Thursday, April 28, 2016

Sublime Doughnuts Opens Second Atlanta Location in Druid Hills with Further Growth Planned



For more information:
Emily Connolly or Morgan Dyches
Melissa Libby & Associates
404-816-3068


SUBLIME DOUGHNUTS OPENS SECOND ATLANTA LOCATION
IN DRUID HILLS WITH FURTHER GROWTH PLANNED
 “Chef-Inspired” Doughnut Shop Now Open to Satisfy More of The City’s Sweet Teeth

ATLANTA (April 28, 2016) – Most Atlantans would agree that a visit to Sublime Doughnuts is nothing short of uplifting. The beloved specialty doughnut and bakeshop is doling out even more transcendent eating experiences with the addition of a Druid Hills location. The doughnut shop at 2566 Briarcliff Road NE is now open and will continue operating 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.  The new location signifies the beginning of Sublime Brands' growth into neighborhoods all around Atlanta. 

"We're looking forward to being a great neighbor in the Druid Hills community," says Pano Balomenos, co-owner for Sublime Brands and alum of Emory University’s Goizueta Business School. "Our motto is ‘Eat One That’s Worth It,’ and we believe if you’re going to indulge, it might as well be in a fresh, quality product. Now, all of the residents, students and staff around Emory University’s college and hospital campus, as well as surrounding office workers, have a place to stop by for breakfast, dessert and late night snacks."

Founder and chef Kamal Grant opened Sublime’s flagship store in West Midtown in 2008 and has since become known for his inventive 30+ varieties of doughnuts that incorporate a specialty yeast dough recipe. Sublime Doughnuts also offers ice cream, ice cream burgers, nitrogen-infused gourmet cold brew coffee and a café au lait line called Cloud Coffees. The Druid Hills shop will feature the same menu as West Midtown, including favorites such as the A-Town Cream and Orange Dream Star doughnuts, along with a larger selection of freshly made ice creams and coffee offerings.

Z Space designed the 1,384-square-foot shop, which features 12 seats and a large gelato case imported from Italy. The shop’s décor is as fun and unique as its product line. A neon sign of Sublime’s logo – a 16-foot doughnut with wings – is displayed inside the dining room. Even the bathroom, where guests will feel like they are on a desert island looking out into the ocean, provides an escape from the daily grind.

Located in The Village at Druid Hills at the corner of Briarcliff and North Druid Hills, the store offers ample free parking in a convenient location.  The Sublime Doughnuts team is excited to see the brand extend its reach to the surrounding Emory community and beyond.

“This is our first foray into multi-unit corporate expansion,” says Balomenos. “We are looking for locations that have a strong residential population and a high-density office component. Atlanta neighborhoods from Buckhead to Midtown to Dunwoody make sense for us for future growth.”

Sublime Doughnuts is located in Druid Hills at 2566 Briarcliff Road NE and in West Midtown at 535 10th Street NW. Both locations are open 24 hours a day, seven days a week.  Self-parking is available at both locations. For more information, visit sublimedoughnuts.com, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

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Monday, April 25, 2016

Atlanta Artist Awarded $10,000 Scholarship at All-Star Chef Charity Event

For more information:
Emily Connolly or Morgan Dyches
Melissa Libby & Associates
404-816-3068
emilyc@melissalibbypr.com
morgan@melissalibbypr.com


ATLANTA ARTIST AWARDED $10,000 SCHOLARSHIP AT ALL-STAR CHEF CHARITY EVENT
Award in Honor of Late Photographer Emily Cameron To Be Presented to Natalie Escobar
at Umi on May 1

ATLANTA (April 25, 2016) - Atlanta-based painter Natalie Escobar has been named the recipient of a $10,000 art scholarship given in memory of the late photographer Emily Cameron. The scholarship, presented by author Kate Parham Kordsmeier, photographer Heidi Geldhauser and Cameron's parents, is awarded to a service-industry worker pursuing a career in the arts.

"Emily worked in the service industry as a way to supplement her lifestyle, and this scholarship is an opportunity to give financial support to another local artist working in the service industry and pay homage to the artist, photographer, daughter, sister and friend we've lost," says Geldhauser.

Escobar, a server at The Porter Beer Bar, was recently named a 2015-2016 Leap Year Artist in Residence at MINT Gallery. She has also been awarded a residency at the Hambidge Center for the Creative Arts and Sciences in Rabun Gap, Georgia, to begin this fall. Escobar plans to use the scholarship funds to help her prepare for her first solo show in Atlanta this fall and spend more time in the studio.

“I couldn’t be more thrilled to be chosen for this scholarship,” Escobar says. “It’s a great honor, and I only hope I can make Kate, Heidi and especially Emily, proud.”

Escobar will receive the scholarship during an all-star chefs’ charity event to be held May 1 at Umi in Cameron’s honor. The evening will feature a lineup of Atlanta’s most celebrated chefs working together to prepare a multi-course dinner with wine pairings. Confirmed chefs include Fuyuhiko and Lisa Ito, Gerry Klaskala, Joey Ward, Asha Gomez, Bruce Logue, Todd Ginsberg, Billy Allin, Todd Mussman, Landon Thompson, Adam Evans, Phillipe Haddad, Matt Weinstein and Christopher Maher.

Tickets are $250 per person and include a 6.p.m. Champagne reception at Himitsu with passed appetizers and a signature cocktail by Gunshow called “The Emily,” followed by a family-style dinner with wine pairings at 7 p.m. at Umi. Tickets are currently available online through Xorbia.


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Thursday, April 21, 2016

Gunshow Hosts Chef Brian Baxter of Husk for “Hired Guns” Dinners on May 22 and 23


For more information:
Emily Connolly or Morgan Dyches
at Melissa Libby & Associates
404-816-3068

GUNSHOW HOSTS FORBES’ 30 UNDER 30 CHEF BRIAN BAXTER OF HUSK
IN NASHVILLE FOR “HIRED GUNS” DINNERS ON MAY 22 AND 23
Sought-After Seats for Guest Chef Appearances at Kevin Gillespie’s
Glenwood Park Restaurant on Sale April 22 at 8 a.m.

ATLANTA (April 21, 2016) – Although Gunshow’s “Hired Guns” series has already played host to award-winning guest chefs Brian Voltaggio and Vishwesh Bhatt this year, the fun isn’t over by a long shot. The 2016 lineup continues with chef de cuisine Brian Baxter of HUSK in Nashville, Tennessee, who will grace the Atlanta restaurant’s kitchen on Sunday, May 22 and Monday, May 23. Diners will have the opportunity to mingle with Baxter, who was recently named one of Forbes’ 30 Under 30, and taste his cuisine while also experiencing Gunshow’s unique service style and innovative dishes.

Restaurateur, chef, cookbook author and speaker Kevin Gillespie, along with executive chef Joey Ward and Gunshow's “kitchen dudes” will be cooking alongside Baxter both nights. A limited number of tickets are available for purchase starting at 8 a.m. on April 22 via Xorbia. The cost is $95 per person (not including drinks, tax and gratuity).

“HUSK is considered a celebration of the South’s bounty, and I think Kevin, Joey and I share a very similar vision for our ingredient-driven cuisine,” says Baxter. “I find their passion for local products admirable and am really looking forward to collaborating with the whole Gunshow team.”

Baxter learned to cook, bake and garden at an early age by shadowing his mother. He went on to attend The Culinary Institute of America and, in 2008, he had the opportunity to stage at McCrady’s in Charleston, South Carolina. Baxter considers this experience working under chef Sean Brock a highlight of his career; so much so that it inspired him to turn down a job opportunity at a high-profile New York restaurant in 2011 to return to McCrady’s as chef de partie. Baxter was soon tapped to serve as sous chef on Husk Nashville’s opening team and was promoted to chef de cuisine shortly thereafter. A former football player, he likens the intensity on the field to that of the kitchen and says teamwork and passion are necessary components to success in both arenas. In his spare time, Baxter enjoys foraging Tennessee wildlife.

“Our 'Hired Guns' events just intensify the excitement and creative passion normally flowing into our dining room, and the energy is going to be off the charts when we get Brian in the kitchen with us," says Gillespie. "He is a master with Lowcountry ingredients and a skilled gardener of heirloom grains and vegetables.  Our guests are really going to enjoy the way he brings Southern food to the table."


The remaining 2016"Hired Guns" lineup is as follows:

  •         September 11-12: Brooke Williamson of Hudson House in Redondo Beach, California (Tickets on sale August 11 at 8 a.m.)
  •         October 23-24: Vivian Howard of Chef & the Farmer in Kinston, North Carolina (Tickets on sale September 23 at 8 a.m.)



Gunshow is located at 924 Garrett Street. The restaurant is open for dinner Tuesday through Saturday from 6 to 9 p.m. Reservations are accepted but not required. Guests may park in the Glenwood Park parking lot and on the street. For more information, visit gunshowatl.com or call 404-380-1886.

About Red Beard Restaurants
Red Beard Restaurants is the parent company that oversees Atlanta chef, restaurateur, speaker and cookbook author Kevin Gillespie’s food and beverage ventures, including his restaurants Gunshow and Revival, his BBQ pop-up Terminus City and all of his merchandise. The management company allows Gillespie to set comprehensive standards to ensure smart expansion, offer more internal growth opportunities for his team members and provide consulting services to other food and beverage start-ups. With the 2015 establishment of Red Beard Restaurants, Gillespie is able to continue his day-to-day interactions with diners while also pursuing his creative visions and impacting the culinary landscape of the South. The company’s offices are located in Atlanta, Georgia. For more information, visit redbeardrestaurants.com.


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After 16 Years of Accolades and Accomplishments, Aria Makes Changes for the Future

For more information:
Emily Connolly or Morgan Dyches
 Melissa Libby & Associates
404-816-3068


AFTER 16 YEARS OF ACCOLADES AND ACCOMPLISHMENTS,
ARIA MAKES CHANGES FOR THE FUTURE
Unveiling on May 2 After One-Week Closure April 24 – May 1

ATLANTA (April 21, 2016) – After 16 years of topping the lists of Atlanta’s best restaurants, Aria is about to take it to the next level with a renovation that will turn heads and bring renewed excitement to a night out. On May 2, the new Aria will open with a fresh look, but there’s one thing that won’t change: Chef-owner Gerry Klaskala will still be in the kitchen preparing the food that critics have called “visually striking dishes that strike a tone of quiet seasonality and luxurious charm” and “colorful, flavorful, elegant food.” Aria diners have voted it “best American restaurant,” “best for business dining” and “most romantic night out.” Just this year, Aria received the highest cumulative score of any Atlanta restaurant from Zagat readers.

“Not many chefs in this city spend every evening in one restaurant,” said TV and radio host Mara Davis. “But Gerry has focused and perfected the experience at Aria, and that’s why it is a relevant restaurant to this day. I don’t know many people who wouldn’t count Aria as one of their top five favorite restaurants in Atlanta.”

“The redesign is an opportunity for us to reintroduce Aria,” explains Klaskala. “When we opened in 2000, our guests wore coats and ties and came in for a special occasion. These days, dining out is a part of our daily routine and restaurants can be the family table, the business desk or just a place to unwind. We’re reacting to that, providing somewhere new for our existing guests to enjoy and reaching out to a younger diner. What once was conservative will now be more playful.”

Stacey Kirby of Atlanta’s Seiber Design is overseeing the redesign of the restaurant. After months of planning and sourcing, the talented designers will take just a week (April 24 – May 1) to recreate Aria as a restaurant that will be as relevant in 2032 as it is today.

Kirby describes warm gray walls, bright canary yellow drapes and glowing backlit custom mirrors, along with gorgeous new leather banquettes. There’s an oversized antique mirror in the upstairs dining room and white oak tabletops along the banquettes in the main dining room.

Aria’s bar area will be opened up with seating for casual diners (no reservations required), spotlighted by a new signature white marble bar top along a rich walnut bar display to highlight an array of premium and small batch liquors.

“We’re taking away the formality and bringing more radiance and texture into the space,” explains Kirby. “We want the room to artfully complement and reflect the artistry of Gerry’s menu.”

While the building’s exterior will retain its trademark white hue, new black accents will be added to the door and windows. A new Aria sign has also been commissioned for installation out front. Diners wondering about a favorite piece of art or design element at Aria will have to wait for May 2 to see what is still there! Seats are sure to fill up quickly for the big reveal week, so eager diners are encouraged to make reservations now. Those in need of Mother’s Day plans will be thrilled to hear Aria is opening at 5 p.m. on Sunday, May 8 (a day they are usually closed).

Aria is located at 490 East Paces Ferry in Buckhead. Dinner is served Monday through Saturday beginning at 5:30 p.m. For more information, call 404-233-7673 or visit aria-atl.com.

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Wednesday, April 20, 2016

Taste of Atlanta Celebrates 15 Years of Droolable, Insta-Worthy Dishes this October 21-23 at Technology Square

For more information:
Emily Connolly or Morgan Dyches
Melissa Libby & Associates
404-816-3068

Taste of Atlanta Celebrates 15 Years of Droolable, Insta-Worthy Dishes This October 21-23 at Technology Square
Must-Do Festival for Food Lovers Includes Inaugural Race for the Taste 5K Run

ATLANTA (April 20, 2016) - Taste of Atlanta, the city’s must-do festival for food lovers, returns this fall to Midtown’s Technology Square October 21, 22 and 23 to celebrate 15 years of serving up tastes and sips from Atlanta’s favorite restaurants and cutting-edge chefs. $25 advance tickets for the 2016 festival go on sale June 28 at TasteofAtlanta.com.

The 15th annual Taste of Atlanta will feature more than 200 nibbles, noms, sips and samples from the city’s hottest, trendsetting restaurants. Participants from past years include Colletta, Gypsy Kitchen, One Eared Stag, Chai Pani, The El Felix, Rathbun's and many more.

“We’re thrilled to be celebrating 15 years of Taste of Atlanta in one of the country’s most vibrant cities for food,” says founder Dale DeSena. “Year after year, festivalgoers tell us they love the diversity of tastes offered, from waffles and burgers to global bites from India, Ethiopia, Spain, Italy and Vietnam. The festival has truly come to represent all of the families and professionals from across the world who call Atlanta home.”

In addition to Saturday and Sunday food adventures filled with drool-worthy samples from the city’s hottest young chefs, festivalgoers can also enjoy the VIP Grand Tasting Experience, chef demonstrations, interactive panel conversations and a special Friday night kickoff party.

“Over the years, the festival has become a fall tradition for friends and family to gather together and eat their way through the city, sampling the best dishes and interacting with chefs and mixologists from Atlanta’s top restaurants, all in a single weekend,” says DeSena.

Conveniently located near the North Avenue MARTA station and an Uber stop away at Tech Square, Taste of Atlanta will also offer a special room rate at the Georgia Tech Hotel & Conference Center.

More details on the 15th annual Taste of Atlanta festival will be released soon. In the meantime, visit TasteofAtlanta.com, follow updates on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram and sign up for A Bite of News newsletter.

Click here for photos.


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Tuesday, April 19, 2016

Atlanta Restaurants and Shops Serve Up Mother’s Day Meals and Gifts

For more information:
Emily Connolly or Morgan Dyches
Melissa Libby & Associates
404-816-3068
emilyc@melissalibbypr.com
morgan@melissalibbypr.com

ATLANTA RESTAURANTS AND SHOPS SERVE UP MOTHER’S DAY MEALS AND GIFTS
Treat the Special Mom in Your Life to a Feast on Sunday, May 8

ATLANTA (April 19, 2016) – Whether you’re looking to give the mother of your children a break from the kitchen or just want to say “thank you” to the woman who always made sure you were loved and cared for, Atlanta’s best restaurants have you covered. Be sure to make a reservation for Sunday, May 8 and spoil the special lady in your life with a bountiful brunch or a tasty treat at one of these fine establishments.

Downtown/Midtown

HOBNOB Neighborhood Tavern serves its regular brunch menu and $17 bottomless mimosas from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., along with live music from 1 to 4 p.m. and half-price wings from 4 to 10 p.m. It's also Family Sunday Funday, which means kids eat free with an adult entrée purchase from 4 to 10 p.m. 404-968-2288, hobnobatlanta.com.

Indulge your mother’s love of cooking with a gift from the Market at Bellina Alimentari, located at Ponce City Market. Choose from a range of balsamic vinegars, sea salts and olive oils, beautiful handmade pottery and aprons, specialty gift baskets or cooking classes. 800-540-1796, mercatodibellina.com.

At Sublime Doughnuts, the A-Town Cream and A-Town Mocha will be offered in the shape of an "M." Since all other doughnuts come in an "O" shape, you can easily spell out "MOM" in a sweet assortment she’ll love. 404-897-1801, sublimedoughnuts.com.

Twelve Eighty, located in the Woodruff Arts Center, has a Mother’s Day brunch with seatings at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. Cost is $34.95 for adults and $16.95 for children ages 4 to 10. 404-897-1280, woodruffcenter.org.

Decatur

Revival, chef Kevin Gillespie’s Decatur restaurant offering a fresh twist on family-style Southern classics, invites you and your mom to a Southern buffet featuring such favorites as lamb, ham and fried chicken—not to mention a dessert table brimming with sweets to savor! The restaurant is serving buffet-style only on Mother's Day from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. The cost is $39 for adults, $12 for children. 470-225-6770, revivaldecatur.com.

Buckhead

Surprise mom with Mother’s Day dinner at Aria. This Buckhead favorite, which is typically closed on Sundays, is opening its doors to offer chef/owner Gerry Klaskala’s avant-garde take on fine American cuisine starting at 5 p.m. 404-233-7673, aria-atl.com.

Gypsy Kitchen (404-939-9840) and The Southern Gentleman (404-939-9845) are hosting an epic joint celebration with the theme “Spain & Twain Await You.” Guests will enjoy a hot buffet served from the chef’s table, including a special selection of Mother’s Day desserts. Raw bar, salad, soup and hors d’oeuvre offerings are also available. Brunch features live music and is available from 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Cost is $54.95 per person for adults, $19.95 for kids 12 and under, and there is a complimentary confection for moms. sphospitality.com.

North Fulton

Aqua blue in Roswell is celebrating Mom’s big day in style with a sumptuous Mother’s Day brunch. From 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., treat her to $15 bottomless mimosas, a Bloody Mary bar and a brunch buffet featuring carving stations, made-to-order omelets, blue ribbon sushi, desserts and more. It's all available for $34.95 for adults and $9.95 for all children under 12. Can’t make it for brunch? Not to worry—the à la carte menu will be served from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. 770-643-8886, aquablueatl.com.

Milton’s Cuisine & Cocktails hosts special Mother’s Day brunch and dinner offerings with a side of gorgeous, historic scenery, thanks to its quaint 150-year-old farmhouse and 1930s cottage in beautiful Crabapple. Enjoy such delectable brunch options as chicken and waffles, French toast and prosciutto eggs Benedict, or opt for New York strip, sesame-crusted mountain trout or blackened Atlantic salmon for dinner. Cost is $32 for brunch and $45 for dinner. 770-817-0161, miltonscuisine.com.

Braselton

Take mom for a contemporary classic steakhouse experience at Cotton Calf Kitchen on Mother's Day, and she will receive a complimentary dessert and glass of Champagne. Sunday brunch is served 11 a.m. - 3 p.m., with dinner starting at 5 p.m.  706-684-0410, cottoncalf.com.

Multiple Locations

All four locations of Ray’s Restaurants know how to treat mom like a queen, whether it's a lavish buffet in elegant surroundings or a fun fiesta. Ray’s on the River (770-955-1187) in Sandy Springs serves its award-winning buffet, with breakfast, brunch and dinner options as the day progresses, from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. for $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. Cost is $37.95 for adults; $18.95 for children ages 5 to 10. Or take mom downtown to Ray’s in the City (404-524-9224) for a one-of-a-kind Mother’s Day brunch buffet from 9 a.m.-3:30 p.m. or regular à la carte dinner menu from 5 to 8 p.m. The buffet is $37.95 for adults and $18.95 for children ages 5 to 10. Finally, tell mom "gracias" with Mexican at Ray's Rio Bravo (770-612-2829), which is open 11 a.m. - 9 p.m. on Mother's Day. raysrestaurants.com.

All moms visiting any Willy's Mexicana Grill location May 7-8 receive a coupon for $5 off any order of $15 or more to use for a future visit through the end of the month. willys.com.

Of course, mom will be delighted with any of these Atlanta-area Sunday dining spots on Mother's Day or any other weekend:
  • Atkins Park Restaurant & Bar in Virginia-Highland serves brunch classics like deviled eggs and more stylish options such as chorizo and egg tacos. On May 8, there will be brunch specials like pesto breakfast strata and lamb pot pie, as well as a gift for moms. 404-876-7249, atkinspark.com.
  • The Big Ketch in Roswell and Buckhead reels in seafood-loving moms with such signature entrees as Creole shrimp and grits, island grouper and Coca-Cola BBQ salmon. thebigketch.com.
  • Marlow’s Tavern has 15 perfect neighborhood spots for classic American fare with an upscale twist. marlowstavern.com.
  • Seed Kitchen & Bar in East Cobb has a Sunday brunch menu of delicious dishes like smoked salmon, crab eggs Benedict and smoked brisket hash. Chef Doug Turbush will offer specials specifically for Mother's Day. 678-214-6888, eatatseed.com.

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Nosh Talks Brings Local Chefs and Farmers Together for Marriage Counseling


For more information:
Emily Connolly or Morgan Dyches
Melissa Libby & Associates
404-816-3068
emilyc@melissalibbypr.com
morgan@melissalibbypr.com

NOSH TALKS BRINGS LOCAL CHEFS AND FARMERS TOGETHER FOR MARRIAGE COUNSELING
Panel Discussion and Networking Opportunity Takes Place May 9 at Monday Night Brewing

ATLANTA (April 19, 2016) - Nosh Talks, the networking organization for Atlanta’s food and beverage industry, is bringing together some of the city’s most prominent chefs, and the farmers who provide them with fresh, locally grown ingredients, for a “Chefs & Farmers” panel discussion and networking opportunity. Promising a lively and informative conversation about the relationship between these two groups, the event is Monday, May 9 at Monday Night Brewing (670 Trabert Ave. NW) from 2 to 5 p.m.

Nosh Talks is partnering with Slow Food Atlanta to host the gathering, which includes light bites and signature beers from Monday Night Brewing. Available online through Eventbrite, tickets are $10 for students, $20 for industry members and $40 for non-industry guests.

The panel discussion takes place from 2:30 to 4:30 p.m. and features a lineup of Atlanta's best chefs, including Nick Leahy (Saltyard), Jarrett Steiber (Eat Me Speak Me) and Joey Ward (Gunshow). Farmers on the panel include Steve Whitmire (Brasstown Beef), Lauren Cox (Woodland Gardens), Charlotte Swancy (Riverview Farms) and Susan Pavlin (The Common Market Georgia). A networking session follows from 4:30 to 5 p.m.

“As farm-to-table continues to grow in popularity in Atlanta and across the country, farmers and chefs are inextricably linked—it’s very much like a marriage in some ways,” says Nosh Talks founder Karen Pagano. “This amazing panel provides a great opportunity to understand just how these two groups work together, to discuss the benefits and challenges of such a relationship and hopefully even devise ways to strengthen this unique partnership.”

About Nosh Talks
Nosh Talks is an Atlanta food and beverage networking organization by the industry and for the industry. Founded by local hospitality veteran Karen Pagano, Nosh Talks provides the city’s service workers a much-needed platform for fresh networking opportunities to celebrate victories and dish on the latest trends. For more information and to discover ways to get involved, go to noshtalks.com or follow Nosh Talks on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.


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Monday, April 18, 2016

Bellina Alimentari Ushers In Spring with Seasonal Updates

For more information:
 Emily Connolly or Morgan Dyches
Melissa Libby & Associates
404-816-3068

BELLINA ALIMENTARI USHERS IN SPRING WITH SEASONAL UPDATES
Ponce City Market Eatery Offers a Breath of Fresh Air with Patio Dining, Spring Menu Items and New Culinary Club Classes

ATLANTA (April 18, 2016) –  Tal Baum, owner of Bellina Alimentari, is excited to see the patio come to life with relaxed diners enjoying new seasonal menu items. The Ponce City Market Italian eatery recently launched a menu of spring cocktails and dishes, as well as new Market products and Culinary Club classes.

“I love everything about spring, especially the new fruits and vegetables it brings to our kitchen,” says Baum. “We’ve been working with our farm partners - Anson Mills, Brasstown Beef, Decimal Place, Many Fold Farm, Nature’s Harmony, Riverview Farms, Southern Swiss Dairy, Sweet Grass Dairy, The Spotted Trotter, The Turnip Truck and White Oak Pastures - to source the best local meat and produce from which to create simple, sumptuous meals that delight the senses this season.”

New spring menu favorites include the following:
  • Piselli e prosciutto - fresh tagliolini pasta with Spotted Trotter ham, fresh peas and cream sauce 
  • Minestrone - traditional Italian vegetable soup, garlic croutons, Parmigiano-Reggiano
  • Crudo salad - local greens, shaved fennel, croutons, Decimal Place feta, orange vinaigrette
  • Lasagne - fresh pasta, sautéed spinach and mushrooms , ricotta, béchamel, Parmigiano- Reggiano 
  • Farro Salad - Anson Mills farro piccolo, local greens, spring vegetables such as asparagus and peas with lemon vinaigrette
Top new picks on the drink menu include the bocciolo (blossom) cocktail with Lazzaroni, Aperol, Byrrh, lemon and orange flower water finish, and a 2014 Rosa del Golfo Negroamaro rosé.

Creative director Alice Fabi recommends a visit to Bellina's Market to purchase the Beltline Picnic Basket ($25), which includes Rami handmade breadsticks, olives, artichoke spread and red pesto.

“When I lived in Italy, there was nothing I loved better on a spring day than to pack a picnic basket. It’s such a lovely way to spend time with friends and loved ones. We’re also offering 10% off cheeses and cured meats available in our salumeria for those who purchase the picnic baskets,” Fabi notes.

The cook-it-yourself crowd will appreciate Bellina's newest Culinary Club offerings. Diners who have always wanted to learn how to make the perfect risotto will enjoy the Saffron Risotto Making Class ($45) on Tuesday, April 19 from 6 – 7:30 p.m.  Then on Wednesday, April 20 from 6:30 – 7:30 p.m., award-winning cheese maker Rebecca Williams will be on hand from Many Fold Farm to guide participants through a luscious evening of artisanal cheese and orange wine ($28). Participants can learn about other upcoming classes and register online.

About Bellina Alimentari
Bellina Alimentari, which loosely translates to "lovely specialty food store," was founded on the belief that every meal should be an amazing experience, and quality and ethics never need to be compromised in the pursuit of value. Italian food as a way of life means that each dish is tasty, fresh, whole and balanced. The menu at Bellina Alimentari changes seasonally to reflect the availability of produce from local farmers. Meat is sourced from farms where every animal is respected, treated humanely and pasture raised. Located at 675 Ponce de Leon Avenue NE, in the Central Food Hall of Ponce City Market, Bellina Alimentari is delicious, fair and affordable. For additional information and updates, visit bellina-alimentari.com, Facebook, Instagram and Twitter, or call 404-330-9933.

Click here for photos.
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Wednesday, April 13, 2016

Kevin Gillespie to Open Communion Friday, April 15 in Decatur

For more information:
Emily Connolly or Morgan Dyches
Melissa Libby & Associates
404-816-3068

Kevin Gillespie TO OPEN Communion FRIDAY, APRIL 15 in Decatur
German Beer Garden-Inspired Backyard at Revival Features a Food Truck,
Easy-Drinking Beverages, Tokens and Friendly Games of Cornhole

ATLANTA (April 12, 2016) – Just in time for the gorgeous spring weather, Atlanta chef, restaurateur, speaker and cookbook author Kevin Gillespie is opening Communion, a German beer garden-inspired backyard at his popular Revival restaurant in Decatur on Friday, April 15. Since opening in 2015, Revival has welcomed diners to its historic converted house as a part of the Gillespie extended family and served them family-style portions of fried chicken, meatloaf and Gillespie’s grandmother’s cornbread. With Communion, the chef is ready to welcome guests to his insanely fun backyard, down to the horseshoes and cornhole games.

This latest creative culinary brainstorm includes a food truck where guests can sample executive chef Andreas Müller's inspired takes on classic German beer garden snacks, including grilled rye with Kartoffelkäse, Bavarian-style pretzels with hot mustard and Obatzda and grilled sausages with sauerkraut, mustard and beef fat-fried potatoes. The drink list offers a selection of European-style draft and bottled session beers, Old World-style wines, punches and batched cocktails.

Backyard revelers won’t have to worry about keeping track of a tab, either. Upon arrival, guests purchase tokens - $5 each - from the Communion cashier and spend them on drinks and food truck purchases. Any unused tokens can be used on future visits. Most food truck snacks and drinks are 1-3 tokens, with server and bartender gratuities already factored into the price of each.

“In the truest sense of the word, Communion means ‘to share,’ and that is our guiding inspiration behind the new outdoor space,” explains Gillespie. “We love to treat our guests like family at Revival, extending that hospitality to cookouts in the front yard and supper on the side porch. Now, the backyard is our final addition. It's a place where friends and neighbors can meet and share a drink, a snack from our food truck or play a game of horseshoes together."

Communion opens Friday, April 15 at 4 p.m. behind Revival. Operating hours are Thursdays and Fridays beginning at 4 p.m. and at 11 a.m. on Saturdays and 12:30 p.m. on Sundays (weather permitting).

About Communion:
Communion 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 serves session beers, wine and cocktails as well as a small menu of food truck snacks. Casual entertainment such as horseshoes and cornhole is also provided, and reservations are not needed.

Revival and Communion are located at 129 Church Street in Decatur. For more information, call 470-225-6770 or visit revivaldecatur.com. Additional updates can be found on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

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Weekday Lunch Service Sets Sail at The Big Ketch Roswell April 18



For more information:

Emily Connolly or Morgan Dyches

Melissa Libby & Associates

404-816-3068




WEEKDAY LUNCH SERVICE SETS SAIL AT THE BIG KETCH ROSWELL APRIL 18

Roswell’s Favorite Beach House Extends Weekend Lunch to Monday-Sunday


ATLANTA (April 13, 2016) – The Big Ketch Roswell is launching weekday lunch service starting April 18. Guests can now visit Roswell’s local beach house for a mid-day seafood fix beginning at 11 a.m. seven days a week.

“We are excited to extend our lunch hours to offer fresh seafood to Roswell residents and businesses Monday-Thursday,” says executive chef Derek Dollar. “Whether you’re looking for a quick bite between meetings or a leisurely lunch with friends, we look forward to serving you soon.”

The Big Ketch Roswell uses the highest quality seafood available and locally-sourced ingredients when possible. Reel in mouthwatering menu items such as:

- Citrus seafood cobb salad

- Buffalo shrimp po’boy

- Ahi tuna banh mi

- TBK “greuben” (grouper Reuben)

- Mediterranean quinoa bowl

- Creole shrimp & grits

View the full menu here. The Big Ketch in Roswell is located at 1105 Canton Street and serves lunch and dinner seven days a week. Patio seating is now available. Hours of operation are Monday through Thursday, 11 a.m. - 10 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 11 a.m. - 11 p.m.; Sunday 11 a.m. - 9 p.m. For more information, call 770-993-5749 or visit thebigketch.com.

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Monday, April 11, 2016

Southern Proper Hospitality Joins the Fight Against Leukemia

For more information:
Emily Connolly or Morgan Dyches
Melissa Libby & Associates
404-816-3068
emilyc@melissalibbypr.com
morgan@melissalibbypr.com

SOUTHERN PROPER HOSPITALITY JOINS THE FIGHT AGAINST LEUKEMIA
Atlanta Restaurant Group Launches Fundraising Campaign - with Events and Cocktail Promotion - to Help Leukemia & Lymphoma Society

ATLANTA (April 11, 2016) - Southern Proper Hospitality, one of Atlanta’s leading hospitality groups, is partnering with the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS) to help eradicate leukemia, lymphoma and other life-threatening blood cancers. The partnership includes a specialty cocktail promotion, an upcoming dinner and golf tournament and a Man of the Year fundraising campaign. In honor of partner Chris Hadermann's grandfather, who lost his life to leukemia, the Southern Proper team invites Atlanta diners to join them in making a difference for this cause.

"My partners and I feel a responsibility to give back to the community that has been so good to us,” says Hadermann. “By doing our part, we can help fund therapies and treatments that are saving lives. The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society has been responsible for advances that have doubled, tripled and in some cases quadrupled the survival rate for some blood cancers.”

Now through June 11, all Southern Proper Hospitality restaurants  (Gypsy Kitchen, The Southern Gentleman, Smokebelly BBQ, The Big Ketch, The Blind Pig and Milton’s Cuisine & Cocktails) are featuring three special cocktails, with $1 from every drink sold going directly to the LLS. Tito’s Handmade Vodka plans to match every dollar donated. The three cocktails are:
  • Tito’s Mule - Tito’s vodka and fresh lime juice topped with ginger beer, garnished with a fresh mint sprig
  • Tito’s Strawberry Basil Martini - Tito’s vodka, strawberry basil syrup and  fresh lime juice, garnished with a strawberry slice and fresh basil leaf
  • ElderHound - Tito’s vodka, St. Germain Elderflower liqueur and fresh-squeezed grapefruit juice, topped with soda and garnished with a fresh mint sprig

Hadermann is also participating in LLS’ Man & Woman of the Year (MWOY) fundraising campaign, working to raise as much money for the organization as possible in a 10-week period. Those interested in lending their support can visit his Facebook page or donate at Hadermann’s personal MWOY page.

To further help LLS in its mission to eradicate blood cancer, Southern Proper is hosting a Gatsby Party dinner on Saturday, May 21 and a golf tournament on Monday, June 6. More information on these events will be released in the coming weeks.

About The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society
The mission of The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS) is to cure leukemia, lymphoma, Hodgkin's disease and myeloma and improve the quality of life of patients and their families. LLS exists to find cures and ensure access to treatments for blood cancer patients. We are the voice for all blood cancer patients, and we work to ensure access to treatments for all blood cancer patients.

About Southern Proper Hospitality
Southern Proper Hospitality is an entrepreneurial organization that values innovation, creativity and attention to detail. The mission of the team of industry leading professionals is to help shape the cultural fabric of Atlanta. Southern Proper provides a “short term escape” for diners by creating unique and distinct dining experiences that appeal to customers’ sense of adventure. Each restaurant offers a high energy, fun and entertaining atmosphere coupled with genuinely hospitable service and exceptional, high quality food.

Click here for photos. 

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Monday, April 4, 2016

Atlanta’s Top Chefs Collaborate for Charitable Dinner Honoring the Memory of Emily Cameron at Umi


For more information:
Emily Connolly or Morgan Dyches
Melissa Libby & Associates
404-816-3068
emilyc@melissalibbypr.com
morgan@melissalibbypr.com

ATLANTA’S TOP CHEFS COLLABORATE FOR ALL-STAR CHARITABLE DINNER
HONORING THE MEMORY OF EMILY CAMERON AT UMI
$10,000 Scholarship to Be Awarded at May 1 Event Benefitting The Giving Kitchen


WHAT:                      The second annual Atlanta chefs’ charity event will be hosted at Umi by an all-star lineup including Fuyuhiko and Lisa Ito, Gerry Klaskala, Joey Ward, Asha Gomez, Bruce Logue, Todd Ginsberg, Billy Allin, Todd Mussman, Landon Thompson, Adam Evans, Phillipe Haddad, Matt Weinstein and Christopher Maher.

Last year’s successful release party for the book "Atlanta Chef’s Table: Extraordinary Recipes from the Big Peach" sold out in under an hour and raised over $15,000 for The Giving Kitchen. Now author Kate Parham Kordsmeier and photographer Heidi Geldhauser have joined forces again to host this event to honor the late photographer Emily Cameron. 

                                   This year’s event will be an unforgettable evening of top chefs, many recently recognized by The New York Times, working together to prepare a multi-course dinner with wine pairings. Best of all, guests can enjoy a front-row view from communal tables overlooking the sushi bar, watching their favorite chefs team up for what promises to be one of the most outstanding meals of the year.

The evening will also include a $10,000 art scholarship awarded to a service industry worker pursuing a career in the arts, given in honor of Cameron. Artists interested in applying for the scholarship can find more information here. All additional proceeds from the event will benefit The Giving Kitchen, which provides crisis grants to members of Atlanta’s restaurant community facing unanticipated hardship.
                                   
WHEN:                       Sunday, May 1, 2016

WHERE:                       Umi
                                    3050 Peachtree Road, Atlanta, GA 30305
                                    404-841-0040
                                    umiatlanta.com

WHO:                         Featured chefs include:
·         Fuyuhiko and Lisa Ito, Umi
·         Gerry Klaskala, Aria
·         Joey Ward, Gunshow
·         Asha Gomez, Spice to Table
·         Bruce Logue, Boccalupo
·         Todd Ginsberg, The General Muir
·         Billy Allin, Cakes & Ale
·         Todd Mussman, Muss & Turner's
·         Landon Thompson, Cooks & Soldiers
·         Adam Evans, Brezza Cucina
·         Philippe Haddad, Cape Dutch
·         Matt Weinstein and Christopher Maher, ONE. midtown kitchen

DETAILS :                Tickets are $250 per person, which includes a 6 p.m. Champagne reception with passed appetizers and a signature cocktail by Gunshow called “The Emily” at Himitsu, followed by a family-style dinner with wine pairings at 7 p.m. at Umi. They are available online through Xorbia starting April 8.

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