Atlanta Restaurants: Weather Status

Check out these Atlanta-area restaurants if you are looking for a cozy place to stay and a warm meal today. We'll keep updating this list as things change. #OpenInATL #ATLOpen #SnowDay

#OpenInATL for regular business hours:

• Atkins Park Restaurant & Bar - VA Highland
• Livingston

• Babalu Tapas & Tacos

• Ray's in the City

• Ray's at Killer Creek

• Ray's on the River
• The Federal
• Bantam + Biddy Ansley, closing at 6 p.m. Opens at 10 a.m. on 1/18
• Bantam + Biddy Avalon, closing at 3 p.m. Opens at 10 a.m. on 1/18
• Chick-a-Biddy, closing at 6 p.m. 
• HOBNOB Neighborhood Tavern (Brookhaven and Midtown)
• Henri's Bakery & Cafe (Buckhead and Westside opening at 10 a.m. on 1/18)
• Ormsby's
• The Nook is open for lunch but will close at 5 p.m.
• The Southern Gentleman
• Gypsy Kitchen
• Smokebelly
• The Big Ketch - Canton Street and Buckhead
• Beni's Cubano - East Cobb and Downtown
• American Cut
• 5Church Atlanta
• Tin Lizzy's Cantina - all locations
• Johnny's Hideaway, opening at 7 p.m.
• Marlow's Tavern (Except Buford and Emory Point)
• Please call your local tavern first to confirm hours of operation

#ClosedInATL:

• Henri's Bakery & Cafe - Sandy Springs
• Perks Coffee
• Johnny's Hideaway
• Gunshow
• Revival
• Seed Kitchen & Bar
• Drift Fish House & Oyster Bar
• Stem Wine Bar
• Marlow's Tavern - Buford and Emory Point
• The Regent Cocktail Club
• Chicken and the Egg
• Brine Seafood Shack
• FEED Fried Chicken + Such
• Aria
• Umi
• gusto! - Buckhead and Ponce
• Storico Fresco Alimentari
• Edgar's Proof & Provision
• Willy's Mexicana Grill (all locations)
• ATL Taco

Marlow’s Tavern Duluth is Turning Nine, Partying Fine on Jan. 17

Join Marlow’s Tavern Duluth in celebrating nine fun-filled years of pleasing friends and neighbors at an anniversary party on Wednesday, Jan. 17 from 5-11 p.m. The congenial gathering spot for American favorites -- food and libations -- is shaking up handcrafted cocktails and chef-inspired dinner specials for the evening. Live music by the Troy Cono Duo sets the party tempo from 6-9 p.m. While there, be sure to enter a special anniversary party drawing to win dinner for a year and other great prizes.

What’s New on Pinterest: Better Be Baked

Welcome National Baking Month by preheating the oven to 350 degrees, pouring a cuppa Joe or spot of tea and scrolling through Better Be Baked for a bevy of baked goods to warm frigid winter days. Instead of ice cream, make a strawberry crunch cake based on the classic ice cream bar. Dive into the fudgy depths of deep-dish chocolate chip cookie skillet brownie, easy chocolate lava cakes or “Brookies” chocolate chip brownie swirl cookies. Peach cobbler, caramel apple cheesecake bars and 30-minute cinnamon sugar knots chisel away the chills. Girl Scouts, look out, cinnamon roll cookies, raspberry almond shortbread thumbprints and Reese’s stuffed peanut butter cookies are hot-out-of-the-oven competitors for your cookie customers.

#Foodgram: Grandbaby Cakes

How many of you credit grandma with your first cooking and baking sessions…sifting, stirring, rolling? Jocelyn Delk Adams of Grandbaby Cakes is one such grandma-inspired cook turned author/TV expert/food and travel blogger. The “TODAY” show tastemaker has been seen on “The Rachael Ray Show,” Food Network and Cooking Channel. Adams doles out tidbits of advice, too, just like grandma.

Appetizing Aperture: 5Church's Rest My Ruby Rest Cocktail

Aromatherapy devotees trust citrus oils and essences to energize and uplift spirits -- two qualities guaranteed to brighten any winter day or night. So why not imbibe those citrusy elements in a cocktail, like “Rest My Ruby Rest” at 5Church Atlanta in Midtown. Lead bartender Keyatta Mincey dry shakes a mix of Reposado Patrón tequila, hibiscus syrup, lemon juice, Peychaud’s bitters, 18.21 hibiscus bitters and egg white, reshakes with ice and double-strains the works into a vintage-style glass. Expressed lemon peel and a hibiscus bloom garnish this glass of Florida-ish sunshine.

Slide Right into HOBNOB for Wednesday Slider Night

Max out on those yummy little bun-fulls at HOBNOB Slider Nights, each Wednesday at both the Midtown and Town Brookhaven HOBNOB Neighborhood Tavern locations. Three new sliders hit the menu every week starting at 5 p.m. The tender sliders are priced at $3.50 each to appease appetites until supplies run out. Town Brookhaven HOBNOB-ers reap an added bonus, live music starting at 7:30 p.m. Another upside to slipping down these mighty minis? More room for one of HOBNOB’s adult milkshakes, like the oatmeal cream pie with horchata and Fireball whiskey ($9), the Stoli O- and Grand Marnier-laced orange “creamsicle” ($10) or the classic, non-alcoholic chocolate shake ($6.50).

gusto! Billboard Championship Winners Alexis Louder and John Harris Britton Beam Down from Above Ponce

Two gung-ho gusto! fans are ousting the usual advertisers gracing the billboards located above Green’s Beverages on Ponce de Leon Avenue in Midtown. The faces of Alexis Louder and John Harris Britton, #gustobillboardchampionship winners, will beam down from the billboard for two weeks each this month. The fall “board” game contest is the brainchild of gusto! founder Nate Hybl, conceived as a bold way to show appreciation for guests who champion his brand and embrace the Atlanta community. Guests could submit entry slips at either gusto! location (Midtown and Buckhead) or tag three friends on any gusto! Facebook or Instagram post. Winners Louder and Britton were chosen at random through in-store and social media drawings. Louder, a Cobb County resident who digs the chipotle mango avocado gusto, frequents gusto! because it’s “quick, healthy and soooo tasty!” Midtown resident Britton has only been in Atlanta a couple of months. He’s already in love with the thoughtfully crafted blend of flavor profile ingredients at gusto! -- especially the apple curry peanut gusto. Both Louder and Britton love visiting Piedmont Park. Fortunately, the park’s proximity to gusto! on Ponce bodes well for their smiling faces to gravitate toward their favorite happy, healthy mealtime spot.

Naughty & Nice Coexist on “Keep the Balance” Limited Time Special Menu at The Big Ketch Saltwater Grill

Working on that delicate balance of yin and yang? The “brrrr” factor of cold weather can dip dinnertime toward melt-away morsels dressed in creamy sauces, juicy meats and smoky bacon. While nonstop daytime schedules, however, demand high-energy, lower-calorie power lunches of grilled seafood, plentiful veggies and cool salads to avoid embarrassing post-lunch snoozes. Empathizing with the struggle, The Big Ketch Saltwater Grill sets forth a “Keep the Balance” menu of “Nice” low-cal lunchtime pleasers and comforting (and a wee bit decadent) “Naughty” dinner dishes. Enjoy both through the end of February.

To stay alert, focused and energized, choose a “Nice” lunch special surfacing under 500 calories. Net a grilled shrimp wrap with lettuce, cucumber, tomato, feta and tzatziki sauce served with a side house salad or side Caesar ($11.95) or choose a refreshing shrimp and crab salad plate with mixed greens, yogurt aioli, tomatoes, eggs and cucumbers ($11.95). “Naughty” brightens nightfall with soul-satiating dishes such as succulent Maine lobster mac and cheese with Gouda béchamel sauce and Parmesan crumbs ($23.95) or The Big Ketch bacon double cheeseburger boasting two griddled beef patties, Applewood smoked bacon, American cheese, crispy onions and pickles ($13.95). Stay even-keeled and seek balance now by hurrying into either The Big Ketch Buckhead or Canton Street for these powerful lunches and richly rewarding dinners -- before this menu casts away. 

AmericasMart Market Goers, Take a Break and Relax at Ray’s in the City

Perusing all the new merchandise at the AmericasMart Atlanta January market is so exhilarating. The buying, writing orders and chatting up a storm…followed by an aching desire to plop down, sip a cocktail and savor every morsel of an exquisite meal served by pampering staff. Nirvana awaits at Ray’s in the City, a mere one-minute walk on Peachtree, right around the corner from AmericasMart. If the midday schedule allows, pop in for a sustaining lunch encompassing hot soup du jour, seafood gumbo or high-power signature salads ($11-$26); strong handhelds like the salmon BLT, crabcake sandwich or hickory BBQ bacon burger ($14-$17); and Ray’s specialties such as steak frites, crispy shrimp and grits or the chef’s seasonally inspired pasta ($16-$33). Evenings, exit the showroom and unwind to the sounds of live music in the lounge from 6-10 p.m. and Atlanta’s best downtown dining. Share starters of steamed mussels, Ray’s blue cheese chips or “New Orleans” BBQ shrimp, crispy Point Judith calamari with sweet peppers and San Marzano tomato marinara, fresh cold-water oysters or the hot appetizer platter for four to six guests ($13-$70). Recharge over signature salads and entrées including Springer Mountain Farms chicken, salmon Oscar, Parmesan scallops and sun corn roasted trout. Ray’s is renowned for hand-cut steaks and chops featuring aged beef in filet mignon (eight- and 12-ounce cuts), New York strip, Delmonico rib-eye and tenderloin steak frites. Gluten-free options please those watching their diets. A classic cocktail, glass of wine or craft brew will erase any day-end tensions. In town over the weekend? Leave the hotel room behind to enjoy brunch on Saturday and Sunday or ”Wine” Down in the City with half-price bottles of wine on Sundays from 12:30 p.m. until close. To make reservations, call 404-524-9224.

Appetizing Aperture: Revival's Winter Vegetable Pasta

Stash the hand and toe warmers for some other cold night. Freshly made pappardelle pasta at Revival, chef Kevin Gillespie’s Decatur restaurant, melts hearts and souls from the inside out. Chef Nicole Edwards’ winter vegetable pasta wears a cloak of garlic and white wine cream sauce dressed with parsnips, fennel, sweet onion, local squash, sage and frisée ($16). Swoon-worthy, and use your spoon to cradle every saucy drop.

Brides, Grooms, Say “We do!” at Milton’s Cuisine & Cocktails

 

Ring (as in engagement) in the New Year? Involving sparkling carats and eyes aglow? Congratulations! Let the wedding planning begin by “farming” out festivities -- including the ceremony -- to Milton’s Cuisine & Cocktails in idyllic North Fulton. The unique restaurant fills a historic Crabapple farmhouse that has seen more than 150 years of life, love and laughter. Charm exudes from homestead and porch out over the lawn and into Milton’s Acre, an onsite garden where Milton’s grows its own veggies and herbs and hosts its signature garden dinners around long communal tables. Farmhouse, neat rows and an arbor-covered center path provide a picturesque backdrop for a sophisticated Southern wedding, well-balanced with style from ceremony to reception or a true seed-to-fork dining experience. Chef Derek Dollar tailors a menu of regionally inspired comfort foods to suit your desires, be it for brunch, dinner or hors d’oeuvre accompanied by bar stations mixing classic and creative libations. Milton’s welcoming staff delivers the cherished nuptial gift of a stress-free event where bride, groom, family and guests can all relax and celebrate the momentous occasion. To set the ball rolling from start through the big day, contact Milton’s events and marketing manager Jill Hayes (jill@miltonscuisine.com). She also can set you up with photographer Ashley Blencoe (www.BlencoeAndCo.com), who’s well versed in views at the historic venue and ready to capture the picture-perfect day.

#Foodgram: Alexandra's Kitchen

Thanks, mom! Alexandra Stoddard credits her mom for instilling a love of cooking and baking from scratch. Homemade bread graced the daily table. How do we know such trivia? Photos @alexandracooks enticed us to rabbit trail to her well-recognized blog Alexandra’s Kitchen and to her “Bread Toast Crumbs” cookbook that’s loaded with no-knead bread recipes. Fire up the ovens and bake your way through winter.

Basque Sundays at Gypsy Kitchen Pours Half-Off Bottled Wine, $6 Rosé, Menu Features

Experience Spain in the heart of Buckhead at Gypsy Kitchen Basque Sundays. Sit back and enjoy live flamenco guitar music while sipping $6 glasses of rosé and half-priced bottles of wine. Savor menu items such as seared tuna tataki with Moroccan spices and warm gigante beans, queso frito with Basque cider apple purée and arugula, or charred vegetable paella “fried rice” with spring onions, zucchini, eggplant, red peppers and sofrito. The journey to Spain begins with drink specials at 5 p.m. and continues with flamenco music from 6:30-9:30 p.m. every Sunday.

Atlanta Eateries Score College Football Playoff National Championship Views, Brews and Chews

The 2017-18 college football season culminates Monday, Jan. 8 when the College Football Playoff National Championship parks a whole lot of spirit at Atlanta’s Mercedes-Benz Stadium, and Atlanta restaurants are right up there on the spirit-meter for fans looking for viewing spots.

Fans arriving over the weekend will be able to experience dinner at Aria, chef Gerry Klaskala’s Buckhead gem. Typically closed on Sunday nights, the restaurant will be open and serving dinner on Jan. 7, closing Monday night, Jan. 8 instead (staff wants to watch the game). Make reservations here.
  Atkins Park Restaurant & Bar in Virginia-Highland plans a winning evening for football fans, offering game-time grub, a large beer selection and of course, plenty of TVs for the ultimate viewing experience.

For those lucky enough to score tickets to the big game, Kevin Gillespie’s Gamechanger is located in the 200 concourse Western end zone of Atlanta’s Mercedes-Benz Stadium.  Football fans can order from a lineup of tasty bites like the “Closed on Sunday” chicken sandwich, as well as other indulgent creations like pork shoulder “French dip,” smoked cheddar cheese steaks, fries and adult slushies.
  Henri’s Bakery & Café puts football-shaped and team-themed cookies into play. Pick up some at the new Henri’s Bakery Westside location or the Buckhead or Sandy Springs shops for tailgates or game-watching parties.
  HOBNOB Neighborhood Tavern locations in Midtown and Town Brookhaven have a full lineup of game-day faves on the menu plus shots, creative cocktails and a ready roster of cool craft brews. This fall, the Brookhaven restaurant installed an additional large-screen TV, making it even easier to catch all the action. Call 404-464-8971 (Town Brookhaven) or 404-968-2288 (Midtown).
  Marlow’s Tavern in Midtown is the perfect spot to grab a drink and watch the big game. Atlanta’s favorite tavern has several flat screen plasma TVs, booze and classic dishes to keep you going and rooting for your team.

For a drink and entertainment, pop over to Ormsby’s. This Westside neighborhood tavern offers an extensive craft beer selection, fresh pub menu and a wide range of traditional games. Open until 3 a.m. for after-game gatherings.

For those who prefer night-before or pre-game fine dining, Ray’s in the City is just a mile from the stadium. Enjoy hand-cut steaks, made-to-order sushi and seafood flown in daily from the Atlantic and Pacific oceans. Reservations: 404-524-9224.

Suds and sauce are game-face ready at Smokebelly BBQ. Pull for your players on Monday night over $3 Bud Light drafts, $10 pitchers of Bud Light, $15 buckets of Bud/Bud Light, $5 Tito’s cocktails and 50 cent wings. Rip into ribs, wings and barbecued beef, pork and chicken while catching all the action on 16 big screens.

Hone in on great game views, those renowned wings and beers from a seemingly gridiron-long list of beers at all Taco Mac locations. No matter which team you root for, you can still be on the Brewniversity team -- a champion choice for beer aficionados.

Address Eat-Healthy New Year’s Resolutions with gusto!

 

 

New Year’s resolutions overwhelmingly revolve around physical well-being, yet while 40 percent of Americans make resolutions, only 8 percent actually follow through. Having a healthy/tasty/timely and cost-conscious buddy like gusto! helps make these goals reachable. Nate Hybl, gusto! founder and a former athlete, encourages Atlantans to venture beyond regional menu boundaries and awaken their senses with the fresh, global flavors of the fresh bowls and wraps served at the eatery’s two locations (Ponce and Peachtree). Sticking to the healthy eating plan is easy since gusto! serves a simple menu of bowls and wraps topped with chicken, shrimp or portabella mushroom -- combined with thoughtfully crafted blends of ingredients that add distinct flavor profiles and textures to each entrée. International and American flavor profiles promoting fresh flavors, not fat, are known as “gustos” and can be hot, bright, earthy or sweet, like tahini cucumber feta or sweet soy Sriracha. Guests may choose to add avocado to any order, and each entrée comes with house-made sweet potato chips. Entrée foundations -- flatbread wraps, mixed greens and brown rice -- thrill vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free followers. Beneficial ingredients, such as turmeric, snow peas, mangoes and chickpeas along with all-natural antibiotic-free chicken and wild-caught shrimp, steer everyone in a healthier direction. The fast-casual restaurant uses local, organic ingredients whenever possible and still keeps all entrées in the $8.95-$10.95 price zone. Fast, friendly and affordable gusto! keeps your resolve intact as you achieve those 2018 goals. 

What’s New on Pinterest: Light Delights

Your body yearns for lighter snacks, meals and desserts after a month of holiday indulgences. Still, no one wants to go cold turkey on naked carrot and celery sticks. These Light Delights stand in as satisfying imposters that taste more decadent than they are. Avocado chicken salad, some crudité along with Tricia Yearwood’s spicy edamame dip, wraps and pesto pasta salad brighten indoor lunchtime. Be the quinoa queen (or king), repping the “q” in apple cinnamon quinoa, hearty chicken stew with butternut squash, sesame chicken, curried chicken salad or easy and delicious roasted vegetable quinoa. You might eat the whole batch of caramelized onion and cauliflower. Shelly’s chocolate crunch protein ice cream, tropical yogurt parfaits and no-bake coconut brownie bites obliterate dessert deprivation.

Now Boarding -- Taco Mac East Coast/West Coast Flights, Jan. 1-Mar. 31

Wouldn’t call them “flight fights,” but breweries from the East and West coasts are girding their IPAs to face off during the Taco Mac West Coast versus East Coast flight lineup, Jan. 1-Mar. 31. Are tastes well balanced on both coasts? Taste and see. Representing the West Coast force, the powerful roster promises 10 Bourbon Barrel Apocalypse, Terrapin Hi-5, Uinta West Coast IPA and Ballast Point Sculpin. East Coast locks in with Brooklyn East IPA, Dogfish Head 60 Minute IPA, Southern Tier 2XIPA and Jekyll Southern Juice. Grab a seat and take off on a first-class East Coast or West Coast beer lover’s taste treat of four six-ounce beers. Travel light, no baggage required, just bring friends for this East/West balance of brews. Be sure to take advantage of this sudsy showdown to earn Brewniversity credits.

What’s New on Pinterest: Holiday Happy Hour

Throw together a Holiday Happy Hour with these tidbits that are easy to prepare -- and hold and eat, beverage in one hand. Roasted cranberry brie crostini, cranberry brie bites and an onion-cranberry-pecan cheeseball highlight the seasonal tart red berry. Mini pecan pies and eggnog cheesecakes with gingerbread cookie crusts satisfy that I-just-want-one-sweet-bite craving. Same size but savory finds include sundried tomato pesto bites, filet mignon bites with creamy horseradish, mini baked potatoes and Cajun shrimp guacamole bites. In your other hand? A holiday pomegranate mimosa, coconut eggnog, cinnamon apple cider martini, cider and champagne cocktail, a glass of jingle juice holiday punch or any of the other spirited bevvies.

#Foodgram: Pinch of Yum

Pinch of Yum Instagrammer Lindsay Ostrom doles out way more than a pinch of yummy comfort foods, including plenty of hearty eats for vegetarians. She’s recipe surfed and found winners such as Skinnytaste’s Crock-Pot beef ragu with pappardelle. No one will miss the meat in hearty vegetarian shepherd’s pie. Lunch preppers can fix a week’s worth of spicy chicken and rice. She’s okay with showing a sweet side, as well, swearing her “modern scotcheroos” made with five ingredients and minimal refined sugars are the first to go off the holiday dessert tray. Pinch us so we’ll know this album’s not just a delicious dream.

Appetizing Aperture: Food 101's 101 Breakfast Plate

Two eggs, home fries, smoked bacon and a hot biscuit. Start Saturday or Sunday with the 101 Breakfast Plate ($12) at Food 101 in Sandy Springs, and you’re ready to tackle the weekend chore list or set out on an adventure. Depending on your post-brunch plans, add eye-opening brunch cocktails like the 101 bloody mary, Cathead cocktail, “Wang, Tang Doodle” or “The Bold & The Beautiful” ($8-$11), brunch bubbles or go the more tame route toward javas, herbal teas and craft sodas.

Reserve Seats? Neat! Southern Proper Hospitality Restaurants Join OpenTable

To quote the late Tom Petty, “The waiting is the hardest part.” So don’t. Now you can use OpenTable to reserve seats at your favorite Southern Proper Hospitality restaurants including The Big Ketch Saltwater Grill, Smokebelly BBQ, Gypsy Kitchen, The Southern Gentleman, Beni’s Cubano, Milton’s Cuisine & Cocktails and Tin Lizzy’s Cantina. Guests can quickly and easily reserve a table online and avoid using precious time waiting for seats during peak business hours. Whether you’re looking ahead or time-strapped and checking last minute for seats, making online reservations eases any hesitations about heading out, wait-time unknown.  And, the process couldn’t be easier. Just visit the restaurant’s website and click on “reservations” to check your preferred date and time. The convenient, stress-free process is the most direct route to skipping the wait and sitting right down to dining and drinks at your favorite Southern Proper Hospitality restaurant. Yes, now time is on your side…but that’s another song for another day.

On Your Mark. Get Set. Treat Yourself Giveaway Arrives at Cumberland Mall and Perimeter Mall

Awesome! Gift cards graced your holidays, and post-holiday sales are in full force. Put cards to work right away at Cumberland Mall and Perimeter Mall’s Treat Yourself Giveaway for the chance to win more gift cards. Here’s how: through Jan. 31, spend your gift cards to receive a chance to win one of 50 gift cards to some of the most popular stores at each mall. Shoppers at Cumberland Mall can win $50 gift cards to Buffalo Wild Wings, The Children’s Place, M.A.C., Carlo’s Bake Shop or Van’s, while Perimeter Mall shoppers may win $50 cards for Maggiano’s Little Italy, Lush, Apple Store, Monica & Andy or Zara. Drop used gift cards (along with contact info) in secure lock boxes throughout each mall to be registered for the chance to turn spent cards into more to spend. Fifty gift card winners will be chosen during the first week of February and notified via email.

Ring in a Stylish New Year at Atlanta Restaurants

The holidays have been fun, but yikes! They’re not done! Now, you’re staring at the calendar (the one received as a gift), realizing New Year’s Eve is almost here and your plans are still up in the air. Rein it in, focus and circle around to our blog to see which Atlanta restaurants are planning parties, specials and popping open the Champagne on New Year’s Eve. After that, it’s just a matter of calling or clicking links to secure a spot at the table or party. Happy New Year and all the best in 2018.

#Foodgram

Born and raised in Basque country and now based in Seattle, trained pastry chef and blogger Aran Goyoaga straddles both worlds as she tells visual stories at @cannellevanille and shares musings and recipes on her Cannelle et Vanille website. The multi-talented Goyoaga combines artistry, informal elegance and gluten-free cooking in her cookbook, “Small Plates and Sweet Treats.” Visual learners will love “The Cook’s Remedy” instructional video series. Basque bases and basics covered for you.

What’s New on Pinterest: Seasonal Spirits

Winter cold spells deserve strong, fiery Seasonal Spirits to warm those innards, fingers and toes. Bourbon-aters snuggle up to new concoctions using their trusty elixir -- hot bourbon maple apple cider, winter bourbon smash hinting of raspberries, The Nor’easter cocktail storming in with maple syrup and lime and the Hibernating Honey Bear. National Sangria Day celebrants can pour festive winter sangria with pomegranate and clementines, Honeycrisp apple sangria and cranberry or rosemary white Christmas sangria. Bubbly prosecco punch sparkles on New Year’s Eve and bowl game party tables. Hot chocolates, peppermint white Christmas and root beer floats sound like kiddie drinks, but these high-proof versions require 21 and over ID.

Ray’s Guests Score Wine-to-Food Conversion, Provide almost 8K Meals for NFL KickHunger Campaign

Earlier this fall, Ray's Restaurants instigated a game plan to help the NFL Kick Hunger campaign provide meals to families in need. For each case of Orin Swift wines sold at Ray’s in the City, Ray’s on the River and Ray’s at Killer Creek, the NFL donated 30 meals to a local food bank. Ray’s offered the wines at special prices, adding more incentive to touch down at Ray’s and intercept a glass or bottle of the fine California wine. The successful promo helped provide 7,740 meals for Atlanta’s hungry, giving Ray’s the highest sales in the area for the NFL Kick Hunger promotion.

Terminus City BBQ Posts Last Two 2017 Saturday Pop-Ups at ASW Distillery, Dec. 23 and Dec. 30

Hit “repeat event” on your smartphone calendar to loop in this year’s remaining two Terminus City BBQ Pop-Up Saturday events at ASW Distillery. On Saturday, Dec. 23 and 30, chef Kevin Gillespie’s team turns out their awesome pulled pork barbecue sandwiches starting at 11:30 a.m., continuing until the ‘cue’s all gone. The pop-up menu covers the bases (and absorbs those smooth ASW tastings) with a chopped whole hog BBQ sandwich on a buttered and toasted bun topped with Shaker slaw ($8), a sandwich combo adding a choice of side for $12, grilled pimento cheese sandwich ($6), side of Shaker slaw or potato salad (eight ounces, $5), or a pound of chopped whole hog barbecue ($19). Spirits, friends, forks and chopped pork. Saturday downtime tastes divine.

Latch onto Founders Canadian Breakfast Stout during Special December Release at Taco Mac

Founders Brewing Company’s Canadian Breakfast Stout moves breakfast-ish essences of coffee and maple syrup (and a decadent bit of chocolate) off morning tables and into a highly sought-after beer that is such a special release, it was last bottled in 2011. When loyal petitioners insisted on a Canadian Breakfast Stout (CBS) comeback, Founders obliged, employing a key component in the CBS brewing process -- aging their famous Kentucky Breakfast Stout in barrels that first held maple syrup before being upcycled to bourbon barrels. Savor December’s limited-release stout at Taco Mac while supplies last. Note that this year, Taco Mac has the only U.S. release of this beer, AND its location in The Prado has an extra-large stash. What a hoppy coup! Taco Mac reigns undoubtedly, stout-ably as our area’s beer nerd nirvana.

Hey Santa, Where Can We Go for Christmas Eve Dinner?

Funny you should ask. The jolly elf stays in the know by reading our blog and you can, too. See which Atlanta restaurants are open Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Remember to make reservations then mark that “to do,” “Done!” Cheers!

Appetizing Aperture: Bulla Gastrobar's Sangria

Since National Sangria Day falls on Dec. 20, five days shy of Christmas, should we call it Santa-gria Day? Regardless, Bulla Gastrobar in Midtown is the place to land to raise a glass of crimson-hued sangria crafted of red wine decked out with brandy, triple sec, Sprite and chopped orange for a healthy vitamin C boost ($7 glass/$24 pitcher). Those dreaming of snow (or white sand beaches) may opt for Sangria Blanca ($8 glass/$29 pitcher) or Sangria de Cerveza ($7 glass/$24 pitcher). Cerveza? Isn’t that beer? Right you are. Don't miss this unique take on Dec. 20 at Bulla Gastrobar.

#QuackGivesBack as Duck Donuts Buckhead Donates to CURE Childhood Cancer through Dec. 23

Every bite of a dreamy donut from Duck Donuts Buckhead tastes a bit sweeter this month. Through Dec. 23, Duck Donuts Buckhead will donate a portion of its sales to CURE Childhood Cancer. Share several of the “Duckzillion” combinations of made-to-order donuts, along with that natural donut cohort, fresh-brewed 100 percent Arabica coffee. Cave to craves for the OBX, one of Duck Donut’s signature donut breakfast sandwiches or a donut sundae! Let life’s small, simple pleasures take big steps toward curing childhood cancer. CURE concentrates entirely on children’s cancer, funding some of the best and brightest scientists in the field of pediatric cancer. The nonprofit organization also addresses the critical and urgent needs of patients and their families. Conquer cancer. Duck into Duck Donuts Buckhead in the Tuxedo Festival shopping center (3655 Roswell Road NE, Unit 210); open daily from 6 a.m.-7 p.m.

Accomplish First 2018 Goal: Make New Year’s Plans

Don’t let the ball drop on solidifying New Year’s Eve dining out and celebration plans. Atlanta’s best restaurants and nightspots make it easy to arrange a night and day worth remembering with New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day events and food and drink specials worth popping open the Champagne. Spaces are limited, reserve your spot today.

The following restaurants are open for both New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day, celebrating with special menus, events and bountiful brunch options:

5Church Atlanta has a three-course New Year’s Eve dinner with a half bottle of Champagne for a party of two and a full bottle of Champagne for a party of four. Seatings are from 5 to 5:45 p.m. ($75), 6 to 6:45 p.m. ($80) and 7 to 7:45 p.m. ($90). Reservations after 8 p.m. are $120 per person. At 10 p.m., the restaurant hosts a New Year’s Eve party featuring a buffet menu, open bar, live DJ, live countdown to the ball drop and Champagne toast at midnight. General admission tickets are $80 and can be purchased here. Admission to the party is also available to New Year’s Eve diners with a $50 upgrade. On New Year’s Day, 5Church serves its regular brunch menu from 11 a.m.to 4 p.m. and dinner starting at 5:30 p.m. 404-400-3669; 5churchatlanta.com.

Atkins Park Restaurant & Bar in Virginia-Highland is serving up a special New Year’s Eve dinner and countdown party on Dec. 31. On Jan. 1, enjoy the full brunch menu along with Atkins Park’s traditional Southern New Year’s Day offering of braised pork, hoppin’ John rice, collard greens and cornbread. 404-876-7249; atkinspark.com.

Chicken and the Egg is serving a New Year’s Eve menu starting at 5 p.m. on Dec. 31. The restaurant is also open for brunch on Jan. 1 from 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. 678-388-8813; chickandtheegg.com.

Food 101 in Sandy Springs is open for brunch from 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. on New Year’s Eve, with an à la carte Sunday supper-style dinner from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. Choose from entrées such as smoked prime rib and butter poached lobster tails alongside family-style sides like truffle and crab creamed corn and Champagne-braised Brussels sprouts. Food 101 is also serving its regular brunch menu on New Year’s Day from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. 404-497-9700; food101atl.com.

The original Midtown location of HOBNOB Neighborhood Tavern switches from its regular menu to an all-you-can-eat pizza party at 9 p.m. on New Year’s Eve. The event also offers endless beer and Champagne, live music from James Patrick Morgan, a balloon drop and party favors. Tickets are available here. 404-968-2288. HOBNOB’s Brookhaven outpost is offering a steak and lobster dinner special in addition to its regular menu, as well as special Champagne and bourbon flights. 404-464-8971. Both locations are open for brunch on New Year’s Day starting at 10:30 a.m.

hobnobatlanta.com.

Special prix fixe menus are on tap at Marlow’s Tavern on Dec. 31, then select locations are serving a New Year’s Day brunch to welcome in the New Year. Locations serving brunch include Alpharetta, Brookhaven, Dunwoody, East Cobb, Midtown, Sandy Springs and Vinings. All Marlow’s Tavern locations are open on Jan. 1 with regular hours. Call the neighborhood taverns for additional details. marlowstavern.com.

Ray’s Restaurants (Ray’s on the River, Ray's at Killer Creek and Ray's in the City) are each offering a three-course, prix fixe New Year’s Eve dinner menu for $85 from 4 to 11 p.m. at Ray’s in the City and 5 to 11 p.m. at Ray’s on the River and Ray’s at Killer Creek. À la carte dinner menus are also available at Ray’s on the River and Ray’s at Killer Creek. During the day on Dec. 31, Ray’s in the City is also serving its regular lunch menu from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., while Ray’s on the River and Ray’s at Killer Creek are offering New Year’s Eve brunch buffets from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. ($45.95 per adult and $22.95 per child at Ray’s on the River; $42.95 per adult and $21.95 per child at Ray’s at Killer Creek.) All three restaurants are open regular hours for lunch and dinner on Jan. 1. raysrestaurants.com.

In addition, ring in 2018 in grand style with a New Year’s Eve Great Gatsby Gala at Ray’s on the River. Wear “Great Gatsby” attire at this extravaganza featuring an open bar, heavy hors d’oeuvres, a live five-piece band, a Champagne toast and a midnight balloon drop. The party runs from 9:30 p.m. to 1 a.m. Price is $150 per person, plus tax and gratuity. Reservations are required, and tickets are available here. 770-955-1187; raysrestaurants.com/raysontheriver.

The following restaurants are hosting New Year’s Eve festivities only; closed on Jan. 1st:

Guests who enjoy American Cut’s regular dinner menu on Dec. 31 are invited to upgrade to an after-dinner New Year’s Eve party downstairs at The Cut Bar from 9 p.m. to midnight for $40 per person. The post-dinner party features an open bar, live entertainment, live ball drop and Champagne toast at midnight. 770-415-9766; americancutsteakhouse.com/nye2018atl. Meanwhile, The Regent Cocktail Club, American Cut’s rooftop bar, is hosting an exclusive New Year’s event from 8 p.m. to 2 a.m. with passed hors d’oeuvres, live entertainment, live ball drop and Champagne toast at midnight. Tickets are $80 in advance and $100 at the door. Availability is limited, so reserve today. 770-415-9961; regentcocktailclub.com.

Chef Gerry Klaskala and the team at Aria, which is typically closed on Sunday nights, are offering a four-course prix fixe New Year’s Eve menu for $95 per person. Drinks, tax and gratuity not included. Reserve a table here. 404-233-7673; aria-atl.com.

The Blind Pig Parlour Bar offers an intimate and sophisticated alternative to massive New Year’s Eve parties. The 1920s-inspired speakeasy hosts a private black-tie event with open bar, party favors, hors d’oeuvres, desserts, live music by Fukushima Tuna and a Champagne toast at midnight. Tickets are $95 per person and are available here. 678-705-7697; theblindpigparlourbar.com.

Bulla Gastrobar is an appropriately festive spot for ushering in the New Year, with its laid-back, communal atmosphere and first-class menu of innovative tapas and Spanish dishes.  The restaurant is staying open until midnight and is offering a complimentary Champagne toast, as well as hats and noisemakers for the last seating of the evening. 404-900-6926; bullagastrobar.com.

Celebrate on Dec. 31 at Drift Fish House & Oyster Bar and Seed Kitchen & Bar with three-course prix fixe dinners for $75, plus tax and gratuity. Menu selections include roasted guinea hen and braised veal osso buco at Seed and Atlantic grouper or deviled crab cakes at Drift. Optional wine pairings are $25. 770-635-7641; driftoysterbar.com. 678-214-6888; eatatseed.com.

Gypsy Kitchen is serving a special five-course prix fixe menu beginning at 5 p.m. Selections include a family-style serving of chicken croquetas and patatas bravas, as well as za’atar-spiced scallops, poached halibut, duck breast and seafood paella fried rice. Guests can opt for a wine pairing with each course for an additional $45. There will also be live music, a balloon drop and a Champagne toast at midnight. Cost is $65 per person from 5 to 8:30 p.m.; $75 from 8:45 to 10:30 p.m. 404-939-9840; gk-atl.com.

Ring in the New Year at Johnny’s Hideaway for a one-of-a-kind celebration for $50 per person. The price includes reserved seats and party favors at midnight. Reserve by phone. 404-233-8026; johnnyshideaway.com.

In historic Crabapple, Milton’s Cuisine and Cocktails is celebrating with live music and a three-course menu for $65 from 5 – 9 p.m. Selections include baked oysters casino, potato chips & caviar, bacon wrapped wagyu sirloin and roasted duck breast. 770-817-0161; miltonscuisine.com.

The Southern Gentleman is offering a five-course prix fixe menu featuring such dishes as seafood bisque with lobster beignet; fried oyster with balsamic collard greens; center-cut bone-in grilled pork chop, 8 oz. filet, gunpowder red snapper and roasted spaghetti squash. Guests will also enjoy party favors, a DJ, a balloon drop and Champagne toast. Reservations are $80 for seatings from 5 to 8:15 p.m.; $90 for 8:30 to 10 p.m. Unique wine pairings with each course are available for an additional $45. 404-939-9845; thesoutherngentlemanatl.com.

The following restaurants are also open and welcoming guests on New Year’s Eve:

Both locations of The Big Ketch are offering their regular menus along with live music. Buckhead: 404-474-9508. Roswell: 770-993-5749. thebigketch.com.

The Federal is hosting its usual brunch and dinner menus on New Year’s Eve, showcasing such dishes as chicken & waffles, Alaskan king salmon, dry-aged Kansas City strip and the popular Federal burger, along with a few surprises. The last dinner seating is at 11 p.m., and the bar is open until 1 a.m. 404-343-3857; thefederalatl.com. Closed New Year’s Day.

Normally closed on Sunday, Gunshow is open from 5 to 9 p.m. on New Year’s Eve, offering its regular service (with chefs rotating selections tableside) and a properly festive menu. 404-380-1886; gunshowatl.com. Closed Jan. 1.

Weary travelers passing through Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport during the holiday weekend can count on Hojeij Branded Foods favorites on the concourse, such as Cat Cora's Kitchen, Gordon Biersch and Varasano’s. hbfairports.com.

Gamechanger at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium is the place to eat a lineup of tasty bites from fan favorite Kevin Gillespie while watching the Atlanta Falcons take on the Carolina Panthers on Dec. 31 or cheering on the Peach Bowl New Year’s Day. redbeardrestaurants.com/gamechanger.

Ormsby’s, West Midtown’s good-time gathering place, will be open during regular hours on New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day. Enjoy craft beer and fresh pub fare while you play a round of bocce ball with friends. 404-968-2033; ormsbysatlanta.com.

Kevin Gillespie’s Revival is open its usual Sunday hours on New Year’s Eve, serving brunch from 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. and three-course family-style dinner and à la carte menus of traditional Southern favorites from 5 to 9 p.m. 470-225-6770; revivaldecatur.com. Closed Jan. 1.

Smokebelly BBQ is open regular hours with chef specials on New Year’s Eve. The restaurant is also serving New Year’s Day brunch, making it the perfect spot to enjoy chef-crafted barbecue while watching the college bowl games. 404-848-9100; smokebellybbq.com.

Storico Fresco Alimentari e Ristorante is open for dinner from 5:30 to 10 p.m. on New Year’s Eve, serving its regular menu and several surprises. 404-500-2181; storicofresco.com. Closed New Year’s Day.

With over 100 beers on draft, the Southeast’s Original Buffalo wings and 50+ HD TVs for enjoying sporting events, Taco Mac is a prime destination for a pre-game warm up on Dec. 31 and watching all the football action on New Year’s Day. All locations are open both days. tacomac.com.

All Atlanta-area locations of Tin Lizzy's Cantina are open regular hours, with the Buckhead, Grant Park, Mall of Georgia, Midtown, Kennesaw and Perimeter locations open until midnight as usual. The downtown, East Cobb and Sugarloaf Parkway locations are open until 11 p.m. All locations open New Year’s Day. tinlizzyscantina.com.

Typically closed on Sunday, Umi is open on Dec. 31, serving its menu of sushi, sashimi, nigiri and other Japanese favorites. 404-841-0040; umiatlanta.com. Himitsu, Umi’s exclusive Japanese cocktail lounge, is also open. puraibeto.com/himitsu. Both are closed Jan. 1.

Those looking to ring in the New Year with sweets can pick up tasty treats at all three locations of Henri’s Bakery & Café on Dec. 30. The Atlanta institution will be closed on New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day. henrisbakery.com.  

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