Aqua Blue Hosts Yelp Elite Group

Last night, the Yelp Elite group headed OTP to Aqua Blue in Roswell. The little treck outside the Perimeter seemed well worth it when I discovered it was also "Ladies Night" - $5 wine, mojitos and select apps at the bar. While I waited for Yelpers to arrive, I hung out with Elbie (bartender) who talked up all of the wonderful wines the restaurant had to offer.

Okay, so on to the event! Close to 90 people attended this outside event, so you can say the patio was packed! Aqua Blue offered Yelpers complimentary wine, beer and a Lake Lanier cocktail (quite tasty and refreshing). Two to three different types of freshly-made sushi was on the food table, along with fried calamari. Unfortunately, I was too full to stay for dinner, but I'll certainly make another trip up there sometime soon!

Atlanta Represents on Top Chef Las Vegas

Bravo TV has announced the contestants for season 6 of "Top Chef: Las Vegas" and you may recognize a few names. Three chefs from Atlanta will be on the show that premieres Wednesday, August 26 at 9 p.m. We are happy to share that our friend, Woodfire Grill's Executive Chef and Partner Kevin Gillespie will be joining 17 other contestants including Pura Vida's Hector Santiago and Eno's Eli Kirshtein on the show.

As a huge fan of the show, I will certainly be tuning in to watch the competition with host Padma Lakshmi alongside judges Tom Colicchio, Gail Simmons and Toby Young. Can't wait!

Whole Foods Market Eat Local Challenge

Are you ready to take on the Whole Foods Market Eat Local Challenge during the week of July 13 - 20? If you're up to the challenge, start checking out local foods from Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Alabama, Tennessee and some parts of Florida, homegrown local land. This is home for the foods you'll be eating next week if you accept the challenge. Not only will you be eating fresh foods that took a very short trip to your shopping bag, you'll be helping local farmers and economies as well. Register for the Eat Local Challenge on Saturday, July 11 at your local Whole Foods Market. At week's end, jot down your thoughts on the Whole Foods Market summary sheet, turn it in and you'll have a chance to win a $100 Whole Foods gift card!

Sushi and Drink Specials at RA

Tokyo Tea and Jade Lotus

Ever since my first visit to RA Sushi in Midtown, I have been craving more. Hearing about the half-priced select sushi and appetizers from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. every day was like music to my ears. But a visit isn't complete without a signature drink and the restaurant's Tokyo Tea, Rising Sun, Jade Lotus, and a Chang beer and sake bomb mix are $5 each. $4 buys select wine and margaritas; $3 snags lemon drops, mango martinis or Chang beer and $2 will get you PBR or hot sake. I know where the next post-work hangout will be.

Open everyday from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. with a late night menu available until midnight. 1010 Midtown at 1080 Peachtree Street; 404-267-0114.

Save The Date For Dogwood's Anniversary

Mark your calendars: Dogwood Owners Scott Black and Shane Touhy have planned a special five-course dinner to celebrate their Midtown restaurant’s first anniversary on July 20. Plan on savoring seasonally inspired Southern specialties along with award-winning wines from Napa’s Falcor Winery at the anniversary dinner party. A Falcor winemaker will be at the dinner to review wine and food pairings, and Dogwood will donate 10 percent of all proceeds from the event to Breast Friends, an Atlanta-based non-profit organization that provides support, practical assistance, information and resources for breast cancer patients and their loved ones. The party starts at 6:30 p.m. with cocktails at the bar followed by dinner at 7 p.m. Cost is $70 per person (plus tax and gratuity). Be sure to snag a seat by calling now for reservations. Touhy was named one of Atlanta’s Top 25 Chefs by The Sunday Paper and he was a guest chef at the renowned James Beard House in NYC this past April, so you won't want to miss out on his anniversary specials!

Dogwood is located in the Reynolds condominium building at 565 Peachtree Street, Suite A; 404-835-1410.

Almost Margarita Time!

I'd be hard pressed to come up with a day or time that's not right for a margarita, but hot July nights certainly beg for one, don't you think? My friend Katie sent me the following message and I just had to trust her on this. If you make it, let me know. Or better yet, call me and let me taste!!

"This is the BEST MARGARITA YOU WILL EVER HAVE…. Is at a restaurant called Lonesome Dove in Fort Worth, TX. Recipe below – I think we should try to make it one night. "

Jalapeno Cucumber Margarita
1- 1/2 oz Milagro Tequila
½ oz Cointreau
Fresh lime juice
2 slices fresh jalapenos
1 slice peeled cucumber
½ oz simple syrup
Muddle jalapenos and cucumber with simple syrup. Add ice, tequila, cointreau and lime juice. Shake and serve in cocktail glass.

Cheering on Hardy!

Murphy-Goode recently announced their top 50 for "A Really Goode Job" and we are estatic to say that Hardy from Dirty South Wine was one of the top 50 finalists chosen!

Now it is a waiting game to find out who is in the top 10 (announced July 7) and then the final pick (announced July 21). It is no secret who MLA will be cheering for--go Hardy!

4th of July Happenings Around Town

If you're looking to take a break from the kitchen this holiday weekend, here are a few places that will be serving out deals for the 4th of July.

Opening for the first time for the 4th, Aria is offering all Facebook fans a killer deal. Make reservations through OpenTable and put "Facebook" in the notes section or mention Facebook when phoning in and receive 50% off the food bill. The restaurant opens at 5:30 p.m. for dinner. 490 East Paces Ferry Road in Buckhead; 404-233-7673.

Stop by Aqua blue on Friday, July 3 and enjoy one free 1.5 pound steamed whole lobster appetizer with your dinner purchase. One freebie per table (tax and tip not included). Aqua blue will be open from 4-10 p.m.; mention this offer when making your reservation. 1564 Holcomb Bridge Road; 770-643-8886.

EVOS will be open serving healthy, slow-roasted steakburgers, Airfries, wraps, salads, and cool fruitshakes. And for the runners taking part in the Peachtree Road Race, EVOS is offering a FREE organic milk shake. Just drop by and show your t-shirt or bib number to receive the special offer. 5590 Roswell Road, NE at The Prado;404-252-4022.

All six Marlow's Tavern locations are open as usual on July 4th. 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; Vinings at 2355 Cumberland Parkway, 770-432-2526; Northlake at 4156 LaVista Road, 678-987-1197; and Duluth at 1950 Satellite Boulevard, 770-622-2033.

The Nook, On Piedmont Park will open for brunch at 9 a.m. for runners and their fans to enjoy the terrific Piedmont Park view. 1144 Piedmont Avenue in Midtown; 404-745-9222.

Head over to Panera Bread bakery-cafes for your 4th of July picnic goodies. Each Atlanta location will be open on the holiday during regular business hours providing good eats for firework watchers. Go online to find out which of Atlanta's 21 Panera locations is closest to you.

Midtown's newly opened RA Sushi will be serving light, cool sushi and sashimi on the hot, hot July 4th. Plus, it's convenient for Peachtree Road Race fans and for those heading to view the Centennial Olympic Park fireworks. 1010 Midtown at 1080 Peachtree Street; 404-267-0114.

Toast to the holiday with a Swirl at Uncle Julio's Casa Grande. The restaurant's signature drink is the perfect blend of frozen margarita and sangria. 1860 Peachtree Road, NW; 404-350-6767. To go line: 404-974-2991.

Woodfire Grill will be offering a threee-course dinner for $35 per person from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. that includes Chef Kevin Gillespie's roasted whole hog with his own Terminus City barbeque recipe. A $5 suggested donation for the all-you-can-drink SweetWater beer, and proceeds will go to "Save the Hooch."1782 Cheshire Bridge Road; 404-347-9055.

Have a safe and happy holiday weekend!

The Team Celebrates a Wedding

We are all meeting up tomorrow at the Carl House to celebrate Caryn's wedding! This gives me an excuse to come to the city outside of my monthly trip to see the team. We've all been hearing about the planning and can't wait to see how it all works out. I am especially excited about the wedding cake. Oh, and the champagne. Cheers to Caryn and Jason!

Atlanta Summer Beer Fest at Marlow's Tavern in Midtown

On Saturday, June 27, a good time is brewing at Marlow's Tavern. Marlow's is the place for some ice cold hydration in the form of frosty beer during the Atlanta Summer Beer Fest, taking place inside and out at the restaurant's Midtown location. From 4 p.m. until midnight, festival goers can try beers from Atlanta Brewing Company, SweetWater Brewing Company and Terrapin Beer Company from Athens, Ga. Each brew is $4, and tasting-size beers are $2. Guests can cast their votes for the festival’s best beer. Admission is free, and live music plays from 4 p.m. until 2 a.m. Free parking is available behind Marlow's in the garage, which is one block from MARTA’s Midtown station.

Marlow’s Tavern Midtown: 950 West Peachtree Street; 404-815-0323.

Homemade Ice Cream For a Cause

Don't let this yummy opportunity melt away; come for the market and stay on! Slow Food Atlanta and the Peachtree Road Farmers Market are a dipping duo as they host their 2009 Ice Cream Competition on Saturday, June 27 from noon until 1 p.m. in the garden of the Cathedral of St. Philip on Peachtree Road. Taste all of the ice cream submissions and vote for your favorite ice cream, homemade the old-fashioned way with maybe, just maybe, a funky modern twist on flavors. Ice cream makers include amateurs and renowned local chefs, including Ron Eyester (Food 101 Morningside), Jake Rothschild (Jake's Ice Cream), Shaun Doty (Shaun's), Cynthia Wong (Cakes & Ale), Ford Fry (JCT. Kitchen & Bar) and Chrysta Umberger (Restaurant Eugene). Tickets are $10 per person (children under five are free) and will allow ticket holders to taste each flavor and submit a vote for the winner. Proceeds benefit Slow Food Atlanta and the Peachtree Road Farmers Market. Purchase tickets online or at the Peachtree Road Farmers Market Saturday morning. Interested ice cream makers should contact Judith Winfrey to complete registration. For more information about this event, email Meryl Arnett or call her at 770-503-6063.

P.S--Word on the street is that Meryl makes some tasty ice cream and will be competing; don't miss out!

It's Time to Toast Summer at Aqua blue

Celebrate the first real weekend of summer at Aqua blue's Summer Wine Festival starting at 6 p.m. this Friday night, June 26. Come try a selection of 12 new wines from the chic Roswell restaurant's Wine Spectator award-winning list, matched with bite-sized appetizers from their mouthwatering menu. While you're sipping and supping, enjoy the live music of Michael King starting at 7 p.m. and view artwork by Kimberly Ashman and photography by Ella de Amicis. $30 per person, not including tax or gratuity. Reservations are requested; call 770-643-8886. Aqua blue: 1564 Holcomb Bridge Road; 770-643-8886.

Ormsby's Is Where You'll Want to Hang Out

So, I'm not going to tell you how long I've known Warren Bruno. Let's just say I have more than one Aunt Charley's Peachtree Road Race t-shirt in my drawer.

If you don't remember Aunt Charley's, I'm sure you know Atkins Park. Warren is the guy who started both places, as he puts it, "as the kind of bar I wanted to hang out in." Lucky, lucky us that he's at it again. There's not much to tell yet, but Ormsby's is set to open in late September under Room & Board in the White Provision building.

Trust me that if Warren wants to hang out there, then so will you! If you ask him to describe it he'll say, "it's a good place to be." That sounds like my kind of place. No word yet on whether there will be t-shirts ....

The Gods of Chocolate

Pacci provided unofficial mascots for the Chocolate! 2009 fundraiser last night. Chef Keira Mortiz sprayed her bravest servers in real chocolate and put them on display for a crowd of 800+. They served mini s'mores covered in chocolate...one of the many decadent treats I indulged in last night.

Chef Kein of Aqua blue whipped up Kahlua laced chocolate mousse and

Rathbun's baked little chocolate bread puddings and served them in chocolate milk.

The night was as beautiful as the chocolate desserts.

The Cystic Fibrosis Foundation successfully hosted the ninth annual fundraiser,Keira successfully painted her servers in chocolate, and I successfully ate a completely chocolate supper.

Gotta Keep Hardy at the Top!

Those people over at Murphy-Goode just can't get enough of a good thing. We're gonna cut them some slack since we want our man Hardy to get that job, but darnit, decide already! So, here's the latest. Tomorrow, the most recent voting deadline, they are going to take the top 50 vote getters and, yep, you guessed it, start the voting again! Hardy's been consistently up near the top but if you still haven't voted in this round, please be sure you do. The link is on his blog.

Btw, Hardy and Andres were on their first glass of Murphy-Goode in this photo. Imagine what happened later.

Tailapalooza at Aqua blue

Aqua blue is making it A-OK to arrive for the tail end of dinner this month with their June Lobster Tailabalooza. The Roswell restaurant will offer three special combinations featuring cold water grilled lobster tails throughout the month of June with such reasonable prices that guests will want to jump right in. The three-tail combo ($31) includes three lobster tails with three sauces -- lemon and garlic butter, mango and pineapple salsa and beer BBQ sauce. The two-tail combo ($23) comes with lemon and garlic butter and mango and pineapple salsa. Subtract a tail and add a filet mignon for the tail and turf combo ($28) that comes with lemon and garlic butter. Roasted red potatoes and corn on the cob come with each combination, and tax and gratuity are not included. Don't forget to check out the restaurant's spacious patio for a sunset meal!

Aqua blue: 1564 Holcomb Bridge Road in Roswell; 770-643-8886.

Ditch the Diet at Chocolate! 2009

On a summer diet? Well forget all about it tomorrow night at the 9th Annual Chocolate! 2009 event, benefiting the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. This is the one event where it's perfectly acceptable to eat as much chocolate as humanly possible! Funds raised at this annual indulgence will go straight to cystic fibrosis research and treatment. More than 1,000 chocoholics are expected to attend the event at Villa Christina, which also features a full dinner buffet, two live bands and a silent auction. Chefs from Aqua blue, Bold American Events & Catering, Kozmo Gastro Pub and Pacci Ristorante, plus other top bakers, chefs, vintners and caterers will whip up a plethora of chocolate delicacies. Tickets for the 6 - 10 p.m. event are $65 in advance and $75 at the door and may be purchased online or by calling 404-325-6973.

Chocolate! 2009 hopes to raise $100,000 net profit for cystic fibrosis research. Since its start in 1955, the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation has worked to find a cure for the aggressive disease and to improve quality of life for those with CF. As a result, the median survival age for people with CF has doubled from 18 years to the early 30s.

Get Turned On To Fabulous Wines For Less Than $15 A Bottle

Woodfire Grill Wine Director Nick Quiñones has searched the globe for wine values and brought home eight wonderful wines that retail for under $15 each. Bring $10 for a tasting tomorrow Wednesday, June 17 from 6-9 p.m.- it is a value tasting, after all.
Reserve your spot by contacting nick@woodfiregrill.com or calling Woodfire Grill at 404-347-9055. Woodfire Grill: 1782 Cheshire Bridge Road; 404-347-9055

A Really Goode Toast to Hardy at Aria

We will drink to that! Join us tomorrow night at Aria and toast Hardy Wallace from Dirty South Wine to show support during his application process to get A Really Goode Job with Murphy-Goode Winery. If you haven't already, check out his video and vote to keep Hardy in the top!

Don't Forget About Fifth Group Restaurants' Loyalty Program

Join Fifth Group Restaurants’ Frequent Guest Rewards loyalty program and earn a point for every dollar you spend (including tax and gratuity) at one of their restaurants: Ecco, La Tavola Trattoria, South City Kitchen Midtown, South City Kitchen Vinings or The Original El Taco. Additionally, you’ll earn 250 points every time you dine at three different Fifth Group restaurants in a consecutive 60-day period. Don't forget about the cool complimentary entrée you receive on your birthday and enrollment anniversary ($40 value), as well as invitations to members-only restaurant events. There’s no annual fee. A one-time charge of $15 upon enrollment is completely refunded to you as soon as you dine at one of Fifth Group’s restaurants using one of your registered debit or credit cards. Fifth Group tracks your points so you don’t have to carry around one of those pesky punch cards.

Redeem your points for Fifth Group Restaurants dining cards for restaurant meals; a day as a chef’s apprentice with one-on-one lessons; a custom-created five-course dinner; vintage wines; an exclusive hors d’oeuvre and cocktail party for 20 people; or a private four-course wine dinner for 30 people! Read complete details online.

Fifth Group Restaurants:Ecco: 40 7th Street, NE; 404-347-9555. La Tavola Trattoria: 992 Virginia Avenue, NE; 404-873-5430. South City Kitchen Midtown: 1144 Crescent Avenue; 404-873-7358.South City Kitchen Vinings: 1675 Cumberland Parkway; 770-435-0700.The Original El Taco: 1186 North Highland Avenue, NE; 404-873-4656.

Frozen Lemonade at Panera

For each frozen lemonade purchased at Panera today, $1 is donated to Children's Healthcare of Atlanta. Not to mention, it's the perfect refreshment for a hot day!

Be sure to stop by a location of Panera not only to pick up a frozen lemonade, but also to try some of the new menu items that are being passed out as free samples!



To find an Atlanta-area Panera near you visit their website.

Eclipse di Luna Gives Parents a Lunch Break

Help Children's Healthcare of Atlanta by Chilling Out with New Frozen Lemonade at Panera

Need to beat the heat and refuel on Thursday, June 11? Pull in to one of Atlanta’s 21 Panera Bread bakery-cafes between 6 a.m. and 9 p.m. to cool off with free samples of Panera’s new for summer chopped Cobb salad, their beloved strawberry poppyseed salad and frozen drinks like the low-fat strawberry smoothie, frozen lemonade or frozen mocha. What's even cooler is that on this day, $1 from each frozen lemonade purchased at any Atlanta-area Panera location on will go toward sending Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta pediatric patients to summer camp. And if you haven't heard yet, Panera just earned top spots in Zagat’s fast food survey released on June 8 – including Most Popular large restaurant concept, Best Salads and Best Healthiest Options.

To find a Panera Bread location near you, visit www.panera.com.

Flicks on Fifth in WaterHaven's Courtyard

You know it's summer when Flicks on Fifth starts back. It's the next best thing to the Starlight!

Tomorrow night is the first one and they are showing Quantum of Solace. Grab a friend (or two) and head over to WaterHaven early for the best spot. There are lots of options. You can get a $10 "box lunch" with a sandwich, pasta salad, cookie and drink to take to the courtyard and dine on your favorite blanket picnic-style. Or, you can pay $25 and see the movie on a private screen on WaterHaven's patio. This includes an appetizer, entree, glass of wine or beer, and soft drinks. Oh, and parking is free either way.

The show starts when it gets dark, so about 9 p.m. Happy Summer!

Sushi in the RA

This Friday, I was in a sushi-state-of-mind. I have been craving some delectable sushi and hadn't found a good time to get out. Luckily, I had the chance to attend RA Sushi's friends and family dinner. My fellow diner and I spared no calories in the process and hence checked out a wide variety of items off of the menu. Check out some of my favorite menu items!


The Spinach Gyoza was just the beginning for us, but I loved these spicy pot stickers. The sesame-mustard sauce that accompanied gave the perfect hint of heat.


The Viva Las Vegas Roll was my favorite of the night. As one of RA Sushi's signature menu items it isn't your traditional roll, but it is VERY tasty! Paired with my Sea Monkey martini--there was no disappointment here!

RA Sushi is open to the public today and is open seven days a week from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. with a late night menu available until midnight.

Georgia Organics Night at Pizza Fusion

Join Georgia Organics for a green pizza party TONIGHT! Member and supporter Pizza Fusion is hosting a Georgia Organics night from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. with 10% of all proceeds supporting the organization. Enjoy organic pizza, beer, giveaways and get information on eating locally.

Pizza Fusion is located in the Astoria at the Aramore building, 2233 Peachtree Road. Free parking is available behind the restaurant.

Live Music Makes Me Happy

Having live music at a restaurant is kinda like having chocolate sauce on your ice cream. Not a necessity, but it sure does make it better. I have really enjoyed some good music this spring, including a recent spur-of-the-moment trip to the 40 Watt Club in Athens. Something about this time of year makes me want to listen, sing and, yes, dance. Here's a quick run-down of some good places to catch some tunes and add a little something extra to your night!

• Salsa, Latin jazz and acoustic guitar rotate through the week -- seven days a week -- at Eclipse di Luna - Miami Circle.


• JCT. Kitchen & Bar takes it to the terrace for live music from 6 – 9 p.m. every Thursday and in the bar on Friday and Saturday nights beginning at 8 p.m.


• Marlow’s Tavern makes music all over town with live music everywhere except Midtown.


• At Marlow’s in Alpharetta, John Oswald plays Thursday nights from 8 – 11 p.m.


• In Marlow's Duluth, Andrew Black takes on Friday nights from 10 p.m. until 1 a.m., and Andy Birdsall entertains Saturdays from 9 p.m. until midnight.


• Local acoustic favorites are popular Thursday and Friday nights from 8 – 11 p.m. at Marlow’s Tavern Northlake.


• There’s a full musical agenda at Marlow’s in Vinings: Under the Porch plays Tuesday nights from 8 – 11:30 p.m.; Andy Birdsall and Dave Onorato take over Wednesdays from 8:30 p.m. – 1 a.m.; Eric Hinton and Troy Rushing perform Thursdays from 8:30 p.m. – 1 a.m.; Nelson Brownstone plays Fridays from 9 p.m. – 1:30 a.m.; Jason Fulton and Troy Rushing cover Saturdays from 9 p.m. – 1:30 a.m.; and Galen Crader finishes the week on Sundays from 8 – 11 p.m.


• Up in Kennesaw, Marlow’s Tavern has live music Fridays and Saturdays from 7 – 11 p.m.

An Evening At Aria

Yesterday evening I joined the American Institute of Food and Wine for their monthly meet up at Aria. The vibe in the lounge was relaxed yet cool and my glass of Schwarzbock, a white wine from Austria, was fabulous. We nibbled on toasted brioche topped with capers and hard boiled egg and bite sized open-face BLTs. Gerry Klaskala also treated us to short rib on focaccia buns and spring rolls with laughing bird shrimp and vegetables. Aria's menu is especially tempting now that they give guests in the bar 20% off their entire food bill. This generous offer is available Monday through Saturday from open until close.

Aria is located at 490 East Paces Ferry Road in Buckhead. Operating hours are 6 p.m. to 10 p.m., and valet parking is available. For reservations and additional information, call
404-233-7673 or visit www.aria-atl.com.

Kozmo on the Cover

Kozmo Gastro Pub in Johns Creek has landed the June cover of Alpharetta magazine and they are celebrating! Tomorrow night, the new Alpharetta eatery is throwing a party to mark this exciting occasion and also launch their new Thursday ladies' night! There will be a live band from 7-10 p.m. and a DJ from 10 p.m.-2 a.m. Kozmo's contemporary comfort foods, shi-shi Kozmo-politans and other classic cocktails make for a fulfilling girls' night out close to home!

Kozmo Gastro Pub: 11890 Douglas Road, Suite 105; 678-526-6094.

Welcome Your Neighborhood EVOS!

Back in 1994, three guys were driving around Florida in a hot car, craving burgers and fries, but dreading the aftershock those greasy, not-so-healthy burgers and fries would wreak on their systems. A few miles down the road, the idea for EVOS® was born. They still didn't have a place for lunch, but they had an evolutionary idea about low fat, fast food eating that spread like ketchup. Getting right to the low-fat meat of the matter, EVOS will open in The Prado on Roswell Road on Friday, June 5.



Eating at EVOS is healthy for you and for the environment. The guys at EVOS are glad to explain without getting preachy. When you choose burgers, wraps, salads, soups and shakes from the menu, you get 50-70 percent less fat, 100 percent pure taste. Meats are slow-roasted, and Airfries are Airbaked so there are no greasy grills or dirty oils to pollute your veins or municipal drains. Meats are humanely raised, antibiotic and hormone free; Certified Organic and Fair Trade Certified ingredients are used wherever possible. Steakburgers are made from prime cuts of beef (not grab-bag cuts), and fresh "fruitshakes" blend organic fruits and juices, organic milk and a complementary multivitamin supplement. Vegetarian and vegan options abound. And, since the founders have kids of their own, the Healthy Kids menu stars tasty, healthy foods instead of cheap, shiny toys.




The Friday, June 5, EVOS will be open daily from 11 a.m. - 10 p.m. at 5590 Roswell Road, NE; 404-252-4022.

Wine Tasting at Eclipse di Luna!

Eclipse di Luna at Miami Circle hosts a wine tasting the first Tuesday of each month and you know that means. The tasting for June is tomorrow! From 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. the restaurant offers wines tastes with appetizers for only $10. This is such an awesome deal that you should go ahead and mark your calendar for the rest of the year! Located in Buckhead at 764 Miami Circle; 404-846-0449.

Atlanta Knows Brunch!

I love brunch-- I truly believe a perfect weekend begins with a scrumptious brunch and giant cup of coffee. So this weekend, sleep in a tad then rise and shine because here are some places for you to go, dishes for you to eat and drinks for you to tilt at these weekend brunch destinations.

Enjoy a classic Italian-style brunch? Begin your morning at La Tavola Trattoria in Virginia Highland. Enjoy a range of items from house-made challah French toast; chicken sausage with potato-leek hash and spicy cherry pepper chutney; poached eggs with warm bruschetta, crispy pancetta and sautéed spinach; stuffed egg “cannelloni” and many more options.

Need to get out of the city? Head up to the mountains--Wolf Mountain that is! Monthly themes and seasonal finds reward those who head for the hills to Sunday’s brunch buffet at Wolf Mountain Vineyards & Winery outside Dahlonega. This month’s Seafood Festival is net-worthy! You’ll definitely want to add a glass or bottle of Wolf Mountain’s European estate-style wines. Reservations are required so plan in advance for either the 12:30 p.m. or 2:30 p.m. seating; call 706-867-9862.

Wearing your Sunday’s best? Check out the new Pacci Ristorante adjacent to the chic new Hotel Palomar. Brunch is a Saturday and Sunday affair here and is served from 8 a.m. until 2 p.m. both days.

If you need to add a little spice to your weekend, check out Uncle Julio’s Casa Grande! Prepare for an egg-ceptionally lively at brunch on Saturdays and Sundays from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. Eggs are king on the menu, scrambled and peppered with Mexican flair.

Look out over Piedmont Park from your perch at The Nook . . . if you can peel your eyes off the scrumptious menu! Wander around the farmer’s market on Sunday in the park and run over here to complete your morning by parking yourself on the porch!

Panera is a popular meeting place for brunch favorites anytime of day. The variety of bagels and cream cheese flavors keeps everyone smiling. On the bakery menu, pastries and sweets, granola parfaits, baked egg soufflés and bagel sandwiches join the parade of freshly baked breads that smell heavenly and taste even more divine. Can’t stay? Grab brunch to go!

Marlow’s Tavern is another easy choice for Sunday brunch, especially with six locations around Atlanta. Order from the brunch menu at Marlow’s Alpharetta, and don’t forget your $14.99 bottomless mimosa! In Duluth, Marlow’s offers a brunch menu and $3 mimosas (per glass). Marlow’s Midtown, Northlake and Kennesaw spread out full brunch buffets for $14.99 per person and pour bottomless mimosas for $15 each. And Marlow’s Vinings also sets forth a sumptuous full buffet for $14.99 for west siders.

Vote For Your Favorite Atlanta Restaurants

Support your favorite Atlanta restaurants by voting in Jezebel Magazine's 100 Best Restaurants survey. There are many categories including best dessert, best outdoor patio, best presentation and best power lunch so none of your favorites will be left out. Click here to vote!

And The Winner Is...

Congratulations to Doug Hines!!! Doug won the Kenny Chesney prize pack from Kozmo Gastro Pub, which includes dinner for two, two tickets to the May 28 Kenny Chesney concert at the Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre and a VIP parking pass for the event. (Click here for original post.)

Keep checking back with us for more opportunities like this. Again, congrats to Doug, have fun watching Kenny!!

Taste Spanish and Italian White Wines at Woodfire Grill Tomorrow

Co-Owner and Wine Director Nicolas Quinones of Woodfire Grill will host a wine tasting tomorrow, May 27 featuring Spanish and Italian whites. The floral, crisp whites are perfect for warm summer months we have ahead. Guests will taste Albariño, Verdejo, Soave, Pinot Grigio, Vermentino, Viura and others from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m for $15 per person. What I love most about the tastings at Woodfire Grill (besides the nice price point) is the fact that you can enjoy from wherever you sit - bar top, table in the dining room or even on the patio. It's as simple as that. Call the restaurant at 404-347-9055 for reservations. Located at 1782 Cheshire Bridge Road.

They are on facebook, too!

Mmmmmm Chocolate! 2009

In less than a month, Atlanta’s top bakers, chefs, vintners and caterers will come together and create chocolate delights for The Cystic Fibrosis Foundation's ninth annual fundraiser.The sinful event will take place on Thursday, June 18 at Villa Christina.

Contributing restaurants this year include:

Aqua Blue

Bold American Events & Catering

Canoe

City Grill

Dailey’s

Dantanna’s

JD Rothschild & Co.

Jim ‘N Nick’s BBQ

Kheesekakes by Kelli

Kozmo Gastro Pub

Max Lager’s Wood-Fired Grille & Brewery

Pacci Ristorante

Rathbun’s

Silk Restaurant

The Capital Grille

The Dining Room at the Ritz Carlton-Buckhead

The Land of 1,000 Hills Coffee

The Melting Pot

Veni Vidi Vici

Villa Christina

Wildfire

The team at Melissa Libby and Associates is proud to support and attend this annual event. The exclusive evening features two live bands, a chocolate martini bar, a chocolate lager and a chocolate cappuccino tasting, full dinner buffet, silent auction and, of course, all-you-can-eat chocolate treats. To purchase tickets, visit http://www.chocolateforcf.org/.

~~ GIVEAWAY ALERT~~ Kozmo Gastro Pub Giving Away Kenny Chesney Tickets!!!

Country music fans, listen up: Kozmo Gastro Pub in Johns Creek has a special treat! Everyone who dines at the restaurant from Friday, May 22 and until Wednesday, May 27, 2009 will be entered to win a Kenny Chesney prize pack. The pack includes dinner for two at the restaurant on the day of the concert (May 28, 2009 at 8 p.m.), two tickets to the concert and a VIP parking pass at the Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre for the show.

The winner will be announced Wednesday, May 27 via phone and Facebook. Be sure to become a fan of Kozmo if you have not already! Send them a message on Facebook for more information.

Good Luck, and be sure to try the house poutine when you go!

A New Fish Coming to Town!

This is Gil. He's with RA Sushi and here's here to tell you that there's a new fish in town!

RA Sushi is opening June 8 in Midtown and it's going to be awesome. I took a tour recently and was blown away by how big and pretty the space was. It's two stories but the upstairs overlooks the downstairs so it's really open. The decor just screams "have fun" and I'm looking forward to doing just that. This is no stuffy sushi joint - MF is safe. This is a place to meet friends after work, have some great drinks, yummy apps, and fun.

Gil and I will see you there!

Dogwood Offers New Bloom Plate Special

Tuesday through Friday Dogwood restaurant's Bloom Plate Special blossoms at lunch or dinner with three courses for $25. This includes a choice of any soup or salad, the daily entrée and a choice of dessert. We've listed daily entrées here so you can plan your week accordingly: Tuesday - half roasted chicken with new potatoes, asparagus and natural jus; Wednesday - Southern-fried catfish served with creamy yellow grits and pimentos topped with fresh herb tartar sauce; Thursday - Kobe beef meatloaf with buttermilk-bacon smashed potatoes and squash casserole; Friday - prime rib with sweet corn pudding and buttermilk-horseradish whipped potatoes. (This special deal cannot be combined with any other offers or coupons).

Also, don't forget about Dogwood's "Toss Up Tuesday and Thursday." There's a 50/50 chance that the appetizers you order at the bar are on the house!

Dogwood: In the Reynolds condominium building at 565 Peachtree Street, Suite A; 404-835-1410.

Malbec Tasting at Morton's Downtown

Last night, Morton's Downtown hosted its "Greetings from Argentina: Malbec Tasting." The event ran from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m., and I have to say it was a little more than just a "tasting". The bartender poured pretty full glasses of each wine, and the wine importer himself was there to answer questions. Morton's passed around cheese and crackers, scallops with apricot chutney, sliced tenderloin with a Chimichurri sauce and Morton's miniature Legendary Hot Chocolate Cakes. YUM! There's another malbec tasting tomorrow night, May 20, at the Buckhead location - I may have to make it to that one too!

Tuesday Trivia at The Nook

Not only will The Nook, On Piedmont Park begin hosting Tuesday night Trivia tomorrow, but the restaurant just started serving Fat Tire Beer! Trivia starts at 8 p.m. and Fat Tire is served all day long. Gotta love it! The fun happens at 1144 Piedmont Avenue, NE in Midtown; 404-745-9222.