[From Morgan at Melissa Libby PR]
BENI’S CUBANO TO OPEN IN EAST COBB THIS MAY
Casual Cuban without the Travel Expense Coming to The Avenue
Casual Cuban without the Travel Expense Coming to The Avenue
ATLANTA– The team behind Tin Lizzy’s Cantina, Gypsy Kitchen and The Big Ketch Saltwater Grill is offering an immersive dining experience in Cuban culture with the opening of Beni’s Cubano at 4475 Roswell Road in The Avenue East Cobb next month. Beni’s Cubano pairs authentic Cuban cuisine with fast and friendly service and is scheduled to land in Marietta in May.
“Beni’s Cubano is our way of exposing guests’ palates to the island of Cuba with authentic dishes and a genuine sense of hospitality. We want our guests to come back not just for the food, but also for the experience,” says executive chef Cesar Velazquez.
Featuring home-style Cuban cooking with a chef’s touch, the cuisine at Beni’s incorporates authentic recipes showcasing the robust, bold flavors of Cuba in every bite. Guests also will be able to sip on traditional cocktails or a Cuban coffee as they would in Havana.
The restaurant space is quaint and inviting, but the atmosphere reflects the festive Cuban culture. Beni’s décor features some traditional elements along with some unexpected surprises. As guests enter Beni’s, they will step back in time to the heydays of Santiago and Havana, captivated by Latin style and sounds both past and present.
“At Beni’s, we want to transport diners to a place that is charming, warm and inviting,” says Velazquez. “Our goal is to give guests the experience of authentic Cuban cuisine and culture so they genuinely feel well-traveled after a meal with us.”
For additional updates on Beni’s Cubano, follow the restaurant on Facebook.
ATLANTA’S BEST RESTAURANTS CATER TO SPRING AND SUMMER CELEBRATIONS
Catering Options Make for a Feast without the Fuss
Catering Options Make for a Feast without the Fuss
ATLANTA– It’s that time of year for weddings, graduations, family reunions and other festive catered affairs, and several of Atlanta’s top restaurant destinations are ready to help make your party the destination with catering menus and packages to fit any budget.
When the occasion calls for a true fiesta:
Jefe's Tacos & Tequila, Brookhaven’s lively neighborhood taco stop, has custom catering options that highlight Jefe’s classic gourmet tacos, specialty dishes, appetizers, soups and salads. For catering orders, call 404-963-6205; jefestacos.com.
With a taco bar buffet ($24.95 per person) or grilled fajita bar buffet ($31.95 per person), Ray’s Rio Bravo Events offers a fresh, festive catering option for groups of 20 or more. Special buffet enhancements include quesadillas, mini burritos and enchiladas. A frozen margarita machine is also available for rent. For more information, call 404-527-6631 or email cityevents@raysrestaurants.com
Check out Tin Lizzy's Cantina for a spicier FlexMex fiesta with a variety of taco fixings, grilled chicken, seasoned pork, cantina salads and margarita mix (sorry, tequila not included). Deliveries require a $100 minimum order; delivery fee applies outside 5-mile radius. Prices exclude taxes and gratuity, and 24-hour notice is appreciated. For more information, email catering@tinlizzyscantina.com. 404-668-8757; tinlizzyscantina.com.
Willy's Mexicana Grill provides cheese dip, guacamole, salsa, chips, burritos and crowd-pleasing catering options like build-your-own taco, fajita or nacho bars. Ten-person minimum on catering orders. For a full list of Tex-Mex flavors, view the menu at willys.com/catering-menu. Order online or call 404-422-7107; willys.com.
When it needs to be finger-lickin’ good:
Smokebelly BBQ, Atlanta’s leading purveyor of chef-crafted barbecue, serves up three tiers of mouthwatering options: “The Baron of BBQ” ($14 per person) with pulled pork and two sides of your choosing; “The Duke of Smoke” ($17 per person) with your choice of two meats and three sides; and “The King of ‘Cue” ($19 per person) with your choice of three meats and three sides. All three come with house barbecue sauce and sandwich buns. 404-848-9100; smokebellybbq.com.
Terminus City, Kevin Gillespie’s pop-up barbecue restaurant, is available for on-site catering that includes pork, four sides, dessert and paper products for groups of 40 to 55 people. A two-week lead time is required on all orders. Visit the Facebook page for more information, and place orders by emailing terminuscity@gunshowatl.com or calling 404-380-1886.
When you need to please a diverse crowd:
Corso Coffee’s Italian-style coffee bar can bring La Dolce Vita to your “partito” with meat and cheese platters, sandwiches, smoked salmon, salads and more. Drop-off orders require a $150 minimum; 72 hours advance notice is required on all orders. Email dcevents@ldvatlanta.com for more information. 678-553-9009; corsocoffee.com.
HOBNOB in Midtown provides small bites like soft pretzels with warm dip or wings along with more substantial meals to share. HOBNOB makes a party a success with a full catering menu. 404-968-2288; hobnobatlanta.com.
Those craving chef Tomas Lee’s flavorful fast-casual take on Korean street food should consult the full catering menufrom Midtown Takorea & Ssam Bar. Options include a make-your-own-tako bar, tako party packs, burrito boxes, BBQ pork sliders and a selection of large snacks and sides including sesame fries and pork dumplings. 404-532-1944; mytakorea.com.
Taco Mac is available to cater a graduation bash or family picnic with plentiful party platters. Choose from signature wings—50 of them, original, roasted or boneless—for $54.95; classic chips and dip (house-made salsa for $18.95 or spicy queso for $31.95); or party favorites like quesadillas, grilled chicken ranch wraps, Monterey chicken salad, hand-breaded tenders or the triple-play tray featuring boneless wings, mini-corndogs and onion rings (prices vary). Each platter feeds six to eight hungry guests. Order online and pick up at your favorite location. http://tacomac.olo.com/
When you need a sweet treat:
Sublime Doughnuts can sweeten up any occasion with custom letter-shaped doughnut treats to spell out special messages. Select flavors only. Orders require 24 hours’ advance notice. 404-897-1801; sublimedoughnuts.com.
[From Morgan at Melissa Libby PR]
KEVIN GILLESPIE GIVES COMMUNION A MEXICAN TWIST:
COMMUNION CANTINA OPENS ON CINCO DE MAYO
ATLANTA – Just in time for a Cinco de Mayo celebration, Atlanta chef, restaurateur, speaker and cookbook author Kevin Gillespie is opening Communion Cantina, a Mexican-inspired beer garden and eatery behind his popular Revival restaurant in Decatur on Friday, May 5. In what is expected to be an annual change, this year the backyard bar will serve tacos, West Coast, Mexican, domestic and local beers and yes, margaritas.
“Opening a new restaurant every year is not an option for us but by changing Communion every season we can keep being creative and trying new things,” says Gillespie. “Next year it might be a Greek tavern!”
Formerly a German beer garden-inspired backyard, Communion reopens for the outdoor season as a casual Mexican cantina, serving five different varieties of tacos along with other Mexican staples such as chips and salsa, cheese dip and guacamole available for purchase from the backyard food truck. The bar sells beer and cocktails, including margaritas, sangria and frozen drinks like frosé and frozen mint juleps. The beer selection, both bottled and draft, features West Coast, domestic, local and Mexican brews.
“We have listened to our guests and are providing lighter, snackier food,” Gillespie adds. “It’ll be simple and traditional; pay for what you buy with cash or credit card.”
Guests are encouraged to follow Communion Cantina’s social media channels (Facebook, Instagram) for information on a chance to win free tacos for the year.
Communion Cantina opens Friday, May 5 at 4 p.m. behind Revival. Operating hours are Thursday from 5 to 10 p.m.(with Dirty South Trivia starting at 8 p.m.), Friday from 5 to 10 p.m., Saturday from 1 to 10 p.m. and Sunday from 1 to 9 p.m. Groups may reserve tables or the whole backyard for parties.
About Communion Cantina:
Communion Cantina is an extension of Revival, offering an outdoor gathering spot for imbibing and socializing in the backyard of chef Kevin Gillespie’s Decatur restaurant. Perfect for enjoying a pre- or post-dinner drink when dining at Revival or for laid-back afternoon revelry on the weekends, Communion Cantina serves beer and cocktails as well as a small menu of Mexican food truck snacks. Casual entertainment such as cornhole and other games is also provided free of charge, and reservations are not needed.
Revival and Communion Cantina are located at 129 Church Street in Decatur. For more information, call 470-225-6770or visit CommunionDecatur.com.
[From Olivia at Melissa Libby PR]
SENIOR OPERATIONS DIRECTOR JIMMY PRINCE AND EXECUTIVE CHEF RYAN SMITH BREATHE NEW LIFE INTO FOOD 101
Beloved Sandy Springs Restaurant and Pioneer of New South Cuisine Overhauls Menu,
Prepares for 18th Anniversary
ATLANTA– Food 101, a Sandy Springs neighborhood staple and one of the first Southern restaurants to open in the city in 1999, announces two new additions to the team: senior operations director Jimmy Prince and executive chef Ryan Smith. Although Food 101 celebrates its 18th anniversary in November, these new hires are helping the restaurant continue its trailblazing efforts with cutting-edge comfort food that remains both Southern-inspired and seasonal.
Senior operations director Jimmy Prince has 35 years of experience owning over 20 restaurants such as Fratelli di Napoli and Buffalo’s Cafe. Prince is passionate about interacting with staff and diners alike and spearheads the mission to ensure that Food 101 continues to serve the neighborhood as a warm and friendly gathering spot and a bastion for comfort food. Since joining the restaurant in January, he has focused on revamping the food and drink menus and making key hires to the front-of-house service staff and culinary teams.
Executive chef Ryan Smith, formerly the chef de cuisine at 101 Steak, has worked at three different 101 Concepts restaurants as well as Watershed on Peachtree in Atlanta and Southbound in Chamblee. His earlier career experiences at Food 101, Cibo e Beve and 101 Steak taught him to appreciate high-quality products and allow them to shine with simple preparations while giving him the room to experiment and grow as a chef. Smith also credits his time working under chef Joe Truex at Watershed for the development of his detail-oriented approach to simple dishes, and his time at Southbound for enabling him to fully spread his wings and discover his own culinary style. Now back at Food 101, Smith’s Southern-inspired dishes are clean, flavorful and focus on local ingredients.
With Smith’s arrival, guests can expect more seafood and vegetarian selections, new dinner options and streamlined lunch and brunch menus. Having worked at Food 101 as a sous chef in 2010, he has returned with his own style, updating the restaurant’s menus with dishes such as:
- Pan roasted Alaskan halibut with braised endive, ruby grapefruit and grapefruit vinaigrette ($36)
- Grilled skirt steak with smashed potato, oyster mushroom and herb and garlic sauce ($28)
- Smoked pulled pork enchilada with jalapeño lime slaw, avocado, cilantro and Cotija cheese ($19)
- Sea scallop salad with avocado, grapefruit, sweet onion and citrus vinaigrette ($17)
- Fried NC catfish and grits with Gayla grits, escarole, sweet pepper broth and green tomato chutney ($13)
- Kale and mushroom farrotto with spring veggies, lemon and Parmiggiano ($12)
- Fried SMF chicken biscuit with buttermilk biscuit, garlic aioli and cheddar ($13)
- House cured and smoked salmon board served with bagel and traditional toppings ($14)
Food 101 Sandy Springs is located at 4969 Roswell Road. Lunch is served Monday through Friday from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and on Saturday from noon to 4 p.m., with a mid-day menu offered weekdays from 3-5:30 p.m. Dinner is served 5:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 5:30 p.m. to 11 p.m. on Friday and Saturday. Sunday brunch is from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. For more information, call 404-497-9700 or visit food101atl.com. Additional updates are available on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.
About 101 Concepts
101 Concepts is an Atlanta-based restaurant group whose owners rely on the dynamic combination of friendship and shared work ethic for the success of their 10 restaurants. Partners Steve Buero, Chris Segal and Phil Roness first met while working the New York City restaurant scene as Iona College roommates. In 1999, they established a business partnership and found their niche in friendly, neighborhood restaurants and pubs. Today, the trio owns Food 101 and Cibo e Beve in Sandy Springs, Castleberry Hill barbecue joint Smoke Ring and 101 Steak in Vinings, plus five metro-Atlanta locations of Meehan’s Public House. In 2014, 101 Concepts also obtained Restaurant Paradis in Rosemary Beach, Florida. For more information and restaurant addresses, visit 101concepts.com.
[From Jessica at Explore Gwinnett]
METRO ATLANTA'S FIRST KOREAN FOOD TOUR IS COMING TO GWINNETT
Seoul of the South Food Tours launch May 13
(Gwinnett County, GA) - Explore Gwinnett announces Seoul of the South Korean Food Tours, a food tour by trolley, to introduce, explore and celebrate various Korean dishes and restaurants in Gwinnett.
Explore Gwinnett will offer four public tours this year: May 13, June 24, August 19 and September 30. Diners have the opportunity to visit four Korean restaurants or bakeries (rotating each tour) to experience various dishes, a chef greeting and Korean culture and cuisine tips at each stop. Tickets for all tour dates are available for purchase now.
Additionally, attendees can expect a K-Swag Bag featuring a Korean beauty product, Korean snacks, a Korean Dining Guide with additional restaurant recommendations and more. Past participating restaurants include The Stone Grill, Breaker's, Harue Food & Cafe, Tree Story Bakery & Cafe and Arte 3. Restaurants for each 2017 tour will be announced prior to the tour.
“In 2016, we tested the waters by inviting journalists, hoteliers and bloggers on a Korean food tour,” says Lisa Anders, executive director of Explore Gwinnett. “The Gwinnett Place and Suwanee dining districts are known regionally and nationally as the place for authentic Korean food, and our tours confirmed it – our guests loved it, and we knew immediately that we wanted to offer these same tours to the public.”
Sarah Park of Explore Gwinnett, a native Korean foodie with a vast knowledge of Atlanta’s ever-changing dining scene, will lead the tours.
Anders continues, "We are working to showcase high-quality restaurants that would pique a visitor’s curiosity. Our hope is that the Seoul of the South Food Tour is another memorable experience that both our residents and visitors can enjoy, return home and share with others.”
Tickets are $50 per person, and a limited number of tickets are available for each tour. See website for other stipulations and guidelines.
Please contact us for interviews with Explore Gwinnett staff or participating restaurant owners. See previous tour photoshere.
Get more details at SeouloftheSouthTour.com.
[From Morgan at Melissa Libby PR]
THE FEDERAL LETS PATRONS STEAK CLAIMS EARLY ON 50-DAY DRY-AGED MANHATTAN STRIP
Rare Treat Will Delight Connoisseur Carnivores
Now available, the Crescent Avenue restaurant offers guests an opportunity to taste this 50-day dry-aged Manhattan strip steak ($68) on their next dinner visit. The Manhattan is a premium lean cut known for its marbling, tenderness and flavor. Quantities are extremely limited.
When dry aging, beef is placed in a carefully controlled environment that offers cool temperatures and relatively high humidity. This process breaks down enzymes while allowing excess moisture to evaporate, which results in very concentrated and complex flavors.
“Most restaurants dry age their beef for an average of 28 days,” says Doty. “Our 50-day dry-aged steaks are going to have even more intense flavor, making it a meal to remember and a rare treat for steak connoisseurs.”
The Federal is located at 1050 Crescent Avenue between 11th and 12th Streets and serves weekday breakfast and lunch, dinner Tuesday through Saturday and brunch Saturday-Sunday. Reservations may be made via OpenTable. Two-hour validated parking is available next to the restaurant in the 1010 Midtown Parking deck, and additional paid parking is on Crescent Avenue. Valet parking is offered at the corner of 11th and Crescent Avenue Thursday through Saturday. For additional information, call 404-343-3857 or visit thefederalatl.com. Follow The Federal on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter for further updates.
[From Morgan at Melissa Libby PR]
2017 DATES ANNOUNCED FOR POPULAR GARDEN DINNER SERIES
AT MILTON’S CUISINE & COCKTAILS
AT MILTON’S CUISINE & COCKTAILS
Executive Chef Derek Dollar Shares Bountiful Harvest from Milton’s Acre Beginning May 21
ATLANTA – Milton’s Cuisine & Cocktails launched its popular Garden Dinner Series in 2013, and the al fresco evenings have grown into one of the most sought-after tickets in town. Executive chef Derek Dollar loves sharing straight-from-the-vine dining experiences from Milton’s Acre, the restaurant’s 1-acre garden, and is excited to announce this year’s spring and fall dates for the series, which kicks off May 21. Dinners on June 4, Sept. 24 and Oct. 15 round out the year.
“We have about 90 different varieties of heirloom fruits, vegetables and herbs growing in Milton’s Acre, and every spring we look forward to setting the garden table to share the harvest with our guests,” says Dollar. “It’s always a beautiful night when you’re dining under the stars.”
The evenings begin with passed hors d’oeuvres and libations, as well as an opportunity to tour Milton's Acre. Then, the soothing sounds of a cellist play alongside a memorable four-course meal of inspired comfort foods served family style and accompanied by wine pairings. Menu items may include delicate squash blossoms stuffed with prosciutto and cream cheese or pimiento cheese and crawfish; or roast duckling with fingerling sweet potatoes, oyster mushrooms, heirloom snap beans and candied pecan apple butter.
The Garden Dinners begin at 6 p.m., and tickets are $125 per person, per dinner. Tickets are nonrefundable within 48 hours of the event and include hors d’oeuvres and cocktail reception, dinner with wine pairings, tax and gratuity. To purchase, visit miltonscuisine.com. Milton’s Cuisine & Cocktails is located at 800 Mayfield Road in Milton. For more information, call 770-817-0161.
[From Hannah at Phase 3 MC]
A Taste of the Highlands Announces 14th Annual Food Festival
All-inclusive culinary tasting event returns sponsored by Fifth Group Restaurants to benefit Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta
ATLANTA– A Taste of the Highlands, a culinary event highlighting the best bites and beverages of the Virginia-Highland neighborhood and beyond, announces that tickets are now available for the 14th annual festival in John Howell Park on Saturday, May 13, from 2 to 5 p.m.
The longest-running, completely volunteer-organized food event in the city will return in 2017 after a one year hiatus sponsored by Fifth Group Restaurants, the esteemed restaurant group behind noteworthy Atlanta concepts South City Kitchen, Ecco, Lure, Alma Cocina, La Tavola and The Original El Taco. All proceeds from the event will benefit Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, supporting various initiatives including critical care equipment, emergency transport vehicles and patient and family support services.
“We are extremely excited to kick off the 14th A Taste of the Highlands event this year and hope to raise our largest donation to date for Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta” said Pace Leake Parsons, Intown Friends/A Taste of the Highlands chairman. “With the help of our incredible sponsors, volunteers, restaurants and beverage partners, we’re back with a bang this year to serve up an exceptional community and culinary driven experience to the residents of Virginia-Highland and beyond.”
A Taste of the Highlands general admission ticket-holders will enjoy unlimited food and drinks from more than 30 Atlanta restaurants and beverage partners as they enjoy live music from Atlanta-based group Caleb Warren and the Perfect Gentleman. Those who purchase the full VIP experience will also gain access to a separate, streamlined entrance, a tented area with exclusive tastings, premium beer and wine, extra seating, separate reserved restrooms and a $25 gift certificate to Fifth Group Restaurants. VIP guests will also enjoy the service of designated beverage attendants throughout the event to avoid waiting in line.
“Fifth Group has always been committed to supporting the vibrant Virginia-Highland community,” said Fifth Group Restaurants partner Robby Kukler. “With two restaurants in the neighborhood, La Tavola and El Taco, I think I speak for our full team when I say that we are overjoyed for A Taste of the Highlands to return this year in support of a great cause.”
In 2015, A Taste of the Highlands raised almost $38,000 for Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta. With the support of attendees, volunteers, title sponsor Fifth Group Restaurants and other sponsors, including Terrapin Beer Co., Rubicon, Gas South, Times 3, SBX Technologies and the Hauser Family Foundation, the event hopes to far surpass that amount in 2017.
Tickets for the event may be purchased online through Friday, May 12, and a limited amount will be available at the event on Saturday, May 13, for an additional fee. The first 150 general admission tickets will be sold at a $10 discount. Following the promotion, general admission tickets can be purchased for $60. VIP tickets will be sold for $100 and must be purchased in advance. Student discounts and children’s tickets are also available. To purchase tickets and learn more about the festival, please visit www.tasteofthehighlands.com.
About Fifth Group Restaurants
The legacy began in 1993 when Robby Kukler, Steve Simon and their partner Kris Reinhard opened South City Kitchen on Crescent Avenue in the heart of midtown Atlanta. A continued focus on innovation and growth led to the development of South City Kitchen Vinings and Buckhead, La Tavola Trattoria, Ecco, The Original El Taco, Alma Cocina, Lure, and one of the South’s most renowned catering and event design companies, Bold American Events. These successful concepts make up Fifth Group Restaurants, Atlanta’s award-winning chef and community driven hospitality group.
Over the past 24 years, Fifth Group Restaurants’ food, chefs, business practices, sustainability initiatives and community involvement have been frequent features of high profile publications such as The New York Times, Atlanta Business Chronicle, Atlanta Journal-Constitution, Southern Living, Food & Wine, Garden & Gun, USA Today andEsquire.
For more information, please visit www.fifthgroup.com, follow on Twitter and Instagram or become a fan on Facebook.
[From Morgan at Melissa Libby PR]
MARLOW’S TAVERN SPRINGS FORWARD WITH NEW CROP OF COCKTAILS AND DISHES
Farm to Fork Approach Adds Fresh Items to Menu at Atlanta’s Favorite Tavern
ATLANTA– Nothing says spring like freshly harvested garden vegetables. Marlow’s Tavern is welcoming the spring season with new features on both the food and drink menus beginning April 18. Marlow’s Tavern executive chef, CEO and co-founder John C. Metz and his research and development director Ben Krawiecki have been listening to their local food sources and experimenting in the kitchen to bring the new palate- and wallet-pleasing plates to the menu.
“Georgia has become famous for its rainbow trout. We’ll be pairing it with cauliflower, green beans, shiitake mushrooms, tofu, poke and charred scallions. Our pan-roasted version is incredibly light, a perfect complement to a warm spring or summer day,” says Metz.
Of course, what would spring be without something sumptuous to sip? Thanks to Rick Blumberg, manager of adult beverages for Marlow’s Tavern, guests can taste fresh cocktail concoctions.
“Our guests have always raved about our mojitos,” Blumberg says. “For the spring, we’ve added a blackberry mojito to the menu, combining mint with berry syrup. I have a feeling it’s going to become a tavern favorite.”
Additional new seasonal menu items include:
- Tavern Salad: Shaved fennel, radish, spiced seeds, citrus dressing
- Tuna Nicoise Salad: Large-sliced tuna saku, arugula, roasted tomatoes, green beans, fingerling potatoes, Kalamata olives, sliced egg, chopped parsley, potato sticks, lemonette dressing
- Grilled Chicken Stack: Herb-marinated chicken, served with roasted fingerling potatoes, rosemary, thyme, blistered grape tomatoes, artichokes, baby arugula, green beans lemonette, parslied olive oil
- Black and Blue Steak: Grilled beef tenderloin, Field greens, pickled red onion, tomato carpaccio, crumbled gorgonzola, sliced scallions, gorgonzola dressing
- Fried Banana Split: Phyllo-wrapped banana, panko crusted, vanilla ice cream, chocolate, strawberry & caramel sauces with salted caramel whipped cream
- Pom Collins – Tito’s, PAMA Liqueur, house sour mix, simple syrup, mint leaf, pomegranate seeds
- Southern Charmer – Old Forester, Domaine De Canton, peach, lavender, lemon bitters
For more information on the new menus, visit marlowstavern.com.
About Marlow’s Tavern
Marlow’s Tavern was established in November of 2004 with the opening of its first location in Alpharetta, Ga., and has continued to grow over the years, adding several Atlanta-area and Florida taverns. In 2013, Nation’s Restaurant News named Marlow’s Tavern one of its “NRN 50 Breakout Brands” for the year. The neighborhood restaurant concept is open for lunch and dinner daily, offering guests classic American tavern fare with an upscale twist. For more information and location addresses, visit marlowstavern.com.
[From Morgan at Melissa Libby PR]
TACO MAC BRINGS MORE BREWS AND BUFFALO WINGS TO THE SUNNY SOUTH: NEW LOCATION OPENING IN MCDONOUGH, GEORGIA THIS MAY
Iconic Brand Introduces State-of-the-Art Restaurant Prototype
ATLANTA– Known for providing best-in-class wings, the most craft on draft and the best sports-watching environment, Taco Mac is now bringing a new freestanding restaurant to the South Point Shopping Center in McDonough, Georgia, this May. The McDonough location is a brand new prototype and is the first new Taco Mac location to open in two years.
“We are very excited to bring Taco Mac’s seamless blend of family-friendly dining and favorite neighborhood sports bar with 120 taps and 72 HDTVs to McDonough,” says CEO Greg Lippert. “We’ve listened to our guests and are now offering more food, beverage and event options than ever before. We’re excited to launch our new, state-of-the-art restaurant prototype that showcases Taco Mac as a leader in craft on draft and the best place to watch all sports.”
The first location for Henry County, the new McDonough restaurant is just under 6,300 square feet and located at South Point Exit 218, GA Hwy 20, in an upscale retail and dining destination in one of the nation’s fastest growing counties. The industrial chic-inspired design includes features that reflect the brand’s roots – sports and beer – and include elements like an exterior wall made from beer kegs, reclaimed barn wood finishes and a state-of-the-art audio and visual system that includes Harmon Cardon speakers, 12” Sunfire subwoofers, 72 HDTVs and a video wall.
Guests can look forward to special events for both Brewniversity members and McDonough neighbors leading up to the opening. The new Taco Mac location will also work closely with local brewery partners for a planned series of local beer events and special tappings within the first few weeks of opening.
Founded in Atlanta in 1979 as a Buffalo wings restaurant, Taco Mac has grown to 30 locations in Georgia, North Carolina and Tennessee. While that flavorful wing is still the thing, and one of the key reasons guests keep coming back for more, the entire restaurant team has elevated listening to guests to an art form, continually refreshing their successful model and introducing new food, beverage and event offerings.
MAY THE BEST BREW WIN: TACO MAC HOSTS 5th ANNUAL SOUTHERN HOME BREWER’S CHALLENGE
Southeastern Destination for the Most Craft on Draft Partners with Reformation Brewery for Atlanta-Area Pro-Am Competition in June/July
ATLANTA– After nearly 40 years of providing award winning wings, the most craft on draft and the best sports-watching environment, Taco Mac is also capturing the attention of home brewers. This summer, the Atlanta institution is joining forces with Woodstock, Georgia-based Reformation Brewery to host the 5th annual Southern Home Brewer’s Challenge, an exciting pro-am competition where one winning recipe will be produced by Reformation and sold at Taco Mac restaurants across the Southeast this fall.
“We have always been an expert in beer selection, and the Southern Home Brewer’s Challenge is another way for us to stay true to our roots while also working with one of our top local brewing partners,” says Beverage Director Adam Anacker. “Many of our guests are involved in the home brewing community, and together with Reformation Brewery we want to provide an environment that encourages their skills along with some friendly competition.”
Throughout June and July, beer submissions will be accepted at Atlanta-area Taco Mac locations (eligible dates and locations listed below). A panel of judges, made up of representatives from Taco Mac and Reformation, along with other Atlanta-area beer luminaries, will judge the submissions in July and announce a winner on July 22. Reformation will then fine-tune the winning recipe to work within its brew system specifications, and the final recipe will go into commercial production with a targeted release date of November 2017 as Taco Mac’s Beer of the Month.
All beer submissions must include two 12-ounce bottles (large bottles and growlers are not permitted) and have an accompanying information sheet. Ingredients used must be readily available since a large quantity of the winning beer will be produced. Ale styles are preferred due to Reformation’s brewery equipment. Submissions will be accepted between 5-8 p.m. at the following locations only on the specified dates, during which there will be a Taco Mac representative on site to receive the samples:
• Tuesday, June 6 at Taco Mac in Woodstock
• Friday, June 9 at Taco Mac in Kennesaw
• Tuesday, June 13 at Taco Mac at Prado
• Friday, June 16 at Taco Mac in Crabapple
• Tuesday, June 20 at Taco Mac at Windward Pkwy
• Friday, June 23 at Taco Mac in Peachtree City
• Tuesday, June 27 at Taco Mac in Kennesaw
• Friday, June 30 at Taco Mac at Metropolis
• Tuesday, July 11 at Taco Mac in Duluth
• Friday, July 14 at Taco Mac at Woodstock
Additional details on the 2017 Southern Home Brewer’s Challenge are available on Taco Mac’s website. Reformation Brewery is located at 500 Arnold Mill Way, Suite A, in Woodstock, Georgia. For more information, call (678) 341-0828 or visit reformationbrewery.com.
TACO MAC PUTS NEW DISHES ON DECK WITH SPRING/SUMMER MENU
Limited-Time-Only Offerings and New Menu Additions in the Lineup Starting May 3
ATLANTA – The Southeast’s go-to restaurant for the best sports viewing environment, the most craft on draft and award-winning Buffalo wings is winding up for warmer weather with an innovative menu and a new selection of limited-time offerings. Taco Mac will introduce these food and beverage items on Wednesday, May 3, giving fans even more reasons to visit this perennial favorite.
“Guest feedback is paramount in helping us continually refresh our menu,” says CEO Greg Lippert. “For instance, we are bringing back an MVP appetizer that was offered during the March basketball tournaments and turning it into a regular menu item due to the dish’s popularity.”
The Three Pointer is a trio of Taco Mac’s favorite appetizers, including mozzarella sticks, onion rings and NEW fried pickles served with house-made marinara and Buffalo ranch for dipping ($8.99). Other new additions to the daily menu that are sure to be just as sought-after include:
- Hot Dang Shrimp: Crispy panko-breaded shrimp served with sweet chili dipping sauce ($7.99/appetizer or $9.99/entrée)
- Classic Street Taco: Seasoned ground beef, Taco Mac queso, romaine, cheddar cheese and pico de gallo ($9.99/trio)
- The Perimeter Burger: order it “ITP Style” (cheese stuffed inside the burger) or “OTP Style” (cheese on the burger)! Ghost chili pepper cheese, fresh guacamole, sautéed poblano peppers, bacon-caramelized onions and mayo. Served with fries. ($9.99)
- Wings on Tap with Chili Mango Dry Rub: Taco Mac’s premium fresh, never frozen wings marinated in a Samuel Adams Boston Lager brine for 12 hours then fried and tossed in a chili mango dry rub. Served with ranch or blue cheese and choice of classic side. ($9.99/six wings)
- Red Zone Fries: crispy French fries topped with ground taco beef, Taco Mac queso, cheddar jack, pico de gallo and fresh jalapeños. ($8.99)
- Chili Mango Salmon Salad: grilled salmon seasoned with a chili mango dry rub, fresh field greens, arugula, cucumber, avocado, queso fresco and mango pico de gallo. Drizzled with mango-citrus vinaigrette. ($14.99)
- Salmon Skillet: grilled salmon seasoned with choice of chili mango or Korean black garlic dry rub. Served sizzling on a skillet, topped with mango pico de gallo and served with roasted Parmesan zucchini. ($14.99)
“Pinpointing guests’ values and what they’re looking for in a dining experience leads to guest loyalty and ultimately inspires Taco Mac’s growth,” adds Lippert. “Our new menu features a lot of fresh, bold flavors to suit the season alongside the go-to dishes everyone craves.”
About Taco Mac
An Atlanta institution since 1979, Taco Mac offers over 100 beers on draft, the Southeast’s Original Buffalo wings and 50+ HD TVs for enjoying all your favorite sporting events. Started by two friends from Buffalo, New York, Taco Mac now has 30 locations across Georgia, Tennessee and North Carolina. Taco Mac has been named the best sports bar in Atlanta by the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, Jezebel and Groupon and one of the five best sports bars in America by ESPN. Taco Mac is one of many portfolio companies owned by Dallas-based CIC Partners. For more information, visit tacomac.com.
[From Morgan at Melissa Libby PR]
SUBLIME DOUGHNUTS THINKS OUTSIDE THE [CEREAL] BOX
FOR A SWEET SATURDAY MORNING SURPRISE
Cereal Doughnuts Make Limited Weekly Appearance at Atlanta’s Home for Chef-Crafted Pastries
Cereal Doughnuts Make Limited Weekly Appearance at Atlanta’s Home for Chef-Crafted Pastries
ATLANTA– What’s more fun than finding the prize hidden in the cereal box? When the surprise IS the cereal box! Sublime Doughnuts is giving guests a sweet pairing for their weekend cartoons with a new featured doughnut that changes weekly: the Saturday Morning Cereal doughnut.
The Atlanta bakeshop beloved for its funky doughnuts has a knack for making guests feel like kids again, giddy with excitement over owner Kamal Grant’s innovative flavors. Now, Grant makes a trip to the grocery store every Saturdaymorning to purchase two boxes of cereal at random – one box goes to the shop’s Midtown location and the other goes to the North Druid Hills location. Then, each shop creates a limited supply of special cereal doughnuts based on the chosen box. Flavors could include any cereal from Cap’n Crunch to Kellogg’s Raisin Bran.
Sublime begins churning out the doughnuts at 7 a.m. each Saturday until the limited supply runs out, so arriving in pajamas is perfectly acceptable. After all, breakfast is the most important meal of the day.
SUBLIME DOUGHNUTS KEEPS ATLANTA COOL WITH CUSTOM ICE CREAM FLAVORS
City’s Home for Chef-Crafted Doughnuts Serves Up Delicious, Frozen Treats
City’s Home for Chef-Crafted Doughnuts Serves Up Delicious, Frozen Treats
The Atlanta bakeshop beloved for its fun, funky doughnuts is also the city’s premier spot for delicious homemade ice cream. And each scoop is imbued with the same passion and flair for imaginative flavors that have made Sublime the sweetheart of the metro area’s confectionary scene. Sublime’s ice cream boasts inventive takes on classic tastes, and chef-driven offerings inspired by popular cookies, candy bars and other well-known treats.
“Making ice cream is very different from making doughnuts,” Sublime founder Kamal Grant says. “But they’re both delicious, and they both make people happy, and that’s what it’s all about for us. Our goal is always the same: to provide our guests with flavors, textures and quality they can’t get anywhere else.”
Sublime offers a regular roster of tried-and-true favorites including vanilla bean, mega chocolate, Cinnamon Toast Crunch, strawberry rosé, peach Riesling, Reese’s peanut butter, white chocolate Oreo and limoncello. In addition, the bakeshop features a rotating selection of flavors that includes chocolate chip mint, coffee, strawberry cheesecake, orange dream, Heath bar, butter pecan, red velvet, Nestle, Butterfinger, Kit Kat, birthday cake and salted caramel.
About Sublime Doughnuts:
Sublime Doughnuts has been bringing chef-inspired sweets and treats to Atlanta since 2008. With hand-pressed, gourmet coffee, homemade ice cream and over 30 varieties of doughnuts, Sublime proves that they don’t take the cake--they take the dough. In addition to their flagship store in West Midtown, Sublime has expanded to North Druid Hills and plans to open two locations in the new Mercedes-Benz Stadium in 2017. For more information, visit www.sublimedoughnuts.com.
[From Morgan at Melissa Libby PR]
GIVE MOM A BREAK THIS MOTHER’S DAY
Atlanta Restaurants Serving Memorable Specials and Events
Atlanta Restaurants Serving Memorable Specials and Events
Downtown/Midtown
Enjoy a scrumptious brunch buffet at 5Church Atlanta from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. All moms receive one free mimosa. Price is $35 for adults and $15 for children 12 and under (tax not included). 404-400-3669; 5churchatlanta.com.
HOBNOB Neighborhood Tavern is giving out roses to all mothers who come in on Sunday. The Midtown favorite serves its popular brunch menu from 10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. and $17 bottomless mimosas from 12:30 to 4 p.m. There’s live music from 1 to 4 p.m. and half-price wings from 4 to 10 p.m. Mom doesn’t get all the fun—it’s also Family Sunday Funday, so kids 12 and under eat free with purchase of an adult entrée from 4 to 10 p.m. 404-968-2288, hobnobatlanta.com.
Buckhead
Treat your special lady to the Sunday prime rib dinner at American Cut from 4 to 9 p.m., featuring a 12 oz. dry aged prime rib served with beef jus, horseradish sauce and choice of side. Cost is $52 per person (not including tax and gratuity). 770-415-9766, americancutsteakhouse.com/
Aria, Gerry Klaskala’s Buckhead hotspot for a cutting-edge take on contemporary American cuisine, is normally closed on Sundays but is opening its doors to help you treat mom to a Mother’s Day dinner she’ll never forget. Dinner is served from 5 to 9 p.m. 404-233-7673, aria-atl.com.
Experience the best of both Gypsy Kitchen (404-939-9840) and The Southern Gentleman (404-939-9845) as the sister restaurants host an epic all-you-can-eat buffet presented by chef Matthew Ridgway. Titled “Spain & Twain Await You,” this event combines the best of Gypsy Kitchen’s tour of the culinary traditions of Spain and The Southern Gentleman’s sophisticated take on Southern cuisine. Both restaurants are open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Cost is $54.95 per person for adults and $19.95 for kids 12 and under. sphospitality.com.
North Fulton
Food 101 in Sandy Springs is offering a special Mother’s Day menu from 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., including butter Bibb salad, smoked salmon and arugula tart, raspberries and cream crêpes, apple cinnamon French toast casserole, grilled Atlantic salmon, lobster Cobb salad, sea scallops and grits, herb-roasted lamb shoulder and an 8 oz. filet Oscar. A select menu of brunch favorites is also available. The restaurant then serves its regular dinner menu from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. 404-497-9700; food101atl.com.
Take mom to historic Crabapple for a farm-to-fork dining experience at Milton’s Cuisine & Cocktails. A three-course Mother’s Day menu is available for $38 per person (plus tax and gratuity) and features options such as beet cured salmon and avocado toasts, Southern fried chicken breast with buttermilk mashed potatoes and Andouille red eye gravy, shrimp and grits, a key lime pie mason jar and chocolate chess pie. 770-817-0161; miltonscuisine.com.
Multiple Locations
Enjoy brunch buffet-style at Marlow’s Tavern in Midtown, Northlake, East Cobb, Kennesaw and Vinings until 3 p.m. (2 p.m. in Vinings). Offerings may include made-to-order omelets, crab cake Benedict, French toast and scrambled eggs, among others. Other Marlow’s locations are featuring an à la carte menu boasting such items as chicken and waffles, lemon ricotta pancakes, shrimp and grits, “serious” steak and eggs, brunch cocktails and other favorites. marlowstavern.com.
Ray’s Restaurants set the standard for lavish buffets in a setting mom will love. Whatever time of day your mother prefers, Ray’s on the River (770-955-1187) in Sandy Springs stands ready with a sumptuous spread of breakfast, brunch and dinner options as the day progresses (9 a.m. to 8 p.m.) Cost is $45.95 per adult and $22.95 for children ages 5 to 10. In Alpharetta, Ray’s at Killer Creek (770-649-0064) is also open from 9 a.m.-8 p.m., serving a seemingly unending assortment of breakfast, brunch and dinner favorites. $39.95 for adults; $19.95 for children ages 5 to 10. Inside the Perimeter, downtown stalwart Ray’s in the City (404-524-9224) offers an enchanting Mother’s Day brunch buffet from 9 a.m.-3:30 p.m. and its regular à la carte dinner menu from 5 to 8 p.m. The buffet is $39.95 for adults and $19.95 for children ages 5 to 10. raysrestaurants.com.
Sublime Doughnuts, with locations at Georgia Tech and North Druid Hills, sweetens up the occasion with M-shaped A-Town Cream doughnuts to spell out “MOM.” 404-897-1801; sublimedoughnuts.com.
All moms visiting Willy's Mexicana Grill on May 13 and 14 receive a coupon for $5 off any order of $15 or more to use for a future visit through the end of the month. Those restaurants closed on weekends will hand out cards on Friday, May 12. Excludes airport location. willys.com.
In addition, the following Atlanta-area dining spots are available to show you and your mom a wonderful time on Mother's Day or any other weekend:
- Sunday dining at Jefe's Tacos & Tequila, located in the Town Brookhaven development, means brunch through dinner treats as well as bottomless mimosas from 12:30 to 3 p.m. On Mother’s Day, all moms receive one free mimosa during brunch. 404-963-6205; jefestacos.com.
- Brookhaven’s Kaleidoscope Bistro & Pub is open as usual, offering its regular array of brunch, gourmet pizza and comfort food favorites. 404-474-9600, k-pub.com.
- Midtown Takorea & Ssam Bar on Juniper Street is a fun alternative for Mother’s Day dining, open noon to 10 p.m. 404-532-1944; mytakorea.com.
- Rize Artisan Pizza + Salads in Poncey-Highland now serves Sunday brunch from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.From frittatas to breakfast sandwiches and breakfast pizzas, it’s sure to be a new favorite brunch destination on Mother’s Day and every Sunday. 404-334-0500; rizeartisanpizza.com.
- In East Cobb, Seed Kitchen & Bar (678-214-6888) and Drift Fish House & Oyster Bar (770-635-7641) are offering their regular brunch menus, with Mother’s Day specials to be announced.
- Drop anchor at either location of The Big Ketch (Buckhead or Roswell) for live music and such seafood favorites as shrimp and scallops, Creole shrimp and grits and bourbon orange-glazed salmon. thebigketch.com.
- Midtown’s The Federal serves Sunday brunch from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and dinner from 5-9 p.m., so you can treat mom to French cuisine and traditional American steakhouse favorites. 404-343-3857, thefederalatl.com.
- Bring mom to Decatur for traditional Southern favorites from Revival. The eatery that pays homage to Chef Kevin Gillespie’s grandmother is open for Sunday brunch from 10:30 a.m.-3 p.m. and dinner from 5-9 p.m. 470-225-6770, revivaldecatur.
com.
RAY’S IN THE CITY CATERS TO NEIGHBORHOOD NEEDS WITH NEW CATERING MENU
ATLANTA – Since 2003, Ray’s in the City has welcomed Downtown Atlanta’s residents, visitors and business crowds through its doors to enjoy hand-cut steaks, made-to-order sushi and premier seafood flown in daily. While owner Ray Schoenbaum is delighted they bring their business to him, he is just as happy to bring his business to them with the restaurant’s newest catering menu, perfect for breakfast and lunch meetings or happy hour and cocktail gatherings.
Schoenbaum firmly believes breakfast is the key to getting an early morning meeting off to a great start. From fresh fruit displays to tantalizing Scottish smoked salmon platter and beverage bars, Ray’s in the City offers a variety of traditional buffet options, which include action stations for preparing made-to-order items.
While Ray’s service team is happy to deliver sandwich platters or boxed meals for lunch or dinner, they can easily put on their whites to create a multi-course seated meal. Customized buffets provide diners with choices such as their popular Atlanta salmon Oscar with jumbo lump crab meat and béarnaise, and roasted Springer Mountain Farms chicken with herb jus.
Because certain conditions clearly call for queso, there are also several popular Ray’s Rio Bravo Events selections on the catering menu, such as a grilled fajita bar and a frozen margarita machine.
“It’s hard to make business decisions on an empty stomach,” Schoenbaum says. “Our catering team offers the same high quality food and service downtown customers expect when they dine in. We are experts at transforming a catered breakfast, lunch, dinner or happy hour into a memorable experience.”
Breakfast pricing is based on 12 guests and ranges from $60 to $140 for displays and $75 to $85 for action stations. Lunch packages are also based on 12 guests and include sandwich platters for $72 and $96 or boxed lunches for $96. The full Ray’s experience of signature menu items is available as an Executive Lunch Buffet for $350 or a Corporate Dinner Display for $425, based on 12 guests. Reception displays feature fruit, vegetables, sushi, beef tenderloin and more and range from $30 to $295 in varying sizes to suit all group needs.
To add more flavor to your next event, contact Ray’s sales and events department at 404-527-6631 or email them at cityevents@raysrestaurants.com
About Ray’s Restaurants:
Ray’s Restaurants, LLC, is comprised of Ray’s on the River, Ray’s in the City, Ray’s at Killer Creek and Ray’s Rio Bravo Events. Ray’s on the River, Ray’s in the City and Ray’s at Killer Creek all feature an award-winning menu with an emphasis on fresh fish flown in daily from the Atlantic and Pacific, house-cut chops, prime steaks and extensive wine offerings from around the world. Ray’s Rio Bravo Events is a private event venue offering fresh and fun Tex-Mex cuisine, refreshing margaritas and more for the ultimate fiesta. Raysrestaurants.com.
[From Olivia at Melissa Libby PR]
NEW LUNCH SPECIAL AND SPRING DISHES AT STORICO FRESCO ALIMENTARI E RISTORANTE
Buckhead Market and Restaurant Says “Ciao” to Warmer Weather with Lighter Flavors of Italy
Lunch-goers can now enjoy a half panini along with a side salad for $12. Panini options include 16-month prosciutto with grilled zucchini and Robiola, and Callipo tuna with housemade mayonnaise, mozzarella di bufala, arugula and red onion.
Additionally, co-owner and culinary director Mike Patrick has added the following new items to the antipasti, insalata and pasta selections on both the lunch and dinner menus:
- Clams: steamed Sapelo Island clams, grilled bread ($14)
- Insalata salmone: frisée, Skuna Bay pan-seared salmon filet, lentils, pistachio, mustard vinaigrette ($21)
- Gnocchi: arrabiata sugo, mozzarella di bufala, basil ($16)
Storico Fresco Alimentari e Ristorante is located at 3167 Peachtree Road NE, Suite S in Buckhead. The restaurant is open for lunch (11:30 am to 5:30 pm) and dinner (5:30 pm to 10 pm) Monday through Saturday; the market is open Monday through Saturday from 10 am to 8 pm. Reservations are available for the restaurant and are recommended. Ample self-parking is available onsite in both the front and rear lots, and valet parking is offered Thursday through Saturday. For additional information, call (404) 500-2181 or visit storicofresco.com. For additional updates, follow the restaurant on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.
If you'd like to invite Bella Vivere to cover & share your restaurant's media events, tastings or parties, feel free to shoot me an email at bellavivere {at} gmail {dot} com-Thanks!
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