Taco Mac Big Game Rush Week Begins Jan. 29 with Brewniversity Incentives and Saturday Wings-to-Go Pick Up

Taco Mac calls in special teams of Brewniversity double credits and Saturday wing order pick-ups for its Big Game Rush Week leading up to Super Bowl Sunday. Beginning Sunday, Jan. 29 and running through Feb. 5, all Brewniversity credits are worth double points. Full-size beers and pitchers are worth two credits and nooners are worth one credit. Daily credits max out at 12 (instead of the usual six credit daily max). Credits are still only worth double on Double Credit Monday.

And then there’s the home party stress-relieving team, having those take-away wing orders ready for Saturday pick up to minimize the stress of picking up food and preparing to host a party on game day. Guests who order for Saturday pick up will receive their to-go order in a foil pan with instructions on reheating. Toss in the sauce after reheating to prevent soggy wings. Roasted wings are ideal for Saturday pick up. Place online orders until noon on Super Bowl Sunday. Call your closest Taco Mac location to place orders after 12 p.m. on Feb. 5.

One more wing thing – “Wings are for Winners” is still in play at Taco Mac. When the Falcons play, Taco Mac game watchers present when the game ends will receive a card for a free six-pack of wings, valid on dine-in orders the following Monday-Friday. May not be combined with other offers, coupons or discounts.

Put Us In, Coach! Atlanta Restaurants Tackle Suppers and Sippers for Super Bowl LI Feb. 5

Put Us In, Coach! Atlanta Restaurants Tackle Suppers and Sippers for Super Bowl LI Feb. 5

The Atlanta Falcons are Super Bowl bound! (Falcons) Super Bowl fans are so excited they can hardly stay seated, let alone focus on what could be one of the most important plays of the season -- what to serve to those couch coaches, quarterbacks and cheerleaders screaming for their team at home viewing parties. Huddle up now. Atlanta restaurants have playbooks full of carry-out packages and dine-in specials destined for your end zone.

Take-Away Specials

An advantage to not being in the stadium is scoring tremendously tasty takeout courtesy of the slightly football-shaped Big Green Egg at Atkins Park Restaurant & Bar in Virginia-Highland. Intercept two full slabs of BGE pork spare ribs with tomato barbecue sauce for $35. Call a coin toss on whether to get two dozen BGE smoked or confit wings with your choice of sweet chili, spicy BBQ or Atkins Park classic wing sauce, including veggies and ranch and blue cheese dressings for $30. Pick up 12 bacon cheeseburger sliders for $30 and an order of house-made guac, salsa and tortilla chips for $25. Place orders by Friday, Feb. 3 for pickup Sunday, Feb. 5.

Milton’s Cuisine & Cocktails packs a walloping count of 50 smoked wings plus 15 s’mores Moon Pies into each “Super Bowl To-Go” package for $50 plus tax. Choose traditional medium, sweet garlic-honey chili or lemonyaki wings; carrot or celery sticks; and blue cheese or buttermilk ranch dressing. Place orders online by 5 p.m. Friday, Feb. 3 and pick up Sunday, Feb. 5 between 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Questions? Call 770-817-0161.

Smokebelly BBQ predicts epic Super Bowl LI parties for barbecue fanatics ordering the Buckhead eatery’s carry-out bowl game specials. Smoked wings, priced at $50 for 50 or $100 for 100, come packed in re-heatable aluminum half pans accompanied by your choice of sauces, fresh-cut celery, carrots and blue cheese and ranch dressings. Want it all, ‘cue or wings to tableware? Party pack options serve 8-10 people and include disposable party platters and serving utensils, plastic plates, utensils and napkins. Porky Pig ‘Pigskin’ Pack ($99) brings smoked pulled pork, three signature sauces, fresh baked brioche buns and two sides. “Proper Southern Guest” package ($59) touches down on a chipotle-spiced pimento cheese platter with house-made pita crackers, pork rinds and a vegetable crudité platter of fresh-cut carrots, celery, blue cheese and ranch dressings and Peppadew sweet peppers. The Tailgate Party Platter ($125) backs the “Proper Southern Guest” with a smoked wings platter, three sauces and a choice of two sides. Nashville Hot Chicken package ($89) offers a 10-piece sliced Nashville hot chicken breast platter with Texas toast, pork rinds and BBQ ranch dipping sauce plus a choice of two sides. What about those sides? Choose from mac and cheese, coleslaw, baked beans, potato salad, “kale’rd” greens, baby kale salad and succotash. Additional sides, including Brunswick stew and bourbon baked sweet potato soufflé, sauces, buns and Hawaiian rolls may be purchased à la carte. Order online by 3 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 2; pick up Saturday, Feb. 4 from 11 a.m.-9 p.m. or Sunday, Feb. 5 from 11 a.m.-5 p.m.

Who says game-day grub is only for wings and ‘cue? Cheer on your team the FlexMex-style and order tacos and quesadillas to-go from Tin Lizzy’s Cantina. Score 20% off your catering order of $100 or more by Wednesday. Feb. 1.

Restaurant In-House Viewing Specials
American Cut in The Shops Buckhead Atlanta calls guests to #RISEUP at the ultimate Super Bowl big-screen viewing party on Sunday, Feb. 5. Cheer the Falcons on to victory while tailgating on American Cut’s game-day bar snacks like “chili lobster” chicken wings and wagyu sliders in the first floor bar and lounge, and feast on a prime rib buffet in the main dining room. Buffet remains in play through the end of the third quarter. An open bar on the first two floors pours from kickoff until final buzzer. Buffet and bar are included in the $85 ticket price; buy tickets online. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. #RISEUP to the Regent Cocktail Club for celebratory craft cocktails and Champagne after the game. American Cut has served numerous NFL athletes, including Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan, making it the place to be on Super Bowl Sunday.

Halftime shows off a “limited open bar” in support of home team Atlanta Falcons at Atkins Park Restaurant & Bar in Virginia-Highland. Going for the extra points, the spirited viewing spot is raffling off a Yeti cooler during halftime. Customers receive a Yeti raffle ticket with each Bud Light pitcher purchase.

Super Bowlers preferring to hunker down and watch the game at Smokebelly BBQ will be able to purchase $3 Bud Light drafts and $10 pitchers, $15 buckets of Bud/Bud Light and $5 Tito’s cocktails. As predicted, packages and drink specials mean win-win, at Smokebelly’s house or yours.

We can already hear fans cheering for HOBNOB Neighborhood Tavern Super Bowl Sunday specials. During the game, this Midtown viewing spot will pull SweetWater 420 pints for $2.50 each and pour free shots for every fumble. Kinda takes the hurt out if your team drops the ball. Wings, priced at 50 cents each, are sure to fly off the grid.

Dollar beer (si, $1 a draft) for those sporting Atlanta Falcons gear, team-themed food specials and mucho TVs with sound turn Jefe’s Tacos & Tequila into Brookhaven’s fiesta end zone for watching Super Bowl LI.

Boogie your way into the end zone at Johnny's Hideaway. Catch the big game where Atlanta Falcons footballers Matt Ryan, DJ Tialavea and Levine Toilolo once partied in Buckhead. 

Falcons fans, Rise (Up) and shine on Wednesday, Feb. 1 doting your beloved game-day attire. If you’re one of the first 200 fans dressed in Falcons gear, Sublime Doughnuts has your breakfast covered with a free doughnut. Promo only offered at the North Druid Hills location.

ATL Falcons doughnuts from Sublime Doughnuts will fly off your game day table. And, when the Atlanta Falcons and New England Patriots go toe to toe on Super Bowl Sunday, Sublime Doughnuts and Boston doughnut shop Kane’s Donuts will go dough to dough, wagering a dozen of their home team-themed doughnuts to the outcome of the NFL Championship game. During the post-game week, the losing team must snap a photo of their staff wearing the opposing team’s jerseys while making doughnuts. Sublime Doughnuts is also giving away a dozen doughnuts to the Facebook and Instagram follower who most closely guess the game’s final score.

Taco Mac Super Bowl Week Playbook Tags Wings To Go, Brewniversity Specials, Big Game Philips Arena Event and 680 The Fan Live Broadcasts

Saturday wing pick up to ease Super Bowl Sunday party planning and Wings are for Winners are just two of the ways Taco Mac locations are helping couch wingbacks, quarterbacks and fans prep for Super Bowl LI. Receive a Wings are for Winners special-edition certificate with all to-go orders. Calling up wings couldn’t be easier, just use the online ordering link.

Taco Mac calls in special teams of Brewniversity double credits and Saturday wing order pick-ups for its Big Game Rush Week leading up to Super Bowl Sunday. Beginning Sunday, Jan. 29 and running through Feb. 5, all Brewniversity credits are worth double points. Full-size beers and pitchers are worth two credits and nooners are worth one credit. Daily credits max out at 12 (instead of the usual six credit daily max). Credits are still only worth double on Double Credit Monday. During the game, Taco Mac locations will offer even more Brewniversity credits tied to game action.

Taco Mac is throwing a Big Game Event at their Philips Arena location that’s sure to score touchdowns from fans wanting a bigger, say arena-sized setting, to root for and watch the hometown team. $35 per-person Big Game Package includes any two drinks from the Big Game day beverage menu, a 10-pack of wings and a side, unlimited chips and salsa and a guaranteed seat (closest seats to the home Dome). Buy tickets via Xorbia.

680 The Fan and Anheuser-Busch are teaming up with Taco Mac for a week of Super Bowl live broadcasts and promos. At each live appearance, 680 The Fan will register guests to win a pair of tickets to the Super Bowl plus a $1,000 check to aid travel, hotel, meals, etc. Chuck & Chernoff will broadcast from the Lindbergh Taco Mac on Tuesday, Jan. 31 from 3-7 p.m.; Chris Dimino will be at the Perimeter location on Wednesday, Feb. 1 from 6-8 p.m.; and The Buck & Kincade Show and Chuck & Chernoff will be at Taco Mac The Prado on Thursday, Feb. 2 for a special Bud Light Falcons Super Bowl Pep Rally from noon-7 p.m. On Super Bowl Sunday, enjoy live broadcasts of Atlanta’s Official NFL Pregame Show and 680 NFL GameDay from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. at Taco Mac’s Philips Arena location.

Taco Mac’s lineup of game-day drink specials returns for the biggest game of them all. With $11.95 pitchers, $4.75 20-oz. drafts and $13.95 mix-and-match beer buckets, there’s a special for the entire squad. Taco Mac is also teaming up with Lyft to make responsible drinking even easier with a 25% discount on rides to and from all Atlanta Taco Mac locations on Feb. 5.

Make a Play for “Rise Up ‘Ritas” and “Julio Jones Badass Butterscotch Brownies” from Mary Kay Andrews’ Cookbook

Guests will plow through beer-fortified margaritas and irresistibly sweet-salty brownies from “The Beach House Cookbook” by New York Times Bestselling author Mary Kay Andrews. To fuel home team fans for all that rising up, Andrews is Falcon-izing recipes including “Rise Up ‘Ritas” and “Julio Jones Badass Butterscotch Brownies” from her newest cookbook, which releases May 2. Bleachers or beach-ers, we’re game!

Rise Up ‘Ritas

• 2 (12-oz.) cans frozen limeade concentrate
• 2 (12-oz.) bottles light Mexican beer
• 2 (8-oz.) cans lemon-lime soda
• 1 ½ cups tequila
• Margarita salt
• Lime wedges for serving

Stir the limeade concentrate, beer, soda and tequila together in a pitcher. Pour into ice-filled glasses rimmed with margarita salt and serve with the lime wedges.

“Julio Jones Badass Butterscotch Brownies”

• 1 cup firmly packed light brown sugar
• ½ cup salted butter, melted
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 1 ½ tsp. bourbon or vanilla extract
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp. kosher salt
• ¾ tsp. baking powder
• 1 cup chopped pecans, toasted
• 1 cup butterscotch baking chips

      Preheat the oven to 350˚ F. Line an eight-inch square baking pan with aluminum foil, allowing two to three inches to extend over the sides of the pan.

Combine the brown sugar, melted butter, egg and bourbon in a large bowl. Stir in flour, salt and baking powder. Stir in the pecans and butterscotch chips.

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 25 minutes or until the center is set. Using the foil sides as handles, remove from the pan, and let cool completely on a wire rack. Cut into squares and serve.

Tin Lizzy’s Tempers Winter with Fire in the Hole Tacos Cooled by SweetWater Second Helping

There’s never a dull mouth moment at Tin Lizzy’s Cantina locations. “Taco of the Month” specials woo with interesting combos like January’s Fire in the Hole folded around fried chicken, queso blanco, Tin Lizzy’s signature hot sauce, spicy salsa and fresh jalapeños. We feel those flames of desire for a basket of these, and we’ll balance the heat with January’s featured beverage -- SweetWater Second Helping IPA. During January, proceeds from the sale of this limited-time brew benefit The Giving Kitchen. Next month, hearts will cry out for February’s featured banh mi taco -- the ying to go with the tangy yang of drink special Milagro margaritas. Come March, we’ll boot scoot toward Nashville chicken tacos. Did you know Tin Lizzy’s also features a seasonal salsa? Hot news flash, salsa verde’s the star until March.

All Drafts – Including Crafts – are $2 on Mondays at Smokebelly BBQ

Mondays don’t have to be a drag. Smokebelly BBQ is pulling $2 draft beers all day, every Monday -- and every tap is fair game. Imbibe in craft drafts like Lagunitas IPA, Blue Moon Belgian White and Founders Porter; seasonal brews; local SweetWater 420; and big names including Bud Light, Miller Lite, Coors Light, Stella Artois Pilsner, Newcastle Brown Ale, Yuengling Lager and Guinness Stout (Nitro).
 Come for the brews, but stick around for the grub! Dig into shareable plates like smoked wings and pulled pork sliders or fill up on the Smokebelly Stack sandwich or new Nashville hot chicken. You’ll be fueled up for the week ahead in no time.

What’s New on Pinterest: Southern Eats

Glory be, y’all! We’re dishing out Southern Eats in honor of National Southern Food Day, Jan. 22. Yep. Even Yankees will be able to prepare delicacies like homemade pimento cheese spread, classic deviled eggs and fried catfish with comeback sauce; Southern comforts of chicken and dumplings – Cracker Barrel and crockpot versions, slow cooker beef tips and rice and chicken and waffles; and sides of Southern-style green beans (with bacon), spicy collard greens and Trisha Yearwood’s macaroni and cheese. And, every Southern spread has its share of carbs such as tender angel flake biscuits, Southern cornbread and luscious lemon cream pie. Ah, yes. It’s great to be a mouth in the South.

#Foodgram Nick’s Dad Beets

Nick’s Dad Beets claims the 2016 Saveur Readers’ Choice Blog Award for “Best Food Instagram.” Why? Because he masters the rhythm of gotta-try-this recipes, jaw-dropping restaurant eats and really cute family photos.

Appetizing Aperture at The Southern Gentleman

Move over romaine, there’s a new Caesar in town. Shaved Brussels sprout Caesar salad at The Southern Gentleman tosses a powerhouse of shaved Brussels sprouts with crushed hazelnuts, shaved Grana Padano, charred green onions and dressed in an on-the-lighter-side house-made yogurt Caesar dressing. Make it the main thing at lunch or supper by adding grilled shrimp, Carolina mountain trout or fried chicken for $5-$11 more.

Rise Up! Catch the NFC Championship at These Atlanta Restaurants

The early bird may get the worm but our Dirty Birds have a thing for cheese. The Atlanta Falcons take on the Green Bay Packers in this Sunday’s NFC Champion Game and these Atlanta restaurants are the perfect place for gameday watching. Even better perk? No dish washing after. Rise up!

• Atkins Park Virginia-Highland

• Hand in Hand

• HOBNOB Neighborhood Tavern

• Marlow’s Tavern

• Ormsby’s

• Smokebelly BBQ

• Taco Mac

• Tin Lizzy’s Cantina

5Church Offers Rush Hour Remedy through High Top Happy Hours Monday-Thursday

Wishing you could lace on those comfy Chuck Taylors but facing a commute laced with traffic knots? Slip into 5Church Atlanta and sidle up to communal high tops (the table kind) or the bar to kick back for two hours of Rush Hour Remedy food and drink specials each Monday-Thursday from 4:30-6:30 p.m. “Bites” ($6-$8) might include ahi tuna poke or herb and cheese flatbread, PEI mussels, charcuterie and cheese board or a duo of Prime Certified Angus Beef (C.A.B.) sliders. Liquid refreshment taps beer and wine: Three Taverns Brewery Prince of Pilsen ($5) or wines by the glass such as Storypoint chardonnay 2014 or Chateau d’Eau viognier 2014 priced at $5, Les Trois Couronnes Cotes-du-Rhone 2014 at $7 and Square Plumb & Level cabernet sauvignon-cabernet Franc 2013 at $8. 

Burgers, Pizza, Salad, Soup – Fill ‘er Up with HOBNOB $11.95 Weekday Lunch Combos

Weekdays, a menu of $11.95 specials stretches the lunch “hour” from 11:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. at HOBNOB Neighborhood Tavern in Midtown. Whaddaya get? Choose ANY burger with topping, any seven-inch pita pizza or entrée salad; add a small BLT salad or cup of soup; and slake thirst with a soda. Those resolving to supersize greens intake this year can opt for all-you-can-eat BLT salad and soup for $11.95. And when the day gets away from you, it’s great to remember this filling and delicious deal is available well into the afternoon. Tax and gratuity not included.

Tip Your Sombrero to Taco Deals and Dollar Beers at Jefe’s Tacos & Tequila in Brookhaven

Those who think weekdays are sleepers need to nix siestas and save on tacos, beer and wine at Jefe’s Tacos & Tequila, Brookhaven’s full-service taqueria. Monday nights are “Noche” Nights folding up $2 tacos from the daily special list (here’s an example) and pouring $1 draft. On “Taco Tuesday,” $10 buys any four tacos – such as al pastor, “Bravocado,” Baja fish or “Trailer on Fire.” Wine down for $20 bottles of wines on Wednesday and say “olé” to bottomless mimosas until 3 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. Liven up any day with lunch, dinner or late night drinks and chow at Jefe’s, which opens at 11:30 a.m. weekdays and noon on weekends. Night owls will hoot upon finding Jefe’s open until 1 a.m. Monday-Thursday, 2 a.m. Friday and Saturday, and until midnight on Sunday. No, siesta. Si, Jefe’s fiesta!

"Keep the Balance" Limited Time Special Menu Nourishes Body, Comforts Soul at The Big Ketch Saltwater Grill

Life’s a balancing game. Cold weather and early sunsets tip dinner time craving scales toward hot, soul-soothing foods with crispy crusts, melt-in-your-mouth morsels and creamy sauces. Comfort foods call you to the dinner table. Busy days, however, demand high energy, lower calorie power lunches of grilled seafood, plentiful veggies and cool salads to avoid embarrassing post-lunch dozing. 

The Big Ketch Saltwater Grill “Keep the Balance” menu, available for a limited time, graciously satisfies both needs. Each “Keep the Balance” low-cal lunch item surfaces at under 500 calories. Choose a grilled shrimp wrap with lettuce, cucumber, tomato, feta and tzatziki sauce served with a side house salad or side Caesar ($11.95); basil-Blue Moon mussels and clams with a side house salad or side Caesar ($10.95); or salmon, tuna, grouper or grilled chicken ($10.95-$17.95) and a choice of two sides -- grilled broccoli, green beans, side house salad or Caesar salad. A shrimp and crab salad plate boasts a healthy base of mixed greens along with yogurt aioli, tomatoes, eggs, cucumbers and white balsamic dressing ($11.95).

Luscious dinner dishes “Comfort Your Soul” with flavorful riches like cornmeal-crusted flounder, gnocchi, creamy clam sauce, wilted spinach and toasted almonds ($22.95); seafood pot pie well-schooled in lobster, shrimp, scallops and creamy seafood béchamel, topped with a garlic-Parmesan crumble ($23.95); and Maine lobster-stuffed ravioli with lobster-brandy cream sauce, diced tomatoes and scallions ($22.95).

This menu moves out to sea soon so hurry in to either the Buckhead or Canton Street location of The Big Ketch stay balanced with low-cal lunches and comfortingly decadent dinners. 

Plant Yourself at Farm Star Living Product Harvest 2017, a Farm-to-Everything Showcase on Jan. 26

Farm Star Living digs up the hottest new healthy food products hitting the market, eco-friendly companies and farm-fresh produce, gathering everything in one big sold-out Product Harvest 2017 on Thursday, Jan. 26 from 6-8 p.m. at the W Hotel Midtown. Get to know who’s behind your food as well as do some sipping, sampling and collecting some swell swag. Mix and mingle with farm-fresh food experts and folks behind the brand labels while enjoying cocktails and light bites. Participants include: White Oak Pastures, Wonderful Pistachios, Taylor Farms, Mission Produce (Hass avocados), Bland Farms, Del Monte Fresh Produce, WP Rawl, Truly Good Foods, NatureSweet, Southern Specialties, Melon 1, Earth Fresh Organics, Hampton Farms and more. Farm Star Living is a consumer premium website showcasing farmers, fresh food and healthy living through editorial content, recipes and videos to help shoppers have a greater connection to their food sources. 

Roman Roads Lead to Peachtree Road’s Storico Fresco for “Tasting Rome” Dinner with Cookbook Author Katie Parla on Jan. 24

Oh, to be Katie Parla, reviewing restaurants and culinary trends as a Rome-based food and beverage educator and journalist. While we can’t BE her, we can enjoy a special dinner with her at Storico Fresco Alimentari e Ristorante on Tuesday, Jan. 24 AND take home a signed copy of her new cookbook, “Tasting Rome.” The book captures the unique culinary character of the city – a culmination of 2,000 years of history. Parla has written and edited more than 20 books, and her food criticism and travel musings have appeared in The New York Times, Saveur, Food & Wine, Condé Nast Traveler, Bon Appétit, Travel + Leisure, Lucky Peach and many more. The “Tasting Rome” dinner, served family style, progresses through four traditional Italian courses. Antipasto opens with arugula and pine nut salad and fritti of supplì cacio e pepe and “nduja in carozza.” The primi pasta course features cacio e pepe, gricia with rigatoni and spaghetti with bottarga and cicoria. Secondo follows, bringing porchetta and vedure ripassate in padella to the table. A dolce of crostata sweetly closes the meal. $60 per person includes dinner and a signed copy of the cookbook (tax and service fee extra). Suggested wine pairings also are available for an additional fee. The “Tasting Rome” menu will be offered from 5:30-10 p.m. For reservations, call the restaurant at 404-500-2181 or visit OpenTable.

Chef Jamie Lynch Heads to James Beard House – Preview His Menu at Special 5Church Atlanta Dinner Jan. 24

5Church executive chef, partner and “Top Chef” contestant Jamie Lynch will cook at the James Beard House on Feb. 8 with fellow 5Church chef Adam Hodgson. Logistics may prevent you from attending that event. On one special night, however, diners can enjoy their James Beard House menu at a special preview dinner at 5Church Atlanta in Midtown on Tuesday, Jan. 24, two weeks before the chef duo flies off to New York City. The four-course, prix fixe preview dinner with wine pairings begins at 7 p.m. and is priced at $85 per person (excluding tax and gratuity). The menu features winter squash salad with compressed stone fruit, tempura greens and aïoli accompanied by Piper-Heidsieck Champagne brut NV; sautéed skate with root vegetables Parisienne and blood orange grenobloise sauce paired with Weingut Josef Leitz rosé 2015; wood pigeon roulade with cauliflower, sake-braised turnip and wild mushrooms along with Château La Nerthe Châteauneuf-du-Pape 2012; and dessert of PB&J -- butter brioche with peanut butter zeppelin, ruby port spheres and Gianduja chocolate, paired with 5Church Signature port wine hot chocolate. Limited seating. Reservations required with 48-hour advance cancellation notice; call 5Church Atlanta at 404-400-3669. Validated parking and complimentary valet available.

“Seas” Sunday Brunch at Drift Fish House & Oyster Bar Beginning Jan. 22

East Cobbers setting sail for a top-notch Sunday brunch now have a must-do destination, Drift Fish House & Oyster Bar for brunch from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. The Sunday brunch menu, filled by chef/owner Doug Turbush and executive chef Brendan Keenan, glows with more gems than a treasure chest. Current lunch favorites such as crab deviled eggs ($9), fish and chips ($16) and raw oysters are bolstered by imaginative brunch options like the lobster chilaquiles with chipotle, avocado, Cotija cheese and crema ($17) and the “Hangtown” Benedict with 12-hour thick cut bacon, fried oysters, poached eggs and brown butter hollandaise ($16). Non-seafood selections - including sweet and savory dishes such as house made doughnut holes ($6), praline French toast with salted caramel and bourbon cream ($12), Dutch baby “pancake” with lemon sabayon ($11) and the Drift burger ($14) - round out the menu alongside tasty soups, salads and sides. The menu is complemented by a selection of brunch cocktails courtesy of beverage manager Jose Pereiro. Soon-to-be favorites include the Just Beet It (vodka, beet shrub, lime and mint) and the Rock the Boat (rum, mango, jalapeño and cilantro). Your brunch ship has come in at The Avenue East Cobb. 

Ray’s on the River Winter Wine Dinner Jan. 21

Ray’s on the River saves you the airfare to the West Coast as they host a Winter Wine Dinner on Jan. 21 featuring a variety of California wines including Caymus Special Selection cabernet sauvignon. The evening begins with a reception at 6:30 p.m. with dinner beginning promptly at 7 p.m. The meal includes a California dreamy five-course dinner from chef AJ Jones with wine pairings. The first course consists of cured opah cheek with tarragon apple purée, radish and wonton chip paired with Roederer Estate brut while a second course brings wildflower salad with frisée, minted pea purée and white balsamic mist along with 2014 Hyland Estates riesling. Moving on to the third course, you’ll find roasted pheasant, Black Mission fig, Asher Blue cheese mousse and honey lavender gastrique with 2013 Emmolo merlot followed by hand-carved elk rack, gnocchi, maitake, cipollini and bone marrow reduction paired with Caymus Special Selection cabernet sauvignon. Dessert presents peach mousse bomboloni, candied peel and raspberry paint along with a glass of Orin Swift “Locations F.” The Winter Wine Dinner is $95 per guest plus tax and gratuity. Space is limited and reservations are required with credit card to hold; call 770-955-1187.

What's New on Pinterest: Refreshingly Rejuvenated

Who needs a celebrity personal trainer/chef to prepare healthy eats when there’s our Refreshingly Rejuvenated board to spur you on? Start 2017 clean as a whistle by following a 72-hour juice cleanse. Counter winter dehydration by DIY-ing flavor-infused waters. Ginger power hot flu shots “blast away those nasties.” Wise chews and brews include Buddha bowls, acai smoothie bowls, avocado, kale and raspberry smoothie bowls, and banana almond flax or blueberry superfood smoothies.

Foodgram: Hungry Girls Do It Better

Hungry Girls Do It Better and they’re really good at uncovering awesome Atlanta eats. And, such willpower. Imagine, prioritizing camera ahead of fork…capturing the essence of a Dolce Italian pizza or Corso Coffee croissant before devouring the subject.

Appetizing Aperture: Ormsby's Southern Sweet Potato Chips

Another example of why Southern food rules – Ormsby’s Southern sweet potato chips. Chips the color of a Southern sunrise come backed by bacon (another Southern staple), blue cheese and tangy green onions ($6). Seriously, have you ever heard anyone tout Northern sweet potato chips? Doubtful.

Say “I Do” to Engagement Parties, Rehearsal Dinners and Wedding Receptions at Atlanta Restaurants

Did ringing in the new year include bubbly and a sparkling engagement ring? Here come the bride and groom, family and friends looking for the perfect setting to celebrate impending nuptials or host a reception. Intimate? Grand? Elegant? Casual? Simply Southern? Start by giving these Atlanta restaurants a ring. Get all the details on our blog.

Start the Year Strong with Incentives from Marlow's Tavern, Big Peach Running Company and Rodney Strong Vineyards

Marlow's Tavern, Big Peach Running Company and Rodney Strong Vineyards are tag-teaming to encourage folks to tie on their sneakers and get moving in 2017. Run to Marlow's Tavern locations to snag an appetizer and glass of Rodney Strong chardonnay or merlot for $14. Choose a combo of either Marlow's Famous Hummus and a glass of Rodney Strong chardonnay Sonoma or JT's Kettle Chips and a glass of Rodney Strong merlot Sonoma. There's another reason to jump off the couch and run out: Get 15 percent off your purchase at Big Peach Running Company stores the next time you dine at Marlow’s. Wine + app special and discount on purchases run through March 31; discount does not apply to closeout items. Marlow's Tavern Insiders receive news about happenings and invitations to special events. Want in? Sign up here.

Save on Jordan Wine by Glass or Bottle at Ray’s Restaurants through Feb. 19

Ray’s Restaurants is doing its part to add two dear wines to your tried-and-true list this year – and spend less along the way. For a limited time, Ray’s in the City, Ray’s on the River and Ray’s at Killer Creek are pouring two Jordan Wine varietals at tantalizing savings. Jordan chardonnay is specially priced at $20 per eight-ounce glass or $60 for the bottle, and Jordan cabernet sauvignon tempts at $27 per eight-ounce glass and $80 per bottle. Contributing to the “Wow!” factor, Ray’s Restaurants typically does not offer these Alexander Valley, California wines by the glass, and regular restaurant prices usually run $80 for chardonnay and $120 for cabernet sauvignon. Go with the flow and take advantage of these wine-some savings through Feb. 19.

Ray’s at Killer Creek Floats Duckhorn Wine Dinner with Guest Speaker for Jan. 18

A Napa Valley gourmet getaway warms up a winter Wednesday evening when Ray’s at Killer Creek hosts a Duckhorn Wine Dinner on Jan. 18. The exclusive event begins promptly at 6:30 p.m. to ensure a leisurely evening of dining as well as an informative talk by Duckhorn Vineyards district manager Scott Miller. You’ll want to savor every morsel and sip on executive chef Mike Fuller‘s exquisite five-course menu with wine pairings. Courses progress through Nantucket Bay scallops, candied pork belly, satsuma orange red quinoa paired with Duckhorn sauvignon blanc 2015; sea salt foie gras torchon, paper-thin walnut raisin toast with Goldeneye Anderson Valley pinot noir; salad of chicory, toasted pecans, dried cranberries, orange peel and Clemson blue cheese fritters with Duckhorn “Three Palms” merlot; slow-roasted Wagyu short rib, navy bean and ‘nduja cassoulet and shaved fennel salad with Duckhorn “The Discussion” 2012; and an ending of warm chocolate bread pudding, homemade Luxardo cherry ice cream, praline dust and burnt sugar syrup served with Paraduxx Proprietary Red 2013. Reservations are required for the $95 per-person dinner (price excludes tax and gratuity); call 770-649-0064.

Shout Out about a Stout Outing -- Terrapin Beer’s Wake N Bake Off Atlanta for The Giving Kitchen Jan. 15

Ormsby’s executive chef Nick Anderson is among stout-hearted chefs strong arming stout into sweet and savory recipes for the fourth annual Wake N Bake Off Atlanta at Argosy from 6-10 p.m. on Sunday, Jan. 15. Kitchen musings will play out using Terrapin’s Wake-n-Bake Coffee Oatmeal Imperial Stout. Buy a $20 ticket online to come taste the goods, pour out opinions on winners and chance scoring raffle prizes. The beery popular fundraiser benefits The Giving Kitchen. Pull our blog out of the oven for more details.

SweetWater Releases Second Helping IPA Jan. 14, Sales Benefit The Giving Kitchen

SweetWater Brewing Company is releasing Second Helping, a special, limited-release IPA available only in Atlanta, at Taco Mac locations on Saturday, Jan. 14. For the fourth year in a row, SweetWater and United Distributors are donating 100 percent of the profits from this juniper berry-infused brew to The Giving Kitchen. More than $150,000 has been raised in this fashion. Toast the beer and the beneficiary. Available at all 25 Taco Mac locations in Georgia, except Stockbridge, Douglasville, Suwanee, Virginia-Highland and Philips Arena.

What’s New on Pinterest: Slow Your Roll

Time to slow down after tackling the holiday hustle and bustle. Thank goodness January is National Slow Food month. Fire up the slow cooker and mosey on over to Slow Your Roll for comforting saviors like Mexican shredded beef, meatball subs, Parmesan chicken, sloppy Joes and baked ziti. Work in some veggies through chicken broccoli and rice casserole. Ladle bowls full of steaming hot “Olive Garden” pasta e fagioli, cheddar-bacon-ranch potato soup or creamy tortellini soup. And turn to the Crock-Pot for the easiest monkey bread ever…then roll over and sneak in a couple more hours of sleep.

#Foodgram: Everything Bagels

Round and round she goes on Everything Bagels, which goes round and round the mind boggling question of “What can you do with a bagel?” This album has all the answers in full-of-color photos. Blue (not blueberry) bagels for Hanukkah, the red and green of a NYC Christmas bagel, heavenly bacon on a bagel and bagels oozing truffle grilled cheese are just the start…and as you know, bagels are circles so they just keep going.

Appetizing Aperture: Storico Fresco's Piadina Panini

Storico Fresco Alimentari satisfies those pressing lunchtime decisions such as how to get some healthy greens in when you really want to bite into bread, meat and cheese. Hot-pressed Piadina panini embrace spicy green arugula, bright red cherry tomatoes – and the salty kick of prosciutto and creamy mozzarella di bufala ($11). Hands on; don’t bother with a fork.

Reel in $1.99 Meal for Kids 12 and Under at The Big Ketch

We love them, but like anyone, kids can get a bit, shall we say, “crabby” when they’re hungry…and that’s usually around 4-6 p.m. Parents, your rescue ship’s come in and it’s docking at The Big Ketch Saltwater Grill. Both the Buckhead and Canton Street restaurant locations are offering a $1.99 Kid’s Fun Zone meal deal Monday through Wednesday from 4-6 p.m., dine in only. Children 12 and under can sink their claws (and teeth) into a Fun Zone menu meal, normally $6.95, for only $1.99 (plus tax) with the purchase of an adult entrée. Youngsters go for land and sea choices of grilled or fried chicken fingers or shrimp, crispy fish bites, cheeseburger or grilled cheese sandwich, and each comes with a side of seasonal fresh fruit, chips, coleslaw or corn on the cob and a beverage. Drop anchor on your way to and fro? We think so!

Atlanta Restaurants: Weather Status

Atlanta Restaurants: Winter Weather Status

These Atlanta-area restaurants are currently planning to stay open Friday and Saturday (Jan. 6 and 7) during the winter weather! We'll keep updating this list as things change. #ATLopen #Snow 2017 #OpeninATL

• 5Church will be open regular hours Friday and Saturday for brunch and dinner and will open at 5 p.m. on Saturday for dinner only.
• Aria will be closed Friday night and plans on reopening for dinner service on Saturday.
• Atkins Park Restaurant & Bar - VA Highland
• Ormsby's 
• Hand in Hand
• The Federal will be open except for Saturday brunch service
• Marlow's Tavern
• Taco Mac (locations may vary)
• Antico will open at 12 p.m. on Saturday
• Bar Amalfi will open at 12 p.m. on Saturday
• Caffe Antico will open at 12 p.m. on Saturday
• Gio's Chicken will open at 12 p.m. on Saturday
• HOBNOB
• Willy's Mexicana Grill: Closing at 4 p.m. Friday; locations may vary
• Gunshow
• Revival
• Rize Artisan Pizza and Salads will open at 3 p.m. on Saturday
• Seed Kitchen & Bar, Stem Wine Bar and Drift Fish House & Oyster Bar: Closed for dinner on Friday night and lunch on Saturday. Planning on opening for dinner at 5 p.m. on Saturday.
• Storico Fresco will open at 12 p.m. on Saturday
• Johnny's Hideaway will open at 7 p.m. on Saturday
• Jefe's Tacos & Tequila
• Kaleidoscope Bistro & Pub
• The Southern Gentleman will open at 4 p.m. on Saturday
• Gypsy Kitchen will open at 5 p.m. on Saturday
• The Big Ketch Saltwater Grill Buckhead and Canton Street: Canton Street closing at 9 p.m. 
• Tin Lizzy's Cantina
• Milton's Cuisine & Cocktails: Closing at 9 p.m. Saturday
• The Blind Pig: Closed Saturday night.
• Sublime Doughnuts (North Druid Hills location is closing at 3 p.m. on Friday. Will reopen when possible.) 
• Ray's Rio Bravo
• Ray's at Killer Creek
• Ray's on the River
• Ray's in the City
• American Cut 
• The Regent Cocktail Club
• Dolce Italian
• Corso Coffee
• Chicken and the Egg will be closing at 8 p.m. on Friday and will open for brunch at 11 a.m. on Saturday

Stream into Stem Wine Bar for Game of Rhones January Wine Tasting Series

Hit record; kings and thrones can wait. Game of Rhones wine tastings conquer Wednesday nights at East Cobb’s Stem Wine Bar during the month of January. Owner and chef Doug Turbush and sommelier Chris McNeill welcome wine lovers to their kingdom for an informative tasting of varietals originating in France’s famed Rhone Valley realm and royally paired with six small bites. Wine tastings run 6:30-8 p.m. and cost $40 per person (plus $3.19 service fee; gratuity added at in-store checkout). Space is limited so click on your preferred tasting date and buy tickets today for wine tastings on Jan. 4, Jan. 11, Jan. 18 and Jan. 25.

Wake Up Sundays with Revival Brunch Beginning Jan. 8

Slow down. Enough with the 2016 rush. Ease into 2017 over a leisurely Sunday brunch at Revival, an option beginning Jan. 8 at the popular Decatur restaurant. Chef/owner Kevin Gillespie waxes nostalgic about childhood days when the pace of life paused for weekend family breakfasts. Revival’s brunch menu is an assortment of cherished Gillespie family recipes and favorites from executive chef Andreas Müller, including the Closed-on-Sunday chicken sandwich, griddled meatloaf sandwich with aged cheddar on a caramelized onion roll and other Southern classics such as smoked ham and onion breakfast strata; breakfast plate with two eggs, grits, sausage, bacon and biscuits; and catfish bites over grits with gravy. Slide in for brunch Sundays from 10:30 a.m.-3 p.m. Revival also serves dinner Wednesday through Sunday beginning at 5 p.m. Reservations are accepted but not required and can be made online or by calling 470-225-6770.

TV Dinner? Join “Atlanta Eats” at Rize in Poncey-Highland on Jan. 4

Psst. ”Atlanta Eats” is dropping into Rize Artisan Pizza + Salads in Poncey-Highland on Wednesday, Jan. 4 to film an upcoming episode, cueing you to rise to the occasion and drop in for dinner. From 5-7 p.m. that evening, guests will receive a free small plate with the purchase of any entrée. How’s that for a spin on the whole watching TV while eating dinner scenario? Plus, Rize loads its menu with pleasing dishes for a wide range of appetites with signature and custom pizzas ($9.50-$13.50); salads in full and half portions ($7-11); delectable seafood, meaty and vegetable-rich pastas ($10); small plates ($7); and flatbreads ($8). The kids menu offers pizza, pasta and hummus plates that thrill youngsters and include a beverage and scoop of gelato ($7.50). Craft beers, wines by the glass and handcrafted sangrias up the ante for adults while teas, lemonade and craft sodas quench thirsts for guests of all ages.

What's New on Pinterest: New Year, New You

New Year, New You stocks an arsenal of healthy ideas. Raid the kitchen instead of the drug store for cold and flu fighting drinks and detox-ers. Prep for the work week by portioning out skinny Southwest chicken salad or honey sesame chicken into lunch bowls, making protein stacks that actually fill you up or compiling a grocery list based on no-cook meal preps for 1,200-1,500 calories per day. Greet morning sipping a groovy mango-orange-banana sunrise smoothie then stick a straw in a chocolate peanut butter or cucumber avocado smoothie to fill up and hydrate midday. And yes, Santa, there really are comfort foods and healthy dinners coming in under 500 calories. Believe.

Foodgram: @Shutthekaleup

Those scared to dive, cold turkey, into a healthier new year will find encouragement and tons of inspirational eating ideas like simple bowls, smoothies and sea salt chocolate chip cookies (slightly healthy) at @shutthekaleup. The feisty and fit mom and yoga sculpting instructor goes the extra mile by blogging at shutthekaleup.com.