Thursday, January 28, 2016

High Road Craft Ice Cream & Sorbet Selected as a 2016 Atlanta Metro Export Challenge Semi-Finalist


CONTACT:
Emily Connolly or Morgan Dyches
Melissa Libby & Associates 
404-816-3068


HIGH ROAD CRAFT ICE CREAM & SORBET SELECTED AS A 2016 ATLANTA METRO EXPORT CHALLENGE SEMI-FINALIST
High Road Craft Ice Cream & Sorbet Receives $5,000 Grant to Grow Exports

ATLANTA – High Road Craft Ice Cream & Sorbet is a recipient of a $5,000 grant and a semi-finalist in the inaugural Atlanta Metro Export Challenge, a grant competition powered by Chase which boosts support for small and medium-sized businesses looking to begin exporting or to increase their export programs.

Thirty-five companies from metro Atlanta were selected as semi-finalists and will each receive a reimbursement grant of up to $5,000 to apply toward expenses related to building export capacity and activities.

“We are extremely grateful for the opportunity and support given by the Metro Atlanta Chamber and the city of Atlanta,” says Keith Schroeder, founder and CEO of High Road. “We plan to use this generous grant to expand our export program and share our passion for high-quality ice cream and appreciation for food and culture.”

Nearly 70 companies, ranging in size from pre-revenue startups to small and established medium-sized businesses, applied for the 35 available grants. The semi-finalists represent a wide array of industries, including traditional and advanced manufacturing, professional services, food and beverage, apparel and technology companies. Women-owned and minority-owned businesses are among the semi-finalists. Also, grant awardees represent 12 different counties, eight of which are within the metro Atlanta 29-county region.
To see the full list of grant awardees, click here.

High Road Craft Ice Cream & Sorbet will have a chance to win additional prize money later this summer. Each of the 35 semi-finalists must utilize the grant funds during the first half of 2016 and show export success to be invited back for the second round of competition this summer at Pitch Day – a Shark Tank-style pitch session before a panel of judges. The semi-finalists must share their export success and future plans for export development for a chance to win additional prize money. At Pitch Day, companies will present their exportable product or service, their export success with the initial grant, and a business plan detailing how they will use additional grant funds to increase exports. The top three companies will receive $20,000 (1st Place), $10,000 (2nd Place), and $5,000 (3rd Place).

The Atlanta Metro Export Challenge will distribute a total of $210,000 over the course of the competition. This competition is one of the key components of the Atlanta Metro Export Plan (MEP), an initiative launched in June 2015 to stimulate economic growth in the region and create quality jobs through exports. The grants competition aims to encourage area companies to export and drive business growth by increasing international sales of local products and services.

The program was created through a grant from JPMorgan Chase as part of the firm’s ongoing work to promote global competitiveness in metros around the country.

”The more we support small businesses efforts to broaden their opportunity, the stronger our economy becomes, and exports are key to meaningful, sustainable growth,” said David Balos, market leader for JPMorgan Chase in Georgia.

Promoting participation from small businesses will help boost Metro Atlanta’s exports—right now, the region ranks 64th among the nation’s largest metros in export intensity, despite being the 14th largest exporter in the U.S. Exports are shown to add jobs to regional economies. The International Trade Administration reports that for every $1 billion generated in exports, an additional 5,800 new jobs are created.

Exports are shown to add jobs to regional economies. The International Trade Administration reports that for every $1 billion generated in exports, an additional 5,800 new jobs are created. With 95 percent of the world’s consumers located outside the U.S., the potential for growing exports is tremendous.

The Atlanta MEP is being implemented by multiple organizations, including the Metro Atlanta Chamber, the Georgia Department of Economic Development and the City of Atlanta working in partnership with several other regional and local economic development agencies, public and private organizations. The MEP is the first phase of Atlanta’s participation in the Global Cities Initiative (“GCI”), a joint project of the Brookings Institution and JPMorgan Chase that aims to help leaders in U.S. metropolitan areas reorient their economics toward greater engagement in world markets.

About High Road Craft Ice Cream & Sorbet
Founded as a group of chefs making ice cream for other chefs to serve in restaurants, hotels and resorts, Keith Schroeder started High Road Craft Ice Cream & Sorbet in 2010, focusing on ice cream with great flavor and luscious texture. After gaining a large fan base, High Road opened a facility in Marietta where the team of chefs and “foodies” continue to churn out creative and delicious flavors using local, high-quality ingredients, grass-fed dairy that is pasteurized in-house and mix-ins that are made from scratch. High Road Craft Ice Cream can be found in grocery stores and specialty food stores in the United States, Mexico and Thailand. highroadcraft.com

###

Wednesday, January 27, 2016

Share Love through Food at Bellina Alimentari

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

SHARE LOVE THROUGH FOOD AT BELLINA ALIMENTARI
Italian Favorite at Ponce City Market Celebrates Amore with February Classes, Gifts
And Special Valentine's Weekend Menu

ATLANTA (Jan. 22, 2016) –With Valentine’s Day rapidly approaching, Tal Baum, owner of Bellina Alimentari, is taking her responsibilities seriously to help ramp up romance by showing customers how to “Share Love Through Food” in February.From chocolate-making classes and intimate dinners for two to gift packages filled with easy-to-prepare pasta dishes and sweet after-dinner treats, Baum believes she has something for everyone in her Wine Bar, Culinary Club and Market.

“There’s an expression in Italian – il cibo è l’essenza della vita,” Baum says. “It means food is the essence of life. It’s the essence of love as well, and we all celebrate it differently. Some people want to experience the joy of preparing food together, while others prefer to be pampered and waited on. Whatever our guests choose, we want it to be fantastic.”

Diners who want the Valentine’s Day fuss without the muss can take advantage of the hearty special offered Feb. 12-14 at Bellina's Wine Bar. The menu begins with a bubbly Prosecco toast and continues with a selection of local and Italian artisanal cheeses and meats.  Then, couples can twirl their forks into each other’s plates with a taste of two signature pasta dishes.  The festivities end on a sweet note with decadent chocolate bread pudding. This special menu is $38 per person, add wine and cocktail pairings for $30 per person. It is available in addition to the regular menu.

Bellina Alimentari's Culinary Club is offering special classes throughout February. These include the following:
  • Cacao Chocolate Workshop on Tuesday, Feb. 9 from 6 p.m. – 7 p.m. Local craft chocolate producer Cacao Atlanta will not only be talking about sourcing and producing chocolate, they’ll be sharing their company’s sweet inspirations with guests. ($30 per person) 
  • Valentine's Chef on Wednesday, Feb. 10 from 6 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. Chef will teach how to impress your loved one with a romantic dinner for two. This hands-on cooking class will enable you to prepare a three-course meal and signature cocktail that can be easily recreated at home for an unforgettable Valentine’s Day. Pasta tasting follows. ($48 per person)
  • Pasta Date Night on Thursday, Feb. 11 from 6 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.  Explore romantic pastabilities at this hands-on cooking class. Guests will learn how easy it is to make fresh pasta at home. After a pasta tasting, guests can take home their creations. ($80 per couple)

In Bellina Alimentari's Market, Baum encourages customers to take their sweet time studying the shelves lined with fine Italian chocolates, spreadable chocolates, balsamic vinegars, biscotti and more.  Affordable favorites include Dragées - flavorful nuts and spices coated in chocolate ($12); and Cantucci - Italian almond biscotti biscuit cookies ($12).

Other thoughtful Valentine's Day gifts for loved ones available in-store and online at mercatodibellina.com include:
  • Date Night Box - An easy-to-cook dinner for two; all ingredients needed for the perfect match. ($32)
  • Truffle Dinner Date - Melt your cares and truffles away with crunchy savory biscuits with pure white truffle cream. Then serve your tagliatelle pasta, adding just-melted butter and Parmigiano Reggiano cheese. End your dinner with indulgent chocolate bites and chocolate coated coffee beans. ($58)
  • Dolce Vita - A choice of Italian sweet treats. ($75)

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.

###

JP Atlanta Now Open in Downtown Atlanta

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


JP ATLANTA NOW OPEN IN DOWNTOWN ATLANTA
Fine Dining Destination From Visionary John C. Portman Opens Downtown

ATLANTA (Jan. 22, 2016) - The excitement of mid-century Atlanta is reborn at JP Atlanta, where Chef Julio Delgado reimagines 1960s sophistication for a modern audience. When diners experience JP Atlanta’s one-of-a-kind circular bar or dramatic dining room, chances are the restaurant’s creator, architect-developer John C. Portman, Jr., will have personally selected the cocktail coupe or etched highball glass they hold in their hand. The Atlanta icon has designed every detail of Downtown Atlanta’s new destination restaurant, the crown jewel of his reimagined 230 Peachtree building.

JP Atlanta, the creation of architect-developer John C. Portman, Jr., embraces the style and sophistication of The Midnight Sun, the legendary restaurant he opened in Peachtree Center almost 50 years ago that redefined mid-century Atlanta’s standard for fine dining. Now, this transformative addition to the city’s center breaks the conventional rules of downtown dining once again, offering a bar made for socializing after work or for a late-night cocktail, and a dining room that appeals to both visitors and Atlanta natives. JP Atlanta is a celebration of the senses where the artwork-focused interior design, the energy of the staff and the presentation of food and cocktails converge to create a wholly artistic experience.

The Midnight Sun epitomized cuisine, culture and cosmopolitan flair in a fine dining experience like nothing else in Atlanta. Now, with the opening of JP Atlanta, refined cuisine and contemporary elegance have once again become one, bringing downtown dining to a new level of sophistication. 

“This restaurant breaks all the rules," says Portman. "But more importantly, it creates a place to see and be seen downtown – a bar where people socialize after work and into the evening, and a dining room that appeals not only to visitors but also to Atlanta natives.”

Executive chef Julio Delgado, a Ritz-Carlton veteran most recently engaged as executive chef of Château Élan Winery & Resort, brings a modern, global interpretation of the Midnight Sun experience to the breakfast, lunch, dinner and late-night menus of JP Atlanta. 

"We have reinterpreted classic dishes from the 1960s using fresh, local ingredients that showcase the seasons," says Delgado. "It's creative American cuisine prepared with classic cooking techniques, but our plating and presentation is designed to ‘wow’ our guests."

Signature dishes on the JP Atlanta menu include the following:  
  • Beef short rib “bourguignonne,” rutabaga purée, glazed heirloom carrots
  • Chicken “à la king," confit sweet peppers, Comté cheese-chives biscuits
  • Roasted bone marrow, lump crab cake crust, tarragon-fennel juice
  • Braised and grilled octopus, citrus-crusted salsify, black olive, Meyer lemon oil
  • Slow-braised lamb neck, lemon-ricotta cavatelli, eggplant-caper compote

"The dishes we're serving in the bar elevate the typical bar menu and match the innovation of our cocktail program," Delgado says. "Whether it's the pimento cheese crisp with quail egg and bacon jam, or Georgia peanut hummus with radish chips and lavash bread, our bar menu tells a familiar story with surprising twists." 

The handcrafted cocktail program harkens back to an era when only the freshest ingredients and finest liquors were used. It was created by Blue Orbit Consulting's beverage director, Eric Simpkins. In another nod to the 1960s, JP Atlanta’s signature cocktail is a half-dozen creative homages to the Old-Fashioned, including:
  • Draper Redux, named for a certain “Mad Man,” featuring rye, bitters, soda, sugar, orange and Luxardo cherries
  • Diego’s Dram, a south of the border variation with reposado tequila, crème de cacao, xocolati mole bitters and sesame

“We really wanted to focus on a return to the cocktail hour,” explains JP Atlanta restaurant and bar concept co-creator Ray Camillo, founder and principal of Atlanta’s Blue Orbit Consulting. “In 1965, you had that last gasp of creativity when cocktails were still completely authentic before all the mass-produced mixers and lower-quality shortcuts became the industry standard.”

A carefully selected collection of New and Old World bottles populates JP Atlanta’s extensive wine list, along with a few handcrafted beer selections.

JP Atlanta’s signature steel and wood bar is the first thing guests encounter just past the architect’s glass grand staircase at 230 Peachtree as they step inside the restaurant filled with Portman’s trademark designs and art in several mediums. The creative interior design is a celebration of the senses which, combined with the energy of the staff and innovative presentation of food and cocktails, functions as art in motion.  

JP Atlanta is located at 230 Peachtree Street. Valet parking is available, and self-parking at 219 Peachtree and the AmericasMart Atlanta parking deck is validated for two hours. For more information, visit http://www.jp-atlanta.com or call 404-523-7600. 

Click here for photos (Credit: Ben Rose Photography).


###

Friday, January 22, 2016

Indulge in Romance at Atlanta-Area Restaurants this Valentine’s Day

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

INDULGE IN ROMANCE AT ATLANTA-AREA RESTAURANTS THIS VALENTINE’S DAY
Wine and Dine Your Sweetheart with a Meal to Remember

ATLANTA (Jan. 22, 2016) – 'Tis the season of love once more. Roses and heart-shaped chocolate boxes fill the store shelves, and an abundance of options for romantic dining arise. Rather than sift through lists of potential destinations, check out these Atlanta-area restaurants for the perfect occasion to show your loved ones how special they are. Be sure to call the restaurants early for reservations!  Please note, prices listed are not inclusive of tax and gratuity.

Valentine's Weekend Specials

In Roswell, enjoy a three-course prix fixe dinner menu available Feb. 12-14 at Aqua blue for $55 per person. Feast on grilled New York strip and coconut shrimp or seafood stuffed grouper with lobster, shrimp and scallops. The regular dinner menu is also available. 770-643-8886; aquablueatl.com.  

Article 14, the stylish American bistro in Midtown, has cooked up a special menu to serve Feb. 12-14 alongside a limited regular menu. Divine dishes include citrus risotto with diver scallops and roasted beef tenderloin with red wine sauce. 404-443-8432; article14.com.

Atkins Park Restaurant & Bar in Virginia-Highland features a delicious chef's menu Feb. 12-14.  Selections include crab cakes, lobster tail & filet mignon, and chocolate crème brûlée. 404-876-7249; atkinspark.com.

A Ponce City Market favorite, Bellina Alimentari has a special menu waiting at the Wine Bar between Feb. 12-14. Start with a glass of Prosecco, then local and Italian artisanal cheeses and cured meats, a taste of two signature pasta dishes and decadent chocolate bread pudding for $38 per person. Wine and cocktail pairings are available for an additional $30 per person. 404-330-9933; bellina-alimentari.com. Culinary Club classes and gifts in the Market also set the stage for amore.

Glenn's Kitchen will put a little love in your heart and stomach with its Valentine's Weekend specials. Indulge in lobster chowder ($8), a duo of filet mignon and jumbo sea scallop ($48) and homemade sticky toffee pudding ($8). 404-469-0700; glennskitchenatl.com.

Travel through Spain with Gypsy Kitchen’s special Valentine’s Weekend menu presented by executive chef Matthew Ridgway. A la carte dishes include grilled Spanish octopus, lobster & seafood paella for two and churros with milk chocolate sauce. 404-939-9840; gypsykitchenatl.com.

Newly opened JP Atlanta is now on the Downtown Atlanta scene with a sophisticated "Taste of Wild Flowers" menu served Feb. 12-14 in place of its regular dinner menu. Selections include Kumamoto oyster, seared diver scallops, lavender-crusted lamb loin and unique desserts like sweet potato doughnuts with brown butter ice cream. The meal is $65 per person. 404-523-4004; jp-atlanta.com.

Cupid and executive chef Derek Dollar are cooking up something delicious at Milton’s Cuisine & Cocktails in Historic Crabapple. Available Feb. 13-14 in addition to the regular menu, the prix fixe dinner menu is $65 per person and includes choice options such as beef tartare bruschetta, lobster and shrimp pappardelle and decadent desserts. 770-817-0161; miltonscuisine.com.

Ray's on the River (770-995-1187), Ray's at Killer Creek (770-649-0064), and Ray's in the City (404-524-9224) are showcasing prix fixe menus on Feb. 13 from 4-11 p.m. alongside a limited regular dinner menu. Dinner on Feb. 14 is served from 5-10 p.m. and features the prix fixe menus only.  The coursed menus are $60 and $75 per person and feature treats such as braised short rib ravioli, horseradish-encrusted black grouper and twin lobster tails. Sunday also includes a Valentine's brunch buffet from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. raysrestaurants.com.

Saltwood Charcuterie & Bar has a prix fixe menu for Feb. 12-14 alongside the regular a la carte dinner menu. With three courses and a dessert, the menu includes choices such as braised duck tortellini and a 6-oz charred grill filet for $55 per person. The Loews Atlanta Hotel is sweetening the pot with a special Valentine's Day bundle called the “Love Story Getaway.” The package includes a beautiful in-room rose petal service, complimentary chocolate-covered strawberries with Champagne, valet parking and a $50 food and beverage credit. Breakfast in bed, anyone? The deal is good between Feb. 1-21, and reservations must be made 48 hours in advance online. 404-745-5000; saltwoodatlanta.com.

Seed Kitchen & Bar celebrates with $49 per person prix fixe menus and specials on Friday and Saturday evening in addition to the regular dinner menu. Next door at Stem Wine Bar, enjoy Valentine-themed specials those nights as well. The romance heats up on Sunday at Seed with brunch specials and a Valentine's Day dinner menu for $75 per person alongside $30 optional wine pairings. The regular dinner menu will not be offered on Sunday. 678-214-6888; eatatseed.com; stemwinebar.com.

Buckhead’s ‘cue hotspot, Smokebelly BBQ, is dishing out live music Feb. 13-14, as well as $3 draft beer, $5 well drinks and $6 glasses of wine. 404-848-9100; smokebellybbq.com.

For a trip outside of the Perimeter, The Big Ketch in Roswell has a few extra-special options from the chef Feb. 13-14. For $49 per person, choose the Valentine three-course menu with dishes such as crispy ahi tuna rolls, almond crusted red grouper and chocolate bread pudding. The full dinner menu is also available. 770-993-5749; thebigketch.com.

Be a gent and bring your sweetie to The Southern Gentleman on Feb. 13-14. They’re offering a four-course menu including sweet & salty razor clams, petite filet and wild rice risotto from executive chef Matthew Ridgway. Grab your seat for $65 per person. 404-939-9845; thesoutherngentlemanatl.com.

Valentine's Day Dining

Located in the heart of Buckhead, Aria is typically closed on Sundays but will open with a special four-course menu from 5 to 9 p.m. Enjoy chef/owner Gerry Klaskala's avant-garde take on fine American cuisine for $95 per person. The restaurant will be closed on Monday, Feb. 15. 404-233-7673; aria-atl.com.

Chef/owner Stephen McGuffin invites lovebirds to come check out his new Café Highlands.  A four-course menu of progressive American cuisine includes a pre-entrée sorbet and a glass of Champagne for $35 per person. 404-698-3509; cafehighlands.com.

Gunshow is hosting regular service for Valentine's Day. Sweethearts can enjoy food for sharing from executive chef Joey Ward and his team of chefs at Kevin Gillespie's Glenwood Park restaurant. 404-380-1886; gunshowatl.com.

Whether attached or flying solo, there is a Valentine's special waiting for you at Midtown’s HOBNOB Neighborhood Tavern. Enjoy brunch and bottomless mimosas from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. with live music between 1 and 4 p.m. Dinner is laid-back from 4-10 p.m. with two pizzas or burgers and a bottle of wine or four-beer bucket and dessert for $59. 404-968-2288; hobnobatlanta.com.

An Atlanta tradition since 1979, Johnny's Hideaway favors more of a party for Valentine's Day with drinking and dancing featuring live music from Band X and no cover charge for ladies before 10 p.m. 404-233-8026; johnnyshideaway.com.

Tell your Valentine to "meet me at Marlow's." Each Marlow's Tavern location will feature a special three-course prix fixe menu for $35 per person, as well as their regular American tavern fare served in a modern atmosphere. marlowstavern.com.

Valentine's Getaways

What says Valentine's Day better than chocolate and a romantic trip to New York City? James Beard Award-winning author and Atlantan Keith Schroeder of High Road Craft Ice Cream & Sorbet is joining craft chocolatiers Matthew Silverman and Matthew Piekarski from Hexx Kitchen+Bar in Las Vegas for "Bewitched! A Valentine's Eve Dinner" at The James Beard House in NYC.  Taking place Feb. 13 at 7 p.m., the evening will feature new takes on classics like the Hexx barrel-aged chocolate Manhattan and food options including braised beef brisket empanadas. Tickets are $130 for James Beard members and $170 for the general public. For reservations, call the James Beard House at 212-627-2308; jamesbeard.org.

Closer to home, enjoy a relaxing and romantic getaway evening to White Oak Pastures in Bluffton, Georgia, on Saturday, Feb. 13 from 5:30 - 9 p.m. The four-course dinner includes appetizer, salad, choice of entrée, dessert and Champagne. Entrée options include grass-fed beef filet, herb-crusted rack of lamb, and garlic & herb marinated chicken breast from chef Reid Harrison. Cost is $85 per couple, $45 for singles (Champagne not included). 229-641-2081; whiteoakpastures.com.   

A Sweet Treat

Crush on something sweet from High Road Craft Ice Cream & Sorbet. Get $14 off any online store collection purchase now through Feb. 14. Use the discount code “VALENTINE” at checkout. Boxed chocolates are a thing of the past. Say “I love you” with High Road’s Valentine’s Day Romance Collection, featuring 8 pints of luscious ice cream and sorbet ($139). Special flavors include strawberry vanilla, aztec chocolate, vanilla fleur de sel, mixed berries and prosecco sorbet. Celebrating with a group? Share the love with friends and family with a party in a box. One 5 liter pan feeds up to 20 people and toppings, bowls and spoons are included ($120). 678-701-7623; highroadcraft.com.


Stop by Sublime Doughnuts in West Midtown Feb. 12-14 for a sweet treat for your sweetie. Chef/owner Kamal Grant is whipping up a batch of limited edition heart-shaped doughnuts meant for sharing. 404-897-1801; sublimedoughnuts.com.

###


Wednesday, January 20, 2016

Winning Ways to Tackle Your Hunger During the Big Game on Feb. 7

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


WINNING WAYS TO TACKLE YOUR HUNGER DURING THE BIG GAME ON FEB. 7
Atlanta Restaurants Score With a “Super” Roster of Football-Friendly Favorites

ATLANTA (Jan. 20, 2016) – Watching the year’s biggest game can fuel a stadium-sized appetite. No matter what kind of football fare you crave, these Atlanta restaurants have all the options covered with a championship lineup of food and drink specials, catering packages and pigskin parties. Here are the best ways to celebrate the NFL championship on Sunday, Feb. 7:

Atkins Park Restaurant & Bar in Virginia-Highland is fielding an MVP carry-out menu of munchies. Treat your crew to 2 dozen jumbo chicken wings, served confit or smoked in a Big Green Egg, with your choice of sweet chili, spicy BBQ or Atkins Park’s classic wing sauce (ranch, blue cheese and veggies included) for $30. Other winning plays include 12 pulled pork sliders; housemade guacamole, salsa and tortilla chips; and a vegetable crudité platter with ranch dressing, each $25. 404-876-7249; atkinspark.com.

FLIP burger boutique has drawn up a special to-go menu sure to bowl you over. Order your favorite sliders, including the classic stack ($43 for 10), turkey ($43 for 10) or the rBQ with angus beef, pulled brisket and coleslaw ($45 for 10). Don’t forget appetizing starters and sides like baked beans ($45 feeds four to six fans), braised brisket empanadas, FLIP chips and kale slaw ($30 for four to six). Customers are strongly encouraged to order ahead of time to guarantee availability. FLIP will close at 5 p.m. on Sunday, Feb. 7, so orders must be picked up by 4:30 p.m. flipburgerboutique.com.

HOBNOB Neighborhood Tavern is offering a slate of “Super Sunday” specials for dine-in, to-go or delivery (via Grubhub.com). Hungry football fans can order 50 chicken wings for $49 and get 25 pretzels and beer cheese dip free. An order of 24 chicken tenders is accompanied by 12 free pretzels for $69, and HOBNOB’s party-size chili, which feeds 12 people for $79, also comes with 12 free pretzels. To-go orders must be placed 24 hours in advance by calling 404-968-2288. hobnobatlanta.com.

Johnny’s Hideaway will be broadcasting the game in full house sound. A live DJ begins spinning Johnny’s signature mix of classics and contemporary dance hits immediately afterward. 404-233-8026; johnnyshideaway.com.

If wings is your thing, Milton's Cuisine & Cocktails has the perfect to-go option to watch the big game at home. They're offering 50 smoked wings and white chocolate chip brownie bites for $50 plus tax. Flavors include traditional medium, espresso rubbed with pomegranate molasses or Kentuckyaki with sesame seeds. Order by February 5 at 5 p.m. Available for pick up on February 7 from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. miltonscuisine.com 

Smokebelly BBQ is serving up a savory selection of specials for barbecue-loving football fanatics. Entertaining at home? Now through Feb. 7, order 2 lbs. of pulled pork, a 1-quart side, 1 pint of sauce and a package of slider buns to feed four of your hungriest friends for $40, or take home a platter of 25 wings with celery, carrots and sauce for $20 per platter. Enjoy the game at Smokebelly and take advantage of specials including 25 wings and a bucket of five beers for $35, $3 draft specials and $5 well drinks. Also through Feb. 7, dine-in customers can register to win a 50” TV courtesy of American Born Moonshine. The winner will be announced during the third quarter of the big game; winner must be present to win. 404-848-9100; smokebellybbq.com.

Atlanta’s ultimate sports bar offers the ultimate viewing party with more than 70 TVs to follow the action from every angle. Catch the game at STATS with up to five of your friends (six people total) in the main dining area for $250, or enjoy delicious draft beer right at your fingertips at one of the restaurant’s tap tables (seats six to eight) for $500. For a VIP experience, kick back in one of four semi-private suites ($500 for up to 10 people) or super suites ($750 for up to 15). Your ticket purchase includes your reservation and the food and beverage minimum for your desired section. To reserve a spot today, click here. 404-885-1472; statsatl.com.

Tin Lizzy’s Cantina offers catering for those who want to enjoy delicious FlexMex cuisine during the big game. Options include the taco bar ($9 per person), the stacked taco bar ($11 per person), chicken tender platters ($4 per person) and Tin Lizzy’s FlexMex salad ($2.50 per person). Order at least 24 hours in advance. Delivery is free within a 10-mile radius; $100 minimum order for delivery. Email catering@tinlizzys.com for all catering inquiries. tinlizzyscantina.com.

Twin Smokers BBQ has a special Feb. 7 package for fans of savory, slow-cooked barbecue. It includes a choice of three meats (1 lb. each), three 1-quart sides, cornbread, BBQ sauces and sweet tea or lemonade for $75. This special is also available for the AFC and NFC championship games on Sunday, Jan. 24. The restaurant offers drop-off catering for parties of 25 or more, with 48 hours’ advance notice (delivery fee may apply). 404-698-4707; twinsmokersbbq.com.


###

Thursday, January 7, 2016

Atlanta-Area Restaurants Turn New Year’s Resolutions into Reachable Goals with Healthy Menu Items


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

Atlanta-AREA restaurants turn new year’s resolutions
into reachable goals with healthy menu items
Tasty Options for Those Resolving to Eat Better in 2016

ATLANTA (Jan. 6, 2016) – After indulging in the holiday season’s abundance of treats, many of us are looking for healthier dining options to kick off 2016. Read on for ways some of the Atlanta area's best restaurants are rewarding nutrition-minded eaters with exciting yet healthful dishes.

Midtown/Virginia-Highland/Westside

10th & Piedmont reminds Midtown diners of bathing suit season with coconut scallop ceviche with sea scallops, coconut, cilantro, spicy pepper and avocado served with tortilla chips for dipping ($7.50). 10thp.com

At Atkins Park Restaurant & Bar in Virginia-Highland, herb-roasted Springer Mountain Farms chicken with dried cranberry and Brussels leaf salad, creamed corn and mashed potatoes is reminiscent of a holiday feast without all the fat ($16). atkinspark.com

Bellina Alimentari’s insalata di bietola brings roasted beets, escarole hearts and ricotta salata with red wine vinegar dressing ($8) to diners looking for a lighter meal at Ponce City Market. bellina-alimentari.com

Café Highlands puts a Southern spin on a traditional Middle Eastern favorite with black-eyed pea falafel, cucumber, fried green tomato and za’atar-yogurt dressing in a warm pita ($9). cafehighlands.com

HOBNOB Neighborhood Tavern’s Mother Nature salad helps keep waistlines in check with quinoa, cucumber, edamame, avocado, garbanzo beans, tomatoes, pickled onions, cranberries and candied pecan topped with HOBNOB basil vinaigrette ($11.50). hobnobatlanta.com

Ormsby's keeps hungry guests in a healthy state of mind with an heirloom beet salad featuring arugula, Brussels sprouts and hearts of palm in a citrus vinaigrette ($9). As a bonus, the Westside tavern’s wide variety of games like darts, bocce ball and shuffleboard prevents patrons from becoming too sedentary. ormsbysatlanta.com

Saltwood Charcuterie & Bar at the Loews Atlanta Hotel serves up exotic flavors in place of unhealthy fare, offering Moroccan couscous with Israeli pearls, squash and harissa broth ($14). saltwoodatlanta.com
  
Guy Wong's Vietnamese fare at Le Fat is packed with fresh fruits and vegetables and flavored with fresh herbs so hungry guests can feel satisfied without breaking their diet or the bank. Health-conscious diners can nosh on summer rolls with shrimp, pork, herbs, vermicelli and peanut sauce ($6); papaya salad with green papaya, mango, apple, crispy shallot, peanut brittle and Thai pepper vinaigrette ($10); kale salad with mango chickpea dressing, toasted coconut, sliced almonds and radish ($7); or a chilled vermicelli bowl that includes the choice of sliced pork, chicken, shrimp or lemongrass beef along with an herb salad, cucumber, pickled daikon and carrot, crushed peanut and a crispy spring roll ($16). lefatatl.com

Buckhead

At Gypsy Kitchen, guests can enjoy tapas and snacks while still maintaining a svelte figure. Pickled beets with crisped shallots and ebi ($6); grilled Spanish octopus with saffron-potato mousseline and shallot sofrito ($15); roasted cauliflower and quinoa salad with smoked paprika, almonds and argan oil ($6); and marinated octopus salad with citrus and fennel($8) are a few of the most healthful options. gk-atl.com

Dining at a BBQ joint doesn’t have to derail diet attempts. Smokebelly BBQ's menu features “tapas on the lighter side” such as piquillo pepper hummus served with carrots, celery and house-made crackers ($6.50); gluten-free and vegan jalapeño cornbread cakes with sweet corn edamame succotash ($7.25); and chilled farro and green bean salad with smoked almonds, diced cucumbers and mint yogurt dressing ($4.95). smokebellybbq.com

The Southern Gentleman's salad selection offers Southern-inspired gastropub fare free from guilt. The restaurant’s lunch menu features a Boston Bibb lettuce salad with pickled shrimp, red onion and green goddess dressing ($12) as well as a roasted kabocha squash salad with petite arugula, Georgia pecans and onion vinaigrette ($10). thesoutherngentlemanatl.com

Multiple Locations

Guests at FLIP burger boutique can still get a unique culinary experience minus the bun; any of the restaurant’s burgers can be served as lettuce wraps for a healthier alternative to bread. FLIP’s two Atlanta locations – Buckhead and Westside – also offer a raw tuna tartare with Asian pear, pine nuts, soy dressing, wasabi mayo, compressed veggies, mango sphere and avocado puree ($14); a turkey burger with Monterey Jack cheese, crushed avocado, pomegranate ketchup, tomato and alfalfa sprouts ($8); and the FLIP salad with seared chicken, Bibb lettuce, arugula, romaine, pickled veggies, sliced radishes, grape tomatoes, avocado, dill and green goddess dressing ($10). flipburgerboutique.com

The Big Ketch Saltwater Grill in Buckhead and Roswell gets guests beach ready with a selection of fresh fish entrées (blackened or grilled) ranging from salmon to ahi tuna to grouper ($15.95-$24.95), as well as a tropical salad with key lime mango dressing and a Mediterranean quinoa bowl. thebigketch.com

Willy's Mexicana Grill may be known for burritos, but the restaurants’ Southwest chicken salad is equally satisfying and includes char-grilled chicken, black beans, pico de gallo salsa, corn salsa, Jack cheese, homemade guacamole and tortilla strips ($7.75). willys.com


Click here for food photos!

###

Tuesday, January 5, 2016

Savor Sunday Brunch at The Southern Gentleman

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

Savoring Brunch with The Southern Gentleman
Popular Buckhead eatery turns lazy Sundays into a celebratory soirée

ATLANTA (Jan.  5, 2016) –The Southern Gentleman has added brunch to its already impressive dining options.  After recently introducing new lunch and dinner menus, executive chef Matthew Ridgway set his sights on a culinary trifecta to help diners bring the weekend to a tasteful close. The Buckhead restaurant's new Sunday brunch hours are 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.

“Sunday’s the day when people typically allow themselves a little more time to relax,” Ridgway says.  “What’s better than a lazy afternoon brunch catching up with family or good friends? My kitchen team and I have put together a brunch menu that appeals to everyone’s palate."

Samples from the new brunch menu at The Southern Gentleman include:

Smoked trout rillettes – on griddled benne seed toast, crushed field pea hummus, mustard anglaise, smoked trout caviar

Crispy anadama toffee waffles – caramelized bananas, rum and vanilla syrup, whipped butter

Pimento cheese-Dixie bacon omelet – traditional French- style soft omelet cooked the right way, home-fried potatoes with mustard and cayenne

Traditional Monte Cristo – triple decker country toast, Southern ham, roasted turkey, Swiss cheese, bourbon barrel maple syrup, powdered sugar

Maryland deviled crab sandwich – crisp lettuce, pickled onions, bread & butter pickles, comeback sauce, soft roll, home-fried potatoes

Caramelized banana and hazelnut bostock French toast – done our way with a ginger sugar soak, crushed hazelnuts, bananas and almond crème

After 12:30 p.m., Sunday guests will want to peruse the cocktail list for a luscious libation to accompany their brunch dish. The list includes favorites such as:

The Southern Gentleman Bloody Mary – Tito’s vodka, Bloody Mary mix, pickled shrimp, Dixie bacon garnish

Scarlett Belle – cranberry-infused vodka, lime cordial, bubbles

Brunch Punch – Four Roses bourbon, allspice dram, cinnamon honey syrup, black true sea salt, hard cider, bitters, apple spice

The Southern Gentleman is located at 3035 Peachtree Road NE in The Shops Buckhead Atlanta. Reservations can be made online or by calling 404-939-9845. Valet parking is available. For more information, visit thesoutherngentlemanatl.com.

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.


###