Uncork Jordan Winery Specials at Ray’s Restaurants Through February

Latch onto wines from Jordan Winery and enjoy special promotional prices at all three Ray’s Restaurants now through the end of February. At Ray’s in the City and Ray’s on the River, Jordan cabernet sauvignon is priced at $26 for an eight-ounce glass or $80 for the bottle, and Jordan chardonnay pours at $20 per eight-ounce glass or $60 for the bottle. At Ray’s at Killer Creek in Alpharetta, the cab is $20 for a six-ounce glass, $30 for a nine-ounce glass or $80 per bottle; the crisp chardonnay commands $15 for a six-ounce glass, $22 for a nine-ounce glass or $60 per bottle. Jordan Winery is committed to producing a singular Russian River Valley chardonnay and a singular Alexander Valley cabernet sauvignon honoring the subtleties of French Old World winemaking traditions. Right wine, right time. Now.

Merry Caymus! Ray’s Restaurants Features Caymus Vineyards Wines during December

“Outstanding” aptly describes Ray’s Restaurants, Caymus Vineyards and the December featured wine promotion at Ray’s in the City, Ray’s on the River and Ray’s at Killer Creek. Founded in 1984 by renowned restaurateur Ray Schoenbaum, the Ray’s family of restaurants is always on point with mouthwatering cuisine, thoughtful wine selections and attentive service. Caymus Vineyards releases remarkable wines and remains family owned by the Wagner family in Rutherford, California. Charlie and Lorna Wagner produced their first vintage in 1972, and the family remains focused on producing quality cabernet sauvignons, especially two velvety cabs -- Napa Valley and the flagship Special Selection. During December, share the Ray’s dining experience and these exquisite, specially priced Caymus selections. Ray’s in the City and Ray’s on the River are offering Caymus cabernet sauvignon at $24/glass (8 oz.) and $100/bottle; Caymus Special Selection at $200/bottle and Mer Soleil Reserve chardonnay at $18/glass (8 oz.) and $55/bottle. Ray’s at Killer Creek offers the same three selections and per bottle prices, while by-the-glass pours differ: Caymus cabernet sauvignon is priced at $18/glass (6 oz.) or $27/glass (9 oz.) and Mer Soleil Reserve chardonnay is priced at $14/glass (6 oz.) or $20/glass (9 oz.). Merry Caymus, everyone!

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.

Scratch That…and Win with Ray’s Restaurants Scratch-Off Card Game

Ray’s Restaurants knows days and nights are super busy with holiday activities and festivities and that after the rush and gatherings, January and February can be rather, hmm, low key. Solution, dine at Ray’s during December and receive a scratch-off prize card that gifts something to look forward to savoring in 2018. Over Dec. 1-31, Ray’s in the City, Ray’s on the River and Ray’s at Killer Creek will hand out scratch-off cards to all paying guests (while supplies last). Hold on to those cards until returning to any Ray’s location during January or February, then have at it and see what 2018 deliciously beholds. Might be a complimentary appetizer or dessert, entrée BOGOs, 10-20 percent discounts or a 55-inch flat-screen television. One really lucky scratcher will win the grand prize, a cruise for two.

Appetizing Aperture

Colder nights send red meat cravings soaring. Ray’s Restaurants comes to the rescue, offering succulent Certified Angus Beef prime 14-ounce New York Strip at all three locations -- Ray’s in the City, Ray’s on the River and Ray’s at Killer Creek. The center-cut, 28-day aged steak is brushed with whole butter and charbroiled for tenderness and flavor and is served a la carte and topped with a crispy onion ring and red wine demi-glace ($42). 

Ray’s Restaurants’ Orin Swift Wine Promo Punts Hunger

Football’s tough. Hunger’s tougher. Join forces with Ray's Restaurants and the NFL to tackle hunger. Here’s the kicker: you can help by drinking wine. This fall, raising a glass or pouring a bottle of California’s Orin Swift wine at Ray’s Restaurants locations scores meals for those in need of food here in the Atlanta area. Huddle up for the game plan. The NFL will donate 30 meals to a local food bank for every case of Orin Swift wines sold at Ray’s through the fall season. All three Ray’s Restaurants -- Ray’s in the City, Ray’s on the River and Ray’s at Killer Creek -- are featuring several Orin Swift wines at special prices throughout the NFL promotion.

Full-bodied Mannequin chardonnay bursts with aromatics of honeydew, honeysuckle and ripe peach complemented by glimpses of jasmine, pineapple and cream ($60 bottle; $20 glass at Ray’s in the City/Ray’s on the River; $16 per six-ounce glass, $22 per nine-ounce glass at Ray’s at Killer Creek). Smooth, soft and satiating, Palermo cabernet sauvignon lures through aromas of raspberry and ripe cherry and hints of star anise, five spice and black tea ($75 bottle; $25 glass at Ray’s in the City/Ray’s on the River; $20 per six-ounce glass, $28 per nine-ounce glass at Ray’s at Killer Creek). Bold yet delicate Papillon Bordeaux blend, a new release, opens to cassis, boysenberry and chaparral and pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, a Ray’s specialty. ($95 bottle, all Ray’s locations). Orin Swift wines complement Ray’s signature entrées, succulent prime meats and sustainable, fresh-caught seafood -- as well as helping sustain neighbors in need. 

Ray’s Restaurants Features Special Pricing on Wines from Napa’s Chateau Montelena during August

A picture of Chateau Montelena Winery leads vintner voyeurs to swear they’re looking at a gothic English estate instead of the tasting room for one of Napa’s historic wineries, founded in 1882. Chateau Montelena’s handcrafted wines originate as a smaller crop of sustainably raised grapes grown in rocky soils before being fermented, aged and blended into concentrated, complex wines. Ray’s Restaurants -- Ray’s in the City, Ray’s on the River and Ray’s at Killer Creek -- is featuring two Chateau Montelena wines at special prices during the month of August. Enjoy Chateau Montelena chardonnay, not usually available at Ray’s, priced at $18/eight-ounce glass or $55/bottle and Chateau Montelena cabernet sauvignon priced at $25/eight-ounce glass or $75/bottle, usually $105/bottle. Pair wines with fresh seafood and fine meats from Ray’s menus and you’re well on your way to blissful sipping and supping. 

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

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

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

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

Ray’s Restaurants Shaves $100 Off Price of Dom Perignon through May 31

More bubbles, less bullion. Through May 31, all three Ray’s Restaurants are popping open bottles of Dom Perignon Champagne for $150 instead of the usual $250. Now that you’ve saved, how about a small splurge? Ray’s in the City, Ray’s on the River and Ray’s at Killer Creek are each featuring their own king salmon and soft shell crab seasonal specials. Those looking for a luscious lobster and champagne dinner can zero in on Ray’s signature lobster Cobb salad or specialties such as Canadian cold water lobster tail, a whole Maine lobster or an option to pair a cold water lobster tail with one of Ray’s top-quality Certified Angus Beef steaks. Hurry in, because like those Champagne bubbles, the Dom Perignon special will soon disappear.

Sip Orin Swift Wines for Less at Ray’s Restaurants through April 30

Ray’s Restaurants is featuring four Orin Swift Cellars wines at special pricing through April 30. The limited-time opportunity includes select varietals of these fine California wines from Ray’s cellar: Palermo cabernet sauvignon, $20 per glass or $60 per bottle; Machete petite sirah, $24 per glass or $65 per bottle; Papillon Bordeaux blend, $85 per bottle; and Mercury Head cabernet sauvignon, $140 per bottle. Come “Swift-ly” to savor this exquisite wine deal at Ray’s in the City, Ray’s on the River and Ray’s at Killer Creek. Cellared wines are subject to availability. When they’re gone, they’re gone.

Be Happy over More Hours for $1 Oysters and Half-Priced Apps at Ray’s Restaurants

Ray’s Restaurants reveals why its guests are so happy. Hand-cut steaks and fresh seafood, yes, but also for high-quality bar bites at half price. At Ray’s on the River in Sandy Springs and Ray’s at Killer Creek in Alpharetta, relish $1 oysters on the half shell and half-price appetizers including seared ahi tuna tataki, crispy Point Judith calamari, Ray’s “New Orleans” barbecue shrimp, Ray’s brisket burger, goat cheese pimiento fritters and Ray’s blue cheese chips. Enjoy the specials in bar and lounge areas (and on the creek-side patio at Ray’s at Killer Creek). Hours are 3-6 p.m. (Ray’s on the River) and 3-7 p.m. (Ray’s at Killer Creek), 9 p.m. to close and Sundays from 5-9 p.m. The downtown Atlanta after-work crowd unwinds at Ray’s in the City to live music (Tuesday through Saturday) and a revamped menu of bar friendly bites including Ray’s gourmet sliders (served with Ray’s house-cut fries), crispy fried Gulf shrimp and grits and half-price items including Ray’s “New Orleans” barbecue shrimp, steamed mussels, crispy Point Judith calamari, Ray’s blue cheese chips and a half-dozen oysters on the half shell. These specials rule Monday through Friday, 3-6 p.m. and 9 p.m. to close. In addition, all raw bar items are half price (excludes cold seafood tower) from 9 p.m. to close weekdays.

Easter is April 16! Find All Your Easter Eats Eggs in One Basket – The Dish

Easter arrives later than usual this year, giving us “eggs-tra” time to make plans and rejoice that it will probably be warm enough to NOT wear a coat over those new springy duds. Hightail it to these Atlanta restaurants on April 16 for Easter dining, drinks and fun, inside and out.

Rabbit trail it to Midtown where 5Church Atlanta at 14^th and Peachtree plans Easter specials and bottomless mimosas to go along with à la carte menu offerings. Deciding whether to dine out after sunrise service, high noon or capping the day? Peruse the brunch menu, served from 10 a.m.-3 p.m., and the dinner menu, available at 5 p.m. Celebratory cocktails and spirits play out all day.

Sail over to East Cobb for a Sunday brunch at Drift Fish House & Oyster Bar. Enjoy Easter specials in addition to the regular menu like Maine lobster omelette with chevre and smoked tomato butter; jumbo lump crab cake benedict with brown butter hollandaise, brioche and a poached egg; and seared scallops and maple-glazed pork belly with Vidalia onion soubise, asparagus, oyster mushrooms and a poached egg.

No need to rush the Easter fun. Sit down and stay a while for brunch and dinner at Food 101 from 10:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Feast on regular brunch and dinner favorites like the fried chicken biscuit; crab cake BLT; scallop salad; and three meat meatloaf. Easter specials include smoked lamb carpaccio with spring peas, shallot mousse, cured yolk, arugula on a lemon crostini; hickory-smoked, sorghum-glazed ham with Gayla’s Grits, roasted carrots and leaks with ham jus; and pan-roasted halibut with English peas and asparagus, spring vegetable consommé and fresh herbs.

Hop into HOBNOB Neighborhood Tavern in Midtown from 10:30 a.m.-4 p.m. for their beloved “Bubbly Brunch” with bottomless mimosas ($17) as well as brunch specialties “everybunny” loves and live music from 1-4 p.m. Consider the Wake and Bake pizza ($13), tiramisu French toast ($11), healthy Million Dollar Feeling plate ($13), The BASE salad ($11) or BYOB (Build Your Own Breakfast, $3.50-$12.50). The Hangover Helper ($13) cures whatever ails those who stayed up too late looking for the bunny, and a whole list of bloody marys, “mosas” and brunch cocktails are ready when you are. Fly back in for half-price wings from 4-11 p.m.

Ormsby’s shells out adult-style Easter egg fun! Each guest receives a plastic egg filled with either a piece of candy, a ticket for a free drink or some other prize. The Westside restaurant and pub is open from noon until midnight, and it’s menu specials are eggs-actly right for the day with additions of bourbon-glazed ham, smashed peas, roasted carrots and mashed potatoes. Besides, thirsty bunnies need a good watering hole, and Ormsby’s spirit list is lush with craft beer, craft cocktails and wines.

Easter Sunday, tip your bonnet and a bourbon, brunch punch or seasonal mimosa while choosing selections from The Southern Gentleman’s à la carte brunch menu, offered from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Hold off on jelly beans and Peeps to save room for smoked trout rillettes ($9), ricotta and lemon pancakes ($12), pimento cheese and bacon or Hang Town Fry omelet ($15), a traditional Monte Cristo ($15), New Orleans shrimp and grits ($16) and other new South favorites. The Easter Bunny pops into The Shops Buckhead Atlanta gastropub for a special appearance -- and maybe to bunny hop to live music from 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Three-hour free deck parking. Make reservations on OpenTable; call 404-939-9845 for information. 

Head home to Revival for a truly farm-fresh Southern Easter brunch or dinner at Kevin Gillespie’s Decatur cottage-turned-restaurant. Enjoy brunch from 10:30 a.m.-3 p.m. served from the regular à la carte menu. The dinner menu takes over from 5-9 p.m. Executive chef Andreas Müller plans to toss some Easter-themed specials into the basket along with the regular menu offerings.

For an enticing prix fixe Easter meal and a lovely garden setting, take the family to Milton’s Cuisine & Cocktails in historic Crabapple. Enjoy an elegant $32 prix fixe menu alongside such brunch staples as Charleston crab bisque, blackened salmon, Southern-fried chicken breast and French toast.

Honor Easter over sumptuous Easter Sunday buffets at Ray’s Restaurants. Ray’s in the City spreads its Easter buffet from 10 a.m.-3:30 p.m.; $39.95/adult, $19.95/ages 5-10. Feast on boneless leg of lamb and Virginia ham at the carving station; made-to-order omelets and waffles at the breakfast station; seafood gumbo, ham and eggs Benedict, prime rib, deep-fried Southern chicken tenders, roasted chicken with herbs, seafood alfredo pasta, salmon croquettes, beef Burgundy, broiled grouper medallions and sides galore. Fill in display and dessert options – from fruit, cheese, charcuterie, seafood and salads to coconut cake, eclairs, banana pudding and pecan pie. Those preferring to celebrate over dinner can order from the à la carte dinner menu from 5-8 p.m. that evening. Reservations: 404-524-9224. Ray’s on the River in Sandy Springs comes through with a beautiful riverside view for Easter pictures as well as a bountiful brunch buffet offered from 9 a.m.-7 p.m. for $45.95/adult, $22.95 ages 5-10. Buffet offerings include morning options through early afternoon then segue more toward afternoon and evening fare as the day progresses. All day, guests can enjoy seafood and salad bars, a build-your-own waffle station, an array of house-made desserts and a meaty carving station featuring herb-roasted prime rib, Virginia ham, salmon in puff pastry, Cheshire baby back ribs and sweet tea fried chicken. Reservations: 770-955-1187. In Alpharetta, Ray’s at Killer Creek is ready to please from 10 a.m.-7 p.m., offering a mouthwatering Easter Sunday buffet featuring traditional brunch favorites and sides, a made-to-order omelet station, build-your-own salad and pasta bars, house-smoked salmon, and specialties including rosemary roasted leg of lamb, BBQ smoked brisket, prime rib, lamb sliders with tzatziki, butterfly shrimp and stuffed flounder. A crepe station, cheese blintzes with berry compote, chocolate mousse, panna cotta cups, red velvet cake and other riches call out from the dessert bar. $39.95/adult, $19.95/ages 5-10. Reservations: 770-649-0064.

Keep checking our blog for more specials and festive menus from Atlanta’s best restaurants.

Georgia Restaurant Association Recognizes Good Neighbor Restaurants, Including Ray’s Restaurants, Sterling Spoon Hospitality, Hojeij Branded Foods and Willy’s Mexicana Grill

The word’s out, the Georgia Restaurant Association (GRA) has announced the 2017 Restaurant Neighbor award state recipients. We’re not surprised that Ray’s Restaurants, Sterling Spoon Hospitality, Hojeij Branded Foods and Willy’s Mexicana Grill comprise four of the five Georgia winners. Congratulations to these restaurants for being, well, such good neighbors in Georgia communities.

Ray Schoenbaum and Ray’s on the River have supported Fragile Kids Foundation each year since 1988 through events at the riverside restaurant, including the Tastings Under the Tent fundraiser and an annual Santa breakfast. John C. Metz and Sterling Spoon Hospitality have raised more than $730k for Special Olympics Georgia since the partnership began. The 2016 golf tournament alone raised $95k. Nourishment ranks high on the list for Metz and Sterling Spoon, evident in hosting fundraising events for the Atlanta Community Food Bank and participating in the annual Hunger Run/Walk as well as the annual dine-out event for Share Our Strength’s No Kid Hungry Campaign. In 2015, Regynald Washington of Hojeij Branded Foods gave a $1 million endowment to the Cecil B. Day School of Hospitality Administration at Georgia State University’s J. Mack Robinson College of Business to go toward graduate student scholarships, enhancing global experiences and expanding teaching technology. Since 2014, Willy Bitter and Willy’s Mexicana Grill have actively sponsored the Boys & Girls Club, supporting the annual “Salsa, Salsa” culinary challenge and Healthy Lifestyles Garden Program. When Willy’s anniversary rolls around, the restaurants raise money for the Boys & Girls Club, pulling in $20k in 20 days in 2015 and $21k in 21 days in 2016.

From all state winners, three national Restaurant Neighbor Award winners are chosen by industry professionals and are honored in Washington, D.C. in March 2017 during the National Restaurant Association’s Public Affairs Conference.

Ray’s Restaurants Crack Open Lobsterfest

Lobsterfest 101. Be nice. No clawing. Ray’s Restaurants has a direct line to succulent whole Maine lobsters for Lobsterfest, which is now available at all three locations -- Ray’s in the City, Ray’s on the River and Ray’s at Killer Creek. Appease crustacean cravings with a 1.25 pound whole Maine lobster, choice of artisan field greens or Caesar salad and a side choice of Yukon Gold whipped potatoes or chef’s vegetable du jour for $29.95 (excludes tax, gratuity, drinks). The “Summertime at Ray’s” two-course dinner menu is available for those who prefer surf & turf ($29.95) or wild salmon ($24.95) to making the Maine thing their main thing.

Net Best of Land and Sea with Ray’s Restaurants’ Summer Prix Fixe

Sea or shore? Ray’s Restaurants straddles both options on a two-course menu available at Ray's in the City, Ray’s on the River and Ray's at Killer Creek through early August. The “Land & Sea” menu dives right into a choice of artisan field greens or Caesar salad. For an entrée, choose Ray’s Surf & Turf featuring a six-ounce filet mignon, four-ounce lobster tail and Yukon Gold whipped potatoes ($29.95) or a six-ounce cut of wild salmon with asparagus risotto and red wine butter ($24.95). Call it a meal or add on a dessert course of New York cheesecake or chocolate mousse cake for an additional $5. Priced per person; price excludes beverage, tax and gratuity. Sorry, no splitting the menu.

Ray’s Restaurants Offer Military Discounts and Double Dining Club Points on Memorial Day, May 30

An all-American holiday deserves an all-American meal of steaks, seafood, signature dishes or even some Tex-Mex. All Ray’s Restaurants -- Ray’s in the City, Ray’s on the River, Ray’s at Killer Creek and Ray’s Rio Bravo will be open and eager to serve from noon-9 p.m. on Memorial Day, May 30. As a token of appreciation, the restaurants are extending a 20 percent discount to all veterans and active-duty military plus one guest. Additionally, Dining Club members will receive double points for Memorial Day purchases.

Appetizing Aperture

Saturday, May 28 is National Brisket Day. “Oh,” you say, “there goes my day, watching the smoker smoke that darn brisket into a state of tenderness.” Not so. The Brisket Burger ($14) at Ray’s Restaurants is ready at lunchtime, Monday through Saturday. Ray’s plops the beefy boy on a toasted brioche bun and dresses it up with local craft beer cheese, house-made pickles, bibb lettuce, vine-ripened tomato and onion and serves it with hand-cut fries, chips or a side salad. There’s a reason the Brisket Burger falls into the “Handhelds” menu category at all three Ray’s Restaurants –Ray’s in the City, Ray’s on the River (also available on Bar Bites menu) and Ray’s at Killer Creek (also available on Bar Bites and dinner menus). You will need the napkin.

Chefs and Mixologists Map Out 2016 Hot Trends

We asked some of the South’s best chefs and mixologists to check their GPS readings (Gourmet Prediction Senses) and share directions on where they see food and cocktail trends heading in 2016. Microscopic portions? Kale kudos? Recalculating.

• Spice spikes -- Southern Gentleman and Gypsy Kitchen chef Matthew Ridgway plans to add depth with principal players from eastern lands: black garlic, black lime, black cardamom, white cardamom, Aleppo pepper and wolfberries (a.k.a. goji berries).
• New cuts, grain gains -- Moxie Kitchen + Cocktails chef Tom Gray in Jacksonville, Florida looks for novel meats such as chicken livers, pig ears and flank steak to land on plates. Another kernel of insight points to alternative grains, emphasizing whole and ancient varieties.
• Origins -- Atlanta’s Ray’s Restaurants consultant Chad Crete predicts a vegetable takeover as diners pursue healthier eating habits. Lineage is equally important. Customers want to know where their food originates and are seeking out local produce, sustainable fish and free-range and hormone- and antibiotic-free meats. Moxie’s Gray dittos Crete, noting diners want the backstory on ingredients, enthusiastically supporting smaller carbon footprints generated by locally made products and urban farming businesses. Ridgway unpacks further, suggesting the deepening affection for Southern cooking will lead to greater dependence on local farmers for heirloom varieties of produce, beans and grains. Bellina Alimentari creative director Alice Fabi sees land sustainability as a critical 2016 food path priority as menus seek the essence of food and prime ingredients.
• Oysters -- Doug Turbush of Seed Kitchen & Bar, Stem Wine Bar and soon-to-open Drift Fish House & Oyster Bar offers pearls of wisdom, foreseeing a bright future for briny oysters as devotee interest increases in oyster slurping rituals and the nuances of oysters from various regions, terroir and growing methods. Flavor-masking cocktail sauces and horseradish will be tossed overboard.
• Prized portions -- Bantam + Biddy and Chick-a-Biddy chef Lance Gummere cries “fowl” on high-priced, minuscule portions garnished with dabs of purée and micro greens. Enough already. Folks want to share their food when dining out, Gummere believes, which necessitates restaurants filling plates with identifiable food.
• Healthy and hop to it -- Chef, restaurant owner, speaker and cookbook author Kevin Gillespie of Red Beard Restaurants sees an uptick in consumer demand for faster, healthier options. Not salad bars but lighter cuisine served at fast-food speed. Crete of Ray’s Restaurants affirms, millennials, soon to be the nation’s largest demographic group, want local ingredients in chef-driven dishes served fast and affordably.
• Kitchen cocktails -- Johnny’s Hideaway bartender Shawn McCoy sees bartenders shaking up the kitchen for cocktail perks such as freshly squeezed juices, herbs, spices and ingredients like chipotle and balsamic vinegar. Ice age? McCoy picks away at standard issue cubes as mixologists seek quality ice for drinks.
• Be sensitive -- Food sensitivities are here to stay and gluten-free demands will keep rising, according to Milton’s Cuisine & Cocktails and The Big Ketch Roswellchef Derek Dollar.
• Tiki talk -- Amid the predictions, Kevin Gillespie would like to see one flashback to retro Tiki bars like Trader Vic’s!  

Give Thanks for Atlanta Restaurants Nixing Feast-Fixing Stress with Bountiful Buffets and Tantalizing Takeouts

Seen the planning charts for organizing Thanksgiving dinner? One month out do this. Two weeks out do that. Set the table and the buffet. Buy the wine and thaw the turkey. Stop. Reflect. Be thankful for family, friends and Atlanta restaurants ready to gobble up any stress with all-you-can-eat buffets and scrumptious take-away entrées and sides. You’ll only need to make reservations. So blessed.

Kick off the celebration early and give thanks at Atkins Park Restaurant & Bar in Virginia-Highland where they’re throwing a Thanksgiving Eve party with New Belgium Brewing Company on Wednesday, November 25. Make your way back on Thanksgiving Day for dinner service beginning at 4 p.m. featuring Big Green Egg smoked turkey and all the fixin’s. Priced at $28 for adults, $18 for young adults and $10 for children 10 and under. Reservations are recommended for dinner. Call 404-876-7249.

10th & Piedmont hosts its traditional Thanksgiving Day buffet from 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Stations cover all the food groups: a carving station for roasted garlic prime rib and slow-baked brown butter turkey breast; cold station for salads, fruits and cheeses; a hot station bears roasted butternut squash bisque, Creole shrimp and stone-ground yellow grits, traditional turkey cornbread dressing, triple-cheese mac and cheese, candied sweet potatoes and more; and dessert central offers pumpkin pie, Southern pecan pie, chocolate ganache cake, apple butter crumble bread pudding, Dutch apple pie and Chantilly banana pudding. $34.95 per person. Call 404-602-5510 for reservations.

Ray’s Restaurants’ buffets give center stage to Thanksgiving staples and signature Ray’s favorites. Dine at Ray’s on the River from 10 a.m.-9 p.m. for $45.95 per adult and $22.95 per child (ages 5-10). The spread at Ray’s at Killer Creek also is available from 10 a.m.-9 p.m. and is priced at $37.95 per adult and $18.95 per child. Ray’s in the City closes an hour earlier, with its buffet running from 10 a.m.-8 p.m. and also priced at $37.95 per adult and $18.95 per child. For full menus and reservations, visit raysrestaurants.com.

Saltwood Charcuterie & Bar spotlights a family style lunch and dinner menu on Thanksgiving Day. For $65 per person, guests can enjoy a traditional turkey dinner or baked Chilean sea bass along with such selections as roasted butternut squash soup, smoked country ham, roasted root vegetables, sweet potato roulade and local apple fritters. Lunch, 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m.; dinner, 5-9:30 p.m. Call 404-745-5000 for reservations.

Turkey to go

Let Bantam + Biddy on Crescent Avenue handle the cooking this year with a to-go Thanksgiving feast that easily feeds 10-12 hungry and grateful guests. Spread includes a 12- to 15-pound roasted Amish turkey, classic mashed potatoes, braised collard greens, sage and wild rice stuffing, homemade giblet gravy, a quart of spicy cranberry sauce, cornbread and North Georgia apple pie, all ready to heat and serve. Place orders for the $200 feast by 5 p.m. on Saturday, November 21. Pick up between 1-3 p.m. on Wednesday, November 25 at the Crescent Avenue location only. To place your order, call 404-725-5059 or email wecater@bantamandbiddy.com.
 
Make Wednesday night prep even easier or say, "arrivederci!" to tired turkey leftovers. Please the family with grab-and-go Italian fare from newly opened Bellina Alimentari in Ponce City Market (PCM). Bellina's Market in the PCM Food Hall has take-home, family style portions of lasagna and other Italian favorites to heat, eat and satiate your crowd pre- and post-Thanksgiving feast.

Feed a table of six to eight guests for $75 with a 12-to 14-pound apple-brined Thanksgiving turkey from Milton’s Cuisine & Cocktails accompanied by Madeira gravy and sage-corn spoonbread. Sides of mashed or rosemary-roasted potatoes, green beans, grilled asparagus and pimiento cheese grits are available for $20 per quart. Place orders online by Friday, November 20 for pick up November 24 and 25.

Traditionalists preferring to roast or smoke their own Thanksgiving turkey will give thanks for White Oak Pastures'high-quality American Standard Bronze birds that are Animal Welfare Approved, Certified Humane and rated Step 5+ (highest possible rating) by the Global Animal Partnership. Raised completely unconfined on White Oak’s farm, they come to the table free of antibiotics, hormones and other additives—and completely delicious. Pricing is $75 for small (8-12 pounds), $100 for medium-sized birds (12.1-16 pounds) and $125 for large (16.1 pounds and heavier). Order via White Oak Pastures’ online store. All turkeys will be shipped the week before Thanksgiving (Monday, November 16 – Friday, November 20) to ensure timely delivery.

Post-Turkey Tango

After the big meal, excuse yourself from the table and ease your way to Johnny’s Hideaway to dance off the stuffing and pie. The Buckhead nightspot will open at 7 p.m. on Thanksgiving Day. Reservations are accepted until 8:30 p.m. Call 404-233-8026.