Who Remembers Prohibition? Atlanta's Oldest Continuously Licensed Tavern Does -- Atkins Park Tavern in Virginia Highland Hosts 1920s-Themed Prohibition Dinner and Party

Anyone remember prohibition?  Atkins Park Tavern in Virginia Highland does, because next month Atlanta’s oldest continuously licensed tavern turns the big 9-0 on Wednesday, February 29. That’s right; this tavern has been serving up great drinks and great food since the prohibition days of 1922. But unlike back in the day, this Prohibition dinner is no secret, so feel free to tell the whole gang! Guests will go bold with four cocktails and four plates including speakeasy snacks such as Devils on Horseback, Welsh rarebit, deviled eggs and salt roasted nuts paired with a Black Velvet cocktail; clams casino with Terrapin cask-conditioned rye pale ale (brewed with orange peel by Terrapin Owner/Brewmaster Spike Buckowski); medallions of lamb with sauce chasseur and asparagus au gratin with an Old Fashioned; and Chocolate Charlotte with burnt almond caramel and a Mint Julep. It’s no wonder there are only a few seats left; you get all this for only $40 per person! Hurry and call 404-876-7249 to secure your spot!

If you do miss out on the dinner, you get a second chance to join in on the fun! On Thursday, March 8 Atkins Park is hosting a Prohibition Party at 6 p.m. with a limited, open bar and a complimentary buffet until 7 p.m. A special Prohibition menu will replace the regular menu during dinner with specials including Scotch eggs, oysters Rockefeller, stuffed broiled lobster and suckling pig porchetta ($5-$24). Blair Crimmins & The Hookers will perform 1920s jazz, ragtime and blues beginning at 9 p.m. Want to win cash and prizes? Then wear roaring '20s attire and take part in the 10:30 p.m. costume contest. Prizes include $100 cash, a $25 Atkins Park gift certificate and 90^th anniversary bags will be awarded to the best-dressed male and female.  Then you can look good and feel good in the Photobooth sponsored by the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LSS). Each $5 photo donation will go to the 2012 Georgia Chain Gang and the team's endurance Race Across America for LLS. Visit this flapper-happy website or take a peek at some 1920s Atlanta photos to help prep yourself for this evening of fine, old-fashioned fun!

March Into The Week's Best Culinary News with Atlanta Dish

It's time to corral that coffee and head to The Dish for your weekly fix of culinary news around town! If you're not receiving the Dish every Tuesday morning in your inbox, you can sign up either here on our blog or on our Facebook page. 

Have Your Cake and Help Others Too - Alpine Bakery & Trattoria Teams Up with North Fulton Community Charities on Feb. 28

Do something to help your neighbor before the love month comes to an end. Alpine Bakery & Trattoria in Alpharetta shares the love Tuesday, February 28 by donating 10 percent of the day’s proceeds to Have a Heart for North Fulton Community Charities (NFCC). Italian food, NY-style pizza, sweet desserts, cupcakes and helping thy neighbor -- that’s finger-licking love. The fundraiser caps a month of awareness events for the non-profit human service agency dedicated to preventing homelessness of individuals residing north of the Chattahoochee River in Fulton County and to assisting families with basic needs such as food, rent, utilities and clothing during short-term emergencies. In 2011, NFCC distributed food more than 20,500 times, provided clothing vouchers to 2,000 families and gave $1.2 million to those in need of financial assistance. And hey, if you miss out tonight, NFCC also needs your help during the other 11 months of the year.

Just Say No to Sloppy Joes: Lunch Break for a Good Cause at JCT. Kitchen & Bar Tomorrow

On Wednesday, February 29, JCT. Kitchen & Bar Executive Chef/Owner Ford Fry and the makers of Hidden Valley® Salad Dressings will host a Lunch Break for Schools fundraiser to help schools stock up on fresh veggies and fruits rather than Sloppy Joes and French fries. Lunch guests who dine in at JCT. Kitchen or get it to go can enjoy Fry's $26 specialty lunch featuring crudités served with Original Ranch® Light, Maine lobster chopped salad with Meyer lemon “ranch” vinaigrette and a brown bag “afternoon snack” of Hidden Valley® Ranch oyster crackers. The fundraiser is one in a weeklong effort by restaurants across the U.S. to host Lunch Break for Schools events with net proceeds going to American Culinary Federation's Chef & Child Foundation (CCF) and the Chefs Move to Schools program. As a father of two, Fry is excited about contributing to this program that will increase nutrition education and lunchroom options for American children. Learn more online and join the Lunch Break for Schools discussion on Twitter (#LunchBreakForSchools).

Buckhead Restaurant Week Has Spirit, Yes They Do! How 'Bout You?

We know this will be a "spirited" week in Buckhead because American Spirit Whiskey is sponsoring Buckhead Restaurant Week February 25 - March 4, and Aria is participating with a special $35 menu. Dinner at Aria on East Paces Ferry is an epicurean experience not to be missed -- especially at the bargain price of $35 per person for the three-course, prix fixe menu (tax, gratuity and drinks not included). Make reservations online. American Spirit Whiskey pours their enthusiasm for the event into a signature Cherry Classic cocktail. You can find the recipe for the stirring mix of American Spirit Whiskey, Cherry Heering, Fernet Branca and Coca-Cola on the Buckhead Restaurant Week website.

It's Follow Friday; Meet Our Tweep Of The Week @ttobat88

 

Teresa Tobat (@ttobat88) is in the Zen zone with a healthy balance of publishing, puppy parenting and yoga poses in between her travels. Her upbeat tweets and pix will spin a positive view on your chilly winter days. Delve into the full-blown version on her blog.

Now Pinning - Atlanta Dish

 

It's official -- we've joined the fun on Pinterest. Be sure to follow us there for pins both sweet and savory, including recipes, dish ideas, cocktail inspiration and upcoming events we're pumped about. See you on Pinterest -- and bring your fork.

Hey Ladies, Lets Party at Fadó Like It’s the ‘80s

Big hair, check! Legwarmers, check! Headband, check! A Rubik’s cube and your man? Leave them at home. On Saturday, February 25, Fadó Irish Pub & Restaurant in Buckhead will be hosting their monthly Ladies ‘80s night. The party will get “totally rad” at 10 p.m. with a DJ pulling an all-nighter packed with ‘80s tunes. All of you Dancing Queens out there get ready to disco the night away during the Atlanta Dance Marathon from 7 - 10 p.m. The Shepherd Center Foundation benefits from your participation in this month's fun-raiser. Of course, every ’80s lady knows a party isn’t complete without an array of drinks. Tasty drink options include the Long Island Iced Tea, Mai Tai and Blue Hawaiian only $6 each for the kitsch and cocktail. Ladies looking for a more wintry mix can order off the winter drink menu that features whiskey favorites, winter warmers and seasonal ales at $5.50-$10.50 each. Ladies, it’s time to let loose and party like it’s the ‘80s. 

BYOB To "Open That Bottle Night" This Saturday At Double Zero Napoletana And Spice Market

No need to wait for a birthday or anniversary... There's no time like the present to savor that bottle of wine you've been saving for some special occasion! Carpe diem and bring your wine to Double Zero Napoletana and Spice Market for "Open That Bottle Night" on Saturday, February 25! 


On that night, there's no corkage fee to pop open your bottle. Who can operate those flimsy corkscrew bottle openers anyway?  Let the pros tackle it while you tackle the menu. Those leaning toward Italian small plates and Neapolitan pizza will find Double Zero Napoletana in Sandy Springs has plenty to love. Worldly spices and complex Southeastern Asian flavors tie in nicely with your wine at Spice Market located in the W Atlanta-Midtown. Cheers!

BYOB, Buckhead Restaurant Week and Blue Plate Menus... It's All In This Week's Dish

Get your Fat Tuesday rolling with this week's edition of The Dish!  Not letting the good times roll in your inbox every Tuesday morning? Don't fret - you can sign up either here on our blog or on our Facebook page!

More Blue for Your Buck in Roswell

Tonight marks the debut of a new blue plate special menu at Aqua blue in Roswell, and you can select an appetizer, entrée and dessert from the menu for only $25 (not including tax or gratuity). Begin with either AB calamari with sweet chili sauce, tempura green beans with sweet mustard dipping sauce, a hand-made sushi roll or a crisp Caesar salad. Hot and hearty entrée choices include cioppino with jumbo shrimp, sea scallops, clams and mussels in a rich tomato broth with crunchy risotto hoisin; glazed baby back ribs served with slaw and black bean cassoulet; or seafood en papillote with Alaskan cod, jumbo scallop and shrimp with julienne of vegetables and potatoes steamed in parchment with fresh herbs and white wine broth. Dessert options include house-made ciabatta bread pudding served with cinnamon ice cream, milk and dark chocolate molten cake with by vanilla ice cream or the daily sorbet, house-made from seasonal fruits. Be sure to get to the restaurant by March 12 to try this menu before another one rolls out!

Stand Up and Holler - Spice Market Has Sips for a Dollar!

Honestly, it's a challenge to even buy a twist-top water or soft drink from a vending machine for that price, let alone try wines from glass bottles. The popular Sip and Save series returns to Spice Market, located inside the W Atlanta-Midtown, for a second dollar-savvy evening from 6 - 7 p.m. on Wednesday, February 22. Head to the restaurant's lounge area for complimentary light appetizers and exclusive wine tastings (sample three to four wines for just $1) poured by Quality Wine Distributors. A representative can answer any questions about the different wines being sampled. Spend a little more, save a lot more -- attendees will receive 50 percent off the wines tasted that night when dining at Spice Market. Spice Market's globally inspired menu has lots of options to complement your favorite wine of the night. 

Rafer Guest Blogs

I'm a big fan of eating just like everyone else over here at MLA. And the snacks I get when I sit under the conference room table are amazing. Trust.

I just had to tell everyone about a cool event coming up this weekend - The Golden Gala on Saturday, Feb. 25. And Wednesday is the last day to buy tickets!! This party is important to me because it benefits Adopt a Golden Atlanta, the people who found me this great home (see note about amazing snacks above). It's gonna be from 7 - 10 p.m. at Mason Murer Fine Art Gallery. There is food (yes!), drinks, music and shopping. The attire is casual, as most people will be covered in dog hair anyway. Here's the link for tickets. And check out Facebook for more scoop.

I really hope you'll considering going and supporting other pups like me. Maybe you can help one get a cozy, delicious food-filled office like I did. Now, back to the conference room for a snack. Woof!

---

It's Follow Friday; Meet Our Tweep of the Week @Elle1955

Atlanta's own soap opera sultress, Evelyn Mims (@Elle1955), tweets about these melodramas and more as the "Ultimate Social Connector/Community Relations Specialist for 11-Alive and producer for Atlanta & Company." Tag along with Evelyn and stay in the know.

Atlanta's Krewes Bring a Flavor of N'awlins to You

Mardi Gras has no borders. Right here in the ATL, several fun-loving restaurants are throwing beads and bashes right along with the best of Bourbon Street. On Fat Tuesday, February 21, RA Sushi suggests you don your beads and favorite Mardi Gras apparel to whoop it up with DJ beats, $8 Southern juleps and HurRAcanes along with other lively libations. Asian-Cajun treats include the spicy chicken and shishito peppers ($7), chili shrimp roll ($8) and spicy kalbi beef ($9). Festivities run 7 p.m. to close.

In Smyrna, Atkins Park Tavern launches a five-day Mardi Gras Oysterfest starting today, February 17. New Orleans-style fare, live music and entertainment for children and adults lay on the lagniappe through Fat Tuesday, February 21. Oyster specials roll as oyster beignets, po'boys, Rockefeller style as well as grilled, raw and fried. The Patrick Scott Band plays on Friday night. On Saturday, there's brunch from 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. The musical lineup begins at 2 p.m. with Wesley Cook, Soul Hound with blues and soul outside at 6 p.m. and Todd Wells from 10:30 p.m. - 2:30 a.m. Saturday cover is $10 advance/$15 at the door and includes a ticket for Sunday's events. Sunday's "Cure-All" hangover brunch hours are 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. with more great live music in the afternoon. Monday focuses on a celebration of New Orleans faves and entertainment for all ages from 5 - 10 p.m. Tuesday parties on with beads, beer and The Andrew Black Band from 9:30 p.m. to close at 2:30 a.m. Free admission on Monday and Tuesday.

Fat Tuesday is king on February 21 at Atkins Park Tavern in Virginia Highland. Stop by for a full day of fun with beers such as Restoration Pale Ale, hurricanes, gumbo, po' boys, oysters and king cake. The band Homefront plays at 10 p.m.

Downtown, Ray's in the City pleases with New Orleans-inspired specials beginning at 11 a.m. on Fat Tuesday. It's a full-fledged party from 5 - 7:30 p.m. complete with live music, specialty cocktails, Ray's famous gumbo, peel-and-eat shrimp, oysters on the half shell and a Low Country boil-style buffet.

If you can't make it out on Fat Tuesday, then don't fret. This year's Bayou 'N Bourbon menu at Marlow's Tavern brings Mardi Gras flavors to your table. There's no cutesy masquerading here -- these dishes are Louisiana through and through for you and your "krewe" until March 26.

Get Your Atlanta Food & Wine Festival Tickets and Save

Last year this event was a blast so hurry and buy your tickets before the word gets out (and while you can save some dough). All our favorite chefs will be there! Check out Atlanta Food & Wine Festival for details on the May 10 - 13 event. If mom's a foodie, then this is the perfect way to spend Mother's Day weekend!

The South has never tasted so good, and the prices will not be lower this festival season. Several ticket options satisfy a variety of desires whether you're looking for a couple of learning experiences and tastings to total submersion in Southern culinary classes, foods, wines and dinners. Per person options with early bird (now) and full pricing after March 29 (later) include a tasting tent pass ($85 now/$100 later); day pass ($135 now/$185 later); three-day pass for Friday, Saturday and Sunday ($375 now/$500 later); and the connoisseur day pass, per day ($565 now/$700 later). The all-out lavish three-day connoisseur pass features three connoisseur breakfasts, private dinners Thursday and Friday, Blackberry Farm dinner on Saturday and Anne Quatrano's closing supper on Sunday, plus access to the connoisseur lounge on Friday, Saturday and Sunday ($1,500 now/$2,000 later). Ticket specifics and purchasing information are on the website.

Atlanta Food & Wine Festival donates a portion of its proceeds toAtlanta History Center, Les Dames d' Escoffier International,Oxford American, Wholesome Wave Foundation and James Beard Foundation. In 2011, the festival contributed more than $150,000 in tickets to nonprofit organizations. Follow along on Facebook andTwitter.

Uncle Julio's Reveals New Drink Menu The Night Before Fat Tuesday

No need to wait for Cinco de Mayo!  Uncle Julio’s is here to satisfy your taste for tequila just in time for Mardi Gras with a few new additions to their beverage lineup. On Monday, February 20, Uncle Julio's Fine Mexican Food will introduce new cocktails ($8.50-$9.95) like the Patron-Cosmo Rita, (Patron Silver, Julio’s fresh lemon/lime sour and splash of cranberry juice) and the oh so tropical, Mango Passion Rita (1800 Reposado, peach schnapps and a fresh mango-passion fruit blend).  Margaritas not your thing?  Uncle Julio’s has you covered with their take on the classic mojito.  Their Cuervo Gold-laced Mexican mojito will bring a fiesta to your mouth by using tequila instead of rum.  And for those out there watching their waistlines, the Patron Skinny Margarita (120 calories) and the Julio’s Skinny Guava-Rita (130 calories) allow you to sip guilt-free.  You can sample these drinks at either the Buckhead or Sandy Springs location.

Double Zero Invites Guests to Taste Some of Italy’s Top Wines

The holidays are far gone and spring is still out of reach. For those who are feeling like they are stuck in limbo and need to take a break, there is a glimpse of hope in the near future. How does tasting some of Italy’s top wines sound? 

Double Zero Napoletana is welcoming Lucio Mastroberadino, owner of Terredora di Paolo Winery, on Tuesday, February 21 for a first-class wine dinner at 7 p.m. Terredora di Paolo has the reputation of being one of the most elite wineries in world because of their superior wines and quality standards. Wine dinner guests will get to enjoy some of Terredora’s award-winning wines, including their Falanghina, Greco di Tufo, Aglianico d'Irpinia and Taurasi while enjoying veal hangar steak, braised lamb cheeks and much more. Guests will be able to get a break from their everyday routine and get a taste of Italy for only $59 per person excluding tax and tip.  To look at the full menu and learn more about Terredora di Paolo, please visit Facebook. Spots are highly coveted so be sure to get your reservation at 404-991-3666.

Our Appetizing Aperture of the Week: Valentine's Edition

It's no secret that we at MLA have a passionate love for uber-indulgent red velvet cake. So we're hoping our significant others see this Valentine's Day hint. We'd love for this slice of red velvet from Alpine Bakery & Trattoria to magically appear! Cupid, the ball's in your court...

Let The Good Times Roll with The Dish

Happy Valentine's Day to all of our Dish readers! Enjoy our latest edition, full of great ideas like last minute Valentine's Day dinners (we won't tell) and upcoming Mardi Gras celebrations you won't want to miss. If you're not feeling the Dish love every Tuesday morning in your inbox, you can sign up either here on our blog or on our Facebook page. 

Mardi Gras Season Means Bayou 'N Bourbon at Marlow's Tavern

Forget the masquerades and beads - for us, Mardi Gras means the annual Bayou 'N Bourbon menu at Marlow's Tavern. All eight locations of the neighborhood tavern are serving up dishes that are Louisiana through and through from tomorrow, February 15 through March 26. "Mo' Betta Specials" include chicken and shrimp gumbo; fiery crawfish fondue (pictured right); bayou flatbread; a N'awlins-style po' boy; the bayou burger jazzed with andouille sausage, craw daddies, cheddar cheese and Creole mustard; "deconstructed" jambalaya; and the sweet Bourbon St. ribeye ($7-$26). Save room for the honey bourbon bread pudding splashed with Jack Daniel's Honey ($7). You can also toast Bourbon Street with a Marlow's hurricane (borrowed from Pat O'Briens), a Ramos gin fizz, Bourbon St. lemonade, a Cajun cosmo and Abita Jockamo ($5-$9). Marlow's regular menu is also available for those who can't handle the celebratory kick.

Last Chance to Hop Aboard the Valentine's Day Train, Choo Choo!

Looking to fill up that love tank?  Atlanta restaurants are pouring on the love with special Valentine's menus for singles, couples and BFFs -- follow this heart-y link to our blog for more details and consider a couple more below.

Spin the bottle is too chancy. Smashburger shakes are a sure thing, especially with two straws. Chocolate, vanilla or strawberry Häagen-Dazs ice cream is handspun into a dreamy concoction...and the limited-time coffee flavor could pass for coffee and dessert in one tall cup.

Love Valentine's Day at Ormsby's where the holiday's three-course dinner menu is only $35 per person (not including tax or gratuity). Choose from four appetizers including a citrus spring mix salad, oysters Rockefeller, crab and avocado salad and fennel and leek soup. Heartwarming entrée choices are chicken Marsala with butternut squash polenta cakes and wilted mustard greens; filet mignon Oscar style with au gratin potatoes and asparagus; and lobster tail with garlic red bliss mashed potatoes and a veggie medley. Follow up with one of three desserts: red velvet cake lollipops, red wine-poached pear tartlet or chocolate covered strawberries. Ormsby's combines flowers and spirits in two sweet cocktails ($10 each) -- "The Only Bee in My Bonnet" with Jack Daniels Tennessee Honey and lavender undertones and "Blushing Cupid" marrying Adami Prosecco and hibiscus syrup plus a smatter of edible flower petals. Wine specials include sparkling Gruet Blanc de Noir ($40 bottle), The Crusher Chardonnay ($8 glass/$28 bottle) and Colio Chianti ($7 glass/$24 bottle). Remember, Ormsby's has games for good times after dinner...or go home and make up your own.

Market Street Makes Romance Easy

Who says you have to go out for a fancy Valentine’s dinner?  Plan the perfect night in with the help of Market Street Café’s Gourmet Dinner for two for only $49.99!  The meal includes a mixed field green salad, a choice between beef tenderloin or cedar roasted salmon for the main course, and roasted parmesan broccoli and tasty twice baked potatoes as your sides.  Since it wouldn’t be Valentine’s Day without something sweet, this box of goodies also comes with Ghirardelli chocolate tortes and fresh strawberries to round out the meal. Want a little ambiance?  The romantic dinner for two also includes a candle and matches to help you set the mood!  Now that dinner’s set, Market Street has gifts covered too!  Pick up a dozen roses for $59.00 and you’ve got all the ingredients for a fabulous evening at home.  Check out the full menu here, including meal add-ons and items for kids.  All dinners need to be ordered by Monday, February 13, so make sure you act fast!  Your no hassle dinner is waiting for you at Market Street Café! 

Fleming's Primes Fans With New Icon Wine

Maeve Pesquera, national wine director for Fleming's Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar, is perpetually on the prowl for what she deems her "Icon Wine 'Holy Grail.'" On a recent trip to Napa, she uncovered Fleming's newest Icon Wine, the Swanson Family Alexis Cabernet Sauvignon 2007, powerful and resplendent with tastes of cassis, dark cherries and tobacco leaf. Swanson Vineyards operates under the helm of elite winemaker Chris Phelps. Come savor his handiwork at Fleming's Perimeter location and enjoy a bottle of this complex Cabernet at a special price of $95 per bottle, excluding tax and gratuity. Offer extends through March 31 or until supplies run dry.

Fleming's Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar: 4501 Olde Perimeter Way; (770) 698-8112

MLA On The Town: RA Sushi's Sake & Sushi Social

Nibbling and noshing our way around the ATL is a family affair at MLA. In January, MLA'er McCall and hubbie Shawn did some field work at RA Sushi's Sake & Sushi Social. We're proud that they managed to snap a photo before diving in to eat. RA Sushi is hosting next month's social at 7 p.m. on Tuesday, March 6. Call and grab a place for yourself:  404-267-0114.

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

Real food, prepared simply, enjoyed daily. That's a prescription for the good life and tweets by blogger/writer/cook and eater Dana Nahai (@onehauteplate). She must burn some calories outside the kitchen, too, because she looks pretty fit. Cravings for more can be satiated on her One Haute Plate website.

Say Sláinte to Fadó's Great Guinness Toast

Fadó Irish Pub and Restaurant is giving Guinness fans a reason to order another round. The Irish pub is giving you two chances to win a VIP table and tab for you and your friends on St. Patrick's Day. Now through February 16, order a Guinness and you'll be automatically entered into a drawing for a chance to win the St. Patrick's Day package. If you'd rather not rely on the luck of the Irish to win your prize, go to Facebook and post your favorite toast in the comment section. Finalists will be chosen on February 15 and the contestant with the loudest audience approval at the Great Guinness Toast will be hailed the official toastmaster and will also win a VIP package. The Great Guinness Toast starts at 9 p.m. on February 17,  and you must be present to claim your winnings. You and your friends can enjoy $3 Guinness Black Lagers and Picklebacks while you practice that acceptance toast. Sláinte!

What The Cluck? Will Harris Gets Together With Georgians For Pastured Poultry To Explore Bird's Big Impact On Georgia

Forget the dirty bird, Falcons Fans, apparently in Georgia it’s all about the chickens. We produce more chicken meat than any other state, and if Georgia was a country, it would be the sixth-largest poultry producer in the world. With such large numbers, it’s nice to know that there are businesses like White Oak Pastures that believe in following the sustainable practice of pastured poultry. Owner Will Harris is a founding member of Georgians for Pastured Poultry (GPP), a group that promotes pasture-raised chicken as a fair, humane and sustainable alternative to poultry factory farming. On February 9, Harris and GPP are releasing a white paper on this matter to a food industry group that includes retailers, writers, chefs, legislators and media. GPP is currently made up of Compassion in World Farming, Darby Farms, Fellowship of Southern Farmers, Artisans & Chefs, Georgia Organics, GreenLaw, Sierra Club and White Oak Pastures.

But chicken isn’t the only meat that’s dished up by White Oak Pastures, and this Valentine’s Day White Oak Pastures is featuring a special online sale on their delicious tenderloin filet for $9 per 8 ounce steak, regularly $11.52. The sale lasts until tomorrow, so hurry and snag this deal before it’s all gone!

Beer + Brats? I'll Take One, Two or Ten

Guinness-braised brats, natural Angus beef hot dogs and hot boiled Georgia peanuts are some of the items Ormsby's will sell to complement brew sampling at the 3rd annual Winter Beer Carnival coming up Saturday, February 11, starting at 3 p.m. at Atlantic Station. This year's carnival has expanded into its new digs with more midway games and more than 100 beers to sample, including traditional favorites, premium craft beers and a wonderland of winter brews. Carnival ticket includes beer samples and most games. Buy tickets online: General admission tickets are $40 advance/$50 carnival day, and Designated Driver VIP tickets are $20 advance/$30 carnival day. "HOPtimize" to a VIP ticket ($60 advance purchase) for 2 p.m. entry and sample a premium selection of top-rated and hard-to-find beers. Sampling limited to those ages 21 and over.

Heartthrob Chef Shows How to Prepare Food That Will Get You in the Mood - Tune in Thursday!

If you're hoping to avoid the restaurant crowds on Valentine's Day and plan on preparing dinner for your loved one at home instead, you won't want to miss CBS "Better Mornings Atlanta" this Thursday at 9:45 a.m. Chef Justin Balmes, who happens to be quite the hunk in our opinion (And Eater agrees! See the steamy pic to the right if you don't believe us), will make an appearance on the WGCL-TV morning show in order to demonstrate how to prepare some mouthwatering aphrodisiac dishes. You probably remember Justin from Season 7 of "Food Network Star," but he is also currently a chef instructor at the Art Institute of Atlanta and has plenty of tips to teach us how to get hearts beating with every bite!

While you're at it, check out Justin's new website to see what else he's got cooking.

Love These Heart-y Reasons To Dine Out With Or Without A Valentine

Forgot the red roses this Valentine’s Day?  Don’t even bother!  Instead, show your sweetheart how much you care by taking them out for a romantic dinner at any of these Atlanta restaurants offering Valentine week specials!
    

Single? No worries. Go out with friends to wine, dine, and help out a charitable cause with Love thy neighbor at Fifth Group Restaurants' Alma Cocina. On Valentine's Day, the contemporary Mexican restaurant in downtown Atlanta is partnering with the Atlanta Community Food Bank's Supper Club. During lunch and dinner, 20 percent of your tab will be donated to Atlanta's Table, a project of the Atlanta Community Food Bank. Reservations: 404-968-9662.

It’s the last minute and you forgot to make reservations. But don’t panic! You won’t need one to stop by Alpine Bakery & Trattoria in the Crabapple area of Alpharetta on February 14 for either their special Valentine's Day menu or the regular menu. Italian food, New York-style pizza, wines from around the world and award-winning baked goods are all possibilities. A dessert alone could lead to a loving relationship - chocolate mousse served with champagne. Or try their devilish Seven Sins Cake, pictured left. 

Have luxury and keep your wallet happy at Aqua blue in Roswell. A $50 four-course prix fixe menu co-stars with the à la carte menu from Friday, February 10 to Tuesday, February 14 and features Maine lobster chowder or a butter lettuce wedge, jumbo lump crab sushi roll, Aqua blue surf and turf and warm chocolate cake for dessert. Throw in a long-stem rose package and champagne toasts for an additional cost. Enjoy some live music on Friday, February 10 starting at 8 p.m. Reservations: 770-643-8886.

Ever the epitome of elegance and romance, Buckhead's Aria is offering a four-course menu for $90 per person on Valentine's Day night (beverage, tax and gratuity not included). Reservations: 404-233-7673.

Celebrate Singles Awareness Day at the anti-Valentine's Day bash filling Atkins Park Tavern in Smyrna on Saturday, February 11 at 10 p.m. Groove to live music from the band Homefront. Couples, you're not left out. There's a three-course prix fixe dinner with wine pairings for $45 per person on Valentine's Day. Reservations:  770-435-1887. Atkins Park Tavern in Virginia Highland is featuring a special à la carte menu ($8-$26) on Tuesday, February 14. The restaurant will offer tuna tartare and potato gnocchi with lamb Bolognese for starters, pan-roasted black grouper and smoke-roasted prime rib for entrées and chocolaty dessert choices of house-made Oreos, caramel and chocolate meringues or bittersweet chocolate ice cream. Reservations: 404-876-7249.

Pop the cork and maybe the question at Double Zero Napoletana. On Valentine's Day, couples choosing the $59-per-person prix fixe menu also get a champagne split, champagne glasses and a Castellucci Hospitality Group (CHG) gift card for use at any CHG restaurant. Find your favorites on the regular menu, if you prefer. Reservations: 404-991-3666.

Love me tender, like the melt-in-your-mouth corned beef on the hearty Valentine's Day prix fixe menu for $44.95 per couple at Fadó Irish Pub & Restaurant. On Tuesday, February 14, couples can share an appetizer of corned beef rolls or smoked salmon bites. Each person picks an entrée of corned beef and cabbage, fish and chips or trinity steak boxty. Then it's back to sharing a dessert of either black and tan brownie with Guinness ice cream, bread pudding with brown bread ice cream or crème brûlée cheesecake. Reservations: 404-841-0066.

Can’t go out the night of Valentine’s? Don’t stress it! There are three romantic nights -- February 12, 13 and 14 -- to take in three romantic Valentine's entrées and take home a $25 gift card at Fleming's Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar. Filet mignon and prawns, prime New York strip and king crab, and colossal North Atlantic lobster tail with lobster mac and cheese will be offered, each at $69.95. Add on a Valentine's Day "Bella-tini" cocktail ($9.95) and a sinfully rich red velvet cake with espresso truffles ($9.50). The regular à la carte menu also is available. Each couple celebrating Valentine's Day at Fleming's from Sunday, February 12 through Tuesday, February 14 will take home one $25 gift card valid from Wednesday, February 15 through Saturday, March 31. Reservations:  770-698-8112.

Lovin' the South, Executive Chef Ford Fry is offering a $55 four-course menu (a "taste"+ three courses) at JCT. Kitchen & Bar on Tuesday, February 14. Reservations: 404-355-2252.

Your heart may still belong to Krispy Kreme's Original Glazed, but it's okay to spread the love with one or a dozen Valentine's treats at the Krispy Kreme store in Columbus, Ga. Why play favorites?  Mix up a dozen of the three Valentine's-inspired doughnuts:  Decadent chocolate Drizzled Hearts are drizzled with red icing; the Heart with Sprinkles sports white icing and red and white sprinkles; and the Chocolate Iced Glazed with Sprinkles showers classic iced doughnuts with red and white sprinkles. And there's more to love through February 14, as you'll receive 12 FREE Valentine cards when you purchase a dozen doughnuts - each is good for a free doughnut. (One set of 12 cards per dozen doughnuts purchased, while supplies last).

There's amore galore at La Tavola Trattoria in Virginia Highland where a $49 three-course prix fixe menu will win hearts on Valentine's Day. Reservations: 404-873-5430.

Wherever your heart lies in metro Atlanta, there's a Marlow's Tavern nearby featuring a $35 prix fixe menu as well as their entire à la carte menu on Tuesday, February 14. Locations and info are on the website.

Devoted in Decatur, No. 246 is offering a four-course prix fixe menu for Valentine's Day. Choice of entrée options includes wild mushroom tagliatelle and pan-roasted North Carolina flounder. $55 per person, not including tax or gratuity. Reservations:  678-399-8246.

All three Ray's Restaurants locations are ready for spontaneity with Valentine's specials and their regular menus over a long Valentine's weekend - Friday, February 10 through Tuesday, February 14. A special prix fixe menu at Ray's at Killer Creek in Alpharetta lets couples choose a starter, salad and soup and share the entrée course of red wine-braised Wagyu short rib with porcini sauce, jumbo shrimp and scallops, lobster mashed potatoes and grilled asparagus. There are chocolate truffles for dessert.  Better than the real thing? The "Your Kiss on My List" cocktail shakes Finlandia Wild Fruit Vodka and cranberry juice and serves the mix over ice in a martini glass with a dollop of raspberry sorbet. $120 per couple, tax and gratuity not included. Reservations: 770-649-0064. For riverside romance, Ray's on the River on the Chattahoochee is featuring dishes such as lobster fondue, baby spinach and raspberry salad with candied walnuts and goat cheese vinaigrette, two-pound stuffed lobster, surf and turf with filet mignon and lobster tail and molten chocolate cake with white chocolate-raspberry ice cream for dessert. Reservations: 770-955-1187. Ray's in the City is offering an all-inclusive, four-course prix fixe menu for $75 per person that includes tagliatelle pasta tossed with butter and poached lobster, butter lettuce salad topped with house-made ricotta, slow-roasted certified Angus tenderloin and house-made chocolate cake with hazelnut ice cream. For an additional charge, wine pairings are available. Reservations: 404-524-9224.

Everything delish that we love about the South is on the Valentine's Day dinner menus at South City Kitchen Midtown and South City Kitchen Vinings. Both restaurants are featuring similar three-course prix fixe menus (Midtown menu and Vinings menu) for $39.95 per person, not including tax or gratuity. Guests can choose from a list of appetizers; nine please-all entrées including buttermilk fried chicken, smoke-roasted filet of beef, Low Country shrimp and grits and a vegetable plate with celery root and fennel hash; and a choice of three decadent desserts (plus ice cream/sorbet in Midtown). Midtown reservations: 404-873-7358 or online. Vinings reservations: 770-435-0700 or online.

Spice up your relationship with the four-course prix fixe Valentine's Day menu at Spice Market. The Tuesday, February 14 Valentine's dinner for two is $75, tax and gratuity not included. Toast your twosome with the prix fixe dinner plus a half bottle of Veuve Clicquot for $99, plus tax and gratuity. The regular à la carte menu also will be available. Each guest receives a special red fortune cookie that could reveal complimentary items or discounts to be used on future Spice Market visits. Among these are complimentary appetizers or desserts, 25 percent off an entire check, 50 percent off wine, a buy-one-get-one-free entrée, a complimentary five-course chef's tasting menu or a complimentary one-night stay at the W Atlanta-Midtown. Reservations: 404-724-2550.

Uncle Julio's Fine Mexican Food invites you to share the love with their Plato de Amor from February 9 - 19. For $49.95, the platter includes cold water lobster tail, shrimp brochette and mesquite-grilled combination fajitas served with guacamole, pico de gallo, rice and frijoles a la charra.  

For those who prefer to show their love on the grill at home, White Oak Pastures is featuring a special online sale on their delicious tenderloin filet for $9 per 8 ounce steak, regularly $11.52. The sale lasts until this Friday, but be sure to order by 10 a.m. Wednesday if you'd like to receive in time for a Valentine's Day feast.

Make much ado about the occasion at the 4th annual Fools For Love wine dinner and cabaret hosted by Woodfire Grill in support of Georgia Shakespeare on Monday, February 13 at 7 p.m. Executive Chef Kevin Gillespie pairs premium wines with four courses, and Georgia Shakespeare's Associate Artists will serenade with jazz standards and love songs. $150 per person ($90 tax deductible). To purchase tickets, call Georgia Shakespeare at 404-504-3404. On February 14, value your vegetarian friend or pescatarian pal with special five-course Valentine's Day menus along with the regular five-course dinner menu at Woodfire Grill. Regular and pescatarian menus are priced at $115 per person, and the special vegetarian menu is priced at $105. Pair with wine for $6 per course for a half glass or $12 for a full glass. Reservations are required: 404-347-9055. 

Get the Dish on Valentine's Day Ideas And More

We're here to steer you towards a perfect Valentine's Day in this week's Dish. Get some great ideas on where to wine and dine your sweetie next week!


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“My Best Enemy,” Gerry Klaskala And A Fine Food And Wine Cruise Up For Bid; Three Reasons to Attend the Atlanta Jewish Film Festival

On Wednesday, February 8, the Atlanta Jewish Film Festival will have its opening night gala at the Fabulous Fox Theater. A VIP reception showcasing celebrity chefs will serve as a preshow to the night’s feature “My Best Enemy,” a WWII thriller which will kick off the 22-days festival. Aria Owner/Executive Chef Gerry Klaskala is one of the celebrity chefs manning tasting tables at the reception. His dish, veal schnitzel with red wine apple sauce, ties in with the German flavor of the night’s feature film. As if the film and food weren't already enough reasons to attend, guests will also be able to place live-auction bids on a cruise cabin aboard a Fine Food and Wine Cruise.

Reception starts at 5 p.m. followed by film showing at 7:30 p.m. Purchase Young Professionals ($150) and Red Carpet VIP ($300) Reception/Film packages and film showing general admission tickets ($10) online.