Another Reason I'm Glad I'm Southern: Chess Pie Recipe

When you grow up with such deliciousness as chess pie you tend to take it for granted. Much to my surprise I recently learned that many of my friends had never had this wonderful, sugary treat. Seems it's a Southern thing. That led me to ask my mother for a recipe to share. She had a blast looking through all her versions to find my great-grandmother Tootie's version. She said she found coconut and pineapple chess pies, one that called for Damson preserves and a meringue on top (as if it isn't rich enough!), and one that called for "1/2 eggshell" milk!

Here's Tootie's version. It's soooo easy that I might even try it myself!

CHESS PIE

1/3 c. butter
1 c. sugar
2 eggs
2 T cornmeal
2 T milk
1 tsp. vanilla
Sprinkle of nutmeg

Cream butter & sugar; add cornmeal. Add eggs, one at a time; add milk. Add vanilla & nutmeg.
Pour mixture into readymade piecrust, either homemade or purchased.
Bake 375 degrees until brown.

(thanks to RoadFood for the photo that looks most like the ones I remember)

It's Follow Friday! Meet our Tweep of the Week @WineKulers

Sometimes the world of wine can be a tricky one to navigate...  Do I want something oaky? Something floral? Something lush? Or do I just choose the coolest label??

Luckily for you, our tweep of the week Gil Kulers keeps followers and readers on the straight and narrow when choosing the best wine to fill your glass. Between his tweets and his AJC & Golf Digest Index columns, he’s a great guide and stays away from any stereotypical wine pretentiousness. Cheers to @WineKulers!

Georgia Organics "Reclaiming Agriculture" just around the corner

For those of you who have a green thumb or want to learn about farm fresh foods will be delighted to find out that “Reclaiming Agriculture,” Georgia Organics’ 13th annual conference is coming to Athens, GA the weekend of February 19-20. Take part in all the garden-fresh offerings, including tours of farms, ag research stations, gardens and restaurants; presentations and exhibits; workshops and classes on everything from composting to cheese making; and local meals and a “Farmers Feast” featuring keynote speaker Carlo Petrini founder of the Slow Food movement, the “international face of joyful eating and agricultural insight.” Last year’s conference in Decatur topped more than 1,100 attendees from 14 states and nearly every county in Georgia. For the first time ever, the exhibitor’s expo area will be open to the public. Athens is planning film, music and food events to complement the conference. UGA students get a perk -- discounted student rates to attend conference classes.

ServeHAITI Fundraiser at Toulouse

On Tuesday, February 9, Toulouse Restaurant offers a great chance to combine fine wine, fine art and a good cause by hosting a Steve Penley Wine Dinner to benefit the ServeHAITI Foundation. The dinner will feature a five-course meal with two glasses of wine and the chance to meet artist Steve Penley and view his artwork.

Throughout the evening, you'll be able to view and purchase Penley’s paintings, reproduction posters and book with illustrations, as well as view photographs of Haiti from Donna Williams, a photographer who has been working with ServeHAITI. Meet the artist and get books autographed starting at 6:30 p.m. and be ready for dinner by 7:15 p.m. The menu will feature a field green salad with red wine vinaigrette; seared scallops served with broccoli and sundried tomatoes in a rosemary-citrus reduction; wild mushroom ravioli atop arugula sprinkled with gorgonzola cheese, cranberries and pistachios drizzled with a white balsamic sauce; beef tenderloin filet with mushroom cream sauce coupled with grilled salmon in a balsamic beurre blanc; and flourless chocolate cake with chocolate glaze for dessert. The cost is $125 per person and includes tax and gratuity. A portion of the art proceeds as well as a sizeable portion of the nightly proceeds will be donated to the ServeHAITI Foundation. To make a reservation, please call 404-351-9533.

Simply The Best - Metromix Releases Winner List

The votes have been counted and the verdict is in!

This morning, Metromix released the winners of their “Best of Atlanta” contest… and we’re quite excited to see that Woodfire Grill won Best Restaurant and their executive chef/ co-owner/ Top Chef fan favorite Kevin Gillespie won Best Chef! It’s been an exciting year for Woodfire Grill and we’re excited to see what they’ll cook up next.

We're in Love...with the Fish Tacos at Uncle Julio's!

Since it’s the season for love at first bite, we thought you should know about the yummy new fish tacos that will be making an appearance at Uncle Julio's Fine Mexican Food come Monday, February 8: white corn tortillas filled with tilapia, shredded cabbage, carrots and pico de gallo, drizzled with tangy avocado cream sauce and served with black beans. You can get the grilled fish version every day or visit the restaurant on Thursdays and Sundays to snag the fried fish version. At lunchtime, the fish tacos come two to a plate for $8.95; at dinner they’re $11.95 for three tacos.

Uncle Julio's Fine Mexican Food: In Buckhead at 1860 Peachtree Road, NW; 404-350-6767. To-go line: 404-974-2991. In Sandy Springs at 1140 Hammond Drive, NE, Building K, Suite 100; 678-736-8260. To-go line: 404-974-2991.

The Day of Love Lurks Around the Corner

Valentine’s Day is almost here (just 19 days away) and even if you’re not a big fan of the lovey-dovey holiday, Atlanta restaurants have some cool options lined up this year. Whether you’re looking for intimate evening for two or a singles celebration, we’ve got the low-down on this year’s Valentine’s Day deals. Click here for all the information.

Lights! Camera! Flickr at RA Sushi!

They say that a picture is worth a thousand words… make it true with your very own entry in RA Sushi’s “It’s A Hot Mess” Flickr contest starting today until February 28th, and you could walk away with a $100 gift certificate to RA, or a complimentary appetizer card! Just head to RA for their new delicious Hot Mess roll (featuring crispy rice balls topped with spicy king crab mix, baked and finished with jalapenos and cilantro, and strike a pose!

There are four equally fun photo challenges you can aim for: “Hottest Hot Mess,” “Messiest Hot Mess,” “Biggest Hot Mess,” and those with the creative bug can try for “Anything Goes!” Encourage your friends to comment on your picture on Flickr and you could be well on your way to victory and fame – in addition to the prize, winning photos will also go up on their Facebook page.

Extra bonus: during the contest, RA Sushi is having Hot Mess Mondays, where you can share this tasty dish for just $10! Now get to snapping…

Weekend Must-Do: "Beat It" To Center Stage tonight!

We know we usually focus on bringing you the latest culinary news. But it’s Friday, and we could all use a little boogie in our step after this busy winter week, so we’ll digress for a moment about a special duo of events coming up in the next few days!
It’s been less than a year since the King of Pop made his exit from our world, and audiences everywhere were glad that the film “Michael Jackson’s This Is It” gave us all a last glimpse into his world. Tonight, you can celebrate his legacy of music (and get your moonwalk on) at Center Stage Atlanta with Who’s Bad – the ultimate Michael Jackson cover band!
And in an extra special deal for you Michael fans, you can take your ticket stubs from the concert to the Brookhaven Blockbuster for their “This Is It” DVD release party on Monday night between 9 and midnight, and win a prize! There will also be dance lessons for classic routines to Jacko’s hits from Dance101’s Desiree Nathanson, and a glove (and coat) drive held by Atlanta Coats Of Love going on. For more about either event, check out Center Stage Atlanta and the Blockbuster event page. Who’s bad, indeed!

Follow Friday: Our Tweep Of The Week @ATLCheap

Everybody is looking for a way to save a buck or two where they can these days, and Jennifer Maciejewski brings Atlantans a way to hold on to their money and still have fun in the big city practically every day. We love that!

Whether it’s a museum exhibit ticket deal or a way to eat out for less you’re looking for these days, you’ll definitely want to follow her on twitter and keep up with her blog for the best tips on keeping your hard-earned cheddar securely in your wallet!

It's Sublime

Between RA Sushi and Noon Midtown I spend more time than is healthy at the 1010 Midtown building. RA Sushi has become my go to spot for post-work cocktails and delish sushi dinners - seriously, go try the Tootsy Maki and then just try not to go back... But, Noon Midtown has become my favorite spot for breakfast meetings. I love the central location and easy parking, but what I really love is that now I can get my Sublime Doughnuts fix while I'm there. Yep, you heard right; Noon Midtown offers Sublime Doughnuts (ahem, AND Counter Culture coffee) so there is really no excuse to go anywhere else in the mornings. After my breakfast of sugar and caffeine, I'm happy to stay the day working off of Noon's free Wi-Fi until I'm hungry for lunch and then it's hellllloooo roast beef sandwich! Can you beat a day like that?

A festival for feathers?

Do you love chicken, turkey, duck, hen or any other type of feathered meats? If you said yes, then you're in for a treat because it's time for Featherfest 2010. Nearly 40 Atlanta restaurants are taking part in the friendly culinary competition during the week of January 22 - 27 by creating egg-ceptional appetizers, entrées and desserts using poultry meat or eggs. Tweet, cluck or sweetly henpeck your wingman or roost mates to fly the coop and alight with you at participating nests of nourishment, including Ray's in the City, Truva and Fifth Group Restaurants'® Ecco, La Tavola Trattoria, South City Kitchen Midtown and The Original El Taco.

So grab your knife and fork and feel free to join me when I chow down on some of my fallen feathered friends.

Mark Your Calendar: Unite For Haiti!

If you’re like me, the images I’ve seen in the past week from Haiti’s devastation have tugged at my heart in an intense way, and it’s easy to feel helpless when you’re so far removed. This Saturday from 6 to 9 p.m., Atlantans will have an opportunity to help, through a great fundraiser Unite For Haiti! being held at Aurum Lounge in Midtown.

Your check or cash donations get you in the door and will be given to Care International, Partners In Health, and Save The Children. All money raised at the party will be given to these very worthy organizations who are helping in big ways in Haiti.

DJ Y will be keeping the crowd entertained, as will the delicious nibbles from favorite Atlanta restaurants. There will also be a can’t-miss raffle featuring great prizes from fantastic local business like Spice Market, Decatur Yoga, Decatur CD, The W Midtown and more. For more information, check out their Facebook event page. It’s going to be a long road to recovery for Haiti and every penny counts!

What Does Dunwoody Taste Like?

Circle Feb. 5 on your calendar so you can be at the W Perimeter to sample Dunwoody's finest fare. Not only will you be nibbling your way through 25 restaurants' specialties, but it's a benefit for Children's Healthcare of Atlanta to boot. It's always a sell-out event so buy your Taste of Dunwoody tickets this week! The new Uncle Julio’s Fine Mexican Food in Sandy Springs and Roswell’s upscale Aqua blue will be there. Details: 7 – 10:30 p.m. on Friday, February 5 at the W Atlanta Perimeter. Cash bar. Silent Auction. Live music by RELIX . Contact Julianna Rue or call 404-785-7337.

Get Three Courses of Comfort for Only $35 at Ray's Restaurants

Come in from the cold to Ray's Restaurants (Ray's on the River, Ray's in the City and Ray's Killer Creek) where you can warm up with Ray’s Wonderful Winter dinner menu for a sizzling price of $35 per person. This definitely beats curling up on the couch with hot cocoa and a Snuggie! Choose a selection from each of the three menu courses. Start with a soup or salad, with options such as crab bisque with aged sherry or Ray’s house salad. Then move on to the entrée course which features garlic shrimp penne pasta, a six-ounce petite filet, a 12-ounce New York strip or Chef Tom’s award-winning 10-ounce Niman Ranch Frenched bone pork chop. The sweet finale includes the classics: chocolate cake or crème brûlée. Wine is not included in the menu price, but wine pairings are suggested on the menu for those guests who would like to add them to the meal. Substitutions are not permitted for this prix fixe menu, and items cannot be split.

Ray’s on the River: 6700 Powers Ferry Road; 770-955-1187.
Ray’s Killer Creek: 1700 Mansell Road, Alpharetta; 770-649-0064.
Ray’s in the City: 240 Peachtree Street, NW; 404-524-9224.

Throwdown at Le Cordon Bleu Challenge

As a big Top Chef/ Iron Chef/ insert any cooking competition here fan, I was more than thrilled to be able to participate in the Le Cordon Bleu Challenge last week at their school in Tucker, Georgia! The event was held to celebrate the national re-naming of the Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts and to benefit Ronald McDonald House. And as it turns out, it’s just as much fun to participate in a challenge as it is to watch, even though I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t nervous.

We were given the challenge of creating Poulet Sauté aux Fines Herbes (Sautéed Chicken with Herbs) and lucky for me, I was paired with talented local chef Jeff Sigler from River Room, Fox 5’s Blaze, and quite a few VERY capable Le Cordon Bleu students who more than knew their way around the school’s huge restaurant kitchen. We got to work with the clock ticking down from 60 minutes as a hungry audience of more than 60 people watched and waited to judge our creations!

The dish our chef had in mind was inspired by a classic mirepoix combination – the celery, onion, carrot goodness that makes up every delicious chicken stock you’ve ever tasted. Our sautéed chicken sat atop an insanely good celery root cream, accompanied by pearl onions and shaved celery with pickled white beech mushroom salad. Some light and airy carrot foam (that yours truly whipped up) topped the dish off for a little extra flair.

Our hands were flying over pots and pans as the timer quickly counted down… I felt the true sense of stress and urgency the contestants on those shows feel as I piped the last of the celery root cream into our samples for the audience! Luckily, the audience enjoyed our flavor combinations – and our team walked away with the 1st place “Bleu” Ribbon! I’ll have a special sense of appreciation now when I’m watching other challenges, and will always remember my one night as a Le Cordon Bleu chef.

Cast Your Vote

It’s election time at Metromix, with a full ballot of "Best of" categories to be filled. Here are some of our prime picks: Morton's The Steakhouse -- Best Steak Restaurant; AltoRex -- Best Hotel Bar; Uncle Julio's Fine Mexican Food -- Best Margarita; Pacci Ristorante -- Best New Restaurant. We're also excited to see that Woodfire Grill snagged nominations in two categories: one for Best Restaurant and another for Kevin Gillespie for Best Local Chef. Take a look and make your picks today!

Follow Friday Tweep of The Week - @DatealiciousATL

Dating is hard enough in Atlanta without knowing where to go to make it both a special night and a fun time for all parties involved. That’s where our Tweep of the Week comes in to save the day!

Follow @Datealiciousatl and check out her blog to catch all of interior designer Lindsey’s Atlanta restaurant picks and pans. Her suggestions will help you find the best setting to get your love story off to a good start, or if it’s not a love match, you know at the least you’ll have a delicious meal!

Just in time to start planning your Valentines’ Day dates – now that’s amore.

Sneak Peek At Saskatoon

We got a chance to check out new Buckhead restaurant Saskatoon's progress yesterday and wanted to share it with all of you! It's looking great and we are very excited that it's opening soon. Can't wait to try their steak, wild game, and seafood dishes!

In the mood for a "Burger N' Beer"?

With the cold weather you may have decided that standing outside to grill burgers isn’t the warmest idea. If you’re still craving some burgers though, then I highly recommend you try JCT. Bar’s pimento cheese burger. For $10 you can get a “Burger N’ Beer” at JCT. This isn’t your usual college student deal with a budget Natty Light either. JCT.’s deal hooks you up with an ale from Brooklyn Brewery. The “Burger N’ Beer” deal goes on Tuesday through Thursday from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. so make sure to stop by. Just looking at this picture has my stomach grumbling for another one. Hurry up 5 p.m.!

JCT. Bar is located in Atlanta’s Westside Urban Market at 1198 Howell Mill Road, Suite 18, 30318.

Truva's $10 Lunch Buffet Brings Turkish Delight to Downtown Atlanta

Knowing our wallets need a break after all the holiday spending, Truva is serving up a financially feasible feast for Downtown lunchgoers. The new restaurant near Peachtree Center is now offering a $10 lunch buffet laden with a variety of Turkish dishes and salads. Guests also can order from the regular menu and even add the lunch buffet to any sandwich, flatbread or kebap order for $6. Lunch is served Monday through Friday from 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.

If you don't have a chance to leave your office for lunch, Truva is also a great place to grab drinks and appetizers after work. The spacious interior, friendly bartenders and exotic belly dancers make for a fun evening!

Truva is located at 60 Andrew Young International Boulevard, NE; 404-577-8788.

Saving Corks Adds More To Your Fork

I don't know about you but I have a gigantic vase full of saved wine corks sitting in my kitchen. I have no idea why I save corks I just do, but, happily, now my saved corks have a purpose thanks to Pacci Ristorante’s new Cork to Fork promotion. Midtown’s authentic Italian steakhouse is teaming up with ReCork America, an organization that reuses wine corks in everything from shoe soles, flooring, building insulation, automotive gaskets, bulletin boards, sports equipment and even soil conditioner. Pacci is asking patrons to bring in real corks from wine bottles and to buy a bottle of wine with their dinner. Pacci will deduct 2 percent off the total bill for every cork brought in up to a maximum of 20 percent off. I've got enough corks saved up to score 20 percent off on my next couple visits!

Most of us are already recycling our wine bottles at home; why not recycle those corks and save some dough at the same time? I'll be seeing you at Pacci - I'll be the one with a purse full of corks!

Eight Months Till Tomato Time

Brrr…. It’s cold outside! We’re only 11 days into January and I am already tired of this wintry weather. I’ve decided to thaw my thoughts out and think about summer and all the fun food events that come along with it. My favorite is the JCT. Kitchen & Bar "Attack of the Killer Tomato Festival"and although it’s still about eight months away (Sunday, August 8, 2010), some of Atlanta’s top chefs have already signed up to participate.

To date, the following chefs have signed on to brave the killer tomatoes:
Ford Fry of JCT. Kitchen & Bar; Kevin Gillespie of Woodfire Grill (and "Top Chef Las Vegas" fame!); Kevin Rathbun of Rathbun's, Krog Bar and Kevin Rathbun Steak; Anne Quatrano of Abattoir, Bacchanalia and Floataway Café; Gary Mennie of Livingston; and Carvel Grant Gould of Canoe.

JCT. Kitchen & Bar: In Atlanta's Westside Urban Market at 1198 Howell Mill Road, Suite 18; 404-355-2252.

Noon Midtown's Katie Birmingham on Atlanta & Company

The Metromix Meals segment we mentioned earlier this week is now up - take a few minutes to check out Katie reviewing two local restaurants, along with Chef Kevin Rathbun!

It’s Follow Friday! Meet Our Tweep of the Week – @MidtownMile

Subscribers of our weekly newsletter The Dish may have noticed a new addition to our line-up this year – Tweep of the Week! Each week, we will focus on one person on Twitter who is definitely worth a follow.

Our first Tweep of the Week was the vivacious @brokesocialite, and this week our Tweep of the Week goes to @midtownmile!

Shelbi Saine keeps one finger on the pulse of all things Midtown and another on Twitter, ready to reach out and fill you in on shopping, restaurants, jobs, events and more. You can also follow along at her blog for even more information about your favorite Midtown hotspots.

To make sure you get the latest Tweep of the Week in your inbox every Tuesday morning, along with the latest news in the Atlanta restaurant and culinary world, just sign up in the handy box here on our blog!

Is that an engagement ring on your finger?

The new year has just begun and if you're sporting a new ring on that special finger, then holiday bells are giving way to wedding bells. For soon-to-be brides and grooms intending to tie the knot in 2010, you'll want to save this useful info for planning pre-nuptial parties, rehearsal dinners, wedding receptions and all of those wedding social events.

For a list of restaurants to consider for wedding festivities, check out The Dish. Restaurants inside and outside the perimeter offer a plethora of ideas that are sure to delight each bridal party’s preferences.

Fifth Group Rocks at Hotel Help

Congratulations to Fifth Group Restaurants for winning the Concierge Society of Atlanta's "Affiliate of the Year" award for 2009. This award is a members' choice award and it goes to the affiliate member who best understands and supports the concierge of Atlanta. Whether it is hosting a business luncheon at Atlanta's iconic South City Kitchen for a visiting guest or coordinating a bachelorette's visit to the always rockin' El Taco, Atlanta's concierge know they can count on Fifth Group to make each visit spectacular, and, luckily for us, all of us in-town diners can count on Fifth Group to take care of us too. Affiliate of the year, indeed!

Katie Birmingham of Noon Midtown Talks Food Tomorrow on 11Alive's Atlanta & Co.

Get restaurant tips from the pros by watching Noon Midtown’s Owner/Chef Katie Birmingham on “Atlanta & Company’s” Metromix Meals segment airing around 11:45 a.m. on Wednesday, January 6. Katie will join Kevin Rathbun to discuss their favorite places to eat in Atlanta. If you miss Wednesday’s showing, catch the segment online the following day to hear Katie dish about where she eats when she’s not at her own restaurant.

To get a taste of Katie's cuisine, head to Noon Midtown, located at 1080 Peachtree Street, Suite 6, on Crescent Avenue between 11th and 12th streets; 404-496-4891.

Lunchtime Lotto at Pacci

It’s time to test your luck during lunch at Pacci Ristorante. The restaurant is now offering “Lunchtime Lotto” where guests receive a lotto ticket to scratch and see if they’ve won something nifty. Prizes include a weekend stay at the Hotel Palomar Atlanta – Midtown, a 50-inch plasma TV, an iPod, a cocktail party for eight at AltoRex Rooftop Lounge, dinner for two at Pacci, a $50 Pacci gift certificate or 20 percent off lunch at Pacci. Guests who fill out the back of their lotto card can turn it in and enter to win a three-day, two-night weekend trip to a Kimpton property of their choice in Atlanta, Miami, Chicago, Washington, D.C., Dallas or Vero Beach. This awesome getaway includes airfare, a bottle of champagne upon arrival, breakfast both mornings and dinner for two one evening.

Pacci Ristorante: 866 West Peachtree Street, NW; 678-412-2402

Don't Forget to Vote!

As you celebrate the end of the year with reflections of 2009 and champagne toasts towards 2010 be sure to take a moment to reflect on the Best of Atlanta - your fave restaurants, boutiques and salons. Then hop on over to Jezebel's online ballot and share your reflections with the rest of Atlanta!

Now is the time as tomorrow starts a whole NEW list of faves for 2010!

Happy New Year!

Places to watch all the bowl games

College football isn't over yet, but you may be wondering where you should go to watch all the bowl games. Here are some places I like to go to watch the game, enjoy some food and have some drinks while cheering on my team to victory.

All six Atlanta-area Marlow's Tavern locations are ready for you to settle in among friends for some awesome bowl game viewing on the big screens strategically placed in dining and bar areas. Once you're warmed up, enjoy some Big Bar Sandwiches: "infamous" fish tacos, buffalo chicken wrap and a prime rib French dip. Frosty brews, chilly cocktails, relaxing wines and crisp salads will help you keep your cool even when field action gets tense. Little football fans will cheer to see a kids' menu that leaves the typical fare in the locker room. (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.)

On New Year's Day, good old American football fills the screens on both levels of Uncle Julio's Fine Mexican Food in Dunwoody. Atlanta's second and newest Uncle Julio's was built with fans in mind...fans hungry for good views and filling authentic border-style dishes. The spacious, two-story cantina has bar areas and patios on both levels. Boost team "spirits" with Uncle Julio's famous margaritas such as the good uncle's "The Swirl" signature margarita. If the action's at your house or the clubhouse, Uncle Julio's has your back with full catering for 30 or more, catering express for 20 or more, party-packs for three - 20 guests or order from the full menu and get it to go. (1140 Hammond Drive, NE, Building K, Suite 100 in Sandy Springs; 678-736-8260. To-go line: 404-974-2991.)

Ormsby's has opened its doors in the White Provision complex on Atlanta's Westside, just in time to welcome football fans in for big-screen views, all-American tavern fare, spirited cocktails, wine, and a long list of unusual drafts and bottled beer. Try a bottle of Victory - Storm King for good luck or a Stone Ruination to dominate the field. Team jerseys are okay. Ormsby's is all about coming casual and coming often. Sit down and order up some Georgia peanuts, Cajun-spiced popcorn or house-made pickles. More substantial eats include meal-maker salads, a menu of bangers, links and wieners. During halftime, challenge your friends to a round of bocce, backgammon, pool, shuffleboard or darts. There's ample parking in the White Provision complex deck. (1170 Howell Mill Road, NW; 404-968-2033.)
In the Vinings neighborhood, South City Kitchen Vinings is the place to go for a new take on Southern classics. Grab a seat in the bar area for prime sports viewing and choose your potion from the wide selection of thirst-quenching libations. South City Kitchen Vinings is where you'll find fried green tomatoes, low and slow smoked pork BBQ, Maryland crab cakes, chilled Lowcountry pickled shrimp and butterbean "hummus" with toasted corn crackers. (1675 Cumberland Parkway; 770-435-0700.)

It’s Not Too Late to Make New Year’s Eve Plans

No need to stress, you still have time to set up something great for New Year’s Eve. Whether you’re looking for a four-course formal affair or a low-key evening filled with games and pub grub, the Atlanta restaurant scene has something for everyone. Visit Melissa Libby & Associates for a full list of New Year's options.

What To Do After New Year's Eve

Okay, you've finally made your plans for New Year's Eve. But wait! What about the next day? You know - when your head aches a little but you need sustenance before the games begin. Might we suggest Ray’s on the River? They are opening at 10 a.m. on New Year’s Day to serve a special brunch loaded with Ray’s traditional Sunday brunch items. Think omelet station where you tell the chef what you like best. A carving station. Fish and breakfast meats. Waffles, traditional breakfast items and an immense variety of desserts. And if you need a little hair of the dog, they will be happy to oblige. Served til 3 for you late sleepers.

Gladiators Invade Marlow's Tavern Duluth!

Everybody ready for the holidays yet? No?

Well, if you’re panicking looking for something fun to do with all those incoming family members on December 26th in the Duluth area, we’ve got you covered. Atlanta’s favorite minor league hockey team, the Gwinnett Gladiators, will be up against the South Carolina Stingrays at the Arena at Gwinnett Center at 7:05 p.m. After the game, four Gwinnett Gladiators will be heading to Marlow’s Tavern in Duluth for a post-game party, signing autographs and raffling off cool Gladiator gear!

Fans should head straight to Marlow’s to grab a spot as soon as the game is over, because the players will be arriving around 10 p.m. to get the party started! Marlow’s Tavern is located at 1950 Satellite Boulevard, #300.

We here at Atlanta Dish will be off tomorrow – we wish all of our readers a very merry Christmas! See you back here next week.

Still looking for what to do on New Year's Eve?

If you're like me, then you still haven't figured out what you're doing for New Year's Eve. Luckily there are options abound for whatever whets your palate. Here's a list of where you can begin the evening with a special dinner or to cheer in the New Year raising a champagne or "champagnarita" toast!

If you're in Buckhead then Aria has dreamed up a four-course prix fixe menu for $85 per person on New Year's Eve. Wine pairings will be available at an additional cost. For reservations, call the restaurant at 404-233-7673. (490 East Paces Ferry Road.)

Aqua blue has big plans for those ringing in the New Year outside the perimeter. For $59 per person, guests can choose from a variety of entrees on the night's prix fixe menu. Limited à la carte items also will be available. A DJ gets the party rolling at 9 p.m., along with party favors and a complimentary champagne toast. Seatings are available at 5:30 p.m., 7 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. For reservations, call 770-643-8886. (1564 Holcomb Bridge Road.)

Spirited or subdued? Whichever mood you choose for New Year's Eve, Fifth Group Restaurants® has a table for you. To make reservations, click here or call each restaurant directly. For cutting edge Southern cuisine, book a spot at South City Kitchen Midtown or South City Kitchen Vinings. Both restaurants will offer their full dinner menus as well as a New Year's Eve special from 5 - 10 p.m. (South City Kitchen Midtown: 1144 Crescent Avenue; 404-873-7358. South City Kitchen Vinings: 1675 Cumberland Parkway; 770-435-0700. )

Celebrate Italian style at cozy La Tavola Trattoria in Virginia-Highland. Order your favorites from the regular menu or choose the four-course prix fixe menu at $50 per person. All items may be ordered à la carte ($7-$22). La Tavola will be open from 5:30 - 11 p.m. on New Year's Eve. (992 Virginia Avenue, NE; 404-873-5430.)

For a colorful and riotous celebration, head over to The Original El Taco, also in Virginia-Highland. The bar opens at 4 p.m., and the spirited cantina serves its full dinner menu from 5 - 10 p.m. Amigos will be toasting with "the champagne of beers," $2 Miller High Life and $5 champagnaritas. Adios 2009, hola 2010! (1186 N. Highland Avenue, NE; 404-873-4656).

If plans call for ringing in the New Year with friends in Midtown, head over to European-inspired Ecco. On New Year's Eve, guests can choose from the full regular menu or a special New Year's Eve à la carte menu($3-$25). And don't worry about missing out on the bubbly. "Bubble Boy" will be circulating the restaurant selling champagne tableside. (40 7th Street, NE; 404-347-9555.)

Atlantans heading west toward 2009's last sunset can celebrate at JCT. Kitchen & Bar on the Westside. Start with dinner from the $55 four-course prix fixe menu that includes a complimentary champagne toast, then stay on to party with delicious drinks and live music by Justin Brogdon & One Story Town. (1198 Howell Mill Road, Suite 18; 404-355-2252.)

Marlow's Tavern has a New Year's Eve plan that's good for your economy and stimulates your appetite for good food and fun. The tavern's $32 per-person, three-course prix fixe menu features some "Lobsters & Libations" selections as well as a complimentary glass of champagne. With six locations -- all serving food until midnight -- there's a Marlow's New Year's celebration near you. (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.)

For a more laid back take on New Year's Eve, head to Atlanta's newly-opened eatery, Ormsby's. With more than 18 beers on tap and games like bocce ball, darts and pool to keep the fun going all night long, it's sure to be a good time! (1170 Howell Mill Road, NW; 404-968-2033.)

Escort the old year out and New Year in by dining at Pacci Ristorante, one of Esquire magazine's "Best New Restaurants of 2009." Pacci's elegant setting surrounds you with style as you dine on selections from the Italian steakhouse's much-acclaimed dinner menu. We could get used to this! (866 West Peachtree Street, NW; 678-412-2402.)

Ray's on the River celebrated the big 25 in October and wants to keep the party rolling out of 2009 and into 2010 with a special prix fixe menu at several price points. Ray's on the River, along with Ray's Killer Creek, will offer menus ranging from $55 to $85 per person. Make reservations online or by calling the restaurants. (Ray's on the River: 6700 Powers Ferry Road; 770-955-1187. Ray's Killer Creek: 1700 Mansell Road, Alpharetta; 770-649-0064.)

Looking to spice up your New Year's Eve? Spice Market, in the W Atlanta Midtown, has sister locations in NYC, Istanbul and Doha, Qatar and a menu as vibrant as the Southeast Asian markets that inspired its name. On New Year's Eve, Spice Market guests can indulge in a five-course prix fixe menu. The $75-per-person culinary celebration includes party favors, DJ music and a champagne toast. Call 404-549-5450 for New Year's Eve reservations; make general online reservations through Open Table. (In the W Hotel Midtown, 188 14th Street, NE.)

New Year's Eve crosses the Atlantic, bringing together classic American comfort food and French culinary techniques at Toulouse American Bistro. From 5:30 - 11 p.m., the Buckhead restaurant will serve from its regular menu, including favorites such as braised lamb shank with herb roasted vegetables and a calamata olive-sweet pepper sauce. Call 404-351-9533 for reservations. (2293 Peachtree Road, NE.)

Uncle Julio's Fine Mexican Food has plenty to celebrate. Both locations will be open on New Year's Eve, serving up authentic border-flavored. (In Buckhead at 1860 Peachtree Road, NW; 404-350-6767. To-go line: 404-974-2991. In Sandy Springs at 1140 Hammond Drive, NE, Building K, Suite 100; 678-736-8260. To-go line: 404-974-2991.)

Ormsby's Really Is a "Fun Place to Be"

When Warren Bruno told me his vision for Ormsby's he said "it'll be a fun place to be." And it is!
With two big bars (upstairs and downstairs), an incredible beer list (including my fave St. Bernardus) and yummy food like brats, onion rings and hand-cut fries with pot roast gravy, how could it not be fun?

Oh, and there are pool tables, bocce ball (yes, it's a huge space), shuffleboard, darts and other fun stuff to do. Last night there were a couple of Christmas parties going on downstairs and everyone was having a great time playing games.

Ormsby's has all the components of a fun place without any pretense. It's only been open 3 days but it's already bustling. Go there and have some fun!

(It's a little hidden. Park free in the White Provision deck. Walk out of the deck, cross the street you entered on, go down the steps and all the way to the right.)

Christmas Eve Options

This year, some of Atlanta’s top restaurants are open on Christmas Eve, giving all of us a break from the kitchen and a chance to enjoy good food with the ones we love. Check out our list of Christmas Eve openings:

Aqua blue is open for dinner until 8 p.m., serving signature cocktails and globally inspired cuisine. (1564 Holcomb Bridge Road; 770-643-8886.)

Aria is serving dinner from 5:30 – 8:30 p.m. (490 East Paces Ferry Road; 404-233-7673.)

RA Sushi is open until 3 p.m. RA Sushi: 1080 Peachtree Street at 1010 Midtown; 404-267-0114.)

Ray’s Restaurants: Ray's on the River and Ray's Killer Creek are open until 9 p.m., while Ray's in the City is open until 3 p.m. (Ray’s on the River: 6700 Powers Ferry Road; 770-955-1187. Ray’s Killer Creek: 1700 Mansell Road, Alpharetta; 770-649-0064. Ray’s in the City: 240 Peachtree Street, NW; 404-524-9224.)

Newly-opened Truva is open from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. (60 Andrew Young International Boulevard; 404-577-8788.)

Uncle Julio’s Fine Mexican Food will be open until 5 p.m. (Buckhead: 1860 Peachtree Road, NW; 404-350-6767. Sandy Springs: 1140 Hammond Drive, NE, Building K, Suite 100; 678-736-8260.)

Holiday cocktails to keep you festive

The weather is cooling off and those glasses of eggnog and hot cider just aren’t doing the trick anymore. These seasonal sippers will bring the joy back into your glass.


Experience “Christmas in Tokyo” ($8) at hip RA Sushi during December then bring the experience home using the upbeat Midtown sushi bar’s recipe below. Exotic fruit and a hint of ginger take this classic champagne cocktail eastward to Asia. For home party mixing, start with a martini shaker and ice, then combine:

1 oz. TY KU Soju
½ oz. Pama pomegranate liqueur
½ oz. simple syrup
¼ oz. ELIXIR G ginger mix
¼ oz. Soho lychee liqueur
Squeeze of lemon

In a glass, top mixture with Mionetto Prosecco sparkling wine and garnish with a lemon twist. That’s right, not an Oliver Twist. A lemon twist. (RA Sushi: 1080 Peachtree Street at 1010 Midtown; 404-267-0114.)

For an adult version of gingerbread in a glass, Marlow’s Tavern™ mixes up a jovial Holiday Spice martini ($8):

2 oz. Absolut Vanilia
1 oz. Voyant chai cream liqueur

Shake over ice, pour into a martini glass and garnish with a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice. (Marlow’s Tavern locations include 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.)

Pacci Ristorante imports a tad of minty fresh goodness into its Winter Smash ($12) that combines Bulleit bourbon, port, mint, maple syrup and Angostura bitters. When you’re already chilled, thaw out with Pacci’s Winter Nights cocktail ($12) that blends Hennessey Cognac VS, Fonseca Bin 27 port, Angostura bitters and maple syrup and serves it up with a little hot water for warmth. (866 West Peachtree Street, NW; 678-412-2402.)

Give Back This Weekend

Our friends at Georgia Organics, will be working with Riverview Farms this Saturday, December 19 from 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. to help repair some of the farm that was severely damaged by a tornado last week. Riverview Farms is a strong and constant leader in Georgia's organic food community. Watch this Fox news story to learn more about the tornado.

This weekend, volunteers are asked to deconstruct structures that were destroyed by the recent tornado. The work is serious and potentially dangerous. If you can volunteer please be prepared for a disaster area littered with nails and splintered wood. Wear thick gloves, warm clothes and work boots. Tools would be appreciated as well, including a hammer drill (impact drill) with bits, hammers, crow bars, chain saw, metal saw, come-a-long tool, socket set, extension cords and other general tools for dismantling.

More volunteers are needed, so please RSVP here so Georgia Organics can get a headcount of how many folks are showing up. When RSVPing, please indicate in the "comment" section which tools you can bring. Lunch has been generously donated, but if you have dietary restrictions please bring your own food. Work will continue rain or shine (unless it's pouring). All volunteers must fill out this liability form, print it, and bring it with them. The farm is located at 954 White Graves Road, Ranger, GA 30014.

Go Fish for Your Birthday at Aqua blue…You’re Sure to Catch a Free Lobster!

Complimentary birthday cake is so last year. Aqua blue Restaurant & Bar lets you keep the cake and candles and offers guests a free birthday lobster instead. The Roswell restaurant known for superb seafood will treat you to a complimentary two-pound steamed whole Maine lobster when you dine at Aqua blue within 30 days of your birthday and purchase any other menu item. All you have to do is join Aqua blue’s eClub by signing up on the restaurant’s Web site or Facebook page. To claim your birthday crustacean, call 770-643-8886 at least 24 hours in advance and bring a printed copy of the eClub birthday email and your valid driver’s license to confirm your birth date. Not valid on tax, gratuity or in combination with other offers; limited to one lobster per table.

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

Catching Up With Kevin Gillespie

Now that the "Top Chef" madness is slowly coming to a close, we sat down with Chef Kevin Gillespie to get the inside scoop on what he has been up to:

MLA: What's the next concert you're going to see?
KG: The Avett Brothers at the Fox on January 1. I am a huge fan.

MLA: Are you dating anyone seriously?
KG: Not yet, but I'm currently interviewing.

MLA: Have you changed since being on "Top Chef"?
KG: I haven't changed at all, but my world has changed a lot because I get recognized everywhere I go.

MLA: Are you thinking about restaurant number two?
KG: I'd love to have a little BBQ shack. If it could be on Cheshire Bridge, that'd be awesome, so it would be close to Woodfire Grill.

MLA: What do you want for Christmas?
KG: As for a gift I would love a Macbook or a new TV. I generally don't buy Christmas gifts or receive them, and instead give all of the money to a needy family or donate it to charity. I prefer Christmas to be about family than gift giving.

Find out more tonight when "Top Chef" airs their reunion episode at 10 p.m. on Bravo.

Now Delivering Happiness (And Grilled Cheese) To Midtown

It’s about that time of day where your stomach starts to rumble and you start to think about lunch. What to get, what to get? Oh, we know.

And if it’s also one of those days where you are too swamped to leave the office, or have to plan food for the afternoon meeting, Noon Midtown has the answer for you!
Noon Midtown has started delivering to the central Midtown area, which means their savory sandwiches, soups and salads, as well as coffees, teas and juices can all be obtained by a simple phone call to 404-496-4891.

There’s a $10 minimum and delivery hours are between 11 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. Delivery is free in the areas highlighted on Noon Midtown’s website, but tips are always appreciated.

Don’t wait – the best grilled cheese in town is simply a phone call away from landing at your desk!

Noon Midtown: 1080 Peachtree Street, Suite 6, on Crescent Avenue between 11th and 12th streets; 404-496-4891.

A Real $5 Find

A good martini is hard to find. A good martini for a good deal is even harder to find! Ray's Restaurants has solved this martini mystery by offering $5 premium martinis seven days a week at all three Atlanta-area locations. Whether you’re up in Alpharetta or in the heart of the city, taking time to try one of these cost-effective cocktails is a must!

Each martini starts with Absolut Vodka then adds:

• Ray's Blue Smoke martini: Blue Curacao and Blue Smoke


• Ray's Lemon Drop martini: lemon juice, sweet and sour mix and a sugared rim


• Maytag martini: olive juice and Maytag blue cheese-stuffed olives


• Pomegranate martini: pomegranate liqueur, Triple Sec and cranberry juice


• Chocolate martini: a hint of vanilla, Godiva chocolate liqueur and Bailey's Irish cream


• Georgia Peach martini: peach schnapps and a splash of orange juice


• French martini: Chambord liqueur and pineapple juice

Ray's on the River: 6700 Powers Ferry Road; 770-955-1187.
Ray's Killer Creek: 1700 Mansell Road, Alpharetta; 770-649-0064.
Ray's in the City: 240 Peachtree Street, NW; 404-524-9224

12 Meals, 12 Great Deals at Evos

Crime? Eating too much junk food!

I don't know about you but I get so tired of all the over-the-top eating we do at the holidays so I am loving the new promotion EVOS Feel Great Fast Food is doing - 12 Meal of Good Deals. We’re talking steakburgers and Airfries, not turtle doves and partridges. From now until Christmas Eve, Evos is featuring a different signature value meal each day at a price that will leave a little extra jingle in your holiday shopping budget.

December 12 – Crispy Thai Trout Wrap
December 13 – EVOS Original Championburger
December 14 – Chopped Steak Taco Wrap
December 15 – Honey Mesquite Chicken Burger
December 16 – Tomato Basil Chicken Wrap
December 17 – Chipotle Turkey Burger
December 18 – Crispy Buffalo Chicken Wrap
December 19 – Veggie Garden Grill Burger
December 20 – Spicy Thai Chicken Wrap
December 21 – Spicy Trout Filet Burger
December 22 – Avocado & Turkey Wrap
December 23 – EVOS Original Steakburger
*Vegetarian substitutions available upon request

EVOmaniacs who have a healthy holiday and collect six out of the 12 Meals of Good Deals cards will receive a $20 Greenback Gift Card. For those who prefer giving rather than receiving, you can choose to donate your $20 Greenback to the Atlanta Community Food Bank. I'm looking forward to using this as an opportunity to try out some new items on their menu starting with the avocado & turkey wrap - sounds delish!