – 20% off your bill when you show your server your check-in! Sweet!

You already know Ormsby’s for all the fun games like bocce ball and skeeball. Now you can add soccer to the mix of sports! Ormsby’s is participating in the Atlanta International Soccer Fest 2010 with other area venues all donating a segment of profits to benefit SOS Children’s Villages. For example, when you order the $10 Paulaner beer and brat special, 15% of the brat’s proceeds will go towards this great cause. This will be going on the entire month during the World Cup, so stop by anytime to watch and help this worthy cause.

Whoever you’re rooting for, raise your vuvuzela and cheer your loudest cheer this weekend! Viva la World Cup!

It’s Follow Friday – Meet Our Tweep of the Week @MySkinConcierge

Your epidermis is showing, and Ava @MySkinConcierge knows how to treat it right.  She admits she's obsessed with skincare and trying new products.  Her obsession could be a time and money saver for you as she digs down deep.  Ava pores over more than skin.  The magazine travel and feature writer covers spas, travel and fun stuff with more details on her blog. 

Quality Wines & Great Values at Toulouse

If you're like me, you enjoy a good glass of wine. Those glasses of wine start adding up on the wallet, though. Luckily, Toulouse Restaurant is having their monthly wine tasting on Sunday, June 13 a 6:30 p.m. and is featuring wine values. There's no need to have to resort to a box of Franzia, because Toulouse will feature at least 15 wines to be tasted that are of great quality and value. There will also be light appetizers and the wine tasting is $35 per person. Toulouse’s wine tastings are very popular, and seats for this informative night are sure to go fast. Reserve a spot by calling 404-351-9533.

Toulouse: 2293 Peachtree Road, NE, Suite B; 404-351-9533.

YEAH! Burger Opens Tomorrow

Tomorrow is the day - FINALLY! I have been patiently waiting to try out Chef Shaun Doty's new burger joint and after pouring over the menu I already know what I'm trying first - a White Oak Pastures local beef patty on a whole wheat bun (I heard the buns are so light they actually bounce in your mouth. That is a quote.) with YEAH! sauce. I'm also saving room for a side of fifty-fifty (fries AND onion rings) and a peanut butter cup Concrete (a Concrete is very similar to Dairy Queen's Blizzards, and as a girl who can't pass a Dairy Queen without stopping for a fix, you can imagine I'm pretty excited...).

As I leave you anxiously waiting for lunchtime tomorrow, I thought I would share a few photos from Chef Doty's appearance on Good Day Atlanta this morning. As Good Day host Suchita Vadlamani said, "you can taste the love."

Toasting Up Some Artsy Fun for a Good Cause - The Bread Art Project

Like to play with your food? We do! Thanks to the internet, Share Our Strength and the Grain Foods Foundation, now you can play with your food AND help a great cause.

The non-profit Grain Foods Foundation created The Bread Art Project in 2009 to help create awareness of the growing hunger problem in our country. Last year alone, visitors to the site created more than 25,000 pieces of Bread Art; they’re hoping to reach their goal of 50,000 this year! For each piece of art created and posted, the Grain Foods Foundation will donate $1 to Share Our Strength. Get this - $1 can help provide THREE nutritious meals to a hungry child. Pretty amazing!

We had the pleasure of heading over to the Atlanta Community Food Bank this morning for a special presentation by Next Food Network Star Melissa d’Arabian, who filled us in about how the website can help fight hunger with your whole grain artworks.

She also shared some very fun ways to incorporate whole grain foods into your family’s diet with some easy, affordable recipes. Lucky for us some of these treats were there for us to try for ourselves! We’ve posted a recipe for one of her easy and yummy sandwiches that we tried below.

Feeling ready to get toasty yourself? Head over to The Bread Art Project, click Workshops and get creative! They’re up to 46,000 already, so let’s help them reach their goal of 50,000 pieces of toast and $50,000 for Share Our Strength!

Crispy Ham, Tomato and Mozzarella Sandwich
Recipe developed by Melissa d’Arabian for the Grain Foods Foundation
2 T olive oil plus 1 teaspoon, divided
1 t dried basil
1 garlic clove, peeled and smashed
4 thin slices ham
4 slices sandwich bread
4 slices mozzarella cheese
½ tomato, thinly sliced
Salt and pepper

In a small bowl, mix 2 T of the olive oil, basil, smashed garlic clove and salt and pepper with a
fork to release flavors and let sit while preparing the rest of the sandwich (at least five minutes).
In a small sauté pan, cook the ham in a teaspoon of olive oil over medium heat 2-3 minutes per
side, or until beginning to crisp. Toast the bread. Lay the cheese on one slice of the toast and
brush generously with the flavored olive oil, using a pastry brush. Add the ham, and top with
tomatoes. Brush the tomatoes with the olive oil, and top with the second piece of toast. Repeat
for the second sandwich.
Yield: 2 servings
Prep time: 10 minutes
Ease of preparation: Easy

South City Kitchen Vinings Offers a Smokin' Good Time

South City Kitchen Vinings' annual Blues, Brews & BBQ event is back, which means it's time for your dose of live music, finger lickin' food, draft beer and drink specials. From Thursday, June 10 through Sunday, June 13, the Vinings restaurant will be serving up plates of Texas-style smoked beef brisket, chopped smoked pork butt, sweet tea-brined smoked half-chicken and half-racks of St. Louis-style spare ribs ($7-$8). Guests who just can't decide can opt for a combo Q plate for $15. Smoked meat plates come with Texas toast, house pickles and three BBQ sauces. Diners can also choose special appetizers, desserts and side items to complete their meal while listening to blues on the patio.

For reservations, call 770-435-0700 or book online .

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

It’s Time to Truly Experience Midtown

Don’t miss all the excitement at the "Experience Life on the Midtown Mile" event this Thursday, June 10 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. During this time, event attendees can truly take in the gorgeous city skyline from the 1010 Midtown building while enjoying tastes from many of Midtown's favorite dining spots like South City Kitchen Midtown, RA Sushi and Marlow's Tavern-Midtown. Musician Troy Cono will be providing the sweet summertime tunes. Ticket proceeds benefit the Piedmont Park Conservancy. Purchase your tickets for $10 each when you RSVP to http://lifeonthemidtownmile.eventbrite.com/.

Pacci in the Park... Piedmont Park Green Market, that is

Pacci Ristorante is one cool place to dine.  As much as she loves her Pacci kitchen, Pacci Executive Chef Keira Moritz enjoys cooking al fresco whenever she gets a chance.  Her opportunity arises on Saturday, June 5 as she leads the Piedmont Park Green Market cooking demonstration from 11 a.m. until noon under the patio at the Community Center.  Come see what garden-fresh goodies she's picking up and tossing around, then head over to nearby Pacci for lunch!

IT’S FOLLOW FRIDAY – MEET OUR TWEEP OF THE WEEK @SAVORYEXPOSURE

Lights, camera, action! Atlanta blogger and gifted photographer Broderick exposes a gamut of fabulous foodie events, luscious links, gotta-eats and food photos on Savory Exposure. Time constraints? Make sure to stay exposed via his Twitter account!

Summer + Festival = SummerFest

In my mind, Memorial Day meant the beginning of summer, and summer means it's festival season! I'll be getting mine started this weekend at theVirginia Highland 2010 Summerfest, which is "Celebrating 27 Years of Art, Food & Fun" on Friday, June 4 through Sunday, June 6. On Friday night, impersonate your favorite movie character and be a part of the opening parade. Register online, then be at the start, Inman Hardware at Drewry and North Highland at 6 p.m. The parade ends up at the Inman Park field for a community/volunteers dinner with prizes, an outdoor movie and sweet dessert treats courtesy of La Tavola Trattoria and The Original El Taco.

So go out, enjoy festival season and once you've had too much sun and fun, pull up a seat at Atkins Park Tavern on Friday, Saturday or Sunday for appetizers, ice cold brews and cocktails, wine and great grub.


Atkins Park Tavern - Virginia Highland: 794 North Highland Avenue; 404 -876-7249.
La Tavola Trattoria: 992 Virginia Ave, NE; 404-873-5430.
The Original El Taco: 1186 North Highland Avenue, NE; 404-873-4656.

Take Time To Toast Tuscany at Wolf Mountain Vineyards & Winery

Yesterday, I got the chance to visit the beautiful Wolf Mountain Vineyards & Winery in Dahlonega. Even after a torrential thunderstorm, the winery was such a peaceful and pleasant sight. You can experience this breathtaking travel destination for yourself by making reservations for Wolf Mountain’s upcoming "Tribute to Tuscany" Sunday brunch event. Throughout June, the winery is offering delicious dishes such as Mediterranean salad tossed in white balsamic vinaigrette; house-made minestrone soup; roasted red pepper and olive tapenade; tomato, basil and mozzarella tapenade; garlic bread and bruschetta; prosciutto eggs Benedict; chicken Marsala; linguine with clam sauce; mini vegetable stromboli with pomodoro sauce; and a carving station with leg of lamb. Save room for tempting desserts of tiramisu trifle, mini Key lime tarts and cheesecakes and chocolate-covered strawberries. Brunch is $30 per person (plus tax and gratuity) and wine by the glass or bottle is also available at an additional cost. Brunch is offered every Sunday afternoon at 12:30 p.m. and 2:30 p.m.

On Father's Day, June 20, Wolf Mountain Vineyards puts Tuscany on hold to honor fathers with its 8th Annual Father's Day Gourmet BBQ.

Wolf Mountain Vineyards & Winery: 180 Wolf Mountain Trail in Dahlonega; 706-867-9862

Living La Vida Lobster at Aqua blue!

Beginning today, Maine lobster is the main event at Aqua blue in Roswell. The restaurant is offering a special Tailapalooza menu through July 3, so guests can get their fill of cuisine made with this tasty crustacean. From roast lobster bisque with a Maine lobster dumpling ($6) to the two tail combo served with house-made lobster mac 'n cheese, lemon-garlic butter, summer vegetable sauté and lobster knuckle sauce ($35), lobster leads the pack of delicious dishes. To wash it all down, try a mango tango lemonade with Absolut Mango and a splash of Watermelon Pucker, Villa Sandi prosecco or William Hill Chardonnay, all $7 a glass.

Aqua blue: 1564 Holcomb Bridge Road in Roswell; 770-643-8886.

Memorial Day Eats

Picnic rained out? Need to get away from house guests? Just looking for some good eats on Memorial Day? We've pulled a list of some of our favorites to save you the trouble of calling around. Have a wonderful holiday!

• Ray's in the City will be open for dinner from 5 - 9 p.m., serving fine American fare and some of the best meats and seafood in town. It's located downtown and could be a nice stop if you're going to one of the attractions or just stopping in on your way home from the airport.


• Marlow's Tavern, with six locations convenient to wherever you may be spending Memorial Day, will be open serving mouthwatering American Tavern fare in a comfortable neighborhood setting. Nothing says "work-free Monday" like Kettle Chips and a cold beer.


• If you're in the mood for some homemade pasta and a nice glass of Chianti, head over to La Tavola for a quality visit with Chef Craig Richards. Open regular hours.


• For a memorable margarita and some fish tacos, you'll need to get to The Original El Taco in the Highlands pronto. Open regular hours on Monday.


• Tired of hamburgers and hotdogs? Take a virtual trip to the Mediterranean and dine at Ecco. We recommend the goat cheese balls drizzled with honey. Open regular hours.


• Midtown residents will be happy to know that they can celebrate this special day nearby at RA Sushi. There are always great specials and you know you'll have fun.


• Pretend you're in Southeast Asia and spice up your holiday at Spice Market. Open all day.


• Looking for a casual and delicious finale to the weekend? Look no further than beloved tavern Atkins Park. Both locations (Smyrna and Virginia Highlands) are open.


• Start a new Memorial Day tradition of bocce, darts, and skee ball at Ormsby's. More fun than a picnic - and no ants!


• Tell the bartender that you'll have a Swirl and your 3-day weekend is complete at Uncle Julio's (Perimeter and Peachtree Road). Trust me on this one.
  
  

Nicky’s Week – The Fun Begins at RA Sushi

RA Sushi, Midtown's favorite spot for sushi, sashimi, fusion and fun-loving lounge action, will join the other 24 RA Sushi's across the nation for Nicky's Week, May 30-June 5.  This is the sixth year the restaurants have designated a week where proceeds from the sales of various beverages and menu items will go straight to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.  

Nicky's Week was developed in memory of longtime St. Jude patient and 13-year-old Nicky Mailliard of Scottsdale, Ariz., who lost a long fight against brain cancer in 2005. Nicky was the nephew of one of RA Sushi's founders.  Since its start, yearly Nicky's Weeks have brought more than $500,000 to St. Jude's.  Guests who chow on edamame, tootsy maki, shrimp nigiri, pork gyoza, tuna tataki and chicken yakitori, and those who tilt back FIJI, Red Bull and Sugar Free Red Bull, The Republic of Tea, and other select beverages will be helping St. Jude's provide healthcare and continue research to help children from across the U.S. and around the world fight cancer and other life-threatening diseases. 

It’s Follow Friday – Meet Our Tweep of the Week @ksolo22

For Kisha Solomon (@ksolo22), the essence of living the good life is doing something you love. She's made this a serious pursuit...yet not so serious that she can't have a little fun along the way. The witty and wisecracking ksolo22 writes about food, travel, art, cultural events, recipes and (drum roll), craft beer. What a line up! Read all on her blog BonVivant Online or skim the Twitter short version.

Party like it's 1965 with the Atlanta Classics Bar Tour!

Atkins Park circa 1922

You remember all those boring field trips to ancient, historical, dusty places when you were a kid? History, who needs it, right? You’re all about the present, man! Well, listen up, because we’re about to show you that history can be fun!

Pubs and taverns have long been American gathering places, from the days of our nation's founding fathers to the celebratory toasts of victories. History and beer mugs come together again over Memorial Day weekend at the 2nd Annual Virginia Highland's Classic Bar Tour from 1 - 6 p.m. on Saturday, May 29. Gallivant through the in-town neighborhood's oldest and wisest bars at this event sponsored by Miller High Life and benefiting The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. You’ll get the chance to really soak in history when you’re having fun at Atkins Park Tavern (originally a 1922 deli; tavern in 1983), George's Restaurant and Bar (1961), Limerick Junction Irish Pub (1988), Manuel's Tavern (1956) and Moe's & Joe's Tavern (1947)!

You can visit each for food, adult beverages, prizes and a historic peek at Atlanta's oldest neighborhood bar scene along North Highland Avenue. Tickets are $10 per person in advance and $20 at the door and cover admission, t-shirt and drink refills at a discounted price at participating bars. Stops also will offer menu specials priced the same as they were back in the 1960s.

See? Knowledge is power. And fun. Now to make it even more fun, we have TWO SETS of tickets to give away. Woohoo! To win, email a picture of yourself at any of the fine establishments taking part in this event and we’ll pick two at random. We’ll show your smiling mug on our site and send you packing to the Bar Tour with free tickets!

I'll take my cocktails in the garden please

Looking for a reason to make it out to the Atlanta Botanical Garden? Have no fear, Atlanta Dish is here to provide such reasons. Pacci Ristorante will be at the Atlanta Botanical Garden for Thursday Night Canopy & Cocktails. Enjoy an evening of complimentary Italian bites and light appetizers from Pacci while enjoying the Atlanta views from the Canopy Walk.

So pick up a cocktail at the full cash bar and relax under the mesmerizing spell of falling water in Cascades Garden or DJ tunes from 6 - 10 p.m. tonight, May 27. Just consider it a head start to your Memorial Day weekend. Guests $15; free for Garden members.

Sex and the City 2 + $5 Martinis = Perfect Girls' Night Out!

We may be in the Big Peach instead of the Big Apple, but that doesn’t mean your inner Carrie, Samantha, Miranda and Charlotte can’t come out to celebrate the release of the newest Sex and the City movie tonight! Heading to the movie theatre? Steer your stilettos to Ray’s Killer Creek tonight for a martini for just $5 to make the evening even more fabulous!
Stay traditional like Charlotte with a Cosmo (White Cranberry, Absolut Citron, Triple Sec) or be sensible like Miranda with The Big Apple (Absolut, Apple Schnapps). Commit like Carrie to new concoctions like the Mr. Big (Absolut, Olive Juice, Blue Cheese Olives), Sex and the City (Absolut, Peach Schnapps, Orange & Cranberry), or Blue City Lights (Absolut, Blue Curacao, Pineapple). Feeling flirty like Samantha? Indulge in a Flirtini (Absolut, Champagne, Pineapple) or Tartini (Absolut Raspberry, Chambord, Cranberry & Lime).
What better way to kick off a chic evening out with your girls to see the summer’s first big movie? Like many summer romances, these martini deals are fleeting, so make sure to stop by before this Sunday!

Grocery Shop with A Gourmet!

Still haven't had a chance to meet Woodfire Grill Executive Chef/Partner and "Top Chef" star Kevin Gillespie in person? Well, now is your chance!!

This week, he's giving a cooking demo at the Apron's Cooking School in Publix at Alpharetta Commons. Gillespie will share how to make a savory and sweet summer supper at 7 p.m. on Friday, May 28. His menu is made up of four simple courses: sweet corn soup with almond butter, watermelon and lime zest; yogurt-marinated skirt steak with roasted garlic and cilantro puree; skillet-roasted green onion, carrots and small tomatoes with green chili sauce; and strawberry and banana pudding.

For those trekking OTP just for Kevin, Publix at Alpharetta Commons is located at 4305 State Bridge Road. Grab your grocery cart and your camera and go wild!

Bar Hop for a Good Cause!

Looking for things to fill up your long weekend? At the very least, you can fill up your glass to benefit The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society on Saturday, May 29, from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the Atlanta Classics Bar Tour. Guests can gallivant through Virginia-Highland's oldest bars -- Atkins Park Tavern (originally a 1922 deli; tavern in 1983), George's Restaurant and Bar (1961), Limerick Junction Irish Pub (1988), Manuel's Tavern (1956) and Moe's & Joe's Tavern (1947) -- to get discounted adult beverages and menu specials priced the same as they were back in the 1960s. Tickets are $10 per person in advance and $20 at the door and include admission, a Classic Bar Tour mug, t-shirt and drink refills at a discounted price at participating bars.

Morton’s The Steakhouse Wins Over Wine-Lovers With a New By-The-Glass Menu

Wine-lovers rejoice! Morton's The Steakhouse is now offering a new Wine by the Glass menu at both the Buckhead and downtown Atlanta locations. The menu pours it on with a selection of 27 wines that complement the existing award-winning variety of more than 200 bottles. Spring/Summer 2010 selections by the glass include: the 25th release of 2010 Vintner's Hall of Fame inductee Randall Grahm's Bonny Doon "Le Cigare Volant" (This California vintage is offered as a special label "Morton's Cuvee."); a single vineyard Pinot Noir from Tony Soter's Willamette estate; and a rich Chardonnay from Dan Goldfield at Dutton Goldfield (Russian River).

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

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

Sara Moulton Wows Crowds at Cook’s Warehouse

The culinarian’s calendar is always full in this town. After hearing reports about Sara Moulton’s recent classes at Cook’s Warehouse, we’re slapping our wrists for missing the event!
Current Good Morning America Food Editor and former Gourmet magazine chef Sara taught a class in each of Cook’s Warehouse’s three stores featuring recipes from her great new cookbook Sara Moulton's Everyday Family Dinners. We hear reports that she was gracious and fun! If you missed the class, there’s still a limited supply of freshly autographed copies of her book available at Cook’s Warehouse.

It’s Follow Friday – meet our Tweep of the Week @pointsnorthedit

Monthly Points North magazine has kept stylish Atlanta Northsiders informed about what's happening on their side of town since 2000. Readers can now find much of that information elegantly presented on the Points North website.

Dining, entertainment, travel, recipes, styles and human interest stories are all fair game. No time to read it all? Sign up for shorter Twitter updates!

Farm to Table to Kid: Be a Participant

Saturday, Alton Brown of the Food Network, Yael Lehman of The Food Trust, and Anthony Geraci of the Baltimore City School Farm to School Program will tackle the topic of increasing access to healthy foods in schools and low-income communities and you can participate.

Georgia Organics has organized three ways for you to join the conversation:

1. There's a Viewing Party at the Peachtree Road Farmers Market this Saturday from 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Pick up some information, tune in to the discussion and submit questions for the speakers LIVE on-site. More information here.

2. Tune in from your home and watch the webcast. Submit your questions online during the discussion. Watch the webcast live here.

3. Submit your questions now to be asked during the Q & A session on how we can truly fulfill Georgia Organics' goal of GOOD FOOD FOR ALL. Email webcast@georgiaorganics.org

A tour just for champagne?

Are you a lover of champagne? If the answer is yes, then tomorrow is your lucky day, because it's time for Tour de Champagne. The event will be taking place at 103 West on Friday, May 21 from 7 - 10 p.m. and will help get your weekend started out on a positive note.

Tour de Champagne will feature a selection of prestigious champagnes along with treats from some of Atlanta's most talented chefs. Chef Keira Mortiz of Pacci Ristorante will be among the chefs providing their delectable cuisines. For the champagne and truffle lovers, LW Chocolatier will be there to provide you with your chocolate fix.

In addition to the tasting tour, there will be a silent auction benefiting Angel Flight of Georgia -- a volunteer pilot organization that provides free air transportation for medical treatments that are not available locally and for other compassionate purposes for the benefit of the community. Tickets can be purchased online for $140 or at the door (if available) for $160.

103 West is located at 103 West Paces Ferry Road; 404-233-5993.

This Weather was Made for Chilling & Grilling

Atkins Park Tavern in Virginia-Highland is the perfect place to celebrate this beautiful sunny weather and get some good summertime grub prepared on the Big Green Egg. Every Wednesday from 6 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., the restaurant offers a Big Green Egg "Chill & Grill" patio cookout with a menu that changes weekly. Check out tonight's cookout and prepare to be dazzled by Sous Chef Justin Carr's seasonal selections. On the menu this evening: a BLT salad with crisp confit belly, local spring lettuce and tomato vinaigrette ($8); a spicy shrimp sandwich with charred cippoline onions and apples on crusty bread ($10); and tender BBQ chicken with corn on the cob ($12). Beer and wine pairings chosen for this evening include Brewery Ommegang Rare Vos, Full Sail Brewing Session Lager and Man Chardonnay.

Sneak a peek at the cookout fare each Monday when Atkins Park posts the week's Chill & Grill menu on their website and Facebook Fan Page. Atkins Park Tavern is located at 794 N. Highland Avenue; 404-876-7249.

Coffee Talk

LW Chocolatier, the boutique chocolate shop in Buckhead, is adding even more European style to its selection by offering assorted coffees, espressos, cappuccinos and lattes. With LW’s newly-added patio seating and beverage offerings, you can get a taste of Europe right in the heart of Buckhead. Add a few truffles to your espresso and some prime people-watching and you've got yourself an excellent afternoon break! Even better, all coffee drinks range $2 to $5 in price. Did I mention the chocolates? Do yourself a favor and try the dark chocolate Dulce de Leche; you won't regret it.

Don’t Forget About the First Ever Atlanta Beer Week

The exciting inaugural Atlanta Beer Week began yesterday and will run through Saturday, May 22. You don't want to miss more than 50 of Atlanta’s top beer spots -- bars, restaurants, brewpubs and breweries -- joining together to host about 100 beer-related events, tastings, dinners and special beer releases. We know two popular Atlanta Beer Week participants quite well, and we frequent them as often as possible: Shaun’s, the neighborly bistro in historic Inman Park, and Ormsby’s, a “good place to be” on Atlanta’s Westside.

Shaun Doty of Shaun’s has tipped The Atlanta Journal-Constitution that he’s adding 30 American, Belgian, British, German and Japanese craft beers to his menu for the event. He’s planning a different seasonal three-course menu each night for $29 plus suggested beer pairings. Read more on the AJC’s Drink blog. Ormsby’s boasts a generous variety of craft beers, dedicating a page to the beer list on its website. During Atlanta Beer Week, the tavern will tap into a cask of Terrapin Monk’s Revenge at 6 p.m. on Tuesday, May 18 and a cask of SweetWater Four Drink Minimum with Breakfast (a BSP quad brewed with coffee) at 6 p.m. on Thursday, May 20. Wednesday night, May 19, the Schmaltz Brewery traveling freak show starts at 8:30 p.m. -- watch their man swallow a sword and hammer nails into his face. Yikes! On Friday, May 21 Ormsby’s will tap the only remaining Atlanta keg of New Belgium’s La Folie. The Flemish sour ale will flow all day.

Sign up online to stay afloat with Atlanta Beer Week brew news via Facebook and Twitter.

Ormsby’s: 1170 Howell Mill Road, NW; 404-968-2033.
Shaun’s: 1029 Edgewood Avenue, NE; 404-577-4358.

Save Atlanta Farmers Markets!

We had intended this post to be an excited update about Chef Gerry Klaskala doing a chef demo (we do love those!) at the Piedmont Park Green Market tomorrow. My, how things change in a few days! Atlanta Dish received word yesterday that our farmers markets are in need of our help as the city evaluates their policies regarding the markets – specifically, there aren’t any currently. If current city event rules were applied to Atlanta farmers markets, it would create expenses that most markets cannot afford since most of them are a labor of love run by volunteers.

I don’t know about you, but I can’t and don’t want to imagine an Atlanta without our farmers markets. The Atlanta City Government is generally supportive of the markets which is much appreciated, but they do need to hear our voices against these extended policies that would financially cripple or close down the markets. To find out more about the policies involved and about how you can contact the mayor to let him know how important these farmers markets are, please visit the Facebook event page!

It's Follow Friday - Meet Our Tweep of the Week @intownfriends

It’s springtime and there are few things we’d rather be doing than spending time outside, Terrapin Beer in hand, along with great tastings from local restaurants like Atkins Park, Ecco, La Tavola Trattoria, South City Kitchen, The Original El Taco and at least 20 other Atlanta restaurants! Good thing that A Taste of the Highlands is here this weekend! The 8th annual event returns to John Howell Park tomorrow from 2 to 5 p.m. and it’s all for a great cause – Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta.

Live music from Lexi Street Band and Blue Remedy will keep you happy and smiling while you sample the best the neighborhood has to offer! Follow them on Twitter to get the latest updates on the event, as well as the other fundraisers they do throughout the year. Bonus – if you buy your ticket online before noon today, you can save $10!

Race Across America Sunday

Warren Bruno makes everything fun! This year he is the co-crew chief for the Georgia Chain Gang - a group of cyclists raising money for The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. This Sunday the group cycles from Atkins Park in the Highlands to Atkins Park in Smyrna and back. Oh yeah, and they'll stop by Ormsby's too. Trust me when I say this ride will be fun, and delicious.

The ride starts at 8:30 on May 16 and costs $30 per person. A great event for a great cause!

Reserve your spot at Toulouse's monthly wine tasting

Fellow wine lovers I have good news, great news actually. Toulouse Restaurant is having their monthly wine tasting on Sunday, May 16. I have been to a previous wine tasting and it was time well spent. I recommend it to all.

The bistro will be featuring reserve wines and you'll be able to learn the subtle nuances that make it special. There will be 15 reserve wines, as well as light appetizers for the 6:30 p.m. tasting. The cost of the wine tasting is $40 per person. If you have any reservations about going then I recommend you reconsider and reserve your spot for this months reserve wine tasting. Reservations are encouraged so reserve your spot now at 404.351.9533.

Toulouse: 2293 Peachtree Road, NE, Suite B; 404-351-9533.

How To Throw A Party Morton's-Style

Thinking of throwing a party over Memorial Day Weekend? Morton's The Steakhouse in Buckhead is hosting the perfect event for you! On Thursday, May 13, from 6 - 7:30 p.m., Morton's is hosting a Summer Soiree How-To complete with cocktail making demonstrations and recipes for summertime appetizers.

Learn how to make breezy cocktails like the Cool as a Cucumber cocktail, Guava Caipirissima and Port Sangria. Complementary appetizers such as tuna tartar canapes, mini crab cakes and sirloin rolls will also be demonstrated. And, of course, complimentary bites and sips of everything will be available throughout the demonstration. After all, you can't serve something at a party that you've never tried, right?

The event is $45 per person and seats are limited so be sure to make a reservation to attend!

Pacci Ristorante Loves Pooches!

This month marks the one-year anniversary of Pacci Ristorante, an Italian steakhouse in Midtown that opened last May and was named one of Esquire magazine's "Best New Restaurants of 2009," and the restaurant is celebrating by partnering with the Atlanta Humane Society (AHS). Throughout May, Pacci will donate $1 to AHS for each signature carpaccio (Kobe beef or tuna) or new spring cocktail ordered. Many of the restaurant's guests and staff members are dog lovers, including Pacci's Chef Keira Moritz who has a border collie, and hold AHS close to their hearts. The restaurant is also collecting items on the AHS Wish List to donate to the organization. In honor of this partnership, AHS is naming a puppy that is currently up for adoption (pictured above) Pacci.

For guests who dine at Pacci and have dogs waiting at home, Chef Keira creates homemade Pacci Pups (a bag of gourmet dog biscuits for only $2) to go!

Pacci Ristorante: 866 West Peachtree Street, NW, adjacent to the Hotel Palomar; 678-412-2402.