Fall and Spring Internship Opportunities at MLA

Are you a student who is passionate about food/ wine culture and public relations? Melissa Libby & Associates is currently seeking an intern for the remainder of fall 2011 and also for our spring 2012 program.  Interns will join the MLA team to work directly with all facets of agency life, including media communications, social media, events and client services. Creativity, positive energy and great writing skills are very important.

The ideal candidate will receive school credit for their experience with MLA.  Our internships are unpaid and 15 hours per week.  We strive to make it a hands-on experience that our interns can definitely benefit from in the future.  To find out more about Melissa Libby & Associates, please visit our website and our Facebook page.  If you are interested, please send your resume and availability to atlantadish@gmail.com. Please be sure to specify which semester you are interested in – fall or spring. Good luck!

Treat Yourself To Halloween Debauchery This Weekend!

Ready to haunt the streets of this city? It's all treats and no tricks when it comes to finding something fun to do in Atlanta this Halloween!

All three Smashburger locations are featuring a special Halloween deal for children under age 12. If they wear their Halloween costume to Smashburger on Friday, October 28 through Monday, October 31, they'll be treated to a free meal when their parent purchases a meal.

Get two for one at Atkins Park Tavern in Smyrna on Saturday, October 29 when they host both the Smyrna Beer Fest and their own 9th annual Halloween celebration. From 1 - 6 p.m., there will be more than 100 beers to sample, live music, costume and pumpkin carving contests, bobbing for apples and more. The Halloween celebration kicks in from 10:30 p.m. - 2:30 a.m. with a live DJ in the bar, more costume contests and other Halloween-inspired activities and decorations.

Over in Virginia Highland, Atkins Park Tavern kicks off Halloween with their annual pumpkin carving contest on Thursday, October 27 at 8 p.m. Join friends for a night of pumpkin carving, beer drinking, scary movie watching on the big screen and a chance to win great house prizes. On Saturday, October 29, DJ Lion spins tunes beginning at 9 p.m. followed by the Tavern's annual costume contest at the witching hour. And on Monday, October 31, get ready for the Halloween Hangover when Atkins Park serves up a trio including the "Rocky Horror Picture Show," Terrapin Big Happy Monster and Monday Night Football.

Dig those skeletons out of the closet and party your bones off at your nearest Marlow's Tavern on Saturday, October 29. All eight locations are hosting Halloween shindigs from 9 p.m. until 1 a.m. There's no cover charge to attend, but you definitely want to come up with a costume -- you might win cash, gift certificates or other prizes. Music? You bet your bones there's a DJ or live music, depending on the location.

At Fadó Irish Pub & Restaurant, the "Thriller Monster Bash: A Retro 80s Halloween Party" brings the 80s to life on Saturday, October 29. A spooky holiday and a kooky decade (fashion-wise) go together like tricks and treats when Fadó gets tricked out in full Halloween décor for the spooktacular event. Specialty cocktails come at a $5 treat of a price, and a DJ spins 80s tunes from 9 p.m. into the wicked wee hours. Why be shy about dressing up? Costumes are expected, and all are encouraged to enter the midnight costume contest for a chance to take home $1,001 in cash. There's a $5 cover charge for the 9 p.m. bash, although ladies get in free.

Aqua blue dresses up as "Aqua Boo!" for their 10th annual Halloween Monster Bash on Saturday, October 29. So what are you going to wear? Decisions, decisions! Do you go all out or do your best to be the worst for the 11 p.m. costume contest? Dressed up or down, you can still imbibe in specially priced creepy cocktails and gobble up ghoulish appetizers. The regular á la carte menu is available from 4 p.m. on into the witching hours. A DJ spins dance hits starting at 9 p.m.

RA Sushi doles out Boo Bites and Potent Potions at their Halloween night "Boo Bash 2011" on Monday, October 31. The fun starts at 8 p.m. as the DJ spins his haunting mix and thrills guests until closing. Dress up and enter the "Boo Bash" costume contest. Read up and RSVP on Facebook.

The Iberian Pig is a true party animal this Halloween night, lining up Decatur restaurants and bars for a Halloween Pub Crawl at 8 p.m. on Monday, October 31. The cost is $45 per person, which covers one featured drink at each stop. Look for a smoking punchbowl at the Iberian Pig along with snacks. Wear a costume and take part in the Brickstore's annual costume contest (hint, prizes) at tour's end. Other participating restaurants and bars include Square Pub, Mac McGee's, Eddie's Attic and Leon's Full Service.

For those in Marietta, Cumming and Suwanee, kids eat free at all four Chepe's locations on Halloween! Kids in costume on Monday, October 31, will receive one free kids meal with the purchase of an adult entree.

Visit The Dish for more Halloween details.

Knocking Out Breast Cancer One Smashburger At A Time

There's still time to help "smash" breast cancer during Breast Cancer Awareness Month. On Wednesday, October 26, metro Atlanta's three Smashburger locations will donate a percentage of the day's sales to the Susan G. Komen Foundation. Chances are that you know someone who has been affected by this terrible disease. Knock it out, one Atlanta Smashburger, avocado club or spicy Baja at a time!

Atlanta Chefs Show Off Pumpkin Carving Prowess This Thursday

Thinking about carving your pumpkin but need a little inspiration? Watch local chefs battle it out for the top pumpkin carver crown at the Atlanta Botanical Garden's Fest-of-Ale on Thursday, October 27 from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. We'll be cheering for Chef Janine Falvo of Briza as she cuts her way through the competition during the 25-minute contest (and if you miss seeing her at the pumpkin carving contest, you can catch her on Bravo's Top Chef Season 9, which starts on November 2). Guests are encouraged to clap loudly for their favorites as audience applause determines the winner. Once a winner has been picked, all of the chef-carved pumpkins will be sold in a silent auction to benefit the Garden, giving you another chance at an eye-catching jack-o-lantern for your own home.

Gear Up For Atkins Park Smyrna's Wii Bowling Tournament

Atkins Park is once again taking bar games to the next level. Get a crew together and find out who's kingpin (or queen) of the Wii bowling alley when Atkins Park - Smyrna rolls out a six-week Wii bowling tournament beginning at midnight on October 25. Anyone who wants to join in on the fun is welcome to participate in the tournament.

There's no sign up or league fee, and bowling shirts and shoes are optional. Best of all, each night's first- and second-place victors will walk away with house cash! Your points will add up week by week, and at the end of the six week bowling brouhaha, a tournament winner will be announced. The grand prize winner will receive a Fat Tire Cruiser bike, so get your team together now and start practicing your virtual bowling game so you can win this sweet ride! Follow along on Facebook.

Atkins Park Tavern: 2840 Atlanta Road SE, Smyrna; 770.435.1887

Aria's Kathryn King at Sunday Supper South This Weekend

Sunday Supper South, a regional version of the successful NYC Chelsea Market event, was awesome last year and it's already time for round two! This year's event includes Pastry Chef Kathryn King from Aria as one of the visionary chefs and artisans participating in the family-style Friends of James Beard Benefit Dinner. More than 25 James Beard Foundation award-winning and prominent chefs from across the Southeast will gather to honor Southern cooking in the revitalized Westside Provisions District. The evening has a philanthropic goal: to raise money for the culinary scholarship program funded by the not-for-profit James Beard Foundation (a 501 (c)(3) organization.) Following a 5 p.m. reception, 150 guests will gather around a very long communal table for an evening planned by hosts Anne Quatrano and Clifford Harrison of Bacchanalia, Quinones at Bacchanalia, Abattoir, Floataway Café and Star Provisions. Chew more details on Facebook.

Our Appetizing Aperture of the Week

Who says Halloween has to be all about candy? We have our eyes on these spooky doughnuts that we spotted at the Columbus Krispy Kreme on 6761 Veterans Parkway. The Krispy Skremes! Jack-o-lantern, chocolate iced with Halloween sprinkles, spider web and pumpkin spice cake doughnuts are available for a limited time only! 

Come Enjoy the Cooler Weather in No. 246’s Backyard

No. 246 has opened the restaurant’s backyard just in time for you to drink and dine as you enjoy the fall weather. With a deck built around a tree, guest seating and an herb garden, this is not the standard restaurant backyard. Diners should also make plans to come back once the new ping pong table arrives. The Italian-inspired eatery does not accept reservations for outdoor dining, but guests are welcome to make a reservation for the main dining room.

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

This sweet thing has a long short list of things she wants to do. Her mantra: life is full of sugar and spice and trying to find the time to taste it all is short and sweet. Read Betsy Clay's tweets (@shugartandspice), and you'll note that waiting for planes seems to eat up a bit of her clock.  When she has more time to write, she taps out "the busy girls guide to food in a flash" sweetly and succinctly on her Shugart & Spice blog.

When The New York Butcher Shoppe & Swine Are Involved, How Can It Not Be Dandy?

No butts about it, this weekend's smokin' contest is going to be one Swine & Dandy Charity Cookoff with New York Butcher Shoppe as a sponsor and participant! Pro and "backyard" teams will compete in chicken, ribs, pork butt and brisket categories with a $7,500 purse to be awarded to top entries in overall and individual categories. Attendees purchasing barbecue samples may vote for the "People's Choice" award.

The mouthwatering barbecue event takes place on Friday and Saturday, October 21-22 at Rogers Bridge Park in Duluth and is open to the public from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. on Saturday. Event entry is free and includes cooking demonstrations and live country and blue grass music. Purchase food, barbecue samples, brews and beverages, and access to family-friendly activities including inflatables, small carnival rides, a cakewalk and a pumpkin patch. Click here for Atlanta New York Butcher Shoppe locations.

Taste of Atlanta Returns and The Big Grill Premiers: It's a Foodie Weekend You Won't Want to Miss!

The age old dilemma of wanting to order everything on the menu is solved, at least temporarily, with Taste of Atlanta this weekend, a foodie’s heaven on earth. Those friends who always "just want a taste" of whatever you ordered will love Taste of Atlanta and so will you. The city’s biggest sampling bacchanalia kicks off its 10th anniversary celebration with The Big Grill - A Midtown Block Party in Tech Square on Friday, October 21 from 7:30-10:30 p.m. (VIP entry 6:30 p.m.). Birthday cake, beer and some of the best bites in the ATL rock this party benefiting Georgia Organics. Among the stellar chefs at the grill gig are Andrew Smith of Atkins Park and Ormsby's, Todd Annis of Bold American Events & Catering, Janine Falvo of Briza, Joshua Warner of Ray's on the River, Ford Fry of JCT. Kitchen & Bar and Drew Belline of No. 246. Tickets are $50 each for general admission and $65 each for VIP early entry.

The Taste of Atlanta eat-a-palooza begins at 11 a.m. on Saturday and Sunday, October 22-23, and keeps on dishing it out until 6 p.m. both evenings, so pace yourself for a full afternoon of food sampling paradise. More than 80 of Atlanta’s favorite restaurants will be represented including Atkins Park, Briza, Double Zero Napoletana, JCT. Kitchen & Bar, Iberian Pig, No. 246, Ormsby's and Ray's on the River.

On the Home Plate Main Stage on Saturday, Chef Janine Falvo from Briza will whip up chicken pot pie and red kuri squash soup at 12 p.m. Chefs Drew Belline (No. 246) and Ford Fry (JCT. Kitchen & Bar) will be leading a "Simply Southern Thanksgiving" class with Angie Mosier of the Southern Foodways Alliance inside the Food Studio at 4 p.m. Saturday. On Sunday at 4:00 p.m., they'll take on Rosebud's Ron Eyester and Nick Melvin in the Team Chef Challenge, an "Iron Chef"-style competition, on the Home Plate Main Stage. Also on Sunday, Iberian Pig Chef Chad Crete will prepare farro risotto, roasted delicata squash, piquillo-hazelnut Romesco and fall vegetable sauté on the Global Flavors stage at 2:15 p.m. And Andrew Smith from Atkins Park and Ormsby's battles it out against Food 101's Justin Keith in the Dueling Chefs event at 1:15 p.m. Don’t fret mom and dad, there’s something for the kids too! Even picky eaters will devour Taste of Atlanta -- the Family Food Zone loads up on food-focused crafts, educational demos and kid chef competitions!

Snap up your tickets early for this wristband-access, gated event. Buy a general admission ticket voucher with 10 taste coupons for $25 in advance online or at The Cook's Warehouse stores or Whole Foods. "Day of" gate price is $35 each.

Take a Bite at Tapas & Wine and Lend a Helping Hand for Primus Sanders at Ray's at Killer Creek October 21 and 22

What better way to explore the flavors of Spain than with a spread of tapas and six different wines to indulge in at Ray’s Killer Creek on Friday, October 21 at 7 p.m.

Chef Tracey Bloom is crafting casual tapas such as pork belly with quail egg, pernil (roasted Spanish pork), chorizo and manchego quesadillas, stuffed piquillo peppers and much more. To top it all off, Sommelier Phillip Cooper has paired these scrumptious Spanish snacks with six different wines. The whole team at MLA can vouch for this menu after tasting a preview of the tapas this week – deeeelish! The Tapas & Wine event at Ray’s is $35 per person (excluding tax and gratuity). Seating is limited, so call 770-649-0064 to purchase tickets ahead of time.

Can’t get enough of Ray’s at Killer Creek? Come back on Saturday, October 22 when Ray’s at Killer Creek holds a fundraiser at the restaurant to benefit Primus Sanders, a six-year employee of Ray's at Killer Creek who experienced a tragic fall in April that left him wheelchair bound. Since then, the Ray's at Killer Creek staff and community have rallied to raise funds to help cover his medical care and rehabilitation. Seize the opportunity to help out on Saturday, October 22 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. when the Alpharetta restaurant holds a car wash and yard sale at Ray's at Killer Creek. All proceeds will assist Primus' recovery program through the Primus Sanders Foundation. And while you're there, come inside for lunch!

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

A Final Supper with Spice Route Supper Club

There are only 50 seats available for the final Spice Route Supper Club event filling Café Jonah on Saturday, October 22 at 7 p.m. No crying over onions or spice during the Kerala, India meal served family style. It may be the last “Supper Club” event; however, the menu will be a slice of what to expect when Asha Gomez opens Cardamom Hill restaurant in Midtown later this year. Two things to do when reserving your seat at spiceroutesupperclub@gmail.com:  prepay $150/person and give a heads up if you’re vegetarian. 

Get Crafty at Atkins Park Tavern in Smyrna Tomorrow Night

No need to channel Martha Stewart, we're talking about craft beers. You won't want to miss out on this chance to celebrate the crafty side of American brews at the American Craft Beer Dinner tomorrow, October 18, at Atkins Park Tavern in Smyrna. Starting at 7 p.m., the event features a five-course menu paired with five of the nation’s leading craft-style brews. Gear up your taste buds for dishes like Vidalia onion tarts with chèvre cheese and peach jalapeño jam paired with Terrapin Golden Ale; seared duck with glazed cherry reduction and sweet potato and pumpkin risotto served with Ommegang Hennepin Farmhouse Saison; and caramel and espresso torte with sea salt paired with Abita Turbodog. Cost is $45 per person; call 770-435-1887 to save a spot.

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

Our Appetizing Aperture of the Week

Cheers! This October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and Fleming's is pitching in.  Try the "Stiletto" -- 100 percent of the proceeds from the sale of the drink will be donated back to theAvon Breast Cancer Crusade. You also can feel good when you choose to sip on Cline Cashmereat Fleming's.  Cline is making a $25,000 donation to Living Beyond Breast Cancer during the month of October in conjunction with the sale of Cashmere. 

Do the Market Mash-Up at Peachtree Road Farmers Market

At the second annual Market Mash-Up at the Peachtree Road Farmers Market on Saturday, October 15, you'll benefit from a 10-team draft uniting farmers and purveyors of locally made food.  From 9 a.m. to noon, guests will sample tempting dishes from teams you've surely heard of, such as Spotted Trotter, Red Queen Tarts, Indian Ridge, Hope's Gardens, Riverview Farms, H&F Bread, Greenleaf Farms and more.  Two hundred and fifty tasting tickets are available and will be for sale at $5 each (buys tasting of all 10 dishes) starting at 9 a.m.  Tasting runs from 10-11 a.m. or until sold out.  Guests fork up samples, vote for favorites and pick up recipes of the Mash-Up dishes.  Celebrity judges will choose a victor among the 10 teams.  This year's judges include Kim Severson, Atlanta bureau chief of The New York Times and author of Spoon Fed; Christiane Lauterbach, dining critic forAtlanta magazine and Knife & Fork; Jennifer Zyman, editor of The Blissful Glutton and Eater Atlanta; and Emily Smith, CNN Eatocracy contributor. 

More than 50 silent auction items will be up for bid that morning.  The event pays forward, helping fund the market's 2012 city permit fees and city-required police officer.  The PRFM is the largest producer-only market in metro Atlanta, meaning that everything at the market has been grown, raised or made by the seller and ensuring fair prices for both vendor and consumer.  Lauren Carey, PRFM manager, sums it up, "Accessibility to fresh local produce is a gift; it means so much more to shake the hand of the farmer that grew the vegetables on your dinner plate." 

It's Follow Friday: Meet Our Tweep of the Week @frugalfoodieJG

When you're a foodie on a budget (and who isn't these days), you savor each restaurant on your hit list, appreciating every bite.   Julie Gallien tweets (@frugalfoodieJG) of her finds and daily life and offers up bigger portions on her Nourishment on a Plate blog!

Diamonds Are Forever But Il Borro's Toscano Is Only For A Limited Time

If the name sounds familiar, it is. Salvatore Ferragamo, Il Borro Winery proprietor, is the grandson of the famed footwear designer Ferragamo. Lineage aside, this Ferragamo is all about the wines of Tuscany's Il Borro Winery and creating the newest private-label wine -- Forty-Six Diamonds Toscana 2009 -- for Fleming's Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar. Il Borro premium wines have graced Fleming's reserve wine list for many years.

This year's limited-edition private-label wine represents a delicious collaboration between Ferragamo, Il Borro Winemaker Nicolò D'Afflitto and Fleming's Wine Director Maeve Pesquera. The Sangiovese for the blend comes from Politi Vineyard, which provides the ideal elevation, Pliocene lake soil and southwestern exposure to turn out Tuscany's famed grape. Taste the artistry and note the artwork of internationally renowned artist and wine aficionado Thomas Arvid on the wine labels and on Fleming's walls.

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

Get Wild at Zoo Atlanta's Jazzoo on October 15

Calling all party animals, Zoo Atlanta's fourth annual Jazzoo is on Saturday, October 15 from 6:30 - 11 p.m. Plan on bringing your beastly appetite because Spice Market, RA Sushi and Uncle Julio's Fine Mexican Food are among the 25 popular Atlanta restaurants that will be providing food for the event. Visit your favorite exhibits as you hit up the fully stocked bar or check out the four stages with entertainment provided by Eddie's Attic, Dr. Stech and Nervous Habit and Yacht Rock.

Leave the traditional coat and tails at home, "creative cocktail" attire is required at this party. Shorts, flip-flops, sequins, bow ties and animal prints will land you on the best dressed list. All-inclusive tickets are priced at $100 each (VIP tickets/$150 each); rain or shine, no refunds. Ages 21 and over only, and please have ID. SafeRide will provide "tips only" rides home within a 15-mile radius and $2 per mile beyond that. Proceeds support Zoo Atlanta programs and fund field trips for disadvantaged children and schools.

Meet and Eat with Aria's Gerry Klaskala at Falcons Game This Sunday

This Sunday, October 16 at 1 p.m., the Atlanta Falcons are taking on the Carolina Panthers at the Georgia Dome, and in addition to watching Carolina and Atlanta, guests can also get a taste of both teams' turf from Aria Owner/Executive Chef Gerry Klaskala. Klaskala is manning the local chef stand inside the 2View Restaurant located in the east end zone of the Dome on the executive concourse. He's making Carolina jumbo lump crab cakes with spicy mustard sauce and Georgia white shrimp Savannah-style salad. Game-goers can ditch the hot dogs and meet Klaskala and taste his creations instead while watching the fun on the field. As longtime fans of Aria, we know the food is sure to be as good as the football game!

Lasso in Some Good Eats By Atlanta Chefs (and ride a mechanical bull) For a Good Cause At The Crystal Boots and Silver Saddles Gala on October 14

Giddy-up y’all! It’s time to shine up those belt buckles and throw on your favorite cowboy hat for the fifth annual Crystal Boots and Silver Saddles gala. Food lovers in western wear will be riding high at the event which benefits the Ovarian Cancer Institute on Friday, October 14 from 7 -11 p.m. at Mason Murer Fine Art.

Fifteen Atlanta chefs play chuck wagon boss, hosting food stations to fuel guests and spur them along through exciting casino, auction, raffle and line dancing activities. Some of Atlanta's "most wanted" chefs will be there, including Ford Fry of JCT. Kitchen & Bar, E.J. Hodgkinson of Woodfire Grill and Gerry Klaskala of Aria. Lasso in some tasty libations courtesy of Grey Goose Vodka and Barefoot wine, and enjoy jamming out to the live band, Talk Journey to Me. Be sure to do a few stretches before testing your cowboy skills on the mechanical bull, and don’t forget about the jailhouse! See the event website for the sponsorship level/ticket form.

Crystal Boots and Silver Saddles is a 501(c)(3) organization assisting the not-for-profit foundation, the Ovarian Cancer Institute. Ovarian cancer ranks fifth as the cause of cancer deaths in women and is difficult to detect.

Play Bocce for Breast Cancer with Double Zero!

As you probably know, October is Breast Cancer Awareness month, and if you’re looking for a new and exciting way to support the cause, look no further!  This Thursday, October 13 at 6 p.m. you can play bocce in support of the Susan G. Komen 3-Day for the Cure at Double Zero Napoletana's first ever bocce charity event!  For just $5 a person, you’ll not only play for the cure, but one lucky tournament winner will also get a trophy, a magnum of reserve wine, and free Double Zero Margherita pizza every Sunday in 2012!  In addition to the bocce festivities, Double Zero is hosting a silent auction starting at 6:30 p.m.  All proceeds plus 20 percent of the evening’s restaurant sales will go to support the 3-day walk.  You can bid on fabulous prizes like an illy espresso machine, a Salon Greco Spa gift package, a reserve wine basket and more.  Still not convinced?  Tournament and auction guests are also invited to partake in a complimentary wine tasting on the outdoor courts.  If you can’t make it to the event, you can always donate online or stop by any Castellucci Hospitality Group restaurant this month.  The restaurants are mixing up special pink cocktails during October and donating the proceeds to the walk.  There are so many different ways to get involved, so come out and help Double Zero end breast cancer for good!

RLife LIVE Returns to Briza on Friday with Matthew Mayfield

Esquire magazine and Renaissance Hotels will host emerging artist Matthew Mayfield in a special acoustic performance at Briza as part of the RLife LIVE global entertainment program on Friday, October 14 at 9 p.m.  If you're a "Grey's Anatomy" follower, you've probably heard some of Mayfield's songs.  His hits have topped the iTunes singer/songwriter charts -- claiming #1 status several times -- and he's recently released a new album, Now You're Free. The versatile artist has an online series covering hits by Britney Spears, U2, Radiohead and others.

RLife LIVE is Renaissance Hotels' global entertainment program dedicated to providing hotel guests and local patrons with an intimate and up-close look into music, culinary arts, film, arts and more.  During the show, nationally acclaimed bartender Chris McMillan will craft one of his classic cocktails featuring Belvedere Vodka to complement full bar offerings. Be sure to RSVP on Facebook for this event!

Sip a Skinny Stiletto for a Good Cause

We girls just love our stilettos. Well, we do for five minutes until our feet start hurting! But The Stiletto at Fleming's will make you want to linger. Not only is this a 99-calorie cocktail priced at $6 before 7 p.m. but one hundred percent of the proceeds from this drink goes to the Avon Breast Cancer Crusade. Be sure to stop by and have one in October. After that, you might want to try the recipe below at home!

Fleming's is also recognizing Breast Cancer Awareness Month by partnering with Cline Cellars to raise funds for Living Beyond Breast Cancer (LBBC). Cline Cashmere will be featured by the glass on Fleming's 5-6-7 menu thorough Monday, October 31. Silky smooth Cashmere tickles with big cherry, raspberry and chocolate notes with hints of cracked black pepper and plum. Always a charmer, pink ribbon wine charms from Cline will dress up Cashmere purchases while supplies last. Cline has contributed more than $200,000 to breast cancer foundations over the years; this year, they'll make a $25,000 donation to LBBC. Learn more on the winery's website.

The Stiletto

Prepared By Maeve Pesquera, Director of Wine

Serves 1

Ingredients:

1.25 oz. Hendrick's Gin

5 fresh blackberries

1 oz. Monin Sugar Free

0.5 oz. lime juice

As needed, top with diet ginger ale.

Directions:

Muddle blackberries with Monin Sugar Free. Add Hendrick's Gin. Shake. Strain and pour into martini glass. Top with diet ginger ale. Garnish with two blackberries on a black bar pick.

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

Our Appetizing Aperture of the Week

When fall weather really hits, the best dinners are often the comforting ones!  We love Chicken and the Egg's spin on a comfort classic, Chicken and Dumplings.

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

Tara Raun has a saucy mouth, and she knows it.  Flaunts it.  Tweets it. Blogs under it. The creator of SaucyMouth.com and Saucy's Seasoning virtually invites readers into her kitchen where she relishes sharing foodie and family experiences.  Not only that, she's bi-coastal with Eugene, OR roots and Atlanta branches.  Catch her tweets (@TheSaucyMouth) for small, saucy doses.

Celebrate Pride in Style at Briza and Rooftop 866 on October 8

This weekend is the Atlanta Pride Festival and the perfect way to end a day of celebrating is at the Official Passport After-Party at Briza and Rooftop 866 in Midtown on Saturday, October 8.  DJ Scorpio and Evafe will handle the music and entertainment.  Plus, the party is hosted by Nicole Paige-Brooks and will feature performances by Shawnna Brooks, Latesha Shante Shuntel, Gia Sunflowers and Angelica D' Paige!  Enjoy drink specials all night and enter for a chance to win a weekend stay with champagne and strawberries at the Renaissance Atlanta Midtown Hotel!  The party starts at 9 p.m. so don’t be late!

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

October Is The Month To Celebrate Books That Help You Cook

Devoured a good cookbook lately? October is National Cookbook Month, and we have a (recyclable) shopping bag full of tantalizing cookbooks to chew! Near and dear to our aprons is Atlanta Cooks at Home, which highlights Atlanta's prominent chefs and dangles personal interviews between their recipes including plans for easy and noteworthy entertaining. Virginia Willis' newly released cookbook, Basic to Brilliant, Y'all: 150 Refined Southern Recipes and Ways to Dress Them Up for Company, is destined to be a staple in any modern Southern kitchen. Open Spice Market's newest release, Asian Flavors of Jean-Georges, for global inspiration. The Spice Kitchen: Everyday Cooking with Organic Spices by Katie Luber and Sara Engram is another spicy hot read.

From the sweet-tea brined pork shoulder to making sausage, Libbie Summers shows how to honor every succulent porcine part in The Whole Hog Cookbook: Chops, Loin, Shoulder, Bacon, and All That Good Stuff. Quick-Fix Southern: Homemade Hospitality in 30 Minutes or Less by Rebecca Lang appeals to mouths craving tastes of the South but stuck with hands short on time. When you've completed this year's reading, get pumped for the fall 2012 release of Kevin Gillespie's Fire in My Belly.

Touch Down With John Metz at the Falcons Game on October 9th

Those Green Bay Packers can keep their cheeseheads; Marlow's Tavern and Aqua blue Chef/Owner John Metz is bringing the heat to the Georgia Dome at the Atlanta Falcons home game on Sunday, October 9 at 8:20 p.m. Talk food, or football, with Metz inside 2View Restaurant located in the Dome's east end zone on the Executive concourse (near the suites).

Take your game-day eats to the next level and pass on the dogs and nachos. 2View will be preparing some of Chef Metz's signature rave-worthy recipes for you to purchase and savor. Sounds like a fantastic place to touch down that night!

Drink to a Good Cause at Double Zero Napoletana

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month and the time of year when dedicated individuals and groups put their walking shoes on for the 60-mile trek known as the Susan G. Komen 3-Day for the Cure. Double Zero Napoletana in Sandy Springs is serving pink cocktails throughout October and donating 25 percent of the drink proceeds to the cause. At $11 apiece, the Blackberry Ginny, Pink Panther, Pink Ribbon, the Cure, Pink Lady, the 3/60 or the Raspberry Lynne will be sure to give you a charitable buzz. For those looking for an alcohol free way to contribute, try the Ribbon Refresher for $6.

Double Zero's Nancy and Stephanie Castellucci are walking on Team Gingersnap, honoring two close family members who lost the battle against the disease. Guests at all Castellucci Hospitality Group restaurants (Double Zero Napoletana, The Iberian Pig and Sugo) can also add a donation to their checks or online at www.the3day.org/goto/chg through the month of October.

Chop Chop! Head to Aqua blue for Chop Month

Pork chops and lamb chops are title cuts, still, chop-lickin' salads, chicken and signature drink specials are more headliners when Chop Month begins tonight at Aqua blue in Roswell!  The Chop Month menu will complement Aqua blue's award-winning á la carte and Blue Ribbon sushi menus through Monday, November 7.  


Look for the Aqua blue "Chop" salad on the starter list with hearts of palm, basil, Gorgonzola, croutons and lemonette on a bed of mixed greens and romaine ($9), and a St. Louis-style hoisin rib chop with jicama and apple slaw ($12).  


Entrée features include bone-in spicy Guinness-marinated chicken ($19); Caribbean-spiced pork chop with Maker's Mark glaze, black currants and pineapple ($26); and Australian lamb chop with pistachio, horseradish crust, Madeira demi and mint ($30).  All entrées are served with a "loaded" crispy potato cake, sautéed spinach and jumbo asparagus. Chop Month sippers include the AB Classic Martini with Gorgonzola-stuffed olives ($8); the AB Manhattan Chop made with High West Double Rye Whiskey, Cocchi Vermouth di Torino, orange flower water and orange bitters ($10); 2008 Benziger Sangiacomo Vineyard Carneros Chardonnay ($8.50) and 2008 Trapiche Broquel Malbec ($10).

There’s Something Fishy Going on in Columbus

Calling all seafood fans!  Columbus, Ga. has a hot new spot for you to get your fish on!  Bonefish Grill is now open at 6763 Veterans Parkway in Columbus.  The polished, casual seafood restaurant is known for its generous portions, unique dishes, and its inventive use of fresh ingredients all cooked over a wood-burning grill.  Some of the more popular menu items include Mussels Josephine, Cajun chicken egg rolls, scampi-topped sirloin steak, ahi tuna with warm mango salsa and pecan/Parmesan-crusted rainbow trout, and the always delicious (and fun to order!) Bang Bang shrimp.  In addition, cocktails and an interesting wine list help complete the overall dining experience.  Dinner will be served nightly.  Reservations, although not required, are available by calling 706-321-2015.  Follow Bonefish Grill on Facebook or Twitter.

Bonefish Grill Columbus: 6783-2 Veterans Parkway; 706-321-2015.

A Burger That Will Blow You Away

If you're like me, you love everything about Chicago except the painfully cold weather. Lucky for us, a taste of Chicago is coming to our very own Smashburger locations this month with the Windy City Burger. This limited-time burger comes to us straight from Smashburger in Chicago and will be available at all three Atlanta-area Smashburger restaurants until the end of October, so get some Windy City flavor in while you can. The layers of melted cheddar cheese, haystack onions, lettuce, tomato and Gulden's spicy mustard are sure to be a smash hit among Atlantans. You can also check out Smashburger's website to enter to win a three-day, two-night trip to Chicago for two people in the restaurant's Windy City Sweepstakes. Head to Buckhead, Johns Creek or Alpharetta to get a taste of Chi Town before time runs out - and don't forget to visit Smashburger's Facebook page first to get coupons.

Our Appetizing Aperture of the Week: Spice Market's Vegetarian Bento Box

Did you know this Saturday, October 1 is World Vegetarian Day?  While you can usually only enjoy the deliciously satisfying Vegetarian Bento Box on Monday nights at Spice Market in Midtown, guests can also enjoy one this Saturday in honor of the day!  

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

Atlanta singles and couples needn't succumb to ho-hum dates with Date Night Mag on their Twitter radar.  

The Atlanta-based online magazine is your complete dating resource, covering advice, restaurants, activities, he said-she said and even ways to date when you have kids. Follow Date Night Mag on Twitter (@datenightmag).

We're Psyched for Sake at RA Sushi

Cheers! With 13 kinds of sake (12 from Japan and one from California) and two different sake flight options, RA Sushi in Midtown is the place to honor International Sake Day on Saturday, October 1.  RA Sushi's sushi rolls and Japanese-fusion specialties are proper companions to the sake menu options, as are your fellow sake-sipping friends!

Live Music, Beer, and Lederhosen: It's Fadóktoberfest Time at Fado!

If you thought Oktoberfest was a German celebration, think again!  Fadó Irish Pub & Restaurant is putting an Irish spin on the famous fall festival with Fadóktoberfest!  Their annual street party started six years ago and is still going strong, averaging 2,000 guests in attendance!  Doors open at 8 a.m. for live English Premier League action.  Then music by the Astral Freaks starts the street fest at 6 p.m., U2 cover band Desire takes over at 9:15 p.m., and a DJ will keep the party going for the rest of the night -- moving totally inside the pub from 11 p.m. until 2 a.m.  At 8 p.m. the feats of strength begin, with the Strongman Stein Holding Competition and a bratwurst eating contest!  So grab your Lederhosen and head down to Fadó!  Tickets are available through Spiral Entertainment; $10 in advance or $15 at the door.

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

Fun at the Farm This Sunday

One of our favorite foodie festivals is coming up this weekend: Field of Greens. And the weather is going to be perfect!!

The setting at Whippoorwhill Hollow Farm combined with delicious tastes from the best chefs in town just make it a great Sunday afternoon activity. Check it out Sunday, October 2 from 11 a.m. until 5 p.m. Chefs from Woodfire Grill, No. 246, JCT. Kitchen & Bar, Chicken and the Egg and Briza will be among the more than 50 food artisans in attendance. Slow Food Atlanta is the host and beneficiary. Whippoorwhill is a 74-acre certified organic farm located in Walnut Grove - a short 45-minute drive east of the Atlanta. Tickets are $20 in advance or $25 at the gate, and children 12 and under are admitted free! Sorry, Rover has to stay at home.

A YouTube video from 2010 presents a flavorful preview for newcomers, and Facebook has more details.

Get Your Caffeine Kick and Your Sugar Fix at Krispy Kreme in Columbus, GA for National Coffee Day

What better way to get through the work day than with a couple sips of caffeine and a few nibbles of sugar! In honor of National Coffee Day, September 29th, “on the house” literally means a free 12-ounce cup of House Blend Coffee from Krispy Kreme Doughnuts in Columbus, GA, and a free Hot Original Glazed® Doughnut too (And you thought cops were on top of the shop again)! Whether you are just passing by, or specifically heading to Krispy Kreme to cash in on this sweet deal, stop in or drive through for a complimentary cup and its perfect pairing, one of Krispy Kreme's sweet signature glazed doughnut.

The offer is limited to one complimentary coffee and doughnut per customer on September 29; no purchase necessary. This special is only at the Krispy Kreme at 6761 Veterans Parkway in Columbus, Ga.

Last Chance for Cocktails in the Garden This Season!

We like to think of it as a great way to greet this lovely fall weather, but truthfully, it's the last chance to sip, nosh and stroll through the Atlanta Botanical Garden after hours during one of our favorite summer cocktail parties known as Cocktails in the Garden. Get your fix tomorrow, September 29, from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. when No. 246, Decatur's hottest new restaurant, provides tastes of their Italian-inspired specialties. This month's theme, which pairs a specialty cocktail with a plant or garden feature, is "Skylines and Spirits." Admission costs $18.95 per person (free for Garden Members) and also includes DJ tunes. A full cash bar is available as well.

Cornhole For A Cause? Sign Me Up!

Beaches, backyards, bars...they've even been spotted entertaining athletes between competitions at sporting events. The cornhole craze has made its way to the back parking lot of Atkins Park Tavern in Virginia Highland for a cornhole tournament from 2 - 5 p.m. on Sunday, October 2. Live music from Homefront and SweetWater Brewery beer set the pace. Registration fees for the two-man teams are $25 per person/single or $50/team of two. Participants will receive one complimentary SweetWater beer with registration, and the Georgia Chapter of the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society Team in Training "wins" 100 percent of the proceeds. First place wins $400 and other prizes include a Krups Kegerator, restaurant and bar gift certificates, a SweetWater cornhole set and SweetWater Brewery tour passes. Call 404-876-7249 or stop by the restaurant to pre-register with the manager on duty.

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

May the Best Burger Win

Everyone loves a good burger. Combine eating delicious burgers and helping out a great cause, and you get Battle of the Burgers. Enjoy live music while sampling bites from Atkins Park Tavern, the New York Butcher Shoppe and other Atlanta restaurants. This year's event on Saturday, October 1 is at John Howell Park in Virginia-Highland. All proceeds support Embraced in its mission to collect and share gently used medical equipment locally and globally.

If you feel the need to burn some calories before chomping on some patties, register for the "Burger-Eating 5K Run" that starts at 9 a.m. Otherwise, show up from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. to get your fill of beer and burgers. Make sure you stick around and see who wins the "Judge's Choice, Best Burger" and to cast your vote for "People's Choice, Best Burger." Last year, Atkins Park Tavern delighted vegetarians with their meatless entry, taking home "People's Choice" in the division. Could they repeat this year? You'll have to come and see for yourself!

Pig Out at The Iberian Pig's Two Year Anniversary Celebration

They say pigs can’t fly, but The Iberian Pig has certainly soared to the top of the Decatur restaurant scene since it was opened by the Castellucci restaurant family two years ago. In honor of two years in business, The Iberian Pig is inviting Decatur residents and visitors to partake in their two-year anniversary and appreciation celebration beginning at 5 p.m. on Monday, September 26th.

Tune into your Latin side with live music by a Spanish trio and Tyson Bittrich and take in the artistic work of Hense as he unveils his new mural at 7 p.m. Enjoy food and drink specials all night like $3 Sherry Cañas -- a small Spanish snack and sherry; $6 glasses of sangria, cava and craft cocktails; and $5 "Haute" dogs. Suckling pigs will be slow roasted all day and carved in the dining room as tapas ($10). Call ahead if you want to reserve one solely for your table; $280 covers pig, salad and sides for 8-12 people and a bottle of wine.

Chefs will cut into Jamon Iberico de Bellota, aged for 48 months and procured when the bistro opened two years ago; it's the rarest and highest quality Jamon Iberico available! Try some at $18 per ounce. Experience the true flavor of Spain, paella, served for the first time at The Iberian Pig and priced at $16 for two and $32 for 4 people. Although reservations are suggested, go ahead and pop in if you're in the neighborhood.

The Iberian Pig: On the square in Decatur at 121 Sycamore Street; 404-371-8800.

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.