Dine with Gratitude and Help The Giving Kitchen Aid Hospitality Workers in Need, Aug. 20-23

Dine out and show your support for The Giving Kitchen and the hospitality workers who provide the amazing meals, drinks and food services we enjoy in Atlanta. All you have to do is dine at participating restaurants over the Dining with Gratitude dates of Aug. 20-23. Each restaurant will donate 10 percent of sales to The Giving Kitchen to further the nonprofit’s ability to aid Atlanta-area restaurant and hospitality workers facing crisis situations. Can’t decide where to eat out? Fine options include Marlow’s Tavern locations in Vinings, Midtown, Emory, Northlake, Sandy Springs, Brookhaven and Dunwoody; The Big Ketch Saltwater Grill in Buckhead and on Canton Street; Gypsy Kitchen; Milton’s Cuisine & Cocktails; Smokebelly BBQ; The Southern Gentleman and Tin Lizzy’s Cantina. Eat and give thanks for the hands that prepare, serve and clean up our abundance of ATL dining options.

Fly By the Southern Wing Showdown for Wings, Spirits and More at The Foundry at Puritan Mill Aug. 20

The Southern Wing Showdown alights at The Foundry at Puritan Mill for a second spicy year on the afternoon of Sunday, Aug. 20. Taste of Atlanta backs this gathering of 25 high-end eateries, which span the flight pattern from Nashville to Charleston. Chefs crack open Big Green Eggs to turn out winged wonders using Springer Mountain Farms antibiotic- and hormone-free chicken and savory sides. Spirits soar thanks to plentiful Southern libations and music from local band Battlefield Collective. General admission($30 advance, $40 at door if available) includes 2 p.m. entry, wing tastes, live entertainment, chef greet and eat and cash bar. VIP First Taster tickets, over-21 set only ($55 advance, $65 at door if available), gain early entrance at 1 p.m. plus entry into the Southern Spirits Lounge with café seating and an open bar for spirit and craft beer tastings. Online purchase service fees apply. Last year’s history shows tickets flying off the shelf so best pluck yours right away for the rain-or-shine event. Southern Wing Showdown benefits Open Hand and Second Helpings Atlanta. Wing tip, if you haven’t already done so, this is a good time to purchase Taste of Atlanta tickets for October’s gigantic gastro-fest.

Taco Crawl Munches through Midtown, Stops at Tin Lizzy’s, Taco Mac and Willy’s Mexicana Grill for Tacos and Drink Specials

We’re betting Midtown’s First Annual Taco Crawl won’t be the last! The inaugural tour steps out on Saturday, Aug. 19 beginning at noon and folds at 6 p.m. Search out the best tacos in the heart of Midtown while checking out new bars, enjoying drink specials and meeting like-minded, taco-toting new friends. Tour price includes four taco tickets to use at Tin Lizzy’s Cantina, Taco Mac and Willy’s Mexicana Grill or any of the other participating bars and eateries on the Atlanta Bar Crawl signature crawl map, additional taco specials and exclusive drink specials on beer, margaritas, shots and more. Taco tourists will receive a voting card at their last stop to pass judgment on the “Best Tasting” and “Most Unique” tacos. Buy tickets, $25 per person, at Eventbrite.

Pork & Barrel Saturdays --Terminus City BBQ Lunch Stand Pops Up at American Spirit Whiskey Distillery on Saturdays this Fall

On Saturday, Aug. 12, chef Kevin Gillespie and his Terminus City BBQ crew rolled their lunch stand of scintillating smoked pork barbecue and all the accoutrements to the doors of American Spirit Whiskey’s Armour Drive distillery. The porky pop-up continues every Saturday throughout the fall, 11:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Chow on a chopped whole hog BBQ sandwich with shaker slaw on a buttered toasted bun ($8) or pick up chopped whole hog barbecue to go ($19/lb.) and sides by the pint ($9). Walk on up and buy some ‘cue, no reservations needed, during distillery tour hours. Once a month, American Spirit will host a ticketed event, featuring a new release that will add even more spirit to afternoons filled with food, whiskey, cocktails, lawn games and college football viewings (once the season starts).

Chef Mike’s Big Green Egg-Cellent Adventure of a Grilling Demo Thrills Taste Buds Aug. 19

Are you intimidated by a Big Green Egg? Turn awe into awesome by conquering that Big Green Egg or just further your BGE prowess during an afternoon heady with sips, sizzles and grilling demonstrations at Ray’s at Killer Creek on Saturday, Aug. 19.  Executive chef Mike Fuller turns out a tantalizing tasting menu of four BGE-grilled courses of glazed pork belly salad; smoked shrimp steamed buns with jalapeño-pickled relish and sweet chili and herb slaw; low-and-slow cooked wagyu brisket with cast-iron mac and cheese and salsa verde; and grilled banana bread with caramel and sea salt ice cream. Demo, tasting menu, beverage of iced tea, soda or coffee and a choice of bloody mary, mimosa or 16-ounce draft beer are included in the $39 price (excludes tax and gratuity). Reservations required for the 1-3 p.m. event; call 770-649-0064. If you’re already booked, save Sept. 9 on your calendar, the date for the Alpharetta restaurant’s next BGE demo and tasting.

Elvis, Has it Been 40 Years? You’re Always on My Mind – and Available -- at the Elvis Room at Johnny’s Hideaway

Our “Burning Love” for all things Elvis leaves us “All Shook Up” this time each year when we remember Presley’s passing on Aug. 16, 1977. Do we “Viva Las Vegas” it or head for Graceland to honor the American icon? Heck, no need. The legacy of the “King of Rock and Roll” swivels on in the memorabilia-filled “Elvis Room” at Johnny’s Hideaway in Buckhead. Rock on over to the wall-to-wall, floor-to-ceiling memorial that’s open and ready for your blue suede shoes to enter whenever Johnny’s Hideaway is open. Makes a nice pause, little darlin’, between bites of cheeseburgers, cocktail sippers and rushing like a dancing fool to the “Promised Land” – Johnny’s dance floor. 

What’s New on Pinterest: Hungry & Healthy

Hungry & Healthy paves an off-ramp from summer’s habits of grabbing ice cream here (triple scoops because you couldn’t decide on one flavor), ballpark food there (bring on the loaded dogs) and fast food on the road to vacation destinations. Play around with roasted veggies, turn sweet potatoes into waffle breakfast sandwiches or a one-skillet meal with cheese, chicken and kale. One-pan Italian sausage and veggies yield clean eating (and one pan to clean). Pizza has its place: a cauliflower pizza crust base, portobello mushroom pizza or fruity watermelon pizza. Paleo pleasers include spicy tuna rolls, chicken lime lettuce wraps or a spaghetti squash casserole that’s protein packed with ground turkey. Go for a whirl and whip up smoothies to soothe after-school hungries in a flash.

Reserve Serves Three “Rs” at Aria: Reservations, Requests and Reminders

The new Reserve reservation system at award-winning Aria makes locking in a time and table for dinner a cinch. Select your preferred dining time and enter the number of guests on the easy-to-read screen. Instantly, you’re almost done by adding name, email and mobile number. There’s even a place to include special requests…say, that proposal-perfect special table in the corner or one by the door so your dear aunt can enter and exit with ease. For those prone to forgetfulness (or who need an excuse to bow out and head to dinner), Reserve texts a reminder to your mobile phone. Think of Reserve as a prelude to Aria’s impeccable service and chef/owner Gerry Klaskala’s incredible cuisine. Still prefer person-to-person? Simply call Aria at 404-233-7673. Stay in the know by signing up for Aria news and events.

#Foodgram: Hosting Brunch

So you volunteered to host brunch and now butterflies are soaring in your tummy? HostingBrunch is your saving grace, a picturesque go-to for what to cook, how to decorate and how to host brunch. After your fabulous fête (be it grand or humble), tag your success #HostingBrunch and perhaps you’ll make their spread.

Travel Channel’s Andrew Zimmern Captures KUDU Grills

Three-time James Beard Award-winning TV personality, chef, writer and teacher Andrew Zimmern prowls for unique tastes and brilliant edible ideas to star on his Travel Channel “Bizarre Foods” shows. We’ve caught a video of him in an out-of-the-bizarre-box moment, showing off grilling skills in That Moment When Andrew Zimmern Uses a KUDU At Home. The multitasking KUDU Grill handily manages rack of lamb (which Zimmern admits can be daunting to grill) alongside eggplant and leeks. Zimmern pulls the swift cooking veggies, converting them into a Mediterranean salad while the lamb sizzles its way to succulent perfection. Who knows what Zimmern will grill, sauté, sear, fry, boil, steam, roast or smoke next on his open-fire KUDU. The intuitive and straightforward cooking process is simple to master, and the grill packs and sets up effortlessly so you can take it with you to barbecues, tailgate parties or into your own backyard.

Appetizing Aperture: Lousiana BBQ Shrimp Lettuce Wraps at Atkins Park

Skip the taco shell and go green with small plates of Louisiana BBQ shrimp lettuce wraps ($11) at Atkins Park Restaurant & Bar in Virginia-Highland. Tender shrimp are all fired up to tuck in with lemon, red bell pepper and onions in these refreshing wraps. Have another and throw in a cold Abita beer while you’re at it, please.

Chef Mike’s Italian Summer Adventures Feed Storico Fresco Dish Ideas and Instagram Journal

Storico Fresco Alimentari e Ristorante’s co-owner and culinary director Mike Patrick goes straight to the motherland to find authentic inspiration for the menu at his Buckhead restaurant and market. He’s back from a summer excursion to Italy, his head loaded with ideas, recipes and techniques destined for Storico Fresco’s kitchen. Delve into the trip’s memorable meals and edible explorations by following Patrick’s well-documented Instagram photo journal. His research cuts through the Eternal City of Rome, ventures out to the Tuscan coastal town of Ponte Rosso for a beach cookout of baby crabs and tomatoes tossed with strozzapreti and baby clams and revels in a Michelin-starred meal in Rimini that’s capped by “a mind bender” of cuttlefish cappuccino topped with squid ink dust. Wish you could have tagged along? Turn sighs into seats at Storico Fresco to enjoy tasting menu selections as well as prepared foods influenced by Patrick’s travels. Bring friends and gather around the table for a true Italian dining experience at lunch and dinner Monday through Saturday. Shop the market Monday through Saturday 10 a.m.-8 p.m. No airline ticket needed, but reservations are recommended, call (404) 500-2181 or save your spot on OpenTable.

Peaches and Pigs Take Over Downtown Atlanta during PeachFest Aug. 13

PeachFest, a hyper-local food fest, roots its way into downtown Atlanta this Sunday, Aug. 13 to promote the various varieties of peaches and heritage pigs raised responsibly by Georgia family farmers. More than 85 winemakers, distillers, chefs, food artisans, brewers, bartenders and farmers will educate and inspire guests with culinary experiences at the not-for-profit event. From 4-7 p.m., watch and learn as chefs create classic peach (and paleo) dishes and roast, smoke and grill heritage breed pork at the festival along Broad Street, NW and Poplar Street, NW. Of course you can eat and drink (it would be the pits not to). Sample peach-infused boozy punches, peach craft brews and premium wines. All-inclusive tickets start at $60 ($100 VIP ticket includes 3 p.m. entry and exclusive tasting of cellared wines). Can’t swing by? Donations hungrily appreciated. Proceeds from tickets and a silent auction support the growth of producers in Georgia and beyond through Piggy Bank. What a peachy way to celebrate National Peach Month!

Go Back to S’cool with Sweet Charlie’s PB&J, Savings and Rewards

You won’t find Sweet Charlie’s PB&J in a lunchbox. The Buckhead ice cream shop salutes the back-to-school crowd with this frozen confection destined for head-of-the-class status. Sweet Charlie’s syllabus shows several other specials to chillax the homework load. Students can subtract $2 off their purchase, be it a PB&J roll or any other Sweet Charlie’s treat, over the dates of Monday, Aug. 14 through Friday, Aug. 18. To rev up school spirit and some good-humored competition, Sweet Charlie’s has created a school spirit board. Add a star next to your school’s name during each shop visit (school write-ins welcomed). The school sporting the most stars when the competition closes Nov. 1 wins a holiday party catered by Sweet Charlie’s. And, in this case, brain freeze can be a good incentive to work hard because all A’s on a report card merits a free ice cream through Sweet Charlie’s Good Grades Reward Program (must show report card to redeem, limit one per student). Yes, school buses, and Sweet Charlie’s, are on a roll.

Fantasy Football Commissioners Score More by Booking Draft Parties at Taco Mac

Taco Mac asks, “Does anyone else feel a draft coming on?” An ice-cold draft in a glass? A draft of fall football weather inching down the field? Fantasy football draft picks? Commissioners, step up and set the fantasy football season ball in motion. Book a fantasy football draft party at Taco Mac and score a special league commissioner swag package from Taco Mac and Miller Lite. Take home a league championship ring to give to the season winner, a Taco Mac hat, $10 off $25 offers for each week of the season and plenty more. To book, call your preferred BFF (best fantasy football) Taco Mac location or complete the request form at http://fantasydraft.tacomac.com/. Book early; commissioner packages available while supplies last. From wings to beer to views, Taco Mac has everything your league needs to set the 2017 season in motion.

Find Tacos, Tequila and Talented Musician John Thrasher at Jefe’s Live Music Wednesdays

Guitar tunes go with tacos like guac with tortilla chips. Have all this and more on Wednesday nights at Jefe’s Tequila & Tacos in Town Brookhaven. John Thrasher fills the cantina with his acoustic guitar and vocals on Aug. 9 beginning at 6 p.m. Atlanta couples wholeheartedly say, “I do!” to booking Thrasher and the five star-rated Atlanta Wedding Band for their wedding parties. Additionally, he fronts his own original music projects -- treat yourself to an earful here. Taco tip, Jefe’s long list of tacos come in soft tortillas for munch that doesn’t crunch when you’re tuned into the music! Margaritas and beer make an ideal backup band.

What’s New on Pinterest: How 'Bout That Hummus

How ‘Bout That Hummus? The smooth chameleon of dips and spreads adapts to the theme du jour. Mediterranean purists can scoop classic, Kalamata olive, lemon garlic or Jerusalem hummus. Dabblers, turn your attention to magenta-hued vegan beet, caramelized onion or roasted poblano sweet corn. Contrast sugar and spice by whipping batches of addicting chocolate chip cookie dough or banana bread hummus as well as batches of Buffalo, turmeric sweet potato or smoky chipotle pumpkin hummus. Out of pasta sauce? Hmmmmm. Hummus saves face, again.

#Foodgram: Dennis the Prescott

Homemade is the way to go for Dennis the Prescott. Feed the desires of your heart and appetite with recipes from his new “Eat Delicious” cookbook. Feasting eyes on his photos leads to another temptation…clicking over to order his cookbook. Kindle it this morning for instant gratification and ideas for tonight’s dinner.

Appetizing Aperture: Sweet Charlie's Banana Pudding

Prince of the potluck, sweetheart of the church buffet, banana pudding rules the Southern dessert table. And, Banana Pudding is the newest signature ice cream at Sweet Charlie’s in Buckhead courting Nilla Wafers, toasted banana and crowned by a dollop of whipped cream.

Star Grazing

Celebs continue to gravitate to Umi for chef Fuyuhiko Ito’s incredible sushi, nigiri, sashimi and signature rolls. Samuel L. Jackson (“Star Wars,” “The Incredibles”) was spotted dining at Umi on July 20. The King of Cool has appeared in more than 100 films and holds the rare distinction of being eaten by both a shark and a dinosaur in his occupation. At Umi, Jackson played diner, not dinner, with four other guests and enjoyed himself so much he returned for a second visit on July 22.

Book The Blind Pig Parlour Bar for Fantasy Football Draft Parties

Fantasy football drafting is heady stuff, best tackled under utmost concentration in surroundings with few distractions…other than beer, wings and a 65-inch big screen TV for picking drafts online. The Blind Pig Parlour Bar checks all the boxes and more. Book the hidden speakeasy as a private room for a two-hour time block. Huddle up with 10-15 guests, Wi-Fi, four pitchers of beer and 100 wings for $150. Opt in on the 65-inch TV so everyone can view online drafting. To book your fantasy football draft party, email April@sphospitality.com or call direct, 404-931-1251.

Open Now -- $100 Gift for Booking Holiday Parties at Ray’s Restaurants by Sept. 30

Perhaps the event planning elves at Ray’s Restaurants crisped on the beach and started longing for the cool holiday party season. Their desire to jumpstart the holidays at Ray’s in the City, Ray’s on the River and Ray’s at Killer Creek rewards early bird party planners with the gift of a $100 Ray’s Dining Card to be enjoyed in the new year. All three Ray’s Restaurants come through with extraordinary cuisine and service, and The Grand Pavilion at Ray’s on the River provides an especially spectacular event space. Surrounded by lush landscaping, The Grand Pavilion affords panoramic views of the Chattahoochee River and direct access to a lighted path meandering along the riverbank. The temperature-controlled pavilion with its own private entrance accommodates up to 180 guests, a band, DJ and a dance floor. To take advantage of Ray’s holiday party gift card incentive, book and confirm your Dec. 1-30, 2017 party with signed contract by Sept. 30, 2017. Food and beverage minimum of $1,500 is required to qualify for the $100 Ray’s Dining Card. Ray’s Dining Card will be mailed in January 2018 provided event invoice has been paid in full.

Be In the Know Before You Go -- Insider Tips for New Babalu Tapas & Tacos

Midtown neighbors are embracing Babalu Tapas & Tacos, which opened June 26 in Midtown’s 33 Peachtree Place mixed-use development at West Peachtree Street and Peachtree Place. They’re buzzing about the fresh flavors of Babalu’s Latin-inspired dishes tweaked with a tad of Southern influence, the fabulous cocktails made with freshly-squeezed juices and a natural sense of hospitality -- right down to welcoming pups on the patio. Even the neighborly grapevine may not know all of Babalu’s captivating traits.

Take the Chef’s Table, for instance, where guests are privy to the best seats in the house -- at no extra cost. Chef’s Table diners order off the same menu as guests seated at other tables, with the bonus of being able to interact with Babalu chefs. Prime food-entertainment here, surveying kitchen action while sharing starters ($4.95-$10.95) like guacamole made tableside and yellowfin tuna ceviche. Or, head straight for tapas ($9.25-$13.50) including braised chicken tamales, pan-seared jumbo lump crab cakes, enchilada of the day, “Fierce” shrimp, pan-roasted redfish or the shrimp and chorizo skillet. Order three of the same tacos for $9 or mix them up ($3.25-$3.75 each) choosing among beef tenderloin Carne de Vaca, smoked Niman Ranch pork belly Carne de Cerdo, veggie-full Vegetal, Atun (spiced seared saku tuna), duck confit De Pato and others. Salads, sandwiches, shareable sides and desserts round out the menu. Sometimes “extras” are thrown into the meal mix for lucky Chef’s Table diners. Although Babalu doesn’t take reservations, guests can request Chef’s Table seats upon arrival. 

Bogey and Boogie for New Story Charity at Southern Proper Hospitality’s Golf Tournament Aug. 14 and The Blind Pig’s Great Gatsby Party Aug. 19

Golfers, Southern Proper Hospitality invites you to kick up your heels on the greens for New Story Charity, an organization that builds homes for impoverished families around the developing world. Swing through a day of golf and socializing at Cumming’s Polo Golf & Country Club on Monday, Aug. 14. Tee up for a day inclusive of all green and cart fees, range balls, practice facilities, on-course hosted beverages, event prizes, hot lunch, awards reception dinner and silent auction. Registration is at 11 a.m. with a 1 p.m. shotgun start. Try your hand at the Trick Shot Expo and Beat the Pro Competition with Golf Entertainer Brad Denton. Secure your spot here, $750 per foursome or $200 single player.

On Saturday, Aug. 19, Gatsby’s back in town, dining and partying hard at The Blind Pig Parlour Bar. Buckhead’s discreet speakeasy steps back to the Roaring ‘20s for its third annual and much-adored Gatsby Party. At 7 p.m., a lavish four-course dinner opens the door to a lively evening followed by a rollicking after-party with limited open bar, passed hors d’oeuvre, live entertainment, a tarot card reader and gambling at 10 p.m. Choose your ticket, depending on your revelry capacity. The All-Access Gatsby Pass ($200) includes dinner, wine pairings and access to the Gatsby Party. Golden Ticket Party Pass ($75) includes Gatsby Party with limited open bar from 10 p.m.-2 a.m. Proceeds also benefit New Story Charity.

Half-Off Half-Shells Honors National Oyster Day at The Big Ketch Saltwater Grill Aug. 5

Saturday’s special is “shore” grabbing attention among the bivalve set at The Big Ketch Saltwater Grill. On National Oyster Day, Aug. 5, the local beach house satiates oyster slurpers with half off the price of a dozen oysters from 11 a.m.-4 p.m. at both locations (Canton Street and Buckhead). If Saturday’s sunk for you, reel in this offer every Monday-Friday from 4-6 p.m. during Oyster Happy Hour.

Friday Night Blues and Orpheus Tap Takeover Hit HOBNOB Midtown Aug. 4

Trend watchers, summertime blues are out, Friday Night Blues are in at HOBNOB Neighborhood Tavern in Midtown. Do bop into this neighborhood fave for its new weekly series promising top-notch blues music by notable local bands. Expect some takeovers, too, by way of local breweries and beer-and-a-shot specials showcasing local whiskey distilleries. British blues music by the Backyardbirds launches the series this Friday, Aug. 4 from 9 p.m.-1 a.m. Look out for Midtown’s own Orpheus Brewing to take command of the taps. Team an Orpheus draft selection with a shot of American Spirit Whiskey for $9. Friday Night Blues and beer pairings continue through the month:

Aug. 11 - The Hollidays and Scofflaw Brewing Co.
Aug. 18 - The Wild Hares and Eventide Brewing
Aug. 25 - Tiki Tonk and Creature Comforts Brewing Co.

Follow The Dish for upcoming blues, brewery and distillery lineups.

Auction Bidding Ends Aug. 2 for a Coveted Table at Gunshow’s Sold-out Aug. 6 “Hired Guns” Dinner

Urgent action required! Use this link and bid today because tomorrow, Aug. 2, is the last day to vie for a chance to win a table for four at the 8:30 p.m. seating of Gunshow’s Aug. 6 “Hired Guns” dinner. Specifically, the benefit auction closes at 11:59 p.m. ET Wednesday night. New Orleans sensation chef Justin Devillier blows into the Glenwood Park restaurant to unleash a storm of culinary creations along with Gunshow chef/owner Kevin Gillespie, executive chef Joey Ward and the talented Gunshow kitchen crew. Devillier is the chef/owner of La Petite Grocery and Balise in New Orleans and winner of the 2016 James Beard Foundation Award for Best Chef: South. The charity auction proceeds go to Hogs for the Cause Atlanta, an annual fundraising music festival and barbecue competition that raises money for families with children fighting pediatric brain cancer. Notice we’re not giving a ticket purchase link? We did mention the event is sold out, didn’t we?

Worm Your Way into Taco Mac Casa Herradura Tequila Dinner Aug. 2

Your first tequila tip from Ruben Acevas, brand ambassador from Mexico’s Casa Herradura: take sips, not shots of Casa Herradura’s legendary handcrafted, barrel-aged tequilas. Sense 145 years of tequila-producing history flowing across your palate, the results of a dedication to craft that has earned Casa Herradura the recognition as the “World’s Most Gold Medal-Awarded Tequila.” Acevas will enlighten guests at a four-course Casa Herradura Tequila Dinner hosted by Taco Mac at The Prado in Sandy Springs on Wednesday, Aug. 2. Explore four unique tequilas -- Reposado, Double Reposado, Blanco and Ultra -- at the 6-9 p.m. dinner in The Georgia Chapter Room. Buy tickets on Xorbia, $45 per person.

Claw-a-Bunga! Ray’s Lobsterfest Traps $29.95 Lobster Dinner Beginning Aug. 1

Perhaps you’ve heard the deep discussions -- the table talk about Maine lobsters at Ray’s Restaurants. How deep were those lobster cages anyway?  Way down where Maine’s coastal waters raise up the most tender, succulent lobsters to be found. During Ray’s Lobsterfest at Ray’s in the City, Ray’s on the River and Ray’s at Killer Creek, delve into this delectably weighty matter, enjoying a 1.25 pound whole Maine lobster for dinner served with your choice of artisan field greens or Caesar salad and a side choice of Yukon Gold whipped potatoes or chef’s vegetable du jour for $29.95 per person (excludes tax, gratuity, beverages). Clawing for more? Two- and three-pound lobsters are also available. Limited time only; subject to availability.

What’s New on Pinterest: Under the Sea

Some swim with sharks and risk being bitten, we prefer doing the biting...into riches from Under the Sea. Scuba, dooba do into an ocean of recipes including the South’s best oyster recipes. Master perfectly seared scallops then swim toward Sriracha or apple cider-balsamic glaze, brown butter with Parmesan risotto or cauliflower purée with pine nuts and raisins. Be selfish and serve all the shellfish in Italian seafood pasta, paella or a sheet pan clam bake. Claw for crabcake burgers, lobster bakes, grilled tails and toasts. No scrimping on shrimp: go pesto-grilled, risotto-ed or coconut-baked. Calamari? Fish? Oh, mahimahi. You, po’boy, are landing way too big a catch.  

#Foodgram: Hungry Girl 325

Hungry Girl 325 eats her way from San Fran to L.A. on a regular basis. She’s dealt with anxiety and eating disorders and offers encouragement to those hesitant to jump out of their comfort zones and into beneficial opportunities. How else would she be able to share bread bowl breakfasts in London and queen-worthy Peggy Porschen tea and cake with us?

Appetizing Aperture: 5Church Atlanta

Let 5Church Atlanta bless your day with a heavenly glass of Holy Water ($12). This angelic cocktail extols Southern summer pleasures -- Four Roses bourbon, sweet tea, tart lemon juice, fresh blackberries and crisp, green mint leaves enhanced by a dash of blue agave. Have one or two and you’ll be singing praises to summer in the South.

Star Grazing

Umi continues to draw locals and celebrities alike. Recent sightings include SPANX founder Sara Blakely (whose shapewear empire is conveniently headquartered across Peachtree), “Ironman” Robert Downey, Jr. and Jaleel White, best known for his role as Steve Urkel in the ‘90s sitcom “Family Matters.” Described as a “very nice guy,” White dined on Ito-kase along with a few of the restaurant’s more exotic items -- monkfish liver and sea urchin.

Get On Board -- Storico Fresco Meat and Cheese Boards -- for Easy Entertaining

Simplify menu planning for poolside gatherings, picnics and outdoor concerts by picking up a Storico Fresco Alimentari e Ristorante weekly featured meat and cheese board ($16). No need to pre-order the rotating selection of authentic Italian meats and cheese portioned to serve two to four people. Pop in, place your request at the counter and your board will be ready in about 10 minutes. Browse or enjoy a beverage while waiting or call ahead if you’ve no time to spare. Combination examples include Prosciutto San Daniele, soppressata, pantaleo, Ubriacone and mixed olives; mortadella, Lou Bergier and Santa Teresa with mixed olives and pistachios; and finocchiona, bresaola, Canestrato de Madaio and provolone piccante, with pistachios and other wonderful Italian charcuterie and cheeses.

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

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

Third Thursday Evenings Come “Alive in Roswell” with Music, Food and Family Fun -- July 27

The back-to-school bus will arrive soon, ferrying a load of afterschool activities. Let the whole family celebrate summer’s last few unstructured evenings at Alive in Roswell on Thursday, July 27. The monthly free festival, sponsored by Explore Roswell, parties hearty from 5-9 p.m. each third Thursday evening from April through October. Activities running concurrently on Historic Canton Street and in Historic Roswell Square entertain all ages, whether tastes run toward food trucks, live music, kids’ games, face painting, balloons or visiting boutiques and businesses around the festival. A free trolley transports between the two venues. Adults, take cheer in hand. Alcoholic beverages may be purchased and consumed at Alive in Roswell!

Long Days Lead to Happy Hours, in Town and Out

Atlanta restaurants are ensuring summer’s long, lingering afternoon into evening hours are extra happier by planning happy hour food and drink specials. Pick your chill factor -- air-conditioned cool or patio people-watching wearing your killer sunglasses. 5Church Atlanta, at the corner of 14^th and Peachtree, in Midtown throttles up a Rush Hour Remedy Monday through Thursday afternoons from 4:30-6:30 p.m. in the bar and high-tops area. Munch on ahi tuna poke with herb and cheese flatbread, PEI mussels, a charcuterie and cheese board or Prime C.A.B. Sliders ($6-$8). Tank fillers include Three Taverns Brewery Prince of Pilsen, Storypoint Chardonnay or Chateau d’Eau Viognier at $5/glass; Les Trois Couronnes Cotes-du-Rhone at $7/glass or Square Plumb & Level cabernet sauvignon-cabernet franc for $8/glass.

Dock at Drift Fish House & Oyster Bar in The Avenue East Cobb every day from 4-6 p.m. to join the crew for Oyster Happy Hour featuring $1 “Buck-a-Shuck” oysters of the day, $5 draft beer of the day and $5 house punch.

The outlook is rosy for those who relax in the bar area at Milton’s Cuisine & Cocktails for Rosé & Happy Hour every Monday-Thursday from 5-6:30 p.m. Slurp up a baker’s dozen of oysters at half price while sipping rosé wine priced at $5 a glass.

During The Big Ketch Saltwater Grill Oyster Hour, crack half the price off a dozen raw oysters from 4-6 p.m. Monday through Friday at both the Buckhead and Canton Street locations. Every Monday, enjoy a pound of peel ‘n eat shrimp at the half-pound price. Tuesdays, all bottles of wine are half off.

Caravan, carefree, to Gypsy Kitchen Gypsy Hour Monday through Friday from 4:30-6:30 p.m. for a rotating selection of wine vintages and unique varietals at $5 a glass, the perfect go-withs for tapas priced at $4-$5 each.

HOBNOB Neighborhood Tavern in Midtown pours $3 well drinks and $3 SweetWater 420 drafts every Monday through Friday from 3-6:30 p.m. HOBNOB keeps kids and parents alike happy and full by offering one free kid’s menu item free per adult entrée purchase on Sunday through Thursday nights from 5-7 p.m. at their Midtown and Brookhaven locations.

All three Ray’s Restaurants set aside time for happy hour bar and bite deals. When downtown, retreat to the calm of Ray’s in the City bar and lounge Monday through Friday, 3-6 p.m. and 9 p.m. until close. During happy hours, bar-friendly bites are half-price, including Ray’s “New Orleans” barbecue shrimp, steamed mussels, Crispy Point Judith calamari and Ray’s blue cheese chips. Raw bar is half the usual price Monday through Friday from 9 p.m. until closing (excludes cold seafood tower). Drink specials include $6 house wines by the glass, $8 Tito’s cocktails and $8 Savanah Bourbon. Enjoy live music Tuesday through Saturday evenings.

Happy hour specials flow through the bar and lounge areas of Ray’s on the River in Sandy Springs and Rays at Killer Creek in Alpharetta: Monday through Friday from 3-6 p.m. (Ray’s on the River) and 3-7 p.m. (Ray’s at Killer Creek), 9 p.m. – close at both restaurants and Sunday from 5-9 p.m. (Ray’s at Killer Creek). At both restaurants, enjoy $1 oysters on the half shell and select half-price appetizers including Ray’s brisket burger, Ray’s “New Orleans” barbecue shrimp, goat cheese pimento fritters and Ray’s blue cheese chips. Spiked punch is $6 a glass and local draft beers command $4 at both establishments; glasses of house wine are half price at Ray’s at Killer Creek and $6 at Ray’s on the River.

Marlow’s Tavern, Willy’s and Babalu are Sweet on Charity, Donate Almost $75K this Summer

That mighty mouthful satisfies senses even more when you know the restaurant behind it is reaching out to help others and aid local communities. The June 26 grand opening event for Babalu Tapas & Tacos in Midtown raised $10,426.96 in donations to be split between the Atlanta Children’s Shelter and Shepherd Center. Look for more community benefitting opportunities from this new hotspot!

Thanks to guests’ donations, Marlow’s Tavern locations raised nearly $40K for Special Olympics Georgia in June, exceeding expectations. In return for their June generosity, Marlow’s gave each guest donating $1 or more a $5 gift card to use on a future visit. The 19^th Annual Marlow’s Tavern Golf Classic in Roswell on Sept. 18, hosted by Marlow’s Tavern and Sterling Spoon Culinary Management, will drive even more funds toward Special Olympics Georgia.

Willy’s Mexicana Grill strives to inspire youth and support children in our community through donations and hands-on learning experiences. Calling upon loyal customers to pitch in during June and help raise $22K in 22 days, Willy’s was thrilled to surpass its goal and present a total of $25,585 to The Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Atlanta. Willy’s presented the check July 11 at The Boys & Girls Clubs’ “Salsa, Salsa” event, where the Brookhaven club proved to be hot stuff, winning the competition.

Airport Travelers, Try this New Wine Blend: HBF and Premier Airport Wine Bar Chain Vino Volo

Life’s a journey. If your journeys fly through airports across the USA, drop this info pin in your oenophile notebook. Atlanta-based Hojeij Branded Foods (HBF) is joining forces with Vino Volo, a premium wine bar with more than 40 locations in 32 airports across the U.S. and Canada. Vino Volo (Italian for “wine flight”) provides a sophisticated and relaxing wine experience for airport travelers who want to enjoy wines from around the world by the glass while waiting for their flights. In Vino Volo wine shops, travelers can select high-quality wines -- perfect for that last-minute gift. The merger is a natural blend. According to HBF CEO Regynald G. Washington, “Both HBF and Vino Volo are widely recognized for operational expertise, top-notch guest service and a strong commitment to employees.” Like HBF, Vino Volo has received extensive accolades from the industry, counting 34 "Airport Revenue News" awards including "Food Operator with Highest Regard for Customer Service" 11 years in a row and “Best Airport Wine Bar” at the Airport Food & Beverage awards. The coupling of HBF and Vino Volo embraces and enhances the spirit of HBF founder Wassim Hojeij’s vision of “enhancing the passenger’s dining experience, one airport at a time.”

Hit The Big Ketch for Sun, Sea and Sandwiches during National Sandwich Month in August

National Sandwich Month spreads across August like PB&J, but with much more intriguing options (not to dis the lunchbox staple). Atlantans fishing for a beach feel and seaworthy sandwiches can steer to The Big Ketch Saltwater Grill Buckhead or Canton Street locations to pull in prize “Ketch” sandwiches, each served with your choice of side item, Aug. 1-31. A ciabatta grouper sandwich ($17.95) layers blackened grouper, bacon, tomato, Arcadian lettuce and honey horseradish dill sauce within a toasted ciabatta bun. Or, drift toward the luxury of lobster grilled cheese boasting chunks of lobster meat sautéed in butter and nestled amid melty American cheese, tomatoes and jalapeño cornmeal Texas toast ($16.95). Cool and lovely, the shrimp and crab salad croissant ($14.95) heaps a salad of large diced shrimp, lump crab meat, Meyer aioli and diced celery onto a buttered and toasted PFG croissant, dressed with tomato and lettuce. Unlike the usual beachy chow, these are all sandwich, no sand.

What’s New on Pinterest: All About Avocados

Getting peeled, smashed and smeared can be the pits. Unless you’re an avocado. All About Avocados goes beyond guac and avocado toasts, adding the creamy dreamy fruit to nearly everything. Stock up and add its healthful riches to egg rolls, blackened shrimp cucumber bites, dips, hummus, deviled eggs, sandwiches, soups and “supergreen” ice cream. Elevate chickpeas and feta, caprese salads, vinaigrettes and even grilled cheese with a touch of avocado. That secret pesto sauce ingredient? You guessed it.

#Foodgram: Drizzle and Dip

Skip the 24-hour trip to Cape Town, South Africa and visit Sam Linsell’s blog Drizzle and Dip instead. The Cape Town food stylist-writer-photographer-cookbook author-baker hunts down the delish. Lick the screen? You might.

Appetizing Aperture

If you want to keep a rosé from wilting (punchy pun intended), follow Drift Fish House & Oyster Bar beverage manager Jose Pereiro’s lead and make it a slushie. Jose’s Frosé ($9) is equally refreshing on the first sip and the last. Ah, summer’s savior, found.