Time's Running Out for New York Butcher Shoppe's September Specials

Can the last days of September really already be here?  Better hurry to New York Butcher Shoppe to take advantage of their monthly features!  Let's start with September's Certified Angus Beef and Wagyu beef specials and early week specials and then move on to New York Butcher Shoppe's Wine Club.  Visit your nearby New York Butcher Shoppe for Certified Angus Beef strips at $11.99 per pound and Wagyu sirloin steaks, priced at a mouthwatering $12.99 a pound.  Sought-after Wagyu beef is known for the tenderness, flavor and juiciness incurred by unsaturated fat marbling. Tailgaters, grab some NYBS award-winning chili at $8.99 each and get a free eight-ounce container of pimento cheese dip to use as an appetizer or chili topper.   Homemade shepherd's pie at $6.99 each comes to the rescue of many a weeknight menu planner.  And for this week's early week specials, look for boneless chicken breasts for $2.99 per pound (limit three pounds) available from Monday to Wednesday. Nice to pick up high-quality meats and top-notch wines in the same stop, and New York Butcher Shoppe has both -- and a Wine Club.  The first Wednesday of each month, NYBS chooses and gives two wines with tasting notes to Wine Club members.  Members also receive a 10 percent discount on all wine purchases.  Wine Club membership is $29.99 per month with a three-month minimum. For even more savings, buy five months and get one month free! This month's two featured wines for Wine Club members are Costamolino Vermentino di Sardegna DOC, 2008, a white blend of 90 percent Vermentino and 10 percent other Sardinian grapes, and youthful red San Polo Rubio IGT, Toscano 2009 made from Sangiovese Grosso.  New York Butcher Shoppe: Dunwoody at 2458 Mt. Vernon Road; 770-399-6328. Sandy Springs at4969 Roswell Road; 404-303-0704. Alpharetta at 5354 McGinnis Ferry Road; 678-624-0047.

Fadó Has All Your Rugby World Cup Needs Covered!

According to the Rugby Football Union, the IRB Rugby World Cup is the third-biggest sporting event on the planet, right up there with the Olympics and FIFA World Cup Soccer. The matches are underway in New Zealand, continuing through the final on October 23. Fadó Irish Pub & Restaurant has your back with a full game-viewing lineup posted on the Fadó website sports page. The Buckhead pub will even show matches that air at 3:30 a.m. Atlanta time for ardent fans and insomniacs! Who needs sleep when you can cheer with friends over food and drink at Fadó? If you do need sleep, come back for the replays!

Fadó Irish Pub & Restaurant: 273 Buckhead Avenue; 404-841-0066.

Our Appetizing Aperture of the Week

Current craving: this scrumptious plate of White Oak Pastures chicken (and all the fixings, of course) served up from Jim 'n Nick's BBQ at the recent grand opening party for the farm's new poultry abattoir!

It's Follow Friday; Meet Our Tweep of the Week @TheTrotline

Anyone who's used a trotline to fish or go crabbing knows you have to bait the hooks. The Trot Line (@TheTrotLine) uses intriguing nuggets of Southern culture unearthed right here in Atlanta to bait and hook readers into coming back for more.  Contributors on Twitter and The Trot Line blog include writers, photographers, outdoor enthusiasts, foodies and more who immerse themselves in our local Southern culture.  Bless their hearts!  Fill up your tall, sweet tea and link in for a visit.

Get Ready to Fall for Aqua blue's New Menu

Mark your calendars! This Friday marks the first day of fall and Aqua blue is unveiling its new menu in honor of the season. Starters of handcrafted flatbread, seared pork dumplings, Colorado lamb sliders with tomato-bacon jam, caramelized cipollini onion and gorgonzola, and new sushi rolls replace spring rolls and other light fare. Crowd pleasing mains include roasted chicken with Parmesan farro, carrots, celery, caramelized onion, Brussels leaves, Meyer lemon and thyme-scented wild mushroom jus; Niman Ranch pork chop with habanero sauce, Swiss chard and loaded red bliss potato; soy-glazed Georgia mountain trout with shiitake mushrooms, baby corn, zucchini, snow peas and carrots with teriyaki sauce; the "AB House" burger topped with fontina cheese, caramelized onion and oven-dried tomato; and thyme-seared ahi tuna with chickpeas and basil ratatouille. Even crisp salads hint of fall -- the Aqua blue house salad tops field greens with Granny Smith apples, asparagus, toasted sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, walnuts and sweet herb dressing. These seasonal dishes will have you declaring your love for autumn in no time!

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

Dine Out For No Kid Hungry with Marlow's Tavern and Aqua blue

Love it when someone has a dinner idea for every night of the week... and adding a way to nourish others in the process ups the yum factor.  Join Americans across the country in dining out in the Dine Out for No Kid Hungry through Saturday, September 24.  More than a thousand restaurants nationwide are participating in Share Our Strength's fundraiser to help alleviate childhood hunger in our nation by 2015.   Here in the metro area, Aqua blue in Roswell and all Marlow's Tavern locations are among the fabulous and friendly restaurants on the 75+ list.  They'll ask guests to donate $1 or more toward the cause.  In return, guests will receive one $5 bounce-back card to use on their next purchase at the restaurant.

Get Ready to Get "Smashed" in Alpharetta

Smashburger's newest Atlanta-area addition is on its way and will be landing in Alpharetta on Wednesday, September 28. The restaurant will open its doors at 5530 Windward Parkway for lunch and dinner to offer sizzling burgers, sandwiches, fries and more. This is the third of 20 plus Atlanta-area Smashburgers that local franchisee Phil Wilkins is slated to open over the next seven years.

Named for the cooking method used to create the perfect burger, Smashburgers are 100-percent—fresh, never frozen, Certified Angus Beef smashed on a flat grill to sear in the juicy flavor. For all Georgia locations, guests can indulge in the Atlanta burger that includes peach BBQ sauce, Wicked® Pimina cheese, grilled jalapenos and vidalia coleslaw all on an egg bun (pictured above). Along with its savory burgers, Smashburger also serves marinated Smashchicken sandwiches, Smashdogs, Smashsalads and Smashsides. Kids of all ages can enjoy Häagen-Dazs shakes and root beer floats, while beer and wine are available for adults. Check out another Atlanta-area location's menu to gear up your taste buds.

It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year: Ribs & Whiskey is Back at Marlow’s Tavern

It’s that time again!  The Ribs & Whiskey specials you’ve come to know and love are back at Marlow’s Tavern starting tomorrow!  From September 20 through October 24, all eight Marlow’s locations will be offering a spectacularly saucy menu that involves a secret, Maker’s Mark Whiskey sauce!  In addition, there are tasty, rib ticklin’ cocktails to perfectly compliment your meal.  You can view the full menu here.

Marlow's Tavern:  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; Duluth at 1950 Satellite Boulevard, 770-622-2033; East Cobb at 1311 Johnson Ferry Road (across from the movie theatre and next to Kohl's department store), 770-977-7747; and Cumming at 410 Peachtree Parkway, 770-886-3666

Spice Market, Skylines & Spirits - Oh My!

Relish the pleasant fall temps and admire the Atlanta city skyline at dusk; September is the last month -- and maybe the best month -- to visit the Atlanta Botanical Garden for a Thursday night Cocktails in the Garden. This month's theme is "Skylines & Spirits." Step out to enjoy the crisp, autumn evening air in the company of fabulous food, drinks, and friends on September 22, when Midtown's own Spice Market in the W Atlanta-Midtown provides the complimentary light bites. The “spirits" will be available to purchase at the full cash bar. If you can tear yourself away from the tasty appetizers and tantalizing cocktails, groove into the evening to the sounds of Lethal Rhythms Atlanta DJs. The event is from 6-10 p.m. Admission is free for Garden members; $18.95 for everyone else. Guest passes accepted. Don’t miss one of this year’s last chances to attend Cocktails in the Garden!

Our Appetizing Aperture Of The Week

Chef Drew Belline's Backyard Honey Gelato Cone With Fennel Pollen

Honey, this amazing gelato cone from Chef Drew Belline of Decatur's No. 246 is truly the bee's knees!

New York Butcher Shoppe Sponsors Atlanta Bar-B-Q Festival

In a deal sealed over grill and flames, New York Butcher Shoppe is sponsoring the Backyard Division cooking competition in this year's Atlanta Bar-B-Q Festival on Saturday, October 1. Sure, there's a pro league, but New York Butcher Shoppe's heart is into helping aspiring BBQ pitmasters grill to their greatest potential with top-quality meats. New York Butcher Shoppe is providing all of the meat and a $25 gift card for each of the 20 teams that may make up the Backyard Division. They're even judging teams for the most creative name and will pick up the $200 entrance fee for their winning choice. 


The New York Butcher Shoppe also is providing the meat for the "Anything Butt" competition on Friday, September 30. For more information on the festival and competition, visit the event website. The New York Butcher Shoppe has three locations in Alpharetta, Sandy Springs and Dunwoody, and they're on Facebook, too.


New York Butcher Shoppe: Dunwoody at 2458 Mt. Vernon Road; 770-399-6328. Sandy Springs at 4969 Roswell Road; 404-303-0704. Alpharetta at 5354 McGinnis Ferry Road; 678-624-0047.

It's Follow Friday; Meet Our Tweep of the Week @sthrnbellesimpl

Wow!  That confession almost says it all about this proud Southern Belle!  Like Margaret Mitchell's Melly, Kate S. rejoices in all things "sweetly southern."  Besides cupcakes and silver, she has a penchant for story telling and junk store shopping.  

Her tweets (@sthrnbellesimpl) are a delightful pop of Southern culture on a smart phone, and her Southern Belle Simple blog tells more of the story, y'all.  

Marlow's Tavern & Special Olympics Georgia Set the Gold Standard for Teamwork

With eight locations around metro Atlanta, Marlow's Tavern is all about being a part of the community and satisfying their neighbors with the "Best of the Best" in American tavern fare. Fittingly, for the past 14 years, Marlow's has been dedicated to helping some of the "Best of the Best" in Georgia sports -- Special Olympics Georgia (SOGA). Each year, Marlow's Tavern hosts a golf tournament for SOGA, and each time Marlow's opens a new location, SOGA benefits from the opening night fundraiser. All together, these events have brought in close to $300,000 for Special Olympics Georgia. Marlow's was recognized as a SOGA sponsor in the organization's August e-newsletter. Read it and be inspired to help this very special program. Golfers -- be a part of the fun; the Marlow's Tavern Golf Classic is October 10 at Horseshoe Bend Country Club and is followed by a reception at Aqua blue in Roswell.

Dionysian Delights Every Wednesday in September at Fleming's

What better way to make it past hump day and on to the weekend than by indulging in some savory sips of wine at Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse and Wine Bar! On every "Winesday" (translation Wednesday) in September, guests can delight in 25 percent off any bottle from the new Fleming's 100 and/or complimentary corkage of their own wine. The gift that keeps on giving, guests who take advantage of either of these offers will receive a special Fleming’s card good for 25 percent off any of the Fleming’s 100 bottles or for complimentary corkage on a future visit before December 30.

Gluten-Free Has Never Tasted So Good: Head to No. 246 for National Celiac Disease Awareness Day (and Beyond!)

Anyone cutting gluten out of their diet knows how tricky it can be, especially when dining out!  Luckily, No. 246 in Decatur has made things a little easier, because they offer gluten-free pasta every day by request.  They can provide gluten-free versions of any of the pasta dishes on their menu, and because they are a locally driven restaurant, these noodle options rotate regularly depending on what ingredients are available.  Since, today is National Celiac Disease Awareness Day (Learn more about it here.), celebrate with a heaping helping of gluten-free pasta at No. 246.  Even better, you can get gluten-free spaghetti at Monday night Spaghetti Suppers, held from 5 - 10 p.m. each Monday through September 26.  Monday's Spaghetti Suppers are $24 per person for four courses, including a "Toast" appetizer, salad, spaghetti with one of three toppings and gelato for dessert.

"Like" No. 246 on Facebook and follow them on Twitter (@no_246).

No. 246:  129 E. Ponce de Leon Avenue; 678-399-8246.

Retail Therapy Reigns Supreme at Spice Market Next Wednesday

Next Wednesday, September 21, Spice Market (located inside the W Atlanta-Midtown) is hosting the ultimate Ladies Night from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Think cocktails, nibbles and a discount card for The W Hotels Store. It's a great time to get the girls together to try one or both of the night’s two signature cocktails at $5 apiece and enjoy complimentary hors d’oeuvre while swooning over the new W Hotels Store exclusive Global Glam fall/winter line that will be on display at the restaurant. Ladies Night attendees will receive a discount card good for 20 percent off a purchase in the store, which is also located inside the hotel and will remain open until 10 p.m. that night. The W Hotels Store has everything from jewelry and apparel to travel gear and home furnishings. It's also a great place to find holiday gifts, and let's face it, who wouldn't want to combine sipping, snacking and shopping?!

Say “So Long Summer” with RA Sushi on September 15

Just because summer's almost over doesn't mean the fun has to end. RA Sushi is throwing a "So Long Summer" party from 7 p.m. until close on Thursday, September 15. Forget about your summertime blues, you'll be too busy enjoying all the outrageous specials and music from DJ Krillz to care!

There are plenty of food specials for guests to sample including a Sunset Roll ($6), Seaside Roll ($7), Grilled Beef Skewers ($8), Bonfire Shrimp ($9), Summer School Chicken Nuggets ($6) and Kaisen Ceviche ($11). Feeling a little parched? Check out the all-day drink specials include Long Island Iced Tea ($5), Endless Summer Night ($5), Summer Sake Sangria ($5), Kirin/Kirin Light and Sake ($5), Bud Light ($3) and Miller Lite ($3).

Summer is on the way out, but outstanding food and drinks are always in at RA Sushi in Midtown. Get more details and RSVP on Facebook.

RA Sushi: 1080 Peachtree Street at 1010 Midtown; 404-267-0114.

Rooftop has spirit, yes they do! Rooftop has spirit, how about you?

Get your game face on!  Fans wearing or carrying ANY Georgia Tech gear – including Georgia Tech shirts, hats, pom-poms, pens, IDs, bumper stickers, you name it – to Rooftop 866 on Tech game days (home and away!) will score 20 percent off the tasty bar bites!  The deal starts this Saturday, September 10 when the Yellow Jackets face off against Middle Tennessee State University, so dust off your Tech paraphernalia and get ready for a delicious discount!  You can sample house-made chips with chili, peach and Vidalia onion dip, lump crab potato skins, short rib sliders, pork carnitas tacos, grilled ham and cheese with arugula and tomato jam or halibut ceviche!  Need a celebratory drink to wash it all down?  Rooftop 866 has plenty of signature cocktails, wine, and beer to keep the party going.  Open daily, weather permitting, from 6 p.m. to 1 a.m.

Rooftop 866:  866 West Peachtree Street, NW; 678-412-2402.

It's Follow Friday; Meet Our Tweep of the Week @Journeypod

From copy and podcasts on music, restaurants, ritzy and boutique travel options, nightlife and clubs to top chef and celebrity sightings and interviews, Carly Redgers and journeyPod peek behind the scenes to keep you well fed on a luxurious diet. It's also a savvy spot for honeymoon ideas, spas and even interesting festivals -- all over the world. Download and listen in or read the online magazine.  For smaller doses, join in on the Twitter (@journeypod) conversation.

Our Appetizing Aperture Of The Week

Touchdown! Football season is back and so were these awesome football doughnuts from always crave-worthy Krispy Kreme on a recent visit to their Columbus store.  This calls for excessive celebration!

Kevin Gillespie on Squidbillies Sunday at 11:45 p.m.

Don't miss it! Kevin plays himself on the popular Adult Swim show Squidbillies. According to sources, it's hilarious. According to Kevin, it's a dream come true. Weigh in on his Facebook page.

You Can't Spell Sunday Southern Comfort Without R-A-Y-S

Buttermilk fried chicken, house-cut pork chops and turkey with dressing...these are just some of the Sunday classics that have brought friends and family together around the table! Now, Ray's at Killer Creek is cooking up these southern comfort foods with a gourmet twist for Sunday supper from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Executive Chef Tracey Bloom is sending out bottomless sides and oven-fresh biscuits or cornbread to accompany her new family style meal that replaces Sunday brunch. Quite a find at $16 per person! When an afternoon or evening calls for a cocktail, stop at Ray's at Killer Creek to enjoy their new line-up of lounge specials. Taste your way through the new flavors of Ray's signature martinis and other daily deals such as half-price appetizers, $5 cocktails, and beer and wine specials. Live jazz on Friday and Saturday nights.

Ray's at Killer Creek: 1700 Mansell Road, Alpharetta; 770-649-0064.

Vote for Your Favorite Chefs So Their Face Can Grace a Street Banner!

Hurry! Every vote counts as Taste of Atlanta selects its top 12 chefs according to Facebook polling. We're campaigning for some of our favorites: Andrew Smith of Atkins Park Tavern in Virginia Highland, Asha Gomez of Spice Route Supper Club and Cardamom Hill, Drew Belline of no. 246, Ford Fry of JCT. Kitchen & Bar and John Coley of Double Zero Napoletana. The only "voter registration" required is to "Like" the Taste of Atlanta Facebook page so you can participate in the vote count. Voting ends September 9. The 12 top vote recipients will be listed on festival banners. This year's fill-the-streets-with-eats festival takes place the weekend of October 23 - 24. Get to voting and tasting!

We've Got the Cure for the Back to Work Blues: National Coffee Ice Cream Day

We know it's extra hard to get back into the work week groove after a long holiday weekend, but luckily today is National Coffee Ice Cream Day so you have an excuse to double up on the sugar and the caffeine. What keeps our buzz going is the Vietnamese coffee ice cream at Spice Market in the W Atlanta-Midtown. As an office full of java junkies, we can promise you it's creamy, caffeinated and totally tasty. And trust us, it's not a dessert that you want to share. You can also get it to go ($4/half a pint) for an even faster fix!

Book Your Christmahaunakwanzika Party at Aqua Blue Early and Save!

Keep more jingle in the holiday season (and in your pocket) by booking your party early at Aqua blue. Do you think Santa waits till the month before Christmas to start planning? Nooo-ho-ho way, and neither should you! You don't have to hold the party now, but if you plan ahead and book your holiday soirée in the next few weeks you’ll be able to save a sizable chunk of change. The popular restaurant and bar in Roswell is extending 10 percent off party food costs and nixing the room rental fee for those who book their event before September 16. Aqua blue simplifies the planning process and offers options ranging from value-priced luncheons to multi-course fine dining and elegant cocktail receptions with chef stations. To book your event, contact Sabrina Rosenberg, srosenberg@sterlingspoon.com, 770-643-8886.

It's Follow Friday; Meet Our Tweep of the Week @BonnieBOTB

Bonnie Tandy Leblang has the healthy degree (she's a registered dietician) but admits loving food -- all kinds of food.  Find out what's going on in her food world bite-by-bite on Twitter (@BonnieBOTB).  For bigger portions, hit up her interactive website -- Bite of the Best.

There’s No Fowl Play in Bluffton: New Chicken Abattoir Opens at White Oak Pastures

Pass the drumsticks, please!  On August 29, White Oak Pastures began processing birds in their brand new, on-farm poultry abattoir -- the only USDA-inspected poultry processing facility available to farmers for processing free-range pastured poultry in Georgia, Florida, Alabama, Tennessee and Mississippi.  The timing couldn’t be better, because today marks the start of National Chicken Month, and what better way to celebrate than with some tasty, free-range fare?  Will Harris offers chickens, turkeys, ducks, and geese on his five-generation, family owned and operated Bluffton, Ga. farm.  In addition to the abattoir, Harris is further developing the farm’s Serengeti Plains rotational grazing model that moves cows, sheep and birds through pastures for feeding and fertilizing -- a method that has existed for centuries in Africa.  White Oak Pastures also participates in the Global Animal Partnership's Five-Step Animal Welfare Rating Standards program and is one of only two farms in the country to receive the Step Five certification on its chickens (and one of only a handful of farms to receive the Step Four certification on cattle).  You can find White Oak Pastures chicken in many of your favorite restaurants and grocery stores.  So don’t delay, get some today!

White Oak Pastures: 22775 Highway 27, Bluffton, GA; 229-641-2081

Duck Into Atkins Park Smyrna for Dueling Pianos Tonight!

While you're staring at your computer screen today, you might as well start typing up a list of your favorite song requests so you can head over to Atkins Park Tavern in Smyrna tonight for dueling pianos! Every Wednesday night at 8 p.m., pianists Ty Reynolds, Mike Renna and Mark Kovaly will play all the requests you can think of along with their own preferred selections. We suggest keeping an ongoing personal playlist and turning this ivory-tickling entertainment into a weekly outing with friends!

Atkins Park Tavern in Smyrna is located in Market Village at 2840 Atlanta Road.

Saved by the Bocce Ball

According to the Atlanta Bocce League (ABL), bocce ranks third in worldwide sports participation (behind soccer and golf) and is considered to be the oldest-known sport in world history. In true southern Italian style, Double Zero Napoletana in Sandy Springs is finishing up installation of bocce ball courts on its generous patio, and both courts will soon be ready for bocce action.

Don't know if you have what it takes? The ABL says bocce essentials are "something to sit on, something to sip on, something to listen to, and the bocce balls." The restaurant will host the Atlanta Bocce Ball fall league from 6:15 - 10 p.m. every Wednesday night for eight weeks beginning on September 14. Don't forget the sips at Double Zero's full bar, or the sits -- as in sitting down to share small plates, dinner or dessert after the match! More on Facebook.

Bocce is already well entrenched in the game repertoire of Ormsby's. The Atlanta Bocce League will play fall games at this Westside bar and eatery on Monday nights beginning September 19 from 6:15 - 10 p.m. Ormsby's is home to Atlanta's premier indoor bocce league...good to know because a) no rainouts (in case it does rain); b) no dry spells (abundance of cold brews and other libations); and c) plenty of fuel for the games with hearty appetizers, sandwiches and burgers.

To participate, sign up at www.atlbocce.com by Thursday, September 1. Registration costs $45 per player with a five-player minimum per team. Teams registering with fewer than five players may absorb other registrants to form a complete team.

Double Zero Napoletana: 5825 Roswell Road; 770-817-8000.
Ormsby's: 1170 Howell Mill Road, NW; 404-968-2033.

What's Cooking This Labor Day Weekend?

Do it. Face the weekend before it swallows you.  

Maybe you have big plans (that don't involve cooking), house guests (not the kind of catering you had in mind) or you'll be pulling back into town after holiday travel (please no more drive thru, and I can't deal with the groceries). 

Keep this open-on-Labor Day list of restaurants handy.  Tackling meal and party decisions suddenly became much less laborious!

·  Atkins Park Tavern in Smyrna and Virginia Highland:  Late night note -- Atkins Park Virginia Highland stays open later, until 2:30 a.m., on Sunday due to the Monday holiday.

·  Briza: Farm-to-table Southern fare in a stylish setting for breakfast, lunch or dinner in the Renaissance Atlanta Midtown Hotel.

·  Fadó Irish Pub & Restaurant:  Aye, Buckhead's favorite Irish pub always has sports on the screens, cold drinks and hearty fare.

·  Fleming's Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar: The Fleming's 100 wine list is on!

·  Marlow's Tavern:  Ideal meeting place for friends.  All eight locations will be open.

·  Ormsby's:  Come in on Sunday for Brews, chews and games until 2:30 a.m.

·  RA Sushi:  Cool off with $8 Summer Sips specialty drinks, sushi and Japanese fusion dishes. 

·  Smashburger:  Smashing time to try either the Buckhead or Johns Creek locations.

·  Spice Market:  In the W Atlanta-Midtown for exotic eats near at hand.

·  Truffles Grill:  Lunch, dinner and drinks located right across from Lenox Square.

It's Follow Friday; Meet our Tweep of the Week @TastemakerMag

We know Atlantans want to keep up with the newest finds in arts and culture, entertainment, fashion, food, beauty, technology and the finer things in life.  It's easy enough when following ATL Tastemaker Mag tweets (@TastemakerMag) or by reading their online magazine!

Fleming's Uncorks a Month of Specials for Wine Enthusiasts

To celebrate the debut of this year’s Fleming’s 100 wine list, Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar is offering a variety of wine specials for the month of September. Come every week and you’ll work your way through the collection by September’s end! On Friday “Opening Nights” -- September 2, 9, 16, 23 and 30 -- Flemings will feature 20 different wines from the Fleming’s 100 list from 5:30 - 7 p.m. $25 per person covers wine samples and an exclusive preview of Fleming’s new Small Plates menu. Space is limited; call early to reserve your place.

On every “Winesday" (translation Wednesday) in September, guests can savor 25 percent off any bottle from the new Fleming’s 100 and/or complimentary corkage of their own wine. And guests who take advantage of either of these offers will receive a special Fleming’s card good for 25 percent off any Fleming’s 100 bottle or for complimentary corkage on a future visit before December 30.

Midway through the month, on Saturday, September 17 at 6:30 p.m., Fleming’s will host a five-course Silver Oak Wine Dinner with pairings for $125 per person (excludes tax and gratuity). Five wines from the “twin sister” wineries of Silver Oak and Twomey Cellars will be poured, including a side-by-side vertical tasting of 2006 and 2007 vintages of the Silver Oak Cabernet Sauvignon, Alexander Valley. Here’s how the menu flows: passed hors d’oeuvre of roasted red pepper and arugula flatbread with goat cheese served with Twomey Sauvignon Blanc, Napa Valley, 2010; tuna carpaccio with crispy capers, red onion, baby greens and Dijon vinaigrette paired with Twomey Merlot, Napa Valley, 2006; petite lamb chops with polenta fries, mint pistachio pesto and Fleming’s proprietary F-17 sauce served with Silver Oak Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley, 2006; Newport Club ribeye with thick-cut applewood smoked bacon, sautéed mushrooms and bacon-shallot butter accompanied by a Silver Oak Cabernet Sauvignon, Alexander Valley vertical tasting of the 2006 and 2007 vintages. A truffle trio caps the evening in flavors of white chocolate-Meyer lemon, Valencia orange and dark chocolate-cabernet. Don’t let this remarkable evening escape -- make reservations today.

Fleming's Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar: 4501 Olde Perimeter Way in Perimeter Place Village; 770-698-8112.

Get Your Float on at Ray's on the River

Ray's on the River has created an adults-only treat by substituting real beer for the root beer to make delightfully delicious beer ice cream floats. From 3 - 7 p.m. today and tomorrow, guests can cool off with this childhood favorite turned cocktail! And we just got word that Ray's on the River will be offering these sweet treats every Thursday and Friday in September, too. The restaurant will also have $5 cocktails all day long, half-price appetizers and live music. Ray's on the River is located at 6700 Powers Ferry Road; 770-955-1187.

Get Your Groove on at Fadó's "Ladies '80s" Party for Team in Training on August 27th

Get decked out in your best '80s attire and head over to Fadó Irish Pub & Restaurant on Saturday, August 27 for this month's "Ladies '80s" party. Not only do you get an excuse to throw on a rockin’ '80s ensemble, but you’ll also be benefitting the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society's Team in Training triathlon team by attending. This totally '80s fundraising party starts at 7 p.m. with tunes from the likes of Madonna and Michael Jackson blasting all night and classic '80s cocktails like Long Island Iced Tea, Mai Tai and Blue Hawaiian priced at just $5 for the ladies. The $20 entry fee will score you two draft beer tickets and a happy hour buffet. Take a break from doing your ‘80s thang on the dance floor to partake in the 50/50 cash raffle and a silent auction. Best part -- all money raised goes toward finding a cure for Leukemia and Lymphoma. Fadó keeps the party rocking into the night with a DJ starting at 10:30 p.m. RSVP and get more info on Facebook. Fadó hosts "Ladies '80s" on the last Saturday of each month. Check out the restaurant's website for more information.

Don't Miss a Weekend of Eating at Corks & Forks on August 27 and 28

You are just days away from a weekend you (and your taste buds) won’t soon forget!  It’s time again for Corks & Forks!  This two-day food tasting frenzy will take place August 27-28 as part of the 9^th Annual Grant Park Summer Shade Festival.  Attendees are invited to try a variety of scrumptious samplings from some of Atlanta’s top chefs.  On tap to participate are Atkins Park Tavern, Ormsby's and Spice Market in the W Atlanta-Midtown, plus White Oak Pastures Owner Will Harris will be judging the steak cook-off competition on Saturday!  During this special showdown, three chefs will compete to see who can cook his top-quality grass fed beef the best!  Guests over the age of 21 (picture ID, please) will also be able to sample some of Atlanta’s latest and greatest wines and craft beers.  Tickets are $35 per day or $60 for both days. You can purchase your tickets online through 5 p.m. on Friday, August 26 or at the gate after that.  Corks & Forks will be held under large covered pavilions, rain or shine, so come out and treat yourself to two delightfully delicious days.

Grand Deals at Marlow's Tavern's Grand Opening Celebration in Cumming

Just one day to celebrate the grand opening of the new Marlow’s Tavern in Cumming?  Perish the thought!  The newly opened restaurant is celebrating all this week with great dining deals for you to take advantage of until Sunday, August 28. 

Today, those folks who are “in the know” by being part of Marlow’s Insider’s Club will receive 20% off their check and the first 100 guests get a free t-shirt! (Pro tip: Anyone can become an Insider by signing up atwww.marlowstavern.com…) Tuesday, August 23 marks Tavern Burger Tuesday where the famous Tavern Burger will be just $5 all day.  On Wednesday, it’s Ladies Night and the feeling’s right with an array of $5 appetizers and drink deals starting at 5 p.m.  

On Thursday, August 25, get your school spirit in check for South Forsyth School Night with a 20% discount to guests who wear their school South Forsyth spirit apparel.  Friday’s celebration officially kicks off the weekend with a delicious happy hour featuring free appetizers from 5 to 7 p.m. and live music at 9.  Saturday, August 27 is Movie Night – guests will get a free appetizer when they bring in ticket stubs from the AMC Avenue Forsyth from that day.  And finally on Sunday, August 28, guests will close out the Grand Opening celebration with crab cake benedict for $7, along with $7 BLT Bloody Marys and bottomless mimosas.  

They say variety is the spice of life and these grand opening deals certainly have something for everyone!

Fadó kicks-off EPL soccer season with a Soccer Fanatic’s Weekend in London Giveaway

GOALLLLLL! It’s time to cheer, soccer fans। Fadó Irish Pub and Restaurant is kicking off the English Premier Soccer League season with the contest of a lifetime for European soccer fanatics. This season’s soccer-prize giveaway contest offers the unbelievable opportunity to win the ultimate Soccer Fanatic’s Weekend in London, courtesy of XL Soccer Tours.

Fadó’s lucky grand prize winner will receive a soccer fan’s dream weekend: a New Year’s trip for two to London that includes airfare, accommodations at a posh London hotel and 2 coveted tickets to highly-anticipated EPL soccer matches.

Dying to spend your New Year’s Eve cheering on your favorite team? Visit Fadó’s website at www.fadoirishpub.com/soccerfanatics to enter before September 6th। Although only one soccer enthusiast will win the trip to London, twelve finalists, chosen in early September, will win an EPL jersey of their choice as well as a Stella Artois keg party.

With a weekly soccer-game score-predictor challenge awarding winners anything from a free print to a free $100 bar tab and a match-day menu, Fadó Irish Pub and Restaurant is the premier spot to catch the EPL action this fall.

It's Follow Friday; Meet Our Tweep of the Week @jennifervcole

Jennifer V. Cole loves the Southern trifecta: pork, bourbon and cornbread. Never thought about that as a trifecta, but it makes total sense her way and throws some tasty tweet (@jennifervcole) fodder out there. That she is an editor at Southern Living adds credibility to the love-the-South gene! Y'all come to her Tales from the Road blog while you're at it.

Toss Your Dinnertime Dilemmas Out the Window...Midtown Restaurant Week is Coming Up!

The sixth annual Midtown Restaurant Week - Saturday, August 27 through Sunday, September 4 - is right around the corner, ready to free you of the nightly "what's for dinner?" debate that you have with yourself as you stand in front of the open refrigerator. It's the perfect chance to try out new restaurants or return to some of your favorites. Our favorite part: prix-fixe menus of three awesome courses will set you back only $25 or $35 (excluding beverages, tax and gratuity). Some of our must-eat picks: Briza, Ecco, RA Sushi, South City Kitchen Midtown and Spice Market in the W Atlanta- Midtown. Drool over their menus, see the complete list of participating restaurants and make your reservations at OpenTable.

Double Zero Hosts Caruso & Minini Wine Tasting on August 23

On Tuesday, August 23, Leonardo Nicotra from Caruso & Minini in Sicily, Italy is coming to Double Zero to lead guests through a fabulous, four-course wine tasting starting at 7 p.m.  The tasting begins with cantaloupe and prosciutto bruschetta paired with Caruso & Minini Inzolia '08.  Round two calls for Caruso & Minini Grillo Timpune '08 served with rancini -- lemon saffron risotto croquettes with peas, red pepper scamorza cheese, roasted yellow pepper coulis and Meyer lemon honey.  Next up is Double Zero's much-loved Margherita pizza topped with DOP San Marzano tomatoes, Mozzarella di Bufala Campana DOP and basil and served with Caruso & Minini Nero D' Avola '07.  Finally, course four ends the night on a sweet note with a strawberry Napoleon of fresh strawberries, lemon crème and strawberry basil compote in puff pastry.  Cost for the event is $39 per person (excluding tax and tip).  Make your reservations in advance by calling 404-991-3666. 

Double Zero Napoletana:  5825 Roswell Road; 404-991-3666.

Won’t You Be Our Neighbor?

On Tuesday evenings Rooftop 866 (located adjacent to the Renaissance Atlanta Midtown Hotel) offers a 20 percent discount to all guests who live in the surrounding neighborhood!  You can use the discount to sample the deliciously shareable bar bites like lemon garlic hummus, grilled ham and cheese, and house-made chips with a chili-peach and Vidalia onion dip (menu $.99 - $9).  At the bar, choose from a wide selection of wines by the glass and microbrews.  If you’re feeling fancy, you can sample a cocktail like the Blackberry Mojito (menu $9-$11) or try even cooler Boozy Pops ($3)!  The rooftop garden and the glowing stars create the perfect backdrop for a block party you won’t want to miss!

Rooftop 866:  866 West Peachtree Street, NW, adjacent to the Atlanta Renaissance Midtown Hotel; 678-412-2400.

One More Doughnut Won't Hurt When It's For A Great Cause

Muscogee County marshals must be hoping the Krispy Kreme "Hot Now" sign will pertain to the fresh, hot Krispy Kreme doughnuts...and not to the temps on their store-top perch during their "Deputies and Doughnuts" fundraiser this Saturday. Being hot is a small discomfort compared to the challenges 7-year-old Rhiannon Griggs faces as she deals with Rett Syndrome. The genetic neurodevelopmental disorder prevents Rhiannon's brain from communicating with her body - she can't speak and needs help feeding, dressing, walking and tackling basic daily activities. The deputies' goal is to raise money to buy Rhiannon a mobility stroller, which costs $3,000. To do so, they'll park themselves on the Krispy Kreme roof from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, August 20. Customers who donate money will get a sweet treat in return, ranging from a free Original Glazed doughnut to a complimentary doughnut party for generous corporations, organizations or individuals donating $1,000 or more.

Krispy Kreme: 6761 Veterans Parkway in Columbus, Ga.; 706-320-2124.

Helping Make the Workday Delicious: Chicken and the Egg is Now Serving Lunch!

Just when you thought it couldn’t get any better, after being open just one week Chef/Owner Marc Taft and Executive Chef Joseph Ramaglia are now offering lunch at Chicken and the Egg!  With their “meat and three” format and a variety of à la carte options there’s something to satisfy every appetite.  Ranging from $7 to $12, each lunch includes seasonal ingredients from local farms and purveyors as well as sustainable beef, poultry, and seafood.  Pair that with hand-crafted cocktails by Mixologist Brandon King and an indulgent dessert by Pastry Chef Karie Brown and you’ve got a tasty trifecta to help you get through your workday.  Chicken and the Egg is open for lunch weekdays from 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., brunch on weekends and dinner nightly.

It's Follow Friday; Meet our Tweep of the Week @jollymom

Piera Jolly out of Lawrenceville, Ga. is one of Nielsen's 50 Power Moms!  The wife/mom/wannabe photographer and cookbook author founded her Jolly Mom blog as an outlet for her passions.  Jolly tweets (@jollymom) save-ry tips on giveaways, bargains and food finds.  


Her blog passes on more details on the latest trends for moms and kids, crafts, parenting info and child-friendly activities.  Oh yeah, and recipes to help you crank those meals out!

Next Food Network Star Finale is Sunday

Yeah, yeah, we already know that Atlantan Justin Balmes is not going to win in Sunday night's finale but that doesn't mean he's not destined to be a Food Network Star! Justin is way more than a flash in the pan, having spent the last 13 years working in the restaurant industry as executive chef, caterer, food stylist, educator/presenter, team leader at Whole Foods, fishmonger and most recently, butcher.

Tune in at 8 p.m. to see Justin on the Reunion Show and to catch the Finale. Show your support for our hometown contestant by *liking* Justin on his Facebook page. You'll be glad to say you knew him before he got famous!

Back To School Meals And Summer Weekends Are Extra Special In August

Even though school buses are rolling, there's still six weeks of summer to go. New York Butcher Shoppe has August specials to calm hectic school night meal planning, to make weekend cookouts a cinch and to even ease you out the door for end-of-summer getaways. Early week specials earn an A+ in fast oven-to-table skills with marinated chicken, cheddar/bacon- or Greek-flavored boneless stuffed pork chops, mac 'n' cheese and all-natural frozen veggies. Weekend grill fests and gatherings cry out for C.A.B. ribeye steaks, wild-caught Alaskan salmon, the Americana Grill Master package or the new finger lickin' good Ribs package with Causey's BBQ sauce. If you can't get away, the August Xplorador Wine promo at the Sandy Springs and Alpharetta locations brings the vineyards of Chile to your glass. Concha Y Toro Xplorador Chardonnay, Merlot and Cabernet are $7.99 a bottle.

New York Butcher Shoppe: Dunwoody at 2458 Mt. Vernon Road; 770-399-6328. Sandy Springs at 4969 Roswell Road; 404-303-0704. Alpharetta at 5354 McGinnis Ferry Road; 678-624-0047.

Smash. Sizzle. Savor. Smashburger In Johns Creek Is Now Open!

Get “smashed” at Johns Creek newest addition, Smashburger, today! Smashburger has opened its doors for lunch and dinner to offer sizzling burgers, sandwiches, fries and more. These savory dishes are perfect for going out for a “fast-casual” meal with your family or friends.

Smashburger takes pride in its Certified Angus Beef burgers that are “smashed” on the grill to sear in the juices. For all Georgia locations, guests can indulge in the Atlanta burger that includes peach BBQ sauce, Wicked® Pimina cheese, grilled jalapenos and vidalia coleslaw all on an egg bun. Along with its savory burgers, Smashburger also serves marinated Smashchicken sandwiches, Smashdogs and Smashsalads ($3.99-$6.99). Kids meals are $3.99 and Smashsides (including my favorite: sweet potato smashfries with rosemary, olive oil and garlic) run from $1.99- $2.99. Kids of all ages can also enjoy Häagen-Dazs shakes and root beer floats. For the adults, beer and wine are sold as well. Check out the Buckhead location's menu to tempt your taste buds. Smashburger is destined to be a "smash" hit!

Smashburger - Johns Creek: 9775 Medlock Bridge Road; 770-497-6274.

Atkins Park Tavern Takes Ping Pong to a Whole New Level

If you're a ping pong pro, Atkins Park Tavern in Virginia Highland has the perfect event for you. New Belgium Brewing Company has joined forces with the neighborhood tavern to host a six-week ping pong tournament that starts tomorrow. The only casualties will be pride, and spoils include $1,000 in cash and prizes. Balls fly at 10:30 p.m. every Wednesday night until the big final showdown and party on September 14. Weekly winners take home points to apply toward the finals along with house cash and New Belgium Brewing Company gear. Practice pong makes perfect -- the ping pong table is set up Monday to Wednesday from 10:30 p.m. until closing. Whether you're winning or watching, you won't want to miss the action!

Atkins Park Tavern - Virginia Highland: 794 North Highland; 404 -876-7249.

Aqua blue Toasts to Ten Years at Anniversary Party on Wednesday

Tomorrow marks the end of the 10-day anniversary celebration at Aqua blue in Roswell, and the restaurant has saved the best for last. The finale features groovy tunes from Atlanta's own FunkyStuf 70s band and complimentary cake and champagne in addition to the $20.01 prix fixe menu and $5 small plates and drink specials. Guests can also register to win a free meal a week for a year! Ten percent of the night's sales will be donated to Special Olympics Georgia, so you can have your cake and help out a good cause, too. Visit Aqua blue on Facebook for more details.

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

Counter Culture Gets A Whole New Meaning at No. 246

Photo Credit: Helena Peixoto

The bite about reality cooking shows is that you watch the chefs…then the “experts” get to eat.  You get nothing. Not so when you sit down to the new Chef’s Counter dining option at newly opened No. 246.  Watch Chef Drew Belline in action?  Check.  Close-up views?  Check.  Eat?  Five courses, coming your way, Tuesday through Sunday each week! 

For $50 per person, Chef’s Counter guests dine on a five-course menu of Italian-inspired cuisine served directly to them by the chefs who prepared the dishes, who can answer questions and who can make drink pairing suggestions.  No. 246 usually doesn’t take reservations… in this instance reservations can be made for two or four people at 6:30 p.m. or 9 p.m.   Note any dietary restrictions when making your reservation.