America’s Next Top Chef?

With the recent cheflebrity of local Top Chef finalist and new Creative Loafing columnist, Richard Blais, several local chefs have decided to get in on the action. This Sunday, chefs from all over the state will line up to show casting directors that they’re packing more than their knives at the casting call for an upcoming season of Bravo’s hit series. With all the culinary talent Atlanta has packed into this city, many great chefs are not going to make the cut. And, since we all know that how one does on camera is just as important (maybe even more so) as how they do in the kitchen, many creative chefs who are the strong, silent type are going to appear to be side dishes next to natural performers.

Nevertheless, I'm excited at the prospect of having the chef of one of my favorite local eateries being showcased on the show! Atlanta has a lifetime supply of chefs who are at the top of their game and I hope Bravo recognizes it. Good luck to all the brave chefs who make it out to the audition and let’s all hope that the next Top Chef is one we Atlantans are proud to call our own and are fortunate enough to share with the rest of the world. Here is a brief list of chefs that I know are trying out. *(Feel free to add to the list if you know more!)

• Ben McPherson at Eclipse di Luna


• Craig Richard at La Tavola Trattoria


• Kevin Gillespie at Woodfire Grill


• Hector Santiago at Pure Vida


• Travis Collum at (the newly opened) Kozmo Gastro Pub

Bonne chance!

Eclipse di Luna Hosts Atlanta Photography Group's Second Annual Silent Aucion

Last night was the Atlanta Photography Group's second annual silent auction event. The bidding began at only $10 for many of the items. Eclipse di Luna provided complimentary appetizers for the guests, and there were tons of cocktail specials at the bar. Over 60 people attended the event, and many left with more than one item. I was outbid on four of the items I bid on. I guess that's what happens when you're refilling your glass of wine at the bar!

The Atlanta Photography Group's primary goal is to promote and support contemporary photography as a significant form. It seeks to challenge photographic conventions, stimulate new thinking and exploration of experimental forms of photographic expression.

Milk And Cookies With Martha

Only Martha Stewart would serve milk and cookies at a book signing. And not just any cookies.....soft ginger snaps, divine chocolate chip, chocolate thumbprint, traditional sugar cookies and shortbread. I waited in line for hours, eating warm cookies and drinking milk, at the Georgia Aquarium for a chance to meet my crafty idol Martha. When I finally reached the domestic goddess, she signed my cookbook with perfect posture and a wide friendly smile. Her cookbook Cookies will be my new go-to baking book. Tune in to the Martha Stewart Show March 5th to watch her special on "Atlanta" featuring the Georgia Aquarium.

Wine Time!

Doctors say a glass of wine a day is good for the heart- what other excuse do you need for some quality vino? Well, Pizza Fusion is now offering another reason to drink up. Pizza Fusion, home to pizzas made with wholesome ingredients and served in earth-friendly environs, is offering select wines at half price on Tuesdays! For an even better slice of the good life, invite some friends to share a whole wheat pizza topped with fresh, good-for-you toppings.

Pizza Fusion: At the Astoria in the Aramore building at 2233 Peachtree Road; 404-351-9334.

Golden Gala

I love being a volunteer for the pet rescue organization, Adopt A Golden Atlanta. I do all that I can to help find the sweet Golden Retrievers (and a few Great Pyrenees) loving, forever homes.



That's why I'm helping to get the word out about their first annual Golden Gala this Saturday, February 21 at the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre. The evening's emcee with be 11 Alive's Paul Ossmann with his weather dog, Doppler. There will be a live auction, silent auction and a wonderful dinner accompanied by a program honoring the goldens helped through the program.



Tickets to the event are on sale until midnight tonight, so click here to buy them now! There will also be a Jeep raffle going on in which a 2009 will be given away at then event. Tickets can be bought online or at the event. Prince, the sweet boy to your left, thanks you!