Gather ‘Round for Halloween Drools and Goblins

Halloween trick or treating falls on Monday this year – leaving the weekend wide open for grown-up ghouls and ghosts to revel in some spirited festivities at Atlanta restaurants and bars. Read on…if you dare.

Midtown
Tin Lizzy’s Cantina in Midtown, at 1136 Crescent Avenue, is one of the 10 establishments pouring spirited treats along the route of the seventh annual Midtown Halloween Block Party, organized by Atlanta Bar Tours, on Friday, October 28. Wristband ticket entitles wearers to entry to 10 bars, clubs and restaurants with exclusive food and drink specials. Tin Lizzy’s Midtown location is offering $3 cocktails, $2 beers and $1 shot specials. Wear a costume to show off your ghoulish figure. Find more info and buy tickets ($24.99 each) on Xorbia for this roaming Halloween party open to ages 21 and over.

With its arresting neo-Victorian décor and chef-driven modern American menu, 5Church Atlanta is the perfect spot for a Halloween weekend party on Saturday, October 29 starting at 10 p.m. A DJ keeps the joint jumping while guests dressed to impress vie for the costume contest’s $500 prize. Free admission.

All Halloween weekend (Friday through Monday), HOBNOBoffers food and drink specials including the “Mold and Mildew” appetizer (duck nachos with corn tortillas, date and fig jam, Havarti cheese and tomato pesto, $12), the “Murderous Meatloaf” entrée (with basil mashers, tomato and red pepper relish and bloody mary sauce, $14), a pumpkin spice cheesecake dessert ($6) and pumpkin ale beer specials. A “Night of the Drinking Dead” Halloween party, 7 p.m. Sunday, October 30, comes alive with a DJ and a costume contest with fun prizes.


Virginia-Highland
Atkins Park Restaurant & Bar in Virginia-Highland unmasks a full lineup of events. On Wednesday, October 26, any child in costume at dinner receives a free kids’ meal. Thursday, October 27 cuts in with the annual pumpkin carving contest and scary movies playing on TVs throughout the bar. Thrills and chills continue as each pumpkin carver will be treated to a complimentary Pumking beer from Southern Tier Brewing, and the staff will tap a special cellared keg of Southern Tier’s Warlock imperial stout. Registration starts at 9 p.m., festivities begin at 10 p.m. Arrive early, pumpkin supply is limited. On Saturday, October 29, DJ Lion hosts and performs at Atkins Park’s annual Halloween party and welcomes theHalloween in the Highlands pub crawl with a complimentary shot for participants.

On Thursday, Oct. 27, Hand in Hand hosts a Halloween pumpkin carving party beginning at 8 p.m. with KBS from Founders Brewing Co. on tap. On Saturday, the Virginia-Highland area’s quintessential neighborhood tavern and restaurant greets the Halloween in the Highlands pub crawl with a complimentary shot for participants.


Buckhead/Sandy Springs
Wander over to Gypsy Kitchen on Saturday, October 29, for a “Day of the Dead”-themed bash featuring shocking drink specials (including $5 El Jimador pumpkin spice margaritas), a live DJ and an out-of-this-world costume contest. Starts at 9 p.m., no cover charge.

Miss out on the annual Halloween party at Johnny’s Hideaway, which takes place on Thursday, October 27? Scary thought! Buckhead’s most happening haunt unearths a costume party with $500 in prizes.
 
The Southern Gentleman invites you to come dressed as your favorite bloodsucker for its vampire costume contest on Saturday, October 29. Rub elbows with Draculas or “Twilight” characters while enjoying complimentary blood punch, grab bags and screenings of “The Rocky Horror Picture Show” from 5-9 p.m. and “Interview with the Vampire” at 9 p.m.

Multiple Locations
Marlow’s Tavern is serving Gourd Vibrations, a devilishly delicious chocolate pumpkin porter from Gate City Brewing, as a perfect complement to its menu of classic sandwiches, salads, burgers and entrées. Available at Marlow’s Avalon, East Cobb, Northlake, Roswell, Sandy Plains, Woodstock and Vinings locations.

From Saturday, October 29 through Monday, October 31, ghouls and goblins 12 and under who show up in costume atWilly's Mexicana Grill will receive a free kids’ combo with each adult entrée purchase. Valid for one per child per adult entrée. This offer is good at all locations except the airport. 

Party Time in Roswell as Marlow’s Tavern Marks Year One October 27

Let’s get this party started – and perhaps you’ll win a prize. Marlow’s Tavern in Roswell is lauding its first year with a day-long anniversary party on Thursday, October 27. Gate City Brewery takes over the taps to pull $1 drafts from the moment doors open at 11:30 a.m. until 11 p.m. closing time – a winning combo with Marlow’s party-hearty complimentary appetizers and desserts starting at 6 p.m. Leave the presents at home but enter to win one of two prizes Marlow’s will be giving away that day: a grand prize of dinner at Marlow’s once a week, every week for a year or a private beer dinner for 20 at Gate City Brewery, catered by Marlow’s Tavern.

Fill Up on Tin Lizzy’s FlexMex Platos – Great Deal, Limited Time

Turkey time is coming, but now’s the time to hit up Tin Lizzy’s Cantina for FlexMex platos …because these three platos are only around for a limited engagement. Choose grilled skirt steak with creamy chimichurri sauce ($12.99), grilled mahi mahi topped with jalapeño pineapple salsa ($13.29) or boneless pork chop with house-made mole sauce ($12.99). Seasoned rice, black beans and fried sweet plantains accompany all three of these affable amigos. Toast your new FlexMex friends with Tin Lizzy’s blood orange margarita, a colorful, potent blend of Casa Nobles Organic tequila and Napa blood orange juice ($9.50). Blood orange. Sounds spooky, tastes delish.

5Church News Flash: Jamie Lynch of 5Church is Bravo “Top Chef” Charleston Contestant – And He’s Added New Dishes to Dinner Menu

Bravo Media’s Emmy- and James Beard Award-winning “Top Chef” heads to Charleston, South Carolina, for the upcoming season, and 5Church executive chef and partner Jamie Lynch is on board. Lynch battles it out in the kitchen along with eight esteemed chefs from across the country and eight returning chefs – chefs from past seasons who are seeking redemption for not bringing home the “Top Chef” bacon the first time. Lynch oversees operations at all three 5Church locations – Charleston, Charlotte and Atlanta – and he’s splitting his time between Charleston and Atlanta during the competition. Season 14’s supersized premiere airs Thursday, December 1 at 10 p.m. ET. For a sneak peek, visit online.

Amid all of the “Top Chef” excitement, Lynch has created several irresistible new dishes to top off the dinner menu at 5Church Atlanta. Could chicken adobo pay homage to the Charleston “Top Chef” competition with crushed Charleston gold rice, shaved broccoli, and lemon ash ($24)? Fresh farfalle beckons veggie lovers to savor corn, shiitake mushrooms, broccoli florets and ricotta salatta ($24) – and add grilled chicken for $5. Treasure the flavor of PEI mussels with toasted garlic, chorizo, heirloom tomatoes, vermouth and grilled bread to soak up those intoxicating juices ($13). Dine inside or go all out for fall by dining out on the street level or rooftop patios overlooking Peachtree Street in Midtown.

Ray’s at Killer Creek and Rombauer Vineyards Unite for October 26 Wine Dinner

Napa Valley’s Rombauer Vineyards stretches its vines to Alpharetta and Ray’s at Killer Creek for a Rombauer Wine Dinner on Wednesday, October 26. Executive chef Mike Fuller is orchestrating a five-course dinner paired with a selection of wines from the award-winning, family owned vineyard. The evening begins with an amuse-bouche of grapes rolled in pecans and Stilton blue cheese and a toast of 2012 Frank Family Brut rosé. First course follows with cast-iron roasted Brunswick shrimp served with chicory salad, pickled Gala apples and spiced pecan vinaigrette paired with 2015 Rombauer Napa Valley sauvignon blanc. Next comes fennel and ginger-cured wild salmon with rice paper crisp, toasted sesame and arugula joined by 2015 Rombauer Carneros chardonnay. Third course brings paper-thin duck prosciutto with brûlée fig, preserved lemon custard and grilled walnut raisin bread alongside 2014 Rombauer zinfandel followed by pumpkin seed-crusted Colorado lamb rack with cauliflower grits, sundried cranberry, sunchoke chips and barrel-aged cider gastrique paired with 2008 Napa Valley Le Meilleur du Chai, Bordeaux blend. Dessert of sweet potato-maple doughnuts and sea salt-caramel gelato with 2015 Joy Late Harvest chardonnay round out the evening. Rombauer Vineyards’ Southeast sales manager Jeff Papa will be in attendance to discuss pairings and answer questions. Cost is $95 per person (plus tax and gratuity); call 770-649-0064 for reservations. Fun foodie trivia: Rombauer Vineyards founder Koerner Rombauer’s great aunt Irma Rombauer was the original author of “Joy of Cooking,” which is widely considered the greatest teaching cookbook ever written. For the last 80 years, the family has continued to update the book’s recipes and reference materials to reflect current culinary trends.

#Foodgram: Cooksmarts

To live simpler, happier and healthier in the kitchen – that’s what home cooks seek, and @cooksmarts is passionate about helping. Feast eyes on images of sautéed garlicky shrimp, stuffed vegetarian sweet potatoes, chicken miso ramen with soft-boiled egg, Japanese beef curry and a delicious Niçoise salad, to name a few. Then click over to cooksmarts.com to take control of your kitchen and make these at home with a meal plan subscription service boasting grocery lists, how-to videos, prep-ahead advice, diet options and more.

What’s New on Pinterest: Pumpkin Lovin'

Squash ideas of other flavors – it’s time for Pumpkin Lovin', and we’ve carved out a Pinterest board with pumpkin recipes for every meal. Breakfast calls for pumpkin French toast casserole or maple-glazed pumpkin Poptarts. At lunchtime, cozy up to a selection of pumpkin soups, and for dinner, fork into pumpkin, spinach and walnut spaghetti or penne pasta with mild Italian sausage in a creamy pumpkin-sage sauce. Dessert? Slice into no-bake pumpkin cheesecake, take a bite out of pumpkin spice truffles or cut the calories with low-fat pumpkin mousse pie.

Appetizing Aperture: Marlow's Banh Mi Chicken Wrap

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and all month long, Marlow’s Tavern locations in Georgia are turning on the pink with a special Banh Mi Chicken Wrap filled with grilled or fried soy-glazed chicken, Napa cabbage, pickled veggies, fresh cilantro and firecracker sauce -- all bundled in a pink tortilla. A portion of proceeds from each wrap sold benefits Susan G. Komen Greater Atlanta.

Willy’s Now Open and Rolling Burritos in Columbus

Passing through Columbus, Georgia and burgers or nuggets just won’t do? You’re in luck. Set the GPS for the newest Willy’s Mexicana Grill location at 5279 Whittlesey Boulevard in Columbus Park Crossing. Opened October 17, this new outpost brings its burritos, tacos, quesadillas, salads and more – all made with choice ingredients like adobe and Sinaloa chicken or tofu, chipotle pork, cilantro-garlic steak, homemade guac and pico de gallo and fresh veggies -- to west Georgia. And don’t forget the cheese dip!

Get into the Halloween Spirit at these Atlanta Restaur”Haunts”

For more information:

 Emily Connolly or Morgan Lanier

Melissa Libby & Associates

404-816-3068

emilyc@melissalibbypr.com

morgan@melissalibbypr.com

GET INTO THE HALLOWEEN SPIRIT AT THESE ATLANTA RESTAUR”HAUNTS”

Spooky Specials and Creepy Contests Highlight October Offerings

ATLANTA (Oct. 19, 2016) – Atlanta’s most bewitching bars and restaurants are getting into the Halloween spirit. Whether you’re looking for a creepy costume contest, frightfully good food or some spellbinding seasonal drink specials, these horrifying hotspots are serving up plenty of tempting treats.

Midtown/Virginia-Highland

With its arresting neo-Victorian décor and chef-driven modern American menu, 5Church Atlanta is the perfect spot for a Halloween weekend party. Enjoy plenty of both on Saturday, Oct. 29 starting at 10 p.m. as 5Church hosts a costume contest with a $500 prize. DJ Black Box Disco will keep the joint jumping. Admission and valet parking are free. 404-400-3669; 5churchatlanta.com.

Atkins Park Restaurant and Bar in Virginia-Highland offers a full lineup of events. On Wednesday, Oct. 26, any child in costume at dinner receives a free kids’ meal. Thursday, Oct. 27 brings the annual pumpkin carving contest, with scary movies playing on TVs throughout the bar. As if that weren’t chilling enough, each participant receives a complimentary Pumking beer from Southern Tier Brewing, and the staff will tap a special cellared keg of Southern Tier’s Warlock imperial stout. Registration starts at 9 p.m. with festivities beginning at 10 p.m. Pumpkins are limited, so make sure you arrive early. On Saturday, Oct. 29, DJ Lion hosts and performs at Atkins Park’s annual Halloween party and welcomes the Halloween in the Highlands pub crawl with a complimentary shot for each crawler. Halloween night on Oct. 31 brings a costume contest with a $500 cash prize. 404-876-7249;atkinspark.com.

On Thursday, Oct. 27, Hand in Hand hosts a Halloween pumpkin carving party beginning at 8 p.m. with KBS from Founders Brewing Co. on tap. On Saturday, the Virginia-Highland area’s quintessential neighborhood tavern and restaurant greets the Halloween in the Highlands pub crawl with a complimentary shot for participants. 404-872-1001; thehandinhand.com.

All Halloween weekend (Friday through Monday), HOBNOB offers food and drink specials including the “Mold and Mildew” appetizer (duck nachos with corn tortillas, date and fig jam, Havarti cheese and tomato pesto, $12), the “Murderous Meatloaf” entrée (with basil mashers, tomato and red pepper relish and Bloody Mary sauce, $14), a pumpkin spice cheesecake dessert ($6) and pumpkin ale beer specials. There’s also a “Night of the Drinking Dead” Halloween party on Sunday, Oct. 30 with a live DJ and a costume contest with fun prizes. Event starts at 7 p.m. 404-968-2288; hobnobatlanta.com.

Buckhead/Sandy Springs

Wander over to Gypsy Kitchen on Saturday, Oct. 29, for a free “Day of the Dead”-themed bash featuring shocking drink specials (including $5 El Jimador pumpkin spice margaritas), a live DJ and an out-of-this-world costume contest. Starts at 9 p.m. 404-939-9840; gypsykitchenatl.com.

There’s nothing scarier than missing out on the annual Halloween party at Johnny’s Hideaway, which takes place on Thursday, Oct. 27. Buckhead’s favorite happening haunt will once again feature a costume party with $500 in prizes. 404-233-8026; johnnyshideaway.com.

The Southern Gentleman invites you to come dressed as your favorite bloodsucker for its vampire costume contest on Saturday, Oct. 29. Rub elbows with Draculas or “Twilight” characters while enjoying complimentary blood punch, grab bags and screenings of “The Rocky Horror Picture Show” from 5-9 p.m. and “Interview With the Vampire” at 9 p.m. 404-939-9845; thesoutherngentlemanatl.com.

Multiple Locations

Marlow’s Tavern is serving Gourd Vibrations, a devilishly delicious chocolate pumpkin porter from Gate City Brewing, as a perfect complement to its menu of classic sandwiches, salads, burgers and entrées. Available at Marlow’s Avalon, East Cobb, Northlake, Roswell, Sandy Plains, Woodstock and Vinings locations. Availability is limited, so call your local tavern for more information.marlowstavern.com.

Bring your little ghouls and boys to Willy's Mexicana Grill from Saturday, Oct. 29 through Monday, Oct. 31 for a special Halloween treat. Kids 12 and under who show up in costume will receive a free kids’ combo with each adult entrée purchase. Valid for one per child per adult entrée. This offer is good at all locations except the airport. willys.com.

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Book Holiday Parties Now at 5Church, American Cut, Ray’s Restaurants and More

Holiday parties begin with The Dish. Surely you’ve noticed…the holiday bling, party fashions and decorations emerging in stores and jostling for position amid tailgate gear and Halloween candies. Take the hint and shop for holiday party venues -- we’ve already curated a list for you. Procrastinating only adds stress as your preferred spots will be booked…by someone else. Conveniently, all of these venues accept plastic -- accumulate points and put them to good use in the new year. 5Church Atlanta 5Church Atlanta sets the scene for swanky holiday parties at Peachtree and 14th streets in Midtown, beginning with the moment guests step out of their cars to complimentary valet parking. Cutting-edge design and sophisticated private and semi-private settings welcome intimate dinners or all-out galas for 250 guests or more, and the rooftop patio accessorizes sparkly attire with the dazzling lights of Peachtree Street. Plush banquette seating hugs the walls around The UFO Room, a private dining area set back from the main dining room. Large-scale artwork lends a dramatic air. The Buffalo Room opens off the UFO Room, offering generous space in its own right (and a conversation-inviting central tree sculpture) or a nice flow for large parties. Get an idea of 5Church hors d’oeuvre and menu packages here, including multi-course menus such as the Saucier ($45 per guest), the Sous Chef ($57 per guest), the Chef de Cuisine ($65 per guest) and the Executive Chef ($75 per guest). Email Miranda Miranda,sales@5churchatlanta.com or call 404-400-3669 to start the ball rolling. 1197 Peachtree Street, NE. Ray’s Restaurants  Name drop “Ray’s” at the water cooler and listen to the conversation buzz in eager anticipation. Everyone already knows about the award-winning chefs, mouthwatering cuisine and impeccable service at all three Ray’s Restaurants -- Ray’s in the City, Ray’s on the River and Ray’s at Killer Creek. And, to keep the party planner in a jolly mood, each Ray’s Restaurant location boasts a dedicated events manager who cuts stress right out of the picture. In the heart of downtown Atlanta, Ray's in the City welcomes guests into private and semi-private rooms and areas glowing with rich woods and ambient lighting. Consider breakfast or brunch buffets, lunch, pre-selected dinner menus or exciting dinner buffets with stations for stir-fry, pasta, salad, carving or made-to-order sushi. Toast to a full range of bar ideas including mimosa or bloody mary bar add-ons. The Atlantic Room seats up to 50 guests and features a flat screen TV for presentations or slideshows. The flexible, semi-private Chef’s Area dining room seats up to 30 guests for a small dinner party or serves as a cocktail area before a party in the Atlantic room. Host up to 16 guests for an intimate dinner in the Wine Cellar, where three walls of wine surround a large dining table. The Peachtree Room seats 75 guests and presents panoramic views of Peachtree Street. Contact sales and events manager Mandy Hall,mandy@raysrestaurants.com or 404-524-9224. 240 Peachtree Street. Overlooking the Chattahoochee River in Sandy Springs, Ray's on the River can host riverside events “outside” in the Grand Pavilion, a covered, temperature-controlled environment accommodating up to 120 guests seated or 150 guests for cocktails, as well as a band or DJ and a dance floor for rocking or waltzing the night away. Inside the restaurant, the Private Dining Room pleases up to 70 guests for a formal dinner or a cocktail/buffet reception and the River Room seats up to 30 guests in a semi-private dining space. Opt for pre-selected lunch and dinner menus and consider appetizers, platters, hors d’oeuvre, full buffets and chef-attended carving stations to wow guests. Sounds like what you’re looking for? Contact sales and events manager Nisha Khana and associate Corinne Zucallo at nisha@raysrestaurants.com or 770-952-4209. 6700 Powers Ferry Road, Sandy Springs. In Alpharetta, Ray's at Killer Creek encompasses several space options to accommodate up to 70 guests. Twenty-six guests can be seated for dinner in the private Cellar with its warm woods, stone hearth and fireplace. The dividable Wine-Jordan room seats 60 amid towers of fine wines as well as opening into the private outdoor courtyard. Both rooms house 52” flat screen, satellite dish-equipped TVs for presentations or viewings. Take it outside and celebrate in the Creek Room, a covered and heated outdoor patio overlooking Foe’s Killer Creek and the Upper Chattahoochee Natural Forest Preserve, that easily serves up to 70 guests seated family style or formally at long tables or in smaller groupings. Contact Jessica Savant at 770-649-0064 orjessicasavant@raysrestaurants.com. 1700 Mansell Road, Alpharetta. Thinking fabulous fiesta? Red and green as in salsa, guac and margaritas? Look to Ray’s Rio Bravo for a casual and spirited gathering place to host or cater your holiday event. Call 770-612-2829 to find out how Ray’s “Rio Fresh Rio Fun” Tex-Mex can send your party into the jolly “olé” St. Nicholas zone. 6540 Powers Ferry Road, Sandy Springs. Seed Kitchen & Bar and Stem Wine Bar Beyond the Perimeter, Seed Kitchen & Bar and Stem Wine Bar in East Cobb provide lunch, dinner and cocktail party options – and oodles of free parking. At Seed, planners for groups of 15 guests or more can select from prix fixe brunch, lunch and dinner menu options or mix and match from the menus to suit. Gather in a private dining room seating up to 25 guests, a semi-private room for 10-25 guests or on the patio, which accommodates 50 guests for a seated meal, more for a cocktail reception. Download Seed’s Event Planning Guide for more space details and a sample menu. Stem Wine Bar is a mighty vine option, whether for a private lunch event Monday through Saturday or a restaurant buyout reserving the entire space for groups of up to 40 seated or 60 for cocktails. Think about hosting a private wine dinner for a memorable holiday gathering. Learn more in Stem’s Event Planning Guide. For events at Seed Kitchen & Bar or Stem Wine Bar, contact Chris McNeill, general manager, at cmcneill@eatatseed.com or 678-214-6888. 1311 Johnson Ferry Road, Marietta. Drift Fish House & Oyster Bar Taking the office on an ocean cruise might not be practical, but cruising to Drift Fish House & Oyster Bar at The Avenue in East Cobb makes for a deliciously doable venture that will thrill seafarers and landlubbers alike. Seat up to eight guests in the Wine Room, Oyster Bar or at a Chef’s Table. Groups of up to 20 guests can be seated at one table or 28 at multiple tables in the Shiplap Room. Outside, host 26 guests in the covered patio area or up to 50 on the full patio. Follow this link to more information or call 770-635-7641. 4475 Roswell Road, Marietta.

Red Beard Restaurants Red Beard Restaurants -- Gunshow in Glenwood Park and Revival in Decatur – offer private and semi-private rooms to accommodate small and large groups. Anticipating a sizeable crowd? Buy out one of the restaurants! Whatever the size, the expert staff will tailor the details to suit, from customizable menus and bar packages to wines by the glass or bottle, beer, specialty cocktails and more. Both restaurants happily accommodate special requests including vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free and food allergy sensitive needs. Gunshow‘s open kitchen, shared dining room and family style menu lends itself to groups of 50-70, corporate buyouts or a group reservation for 13-24 guests. The menu changes daily, and Gunshow executive chef Joey Ward will select eight savory and two dessert items from that night’s menu for guests to enjoy family style. Individual chefs will visit guest tables with serving platters bearing their creations. Revival’s versatile floor plan can morph from seating lunch for 10, a seated dinner for 25 or a holiday party for 50. Family style menus for groups of 20-50 guests give a choice of soup or salad, entrée, chef-selected trimmings and a dessert. Contact Red Beard Restaurants events manager JR Zincone at JR@redbeardrestaurants.com. Gunshow, 924 Garrett Street; Revival, 129 Church Street, Decatur. American Cut/The Regent Cocktail Club Nostalgic glamour meets modern glitz at American Cut in The Shops Buckhead Atlanta. The new upscale steak restaurant offers three floors of top-notch party options: private dining in the American Cut Bar & Lounge on street level, small and large private dining rooms with seating capacities of 14 and 42 guests within the second floor main dining level, and an airy indoor/outdoor rooftop experience at The Regent Cocktail Club. Enjoy local Atlanta executive chef John Adamson’s bold takes on American classics throughout. For a night “out” on the town, book The Regent Cocktail Club, where starry skies and striking views of Peachtree Street and the Atlanta skyline add drama to selfie shots and a sexy backdrop for an evening of handcrafted cocktails. Mid-century modern cocktail club lounge seating invites conversation, and there’s even space for a jazzy trio or other live entertainment. Guests at American Cut and The Regent Cocktail Club enjoy three hours of complimentary covered and convenient deck parking. Contact Nazy Gavahi at 404-536-5432 or ngavahi@ldvhospitality.com. 3035 Peachtree Road NE, Suite 140. Atkins Park Virginia-Highland Host the holiday shindig in Atlanta’s oldest continuously licensed tavern. Lively Atkins Park Restaurant & Bar in Virginia-Highland welcomes guests into an unpretentious environment where an upstairs room accommodates 30 guests for a sit-down dinner or 50 guests for a cocktail reception. Call 404-876-7249 for more information. 794 North Highland Avenue. HOBNOB Neighborhood Tavern HOBNOB Neighborhood Tavern sets a casual environment perfect for large groups desiring to party in Midtown. Enjoy a mouthwatering menu of appetizers, gourmet pizzas, burgers and other favorites in the laid-back dining room, or kick back with a high-gravity craft beer on the heated and covered patio. Want it all? Consider a buyout to use the entire restaurant or patio. To discuss your visions, fees and menus, call 404-968-2288. 1551 Piedmont Avenue, NE. Secreto Southern Kitchen & Bar Those in the Windward Parkway area of Alpharetta won’t have far to go to find a holiday celebration venue. Secreto Southern Kitchen & Bar becomes your private restaurant when your group buys out the entire place. Chef Boyd A. Rose’s amazing not-so-secret menus center around Southern American cuisine made from locally farmed ingredients complemented by a bar program of handcrafted cocktails, beers and wines. Secreto can even help companies and individuals conquer holiday wish lists with a gift card promotion that adds a $20 bonus card for every $100 of gift cards purchased. Email Shelly Ball at shelly@secretokitchen.com or call 770-752-0922 for more details. 6195 Windward Parkway, Suite 102, Alpharetta. Milton’s Cuisine & Cocktails Milton’s Cuisine & Cocktails in historic Crabapple provides a charming setting for your social gathering or corporate event. Milton’s can accommodate parties of eight to 200 guests, and each event can be specially tailored by request. Download the Events and Catering Menu for a taste of what’s in store when hosting an event in the restored areas of the farmhouse including the Breezeway (16 guests), the Milton Room (40 guests), the Mayfield Room (24 guests), the Broadwell Room (12 guests), the Banquet Porch (40 seated), or the Bar (32-50 guests). Contact sales and events manager Jill Hayes, Jill@miltonscuisine.com or 678-431-8753. 800 Mayfield Road, Milton. Bellina Alimentari The Culinary Club, a private and versatile event space at Bellina Alimentari, is the perfect place to host an intimate dinner party with authentic Italian fare, have fun making fresh pasta in a private cooking class followed by dinner, learn about natural Italian wines in a private wine tasting or just enjoy social time together. For larger groups, the entire bar area can be reserved for an elegant cocktail party where guests can savor cheeses, olive oil and fresh bread, Italian and local charcuterie and more. To book your group’s holiday experience, contact Bethany Thompson at 404-330-9933 or email events@bellina-alimentari-com. Ponce City Market, 675 Ponce de Leon Ave., NE, N-131.

The Blind Pig Parlour Bar With Victorian era decor and ambiance, The Blind Pig Parlour Bar provides an intimate and sophisticated environment for dining and drinking for up to 80 guests. The 1920s-inspired Buckhead speakeasy features craft cocktails, small plates and live entertainment -- all in a smoke-free facility -- and is available as an event space any day of the week. Contact sales and events manager April Pitman, april@sphospitality.com or 404-931-1251. 128 East Andrews Drive, NW. Dolce Italian Host your holiday party “la dolce vita” style. Dolce Italian offers private and semi-private rooms to accommodate small and large groups. Seat up to 110 in the mid-century dining room or opt for al fresco dining on the wrap-around, covered outdoor terrace overlooking The Shops Buckhead Atlanta. Executive chef Paolo Dorigato’s handcrafted pastas, bold seafood specialties, Neapolitan-style pizzas and more will leave your guests asking for “amore!” Contact Nazy Gavahi at 404-536-5432 or ngavahi@ldvhospitality.com. 3035 Peachtree Road NE, Suite 201. The Southern Gentleman The Southern Gentleman celebrates the essence of the South, and relaxed, yet polished, entertaining plays a major role. Treat guests to a fresh, modern and locally sourced take on Southern cuisine from executive chef Matthew Ridgway along with handcrafted cocktails. Expansive space accommodates up to 150 guests, and dinner menus begin at $35 per person. Patio parties, group dinners and private, customized bourbon, rye or whiskey tastings are perfectly delightful ideas. Contact Simone Dyson, Simone@sphospitality.com or 404-964-9243. The Shops Buckhead Atlanta, 3035 Peachtree Road, NE, Suite A208. Ormsby’s Located on the Westside under the White Provisions building, Ormsby’s feels like one of the city’s best-kept secrets. But it’s a leading destination for gatherings and celebrations of all sizes and stripes, thanks to a variety of games (shuffleboard, darts, bocce ball, board games and pool) perfect for socializing. With a wide selection of craft beers and a menu of classic and creative gastropub favorites, it’s a casual crowd-pleaser. Contact Leslie Battle,lbattle@ormsbysatlanta.com or 404-968-2033. 1170 Howell Mill Road. Gypsy Kitchen An event at Gypsy Kitchen transports guests to a beautiful, out of the ordinary destination where Spanish cuisine mingles with foods inspired by the spice trade of India, Morocco and other countries. Executive chef Matthew Ridgway and staff can create tasting menus, elaborate spreads or passed appetizers matched by a splendid bar program rich in Old World-style wines, craft cocktails and European beers. Contact Simone Dyson at events@gk-atl.com or call 404-939-9840. The Shops Buckhead Atlanta, 3035 Peachtree Road, NE, Suite A209. 101 Steak 101 Steak in Vinings offers multiple private dining settings to suit the needs of holiday events large or small. The Overlook Room accommodates up to 50 guests, while The Board Room sits 12 and The Tasting Room can seat up to eight guests. Executive chef Joe Ahn’s chef-driven catering menu features menu selections that include family style appetizers and side dishes, salads, entrees and desserts. Custom menus are available upon request. Order for the table using their special Thanksgiving Day group menu this year featuring a holiday entree, sides and desserts. $45 per person, $18 for children. Call 770-805-8855. 3621 Vinings Slope SE, Vinings.

Ham It Up at Hand in Hand Pig Roast

Trot over to Virginia-Highland and Hand in Hand for the neighborhood pub’s fifth annual Pig Roast on Saturday, October 22. Enjoy live music from local band Bluegrass Flash Mob while devouring plates of pulled pork and refreshing peach bourbon lemonades. Party starts at 4 p.m. Hand in Hand is located at 752 North Highland Avenue. 

Inbox Alert: Special Holiday Private Dining Edition of The Dish Coming October 20

As the holiday to-do list starts to take shape, mark dining plans off the list early. The Dish takes the hassle out of Thanksgiving and Christmas dining with a special holiday dining edition chock full of special menus and events, group options, reservation info and much more – all coming to an inbox near you on Thursday, October 20.  

Dock at The Big Ketch Canton Street for Alive in Roswell October 20

Don’t let this last Alive in Roswell of 2016 be the one that got away. Head to the monthly free festival on Thursday, October 20 from 5 to 9 p.m. for live bands, food trucks, games and activities for the kiddos and participation from area boutiques, small businesses and restaurants, including The Big Ketch Canton Street. Alive in Roswell is held concurrently at Historic Canton Street and Historic Roswell Square with free trolley service connecting the two areas.

Taste of Atlanta Takes over Midtown this Weekend

Get primed for this weekend’s Taste of Atlanta. You’ll not want to miss a morsel of the city’s signature culinary fest spreading through Midtown’s Tech Square, October 21-23.  Foodies will enjoy samplings from more than 90 of the Southeast’s most popular restaurants -- including The Big Ketch, HOBNOB, Marlow’s Tavern, Seed Kitchen & Bar and Smokebelly BBQ -- and a full schedule of events such as VIP Grand Tasting Experience options, Barcraft Competition, Big Green Egg Grilling Stage, The Chef’s Table, Family Food Zone, The Kitchen Workshop, silent auction and more. Buy tickets for individual days or in two- or three-day packages and view the full schedule online.

Harvest for a Cure Rakes in Atlanta’s Top Chefs, Vintage Wines, Raffle and More on October 20

A bountiful evening awaits as the Georgia Chapter of the National Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Society hosts Harvest for a Cure on Thursday, October 20 from 6:30-9:30 p.m. at Mason Fine Art. Join chef chair Gerry Klaskala of Aria, 18 of Atlanta’s most talented chefs and pastry chefs and 18 sommeliers and mixologists as they prepare culinary creations to pair with wines from the personal cellars of at least a dozen local wine collectors. Other notable participants include Aria pastry chef Kathryn King and general manager and wine director Andrés Loaiza, chef Derek Dollar of Milton’s Cuisine & Cocktails, chef Matthew Ridgway of Gypsy Kitchen and The Southern Gentleman and mixologist Mercedes O’Brien and pastry chef Billy Cole of Gunshow. Buy admission tickets ($250 each) and raffle tickets ($100 each)online. Reap more details on our Atlanta Dish blog.

Hunter’s Moon Leads Way to Milton’s Harvest and Vine Dinner October 27

What’s a Hunter’s Moon? The first full moon after the Harvest Moon, which is the full moon rising closest to the Autumnal equinox. Swoon over the big and bold Hunter’s Moon on October 16, then follow this astronomical sighting with a gastronomical sighting at Milton’s Cuisine & Cocktails – a Harvest & Vine Dinner featuring the wines of Frank Family Vineyards on Thursday, October 27. The 6:30 p.m. multi-course dinner with wine pairings will be served out on Milton’s banquet porch and middle-tier deck. $90 per person (includes gratuity, excludes tax). We’ll shine more light on the subject as October progresses. Call Milton’s at 770-817-0161 for more information.

Georgia Chapter of National Multiple Sclerosis Society Hosts Harvest for a Cure October 20

Gourmet food from Atlanta’s top chefs? Vintage wines? Luxury-laden raffle? Enjoy a bountiful Harvest for a Cure on Thursday, October 20 from 6:30-9:30 p.m. at Mason Fine Art, all to benefit the Georgia Chapter of the National Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Society and its global MS research projects to stop disease progression, restore function and end MS. Eighteen of Atlanta’s most-talented chefs and pastry chefs and 18 sommeliers and mixologists are collaborating to pair culinary creations with wines from the personal cellars of at least a dozen Atlanta wine collectors for the top-notch evening. Harvest for a Cure chef chair Gerry Klaskala of Ariahas a personal connection to the cause: lifelong friend Mike has struggled with MS since the age of 27. Klaskala is participating in chef mode, along with Aria associates pastry chef Kathryn King and general manager and wine director Andrés Loaiza, chef Matthew Ridgway of Gypsy Kitchen and The Southern Gentleman, chef Derek Dollar of Milton’s Cuisine & Cocktails and pastry chef Billy Cole and mixologist Mercedes O’Brien of Gunshow. Buy admission tickets ($250 each) and raffle tickets ($100 each) online. Learn more about MS at nationalmssociety.org.