A Cocktail Store - What More Could You Want?

I love Cocktail Hour. The store. (Well, I love cocktail hour the hour too.) It's right near my house, the owners Carl and Peter are soooooo nice, and their biz is all about cocktails - how fun is that? But they do a lot more - they like to help people host the perfect cocktail party. You know it can be a little scary. Cocktail Hour specializes in “The Art of the Cocktail” and has tips, ideas, foods and accessories to peel you off the rocks and stir you into smooth host mode for your own in-house cocktail parties, barbeques and come-over-for-dinner dates. Wall art to complete the look, stemware, picnic and travel gear, Grainware acrylics, gifts, books and recipes…it’s all here. They have classes too. Learn more and sign up for the newsletter. Open from 10 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Tuesday – Saturday; closed Sundays and Mondays in July and August. In the Peachtree Battle Shopping Center, 2385 Peachtree Road, NE; 404-846-4414.

Buy Local: Pick Summer Menus at Ecco and South City Kitchen

Summer’s longer days and garden pickings have grown into fresh new seasonal menus at Fifth Group Restaurants’® Ecco and South City Kitchen Midtown and Vinings. The harvest is bountiful, yet space is limited, so click on the links to view the entire menu of mouthwatering morsels at each restaurant.

European-inspired Ecco rules the neighborhood for share-ables, cheeses and desserts. Check out their summer spread here. Ecco: 40 70th Street in Midtown; 404-347-9555.

South City Kitchen Midtown plates up Deep South-gone-uptown specialties that show off the farm at weekday lunch and nightly dinner, courtesy of Executive Chef Dean Dupuis and Sous Chefs Chris Mullally and Blake Wagner. Check out their menu and make plans to visit soon! South City Kitchen Midtown: 1144 Crescent Avenue; 404-873-7358.

A few miles away at South City Kitchen Vinings, Executive Chef Chip Ulbrich and Sous Chef Adam Maddox roll out their summer menu to the neighborhood. Their new menu offers similar Southern favorites made with the freshest ingredients. South City Kitchen Vinings: 1675 Cumberland Parkway; 770-435-0700.

Appetite Stimulators Help You Squeeze the Most From Your Economic Stimulus Check

It was very nice of the government to throw a little extra dough our way. Now that we have it, what will we do with it? Fear not! The ladies of the Atlanta Dish have a wonderful idea: feast on fabulous food at some of Atlanta's hottest restaurants! Check out the great deals going on right now:

Cash in on three courses for $22 on Sundays and Mondays at Aqua Blue, where a special prix fixe menu balances fine dining and perfect portions for summer. Start with your choice of the Aqua Blue house salad with sweet herb vinaigrette or classic Caesar with shaved Parmesan. Move on to braised beef tenderloin with Madeira peppercorn sauce, served over root vegetables and Yukon Gold potatoes; roasted chicken cappellini served with a sun-dried tomato sauce; pecan-crusted trout served over sweet potato hash, sun corn, thin green beans with peach beurre blanc; or Atlantic salmon or yellowfin tuna served grilled, cast-iron blackened or bamboo-steamed with a choice of side dishes. Total it out with warm Mississippi mud pie topped with vanilla bean ice cream or classic crème brûlée. Tax and gratuity not included. 1564 Holcomb Bridge Road, Roswell; 770-643-8886.

Five restaurants. Three course menus. One price: $26.95. Through July 19, Fifth Group Restaurants'® "Summer of Love" specials cater to the penny-wise who love to dine out. Each restaurant has its own personality and three-course, prix-fixe menu. Try one every week night, and you'll still have money for the weekend.

Ecco was recently ranked for its wine list and as one of the best new restaurants in the world by the International Restaurant and Hotel Awards (IRHA). 40 7th Street, NE in Midtown; 404-347-9555.
Food Studio® is open for dining through July 19; then the King Plow Arts Center landmark joins the world of special event functions only! 887 W. Marietta Street in the King Plow Arts Center; 404-815-6677.
La Tavola® is your authentic Italian trattoria, complete with outside seating, and it's right around the corner in Virginia Highland: 992 Virginia Avenue; 404-873-5430.
South City Kitchen® serves up New South classics with smiles in two locations. In Midtown: 1144 Crescent Avenue; 404-873-7358. In Vinings: 1675 Cumberland Parkway; 770-435-0700.

Check out Jazz n Juice at the GLOBE on Friday and Saturday evenings. Guests will enjoy half price bottles of wine while taking in some sweet summer sounds of live jazz. Stretch your dollar further with Midtown Mondays, where mojitos, margaritas and martinis go for $5 each. 75 Fifth Street, NW; 404-541-1487.

Walk, drive or MARTA it to Morton's The Steakhouse in Buckhead for Power Hour at Bar 1221. Here, all Bar Bites are $5 from 5 to 6:30 p.m. and 9:30 to 11 p.m. Monday through Friday. Power up for REAL appetizers: three miniature crab cakes served with mustard mayonnaise; iceberg wedge bites served with tomato, egg, bacon and blue cheese; chicken goujonettes served fried with mustard mayonnaise; three prime cheeseburgers served on silver dollar rolls with lettuce, tomato and purple onions; jumbo lump crab, spinach and artichoke dip served with toasted French bread croutons; four petite filet mignon sandwiches served with mustard mayonnaise; and blue cheese French fries topped with melted blue cheese, red pepper flakes and chives. Served at the Buckhead location only: Peachtree Lenox Building, 3379 Peachtree Road, NE; 404-816-6535.

$99 for two buys the steak and seafood combo at Morton's The Steakhouse Downtown and Buckhead locations. Enjoy high-roller surf and turf at low-ball pricing: 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; a signature Morton's potato and vegetable to share; and a choice of Morton's legendary hot chocolate cake or Key lime pie for dessert. Reservations required. Buckhead: Peachtree Lenox Building at 3379 Peachtree Road, NE; 404-816- 6535. Downtown: SunTrust Plaza Building at 303 Peachtree Center Avenue; 404-577-4366.

VITA wakes up quiet Tuesday nights with lively Tuesday Tastings from 6 to 8 p.m. $15 per person includes a tasting of 5-6 wines and complimentary appetizers. Mama mia! Such a deal! 2110 Peachtree Road and Bennett Street; 404-367-8482.

Pack a shopping bag and cruise the aisles on a Whole Foods Market "Way to Shop Value Tour!" A Whole Foods Market "Value Guru" guide will show you how to find the real deals in every department, proving it is possible to stretch your food budget without giving up organic and natural foods! Tours are offered weekly and registration is required as tours are limited to 12 "tourists" each; check out your local store's schedule at www.wholefoodsmarket.com.

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

The glass is NOT half empty simply because the dream California wine country trek is out of the budget this summer. Wolf Mountain Vineyards & Winery has a full glass -- and even bottles -- waiting just a couple of gallons of gas away from Atlanta in Dahlonega's hill country. Head north on Sunday, July 13 for "A Tribute to California Cuisine and Jazz," featuring recipes from Napa Valley's renowned restaurants paired with Wolf Mountain's family of estate wines and live jazz. The event is $30 per person (excluding wine, tax and gratuity), and seating times are 12:30 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. All Wolf Mountain wines are priced separately and will be available by the glass or bottle. Advance reservations are a must; call 706-867-9862. 180 Wolf Mountain Trail in Dahlonega, Georgia.

Chef Tony Ballester of Morton's Makes The Million Dollar Burger

Last week, Chef Tony Ballester of Morton's The Steakhouse in Buckhead demonstrated how to make the restaurant's "Million Dollar Burger" on the set of WAGA-TV's "Good Day Atlanta." This is the hamburger that Klaus Fritsch made for Arnie Morton when they both worked for the Playboy Clubs in the early 1970s. From that day, they started the business partnership that has become Morton's The Steakhouse. Pictured above is Chef Tony teaching tricks of the trade to Good Day Atlanta Co-host Mark Hayes. The "Million Dollar Burger," which only costs $19.78 - the year that Morton's was founded, is available at both Atlanta locations of Morton's (Buckhead and Downtown) every Sunday in July, August and September. And the best part - $5 of each burger sold will be donated to the Make-A-Wish Foundation as part of Morton's 30th Anniversary partnership with the Foundation. For those of you brave enough to try and replicate the burger for yourself, here's the recipe:

Morton’s “Million Dollar” Hamburger
Ingredients (serves six):
4 pounds coarse-grind ground sirloin
4 large eggs
3/4 cup tomato juice
1 tablespoon salt
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
6 large hamburger buns
3 tablespoons clarified butter
Six 1/2-inch-thick slices tomato
Six 1/4-inch-thick slices Spanish onion
6 large leaves iceberg lettuce
Ketchup or another topping, for serving

Directions:
1. Preheat the broiler. Lightly oil and position the rack as close to the heat source as possible.

2. In a mixing bowl, combine the sirloin, eggs, tomato juice, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a wooden spoon to mix thoroughly. Divide the meat into six equal portions and gently form them into patties. Transfer to the broiler pan, and using a small sharp knife, make a crosshatch mark on the top of each burger about 1/8 inch deep. (This lets the juices percolate through the burger, and we also like the way it looks.)

3. Brush the inside of each bun with butter. Toast the buns in the broiler for about 30 seconds on each side, or until lightly browned; be careful that the buns don’t get too browned. Remove the buns and cover to keep warm. Reposition the broiler tray so that it is about 6 inches from the heat.

4. Broil the burgers for 3 to 3 1/2 minutes on each side for rare, 4 minutes on each side for medium-rare, and 4 1/2 to 5 minutes on each side for medium.

5.To serve, put the bottom half of each bun on a plate. Top with a burger and then a tomato slice, onion slice, and lettuce leaf. Add the top of the bun. Repeat to make five more burgers. Serve with ketchup, if desired.

Dogwood Restaurant Stage 3

Dogwood is really beginning to take shape. The walls are up, the stairs are stable and the kitchen is almost ready for cooking. In this video, owners Shane Tuohy and Scott Black walk me through the restaurant like two proud parents showing off their pride and joy. Follow this link to their youtube channel to find stage one and two of the videos. It's amazing to see how far they have come.

Dogwood is set to open Monday, July 28. Be sure and drop by the ground floor of the Reynolds condominum building at 565 Peachtree Street in downtown Atlanta to see the final product!

Le Burrito, S'il vous plaît

Not that I needed an excuse to eat at Chipotle Mexican Grill, (I eat there a few times a week anyway) but they have given me yet another one all the same. Introducing “Le Burrito” – made with naturally raised chicken, black beans, cilantro lime rice, mild tomato salsa and freshly made guacamole – available at any Chipotle from July 5-27! This limited-time offering will be wrapped to your order in honor of the American cycling team, Garmin-Chipotle Presented by H30, which will compete in the Tour de France race. Chipotle has sponsored team Garmin-Chipotle for the past three years because the team upholds its mission of integrity in everything it does. This professional biking team says “NO” to performance enhancing drugs just as Chipotle says “NO” to hormones, antibiotics or other drugs in the pork, beef and vegetarian-fed chicken in Chipotle’s burritos, tacos and bowls (burritos without the tortilla). Sounds like both the cyclists and the wrappers are into fast and healthy lifestyles!

Chipotle has led the pack in riding its vision of Food With Integrity -- using fresh ingredients that are sustainably grown and naturally raised with respect for the animals, the land and the farmers who produce the food. Try a healthy Le Burrito at any of more than 730 Chipotle restaurants!
Team Garmin-Chipotle Presented by H30 is a professional American cycling team dedicated to promoting ethical sporting and developing the next generation of cycling champions. The team's 25 riders come from all over the world to achieve one common goal: ride clean and ride hard. In 2007, the team partnered with the Agency for Cycling Ethics (ACE) to create the most progressive anti-doping system in the professional sports world. Each rider will undergo combined voluntary testing at least 700 times throughout the 2008 season, 20 times the number of tests that most professional cyclists are subject to annually. The 2008 team is led by five national champions, two Tour de France Yellow Jersey wearers, a Tour de France polka-dot jersey wearer, one former World Champion, and a previous winner of Paris-Roubaix.

Fancy Food Show 08

Well, my feet have finally stopped hurting but my mind is still racing from all the cool products we saw at the Fancy Food Show in NY this week. Over 150,000 food/beverage products in 350,000 square feet of space - can you imagine! Meryl and I did our best to sample as much as possible, but how much chocolate, pretzels and popcorn can you eat? We were thrilled that our clients, tsp spices and BaconSalt, stood out. In fact, tsp won "best food gift" for the whole show!!!! They also got tons of press, including Time magazine! Their new product SmartSpice was a big hit - look for it in September at Whole Foods. BaconSalt was one of 10 products chosen to be on Good Morning America Tuesday morning! And they also attracted a ton of attention from media at the show. We were so proud to represent them both.

Celeb sightings included the Barefoot Contessa and the "Chinese girl" from Soy Vay marinades. Outstanding tastes included wine ice cream, coconut water, and caffe acapella - looks like chocolate but it's a coffee bar. YUM.

We can't wait to go back next year!

So, You had a Bang-Up 4th, or Maybe Fifth...Try One of These Bloody Marys to Cure the Common Hangover and Help You Ease Back Into Life

July 4th means friends, family and good times.....maybe too good of a time. If you went overboard on your celebration of the red, white and booze, let some of the metro-area eateries nurse you back to health with a dose or two of their hangover-halting Bloody Marys. Save this list of who-has-what in their special version of the classic hangover cure!

Aqua Blue in Roswell swizzles with gorgonzola stuffed olives, lime and salt ($7.50). 1564 Holcomb Bridge Road in Roswell; 770-643-8886.
Bonefish Grill hooks the citrus-fresh zest of lime garnish in its Bloody Marys ($7). 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.
Canoe anchors it all together with lime, celery and olive ($7.50) and serves it riverside for a sunny dose of the great outdoors. 4199 Paces Ferry Road, NW; 770-432-2663.
The GLOBE goes classic metro with green olives and celery ($5). 75 Fifth Street, NW; 404-541-1487

La Tavola Trattoria incorporates Fris Vodka and an olive garnish in its version of the saucy drink ($6.50). 992 Virginia Avenue, NE in Virginia-Highland; 404-873-5430.
Marlow's Tavern complements its modern tavern fare with refreshing Bloody Marys served with limes ($7). Now open at Northlake in the Doubletree Hotel: 4156 LaVista Road; 770-938-1026. 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.

Both locations of South City Kitchen® add a little kick to their extra-spicy Bloody Marys and give you olives and celery so you can continue to stir things up a bit ($8). Midtown: 1144 Crescent Avenue; 404-873-7358. Vinings: 1675 Cumberland Parkway; 770-435-0700.
VITA blends a healthy mix of seasonal flavors in its Bloody Mary, but the secret ingredient is the pickled green bean with which it's served ($7.50 or $5 at their Bellini brunch).2110 Peachtree Road; 404-367-8482.

Oh Say Can You See...VITA's Bellini Brunch Awaiting Thee After The Peachtree Road Race!

When you’re bobbing and weaving your way down Peachtree in the July 4th Peachtree Road Race, you’ll run right by it . . . VITA, at Peachtree and Bennett Street (right before “Cardiac Hill,” err, Piedmont Hospital). Keep jogging to the finish at the Civic Center, meet your friends under the “V” balloon (for VITA), then swing back to celebrate your accomplishments over VITA’s popular Bellini Brunch from 11 a.m. until 4 p.m. VITA Owner Tony LaRocco and his friendly staff have the ultimate after-race filling station, and it’s open for all, from runners to walkers to spectators! Refuel for the day with a three-egg VITA omelet hugging your choice of fillings, Italian country bread French toast, open-faced spinach frittata or an open-faced chicken frittata omelet loaded with pulled chicken, pancetta and mozzarella cheese. All dishes are $12 and are accompanied by seasonal fresh fruit and roasted potatoes. For hydration beyond sports drinks, try a bubbly Bellini, mimosa or glass of champagne ($6/glass) – or make it a lycopene-loaded Bloody Mary ($5/glass). Come back for more on Saturday or Sunday, the usual brunch days! VITA is located at 2110 Peachtree Road and Bennett Street; 404-367-8482.

Get Your Food Studio Fix Before July 19!

Fifth Group Restaurants'® Food Studio has reigned as one of Atlanta’s top choices for honoring special occasions for the past 12 years, but it's time for a new chapter. On July 19, Fifth Group Restaurants’ Partners Robby Kukler, Steve Simon and Kris Reinhard are taking Food Studio to permanent “occasion” status as a full-time event space managed by the company’s award-winning catering division, Bold American® Catering. The stunning space with flexible seating within the historic King Plow Arts Center will be the place to hold corporate and social events from rehearsal dinners and wedding receptions to business meetings and parties. Bold American Catering Executive Chef Todd Annis will meet with guests to customize menus specifically for their special events. While we're going to miss Food Studio's fare and yummy cocktails dearly, we're looking forward to upcoming events in the restaurant's unique space. Those who are interested in obtaining details and booking the space can call 404-815-1178.

Food Studio patrons: Perhaps you became engaged or marked a special occasion at the Food Studio. Come mark the occasion one more time before the restaurant converts to event space on July 19. From July 7 through July 19, Food Studio, along with all other Fifth Group Restaurants, will offer a special summer three-course prix fixe menu for $26.95 in addition to the regular menus. Make dinner reservations at Food Studio through July 19 by calling 404-815-6677 or visiting www.fifthgroup.com. Food Studio is located at 887 West Marietta Street, NW in the King Plow Arts Center.

Celebrate Atlanta's PRIDE Festival at Marlow's in Midtown July 4th and 5th

Celebrate this year's PRIDE festival at Marlow's in Midtown on Friday, July 4 and Saturday, July 5. DJ Chris Griswold will be spinning tunes on both nights from 10 p.m. to 3 a.m. Sponsored by Red Bull energy drink, the restaurant will offer food and drink specials on both days along with $5 Stoli martinis all day on Friday and Saturday. There is no cover charge to attend. Marlow's in Midtown is located at 950 West Peachtree Street, 404-815-0323.

Kettle Chips Over Atlanta

I'm a little late in posting this, but it was such a fantastic photo I couldn't let it go to waste! Last Thursday, Marlow's Tavern in Midtown provided their amazing appetizers (including these gorgeous housemade chips with blue cheese dressing) for Skirt! magazine's 2nd year anniversary party.

The party took place on the roof of MidCity Lofts and was quite the scene! Tropical drinks, incredible tunes from D.J. Ruckus, Skirt! magazine's fabulous crowd, and Marlow's Tavern. What's not to love??

Dining Out Family-Style at VITA

It's hard to find a restaurant in Atlanta where you can get the whole group together and still enjoy a good meal. No worries, VITA has you covered. They now offer special two-, three- and four-course family-style menus for groups of six or more. Now it's easy for friends, families or office groups to gather 'round the table for delicious Italian food.

For $16 per person there is a choice of two courses - two appetizers, two salads or two pastas. If there is a bigger crowd, $20 per person will cover three courses with two appetizers, two salads, and two pastas. If the group is hungry the four-course option includes two appetizers, two salads, two pastas and three entrees for $30 per person. No more worrying about how to split the check!

Options for each course come from VITA's menu of Italian favorites, including:

• Appetizers of tomato and basil brushetta, calamari fritti, grilled portabella mushroom, fresh mussels “VITA style” in your choice of sauce, olive or white bean tapenade, or caponata.
  
  
• Salads such as the chef’s spinach salad, mozzarella and tomato, VITA house salad or Caesar salad.
  
  
• Pasta piles plates with linguine in simple sauces or with sausage, meatballs, sausage and peppers; fusilli con broccoli, penne with escarole e fagiole or penne con carciofi; rigatoni ala melanzane (with eggplant) or rigatoni ala vodka; and pappardelle e fungi or Bolognese.
  
  
• Entrées feature traditionally prepared chicken, seafood, veal, steaks and chops. Long on options, the list includes chicken Marsala, veal piccata or Genovese, linguine with red or white clam sauce, fruitti di mare, salmon Romanesco, filet of beef saltimbocca, and Tony’s filet of beef or veal chop.
  
  
• Desserts are an additional $5 per person and include an assortment of all of VITA’S house-made desserts, including fresh seasonal fruit, house cheesecake, cannoli, and berries zabaglione.

Located at 2110 Peachtree Road and Bennett Street; 404-367-8482.

Gentlemen, Start Your Engines! Marlow’s Tavern Midtown Revs Up Thursday Evenings With “Men’s Night”

A few weeks ago, a friend and I had a quick discussion about “girls' night out” promotions which went a little like this:
Him: Girls' night out, huh? Why do y’all get all the specials?! We’re the ones spending the real money; we have to pay to get in, pay for our OWN drinks and buy you drinks.
Me: So?
Him: When are WE gonna get our own night? We can have “guys night” drink specials, free cover and appetizer specials or something, just like girls get everywhere? When are restaurants gonna get wise and act like they actually want our business?
Me: (Making the “bitter beer” face) Why?
Him: Because girls ALWAYS get a dedicated night. I bet guys’ night would be the most popular night of the week.
Me: But, you go anyway, why should places give you a special to do what you already do?
Him: Sooo… you’re both spoiled and hopeless.
Me: (Trying to seem introspective) Perhaps.

Guess what! Someone must have been listening, because Marlow’s Midtown is clearing every Thursday night for guys to get together for “Men’s Night” on the (mid)town. Starting this week, guys will enjoy night-long $5 cocktails, $5 beer and $5 appetizers on Thursday evenings. Complement those deals with late-night music and free parking at Plaza Midtown.

Cheers!

Open until 2 a.m. on Thursdays, Marlow’s in Midtown is located at 950 West Peachtree Street; 404-815-0323.

Marlow's Tavern Opens in Tucker

I got a sneak peek of this new Marlow's on Saturday night and it's awesome! Granted, I don't find myself in Tucker on a regular basis but I'll be thinking of reasons to come here from now on. Located just inside the Doubletree Hotel at I-285 and LaVista Road, this Marlow's is an integral part of the newly flagged hotel. It's hip and fun, serving the same great eats we all love - shrimp and crab nachos, the best calamari in town, that great flatbread - well, you get the idea. Good food to go with the great cocktails, beer and wine. Oh! And there's a cool rooftop patio that is going to be SO popular with the office dwellers awaiting traffic relief. Stop by and say hi to GM Torleif Hoff.

They open daily at 11:30 a.m. and continue on through dinner. Plenty of free parking; no reservations needed. American Express, Visa and MasterCard are accepted. 4156 LaVista Road; 770-938-1026.

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

Whole Foods Market In Midtown Hosts "A Taste of Local" Wine Dinner

When I first heard that Whole Foods Market in Midtown was hosting a wine dinner, I couldn't quite believe what I was hearing...a grocery store hosting a wine dinner? Where would we all sit? What type of food would they serve? Well, my curiosity got the best of me, so I decided to sign up to attend the event last night. And, boy, am I glad I did! For $20 per person, I was able to enjoy a six-course meal with wine pairings. What a steal! The marketing store leader explained to me that they host a wine dinner every month with a different theme. They are all five to seven courses and include wine. Last night's theme was "A Taste of Local" which featured all local purveyors such as Wolf Mountain Vineyards and grass-fed beef from White Oak Pastures. I was quite impressed with the ambiance as well -- the staff pushed all of the tables together and covered them with white table cloths. I even saw people bringing in candleabras, just for the occasion. Over 80 people attended last night, many who had been in before. If you're looking for an out-of-ordinary wine dinner that offers great food and value, I highly recommend signing up to attend. Call the store for reservations -- 404-853-1681.

Gerry Klaskala Names His "Key Ingredient" in the Sunday Paper

In the Low Country, locals call them "busters" or "peelers" when they're getting ready to bust out of their shells. If they've just shed, they're called "velvets," and they're highly sought after, especially the female ones. In modern menu lingo, the term is "soft-shell crabs," crustless-crustaceans that Aria's Executive Chef Gerry Klaskala is highly qualified to discuss, having been a part of Savannah's coastal scene for six years. Gerry relates his insight into this underwater softy in this week's "Key Ingredient" column in The Sunday Paper. For a quick dive into the topic, click here.
The June 22 issue of The Sunday Paper is free and easily within pinching range if you live in the metro area. Read it online at SundayPaper.com. Visit Aria in Buckhead to enjoy soft-shell crabs in their ultimate state-on-a- plate, next to the restaurant's dill shallot dipping sauce.

Aria: 490 East Paces Ferry Road; 404-233-7673.

Meet for a Meat-Free Wine Dinner at Ecco on June 24

Animal lovers can still be happy as herbivores in a pasture at this month’s Fresh Flavors Wine Dinner up for the picking at Ecco, Fifth Group Restaurants’® Mediterranean bistro in Midtown. Ecco Executive Chef Micah Willix unites summer’s bounty of locally grown veggies and fruit with tender pasta and perfectly paired wines at this 6:30 p.m. event on Tuesday, June 24. Passed hors d’oeuvres signal the evening’s start: crostini with fresh caprino, cantaloupe gazpacho and mozzarella in carozza share time with Laurenz “Charming” Gruner-Veltliner, Austria ’05. The first course follows featuring a salad of avocado and radishes topped with gewürztraminer vinaigrette and lemon verbena and served with Willm Reserve Gewürztraminer, Alsace, France ’06. The second course features house-made rigatoni with oregano, summer squash and blossoms served with Cairel Arneis, Cascina Cheirello, Italy ’06. A third course follows with confit of wild mushroom with fresh beans and oven-dried tomatoes and is accompanied by Domaine Lafage Grenache, Languedoc, France ’03 and Artazu “Artazuri,” Navarra, Spain ’06. The delectable dinner ends with a sweet note of wild Georgia blackberry preserves, short bread and crème fraîche. Cost is $50 per person. Reservations are required and are limited; call 404-347-9555. Ecco is located at 40 7th Street NE in Midtown.

Blues, Brews & BBQ Three-Day Festival will be Smokin' June 20-22 at South City Kitchen and Vinings

There's nothing like a good ole' fashion barbeque to start the summer off right, but it's too hot outside to do the cooking yourself! Let someone else do the job for ya! South City Kitchen Midtown and Vinings are happy to help you while also helping others!

Hot soulful sounds, saucy eats and frosty Sweetwater beer are the clues; forks and fingers are the tools for success at "Blues, Brews and BBQ," a three- day summer souls-tice at South City Kitchen Midtown and Vinings going on Friday, June 20 through Sunday, June 22. Choose your 'cue of choice from the special menu (regular menu also available) then lick your fingers while live blues bands play each night--and toss back a Sweetwater beer or two while you're at it.

Tune menus for each location:

South City Kitchen Midtown

Friday, June 20 from 6 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. - Chick Willis

Saturday, June 21 from 6 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. - Electromatics

Sunday, June 22 from 5 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. - Bill Sheffield

South City Kitchen Vinings

Friday, June 20 from 6 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. - Electromatics

Saturday, June 21 from 6 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. - Chick Willis

Sunday, June 22 from 6 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. - Breeze Kings

'Cue menu for both locations:Appetizers include watermelon and tomato salad with shaved red onion, aged goat cheese, extra virgin olive oil and a cider vinegar sorghum syrup reduction ($7.50); Georgia Gouda fritters with charred corn salad and barbecue aioli ($6.95); smoked pork shoulder with corn flour cake, green mango slaw and chipotle barbecue sauce ($7.95); and sautéed garlic shrimp with creamed corn and barbecued sweet onion ($9.75).

BBQ entrees satisfy with a 14-hour smoked beef brisket sandwich with pickled Vidalia onions, BBQ- mustard mayonnaise and a side of garlic mustard greens ($12); "Sweet Tea" smoke-roasted half chicken served with Yukon potatoes, baby spinach and lemon jus ($17.95); deep fried pork ribs with spicy crust in a cider-Creole mustard glaze with broccoli macaroni and cheese ($18.95); and BBQ mahi mahi with white cheddar grits, grilled corn and arugula salad and BBQ butter ($21).

10% of Sunday's sales will go to Camp Twin Lakes, a local non-profit organization offering recreational, therapeutic and educational programs for seriously ill children facing physical, emotional and life challenges, will receive 10 percent of Sunday's sales.

South City Kitchen has two locations: 1144 Crescent Avenue in Midtown (404-873-7358) and 1675 Cumberland Parkway in Vinings (770-435-0700). Reservations recommended. The Midtown location is open seven days a week and serves lunch, dinner and Sunday brunch. The Vinings location serves dinner nightly and Sunday brunch.

Shop. Then Come Eat And Drink At Marlow’s Tavern or Aqua Blue For Fun Sex And The City Nights

As a recovering shop-a-holic, I feel like I understand Carrie on higher level than most. My innate need for shoes and shopping is near primitive and has definitely left its mark on my pocketbook. I even thought about starting a support group for other recovering shop-a-holics. Although I’m sure Carrie wouldn’t be caught dead attending a meeting like that, I bet she would agree that women should be there to support each other. What better way to support each other than a girl’s night out?!

Carrie would agree with the philosophy behind Marlow’s Girls Night Out: spend less on cocktails and chow, have more moolah for shopping! Call your girlfriends and gather at Marlow’s every Wednesday in June for a Sex in the City-inspired evening of gab plus $5 drinks including the NY cosmopolitan, the “Absolut” Hunk, the Metropolitan and other city-fied cocktails along with $5 flighty white wine flights. The movie makes for tasty $5 appetizer fodder as well, bringing on summer pizza (inspired by 21 Club), jerk chicken satay (via Monkey Bar) and black bean and salsa dip (courtesy of Centrico).

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.

Wanna celebrate an evening with your girls while supporting a good cause? Head to Aqua Blue on Friday, June 20 for their Sex and the City-themed fundraiser night. Enjoy $5 cosmos and half-priced appetizers all named after your favorite characters from the star-studded film! Stretching your shopping potential even further will be giveaways from local vendors and raffle prizes . . . including an Aqua Blue wine dinner for four or dinner for two. Soundtrack, err background music, will be provided by David Scott Beluga’s Piano Man. Proceeds go to the Susan G. Komen Foundation for breast cancer research.

Aqua Blue: 1564 Holcomb Bridge Road, Roswell; 770-643-8886.

Caryn and I got up early this morning for some behind-the-scenes action in the FOX 5 TV newsroom. Chef Richard Blais was cooking up a tasty Oreo cookie confection that he will be serving tomorrow night at the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation's annual Chocolate! event. Leave it up to Blais to take an old favorite and add a little liquid nitrogen to it! To see Blais and other top Atlanta chefs, join us tomorrow night at Villa Christina from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. The event features a full dinner buffet, martini bar, silent auction, two bands, and, of course, all-you-can-eat-chocolate treats! Tickets are $65 in advance, $75 at the door.

LIT Kitchen Classes Cover All Glasses -- From Dogfish Beer To French Wines

Who says school's out for the summer? Fine tune your knowledge on finely crafted beverages this week at LIT Kitchen.

Dogfish Beer Tasting on Tuesday, June 17

Chef Carmen Cappello explains the brewing process behind Dogfish from Milton, Delaware, and tells why these beers are so pair-able with whatever you're serving. Chow on braised beef brisket and white BBQ sauce with Dogfish Festina Peche; and grilled vegetable antipasto with red wine vinegar and roasted chicken banh mi with pickled carrot and daikon paired with Dogfish Indian Brown Ale. 7 p.m. $45 per person.

An introduction to the Wines of the World on Thursday, June 19

While concentrating on wines from Bordeaux, Burgundy, Rhone Valley, Loire and Alsace, learn about French wine laws, permitted grape varieties and viticulture practices that were created to protect wine producers and consumers. 7 p.m. $45 per person, includes materials, wine and palate-cleansing cheeses.

In addition to providing a facility for exploring all things culinary through classes, the 3,500 square foot space located in west Midtown Atlanta is an ideal venue for parties and events. Visit the Web site, sign up for more than one class or event and receive 25 percent off the price of your second activity. LIT Kitchen: 433C Bishop Street; 404-249-4300.

Dad Deserves a Delicious Dinner This Father's Day

Around my house, Father’s Day has always been a full fledge holiday and is also the only time when Dad allows others to dote on him. It wasn’t until I was grown that I understood why: my father works extremely hard for our family. For him, beyond birthdays, Christmas and any other gift giving season that has been added to the calendar over the years, Father’s Day celebrates the accomplishment of which he is the most proud – my siblings and I.

This year, make dad even more proud by creating lasting memories with him at his favorite (or soon to be favorite) restaurant. Cheers to dads everywhere!!! Happy Father’s Day!!!

Take Dad to Atlanta’s beef haven, Fogo de Chão, where he can sit back and be showered with 15 savory cuts of delicious meat, carved tableside by request with no limit. And for Dads who don’t do meat, their stunning salad bar is sure to hit the spot. Atlanta’s Fogo de Chão, located at 3101 Piedmont Road, provides a succulent slice of Southern Brazilian hospitality on Father’s Day for lunch ($38.50) from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and for dinner ($48.50) from 4 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. To make reservations, call 404-266-9988.

Both Atlanta locations of Morton’s The Steakhouse will offer a four-course steak and seafood dinner for two on Sunday, June 15. For $99, this special 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 two salads (Caesar or Morton’s salad); one Morton’s signature potato and one fresh vegetable to share; and lastly, a choice of two desserts (Morton’s legendary hot chocolate cake or Key lime pie). Regular hours for both locations: 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. on Sunday. Additionally, the Morton’s Steak Bible ($30) and steak knives (set of six is $55 and set of two is $20) will be available for purchase at the restaurants as gifts for Dad. Buckhead: Peachtree Lenox Building at 3379 Peachtree Road, NE; 404-816-6535. Downtown: SunTrust Plaza Building at 303 Peachtree Center Avenue; 404-577-4366.

VITA will host its regular Bellini Brunch on Sunday, June 15, offering $5 martinis and a $5 Bloody Mary bar as well as $6 mimosas and Bellinis. Open all day Sunday: brunch and lunch menu served from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. and dinner menu served from 4 p.m. to 11 p.m. 2110 Peachtree Road, 404-367-8482.

The local Harry’s Farmers Market locations are holding a couple of creative events to get the little kids (ages two to five) involved with a gift for Father’s Day.
Sign up today for the free Kids Corner event at the Cobb location of Harry’s Farmers Market. On Saturday, June 14 at 11 a.m., Ms. Marcy and the gang will be making Dad a grilling apron for Father’s Day. The aprons and all the decorations are provided for your little ones to make Dad something he is sure to cherish forever. Harry’s Farmers Market in Marietta is located at 70 Powers Ferry Road, SE; 770-578-4400.

And if Daddy has a sweet tooth, the “decorate a cookie cake for Dad” Kids Corner event at the Harry’s Farmers Market in Alpharetta is the place to be. On Saturday, June 14, from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m., Daddy’s little angels can add all the trimmings to a scrumptious 12-inch cookie cake for him on his special day. This program is free, but registration is required. Register by Wednesday, June 11 at the customer service desk at Harry’s Farmers Market in Alpharetta located at 1180 Upper Hembree Road or call 770-664-6300.

On June 15, Wolf Mountain Vineyards & Winery will host its sixth annual Father’s Day barbecue brunch. The cost is $30 per person (excluding wine, tax and gratuity). All Wolf Mountain wines are priced separately and will be available by the glass or bottle. The two seating times are 12:30 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. Advanced reservations are required for all events; please call 706-867-9862 to reserve. 180 Wolf Mountain Trail in Dahlonega.

Bourbon, anyone?

I was born in Kentucky so I've always felt a certain kinship with bourbon. My family handed down the Mint Julep recipe like it was the secret to Coca-Cola. But it always seems like vodka's the spirit with all the buzz. Let's give bourbon some love! At Morton's The Steakhouse Buckhead tomorrow, June 13, you'll be able to taste a variety of premium bourbons from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Try a variety of select bourbons from the Small Batch Bourbon Collection and listen to Whiskey Professor (don't you love that title??) Bernie Lubbers as he takes them on a fascinating journey from the barrel to the bottle – all complemented with Morton’s fare. Tickets are $45 per person, inclusive of tax and gratuity. Space is limited, reservations required. Call Morton’s The Steakhouse Buckhead at 404-816-6535 to make your reservation. The restaurant is located in the Peachtree Lenox Building at 3379 Peachtree Road.

Tempt Your Taste Buds at the Annual March of Dimes Dining Out Event June 13

The March of Dimes Dining Out, now in its 24th year, is an evening filled with Atlanta’s most delectable dining and great fun with the proceeds going to a worthy cause. This year's Dining Out takes place tomorrow night, June 13, and features more than 40 of Atlanta’s finest restaurants in one unforgettable evening. Here is how it works, patrons enjoy a specially selected dinner with wine hosted at a participating restaurant. After dinner, the evening continues at Opera where everyone mingles for cocktails and dessert. Tables are $1,500 or $1,000, depending on the restaurant chosen, and are sold on a first come, first served basis. Price includes a three-course dinner for eight or ten guests, wine pairings, and gratuity as well as admission to the after party. Just want to join the after party? Tickets may be purchased for $40 each. Participating restaurants include some of my personal favorites like Aria and Canoe. For more information, contact Jennifer Cobb at 404-350-9800.

Aria: 490 East Paces Ferry Road; 404-233-7673.
Canoe: 4199 Paces Ferry Road, NW; 770-432-2663.

(photo courtesy of lhabbmar2008 at flickr.com)

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.