Hmmm...Chocolate!

The official countdown is on!! One week to go. That’s right, only seven days left before the one night a year I give myself permission to overindulge in the most decadent event that Atlanta has to offer… and tell myself “it’s for a good cause.” Chocolate! 2008, a fundraiser for Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, is Thursday, June 19, from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. I have been spending a little extra time on the treadmill lately, since I know this event will send me home a few lbs heavier than when I arrived (and not just because of the silent auction winnings I’ll be carrying). Here is a pic of me at a previous Chocolate! event with Wynn, who I affectionately refer to as “Gerber Daisy Guy” (I’m sure it’s obvious why).

The evening, which will be sponsored by glaceau smartwater®, will include a chocolate martini bar, a chocolate lager and a chocolate cappuccino tasting, full dinner buffet, silent auction and, of course, enchanting creations from 20 of Atlanta’s best pastry chefs. Participants include Fifth Group Restaurants®, Home, Morton’s The Steakhouse, Rathbun’s, Villa Christina, the evening’s gracious host, and more.

Here is a pic from a party I recently attended for the host committee, co-chaired by Wes Moss, from The Apprentice, and his cohort, Charles Hodges, at Morton’s The Steakhouse in Buckhead. (Gerber Daisy Guy and me, again!) He promised me a dance at the event. Wynn, I’m holding you to that!!!

Come out and join us. Tickets are only $65 in advance and $75 at the door. Click here to purchase tickets online.

For more information, contact CFF at 404-325-6973, or visit their website.

Villa Christina is located at 4000 Summit Boulevard; 678-686-4272.

Highland Brewery Beer Dinner at Brick Store Pub

Last night I got to taste some of the finest ales the Southeast has to offer from Highland Brewing Company paired with a special menu created by Chef Eric Ottensmeyer at the Brick Store Pub in Decatur. The restaurant hosted a beer dinner upstairs in The Belgian Bar and it was a blast. The event began with a glass of Highland Kashmir IPA (which turned out to be one of my favorite selections) and Chef Eric’s yummy hors d’oeuvres: hamachi wontons with red grapefruit ponzu; Georgia shrimp tostada with local basil pesto; and carrot hummus on pita toast. Highland Brewing Co. Owner Oscar Wong and Brick Store Pub Partner Mike Gallagher were on hand to educate guests and answer questions throughout the evening. My favorite dish was a crispy skin duck breast served atop a Georgia blueberry hotcake with maple syrup duck demi-glace and edible local flowers (pictured above). The duck was prepared perfectly and paired with Highland Black Mocha Stout. I also really enjoyed the trio of baby beets and Rogue Creamery’s Smokey Blue Cheese that was served alongside a walnut crusted rabbit loin for the second course (pictured below with Highland Oatmeal Porter). All in all, I was really impressed with the menu that Chef Eric put together to accompany the Highland brews, especially all of the great locally-sourced items he used. He's informed us that he'll be doing a Chimay beer dinner next month - can't wait!

Flicks on Fifth Kicks Off With New Menu At The Globe

Summer is finally here! It isn't the hot, humid weather telling me so; it is the start of Atlanta's many outdoor film festivals that take place every summer telling me it is time to slip on my flip flops, make a reservation and catch a flick.

The annual Flicks on Fifth film series kicks off tonight on 5th Street between Spring Street and Techwood Drive with the showing of I Am Legend. Every Wednesday night through July 23, a film will be shown outdoors at 9 p.m. Rain or shine. The best part? Admission is FREE so be sure to mark your calendar.

JUNE 11 I am Legend

JUNE 18 Horton Hears A Who

JUNE 25 The Bourne Ultimatum

JULY 9 Hairspray

JULY 16 Superbad

JULY 23 21

To help kick off the film fun, the GLOBE is rolling out a new summer menu. The new menu features a variety of light, Mediterranean dishes including a fresh gazpacho with Granny Smith apple and cucumber sorbet, Spanish seaweed salad with market oysters and an organic cider mignonette, and soft shell crab with goat’s milk yogurt, crispy capers and dried apricots.

Reservations are required to watch the film from the GLOBE’s patio, and there is a $25 food and beverage minimum per person for outdoor seating. Call 404-541-1487 to make reservations.

"Eat Like You Work Here" and Take 25% Off Your Dinner at Ecco and South City Kitchen Vinings

Working in the restaurant industry is no piece of cake. You work late nights, handle hot plates and have to please the customer at all times. However, there is a bonus to this pressured position: the employee discount. Fifth Group Restaurants® is giving their customers the chance take part in this perk on Tuesday, June 10. They are holding their "Eat Like You Work Here" promotion at Ecco and South City Kitchen Vinings where they will extend a 25 percent discount off dinner (excluding tip) to all patrons. So make your reservations for this special evening with an employee discount soon, and Fifth Group promises not to make you wait on tables or wash a single dish. Ecco is located at 40 7th Street at Cypress in Midtown, 404-347-9555. South City Kitchen Vinings is located at 1675 Cumberland Parkway, 770-435-0700.

Chowing Down at Ecco

It's looks like I'm not the only one who LOVES Ecco. Read here about Chloe Morris' (from Chow Down Atlanta) recent visit. She and her sister tried a little bit of everything from the menu so you get a really good idea of what Ecco serves. The chili-braised pork with garlic and pappardelle looks and sounds delish. I'll take Chloe's suggestion and try it next time I'm there!

Nibbles, Bites and Scoops

Bakerella got a serious craving for chocolate and made this yummy peanut butter cup cake. She made a few signature adjustments to the original recipe found here. I can't wait to try this out in my own kitchen and I'll be sure to have a huge glass of milk on hand!
Rowdy made a visit to Eno this week and met the new kitchen team of Executive Chef Eli Kirshstein and Sous Chef Jeff Sigler. Find more about it here.

Besha Rodell reports on Omnivore Atlanta that Grant Park location of Six Feet Under will be moving across the street to the Jane lofts on 437 Memorial Drive. And Besha, I'm with you about Top Chef.

DirtySouthWine reviews winethatloves.com, a new line of wines that are paired for certain dishes such as roasted chicken and pasta with tomato sauce. Read his assesment of the liquid line up here.

Tami at Running with Tweezers will be in attendance at the upcoming Fresh Flavors dinner at Ecco on June 24. Be sure to mark the date on your calendar because it is also her birthday! Read more of what's happening here.

Wolf Mountain Pays A Tribute to Tuscany at Sunday Brunch During June

When I log in, I gaze longingly at my profile photo of the hubby and I on Lake Cuomo in Italy last spring. Because of the surging gas prices and airline fees, that trip would be lot harder to manage this year. Still, I long for Italy’s calm countryside, bustling cities, stylish people and, of course, its tasty provisions.

No worries, Wolf Mountain Vineyards and Winery has come up with a reasonable alternative: take a short Sunday drive north of Atlanta to Dahlonega for the winery's Tribute to Tuscany Sunday brunch. No passports, currency conversions, baggage or fuel surcharges, yet good-to-go with plenty of Tuscan flavors such as linguine and clam sauce, chicken Marsala, Mediterranean salad, homemade tapenade, and tiramisu trifle. Why roam to Rome to dip your bread? Olive oil tastings are part of the Wolf Mountain brunch spread. If you were in Italy, you'd have a glass of wine or two with your meal as you looked out over the Tuscan hills, and well, you can't get much closer to the vine or Georgia mountains for handmade, European-style wines than at Wolf Mountain! $30 per person, excluding wine, tax and gratuity. Call 706-867-9862 to reserve your place at the 12:30 p.m. or 2:30 p.m. seating on Sunday, June 8, 22 or 29. Ciao, baby!

Wolf Mountain Vineyards and Winery: 180 Wolf Mountain Trail in Dahlonega.

Wine Down Wednesdays: a New Monthly Event at Morton's The Steakhouse in Buckhead

Last night, Meryl and I went to Morton's The Steakhouse in Buckhead for the restaurant's first Wine Down Wednesday event. The first Wednesday of each month, Morton’s in Buckhead becomes the place to mark the midweek with themed wine tastings. From 5:30 to 7 p.m., $12 (inclusive of tax and gratuity) buys guests a generous sampling of three to four wines plus complimentary appetizers. This month's tasting focused on "Pioneers of California" – Beringer Stanley Ranch Chardonnay, Robert Mondavi Napa Cabernet Sauvignon and Terra D’Oro Deaver Ranch Zinfandel. I favored the Mondavi Cabernet, while Meryl enjoyed the Beringer Chardonnay the best. Tanya Lawson, a representative from United Distributors, was on hand to educate us about the wines , and the lovely Maureen, our favorite bartender, brought around hors d'oeuvres such as steak sandwiches and scallops for guests to enjoy with their wine.

These tastings are the perfect opportunity to come get a feel for the upscale restaurant’s top-notch food, wine and exceptional service. Next month's tasting features an evening of "Pinot Envy" on July 2.

Morton’s The Steakhouse Buckhead is located in the Peachtree Lenox Building at 3379 Peachtree Road, NE; 404-816-6535.

Saturday Green Market Sprouts Up With This Year's Bounty at Piedmont Park--Gerry Klaskala of Aria Leads Chef's Demo June 7

It's a beautiful time of the year and the last thing you want is to be stuck inside a crowded grocery store checking off your weekly list. This Saturday, skip the store and head to the market, The Green Market that is, at Atlanta's beautiful Piedmont Park.

Rise and shine early Saturday morning and make your way to Piedmont Park’s 12th Street entrance for the 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. market. Sip your coffee, browse the stalls, chat with area farmers and producers and fill your shopping bags with their field-fresh pickings, organic meats, cheeses, pastas and other goodies. Aria Owner/Chef Gerry Klaskala will lead a cooking demo and hand out samples this Saturday at noon at the Chef’s Warehouse mobile kitchen. Klaskala is the man with plans and recipes turning the bounty in your bags into won’t-last-long dishes.
Aria is located at 490 E. Paces Ferry Road in Buckhead; 404-233-7673.

Dinner alfresco at Marlow's Midtown

I had such a yummy time at Marlow's last night. My roommate and I took our friend from Savannah there for dinner while she was visiting for a job interview (keeping my fingers crossed for you, Allison!). We chose the Midtown location because her interview was around there and she needed to get familiar with the area before driving around in Atlanta traffic. I've been to this one before but never for a meal. First things first, I love the ease of parking at this place - the deck is huge and completely free! We lucked out because there was a table available outside which made people watching very easy. Lots of couples, dog walkers, and strollers passed while we ordered.

The hummus appetizer is my favorite, so we started out with that. I was lame and only got a Diet Coke but Allison had the pomegranate martini and Sara (my roommate) got Blue Moon's Honey Moon Summer Ale.

Then comes the good part - dinner. Allison and I both got the lamb tenderloin wrap and Sara had the grilled salmon. On the ride home we still wanted something sweet so we dropped by the recently opened Yogurberry in the Terminus Building. You order one of the two flavors available (last night was plain and green apple) then add your favorite toppings. Perfect way to end a meal if you ask me.

Time to Get Your Steak On

It is no wonder Father's Day is celebrated in June; June happens to be National Steakhouse Month and everyone knows most dads love steak! These days there are so many steakhouses to choose from, how can we ever know which one to pick?? My advice is to go with a classic.

In Atlanta, there are two top-notch havens for beef-lovers and both have been on the dining scene for years: Morton's The Steakhouse and Fogo de Chão.

Morton's The Steakhouse is known around the globe for its legendary service, upscale elegance and mouthwatering, prime-aged steaks. Awards for food, wine and service are plentiful. Atlanta is fortunate to play home to two of Morton's 79 worldwide locations in Buckhead and Downtown. Right now, Morton's is offering an incredible steak and seafood special menu. The surf and turf menu includes two single-cut filets; a choice of two seafood options (Morton’s jumbo lump crab cake, shrimp Alexander or broiled sea scallops); a choice of one of Morton's signature potatoes and a side vegetable; a choice of two salads (Caesar or Morton’s salad); and lastly, a choice of two desserts (Morton’s legendary hot chocolate cake or key lime pie).

Fogo de Chão, a Brazilian churrascaria, gives steak lovers the opportunity to fork into as much meat as they desire from the 15 fire-roasted cuts of meat carved tableside by Brazilian gauchos. The prix fixe menu simplifies matters, and the humongous salad bar offers plenty of options for those who favor the steak lover, but not steak. The Atlanta restaurant was recently renovated with an updated wine cellar and new art work.

Both locations offer the perfect excuse to celebrate National Steakhouse Month every month!

W Hotel Grand Opening Party

Last night, I was one of the lucky folks in Atlanta that was invited to attend the W Hotel Grand Opening party in Midtown. And, boy, was it a party! One could only imagine with a dress code specified as "chic cocktail" on the invitation - this would certainly be a very posh event. Three or four different levels of bars, lounges and entertainment. Girls dancing, fancy drinks being passed around, tons of food. Rumor has it that some of the celebs on the A-list included George Clooney, Paula Abdul, Cindy Crawford. I didn't see any of them, but I was able to see C-Lo make his grand entrance! Very cool place - I highly recommend visting if you're one of those that are on top of the social scene - it's certainly the new place to see and be seen.

Natural Bacon Salt is a Real Ham at Playing Up Flavor for Vegetarian, Gluten-Free, Low-Sodium and Kosher Diets

And we thought things couldn't get any better then the zero calorie, zero fat, vegetarian and kosher seasoning that makes everything taste like delicious bacon. Well, the guys behind Bacon Salt have done it again. Justin Esch and Dave Lefkow have just rolled out a new product called Natural Bacon Salt – a premium version of the original Bacon Salt that was developed based on direct feedback from customers.

Short ingredient list, BIG flavor! J&D's Natural Bacon Salt is a pig-free, bacon-y wonder with so much to offer that bacon lovers will go hog wild sprinkling it on veggies, popcorn, eggs and you-name- it, no matter what their dietary preferences. Customer feedback prodded "bacontrepreneurs" Justin Esch and Dave Lefkow to develop this premium version of the original Bacon Salt. One oink at their website squeals that Natural Bacon Salt's brief, all-natural ingredient list yields a seasoning that is 100 percent bacon flavor and zero percent calories, fat, gluten, sodium or meat. Even vegetarians and those keeping a kosher kitchen can sprinkle with abandon!

Seattle-based J&D's Bacon Salt has become a godsend for the more than three million Americans dealing with celiac disease. Additionally, thanks to Operation Bacon Salt, our service men and women overseas in the Middle East can perk up their meals with the All-American flavor of bacon, even in areas where the culture prohibits pork products. Purchase Natural Bacon Salt as well as Original, Peppered and Hickory Bacon Salt at more than 2,000 retailers nationwide or at www.baconsalt.com .

Cool Loans From Whole Foods Market

Whole Foods Market aims to keep good things growing in Georgia at Harris Family Heritage Beef, Sweetwater Growers and Via Elisa Fresh Pasta. The company has a Local Producer Loan Program and, in Georgia, these three local producers will receive more than $500,000 in low-interest loans to achieve their goals. These loans pack a lot of bang in each buck, and each brings a bounty of sought-after foods back to Whole Foods Market shelves -- and ultimately to our plates.

Harris Family Heritage Beef at White Oak Pastures, Georgia’s leading grass-fed beef producer, was able to use the loan to complete a long-awaited on-farm facility designed to process beef according to rigorous humane animal treatment standards and to minimize environmental impact. Besides enabling White Oak Pastures to expand beef production and distribution of its 2008 Flavors of Georgia Grand Prize-winning products, the on-farm plant will nix farm-to-processing cattle stress and do away with the need for fuel-guzzling 18-wheelers to transport cattle. Sweetwater Growers, Inc. is using its loan to add two new greenhouses, thus increasing the farm’s harvest of high quality, fresh micro greens, basil and other herbs. Via Elisa Fresh Pasta, a genuine fresh pasta shop in Atlanta, has purchased a pasta cutter with its loan. The new cutter will enable more efficient pasta cutting, which translates to more plentiful pasta for you and me. The ingredients for the authentic, homemade pasta remain the same: 100% organic flours, 100% organic semolina, eggs from free-range hens and luxurious cheeses imported directly from Italy. Find products from these conscientious producers and others at area Whole Foods Markets and Harry’s Farmers Markets.

For more inspiring stories about the people and places behind our food sources, visit Whole Foods Market’s Farm to Market Blog.

Birthday's at Work Are a Piece of Cake

Just a little post saying "thank you" to everyone at work for my wonderful birthday celebration. As most of you know I keep everything so you better believe that the birthday card will be around for years to come! Now on to the food - Hollie ordered a cake from Piece of Cake in Buckhead. I admit that I am a picky eater especially when it comes to birthday cake so she had to customize it. We had the chocolate layer cake with cream cheese icing and no pecan topping - yum! Every year my mom used to make me a chocolate layered cake with vanilla icing and this brought me back to those days. Piece of Cake beats out her Betty Crocker cake from the box (sorry Mom!). Thanks again everyone and especially Hollie for finding the best cake!

Stake Your Claim to Fame By Entering the First-Ever Morton's The Steakhouse Guest Prime Recipe Contest

Calling all cooks! Morton's The Steakhouse will host a Guest Prime Recipe Contest giving any amateur chef or guest of Morton's a shot at creating "The Best Recipe Anywhere." Those are some pretty beefy bragging rights! Not only will the winner have his or her recipe included in the restaurant's upcoming cookbook (to be published by Random House in 2009), they will also win a trip for two to Chicago where they will dine with Morton's The Steak House Co-founder Klaus Fritsch at the original Morton's Steakhouse. The new cookbook, to be published by Random House in 2009, will be a sizzling sequel to the restaurant’s original treasure trove of legendary recipes and grilling secrets, Morton’s Steak Bible.

Recipes need to be submitted by June 2 so get a move on. For more contest rules click here. Klaus Fritsch himself will head up the panel of experts in reviewing recipes submitted for beef, chicken or seafood entrees; appetizers; salads; sauces; marinades and dressings; soups; side dishes; desserts ;and cocktails.

This year, Morton’s 79 steakhouses and 5,000 employees around the globe are celebrating the restaurant’s 30th anniversary. Join the celebration at both Atlanta Morton’s The Steakhouse locations. 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.

White Oak Pastures' Beef Wins 2008 Flavor of Georgia Contest

You can chew the fat on what makes flavorful beef until the cows come home, but in the end, it's all about what's inside that counts. In the case of Harris Family Heritage Beef, raised by Georgian Will Harris of White Oak Pastures, the prize-winning flavor comes from a herd that chomps on grass. Unadulterated green grass. No grains, hormones or feed I can't pronounce or spell. The 2008 Flavor of Georgia Grand Prize Winner Will Harris will be at Harry's Farmers Market in Alpharetta this Saturday May 24 from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. giving shoppers a taste of the award winning beef. If you can't make it Saturday stop by Sunday from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. at the Whole Foods Market on Ponce. Be sure to pick up some beef to take home for the Memorial Day grilling on Monday.

Harry's Farmers Market in Alpharetta is located at 1180 Upper Hembree Road; 770-664-6300. Whole Foods Market located at 650 Ponce de Leon Avenue, NE; 404-853-1681.

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

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

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

Chipotle -- 12 Atlanta-area locations.

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

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

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

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

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

It's Grilling Season...Grab Some Grate Chef and Pass the Bacon Salt!

The season known as “fire up the grill for the summer” starts sometime between Mother’s Day and Father’s Day. There are no greeting cards to celebrate the season; however, Bacon Salt™ and Grate Chef® have the seasonings and supplies you’ll need to set the thrill of the grill off to a “grate” start.

Get Ready With Grate Chef
First, be sure your grill is prepared to do its job by cleaning the grate with non-flammable, Grill Wipes® disposable towelettes (MSRP $2.99/package of 6) that are loaded with restaurant-grade grilling oil that simultaneously cleans and oils your grate. Use the patented Chrome Steaming Grill Brush® (MSRP $19.99) to give your grill grates a good-as-new look with the power of lemon juice. Lemon acid and steam remove residue and recondition the grate – and the brush lasts through four seasons! Polish up the outside of your “baby” in one easy step with Stainless Steel Wipes® (MSRP $2.99/package of 6). Now you’re ready to light the grill! The Fire Starter® (MSRP $2.99/package of 6), an environmentally safe, non-toxic charcoal-lighting option uses packets that heat up to an odorless, tasteless 1,500 degrees in approximately 10 minutes. Purchase Grate Chef products nationwide in grocery and hardware stores, and specialty stores such as Barbeques Galore, Inc., Bed, Bath & Beyond and Linens ‘n Things. For more information or to order products, call 877-900-8415.

Pig Out in Good Health!
Everything tastes better with J & D’s Bacon Salt! It’s not an oxymoron to include the words “health” and “bacon” in the same sentence when we’re talking about J & D’s Bacon Salt. The zero-calorie, zero-fat, vegetarian and kosher seasoning adds the delectable taste of bacon to whatever you’re grilling or putting on the side. Justin Esch and Dave Lefkow (the J&D) have packaged their perky peak of the pig seasonings in four flavors – Original, Hickory, Peppered and Natural – that will put new oink in your salads, sides, meats, sandwiches…and even popcorn. Bacon Salt is taking the nation by storm, having launched successfully in more than 2,000 retail and grocery stores and by receiving a hog’s share of media coverage. Justin and Dave have even created a charitable giving initiative called Operation Bacon Salt, which provides free Bacon Salt to troops serving in countries where bacon and other pork products are not permitted due to cultural reasons.

YouTube Video Captures Growing Gains! Watch Dogwood Come to Life on Peachtree

From the day I was born, my entire life was captured on film. Whether it was my dad with the video camera documenting my every step or my mom with the camera contstantly snapping those awkard candid shots; my parents felt the need track it all. See? Here I am on the morning of my third birthday, looking a little less then thrilled to have my picture taken.

Dogwood owners Scott Black and Shane Touhy are taking a similar parental approach as they watch, and film, their restaurant come to life, literally from the ground floor up. By ground floor, we are referring to the street level of the Reynolds condominium building at 565 Peachtree Street in downtown Atlanta. As you view these home movies, you’ll feel the parental pride blooming along with the restaurant. Dogwood, a sophisticated setting for southeastern regional cooking, will open in June 2008. For more information, call 404-835-1410.

Hello Cute Shoes!

Those shoe-crazed girls have planned another Hello Stiletto Shoe Party - this time at South City Kitchen Vinings. Get on the phone and book that pedicure now because the event is tonight! Show off your strappiest sandals or newest open-toed wedges from 6 – 8 p.m. on Wednesday, May 21 at South City Kitchen Vinings . Shoe designer Ann Roth will be on hand, err, foot, to judge the evening’s “Best Shoe” competition. Hands will not be neglected either…they’re perfect for holding a wine or martini glass! 1675 Cumberland Parkway; 770-435-0700.

Vajra Stratigos Pairs Wines With BBQ Meals

I don't know about you but I've been planning my Memorial Day weekend since March. This is my favorite time of the year (and not just because my birthday is around the corner). I love the warm weather, summer dresses, outdoor dinner parties and barbeque is a must. Which brings me to the most recent segment of Vajra Straight Up where Vajra Stratigos, Beverage Director of Fifth Group Restaurants, gives suggestions on which wines to serve at your next BBQ get-together.



First things first - the wines need to be "B.B.Q." - Big, Bold and Quaffable. Second, choose your wine's color (red or white) and Vajra will tell you which one goes best with the meal. Now you're all set for a weekend of wine and barbeque.

Locally Produced Sparkling Wine and A Seafood Festival

Yesterday, I was able to visit Wolf Mountain Vineyards to check out their new sparkling wine. This is the first local sparkling wine produced in the traditional methode champenoise. They don't have a final product yet (still going through dosage trials), but they have finalized the bottle design and capping. It is beautiful, and I can't wait to do a taste test!

Do these photos make you want to visit Wolf Mountain for yourself? This is the weekend! This Sunday, May 18 (and next Sunday, May 25) Wolf Mountain Vineyards is hosting a White Wine and Seafood Festival. For $30 per person (wines available separately by the glass or bottle) you can enjoy a sampling of fresh seafood dishes from the Wolf Mountain kitchen. Paired with their uniquely blended white wines (Plenitude won the 2007 silver medal at the San Fransisco Chronicle wine competition) this festival will make for a delicious weekend!

Cheers.

Tasting the Great Wines of Argentina

Yesterday, I was fortunate enough to attend an exclusive wine tasting event at Fogo de Chao that featured 14 top Argentinean boutique wineries from six different regions. The restaurant, along with QW Wine Experts, is working with the government of Argentina to bring in wines that are not yet available in the United States and hosted this tasting for 20 local wine distributors who were able to enjoy the magnificent display of wines and Fogo’s lovely food spread throughout the day.

Last year, Argentina became the sixth largest wine producer in the world. These 14 wineries represent the new wave of the wine industry in Argentina and, aside from a few exceptions, have never exported to the U.S. Naturally, the response from everyone in attendance was highly enthusiastic! One of my favorites from the tasting was Bodegas San Huberto's “Nina” Cabernet Malbec blend (2004) from La Rioja – full bodied with hints of cherry, it would make a great match for Fogo’s grilled meats!

We also got to speak with Juliana Arive Oroz (pictured in the photo on the right) of Vulliez-Sermet, whose award-winning Malbec I enjoyed very much as well. This is the only winery from Argentina's East Coast wine region, Entre Rios, so I was very excited to try their offerings!

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.

Taste of Brookhaven Launch Party Recap

Last night, I was able to stop by the Taste of Brookhaven launch party at Village Place at Brookhaven. The evening's event was to kick off ticket sales for the Taste of Brookhaven (Saturday, June 14), and it was a great event!

Held in an empty, soon-to-be-retail space in the new live, work, play development, the space was filled with local art work, a live jazz band and 100 or so of Brookhaven's residents. Tasty treats were provided by a coming soon restaurant - Terra Terroir, and Wolf Mountain Vineyards, a local winery, served their award winning wines - Plenitude (white) and Instinct (red). They also showed off a beautiful display bottle of their upcoming release - Georgia's first locally produced sparkling wine! Stay tuned for more details and a release date soon!!

In the meantime, consider checking out this year's Taste of Brookhaven event. One of the smaller Taste Of events in the city, it is always a fun time!

Tuesday Tastings at VITA

Last night I went to VITA's Tuesday Tastings. These weekly wine tastings take place in the bar area every week from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. It's a good thing I arrived on time, the place was packed! And for a good reason -- $15 per person includes a sampling of 5-6 wines and complimentary appetizers. Great wine, great food and great company -- I'll definitely go back soon! Not to mention, it's a great way to avoid the rush hour traffic!

Vote in Jezebel Magazine's "Election" For Atlanta's Top 100 Restaurants

I like to exercise my right to vote, so much so that I cannot wait for the election in November to do so. Thanks to Jezebel I don't have to. The magazine is taking votes for the top 100 restaurants in Atlanta. Visit the site to cast your votes in the multi-category ballot including your top five restaurants followed by your favorite 10. Then move on to a category buffet where you can vote in traditional "best" categories such as Italian, vegetarian, sushi, happy hour, takeout and breakfast.

Hurry because May 20 is the last day to vote! After all the results are tallied you may find you're the winner of an Ultimate Getaway for Two. Your votes enter you into a drawing to win a two-night, three-day trip to the Shores Resort & Spa in Daytona Beach, plus $200 in resort credit. Plane tickets for two included. If that isn't an incentive to visit Jezebel online then I don't know what is.

I'll give you a look at my ballot:
Best Italian - La Tavola Trattoria

Best Seafood - Bonefish Grill

Best Mexican – Chipotle

Best Sushi - Aqua Blue

Best Dessert – Aria

Best Wine Bar - SIP The Experience

Best Tapas - Woodfire Grill

Best Steak - Morton’s The Steakhouse Downtown and Buckhead

Best Take Out - Whole Foods Market

Best New Restaurant – VITA

Best Power Lunch - Fogo de Chão

Best Romantic Dinner - Food Studio®

Best Neighborhood Pub - Marlow’s Tavern

Best Singles Scene – Trilogy

Best Celebrity Spotting - South City Kitchen ® Midtown & Vinings

Best Outside Patio – Ecco

Best Vibe – The Globe

Best View - Wolf Mountain Vineyards & Winery

Best Brunch – Canoe

Daily Reasons to Go to the Globe

I remember the day the Globe opened. All types of people were there, enjoying the vibe, the food, the drinks, and each other. This hasn't changed. It remains one of the coolest spots in the city. And this time of year their patio beats all others. Check out their May Sundown Sessions with enticing art and live jazz events scheduled throughout the week. Here's the breakdown:

Mondays, head on over for “Midtown Mondays” -- mojitos, margaritas and martinis are merely $5.

Wednesdays, Palette brings an evening of art and wine to the patio “gallery” with paintings by local artist Shana Robbins from 6-9 p.m. No cover. Four-by-four wine tasting (four wines, four bites) is just $15 from 5 – 7 p.m. Jazz artist Kirstin Mitchell performs with visuals provided by film-maker Robbie Land.

Thursdays, The Jacob Deaton Trio performs jazz standards and more from 7:30-11:30 p.m. No cover. Chill with $3 Peroni draft beer and $5 mint juleps and martinis after 5 p.m.

Fridays, get down for the weekend as members of Noot D’Noot and a DJ fill the night with electronic soul, funk and jazz from 8 p.m. until midnight. No cover. $3 Imperial beer after 5 p.m.

Saturdays feature The Spencer Garn Quartet “SG4” with their own style of soul, jazz, funk, boogaloo and heavy organ grooves. What will be the surprise drink special by mixologist Russell? Come find out! 8 p.m. until midnight. No cover.

No plans for this weekend yet? Here ya go: Friday, May 16 and Saturday, May 17, the Tenacity Trio stirs up its own blend of soulful, “make-you-feel-good” jazz and funk. 8 p.m. – midnight. No cover.

The GLOBE: 75 Fifth Street, NW; 404-541-1487.

BAG YOUR GROCERIES AND FEED 100 RWANDAN SCHOOL CHILDREN!

Whole Foods Markets and its customers kissed plastic bags goodbye on Earth Day. Enter Lauren Bush and the reusable "FEED 100 Bag" that holds plenty of food while providing funds to cover 100 nutritious meals for hungry school children in Rwanda through the United Nation World Food Program's (WFP) School Feeding Program. Bush, co-founder and CEO of FEED Projects, former model and niece of President George Bush, will be at Whole Foods Market - Buckhead on Monday, May 12 at 6 p.m. to sip and sup with guests at a free reception and to show a video about FEED Project. Purchase a FEED 100 bag while you're there and have it signed by Lauren Bush!

Exclusive to Whole Foods Markets, each $29.99 bag is constructed of organic cotton and natural burlap by workers who are treated fairly in safe, clean working environments and paid livable wages and overtime. The eco-friendly bags make a fashion statement and are ideal for shopping and travel as each one folds into its own small pouch. Whenever you use the bag you'll be reminded of what you can do to help children in need of nourishment. For each bag purchased, $10 will be donated to the World Food Program's Rwanda School Feeding operation with the remainder going to cover the costs of producing the bag and program oversight by the FEED foundation. Whole Foods Market does not make a profit from the sale of these bags.
You'll find the FEED 100 reusable shopping bags at the checkout counters at all Whole Foods Market stores. For more details on the bag, visit http://www.feedprojects.org/.