Royal Sips Grace Holiday Season -- Louis XIII Special at Ray’s on the River

Cognac connoisseurs, adorn the holidays with regal sips at Ray’s on the River -- the LOUIS XIII Cognac perfect pour. For more than a century, LOUIS XIII has been synonymous with refinement and French taste and sophistication, captivating Europe’s royal courts and becoming a fixture at prestigious hotels. Treat yourself and that special someone to the luxury of sipping a world-renowned legacy, available in 0.5 ounce ($90), 1 ounce ($180) and 1.5 ounce ($270) pours. Don’t put off what you can sip today; this special is available all day, every day -- but only through the holiday season.

Ray’s Restaurants Serves Irresistible Deal -- Free Enrollment to Dining Club

Loyal Ray’s Restaurants devotees love their Ray’s Dining Club incentives, and Ray’s has recently added one more tempter -- eating the usual $10 enrollment fee (i.e., join for free) now through the end of the year. What’s in it for diners? Ray’s Dining Club members receive one point for every one dollar spent (excluding tax and gratuity) at Ray’s in the City, Ray’s on the River or Ray’s Killer Creek. For every 300 points earned, Ray’s will automatically load $30 onto the card. Ray’s piles on “gimmes” galore: a $10 activation bonus for registering your card, a $10 birthday month bonus for those visiting Ray’s at least once before their birthday month, plus exclusive promotional offers and invitations to VIP events. Additionally, Dining Club members can accumulate double or triple points when dining at Ray’s on special bonus days and holidays.

Dining Club points, rewards and promotions may not be combined with other promotions or discounts. Read complete details about the Dining Club here. Sign up today and be prepared to start earning points on your next helping of Ray’s renowned succulent steaks, ocean-fresh seafood, signature salads, handhelds and holiday buffets, not to mention those mesmerizing Chattahoochee River views at Ray’s on the River.

TGIF AND Cinco de Mayo Friday, May 5

Get ready to “Cinco” into the weekend this year because Cinco de Mayo falls on a Friday and Saturdays are meant for sleeping in. And, at some restaurants, the celebrations kick in early in the week and carry on through the weekend!

Communion Cantina throws open its backyard bar and eatery for the warm weather season on Cinco de Mayo. Cantina? Si! Kevin Gillespie has transformed the outdoor gathering place behind Revival, his popular Decatur restaurant, into a casual Mexican cantina -- just in time for Cinco de Mayo celebrating. The cantina food truck, with a menu driven by executive chef Andreas Müller, will sell five different varieties of tacos, chips and salsa, cheese dip and other Mexican staples. Border heat calls for cocktails, margaritas, sangria, frozen drinks like frosé and frozen mint juleps along with bottled and draft beer featuring West Coast and Mexican brews. Hours are Friday 5-10 p.m., Saturday 1-10 p.m., Sunday 1-9 p.m. and Thursday 5-10 p.m. (beginning May 11).

 “Drinko de Mayo,” going on through May 7 at Tin Lizzy’s Cantina, syncs sipping celebratory Cincoritas and pouring donations into a great cause. The FlexMex gang is donating 50 cents from every Cincorita purchased to Bert’s Big Adventure, a non-profit providing chronic or terminally ill children and their families with five-day, all-expenses-paid adventures to Disney World. Drink specials, music and more round out the weeklong “fiestivities.” Say “Ole!” to Corona Light on draft ($4.25/$7), Grand Marnier and Jager floaters ($3) and shots ($5), 1800 Tequila shots ($5) and 1800 Cincorita -- small ($8) or large ($13). On May 5, DJs supersize the party music at each restaurant, and guests can buy cans of Corona and Modelo ($5) at locations with outdoor bars. Southside Steve from Rock 100.5 broadcasts live from the Mall of Georgia Tin Lizzy’s at 5 p.m. followed by Slippery When Wet (Bon Jovi cover band) turning up courtyard party volume at 7 p.m.

In Town Brookhaven, the Cinco de Mayo Fiesta rollicks at Jefe’s Tacos & Tequila starting at 2 p.m. There’s no cover charge for this party that salsas out onto the patio with live music and food and drink specials. Please your crowd with an assembly of tacos with personality, bearing names like Pinche Pollo, Trailer on Fire, Redneck, Mamacita and Bravocado or Jefe’s Mexi-spun faves such as smoked chicken taquitos, Nacho Daddy, crispy calamari and crispy smoked wings with Jefe’s hot sauce.

For a new take on the classic margarita, visit your neighborhood Marlow’s Tavern and enjoy one of Rick Blumberg’s cocktail creations. Previously the beverage director of Bacchanalia Restaurant Group, Rick’s signature Blood Orange Margarita featuring Herradura tequila and Pür Spice Blood Orange liqueur or “Secret Recipe” Red or White Sangria are sure to put you in the Cinco spirit! Cinco de Mayo-ish bites include Marlow’s rave-worthy Shrimp and Crab “Nacho” Plate and “Infamous” Fish Tacos.

Taco Mac is turning this weekend into a two-day celebration. Between Cinco on Friday and the Derby on Saturday, Taco Mac has invented “Derby de Mayo,” featuring $4 select Mexican beers with new Brewniversity credits, a Herradura Barrel Select flight and traditional, black cherry, watermelon and strawberry margaritas. Cheers to this weekend!

All three Ray’s Restaurants swing into Cinco de Mayo mode, resurrecting the beloved Ray’s Rio Bravo chile con queso recipe for guests to spoon up in bar and lounge areas on May 5. Pop into Ray’s in the City, Ray’s on the River or Ray’s at Killer Creek to dip into this delish dish.

Willy’s Mexicana Grill makes it easy to squeeze some Cinco de Mayo flavor into your day at 30 locations covering Atlanta and reaching out to Athens and Columbus. Me, oh “Mayo,” can’t get out? Willy’s catering brings the “Cuatro de Mayo” party to you on May 4, offering free cheese dip for up to 20 people on all deliveries made May 4. Minimum $250 catering order and 24-hour notice required; must call 404-422-7107 and mention the offer to redeem. On May 5, live music plays from 6-9 p.m. at the Howell Mill store and 5-8 p.m. at Willy’s - Piedmont Park. Want a margarita? There’s one with your name on it at the Howell Mill, Midtown, Edgewood, Brookhaven and Peachtree City Willy’s locations.

HOBNOB Neighborhood Tavern is always ready to celebrate, and Cinco de Mayo is no exception. Stop into the Midtown watering hole for beers from around here and around the world, including Corona, a Cinco de Mayo classic. Mixologists stand ready to craft your margarita or perhaps a Spanish Inquisition signature cocktail starring Medieval tequila ($11). Share some of HOBNOB’s popular starters such as braised short rib tacos (2/$8.95 or 3/$11.95); New Generation duck nachos ($11.95) topped with duck confit, fontina cheese, Fresno peppers and HOBNOB’s own date-fig jam and roasted tomato pesto; spicy chipotle cornmeal-crusted fried green tomatoes ($8.50); or braised short rib lettuce wraps with chimichurri sauce ($11). Does a Margherita pizza count ($12.75)?

Relax. It’s Labor Day. Let Atlanta Restaurants Do the Cooking for You

Labor Day arrives Monday, September 5, signaling the unofficial start of fall activities. Might as well squeeze in one last weekend of summer fun! Spend it in the grocery store and kitchen? We think not, because some of our favorite eateries are open over the holiday. Keep these Atlanta restaurants in mind if you’re returning from vacation, beat from a day of outdoor activities or just ready to let someone else labor over the stove.

For high-quality steaks and seafood, head to 101 Steak. Vinings’ newest chophouse is open regular hours all weekend and will be open for dinner on Monday from 4-9:30 p.m., offering mouthwatering dishes like the 32-oz. tomahawk chop, East and West Coast oysters and more than 100 wines by the glass.

Newcomer 5Church carries its weekend brunch service over to Monday for a special holiday treat. Cornmeal waffles, Southern fried steak, duck confit with cabbage pancake and more will be on the menu from 11 a.m.-3 p.m., with dinner service in the evening.

Out late on Sunday? Celebrate into the wee hours at Atkins Park Restaurant & Bar in Virginia-Highland or Ormsby’s in West Midtown. Both are staying open until 3 a.m. Monday morning. Atkins Park will cure your hangover with its full brunch menu available on Monday starting at 11:30 a.m.

Ponce City Market favorite Bellina Alimentari continues its monthly Bluesin’ Bellina live music series on Sunday from 4-7 p.m. Enjoy food, libations and great music from the Cody Matlock Band. Regular Monday hours stand.

Bid summer a final farewell with a special edition of Basque in the Sun on Sunday at Gypsy Kitchen. Enjoy paella on the patio, $5 glasses of rosé, $4 tinto de verano and half off select bottles of wine, as well as a live flamenco guitarist from 4-7 p.m. and a DJ starting at 7 p.m. Closed on Monday.

HOBNOB Neighborhood Tavern is open regular hours all weekend and Monday. Stop by and enjoy the brunch menu and $17 bottomless mimosas. Order half-price wings on Sunday from 5-11 p.m. and return for Monday’s date night special -- dinner for two for $24.95.

Johnny’s Hideaway, Atlanta’s favorite neighborhood nightspot, is open late on Sunday for a pre-Labor Day bash with live music from Cold Draft Beer. Monday regulars, Johnny’s is open for you as usual.

Whether you’re attending the Chick-fil-A Kickoff Game on Saturday or going sci-fi at Dragon Con, be sure to make Ray’s in the City part of your itinerary – the downtown restaurant is open all weekend. Come Monday for the two-course 1.25-pound whole Maine lobster dinner available all day for $24.95. More? That dinner also is available on Labor Day atRay’s on the River and Ray’s at Killer Creek. If you’re craving Mexican food, visit Ray's Rio Bravo on Monday for half-priced drinks all day.

Smokebelly BBQ turns the corner from summer to fall by honoring barbecue and the start of college football season. Friday through Monday specials include $3 Bud Light drafts, $10 Bud Light pitchers, $15 Bud and Bud Light buckets and $5 Tito’s drinks. The Whispering Gypsies start in with live music at 8 p.m. Friday. Saturday, enjoy gridiron action on 16 TVs, along with enough barbecue to feed every college team in the country. Smoked brisket and an Irish whiskey are just the ticket for catching Sunday’s Texas vs. Notre Dame game. Cap off the weekend on Monday with waffle fries, mac and cheese and pulled pork as FSU faces off against Ole Miss. Beginning September 5, Monday’s mean 25-cent wings starting at 4 p.m.

Additional restaurants open regular hours on Monday, September 5:

• Affairs in Alpharetta
• Marlow’s Tavern (all locations)
• Sublime Doughnuts (both locations)
• The Big Ketch Buckhead and Canton Street (Roswell)
• Tin Lizzy’s Cantina (all locations) 

Copper River Salmon are Running at Ray’s Restaurants for a Limited Time

The return of king salmon to the cold waters of Alaska’s Copper River affirms seasonal eating extends well beyond the garden gates. The king is back and making an appearance on Ray’s Restaurants’ menus for a limited time. Copper River salmon is coveted for its superb flavor, texture and naturally high omega-3 oil content, and king salmon runs are carefully managed for long-term sustainability by the Alaska Department of Fish and Game. All are feel-good reasons spawning salmon lovers to look for this market-priced fish on the menus at Ray’s at Killer Creek in Alpharetta, Ray’s in the City in downtown Atlanta and Ray’s on the River in Sandy Springs. Ray’s at Killer Creek executive chef Mike Fuller has created several specials to be featured throughout the season, including a cast-iron Copper River king salmon with local butter beans, Carolina gold rice and Meyer lemon aїoli. Hooked? Try this recipe at home.

Feeling the Heat? Chill with Summery Fare at Atlanta Restaurants

Honor your summer appetite by noshing and dining on lighter fare at Atlanta restaurants. Ditch lunch and dinner doldrums with these tasty perks:

Senf schnitzel (mustard schnitzel) lands the coveted schnitzel of the month spot at Der Biergarten. Dijon mustard and a light breading coat a tender pork cutlet that’s gently fried and accompanied by a side for $23. Crisp Spaten lager, beer of the month, refreshes without overwhelming ($9/liter).

The raw tuna tartare burger at FLIP burger boutique foils summer heat with a cool and colorful topping of Asian pear, pine nuts, soy dressing, wasabi mayo, compressed veggies, mango sphere and avocado ($14).

The savory-spicy yin yang of kimchi, gochujang and scallions dress Korean pork sliders ($7) at Kaleidoscope Bistro & Pub. Dwelling on half-priced appetizers 5-6 p.m. Monday through Friday -- and your cold beverage of choice -- saves a hot-under-the-collar kind of day. Slide in for sliders and check out Kaleidoscope’s new renovations and expansion when the restaurant reopens on July 18.

Marlow's Tavern mixes a watermelon and buffalo mozzarella salad that’s pure chill with European cucumber, radish, fresh mint, olive oil and balsamic glaze ($9). Available through August 3 as part of Marlow’s Midsummer Cocktail Party. (Not available at Waterford Lakes or Woodstock locations.) While there, snap a pic of your summer fun and upload it to Marlow’s Midsummer Cocktail Party photo contest for a chance to win dinner for four (#marlowsmidsummer).

Sized right for summer appetites, small plates of fried chicken and champagne meatballs with champagne gravy ($10) are always in season at MAX’s Wine Dive in Midtown.

All three Ray’s Restaurants bring the Maine coast to metro Atlanta through their summer lobster promotion. Select a 1.25-pound whole Maine lobster with a choice of salad and side, served with drawn butter for $24.95 at Ray’s at Killer Creek, Ray's on the River and Ray's in the City.

Seed Kitchen & Bar sears Maine scallops and serves them alongside poblano creamed corn and chanterelles with truffle vinaigrette.

At Tin Lizzy's Cantina, a skewer of seasoned grilled shrimp reclines on a bed of seasoned rice, grilled red peppers and onions, Monterey Jack cheese and crispy tortilla strips, all drizzled with creamy avocado sauce ($9.99). Ask for the shrimp fajita skillet, and while you’re at it, add a margarita or ice-cold beer. 

Stem Wine Bar has a sweet spot for Georgia peaches, pairing Marcona almond panna cotta with riesling-poached peaches from Pearson Farm.

The Southern Gentleman’s dessert menu chills with a strawberry financier ($8) with rhubarb, white chocolate ice cream and brown butter crumble and a blueberry upside-down cake ($8) topped with salted vanilla ice cream with Fruit Loop dust and cornmeal crumbs.

Stop Floundering and Claw Your Way to Ray’s Restaurants for Lobsterfest

Ray’s Restaurants and Rockland, Maine share a common denominator. Lobsters. While Rockland is the self-proclaimed “Lobster Capital of the World,” the king of crustaceans rules at Ray’s Restaurants’ Lobsterfest. Currently at Ray’s at Killer Creek and beginning Monday, July 6 at Ray's on the River and Ray's in the City, select a 1.25-pound whole Maine lobster served with drawn butter and a choice of salad and side for $24.95. All three restaurants salute Independence Day by presenting a one-pound whole Maine lobster, drawn butter and a choice of side for just $16.95 on July 4. The celebration continues over a lobster boil spread at Ray’s at Killer Creek on Saturday, July 11 and at Ray’s on the River on Friday, July 17 and Saturday, July 18. The all-you-can-eat buffet boasts succulent lobster tails, lobster claws, peel-and-eat shrimp, andouille sausage, savory red potatoes, roasted corn coleslaw and more plus house-made desserts. Cash bar. All three spreads are from 6:30-9:00 p.m. and cost $50 per person, plus tax and gratuity. Space is limited; for reservations, call 770-955-1187 (Ray’s on the River) or 770-649-0064 (Ray’s at Killer Creek). Hurry in or you’ll miss Lobsterfest by a tail. 

Glory Be! Fourth of July Sparkles at Atlanta Restaurants

Fly the flag, find the sparklers and pick a parade and fireworks to watch. Our nation’s founders had no idea we’d make such a party out of their fight for freedom, liberty and independence, but if they were here, they’d probably be celebrating in red, white and blue right along with us. Atlanta restaurants are equally patriotic, declaring they’re open for dining in or packing up meals to grab and go. Some are closed for the day, but hey, even restaurateurs love going to picnics and firework displays.

Saturday night is for sparklers and Roman candle displays, Friday night is for candle-light dinners at Aria. The Buckhead restaurant will be closed on Saturday so staffers can celebrate Independence Day with friends, family and fireworks.

Hurray for the “Red, White and Boil” Low Country boil and brunch at Atkins Park Restaurant & Bar in Virginia-Highland on July 4. Brunch hours of 10 a.m.-2 p.m. are ideal for Peachtree Road racers, and the Low Country boil and oyster roast will be ready to devour at noon. In the boil: wild Georgia shrimp, snow crab legs, black mussels, andouille sausage, new potatoes, sweet corn and Vidalia onions steamed in beer with Old Bay. Rip into one pound for $17.76 -- the price and year our great nation was officially founded. Includes okra fritters plus spicy remoulade, pepper vinegar and cocktail sauce. Pay $10 for a half-dozen smoked Gulf oysters on the half shell with melted leeks and Parmesan.

All four Bantam + Biddy locations (Ansley, Crescent, Lenox and Avalon) will be open for business as usual. Peachtree Road racers, celebrate your accomplishment over food and drinks at Ansley Mall, Crescent Avenue and Lenox locations. Free up your day for holiday parade watching and pool time -- order a Bantam + Biddy family meal to go ($52, feeds 3-5 folks). If Lenox fireworks are on your horizon, picking up dinner at the Lenox location is a tailgating no-brainer. Meal includes your choice of a whole roast chicken, meatloaf or pork loin (24 oz.) served with an organic green salad, choice of dressing, cornbread (gluten-free bread upon request +$3), three generous sides and a half gallon of fresh-brewed tea. Family meal rules: take-out only, allow 30 minutes to prepare, no substitutions, 5 percent eco-friendly packaging fee added. Remember dessert! After all, it’s a holiday.
 
Chick-a-Biddy in Atlantic Station will remain open, serving brunch and dinner during its normal hours. Go all-American with waffles, healthy smoothies, chicken dishes (grilled or fried), Southern breakfast all day and your favorite cold beverages.

Raise a glass of sangria ($5) or tinto de verano ($4) to cheer Spain’s part in U.S. history and dine on fare influenced by the nation’s diverse cultural areas at Gypsy Kitchen. Basque in the sunset on the Buckhead Atlanta restaurant's patio; open for dinner July 4 from 5-11 p.m.

Twenty-one bun salute? Close. Marlow's Tavern is sending Insiders an email for a free burger with the purchase of an entrée. Sign up for the Insider’s Club online. Shout out: the Dunwoody 4th of July Parade sets off at 9 a.m. Saturday and concludes right outside the Dunwoody Village Marlow’s Tavern.
 
MAX's Wine Dive in Midtown is extending weekend brunch from Friday, July 3 through Saturday and Sunday. Peachtree Road Race fans, chicken and champagne call your names and numbers.

All three Ray's Restaurants -- Ray’s in the City, Ray’s on the River and Ray’s at Killer Creek -- are open noon-8 p.m. For a tastes-rich, costs-little coastal treat, order the $16.95 lobster special featuring a one-pound whole Maine Lobster joined by drawn butter and side of your choice.

On July 4, Smokebelly BBQ in Buckhead waves the Red, White and Q flag, pulling pork from a whole hog roast starting at 4 p.m. (while supplies last) followed by live music from 6-9 p.m. Cans of Pabst Blue Ribbon are $2 each. Reminiscent of a spiked watermelon, From the Vine mixes vodka, watermelon juice, lime juice and simple syrup for $5 (usually $7).

The Fourth of July barbecue pack from Kevin Gillespie’s Terminus City satisfies four to six of your most-spirited friends with two pounds of barbecue pork, one pint each of coleslaw and Revival potato salad, six sandwich rolls, barbecue sauce, pork cracklings and six chocolate chip cookies for $50. Throw in a copy of Gillespie’s new cookbook “Pure Pork Awesomeness” for just $25. Orders can be placed the day of, but orders placed by July 1 are guaranteed. Pick up orders at Gunshow. To place an order or discuss catering for a larger party, call the restaurant at 404-380-1886. More info: terminuscity@gunshowatl.com.

Skipping beach-bound traffic over the holiday weekend? Sub in Buckhead-bound. Flip-flop over to The Big Ketch Saltwater Grill for Berry United cocktails -- New Amsterdam vodka, strawberries, lemonade, simple syrup and blueberries ($7.50) -- and live music from 1-5 p.m. and 7-11 p.m. on Saturday, July 4.
 
The Southern Gentleman is a patriotic gent. The gastropub atop Buckhead Atlanta serves its modern take on Southern dish and libation traditions at lunch from 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. and dinner from 5-11 p.m. on July 4. Foil the hot day with a few $2 Miller Lites, especially refreshing post-Peachtree Road Race or pre-Lenox fireworks.

Fire up the grill and toast land stewardship, sustainability, American entrepreneurship and independence from factory-farmed meats. Order White Oak Pastures’ grass-fed meats and pasture-raised poultry online or look for them at local stores including Atlanta-area Whole Foods Markets.

Wear your 2015 Peachtree Road Race T-shirt to Willy’s Mexicana Grill locations on July 4 and buy a burrito for $5 (excludes airport eatery).

Father’s Day is June 21. Atlanta Restaurants Do Dad Proud

Day in, day out, dads are do-gooders. Flip the tables and give them a day off from manning the grill, smoking pork butts and mowing the lawn by tying an Atlanta restaurant experience onto the Father’s Day tree.

Land or sea? Dad nets both at Aqua blue in Roswell. Choose the Aqua blue Surf & Turf featuring grilled N.Y. strip and tempura shrimp with potato au gratin, asparagus and natural glaze ($32) or the prix fixe menu of fresh lobster salad, Aqua blue Surf & Turf and house-made bread pudding ($38). Available only on June 21; no substitutions or combinations with other offers. 770-643-8886.

Paleo papas are ravenous for the Father’s Day Meat Lover’s Cook Out ($22.95 per person) at 10th and Piedmont and G’s Midtown. A streetside grill turns out a churrascaria-style all-you-can-eat lineup with mouthwatering options such as bourbon-marinated flank steak with chimichurri; artisanal sausage; Sweetwater Blue barbecue chicken; Southern-style dry-rub pork tenderloin; and slow-roasted barbecue pulled pork. Includes sides. Regular à la carte brunch menu available. 404-602-5510.

“Herr” and now, Der Biergarten is offering its Konig Ludwig platter, which serves six, for $75 (normally $98). Feed the family with this hearty assortment of Jägerschnitzel, Wiener Schnitzel, Schweinshaxe, four sausages, sauerbraten, potato salad, sauerkraut, braised red cabbage and spätzle. No substitutions. 404-521-2728.
 
FLIP Burger boutique pulls dad off grill duty this Sunday, offering a FL-IPA and the manly rBQ burger of angus beef, pulled brisket, coleslaw, rBQ sauce and smoked mayo for $12 on Father’s Day. Available at all FLIP locations.

Would dad fix chicken-fried lobster at home? Why try when MAX's Wine Dive masters the dish, along with father-friendly specials like steak and eggs and innovative bar food. And then there’s MAX’s superior wine list. 404-249-0445.

Just north of the ATL in historic Crabapple, Milton’s Cuisine & Cocktails’ chef Derek Dollar presents a Father’s Day brunch menu -- think chicken and waffles, blackened Atlantic salmon, shrimp and grits -- from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. $32 per person for adults and $16 per person for children 12 and younger. Cap dad’s day with a dinner celebration. Reserve a table and enjoy the regular menu plus "meat-tacular" features such as bone-in rib-eye and pork chops between 5-9 p.m. 770-817-0161.

Switch up the traditional Father’s Day grill out and experience authentic sushi and seafood; no passport required! RA Sushi has your Father’s Day all planned out. From open to close on Father’s Day Sunday celebrate dad with cocktails, great food, and good conversation!
 
Ray’s Restaurants fills dad’s love tank, morning, noon or night. Ray’s on the River offers a brunch buffet from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. ($39.95 for adults, $19.95 for kids ages 5 to 10), and its regular dinner menu from 5-9 p.m. 770-955-1187.Ray’s at Killer Creek sets out its signature brunch buffet from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. ($29.95 for adults, $15.95 for kids 5 to 10), along with its regular dinner menu (5-9 p.m.). 770-649-0064. Ray’s in the City offers special à la carte brunch, lunch and dinner menus from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. 404-524-9224.

Finally, let chef Kevin Gillespie’s Terminus City experts chop the pork butt this weekend and bag a signature Father’s Day barbecue package to go (feeds 4-6). Includes 2 pounds of barbecue pork, 1 pint of Revival potato salad, 1 pint of shaker-style coleslaw, 6 chocolate chip cookies, 6 sandwich rolls, barbecue sauce and pork cracklings. Pay $50 for food alone or $75 to include a personalized copy of Gillespie’s new cookbook, “Pure Pork Awesomeness.” Orders must be received by Tuesday, June 16, at midnight to ensure availability. Cookbook buyers, include name for personalization. Place order: 404-380-1886 or emailterminuscity@gunshowatl.com. Pick up orders Sunday, June 21, from 10 a.m. to noon at Gunshow.

Atlanta Restaurants Honor Memorial Day Weekend with Star-Spangled Specials May 22-25

Travels, festivals, memorial celebrations -- Atlanta restaurants post hours to accommodate your Memorial Day weekend plans.

Atkins Park Restaurant & Bar in Virginia-Highland stays open late on the Sunday of Memorial Day weekend (past midnight) and will serve lunch and dinner during regular hours on Monday.

All Bantam + Biddy locations will be open over the holiday weekend with all-natural poultry and regional fare -- can’t get more American than this!

Casual Chick-a-Biddy in Atlantic Station will be open as usual for weekend brunch plus lunch and dinner on all three days of the holiday weekend.

HOBNOB Neighborhood Tavern will open at 11:30 a.m. on Monday, doing their duty to serve their regular lunch menu and tossing in a few brunchy items to boot.

Stop by Kabob Land for pita and hummus, tabouli salad or wraps and plates bearing slow-roasted lamb, shawarma (gyro) and charbroiled meat, chicken, veggie or salmon kabobs. Dine in or order and go to be a holiday picnic hero. The Buckhead eatery honors regular hours across the weekend.

Ormsby’s on Atlanta’s Westside keeps Sunday’s party rolling past the usual midnight hour until 3 a.m. Monday morning, then stays opens as usual on Monday from 11:30 a.m.-3 a.m.

RA Sushi Bar Restaurant in Midtown fires up its Nicky’s Week fundraiser on Memorial Day Monday and keeps the special menu rolling through May 31. Regular hours prevail throughout the weekend.

On Memorial Day, all three Ray’s Restaurants -- Ray’s in the City, Ray’s on the River and Ray’s at Killer Creek -- will be open from noon until 9 p.m. and will offer double points for all Dining Club members. Additionally, active duty military and veterans -- and one guest -- will receive a 20 percent discount at all three Ray’s Restaurants on Monday, May 25.

Brunch spreads over all three days of the holiday weekend at 10th & Piedmont. The Midtown restaurant will extend its Saturday-Sunday brunch menu to Memorial Day and will open early at 10 a.m. to welcome Monday brunchers.

Willy’s Mexicana Grill locations will be open over the weekend with the exception of Willy’s in Peachtree Center, AT&T Center, AT&T Lindbergh and at Georgia State. Take Willy’s wrapped-to-order burritos along on your weekend adventures.

Nikolai’s Roof, Ray’s in the City and Trader Vic’s Beef Up Downtown Steak Week

Seafood and veggie lovers take heart, Downtown Steak Week woos you, too, as restaurants showcase tantalizing specialties from Delmonico ribeye to diver scallops, yellow fin tuna steak to cowboy sushi rolls and lamb chops to lasagna. Presented by Central Atlanta Progress and Creative Loafing, this meaty occasion returns for its second year over the week of Monday, May 11 through Sunday, May 17. Downtown Atlanta is a tasty destination whether you come by foot, car, streetcar, MARTA...or elevator up to the top of the Hilton Atlanta to feast eyes on the special menu at Nikolai’s Roof and the spectacular view. Chef Stephanie Alderete combs land and sea for her Downtown Steak Week menu featuring starters such as braised short rib piroshki ($12), Brussels sprout salad ($13) and caviar ($95-$145); first-course options like jumbo lump crab terrine ($13), diver scallop ($14), red beet and beef borscht consommé ($12) or beef carpaccio with olive beignets ($14); and seared beef tenderloin with duck bacon ($36), sautéed tilefish with shrimp confit ($32), roasted Magret duck breast ($36) and oven-roasted lamb chops ($39) among the entrées. Conclude the divine meal with local and global artisanal cheeses ($18 for three) and sweets such as blackberry crème brûlée ($12) and chocolate soufflé with espresso crème fraîche ($16). Order à la carte or choose the Chef’s Menu with three ($61), four ($71) or six ($91) courses. Make reservations online.

Ray’s in the City stakes a share in lunch and dinner plans with steak and seafood specialties including a featured lobster-stuffed filet ($30), Delmonico ribeye ($39), seven-ounce filet (à la carte, $29), steak frites ($20) or yellow fin tuna steak ($32). Round up special cowboy sushi rolls of steak, asparagus, crab meat and cream cheese ($15), available for weekday lunch only. Make lunch or dinner reservations online.

Trader Vic’s Atlanta in the Hilton Atlanta dashes Pacific Rim karma over its Steak Week dinner features of smoked oven New York strip steak with wok garlic green beans, scallop potatoes and red wine sauce ($30) and stir-fried filet de boeuf uniting beef tenderloin, sugar peas, carrots and steamed jasmine rice ($28). Make reservations online. 

Share Our Strength Taste of the Nation for No Kid Hungry Fills Tanks at Georgia Aquarium May 7

The Georgia Aquarium aquatic tanks are full, and the fish are well fed. The issue is filling the tummy tanks of hungry children across the U.S. with nourishing food -- the ultimate goal of Share Our Strength’s Atlanta Taste of the Nation for No Kid Hungry on Thursday, May 7. While guests in the Georgia Aquarium Oceans Ballroom are there to help raise funds for this mission, they’ll be able to sample their fill of signature dishes and drinks prepared by 50 of Atlanta’s top chefs and mixologists including those from Aria, Marlow’s Tavern, Ray’s Restaurants, Seed Kitchen & Bar, Stem Wine Bar and Umi, and they’ll enjoy more than a splash of fine wines from around the world. Great “see” life as well: looking at life through the ballroom’s huge water window, absorbing live music vibes, and auction bidding on wines, world-class trips, dining and culinary experiences and other luxury items. Event honorary chair is Dr. Sanjay Gupta, neurosurgeon and CNN chief medical correspondent. Buy tickets online: VIP is $350, for 6-10 p.m. admission; General is $250 person, for 7-10 p.m. admission. Attendees must be 21 years or older.

Oh Me, Oh My Oh, Today is Cinco de Mayo!

Cinco de Mayo salsas into today’s agenda wielding a banner of independence from Tuesday’s usual tame fare in deference to chips, guac, tacos, margaritas and cervezas. Oh queso, where are you going to go? Tin Lizzy’s Cantina locations, Atkin’s Park Restaurant & Bar and all three Ray’s Restaurants are quick picks -- see their specials on our blog. 

Mom’s the Word at Atlanta Restaurants on Mother’s Day May 10

She’s your biggest fan. She cheers, she chauffeurs, she chefs. She chooses what she feels is best for you. Now you can choose some of Atlanta’s best brunch and dinner spots to honor her on Mother’s Day, Sunday, May 10.
  
Stroll Piedmont Park’s paths and gardens then sit down for Sunday brunch at G’s Midtown or 10th & Piedmont from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. The two Midtown eateries serve both hot and cold brunch specialties such as challah bread French toast and chilled house-smoked salmon. Brunch is $34.95 per person. Reservations: 404-602-5510.  

A big heart deserves a big feast, and Aqua blue in Roswell comes through with $15 bottomless mimosas and a brunch buffet from 10:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Tempt taste buds with eggs Benedict, blackened fish with lobster sauce, dessert favorites like a chocolate fountain and loads more. $34.95 for adults and $9.95 for children ages 4 to 12. Children under 4 eat free. Rather do dinner? Aqua blue will serve its à la carte menu from 5-9 p.m. Reservations: 770-643-8886.
  
A tad north of Atlanta in historic Crabapple, Milton’s Cuisine & Cocktails executive chef Derek Dollar presents prix fixe Mother’s Day brunch and dinner menus. Brunch is $32 for adults; $16 for children 12 and under. Featured selections include French toast with fresh berries and smoked bacon or sausage, prosciutto eggs Benedict and blackened salmon. If afternoon activities knock brunch out of the ballpark, reserve a table for dinner -- $38 for adults, $19 for children -- and enjoy shrimp and grits, Southern fried chicken breast or an eight-ounce New York strip. The regular kids menu also will be available. Reservations: 770-817-0161 or OpenTable.

Ray’s on the River in Sandy Springs is offering its award-winning buffet from 9 a.m.-8 p.m. with brunch, lunch or dinner options as the day progresses. $42.95 for adults; $21.95 for children ages 5 to 10. For preferred seating, call 770-955-1187. In Alpharetta, Ray’s at Killer Creek is serving a buffet from 9 a.m.-8 p.m. $34.95 for adults; $17.95 for children ages 5 to 10. For preferred seating, call 770-649-0064. A downtown outing must-do is Ray’s in the City where a Mother’s Day buffet pleases all from 10 a.m.-3:30 p.m. ($34.95 adults; $17.95 children ages 5 to 10), and the regular à la carte menu service kicks in from 5- 9 p.m. For preferred seating, call 404-524-9224.

Mom is special every day. Mother’s Day or any day, these Atlanta-area brunch spots are her cup of tea. 


Atkins Park Restaurant & Bar in Virginia-Highland serves classics like deviled eggs and more stylish options such as chorizo and egg tacos.


It’s mom’s lucky day! Aria, usually closed on Sunday evenings, will be open and serving dinner beginning at 5 p.m. Sophisticated Aria pampers like no other. Make reservations online.


All four Bantam + Biddy locations (Ansley, Crescent, Lenox Square, Avalon) are offering their regular brunch menus, loaded with mom’s favorites (and she might share her chicken and waffles if you’re sweet).

Brunch and dinner are in the cards at The Southern Gentleman, open from 10 a.m.-7 p.m. on Mother’s Day. The day begins with morning and midday fare such as fried soft-shell crab Benedict, a traditional Monte Cristo, Gulf red snapper and cornmeal and ricotta pancakes served 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Dinner selections are available 4 – 7 p.m., including carbonara pasta, duck and dumplings, roasted Carolina mountain trout, pepper-crusted New York strip, and buttermilk-poached Grassroots Farm chicken breast. Shrimp and grits plus starters of jumbo lump crab risotto with country ham, salt and sugar cured green tomatoes and warmed Gulf oysters grace both à la carte menus. Make reservations online.

All moms visiting any Willy's Mexicana Grill location on May 9 or May 10 will receive a coupon for $5 off any order of $15 or more for their next visit.

Welcome weekend leisure time by taking mom to Atlantic Station for Chick-a-Biddy’s brunch of signature chicken and waffles with traditional flavors or twists like red velvet.


In Midtown, HOBNOB Neighborhood Tavern serves breakfast pizza, healthy frittatas and fresh farmer's omelets to power up her day.

Marlow’s Tavern is the perfect neighborhood spot for classic American brunch fare with an upscale twist. Find a Marlow’slocation near and dear to Mom’s heart.