Get Your Food Fix on MySpace

We all turn to myspace to see what’s going on where and who’s saying what. It’s become the present day party line, and hip Atlanta restaurants and gathering places such as Ecco, Trilogy, Marlow’s Tavern, Food Studio and The GLOBE are right in there with their own pages. Be a BFF and visit these pages before and after you go! It's a great way to spot upcoming events, new menus and photos of the eateries. Here are a few of our favorite myspace links:

Marlow’s Tavern
Off the web - 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.

Trilogy
Off the web - 4930 Davidson Road off Johnson Ferry behind the Parkaire shopping center in East Cobb; 770-971-4770.

The Globe
Off the web - 75 Fifth Street, NW; 404-541-1487.

Fifth Group Restaurants®
Off the web – Ecco: 40 7th Street; 404-347-9555. Food Studio: 887 W. Marietta Street in the King Plow Arts Center; 404-815-6677. La Tavola Trattoria: 992 Virginia Avenue, NE in Virginia-Highland; 404-873-5430. South City Kitchen Midtown: 1144 Crescent Avenue; 404-873-7358. South City Kitchen Vinings: 1675 Cumberland Parkway; 770-435-0700. Bold American Catering: 887 W. Marietta Street in the King Plow Arts Center; 678-302-3251.

“Let’s Eat Out” is Second Only To “I Love You” on Mother’s Day, May 11

The first meal I remember making for my mom was Mother's Day breakfast in bed when I was four years old. My older brother and I thought it would be great to make her a "balanced breakfast" like they showed on the cereal commercials. First, we made her a bowl of cereal, then, we made her two slices of toast and finally, poured her a glass of orange juice. To make the tray look pretty, I ran to the garden and picked her a flower.

Needless to say that by the time we got the breakfast to her, the cereal was soggy, the toast was cold (and messy) and I got thirsty so a drank a sip of her juice. She said she loved it!

Fortunately, I am wise enough now to know that there are better options for mom's special day. This Mother’s Day, Sunday, May 11, I can't wait to say those three magic words – “Let’s eat out!”

Chefs at these restaurants have been preparing for Mother’s Day with buffets and menus that will have her saying “I love you!”

Two hot spots are already sold out so make a note to check these out early next year: Canoe's riverside brunch and Wolf Mountain Vineyards & Winery's mountain setting brunch.

Aqua Blue heaps mom’s favorites on the brunch buffet. From 10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., grab a plate and fill it with items such as strip steak and carved turkey, chicken rotini primavera in cream sauce, eggs Benedict and breakfast pastries. $29.95/adults, $9.95/children ages four to 12 and free for children under four. Regular dinner menu takes over from 5 to 9 p.m. 1564 Holcomb Bridge Road in Roswell; 770-643-8886.

Bonefish Grill brings out the grilled fish and delectable sauces that grace the regular menu from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Buford: 3420 Buford Drive; 678-546-8240. Johns Creek: 11705 C Jones Bridge Road; 770-475-6668. Macon: 5080 Riverside Drive, Building 500, Suite 506; 478-477-5256. Snellville: 1350 Scenic Highway 124 in The Avenue Webb Gin; 678-344-8945.

Ecco whisks Mom to a European bistro brunch with a special menu from 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. Open for dinner from 5 to 9 p.m. 40 7th Street at Cypress in Midtown; 404-347-9555.

Fogo de Chão salutes moms with savory slow-roasted meats from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Mother’s Day; $38.50 per person. The Brazilian churrascaria will be serving dinner that night from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m.; $46.50 per person. 3101 Piedmont Road; 404-266-9988.

Food Studio® paints a masterpiece of food and art to celebrate Mom’s day. Special brunch buffet from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.; $39.95 per person. Children’s menu for $10 per child (12 and under). Open for dinner from 5:30 to 9 p.m. 887 West Marietta Street in the King Plow Arts Center; 404-815-6677.

The GLOBE provides the ideal spot for Yellow Jacket and Midtown moms to celebrate the day from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Regular brunch menu. 75 Fifth Street, NW in Technology Square; 404-541-1487.

La Tavola Trattoria jets Mom to Italy in nearby Virginia-Highlands. Order from the brunch menu from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. or the regular dinner menu from 5:30 to 10 p.m. 992 Virginia Avenue, NE; 404-873-5430.

Marlow’s Tavern (Alpharetta, Kennesaw, Midtown and Vinings) pours it on for the American casual mom with the regular brunch menu from 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. and the regular dinner menu from 3 p.m. to 12 a.m. Alpharetta: 3719 Old Alabama Road, 770-475-1800. Kennesaw: 745 Chastain Road, NW, 770-425-8777. Midtown: 950 West Peachtree Street, 404-815-0323. Vinings: 2355 Cumberland Parkway, 770-432-2526.

Morton’s The Steakhouse in Buckhead and Downtown serves a mom-worthy prix fixe menu on Mother’s Day for $59 per person. Choose a salad; one entrée from a selection of filets, fish and chicken dishes; one side dish; and a dessert. Open from 3 to 9 p.m. in Buckhead in the Peachtree Lenox Building at 3379 Peachtree Road, NE; 404-816-6535. Open from 4 to 9 p.m. Downtown in the SunTrust Plaza Building at 303 Peachtree Center Avenue; 404-577-4366.

South City Kitchen® whips up contemporary Southern dishes that give mom the day off from cooking but not from good eating. Enjoy brunch at the Midtown location from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. or the regular dinner menu from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. 1144 Crescent Avenue; 404-873-7358. Brunch will be served at the Vinings location from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.; order from the regular dinner menu from 3 p.m. to 10 p.m. 1675 Cumberland Parkway; 770-435-0700.

Trilogy is East Cobb-close for an all-you-can-eat buffet brunch from 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Mother’s Day. $23.95/adults; $8.95/children. Seating is limited and reservations are required. The restaurant will not be open for dinner. 4930 Davidson Road; 770-971-4770.

VITA will serve the regular dinner menu from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. and will have flowers for moms. Mama mia, now that’s Italian! 2110 Peachtree Road; 404-367-8482.

Woodfire Grill serves mom local ingredients prepared with Northern Californian style from the regular menu. Open from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. on Mother’s Day. 1782 Cheshire Bridge Road; 404-347-9055.

During Tax Week and Beyond, Restaurants Help You Count Pennies After the Bean Counter Counts Your Dough

Hopefully, you’ve already e-filed or mailed in your tax forms (deadline is midnight tonight!). Windfall refund blowing your way? Celebrate! If your dirge is “I owe, I owe, so off to work I go,” take heart with these bar and dining strategies that stretch your post-tax dollars.

Fogo de Chão carves the same 15 cuts of savory meats at lunch for nearly half the price of the evening meal! All-you-can-eat lunch costs $29.50 versus $46.50 for dinner. The big-as-Brazil salad bar has plenty of greens and more! 3101 Piedmont Road; 404-266-9988.

The GLOBE plays a tempting four-on-four deal during Wine Down Wednesdays so you can spend a night out without spending a fortune. Four appetizer “bites” and four wine tastings cost a mere $15 from 6 – 8 p.m. 75 Fifth Street, NW in Midtown; 404-541-1487.

Marlow's Tavern passes savings on to the gals at Wednesdays’ “Girls’ Night Out” events. During April, Marlow’s showers the gals with light and luscious food and drink specials. $5 “Ladies Choice” appetizers wow, whether it’s the tequila-lime shrimp martini, lime-marinated chicken satay with fresh guac or a tomato and basil bruschetta. A glass full of excitement is just $5 as well! Try the signature “Tropical Elixir” and “Orange Marmalade.” Adding an element of surprise, each Marlow’s location will feature its own special cocktail of choice on Wednesdays – and even we don’t know what it will be where! April deals continue as each Marlow’s location lines up a $5 white wine flight and a $5 red wine flight for the gals! At all Marlow’s Tavern locations: Alpharetta - 3719 Old Alabama Road, 770-475-1800; Kennesaw - 745 Chastain Road, NW, 770-425-8777; Midtown - 950 West Peachtree Street, 404-815-0323; Vinings - 2355 Cumberland Parkway, 770-432-2526.

Morton’s The Steakhouse “Power Hour” in Buckhead and Downtown provides timely ways to save dough, offering a half-priced Bar Bites menu ($4/plate) from 5 to 6:30 p.m. and from 9 to 11 p.m. Monday through Friday. Technically, Power Hour runs longer than an hour, but that’s in your favor so who’s watching the clock! Start salivating over $4 selections such as the mini cheeseburger trio with more than half a pound of USDA prime beef with cheddar cheese, tomato slices, iceberg lettuce and onion, served on silver dollar rolls; four petite filet mignon sandwiches served on seeded ciabatta dinner rolls; crispy fried chicken goujonettes; and crab, spinach and artichoke dip with toasted bread croutons. Oysters on the half shell are just $1.50 each, and colossal shrimp are $2.50 a piece. Buckhead: Peachtree Lenox Building at 3379 Peachtree Road, NE; 404-816-6535. Downtown in the SunTrust Plaza Building at 303 Peachtree Center Avenue; 404-577-4366.

Trilogy spreads the wealth of savings throughout the week! Every Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday Trilogy pours half-price martinis and wine-by-the-glass, and Coors Light beer is $2.Monday fills the bill with bottomless pasta bowls for $8.95. Top linguini, orchetti or penne pasta with your choice of marinara, meat sauce, Alfredo or tomato basil sauce; Trilogy rounds out the meal with tossed salad and warm crusty bread.Tuesdays are Shrimp Steamer Nights. Plunk down $10.95 and dig into a full pound of steamed shrimp with warm garlic butter, red skin potatoes and corn on the cob.Wednesday’s all-you-care-to-eat helpings of Mama Martin's Meatloaf are a Southern-style comfort that’s decked out with green beans, mashed potatoes and pan gravy for $9.95. 4930 Davidson Road off Johnson Ferry behind the Parkaire shopping center in East Cobb; 770-971-4770.

Wolf Mountain Vineyards & Winery provides a wine-country thrill without airport hassles, fuel surcharges or taxing time-zone changes. Wine tastings are $10 per person, including a souvenir glass, on Monday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday from noon until 5 p.m., and on Sunday from 12:30 to 5 p.m. Call 706-867-9862 for reservations then head north to Dahlonega, Georgia. 180 Wolf Mountain Trail.

Woodfire Grill keeps your budget in mind with Executive Chef/Owner Michael Tuohy’s expanded small plates menu. Many of Woodfire Grill's previous entrée options have been made into smaller portions so diners can share and enjoy numerous flavors and textures. Recent examples (the menu changes daily) include wood-grilled Sonoma artisan duck breast with Anson Mills polenta and truffle sauce; handmade tagliatelle with Georgia white shrimp, guanciale, chiles, garlic and San Marzano tomato sauce; and carnaroli risotto with porcini mushrooms, butter and Parmigiano-Reggiano. So if you don’t want to blow your dining budget on a big meal, take Woodfire Grill’s small plates menu for a spin. 1782 Cheshire Bridge Road; 404-347-9055.

March Into Trilogy For This Month's Specials

Run or drive if you'd rather, just don't miss Trilogy's March specials! So hearty, even those who come in hungry as lions will leave as content as lambs. Trilogy's complete menu and entertainment calendar are available on the restaurant's web site.

Every Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday, all martinis and wine by the glass are half price, and $2 Coors Light makes a bargain quencher!

Bottomless pasta bowls fill Monday night diners for a mere $8.95. Choose linguini, orchetti or penne pasta and your favorite sauce: marinara, meat, alfredo or tomato basil. Sop up sauce with warm, crusty bread and enjoy a crisp, tossed salad.

Tuesdays are shrimp steamer nights! Finger foodies will love this: $10.95 brings a full pound of steamed shrimp with warm garlic butter, red skin potatoes and corn on the cob to your plate!

Mama Martin's meatloaf comforts chow hounds on Wednesdays. All-you-care-to-eat Southern- style meatloaf cozies up to green beans, mashed potatoes and pan gravy for $9.95.

Trilogy: 4930 Davidson Road behind the Parkaire shopping center in East Cobb; 770-971- 4770.

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.

Leap for Joy! Leap Year's Extra Day Turns Into An Extra Night To Dine Out!

There are two things you can do in Atlanta only once every four years: vote in a national election and dine out on February 29. True, November’s a few months off, but February 29 is this Friday! Carpe diem and dine on at these Atlanta classics and newcomers:

Aria – Executive Chef Gerry Klaskala’s slow food is an appropriate pick for this bonus day. And Aria has other bonuses – sexy environs, very attentive staff and Pastry Chef Kathryn King’s captivating desserts. 490 East Paces Ferry Road; 404-233-7673. http://www.aria-atl.com/

Canoe - Slow down and savor the extra hours amid the serene Chattahoochee setting of Canoe in Vinings. Award-winning regional menu, wine list and service. 4199 Paces Ferry Road, NW; 770-432-2663. http://www.canoeatl.com/

Morton’s – Steak out the extra hours…or choose succulent lobster at this American classic steakhouse known around the world for its prime, aged beef, fine wines and impeccably trained staff. Buckhead: Peachtree Lenox Building at 3379 Peachtree Road, NE; 404-816-6535. Downtown: 303 Peachtree Center Avenue in the SunTrust Plaza Building; 404-577-4366. http://www.mortons.com/

South City Kitchen® – This bustling hub for Southern hospitality and new-South favorites has exhibition kitchens and friendly faces at both locations. Reservations suggested. South City Kitchen Midtown: open daily for lunch and dinner, and Sunday brunch at 1144 Crescent Avenue; 404-873-7358. South City Kitchen Vinings: open for dinner nightly and Sunday brunch at 1675 Cumberland Parkway; 770-435-0700. http://www.fifthgroup.com/

Allegro – Time stands still when you’re dining on authentic Central Italian fare rich with the flavors of local and imported ingredients. Buon appetito! 560 Dutch Valley Road in the Belvedere condominium building; 404-888-1890. http://www.allegroatlanta.com/

Marlow’s Kennesaw – What more of an excuse do you need to meet friends for a signature cocktail and hearty tavern fare at this congenial gathering place? 745 Chastain Road, NW, Suite 1160; 770-425-8777. http://www.marlowstavern.com/

Trilogy – Food, drinks, entertainment…it’s a leap year party waiting to unfold at this suburban hot spot with an urban edge. 4930 Davidson Road behind the Parkaire shopping center in East Cobb; 770-971-4770. http://www.trilogydining.net/

Pop the Cork and Open that Bottle!

DON’T LET “THE FAT ONE” GET AWAY! LA TAVOLA TRATTORIA SERVES “LA GRASSA” MENU THROUGH MARCH 1
Intimate and cozy La Tavola Trattoria is big on Bologna! The capital city -- and culinary capital -- of Emilia, Romagna in northern Italy has been dubbed “la grassa” or “the fat one.” Sounds like a huge inspiration for this Fifth Group Restaurant’s “La Grassa” dinner menu presenting some of the region’s best flavors Wednesday, February 20 through Saturday, March 1. Ragù, Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese and Modena’s balsamic vinegar all claim Bologna as home and hold their own on the La Grassa menu ($6 - $21), which includes:

Antipasti -bomba di riso, rice timbale filled with peas and braised duck ragù with a salad of dressed frisèe; tagliata di Manzo, seared, thinly shaved beef with Parmigiano-Reggiano, arugula and balsamic vinegar; lentil soup with parsnips, butternut squash and a dollop of herbed ricotta; and a blood orange salad with mâche, grana padano cheese, shaved red onion and saba.
Primi- options range from saffron risotto with braised veal and beef ragù to lasagna with braised rabbit and wild mushrooms to capellacci, a sweet squash in capon broth.
Secondi - selections include bocconcini with chicken, sausage, cipollini onions, potatoes, rosemary and balsamic vinegar; grilled pork chop with radicchio, pears and vin cotto; and a roasted monkfish with potatoes, fennel, Taggiasca olives, thyme and Meyer lemon.
Dolci- delights with a cinnamon and clove budino with blueberries and saba.

The La Grassa dinner menu will be offered prix fixe or à la carte during regular dinner hours. Wine pairings selected by Fifth Group Restaurants’ Beverage Director Vajra Stratigos will be available for an additional cost. 992 Virginia Avenue; 404-873-5430. http://www.fifthgroup.com/

Virtual voyeurs will want to tune in to this online exhibition video of La Tavola Trattoria Executive Chef Craig Richards preparing a roasted chicken and mild Italian sausage dish.

CANOE FEATURES EYRIE VINEYARDS AT RIVERSIDE WINEMAKER DINNER ON FEBRUARY 21
The staff at Canoe thinks of everything: Riverside setting, heated dining tent, four gourmet courses and delightful wines from Eyrie Vineyards, one of the first wineries in Oregon’s Willamette Valley. David Lett founded the winery in 1965 when he planted Oregon’s first Pinot Noir and America’s first Pinot Gris vines. In 1980, Eyrie’s 1975 Pinot Noir competed successfully with French Burgundy in a Paris tasting. This week, on Thursday, February 21, guests can mingle and sip at the 6:30 p.m. hors d’oeuvre reception before settling down for dinner at 7 p.m. Eyrie Winemaker and Manager Jason Lett, son of Eyrie founder David Lett, will be there to share knowledge, and Executive Chef Carvel Grant Gould’s menu will feature wine-complementing meats and seafood dishes. $125 per person (tax and gratuity included). For reservations, call Laurie Vance at 770-436-9292.

Can’t make the dinner? Eyrie wines will be featured through February 21 along with Canoe’s renowned cuisine. 4199 Paces Ferry Road, NW; 770-432-2663.

WE’VE BEEN MEANING TO OPEN THIS BOTTLE FOREVER! THANK BACCHUS, FEBRUARY 23 IS “OPEN THAT BOTTLE NIGHT!
”Perhaps you know of this condition. . .that of the special bottle waiting quietly on the rack for an occasion worthy of its corkage. Get the corkscrew ready, the night is here! Saturday, February 23 is “Open That Bottle Night,” a time to celebrate good memories, favorite wines and the gifted sommeliers and beverage directors who steer us through Atlanta’s wine and beverage lists!

Would you buy a drink from a bareboat captain? Matt Bradford, Wine Director at Canoe, is that man!
After chartering a 43-foot boat through the Southern Caribbean and hiking for two months on the Appalachian Trail, selecting the perfect wine alongside the Chattahoochee River is a piece of cake for avid outdoorsman and Canoe Wine Director Mike Bradford! From the outside in, Bradford is a natural for the job. Bradford is at home managing both front-of-the-house wine and beverage operations and educating the staff so they can help patrons make wise beverage selections. The UGA alumnus, who has also served and bartended at Canoe, continues his own education by pursuing certifications from The Court of Master Sommeliers and then passing on his new knowledge to his staff. Canoe: 4199 Paces Ferry Road, NW; 770-432-2663.

In the business since age 10. . .Vajra Stratigos, Fifth Group Restaurants®’ Beverage Director
An enthusiasm for all things liquid has propelled Vajra Stratigos through the beverage world more forcefully than ice in a blender. Being born into a family of Greco-Italian restaurateurs gave Vajra an early start in the field at the age of 10. Over the years, Stratigos has racked up many professional milestones of his own: certifications from the International Wine Guild, Court of Master Sommeliers, The Wine and Spirits Education Trust and The Society of Wine Educators, and being distinguished as a “Rising Star Sommelier” by Starchefs.com. His favorite poet, Kahlil Gibran, wrote, “Work is love made visible.” Thus, Stratigos is poetry in motion. . . at his restaurants, charity events and when giving out wine advice and cocktail mixing how-to’s on his blog. Fifth Group Restaurants owns and operates Ecco, Food Studio®, La Tavola Trattoria, South City Kitchen® Midtown and Vinings and Bold American Catering®.

Cocktail chemist welcomes all! Michael Stachura, Marlow’s Tavern Director of Beverage Operations
The word “tavern,” as in Marlow’s Tavern, conjures up images of a seasoned beverage master, well-versed in the ways of welcoming guests. With a decade of experience in the hospitality and beverage industry in his glass, Michael Stachura has poured this mix into his role as Director of Beverage Operations for Marlow’s Tavern since 2004. Stachura is one part cocktail chemist and one part business: The FSU grad creates Marlow’s signature drink recipes, including the one for Atlanta’s first pomegranate martini, and develops beverage programs for Aqua Blue and High Life restaurants. On his shelf, management and development experience at East Andrews Café and Andrews Upstairs, The Tavern at Phipps, The Clubhouse, Dantanna’s and Twist. Marlow’s Tavern locations: 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.

Hooked on French Champagne -- John David Harmon, Whole Foods Markets’ Specialty Coordinator for Wine and Cheese
John David Harmon learned two lessons at an early age: that bread was the staff of life as he earned $1 a night plating bread for his chef father, and celebrations such as New Year’s Eve call for French champagne. Years later, the UGA grad is still hooked on sparkling wine and has traveled the globe delving into wine and food. He’s written a monthly wine column for Barcelona Metropolitan while exploring the Spanish wine country and living in Spain. He earned an MBA-IM at Thunderbird, The American Graduate School in International Management in Arizona, then moved to La Paz, Bolivia as a consultant while honing his now fluent Spanish. With visions of wine and cheese still haunting him, he returned to Atlanta as cheese monger and buyer for Star Provisions before making his home at Whole Foods Market. Here, the world explorer is content to explore a seemingly endless world of new wines, beers, cheeses and chocolates. A toast of French champagne seems appropriate!

Seven locations of Whole Foods Markets in Metro Atlanta:
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

VP and GMs value knowledge of the vine at Morton’s The Steakhouse
There’s more than one expert behind the wine lists at upscale Morton’s in Buckhead and Downtown: Vice President Wine and Spirits Tylor Field, Assistant General Manager-Downtown Jon Strudthoff, and Assistant General Manager-Buckhead Tim Thurman. Tylor Field began his career with Morton’s in Boston in 1990 and has since held positions of General Manager, Regional Manager-West Coast and Regional Manager-East Coast. Field, who is on the Court of Master Sommeliers (1st Level) and Millennium Board, oversees all purchasing, marketing, training and development of Morton’s beverage programs and acts as a national media spokesperson for the restaurant group’s wine and spirit program. Knowing that Morton’s guests know their wines, Field insists that all wine managers at all 78 Morton’s locations pass the Master Sommelier “Introductory Sommelier Course.” Assistant GM’s Strudthoff and Thurman have completed this in-depth Master Sommelier course of study covering wines and wine regions around the world, spirits, beer and cigars. In 2007, the Guild of Sommeliers awarded Fields the “Distinguished Service Award,” one of only eight awards given out in the world. Did we mention he conceptualized and implemented the World’s Largest Wine Bottle for the Guinness Book of World Records in 2005? That’s no trivial pursuit! Morton’s in Buckhead: Peachtree Lenox Building at 3379 Peachtree Road, NE; 404-816-6535. Morton’s Downtown: SunTrust Plaza Building, 303 Peachtree Center Avenue; 404-577-4366.

‘CUE & A: WHERE CAN YOU FEAST ON GRASS-FED BEEF AND BERKSHIRE PORK BARBEQUE? AT SOUTH CITY KITCHEN’S SUNDAY NIGHT BBQ!
The mantra behind the meat at South City Kitchen Sunday Barbeque Nights is “from Georgia farms to Georgia’s tables.” Chew ‘cue smoked with pride from Berkshire pork and grass-fed beef worth boasting about, raised the natural way right here in north Georgia on small, family-owned and operated Riverview Farms. Savor slow-smoked beef brisket, molasses and spice-crusted pork shoulder and country-style ribs all served with Carolina-style mustard sauce, vinegar sauce and sweet red sauce. Barbecue and sides are served family style. $19.95 for adults, $9.95 for children 12 and under.

South City Kitchen Midtown: 1144 Crescent Avenue; 404-873-7358. South City Kitchen Vinings: 1675 Cumberland Parkway; 770-435-0700. http://www.fifthgroup.com/

VAJRA STRATIGOS TO POUR HIS FAVORITE PICKS AT THE OSCARS OF WINE, BENEFITING THE HIGH MUSEUM OF ART
Pour one for the paparazzi! Wines will star at the 9th Annual Oscars of Wine, benefiting the High Museum of Art, from 4 – 7 p.m. at TROIS on Sunday, February 24, 2008. Before the five categories of winning wines make it to the “envelope please” phase, they will have been selected for the event by an elite group of wine connoisseurs, judged for “Judges’ Choice” by a team of celebrity judges, and voted on for the “People’s Choice” Oscar by event patrons. Twisting the cork even further, it turns out that the wine selectors -- Fifth Group Restaurants®’ Beverage Director Vajra Stratigos, The Wine Store’s Chris Hinton, Atlanta’s Wine Maverick Rick Stack and Quality Wine and Spirits’ Michael McNeill -- are vying against each other with the hopes that their selections will be voted tops by the participants and celebrity judges!

Tickets for the Oscars of Wine are $45 per person in advance or $50 at the door. Call 404-815-3337 to make reservations.

Oscar voter or not, you can pick up beverage insights and how-to videos from last year’s expert panel winner, Vajra Stratigos, on his new blog. Become more familiar with Vajra’s selections at Fifth Group Restaurants around Atlanta: South City Kitchen® Midtown, South City Kitchen Vinings, Food Studio®, La Tavola Trattoria, Ecco, and Bold American® Catering. For more information, call 678-302-3251 or visit http://www.fifthgroup.com/.

AND WHILE WINNING WINES ARE ON OUR MINDS. . .MEET & GREET ACCLAIMED WINE IMPORTER ERIC SOLOMON AT ECCO FEBRUARY 25
Ecco invites you to come meet internationally acclaimed wine importer Eric Solomon of European Cellars at an exclusive reception from 6 – 8 p.m. on Monday, February 25. Sample Eric’s newest releases, rub elbows with industry insiders and enjoy complimentary hors d’oeuvres. Wines available at the reception include:

Artadi, “Orobio,” Rioja, Spain 2004
Castano, “Hecula,” Yecla, Spain 2004
Mi Nina, Tempranillio, Spain 2004
Mustaguillio, “Mestizaje,” Spain 2004
Pago Alto Landon, Manchuela, Spain 2004
Paisajes, “Paisajes IX,” Rioja, Spain 2004
Rafael Palacios, “Louro do Bolo,” Valdeorras, Spain 2005
Tikalo, “Kios,” La Mancha, Spain 2003
Vidanueva, Rueda Blanco, Rueda, Spain 2006
Mas Que Vinos, “Ercavio Blanco,” Spain 2005

Tickets for the VIP reception are $20 and can be applied toward dinner at Ecco that evening. For reservations, call Ecco at 404-347-9555. 40 7th Street in Midtown.

Decant more knowledge about Eric Solomon Selections at http://www.europeancellars.com/.

WITH NEW GM AND LUX VIEWS ON THE NORTHSIDE, IT HAS TO BE AQUA BLUE
For the past six years Aqua Blue Restaurant & Bar has drawn diners looking for affordable luxury and global cuisine to its Roswell location. Ready for a new face and look, owners John C. Metz Jr., Tom DiGiorgio, Richard E. Rivera and Hank Clark brought General Manager Brian Longacre to the Aqua Blue scene, which, by the way, has been redesigned and decorated. Steeped in the business of hospitality, Longacre knows well the nuances of generosity and attentiveness that turn a neighborhood restaurant into an extension of the home. Longacre comes to Aqua Blue with managing experience at Ray’s in the City in Atlanta, Bugaboo Creek Steakhouse, and several country clubs including Olde Towne Athletic Club, The Georgian Club and Brookstone Golf & Country Club here in Georgia.

On the décor side, take a look at the new patio, the dining room’s new deep blue hues and a private event room that’s ideal for up 30 guests, corporate events and the restaurant’s upcoming winemaker dinners. Open for dinner nightly; live entertainment on Thursdays and Fridays. 1564 Holcomb Bridge Road in Roswell; 770-643-8886.

GET AN INSIDE LOOK AT TRILOGY KARAOKE NIGHTS
If you’re wondering what Trilogy’s Wednesday Karaoke nights are like, check out this video for an inside look at all the fun. Even if you didn’t quite make the cut for “American Idol” or “Singing Bee” (perhaps “America’s Funniest Home Videos” is more your style), you can belt it out with the best of them at Trilogy every Wednesday night beginning at 8:30 p.m. for karaoke. There’s no cover charge, and the fun is open to anyone and everyone. Make a night of it by coming earlier for dinner or for libations to loosen up those pipes and douse any vestiges of stage fright! You’ll find Trilogy in East Cobb at 4930 Davidson Road; 770-971-4770.

SECOND HELPING: TSP SPICES BANISHES BLAND BLOGS!
We’ve all clicked on them, blogs that sound so enticing. . .yet turn out to be nothing but yada, yada, yada. Not this thyme, blog.tspspices.com posts more than a dash of spice history and facts, uses, recipes and more from the “cardaMoms.” We’re sure The Seasoned Palate of the “cardaMoms” can one-teaspoon-up spice girls any day!

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!

Mardi Gras Mania in Atlanta

LOOKING FOR LAGNIAPPE IN ALL THE WRONG PLACES? TRILOGY’S MARDI GRAS PARTY IS THE PLACE FOR YOUR “CREWE” ON FEBRUARY 5!
Outside Trilogy, the streets of East Cobb are quiet; inside Trilogy, it’s Carnival time! On Tuesday, February 5, Mardi Gras beads and balloons will be flying, the ZydeFunk band will play and dance through the crowds New Orleans style . . . and the food and drinks will have those saints marching in and chowing down before they boogie down! Coax your “crewe” out to celebrate by tossing out these Bourbon Street tempters: drink specials such as Hurricanes and Abita Purple Haze, and an a la carte menu of New Orleans favorites – gumbo, crawfish étouffée, muffalettas and more. Party starts at 7 p.m. and the band plays at 8 p.m. $20 cover charge. 4930 Davidson Road; 770-971-4770. http://www.trilogydining.net/

WE’RE SWEET ON YOUNG CHEF’S ACADEMY FOR VALENTINE’S TREATS!
We love anything having to do with the kitchen, whether it’s creating or consuming! If your young chef also wears his or her heart on their apron-sleeve, share the love by signing them up now for Young Chef’s Academy’s Valentine’s Treats workshops! Two time options are available to ease your scheduling dilemmas: Wednesday, February 6 from 1:30 – 4 p.m. and Saturday, February 9 from 4 – 6 p.m. Advance reservations are required, so BOOK EARLY to reserve seats! To hold your spot, e-mail youngchefs@bellsouth.net or phone 404-255-9263. Young Chef’s Academy is located in the Sandy Spring’s CityWalk Shopping Center at 227 Sandy Springs Place, Suite 368. http://www.youngchefsacademy.com/

WOLF MOUNTAIN WINERY POURS ON A LOVE OF FINE WINING AND DINING FEBRUARY 9
On the romantic dinner scale, a whisk to North Georgia’s Wolf Mountain Winery trumps a whisk in the hand. Why risk it? Our bet’s on the Wolf Mountain Valentine’s Day Wine Dinner on Saturday, February 9. $80 per person includes dinner and wine pairings. The evening begins at 7 p.m. with a cellar reception featuring mini-smoked duck ravioli with ginger hoisin dipping sauce and paired with 2006 Chanteloup before moving on to a menu of:

· 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 of artisan cheeses; 2005 Instinct
· Flourless chocolate cake with raspberry sauce garnished with fresh berries, served with gourmet Brazilian coffee roasted for Wolf Mountain Winery; 2005 Claret or 2006 Seyval Demi-Sec

Wolf Mountain Vineyards & Winery is located at 180 Wolf Mountain Trail, in historic Dahlonega, Georgia; 706-867-9862. http://www.wolfmountainvineyards.com/

FELLOWSHIP OF THE FORK: ECCO’S FEBRUARY 10 SUNDAY SHARE IS A SUNDAY BEST BET!
In a month of Sundays, one Sunday dinner always stands out: the monthly “Sunday Share” communal table dining event at Ecco. Each month brings a new theme to the family-style dining table at Fifth Group Restaurants’ Mediterranean-inspired eatery Ecco, where a limited number of guests can enjoy getting to know each other, fork and spoon in hand. This month’s Sunday Share will take place at 6:30 p.m. on February 10. Crowned “All Hail the King,” the très special dinner is inspired by the legendary master of French cooking, Georges Auguste Escoffier. $25 per person covers the neighborly meal. Drink specials are available but are not included in the meal price. Sunday Share reservations are required and may be made by calling 404-347-9555.

The Sunday Share gatherings are available in addition to the restaurant’s regular menu. Ecco serves dinner starting at 5:30 p.m. nightly; the patio and bar open daily at 4 p.m. 40 7th Street at the corner of Cypress Street in Midtown; 404-347-9555. http://www.fifthgroup.com/

THE GLOBE – IT’S A WHOLE NEW WORLD
The GLOBE put a new spin on Midtown dining when it opened in 2005, and it continues to turn heads with its new deep red and burnt orange walls, olive and sage furniture and subtle creature comforts. Beneath the 31-foot zinc bar sits a new foot bar to put an end to dangling feet. Sofas cluster, as do guests, in the expanded lounge area. Terrace-view tables, sectioned off by a sheer curtain, are now a dining room option. A 120-foot window wall drenches diners in vitamin D, err, sunshine, while at night, a starry constellation of Jasper Morrison Glo-Balls sends the GLOBE into a soothing, softly-lit galaxy. The library lounge invites quiet gatherings and meetings amid its filled bookshelves and cozy chairs. Take your coffee or beer outside to view the hustle and bustle of Midtown from a perch on the outdoor terrace.

At this urban modern café, food does more than decorate plates. Lunch and dinner guests can look forward to dining on Chef Joshua Laban Perkins’ Mediterranean-style small and large plates, sophisticated sweets and a late-night lounge menu that’s truly inspired, not tired. Critics are still turning in rave reviews and accolades. And, Pimms Cocktails, organic margaritas, drink specials and a European wine list have glasses swirling in approval.

Open Monday through Saturday at 75 Fifth Street, NW in Technology Square; 404-541-1487. Valet parking is available on Fifth Street in front of the restaurant, and validated parking is available behind the restaurant in the Centergy visitor parking deck. Wireless internet access is provided inside and out. http://www.globeatlanta.com/

WHEN ONLY BACON WILL DO, BACON SALT BRINGS HOME THE BACON FLAVOR WITHOUT THE FRYING!
Last year, Justin and Dave were both bringing home the bacon from their jobs at a small technology company when their mutual cravings for the flavor of bacon turned them into “bacontrepreneurs.” Their brainchild, Bacon Salt™, has our squeal of approval as a fast, easy way to perk up everything from party mix to steak and mashed potatoes with the mouthwatering taste of bacon (and none of the prep mess). A sprinkle of Original, Hickory or Peppered Bacon Salt can make a tomato slice taste like a BLT. Unleash the power of bacon into plain ranch dressing and make a bacon-loving vegetarian go hog-wild. Celebrate National Snack Food Month with a sprinkle here and there . . . but first you’ll need to buy some. http://www.baconsalt.com/

RAISE A TOAST TO ALLI-ROYCE-SOBLE AT LA TAVOLA – VOTED BEST BARKEEP ON ROWDYFOOD.COM
When the blog is named “rowdyfood.com,” you know they’re up on their fave barkeeps! Mix up a tall order of service, knowledge and friendliness, garnish it with a smile and you have “Best Barkeep in Atlanta,” Alli Royce-Soble at La Tavola Trattoria. Alli is an essential ingredient at Virginia Highland’s neighborly Italian gathering spot -- come find out why!

Fifth Group Restaurants’ La Tavola Trattoria is located at 992 Virginia Ave., NE; 404-873-5430. http://www.fifthgroup.com/

SECOND HELPING: VAJRA STRAIGHT UP BLOG DISTILLS THE ESSENCE OF FIFTH GROUP RESTAURANTS’ RISING STAR SOMMELIER
When Fifth Group Restaurants’ Beverage Director Vajra Stratigos opens up, the wisdom of five generations of Greek and Italian restaurateurs pours out! An enthusiasm for “all things liquid” has propelled Vajra into achieving many professional milestones: certifications from the International Wine Guild, Court of Master Sommeliers, The Wine and Spirits Education Trust and The Society of Wine Educators, and being distinguished as a “Rising Star Sommelier” by Starchefs.com, an award-winning online magazine for culinary insiders. Vajra’s blog flows with wine insights, recommendations, where-to-buy info, Vajra YouTube links, Atlanta wine events and star chefs. Decant a red or white, sit down at the keyboard and enjoy! http://www.vajrastraightup.blogspot.com/.