Egging You on to Make Easter Meal Reservations

The hunt is on for prized places to honor Easter over brunch, lunch or dinner on Sunday, April 1. Dig into our dining destination-filled basket for egg-ceptional restaurants offering special menus, buffets and some Easter Bunny sightings. Feast on roasted meats and an eggs-traordinary salad bar, dining indoors or out on the patio, at Chama Gaucha Brazilian Steakhouse in Buckhead and receive a complimentary slice of carrot cake for dessert when enjoying Easter brunch from 1-3:30 p.m. ($34.50 per person) or Easter dinner ($44.50 per person). A few more options, already in our basket (well worth repeating), are 5Church Atlanta in Midtown's Colony Square, classy American Cut in The Shops Buckhead Atlanta and elegant Livingston Restaurant & Bar in Midtown’s historic Georgian Terrace Hotel. Bring appetites and smartphones/cameras for lovely Easter photos. Go ahead and hop over to our blog list – and remember to crack open the reservation links or phone numbers to save your seats or you might be dining on Peeps and jelly beans instead of succulent roasted meats and garden-fresh salads.

Raving about Ramen Mondays at 5Church Atlanta

Ramen heads, prepare to be bowled over -- in a comforting, soul-warming way -- by the new Ramen Monday menu at 5Church Atlanta in Midtown. Chef Scotley Innis builds three different noodle bowl combinations with fresh, bright veggies and meats, poultry or vegetarian-pleasing proteins like tofu every Monday, in addition to the regular menu. Chopstick, spoon and slurp through offerings such as braised oxtail with scallions, bean sprouts, kimchi, napa cabbage, portobello mushrooms, pickled scotch bonnet peppers, soft-boiled egg and cilantro ($16); seared duck with scallions, bok choy, soft-boiled egg, shiitake mushrooms and edamame ($19) or tofu with bok choy, edamame, shiitake mushrooms, nori, Fresno chili peppers and carrots ($14). All combos top an umami-rich ramen and broth base layer. Kirin Ichiban and Kirin Ichiban Light ($6 each) add to the authenticity of the meal. Romance the ramen at lunch, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. or dinner, beginning at 5 p.m. Walk-ins and reservations accepted. 

5Church and Terminus City BBQ Slurp Up Winning Soups at Orpheus Brewing's Souper Bowl

Slurps up! Shout out to 5Church Atlanta and chef Kevin Gillespie's Terminus City BBQ for winning big at Orpheus Brewing's Souper Bowl on Saturday, Feb. 3! 5Church executive chef Scotley Innis' smoked tomato basil with white cheddar garlic croutons took home People's Choice: Best Vegetarian and Critic's Choice: Best Creamy, while Terminus City's Brunswick Stew warmed hearts to win People's Choice: Best Chunky. Proceeds from the event were donated to the Atlanta Community Food Bank.

Mix and Mingle at 5Church Atlanta Social Hour

 

Brush away the workday and enter a state of post-stress relaxation with friends by taking advantage of Social Hour at 5Church Atlanta on Peachtree at 14^th in the heart of Midtown. Enjoy quality time catching up with friends over a selection of mouthwatering small plates, beer and wines every Monday through Thursday from 4:30-6:30 p.m. “Eats” ($8) include short rib sliders with pickled red onion and homemade BBQ sauce on a pretzel bun; Margherita flatbread topped with crispy basil, fresh mozzarella and heirloom tomatoes; Prince Edward Island mussels in a tomato garlic broth; duck poutine; and smoked chicken wings in blonde BBQ sauce. For $6, kick back with glasses of Clos Pegase merlot or Riff pinot grigio. Beer specials include Highland Gaelic ale and Modelo Especial for $4 each. Hurry in. There’s a spot waiting for you -- a seat at one of the high-tops or at the bar.

Appetizing Aperture: 5Church's Rest My Ruby Rest Cocktail

Aromatherapy devotees trust citrus oils and essences to energize and uplift spirits -- two qualities guaranteed to brighten any winter day or night. So why not imbibe those citrusy elements in a cocktail, like “Rest My Ruby Rest” at 5Church Atlanta in Midtown. Lead bartender Keyatta Mincey dry shakes a mix of Reposado Patrón tequila, hibiscus syrup, lemon juice, Peychaud’s bitters, 18.21 hibiscus bitters and egg white, reshakes with ice and double-strains the works into a vintage-style glass. Expressed lemon peel and a hibiscus bloom garnish this glass of Florida-ish sunshine.

There’s Still Time to Throw Together a Holiday Party

Party? No party? PARTY! Not everyone’s an early bird in the party-planning department. Procrastinators, take heart. Atlanta restaurants can still accommodate parties from intimate dinners and lively chef’s tables to cocktail receptions for larger groups. Your guests will never know you “threw a little something together” as they merrily celebrate the holidays hobnobbing with great food and spirits.

Multiple Locations

HOBNOB Neighborhood Tavern sets a casual environment perfect for large groups desiring to party in both Midtown and Town Brookhaven. Enjoy a mouthwatering menu of appetizers, gourmet pizzas, burgers and other favorites in laid-back dining rooms or kick back with a high gravity craft beer on the patios. Want it all? Consider a buyout to use the entire restaurant or patio at both locations or book the semi-private dining area at HOBNOB in Brookhaven. To discuss your visions, fees and menus, call 404-968-2288 for Midtown, 404-464-8971 for Town Brookhaven.

Mouths water at the mention of Ray’s Restaurants graced with award-winning chefs and impeccable service at three locations across the city. A dedicated events manager at each Ray’s Restaurant trims stress right out of the picture -- what a gift!

In downtown Atlanta, Ray's in the City welcomes guests into private and semi-private rooms and areas glowing with rich woods and ambient lighting. Consider breakfast or brunch buffets, lunch, pre-selected dinner menus or exciting dinner buffets with stations for stir-fry, pasta, salad, carving or made-to-order sushi. Toast to a full range of bar ideas including mimosa or bloody mary bar add-ons. Host parties of various sizes, from up to 16 guests for a Wine Cellar dinner to 75 guests in the Peachtree Room overlooking Peachtree Street. Email cityevents@raysrestaurants.com.

Alongside the Chattahoochee River in Sandy Springs, Ray's on the River can host riverside events “outside” in the Grand Pavilion -- a covered, temperature-controlled environment accommodating up to 120 guests seated or 150 guests for cocktails, as well as a band or DJ and a dance floor. Inside the restaurant, host up to 70 guests for dinner or cocktails in the Private Dining Room and up to 30 guests in the semi-private River Room. Options vary, including pre-selected lunch and dinner menus, appetizers, platters, hors d’oeuvre, full buffets and chef-attended carving stations. Email riverevents@raysrestaurants.com.

In Alpharetta, Ray's at Killer Creek encompasses several space options to accommodate up to 70 guests. Seat up to 26 guests for dinner in the private Cellar with its warm woods, stone hearth and fireplace or up to 60 guests in the dividable Wine-Jordan Room, flanked by fine wines and a private courtyard. Outside, up to 70 guests can enjoy family style seating in the covered and heated Creek Room overlooking Foe’s Killer Creek. Email creekevents@raysrestaurants.com.

Sports fans look to Taco Mac for game days, but did you know the spirited locales score points in the fa-la-la field for holiday parties? Sure, you can have wings and beer – and everyone’s favorite American fare, wine and cocktails as well. Count on loads of space for larger parties and some locations can host events in private dining areas. Throw together an impromptu gathering or call ahead to accommodate larger groups.

Intown

5Church Atlanta sets the scene for swanky holiday parties at Peachtree and 14th streets in Midtown, beginning with the moment guests step out of their cars to complimentary valet parking. The rooftop patio accessorizes sparkly attire with the dazzling lights of Peachtree Street. Inside, large-scale artwork adds drama to private dining areas for groups large and small. See spaces, hors d’oeuvre and menu package ideas here. Email sales@5churchatlanta.com or call 404-400-3669.

Nostalgic glamour meets modern glitz at American Cut in The Shops Buckhead Atlanta. Three floors of top-notch party options woo you: private dining in The Cut Bar on street level, private dining rooms with seating capacities of 14 and 42 guests within the second-floor dining level, and an indoor/outdoor rooftop setting of The Regent Cocktail Club. Thrill guests with starry skies, striking skyline views and handcrafted cocktails at The Regent Cocktail Club where there’s even space for a jazzy trio or other live entertainment. Guests at American Cut and The Regent Cocktail Club enjoy three hours of complimentary covered deck parking. Contact events@ldvatlanta.com.

For the ultimate in understated elegance for special occasions and holiday parties, buy out Aria, Gerry Klaskala’s acclaimed Buckhead restaurant. Call the restaurant at 404-233-7673 for more information.

Host the holiday shindig in Atlanta’s oldest continuously licensed tavern. Lively Atkins Park Restaurant & Bar in Virginia-Highland welcomes guests into an unpretentious environment where an upstairs room accommodates 30 guests for a sit-down dinner or 50 guests for a cocktail reception. Call 404-876-7249 for more information.

Create an event that’s sure to impress at Bulla Gastrobar in Midtown. Inspired by tapas restaurants of Spain, Bulla offers options for private luncheons or dinners with three-course or tapas-style menus and cocktail parties featuring Bulla’s signature wines and handcrafted spirits. Call 404-858-1577 for more information.

Invite guests to enjoy an American bistro-style party at The Federal in Midtown. Big group? The more the merrier at a restaurant buyout. Two-hour validated parking is offered in the adjacent 1010 Midtown parking deck. Email info@TheFederalAtl.com.

Food 101 American Kitchen & Bar in Sandy Springs excels in creating joyful memories wrapped around fabulous meals, service and special events. The local landmark restaurant’s private dining room can accommodate 40 people seated or 50 for a cocktail reception. Food 101 experts will help plan specialized menus and events within budget to keep the ho-ho-ho in your holidays. Follow this link to learn more or call 404-424-9773.

gusto! sets up a “Build your own gusto!” self-serve buffet that’s a huge, healthy hit with crowds of 20 people or more. The package includes mixed greens and Jasmine brown rice, grilled chicken and grilled portabella mushrooms plus two gusto! flavors: chile citrus barbecue, tahini cucumber feta, sweet soy Sriracha, chipotle mango avocado, apple curry peanut or Buffalo buttermilk blue. For groups of 20 folks or less, gusto! offers “Bowled Orders.” Add tea, lemonade and dessert platters for an additional charge; $100 order minimum for delivery. Contact Ryan Harrison at gusto! Ponce, 770-856-7417; Trey Strawn at gusto! Peachtree, 678-800-8372.

An event at Gypsy Kitchen transports guests to a beautiful, out-of-the-ordinary destination where Spanish cuisine mingles with foods inspired by the spice trade of India, Morocco and other countries. Chefs can create tasting menus, elaborate spreads or passed appetizers matched by a splendid bar program rich in Old World-style wines, craft cocktails and European beers. Contact Elizabeth Ridgway at Elizabeth@sphospitality.com or call 404-964-9253.

Himitsu impresses guests with “omotenashi,” the Japanese concept of selfless hospitality. The luxurious Japanese craft cocktail lounge located a few doors down from Umi in Buckhead hosts buyouts (65 guests seated, 100 standing) as well as semi-private events in the upper-level mezzanine (28 guests seated, 40 standing). Menus are specially created for each occasion, whether it’s passed appetizers, serving stations or a seated dinner. Consider serving sake and signature craft cocktails from Himitsu alongside Umi’s trademark beautiful sushi rolls and small bites from executive chef Fuyuhiko Ito and pastry chef Lisa Ito. Himitsu means “secret” in Japanese; after the party, the word will be out about the wonderfully memorable experience.

Located on the Westside under the White Provisions building, Ormsby’s feels like one of the city’s best-kept secrets. But it’s a leading destination for gatherings and celebrations of all sizes and stripes, thanks to a variety of games (shuffleboard, darts, bocce ball, board games and pool) perfect for socializing. With a wide selection of craft beers and a menu of classic and creative gastropub favorites, it’s a casual crowd-pleaser. Contact Leslie Battle, lbattle@ormsbysatlanta.com or 404-968-2033.

Red Beard Restaurants -- Gunshow in Glenwood Park and Revival in Decatur -- offer private and semi-private rooms accommodating small to large parties. For sizeable crowds, buy out one of the restaurants. The expert staff tailors menus and bar packages to suit, offering wines by the glass or bottle, beer, specialty cocktails and more. Both restaurants happily handle vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free and food allergy sensitive needs. Gunshow‘s open kitchen, shared dining room and daily changing, family style menu lends itself to groups of 50-70, corporate buyouts or a group reservation for 13-24 guests. Chef Joey Ward pulls platters and desserts from the night’s menu, and individual chefs will visit guest tables with serving platters bearing their creations. Revival’s versatile floor plan seats lunch for 10, dinner for 25 or a cocktail party for 50 guests, and family style menus please for groups of 20-50 guests with a choice of soup or salad, entrée, chef-selected trimmings and a dessert. Contact events@redbeardrestaurants.com.

Storico Fresco Alimentari in Buckhead sets a Chef’s Table in the heart of the kitchen where guests revel while enjoying great food, wine and all the sights and sounds of a busy kitchen. Choose from different menu options that can include multiple courses, wine pairings or even family style pastas at the Chef’s Table, Commissary Kitchen and other options within this authentic Italian restaurant. Move quickly to lock in a date. For details and dates, email reservations@storicofresco.com.

Hurry! Sweet Charlie’s in Buckhead is offering 10 percent off holiday catering for orders booked before Dec. 1. An ice cream roll party at your place? Now that’s a novel and chill idea. Roll with it by contacting their catering staff.

With Victorian-era decor and ambiance, The Blind Pig Parlour Bar provides an intimate and sophisticated environment for dining and drinking for up to 80 guests. The 1920s-inspired Buckhead speakeasy features craft cocktails, small plates and live entertainment -- all in a smoke-free facility -- and is available as an event space any day of the week. Contact sales and events manager April Pitman, april@sphospitality.com or 404-931-1251.

The Southern Gentleman celebrates the essence of the South, and relaxed, yet polished, entertaining plays a major role. Treat guests to a fresh, modern and locally sourced take on Southern cuisine with handcrafted cocktails. Expansive space accommodates up to 150 guests, and dinner menus begin at $35 per person. Patio parties, group dinners and private, customized bourbon, rye or whiskey tastings are perfectly delightful ideas. Contact Elizabeth Ridgway at Elizabeth@sphospitality.com or call 404-964-9253.

Outside the Perimeter

Milton’s Cuisine & Cocktails in historic Crabapple provides a charming setting for parties of eight to 200 guests. Follow this link for a taste of what’s in store when hosting an event in the restored areas of the farmhouse including the Breezeway (16 guests), the Milton Room (40 guests), the Mayfield Room (24 guests), the Broadwell Room (12 guests), the Banquet Porch (40 seated) or the Bar (32-50 guests). Contact sales and events manager Jill Hayes at Jill@miltonscuisine.com or 678-431-8753.

Celebrate with sustainable seafood and spirits at Brine Modern Seafood Shack in Alpharetta’s beautiful Avalon development. Come casual for Cape Cod meets Santa Monica style with awesome private dining options for events of all sizes and occasions and oceans of free parking. For more information, contact elizabeth@sofried.com.

Stop flip-flopping on whether to have a party or not and coast into beachy holiday party bliss at The Big Ketch Saltwater Grill - Canton Street in charming Roswell. Come ashore to seafood, cocktails and casual vibe where heels and Hawaiian shirts are equally appropriate. For inquiries about large parties and events, email events@tbkroswell.com.

Chicken and the Egg in Marietta offers intimate, private chef’s table dining for 24-28 guests around custom-made, distressed wood tables. For more information, contact Elizabeth Taft at 678-388-8813 or elizabeth@sofried.com.

Beyond the Perimeter, Seed Kitchen & Bar and Stem Wine Bar in East Cobb provide lunch, dinner and cocktail party options and copious free parking. At Seed, select from prix fixe brunch, lunch and dinner menu options or mix and match from menus for get-togethers of 10 to 50 guests for dinner, more for cocktails on the patio. Download Seed’s Event Planning Guide for more space details and a sample menu. Stem Wine Bar is a mighty “vine” option for a private lunch event Monday through Saturday, a private wine dinner or a restaurant buyout for groups of up to 40 seated or 60 for cocktails. Contact Chris McNeill, general manager, at cmcneill@eatatseed.com or 678-214-6888.

Cruise to Drift Fish House & Oyster Bar at The Avenue in East Cobb for a deliciously doable venture thrilling seafarers and landlubbers alike. Seat up to eight guests in the Wine Room, Oyster Bar or at a Chef’s Table. Groups of up to 20 guests can be seated at one table or 28 at multiple tables in the Shiplap Room. Deck the halls outside, hosting 26 guests in the covered patio area or up to 50 on the full patio. Buyouts are available. Follow this link for more information or call 770-635-7641.

Star Grazing

Christina Hendricks took a break to grab dinner at popular Midtown hotspot 5Church Atlanta. “Mad Men” star Hendricks, in town filming NBC’s “Good Girls,” relaxed at the bar for a couple of hours, enjoying executive chef Scotley Innis’ beef carpaccio with white truffle aioli and crispy Yukons and PEI mussels with toasted garlic, tomato, lime and grilled bread.

Midtown, “Take In” for Lunch via 5Church Complimentary Lunch Delivery

Say “Oh, bag it!” to boring al-desko lunches and order in, taking advantage of 5Church Atlanta’s new complimentary weekday lunch delivery service in the Midtown Business District. 5Church neighbors within the area bordered by 11th, 15th, West Peachtree and Juniper streets can chow on lunch classics with a twist from executive chef Scotley Innis. Steak tacos, salmon BLT, 5Church lamb burger, crabcake sandwiches, steak salad, margarita flatbread or other mouthwatering menu selections would sure perk up that lunchtime team meeting or add tasty incentive to buckle down and crank out work over a delicious in-cubicle lunch. No need to break the thought train to step outside; 5Church delivers right to you, Monday-Friday from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. For more information, visit www.5churchatlanta.com/lunch-delivery/. To schedule your lunch delivery or find out more about in-office catering, call (404) 400-3669 x 0 or email delivery@5churchatlanta.com.

Along Came a Cider to Sit Down Beside Her at 5Church Atlanta - Urban Tree Cidery Rooftop Tap Takeover Sept. 7

In a case of the apple staying close to the tree, Urban Tree Cidery, a family-owned and -operated cidery in West Midtown, comes to nearby 5Church Atlanta for the last Tap Takeover of the summer season on the restaurant’s rooftop patio. An Urban Tree Cidery representative will talk a bushel and a peck about the whole grove-to-glass process at the 5-7:30 p.m. takeover on Thursday, Sept. 7. Enjoy flagship ciders, including Classic (crisp, slightly sweet), Original (semi-dry European classic with apple notes) and Barrel-Aged (crafted in Nicaraguan rum barrels with oaky hints), served as a flight of four ($20) or as single pints ($7). If a cocktail is the apple of your eye, try 5Church lead bartender Keyatta Mincey’s special cider cocktail. Small plates nourish; beer, wine and cocktails flourish; and games of Jenga, shuffleboard and foosball do playful times encourage.

Appetizing Aperture

Spoon into a generous bowl of shrimp and grits at 5Church Atlanta, a dinner dish that’s a little bit Southern comfort food and a little bit of a coastal vacation. Roasted shrimp float on a sea of stone-ground grits along with pork belly and rich tomato gravy ($25).

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.

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.

Attack of the Killer Tomato Festival Blossoms with Chefs and Mixologists July 16

Better Boys and Early Girls, the ninth annual Attack of the Killer Tomato Festival is your kind of fruit fest, ripe with tomato-rich treats and concoctions created by dozens of Atlanta’s best chefs and mixologists and 50 local farmer friends. A few plum personalities to look for at the Georgia Organics benefit: 5Church Atlanta chef Scotley Innis; Aria owner/chef Gerry Klaskala and mixologist Stefano Gandossi; Gunshow executive chef Joey Ward and mixologist Mercedes O’Brien; Milton’s Cuisine & Cocktails executive chef Derek Dollar; Ormsby’s chef Nick Anderson; The Southern Gentleman executive chef Matthew Ridgway; and chef Tomas Lee of Midtown Takorea & Ssam Bar. Ford Fry’s tribute to summer’s revered heirlooms plants itself at Park Tavern in Midtown this Sunday, July 16 from 1-5 p.m. Like killer tomatoes, this festival flourishes rain or shine. Buy tickets in advance: $45 general admission; $40 Georgia Organics members; $125 Lexus VIP (early access and VIP area exclusives); and $74.95 “Good Grit” package including six issues of “Good Grit” magazine. A limited number of $75 general admission tickets will be available at the door. Killer tomatoes, we surrender already.

ATLien Brunch Sighting at 5Church Atlanta July 8

ATLiens are landing at 5Church Atlanta in Midtown, and they’re staying for Saturday brunch. No need to feel like an outcast, join them for crunk, craft cocktails and a brunch menu served up from 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Singer Wednesday returns, performing Outkast “ATLiens” hits. Share a carafe of mimosas or sangria with your crew or steer everyone toward the build-your-own bloody mary bar before navigating the well-curated brunch menu. Morning glories will devour chicken and waffles with maple syrup ($17); tender crabcakes and poached eggs with toasted bread, spinach and jalapeño beurre blanc ($17); or “Preacher’s Breakfast” of three eggs, stone-ground grits, bacon and braised greens ($13). Post-morning fare favorers may prefer holding onto the savory signature 5Church lamb burger ($14); or the full-on bistro steak “a la brasa” with two eggs any style, chimichurri and french fries ($23). Omelets and sandwiches please everyone, ATLiens included.

Scooping the 11th Annual Slow Food Ice Cream Social at Peachtree Road Farmers Market June 24

Slow Food Atlanta’s annual Ice Cream Social churns out Buckhead’s smoothest route to a brain freeze on Saturday, June 24 from 12:30-2:30 p.m. at The Cathedral of St. Philip. Lick summer heat tasting ice creams and sorbets by top local chefs -- including those from 5Church Atlanta in Midtown and American Cut in Buckhead -- and ambitious amateurs then vote for your favorites. We suggest shopping the market in the morning then, when the melty-midday time arrives, pull out spoon and ticket for an ice cream pick-me-up. Tickets are $15 per adult and $5 for children in advance and include an all-access pass to each and every flavor. Sells out, so scoop up tickets here.

5Church Atlanta Hosts First Anniversary Party with Prix Fixe Menu, Music, Champagne Toast June 22

Fun to be one! Join the 5Church Atlanta crew in celebrating year number one on Thursday, June 22. Guests can enjoy a special four-course prix fixe menu with complimentary beer, wine and cocktails as dinner, served 5-10 p.m., opens the evening. Priced at $75 per person, the menu highlights the signature style and modern edge of new executive chef Scotley Innis. An abbreviated à la carte menu also will be available. The Nice Guys DJs turn out the tunes beginning at 8 p.m. Expect entertainment surprises as the evening moves toward a Champagne toast at 10 p.m. and late night festivities. To make reservations, call (404) 400-3669 or visit the restaurant online. Owner Ayman Kamel and his team give a shout out to the Midtown community for extending such a warm welcome and giving enthusiastic support during the restaurant’s first year at Colony Square.

Free Margaritas and Fun Galore for Father’s Day, June 18

He’s king of the hill, top dog at the grill and ruler of the remote. Give Dad a break from kingly duties by whisking him away for a Father’s Day outing involving eating and drinking at Atlanta’s fun-loving and fancy restaurants. Specials are popping up all over town on Sunday, June 18.
 
Intown

Indulge Dad with an elegant prime rib dinner at American Cut. The upscale steakhouse in The Shops Buckhead Atlanta serves this Sunday special from 4-9 p.m. for $52 per person (excludes tax and gratuity). Dad can choose either the OG 1924 Hotel Caesar salad or Beeler’s Farm bacon to whet his appetite. For the second course, slice into a tender cut of 12-ounce dry-aged prime rib served with beef jus, horseradish sauce and a choice of one menu side dish. Lucky dad, Father’s Day falls on a Sunset Sunday, a monthly after-brunch party hosted by American Cut’s upstairs neighbor, The Regent Cocktail Club. On the third Sunday of each month from April through September, the rooftop cocktail lounge is open from 3-11 p.m. From 3-6 p.m. enjoy $35 mimosa carafes and $10 tequila cocktails. Just the place to let Dad know he’s “tops” in your book.

 5Church Atlanta has a dad-friendly weekend brunch and à la carte dinner menu featuring hearty options such as the “60 second” prime New York strip, the bistro steak “a la brasa,” the 5Church lamb burger, Atlantic diver scallops (dinner only) and the A-5 Kagushima wagyu rib-eye (dinner only). For a more intimate option, Dad can share the 60-day dry-aged porterhouse for two with his special someone. Call 404-400-3669 or visit 5churchatlanta.com for reservations.

Dad’s well worth his salt, soJefe’s Tacos & Tequila in Brookhaven is treating Dad to one free margarita on Father's Day. He’ll enjoy the icy concoction while building a taco playlist from Jefe’s multitude of creative handfuls. Another margarita or favorite brew? There in a jiff, at Jefe’s.

Dad can sleep in and still make it to Sunday brunch at Kaleidoscope Bistro & Pub. The Brookhaven eatery stands by its usual hours and menu with offerings such as Springer Mountain chicken wings, herb-crusted salmon, shrimp and grits, steak frites and, of course, the award-winning Kaleidoscope burger. Secure your Father’s Day reservation -- available all through brunch (versus the usual protocol of accepting reservations only for first 30 minutes of opening). Reservations: 404-474-9600.

Take Dad out to play in the backyard on his special day -- to Communion Cantina, the outdoor gathering spot behind Kevin Gillespie’s Decatur restaurant Revival. Dad’s assured a laid-back afternoon or evening flush with cold beer, cocktails, a small menu of Mexican food truck snacks and games such as cornhole. Open Sunday from 1-9 p.m. -- no reservations needed.

 The Federal serves Sunday brunch from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. and dinner from 5-9 p.m., so you can treat that special man in your life to traditional American steakhouse favorites. The famous 50-day dry-aged steak is sure to compete with even his grill skills. Call 404-343-3857 for reservations.

Delight Dad with a delicacy fromSublime Doughnuts on Father’s Day morning! Sublime will be rolling all his favorites into one delicious treat with their bourbon-glazed apple butter doughnut. Pick up this breakfast fit for a king at Sublime’s Georgia Tech location all day on June 18. Just in case Dad prefers sleeping in, they’re open 24 hours!   

 Midtown Takorea & Ssam Bar on Juniper Street is a fun alternative for Sunday dining, open noon-10 p.m. Executive chef Tomas Lee’s BBQ pork sliders are a Korean spin on dad’s favorite backyard barbecue meal.

 HOBNOB Neighborhood Tavern is serving up their new Champion burger this Father’s Day weekend. Featuring pork belly, provolone, house-cured kimchi and served on a brioche bun with a side of house-cut french fries or seasonal veggies, this burger is sure to be a winner.
 
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Dads who like to putz around in the garden will thrill to see Milton’s Acre, the backyard garden and a source of ingredients at Milton’s Cuisine & Cocktails. The historic Crabapple restaurant offers a three-course Father’s Day brunch menu priced at $32 per person. Among the enticing offerings are sticky toffee pecan beignets, shrimp and grits, blackened Atlantic salmon, a truffle-salted petite filet mignon and maple-bacon bread pudding. Additionally, Milton’s will offer its regular menu and “Milton’s Prime” menu of prime cuts of signature steaks, including grass-fed Delmonico rib eye, served with a choice of three sauces. For reservations, call 770-817-0161.

Craving fresh seafood? Drift Fish House & Oyster Bar features a fresh Maine lobster bar that will reel in dads from all over town. Call 770-635-7641 for reservations.

For all-day fun, go explore Vickery Creek Park, head over to Gate City Brewing to cool down and then finish it off with a patio dinner at The Big Ketch on Canton Street. For more information to plan Dad's perfect Father's Day in Historic Roswell, visit ExploreRoswell.com.

 Multiple Locations

The Big Ketch Saltwater Grill knows Dad is quite a fine catch, and they’re offering a Father’s Day feast in his honor. The $34.95 per-person haul features a crabcake, lobster tail and a skewer of grilled, blackened or jerk-style shrimp or scallops accompanied by two sides. Sail into either port, Buckhead or Canton Street in Roswell, to net this bounty.

Whether Dad’s a morning person, afternoon adventurer or night owl,Ray’s Restaurants has Father’s Day meals covered. Dad can relax while looking out on the Chattahoochee River at Ray’s on the River (770-955-1187), serving Father’s Day brunch from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. For $45.95 per adult or $22.95 per child (age 5-10), scope out generous buffets tailored to morning and afternoon/evening tastes. In Alpharetta, Ray’s at Killer Creek (770-649-0064) spreads a Father’s Day buffet from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. for $39.95 for adults or $19.95 for kids (ages 5-10). Family favorites include peel-and-eat shrimp, rosemary-roasted leg of lamb and roasted prime rib. Families planning an in-town Father’s Day adventure can launch or cap the day with a special Father’s Day meal at Ray’s in the City (404-524-9224). Brunch, offered from 10 a.m.-3 p.m., is priced at $39.95 per adult and $19.95 for children (ages 5-10). Stations are waiting for guests offering carved beef steamship round and pork shoulder, sushi, smoked salmon, charcuterie, chopped beef brisket, herb-roasted chicken and a dessert and pastry bar. Each restaurant offers its own à la carte dinner menu from 5-9 p.m., with appetizing steak options.

 Gift Idea

For the king of the grill, theKUDU Safari Braai is the ideal gift for Dad this Father’s Day. He is sure to rule the backyard barbecue season with this portable grill boasting elevated grates providing a range of heat levels that can simultaneously sauté, sear, fry, boil, smoke and steam all over an open flame.

Want to see a KUDU in action and eat some great food? Come out to Yebo Beach House on Father's Day from 12:30 - 4 p.m. and join Atlanta restaurateur Justin Anthony and his father Derek Anthony as they combine forces for an exclusive KUDU Safari Braai Cookout! Tickets are $30, and you can buy them here!

The Stars are Out, Dining Out – Celeb Sightings at Atlanta Restaurants

Hit the brakes! Here in Atlanta, you never know who will be supping one table over. Several celebs were spotted dining around town during the month of May. Umi always shines, and several May visitors added their glow. Skateboarding legend Tony Hawk spun into the Buckhead restaurant early in May. Mila Kunis and Ashton Kutcher dined at Umi on May 22, enjoying chef Fuyuhiko Ito’s sophisticated, modern Japanese cuisine centered on showcasing the freshest fish from the world’s finest markets. The two were presumably in town while Kunis films “A Bad Moms Christmas,” the sequel to “Bad Moms.” Pro basketballer Kevin Garnett of the Minnesota Timberwolves beefed up on tender Miyazaki wagyu strip, a specialty cut at American Cut in The Shops Buckhead Atlanta. Earlier this year, NASCAR driver Kyle Busch and wife Samantha pulled into 5Church Atlanta in Midtown -- making one delicious “pit stop” for the restaurant’s chef-driven, regional cuisine. The couple has been to 5Church Charlotte and thought they’d give the Atlanta location a spin. Perhaps a cruise down Peachtree was next on their GPS?   

5Church Atlanta Welcomes Scotley Innis as Executive Chef

Owner Ayman Kamel and his team at 5Church Atlanta are excited to welcome new executive chef Scotley Innis, who was formerly sous chef at South City Kitchen in Midtown and executive chef at Ormsby’s in West Midtown. Innis brings a more “up-tempo” Southern feel to the menu, drawing upon a personal pantry of ingredients: Caribbean heritage, a knack for applying unorthodox techniques to traditional dishes, a penchant for proving to locals that modernizing Southern staples yields extraordinary results and a wealth of culinary experiences. Innis began his culinary career working in local Jamaican-style restaurants in New York before heading south and earning his culinary degree from Le Cordon Bleu. He moved up through kitchens at Marriott Hotels and Au Pied de Cochon at the InterContinental Hotel, immersed himself in the role of executive chef at Cajun/Creole Mudcatz Bayou Bar and Grill in Dunwoody and honed skills in fine dining cuisine at Tom Collichio’s Craftbar in Buckhead. Innis moved to Ormsby’s in 2009 and became executive chef in 2011, building a menu of from-scratch comfort food and fresh pub favorites that relied heavily on local produce and herbs. Joining the team at South City Kitchen furthered his knowledge of Southern cuisine. Now, Innis is excited about joining the 5Church Atlanta family and providing guests with a dining experience they’ll rave about.

Foodie Flag: Atlanta Food & Wine Festival Swizzles & Stirs Midtown June 1-4

The Atlanta Food & Wine Festival spreads its richness across Midtown like avocado on toast with a side of champagne over the Thursday-Sunday weekend of June 1-4. The four-day bacchanalia of all-you-can-indulge-in food, wine, beer and spirit tastings and classes features the region’s top food and drink products; local, regional and international chefs and their creations; and industry experts. Saturday morning, you’ll find an assortment of Sublime Doughnuts accompanying Sublime founder Kamal Grant, who will be making a guest appearance at the decadent Beer for Breakfast class. Repping Gunshow are chef Joey Ward, who’ll be speaking at the Saturday afternoon seminar, "Down the Southern Street: Food Stories of the South," and “Cocktail Cart Conductor” Mercedes O’Brien shaking the Coca-Cola tent. Guests will find Scotley Innis from 5Church Atlanta in the tasting tents. Another reason this festival’s fab -- Aria chef/owner Gerry Klaskala is on the advisory council. The event menu includes general and tasting passes as well as individual dinner, lunch and brunch events, Masterclasses and Connoisseur weekend packages. Choose the ticket package ($55-$1,800) that best suits you and start drooling about this easy-eating weekend.