HOBNOB Touts Annual Tacos & Tequilas Event Through May 15

HOBNOB Neighborhood Tavern knows how to fold ‘em -- and hold those prized bottles of top-shelf-quality tequila right above your glass. The Midtown restaurant's annual Tacos & Tequilas event takes off where Cinco de Mayo celebrations cut the party short, carrying novel margaritas and tacos from now through May 15. Detour from your usual taco folds to tortillas hugging carne asada, lettuce, pico de gallo, fresh avocado and salsa verde; pulled pork topped with coleslaw and pickled onion; and blackened fish bearing black bean corn salsa, lettuce and chipotle ranch dressing. Blueberries are antioxidant gems, all the more reason to try HOBNOB’s roasted blueberries and fresh basil margarita incorporating Herradura Silver, Cointreau and fresh lime juice along with the aforementioned roasted blueberries and basil. The smoked jalapeño margarita lights your fire with Tanteo Jalapeño tequila, Mezcal Amarás, fresh lime juice and sour mix. Southern states meet south of the border in the White Lightening margarita that swaps American Born Moonshine for traditional tequila along with Cointreau, fresh lime juice and sour mix. HOBNOB goes easy on your pesos -- tacos run $4 to $5. Make reservations online or call 404-968-2288.

So You Want Something for Peanuts? Chipotle's Bean Counters Have a Free Burrito for You Over Georgia's Tax-Free Weekend

What's better than tax-free? How bout' just plain FREE? Chipotle Mexican Grill knows what people really want, and it's not just the discount! Stop by Chipotle for a burrito . . . and a free burrito (that makes it tax free as well) during Georgia's tax-free holiday! The strategy is especially nice if you've been shopping for tax-free items instead of planning lunch or dinner. Buy a burrito, burrito bowl, an order of tacos or a salad on Wednesday, July 30 through Thursday, July 31. Save your receipt and bring it back on Saturday, August 2 or Sunday, August 3, to redeem for a FREE burrito, burrito bowl, order of tacos or a salad. This is so much better than tax free - this is EAT free! "Tax free" echoes Chipotle's determination to keep their foods additive free (or tax free, you might say), void of food additives such as hormones. Chipotle is committed to using fresh ingredients raised in a socially responsible, sustainable, and easy-on-the-animal and land manner. Watch the staff prepare your food right in front of you using naturally raised chicken, pork or beef, cilantro-lime rice, whole black or pinto beans, freshly grilled vegetables, house-made guacamole and a choice of fresh salsas. Celebrate additive-free, better-than-tax-free, dining at one of Chipotle's 12 Atlanta-area locations this week! Open from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily. Find your nearest Chipotle location here.

Restaurants and Stores Stay Open On Memorial Day So You Can Honor More, Cook and Clean Less

Memorial Day marches in each year on the last Monday in May, giving us a chance to pause and honor our servicemen and women, hang out our flags, and unofficially dive into summer with a bevy of outdoor activities. Take in one of Atlanta’s many Memorial Day activities -- reflect on the hundreds of mini-flags posted on soldiers’ graves at the Marietta Cemetery, cheer at Stone Mountain’s Salute to the Troops laser show or chill out to the sounds of the Atlanta Jazz Festival in Woodruff Park. Keep things simple on the food front by choosing to dine out or pick up something deliciously portable at these fun restaurants and stores strategically located around town and definitely open on Memorial Day.

Bonefish Grill –Johns Creek: 11705 C. Jones Bridge Road; 770-475-6668.Buford: 3420 Buford Drive; 678-546-8240.Gwinnett, The Avenue Webb Gin: 1350 Scenic Highway 124; 678-344-8945.

Chipotle -- 12 Atlanta-area locations.

Ecco -- 40 7th Street; 404-347-9555.

Fogo de Chão -- 3101 Piedmont Road; 404-266-9988.

La Tavola Trattoria -- 992 Virginia Avenue, NE in Virginia-Highland; 404-873-5430.

Marlow’s Tavern – Kennesaw: 745 Chastain Road, NW; 770-425-8777. Alpharetta: 3719 Old Alabama Road; 770- 475-1800. Vinings: 2355 Cumberland Parkway; 770-432-2526. Midtown: 950 West Peachtree Street; 404-815-0323.

Whole Foods Market – Buckhead: 77 West Paces Ferry Road, NW; 404-324-4100.Briarcliff: 2111 Briarcliff Road; 404-634-7800.Duluth-Johns Creek: 5945 State Bridge Road; 678-514-2400.Sandy Springs: 5930 Roswell Road; 404-236-0810.Ponce: 650 Ponce de Leon Avenue, NE; 404-853-1681.Harry’s Farmers Market in Alpharetta: 1180 Upper Hembree Road; 770-664-6300.Harry’s Farmers Market in Marietta: 70 Powers Ferry Road, SE; 770-578-4400.

Let No Teacher be Left Behind...Chipotle Marks National Teacher Appreciation Day With Free Food for Educators and School Faculty

Teachers have enough apples and chalk to last a lifetime but Chipotle Mexican Grill knows what they really want: free food. Tuesday, May 6 is National Teacher Appreciation Day, and educators, administrators and school faculty across Atlanta should prepare to be grilled by the staff at Chipotle Mexican Grill. The burrito- making experts behind Chipotle counters are giving you a few hours to decide on your answer: Will it be grilled chicken, tender marinated steak, savory pork carnitas, succulent barbacoa beef or purely vegetarian fillings in your FREE taco, burrito, salad or bowl.

I have told all of my friends that spend their days shaping the minds of today's youth to stop by any of the 12 Atlanta-area Chipotle restaurants from 3 - 8 p.m. today and show their staff ID to receive a free taco, burrito, salad or bowl. Chipotle uses only hormone-free, naturally raised meats, rBGH hormone-free dairy products, organically grown beans and sustainably grown veggies, fresh salsa and house-made guac to fill its customers!

Spring Makes Dining Inside, Out

Sunshine and Sunsets Lure Patio Patrons Outdoors

Nutritionists say that after hunkering down inside all winter we could use a bit more Vitamin D – which can be accomplished by spending some time outdoors. We have the perfect solution! Without getting too scientific about RDAs, we suggest you satisfy your need for a little extra “D” for dining by sliding into a chair on the primo patios of these area restaurants.


Aqua Blue shows that yes, you can find, and relax on, a patio in the ‘burbs and enjoy out-of-the-ordinary drinks and food, too. 1564 Holcomb Bridge Road in Roswell; 770-643-8886. Aqua Blue

Slide on those chic sunglasses for discreet people watching and pull up an artsy chair on Aria’s side-by-sidewalk patio. Same sexy feel, attentive service and rave-about dishes and desserts! 490 E. Paces Ferry Road in Buckhead; 404-233-7673.

See-worthy sunsets and fresh, wood-grilled seafood pair up on the patio at Bonefish Grill in Johns Creek. Alpharetta: 11705 C Jones Bridge Road; 770-475-6668.

To get a better Chattahoochee River view, you’d have to capsize your canoe. Better stay dry and dine on fresh American cuisine while relaxing on Canoe’s patio and garden dining areas. Thinking group thoughts? Go for a private, riverside chef’s table or the lawn area for outdoor events. 4199 Paces Ferry Road, NW; 770-432-2663.

Hip patios are a wrap at Chipotle, home of those fresh, made-to-order, gourmet burritos and tacos you always hear people raving about. With 11 Atlanta locations, they’re as close as your backyard. If an outdoor picnic or concert is in the plan, they’ll bag it to go!

Europeans love to enjoy their drinks and meals in sidewalk cafes. You can experience the same charm on the casual patio at European-inspired Ecco, the latest Fifth Group Restaurants® hotspot in Midtown. 40 7th Street at the corner of 7th and Cypress; 404-347-9555.

One of the closest dining patios to downtown can be found at The Food Studio®, situated in the historic King Plow Arts Center. The courtyard patio charms; the menu entices and delivers with seasonal specialties. 887 W. Marietta Street on the Westside; 404-815-6677.


Last week, we mentioned the primo-viewing of the ING Marathon from the GLOBE’s patio, and there’s plenty to watch Mondays through Saturdays throughout the year from this Technology Square perch. 75 Fifth Street, NW; 404-541-1487.

Friends, antipasti and a bottle of wine are meant to be cherished outside on a beautiful spring evening . . . keep a good thing going on La Tavola Trattoria’s covered balcony by staying on for conversation and contemporary Italian dishes. In neighborly Virginia-Highlands at 992 Virginia Avenue, NE; 404-873-5430.

Marlow’s Tavern provides proof that the days of Dickens’ dark taverns are long gone. Revel in the camaraderie of friendly faces, hearty food and refreshing libations out on the spacious patios at all Marlow’s Tavern locations. Alpharetta: 3719 Old Alabama Road; 770- 475-1800. Vinings: 2355 Cumberland Parkway; 770-432-2526. Kennesaw: 745 Chastain Road, NW; 770-425-8777.

South City Kitchen® has planned ahead to provide the same, much loved urban-South fare on two different patio environments. In Midtown, it’s a hustle and bustle sidewalk view, while Vinings invites neighbors to stroll on over and take a seat on the spacious, outdoor patio. Midtown: 1144 Crescent Avenue; 404-873-7358. Vinings: 1675 Cumberland Parkway; 770-435-0700.

The Night the Lights Went Out in Atlanta

I have never really considered myself a tree-hugging environmentalist, but, lately, it’s been very hard to ignore the signs that something is wrong with Mother Nature. From the devastating drought that our state is enduring, to the atypical tornado that struck Downtown Atlanta in the early part of March, the warning signs are everywhere and getting less and less subtle. Something that really opened my eyes to what was going on in the world OTP is the mini-series Planet Earth on the Discovery Channel. I found myself glued to the screen each time a new installment was released and realized that inside me, there may just be a “green” girl in waiting trying to escape.

This past weekend, Atlanta, along with several major cities across the globe, took a stand against global warming by turning out the lights for one hour during Earth Hour 2008, the brainchild of the World Wildlife Fund. According to Georgia Power, that one hour added up to a 4% savings in power! The 7.05 megawatt-hours saved is enough to power over 1,700 homes. Just one hour. It’s so easy to say that one person can’t make a difference, but what if we worked together? What if we did this once a month? Could we each do our part to contribute to the greater good?

I attended the Earth Hour reception, held at the Wachovia building, which was themed “green.” No kidding; green carpet, green drinks (the 360 Martini was deelish), even the cupcakes were green! (Pictured below) The guest list was a who’s who of media, business leaders and politician. WXIA broadcasted live throughout the evening, Mayor Shirley Franklin spoke and American Idol finalist Alexandrea Lushington graced us all with a few songs. I even met the WWF Panda! (Pictured bottom right) Several companies participated in the event in unique ways. Whole Foods Market, for example, hosted "green" cooking demonstrations, Chipotle Mexican Grill turned out the lights in all of their Atlanta area locations and Marlow's Tavern had an "In the Dark" party.

The dark city was amazing. There was only one building in the entire skyline which did not participate :-( . It was fun whatching watching each building go dark and trying to guess which one would go next. Over 400 buildings went dark within 10 seconds.

When you think about it, this is the only planet we have; once we destroy this one, we won’t get another. We each need to do our part to protect the environment and ensure that the Earth our children inherit will not be fatally flawed. The most recent step toward finding a solution to the challenges the Earth faces was Earth Hour, simply powerful. When the lights went off in Atlanta, a light came on inside of me. There’s got to be more we can do?

Atlanta Taverns and Restaurants are "Dublin" Up on Irish Delights for St. Patrick's Day

Green beer, green guac, Guinness drafts and Guinness brats – there’ll be plenty o’ spread to keep Irish eyes a smilin’ and Irish wannabes reveling this St. Pat’s Day in Atlanta! Green attire? That depends on if you want to add a pinch or two!

Marlow’s Tavern in Vinings starts the party at 11:30 a.m. and jigs on through midnight with green beer, Guinness brats and Irish cheddar tots at lunchtime and classic Irish cuisine during dinner hours on Monday, March 17. 2355 Cumberland Parkway; 770-432-2526.

The GLOBE brings Emerald Isle lunch and dinner favorites to Midtown on St. Patrick’s Day: sheperd’s pie ($12), fish and chips ($14), corned beef and cabbage sandwich ($10) and bangers and mash ($13). Chase your choice with a $4 Guinness draught, all day long! 75 Fifth Street, NW in Technology Square; 404-541-1487.

Trilogy fills the hungriest leprechauns with meat pastry made with braised shredded beef, Guinness and onions; sheperd’s pie and house-cured corned beef and cabbage from 5 -11 p.m. Bar opens at 4 p.m. Toe tapping to Banks & Shane begins at 8 p.m.; $10 cover. 4930 Davidson Road behind the Parkaire shopping center in East Cobb; 770-971-4770.

Woodfire Grill offers a bit of orange, as in Irish cheese, to go with the green! On Tuesday, March 18, the restaurant’s Cheese Club will hold a cheese tasting of Irish artisanal and farmstead cheeses. $20 per person includes a glass of Irish beer. Taste and learn, come back to enjoy cheese at Woodfire Grill or get some to go. 1782 Cheshire Bridge Road. Reach the restaurant by calling 404-347-9055.

Chipotle locations will be stirring up big batches of their classic green guac for St. Patrick’s devotees who like to dip south-o’-the-border. A little leprechaun snatched up the recipe, and we’re happy to share it with you! Chipotle has 12 Atlanta-area locations.

SPICY GUACAMOLE
4 large ripe avocados, peeled and pitted
2 teaspoons fresh lime juice
1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
1 large garlic clove, finely chopped
1 large serrano chili, seeded and chopped
1/4 teaspoon salt

Using fork, mash avocado with lime juice in small bowl. Add cilantro, chopped onion, chopped garlic, serrano chilies and salt and stir to combine. Makes about two cups.

Atlanta Restaurants Are Feeding Hungry Hearts

LET'S HAVE A HEART-TO-HEART ABOUT VALENTINE'S DAY
Here's some Valentine's advice straight from our hearts...go for a bite of give and a dash of take. If he treated you to the ultra-romantic night out last year, turn the tables and take him out for a meaty masterpiece. Last year, he brought Valentine's chocolate to your doorstep, this year show up with heart-shaped doughnuts. Went formal? Go comedy or country! If absence is making the heart grow fonder, send tokens of affection - we've listed some suggestions below!

KRISPY KREME HEART-SHAPED DOUGHNUTS ARE LOVE AT FIRST BITE
Why leave 'em guessing? Krispy Kreme heart-shaped doughnuts are sweet through and through! Unlike a box of chocolates, one always knows what to expect with Krispy Kreme doughnuts. The outsides are dazzling in white icing with pink, red and white sprinkles. Your beau will be heartbroken if you don't buy some of these luscious lovelies by February 14 . . . after that they're gone until next February!

Buy two-dozen doughnuts of any kind before February 14 and you'll receive 12 Share the Love Valentine's Day cards, each good for a free doughnut. Oh, and if you're sweet on lots of valentines, place your large order 48 hours in advance. Available at all Atlanta Krispy Kreme stores:

Atlanta - 295 Ponce de Leon Avenue, 404-876- 7307
Buford - 3387 Buford Drive, 770-831-1174
Duluth - 1550 Pleasant Hill Road, 770-717-5134
Lilburn - 4129 Highway 78, 770-985-2810
Marietta - 299 Cobb Parkway, South, 770-425- 0374
Riverdale - 6689 Highway 85, 770-997-6210
Roswell - 791 Atlanta Street, 770-998-0779

THERE'S SOMETHING TO BE SAID FOR HEART-FELT SPONTANEITY - THEY'RE SAYING IT WITH HUMOR AT WHOLE WORLD THEATRE'S VALENTINE'S DAY IMPROV SPECIAL
Blackberry schedules and IM buzzes are so unromantic. Turn them off and turn on your date with the spontaneity of dinner, laughs and prizes at Whole World Theatre's Valentine's Day improv comedy special. The evening's in the hands of a fun-loving twosome: Front Page News-Midtown serves dinner at 7 p.m., and Whole World Theatre brings on the laughs at 9 p.m. In between, head for the dessert bar, complete with Krispy Kreme's heart-shaped doughnuts! Per couple: show only, $75; show and dinner (including a bottle of wine), $120. For reservations, call 404-817-PLAY. 1216 Spring Street in Midtown.

WAYS TO EAT TO YOUR HEART'S DESIRE WITH THESE ATLANTA RESTAURANT SPECIALS AND GOURMET GIFT IDEAS
A dinner of authentic central Italian fare from Allegro's special "Amore Mio" menu will steal any lover's heart. The four-course Valentine's Day prix fixe menu is $100 per couple (tax, gratuity and wine excluded). Choose one dish for each course on the Valentine's menu:

First Course
Pane Sardo -- toasted Sardinian flat bread with king crab, slow-cooked tomatoes, celery micro greens with lemon juice and extra virgin olive oil
Carpaccio di Salmone -- smoked salmon carpaccio with blood oranges, cumin-flavored carrots, Pantelleria caper berries, basil micro greens

Second Course
Risotto al Balsamico -- butter and Parmigiano risotto topped with 12-year-old balsamic- marinated fresh strawberries
Cappellacci Cupido -- butternut squash cappellacci with cranberry compote and amaretti cookie crumbles

Third Course
Filetto Valentino -- grilled filet mignon with Brussels sprout au gratin flavored with horseradish and finished with black beef glaze
Branzino Casanova -- pan-seared Chilean sea bass served with crispy polenta topped with roasted tomato, capers and olive relish

Fourth Course
Dolcezza -- white chocolate and strawberry parfait
Tortino alla Nutella e Vaniglia -- chocolate and Nutella lava cake with vanilla gelato

Dinner will be served from 5:30 to 10:30 p.m. 560 Dutch Valley Road in the Belvedere condominium building; 404-888-1890. Buon appetito! www.allegroatlanta.com

Aqua Blue woos with courses featuring lobster, crab and chocolate on its Valentine's dinner menu: Charleston she crab bisque; Maine lobster and spinach salad; thyme roast tenderloin with lobster, jumbo lump crab Napoleon, winter vegetable fricassee and lobster knuckle sauce; and Aqua Blue Chocolate "Bomb" of dark and semi-sweet chocolate mousse with raspberry. $65 per person, $130 a couple, including two glasses of champagne. 1564 Holcomb Bridge Road, Roswell; 770-643-8886.

Aria, known as one of Atlanta's most romantic dining destinations, serves a four-course prix fixe Valentine's Day menu that sings of romance. $90 per person (tax, gratuity and beverages not included). Serving dinner from 6 to 10 p.m. 490 East Paces Ferry Road; 404-233-7673. http://www.aria-atl.com/

Chipotle wraps up that extra something...a receipt worth a free burrito on February 13 or 14 for any guest who purchases a gift card for their valentine this month before February 12 (minimum $10). One free burrito per gift card purchased. Chipotle has 12 Atlanta-area locations.

Sweetheart, forget the frou-frou, "meat" your man for the Valentine's meal of his dreams at Fogo de Chão, a true Brazilian churrascaria. Give your gaucho the green light on table-side carving of 15 savory cuts of meat -- as much as your man wants. Voracious for veggies? Tour the sumptuous salad bar laden with vegetables, salads, fruits, cheeses, meats and more. Lunch (served from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.) is $29.50 per person; dinner (served from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m.) is $46.50 per person. 3101 Piedmont Road;404-266-9988. http://www.fogodechao.com/

Food Studio, near the heart of the city, offers a Valentine's Day four-course prix fixe menu for $65 per person. Choose one item for each course from the special menu:

Amuse Bouche

First Course
Hammock Hallow field greens, fingerling potatoes, white asparagus with mustard vinaigretteSeared Maine diver scallops, parsnip- black truffle risotto
Grilled Carolina quail with caramelized onion tart and spiced fig compote
Butter-poached shrimp with cauliflower puree, grilled porcini mushrooms

Second Course
Grilled beef tenderloin, horseradish potatoes, Swiss chard, red wine reduction
Braised lamb shank, polenta, creamed escarole, braise reduction
Alaskan halibut, ricotta gnocchi, Brussels sprouts, hedgehog mushrooms
Spice-rubbed pork tenderloin with root vegetable hash, Tuscan kale, sherry jus

Third Course
Warm walnut tart with poached pears and rosemary sabayon
Valrhona chocolate-covered cherry bombe with sour cherry reduction.

Dinner hours are 5:30 to 10 p.m. 887 W. Marietta Street in the King Plow Arts Center; 404-815-6677. http://www.fifthgroup.com/

Marlow's Tavern in Alpharetta, Kennesaw, Midtown and Vinings are all offering different, special three-course dinner menus on Valentine's Day (regular menu also will be available). A Sexy Singles Party at the Vinings location begins at 9 p.m. on Valentine's night and will feature drink specials in the bar area. Check individual locations for menu items and pricing information. In 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; and Vinings at 2355 Cumberland Parkway, 770-432-2526. http://www.marlowstavern.com/

Morton's Steakhouse in Buckhead marries its signature steak and seafood together in one of the best Valentine's Day four-course menu deals around. For just $99 for two, each person enjoys a single-cut filet; choice of seafood options including Morton's jumbo lump crab cake, Shrimp Alexander or broiled sea scallops wrapped in bacon with apricot chutney; choice of Caesar or Morton's salad; and a choice of Morton's legendary hot chocolate cake or Key lime pie for dessert. Buckhead location ONLY, located in the Peachtree Lenox Building at 3379 Peachtree Road, NE; 404-816-6535. http://www.mortons.com/

Trilogy will have East Cobb swooning in the main dining room with a rose for each lady and menu specials. Entertainment room guests will be enamored with the Kenny Chesney and Shania Twain cover band and look-a-likes at 8 p.m. The entertainment room has a $20 cover charge per person. 4930 Davidson Road behind the Parkaire shopping center in East Cobb; 770-971-4770. http://www.trilogydining.net/

Wolf Mountain Vineyard and Winery is hosting the second of their Valentine Gourmet Dinners with wine pairings on Saturday, February 16 at 7 p.m. Cost is $80 per person, all inclusive. Dinner begins with a cellar reception featuring mini-smoked duck ravioli with ginger hoisin dipping sauce accompanied by 2006 Chanteloup. Dinner menu and pairings include:

• Stuffed jumbo shrimp with crab meat in a bed of baby mixed greens, walnuts, shaved Asiago and tossed in a roasted shallot vinaigrette; 2006 Chanteloup


• Sorbet


• Fried lobster tail and Chateaubriand duo drizzled in a rosemary demi glace with potato croquets and asparagus; 2006 Coupage


• Cheese course brings a sampling of artisan cheeses; 2005 Instinct


• Flourless chocolate cake with raspberry sauce garnished with fresh berries, served with gourmet Brazilian coffee roasted for Wolf Mountain Vineyards; 2005 Claret or 2006 Seyval Demi-Sec

For reservations, call 706-867-9862. 180 Wolf Mountain Trail in Dahlonega. http://www.wolfmountainvineyards.com/

If your Valentine loves you, and all things of food and vine, we've found some gifts to tickle their fancy:

tsp spices will spice up your relationship by delivering organic spices in perfectly-measured, freshly sealed, single-use packages. Spice gals and guys can now kiss kitchen chaos goodbye and embrace more flavorful foods at home! To learn more or to buy, visit http://www.tspspices.com/ -- and be sure to stop over at The Seasoned Palate Weblog for spicy revelations.

Even if you're not popping the question you can pop the cork on fabulous wines from Niner Wine Estates. Find your favorite on the list of high- quality varietals created from estate-grown fruit: Sauvignon Blanc, Barbera Rosato, Barbera, Sangiovese, Syrah, Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon. Available at several of Atlanta's top restaurants, Niner Wines are also available at Hinton's Wine Store located at 8455 Holcomb Bridge Road in Alpharetta; 770-641-1900.

Those passionate about their grills will cherish love tokens of Grill Wipes, Stainless Steel Wipes and the Steaming Grill Brush from Grate Chef®. Less time cleaning the grill means more time for thrills! Products are sold online at www.barbecue-store.com and in nationwide grocery stores, hardware stores and specialty stores. Grill 'em for more info at 877- 900-8415 or http://www.gratechef.com/.

CUPID SHOPS AT WHOLE FOODS MARKET!
The love-struck cherub knows less time spent driving, stopping and shopping means more time for romance! Whole Foods Market and Harry's Farmers Market have it all, from flowers to food. The rest is up to you!

Run for the roses as Whole Foods Market and Harry's Farmers Market locations in Georgia rise up with their annual Valentine's Day rose special: Two dozen roses for $19.99 through February 14! There's no excuse not to push the petals her way -- you can't miss the big outdoor wrapping tables.

Wake up to a romantic breakfast in bed for $24.99. Hit snooze and steal time for a boxed bounty for two, including mini quiches, fresh-baked muffins, healthy melon and OJ.

The Bundle of Love, $89.99, snuggles all of those Valentine's classics together for one quick pick up: Two-dozen roses OR 20 tulip stems arranged in a vase with baby's breath and greenery; Nicolas Feuillatte champagne; and Moonstruck all-natural chocolate truffles.

Seven locations are waiting to embrace you and your Valentine's Day needs:
Buckhead: 77 West Paces Ferry Road, NW; 404-324-4100
Briarcliff: 2111 Briarcliff Road; 404-634-7800
Duluth-Johns Creek: 5945 State Bridge Road; 678- 514-2400
Sandy Springs: 5930 Roswell Road; 404-236- 0810
Ponce: 650 Ponce de Leon Avenue, NE; 404-853- 1681
Harry's Farmers Market in Alpharetta: 1180 Upper Hembree Road; 770-664-6300
Harry's Farmers Market in Marietta: 70 Powers Ferry Road, SE; 770-578-4400

ATLANTA FINE WINE FESTIVAL ON FEBRUARY 16 BENEFITS VISITING NURSE - HOSPICE ATLANTA
The 4th Annual Atlanta Fine Wine Festival on Saturday, February 16, ends Valentine's week on a compassionate note. As guests enjoy food from top restaurants, like Canoe, and sample and bid on fine wines such as Niner Wine Estates, they'll be helping raise funds for a loving cause, Visiting Nurse - Hospice Atlanta. This year's event takes place from 2 - 6 p.m. on Saturday, February 16 at Mason Murer Fine Art, located at 199 Armour Drive in Atlanta; 404-879-1500. Learn more about the event's charity, auction, sponsors, participating wines and restaurants, and ticketing information at http://www.atlantafinewinefestival.com/. Info number:404-520-3113.

TRILOGY HOSTS CHRISTIAN ROCK BAND SOULSTICE
Trilogy continues to wow the neighborhood with a diverse range of entertainment! Bring the family to hear rock with a mission as Christian band Soulstice takes to the stage with fast- paced praise music on Sunday, February 17. This is not your grandpa's music. $15 cover charge per person includes a pre-show hamburger/hot dog buffet at 5 p.m. followed by the band's performance at 6:30 p.m. 4930 Davidson Road behind the Parkaire shopping center in East Cobb; 770-971-4770. www.trilogydining.net. Sneak preview the band at www.soulsticeband.net.

GOT 4 MINUTES? VAJRA STRATIGOS HAS A VALENTINE'S VIDEO WINE "TASTING" FOR YOU!
His descriptions are so vivid you can almost taste them! Vajra Stratigos, beverage director for Fifth Group Restaurants® turns to YouTube to get the word out on the perfect wines for Valentine's. Garner his insight on bubbly through white, red and dessert wine suggestions. Click here to view . . . and the list:

Aubry, Brut Rosé, Premier Cru
Chateau Ste. Michelle, "Eroica," Riesling 2006
C. Joguet, "Les Varennes du Grand Clos," Chinon 2004
Turley Wine Cellars, "Duarte," Zinfandel Contra Costa County, CA 2005
Alvear, "Solera 1927," Pedro Ximénez Spain

Fifth Group Restaurants owns and operates Ecco, Food Studio®, La Tavola Trattoria, South City Kitchen® Midtown and Vinings and Bold American Catering®. For more information about Fifth Group Restaurants, visit www.fifthgroup.com. For more wine suggestions from Vajra, check out his blog, Vajra Straight Up.

ANNUAL SHARE OUR STRENGTH GREAT AMERICAN BAKING CONTEST AND BAKE SALE!
. . . Or cookies, cakes, breads and secret recipes. Separate amateur and professional baker categories mean all that enter have a chance at winning bread while raising dough during Share Our Strength's Great American Baking Contest on Thursday, February 21 at The Cook's Warehouse in Midtown. The 7 - 9 p.m. bake-off kicks off the organization's Great American Bake Sale in Atlanta to help alleviate childhood hunger in America. Contest entry fees are $25/amateurs and $95/professionals. Atlanta Journal- Constitution Food Writer John Kessler will judge the pros, and a panel of pastry chefs will slice into the amateur chefs' creations. Samplings of desserts and wines are included in the event admission fee of $25 per person. Obtain contest specifics at www.strength.org/bakingcontest,or call Amy Crowell at 770-436-5151.

The Cook's Warehouse in Midtown is located at 549-I Amsterdam Avenue; 404-815-4993. http://www.cookswarehouse.com/

Share Our Strength's Great American Bake Sale®, presented by Domino® Sugar and C&H®, is a national campaign that mobilizes Americans to end childhood hunger by holding bake sales in their communities. www.greatamericanbakesale.org

GUESTS ARE GREETED WTH NEW MENU FORMAT AT WOODFIRE GRILL: OWNER/CHEF MICHAEL TUOHY MEANS BIG BUSINESS WHEN IT COMES TO SMALL PLATES
While Owner/Chef Michael Tuohy, a San Francisco transplant who has been at the forefront of the Atlanta dining scene for more than 20 years, has always been ahead of his time by offering a variety of small plates at his restaurant since opening in 2002 - Bon Appetit magazine even named Woodfire Grill as the spot for "Best Small Plates" in 2004. But now, he has further expanded this section of the Woodfire Grill menu to reflect the way Atlantans are eating today. Defined by the end of the entrée and the launch of a lifestyle of grazing among numerous flavors and textures, the focal point of Tuohy's menu is the enormous selection of little bites that give the diner complete control over his or her meal. Many of Woodfire Grill's previous entrée options have been made into smaller portions.

"I believe this change reflects the way guests want to eat when dining out," says Tuohy. "There is a convergence of diners young and mature that want to experience and share lots of flavors and tastes; it's a more communal approach. Diners want to move on from a dish after three to four bites, so an entree can be too much of a commitment," he adds.

Additionally, The Café at Woodfire's menu features artisan cured meats, artisan cheese selections with a wide variety of accompaniments and pizzettas to suit the mood of patrons. Several of these items are also available for purchase in The Café to take home. For those guests who are willing to put their meal choices into the capable hands of Chef Tuohy, a four-course vegetable tasting menu and a chef's tasting menu are featured on the backside of the regular menu to showcase the day's freshest locally grown organic produce and other seasonal offerings that are central to the restaurant's philosophy of ingredient-focused fair with a Northern California flair. Woodfire Grill is open for dinner Tuesday through Sunday and is located at 1782 Cheshire Bride Road; 404-347-9055; http://www.woodfiregrill.com/.


SECOND HELPINGS: SOCIAL DIVA DIVIES UP SCOOP ON ATLANTA
Social butterflies and event divas will see Atlanta's restaurant, happenings and retail scene bloom on Socialdiva.com. Part newsletter, part blog, there's plenty of eye-candy and meaty information to make clicking on this link worth your while!

Atlanta Restaurants Bring Big Eats for the Big Game

RESOLVE TO DINE WELL AND REVEL IN MARDI GRAS MANIA AT WHOLE FOODS MARKET
Remember that Re-solutions pledge you made with Whole Foods Market back on January 1? We’ve listed market-fresh re-solutions to help you recover from two common midwinter conditions: cabin kitchen fever and dead-of-winter doldrums. First, resolve to dine out and try some new light-hearted recipes and wines. Second, get crazy at a Mardi Gras parade and “laissez les bons temps rouler!” http://www.wholefoodsmarket.com/

Dine at the Five & Wine in Whole Foods Market-Buckhead on Thursday, January 31
This month’s Healthy Resolutions Dinner features five light and healthy courses with wine pairings at 7 p.m. on January 31 in the Café. Punt any preconceived notions that healthy is bland when you try this menu featuring almond-crusted sea scallops and more. $30 per person; reservations and payment must be made by January 30 at customer service. Whole Foods Market - Buckhead: 77 West Paces Ferry Road, NW; 404-324-4100.

Mardi Gras Marches into Whole Foods Market – Sandy Springs on Saturday, February 2
To accommodate the schedules of fun-loving soccer moms and dads and hoop-hollering basketball fans, Whole Foods Market – Sandy Springs is sporting its annual Mardi Gras parade…during two time slots. Make one a priority: 11 a.m. or 3 p.m. Every department has whipped up a float and will fuel the frolicking with beads and goodies. Whole Foods Market – Sandy Springs: 5930 Roswell Road; 404-236-0810.

EVERY BITE HELPS! RESTAURANTS DISH IT OUT AT TASTE OF DUNWOODY FOR CHILDREN’S HEALTHCARE OF ATLANTA!
More than 35 restaurants, pubs and novelty feeds will be dishing out their delicacies at the 5th Annual Taste of Dunwoody on February 1, 2008 from 7 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. at the W Atlanta Perimeter. (111 Perimeter Center West; 770-396-6800). Two of our favorites include Aqua Blue and Hi Life…ah, but we digress…there’ll be everything from tapas to ribs to European desserts, a cash bar, a silent auction and live music by RELIX at Dunwoody’s tastiest fundraiser. $35 per person. All proceeds benefit Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta. Tap into a list of participating restaurants and more event info by clicking on “Supporting Children’s” at http://www.choa.org/.

IS IT THE “SUPER BOWL” BECAUSE OF THE FOOTBALL OR WHAT’S IN YOUR SNACK BOWL? BIG EATS DESERVE A BIG GAME, AND VICE VERSA!
Over the years, America’s Super Bowl has become a Supper Bowl as screen-side noshing competes with on-screen action (and let’s not overlook those memorable commercials and half-times). The American Institute of Food Distribution ranks the Super Bowl as the second-largest food consumption event of the year behind Thanksgiving. Thank goodness Atlanta restaurants have super strategies for a winning evening, no matter who you’re rooting for come kick off on February 3.

Develop your game plan at Salud! Lifestyle & Cooking School inside Whole Foods Market in Duluth-Johns Creek. Meat dishes and craft beers are all-star players at this “Football Party” from 7 – 9 p.m. on Tuesday, January 29. Meat expert Nathan Coutts will lead the class on a play-by-play through the meat department and with recipes for hearty eats. Try best-ever bison chili, smoky raspberry chipotle wings and ultimate nachos with pan-seared fajita meat and fresh guacamole. Tackle thirst with craft beer samples. $35 per person. 5945 State Bridge Road; 678-514-2400. http://www.wholefoodsmarket.com/

Chipotle Mexican Grill sacks the snack competition on Super Sunday!
Prior to kick-off, call in the play to Chipotle, then touch down briefly to pick up your pre-ordered burrito boxes-to-go. MVP status will be yours when you arrive cradling one of these sturdy, heat-retaining boxes filled with up to 25 of Chipotle’s plump burritos packed with marinated and grilled, naturally raised chicken, pork or beef and fresh fixings. Pre-order your burrito box in person, by phone or by fax and pick up before the party. Sorry party mix, you don’t stand a chance against this delicious defensive line! For locations, visit http://www.chipotle.com/.

Marlow's Tavern sends out a strong starting line up that will carry your team through the game: Super Bowl Party Platters. Order by Saturday, February 2 for pick up on Sunday, February 3. Pick your players:

· Chicken wings in a choice of flavors including teriyaki, lemon pepper, original, spicy, hot honey mustard and sweet chili (20 wings for $15; 30 wings for $20; 40 wings for $25).
· Marlow’s famous hummus with pita chips, carrot sticks and celery sticks ($12 for a serving for 20 people).
· Slammin’ slider platter with cheeseburger sliders and chicken melt sliders ($15 for 10).
· Veggie crudités platter with celery, carrots, red peppers, broccoli, French beans and sun-dried tomatoes with Parmesan ranch ($10 serving 10 people; $20 serving 20 people; larger sizes available).
· Crab pot stickers with soy glaze and sweet chili sauce (10 for $10; 20 for $20).
· A selection of wraps including turkey, roast beef and grilled buffalo chicken served with fresh kettle chips (10 pieces for $20; 20 pieces for $40).

Available at all 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; and Vinings at 2355 Cumberland Parkway, 770-432-2526. http://www.marlowstavern.com/

South City Kitchen Vinings knows Southerners love their tailgating fare as much as they love football, so they’re offering a super Southern approach for grid iron gourmets. The food is fab, and you’ll be much more comfortable than you would be tailgating in a stadium lot! Make a first down in crab and cheese fondue ($9); and continue to score with black bean dip ($6.75); smoky hot wings ($9.50); green chili with hominy, shrimp and braised pork ($8.50); loose meat po boy ($9.50); fried shrimp po boy ($10.50); muffaletta ($9.50); and smoked chicken Caesar salad ($10.25). Quenchers include Terrapin beer for $3 per bottle. South City Kitchen Vinings: 1675 Cumberland Parkway; 770-435-0700. http://www.fifthgroup.com/

Trilogy is the place to go for team spirit with a pre-game party begining at 4 p.m. then playing on through the game and beyond. Bring your team of fans for buffet fare, game day favorites and Budweiser specials along with 14 42" LCD screens for better-than-stadium seating! $10 per person. East Cobb at 4930 Davidson Road; 770-859-0041. http://www.trilogydining.net/

WHOLE FOODS MARKET BAGS THE (PLASTIC) BAG IN FAVOR OF REUSABLES
A Whole Foods Market reusable shopping bag is your newest perfect accessory!
Plastic is so passé…or actually, that’s the problem. Plastic bags can take 1,000 years to pass away, ending up as litter, landfill fodder and marine-life hazards -- while depleting natural resources -- during the interim. Whole Foods Market, the world’s leading natural and organic foods supermarket, is “bagging” the use of plastic bags at the checkouts in all of its 270 stores in the U.S., Canada and the U.K. with the goal to be plastic-bag free by Earth Day, April 22, 2008. While many cities and countries are placing restrictions on single-use plastic shopping bags, Whole Foods Market is the first U.S. supermarket to commit to the cause. Already, the supermarket is depleting bag stocks on hand while increasing the selection of reusable bags available for purchase. For years, Whole Foods Market shoppers have been given five or ten cent refunds at checkouts for bringing their own bags. Trend-setting shoppers will want to go ahead and purchase the stores’ inexpensive yet colorful and sturdy reusable shopping bags to use now as they work their way into a reusable mindset by Earth Day! Learn more at www.wholefoodsmarket.com/byobag.

Atlanta Whole Foods Market locations include:

Buckhead: 77 West Paces Ferry Road, NW; 404-324-4100
Briarcliff: 2111 Briarcliff Road; 404-634-7800
Duluth-Johns Creek: 5945 State Bridge Road; 678-514-2400
Sandy Springs: 5930 Roswell Road; 404-236-0810
Ponce: 650 Ponce de Leon Avenue, NE; 404-853-1681
Harry’s Farmers Market in Alpharetta: 1180 Upper Hembree Road; 770-664-6300
Harry’s Farmers Market in Marietta: 70 Powers Ferry Road, S.E.; 770-578-4400

FIFTH GROUP RESTAURANTS CAN ‘N BALL EVENTS SCORE 1,600 POUNDS OF CANNED GOODS FOR ATLANTA COMMUNITY FOOD BANK
Fifth Group Restaurants® and their guests recently tackled a formidable opponent, hunger, by fielding two successful events at three of the company’s restaurants. Everyone who participated was an MVP, helping to bring in 1,600 pounds of canned goods to benefit the Atlanta Community Food Bank. Ecco hosted “Friend & Foe” night on December 18, raffling off four pairs of tickets to the Auburn vs. Clemson match up at the Chick-Fil-A Bowl, accompanied by one-night stays for two at the Atlanta Marriott Marquis. South City Kitchen Midtown and Vinings traded raffle tickets for canned goods on January 16, giving away three pairs of tickets to the NHL All-Star Game on January 27 at Philips Arena. Fifth Group Restaurant’s newly updated Web site, http://www.fifthgroup.com/, has the details on South City Kitchen Midtown and Vinings, Ecco, La Tavola Trattoria, Food Studio and Bold American Catering. For wine recommendations and pairings, cocktail recipes and demonstration videos from Fifth Group Restaurants’ Beverage Director Vajra Stratigos, check out his “Vajra Straight Up” blog at http://www.vajrastraightup.blogspot.com/.

South City Kitchen Midtown: 1144 Crescent Avenue; 404-873-7358
South City Kitchen Vinings: 1675 Cumberland Parkway; 770-435-0700
Ecco: 40 7th Street at the corner of Cypress Street in Midtown; 404-347-9555

The Atlanta Community Food Bank has fought hunger by engaging, educating and empowering our community since 1979. It distributes almost two million pounds of food and other donated grocery items monthly to more than 800 nonprofit partner agencies in 38 counties in metro Atlanta and North Georgia.