Beni’s Cubano Opens at The Avenue East Cobb June 5

For more information:

Morgan Lanier or Olivia Tuttle

Melissa Libby & Associates

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morgan@melissalibbypr.com

olivia@melissalibbypr.com

Beni’s Cubano Opens At The Avenue EAST COBB June 5

Old World Cuban Charm and Flavors in Marietta from Southern Proper Hospitality

ATLANTA (May 31, 2017) - Beginning June 5, say “¡Hola!” to unique Cuban dishes and a fun, immersive dining experience in Marietta at Beni’s Cubano, opening in The Avenue East Cobb. The new restaurant is from Southern Proper Hospitality, the successful team behind Tin Lizzy’s Cantina, Gypsy Kitchen, The Southern Gentleman, Smokebelly BBQ, Milton’s Cuisine & Cocktails and The Big Ketch Saltwater Grill. Designed to take diners back in time to the heyday of Havana, the menu at Beni’s Cubano was created by executive chef Cesar Velazquez and features innovative takes on classic Cuban dishes.

“At Beni’s Cubano, we want to transport you from the day-to-day and into a fun, festive atmosphere you’ll want to return to time and time again,” says Southern Proper Hospitality partner John Piemonte. “Just like our other restaurants, we are creating a sense of community, a super-comfortable place to kick back and enjoy a great meal and excellent beverages.”

From the antique bicycle hanging overhead, the colorfully painted antique shutters and the scent of simmering sauces that greet you as you walk in, Beni’s Cubano offers unique casual dining with a chef’s touch. Menu highlights include the following:

·         A classic Cuban sandwich with mojo-roasted pork, ham and Swiss cheese with pickles, mustard and garlic aioli

·         Seafood criollo, a sautéed shrimp and mahi mahi dish in a Cuban-Creole sauce with sofrito, tomato and olives  

·         Vaca frita, Velazquez’s creative new take on an old favorite made with crispy short rib, grilled onions and peppers, mojo and lime

·         Yucca fries or mariquitas (crispy spiced plantain chips) with a choice of two dipping sauces such as garlic aioli, mojo or house-made hot sauce

·         Beef picadillo empanadas stuffed to capacity and served with a choice of two dipping sauces

Diners looking to satisfy their sweet tooth can order a delectable house-made bread pudding with golden raisins, pecans, whipped cream and dulce de leche paired with a pot of classic Cuban coffee, espresso-style with sugar espuma.

The bar is accented with beautiful Cuban mosaic tile. The menu features classic Cuban cocktails, including:

·         Cuba Libre made with Havana Club Añejo rum and served on the rocks with a Mexican Coke and a lime

·         Havana Heat, a sweet-spicy concoction made from Flor de Caña 7 year rum, Ancho Reyes Chile liqueur, mango purée and sour mix

·         Beni’s Mojito made with Havana Club Silver rum, house-made mint simple syrup, muddled with limes and mint and topped with a splash of soda water

Beni’s Cubano is located in The Avenue East Cobb at 4475 Roswell Road, Suite 1510 (next to Tin Lizzy’s Cantina). The restaurant serves lunch and dinner daily beginning at 11 a.m. For more information, visit beniscubano.com or follow the restaurant on Facebook.

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Babalu Tapas & Tacos Opening in Atlanta with Seasoned, Local Team of Restaurant Industry Veterans

For more information:

Morgan Lanier or Olivia Tuttle

Melissa Libby & Associates

404-816-3068

morgan@melissalibbypr.com

olivia@melissalibbypr.com

BABALU TAPAS & TACOS OPENING IN ATLANTA WITH SEASONED, LOCAL TEAM

OF RESTAURANT INDUSTRY VETERANS

Roswell-Based Office of Eat Here Brands Guides Growth in the City They Know Best

ATLANTA (May 31, 2017) – Babalu Tapas & Tacos is opening the doors of its first Atlanta location this June thanks to a local team of talented individuals working at Jackson, Mississippi-based Eat Here Brands’ offices in Roswell.Together, the company’s Chief Financial Officer Tim Walker, Chief Operations Officer Stan Stout, Director of Operations Ben Miller and Marketing Director Stacey McMinn have been instrumental in the growth and development of the Babalu brand, and their combined experience in the Atlanta restaurant market enables the Spanish-meets-Southern-style tapas eatery to deliver just what the city desires at its new Midtown location in the 33 Peachtree Place development.

“We have an amazing team in Atlanta who not only know the local market inside and out but who also have a wide breadth of experience within the restaurant industry,” said Bill Latham, CEO of Eat Here Brands. “I’m confident their talents and localized strategy will lead to a successful introduction of Babalu to Atlanta.”

CFO Walker joined the Eat Here Brands team in 2014 and brings over 20 years of broad based business experience and over a decade of experience working with Atlanta based restaurant groups. Prior to Eat Here Brands, he was the Senior Vice President and CFO of Stevi B’s Pizza, where he led the IT, finance and strategy functions.  Earlier in his career, he assisted Arby’s with its finance and development activities.

As COO, Stout brings over 20 years of Atlanta restaurant industry experience and connections to many Atlanta-based brands. Stout worked as the chief human resources and technology officer at AFC Enterprises. Then during his time as managing partner at In the Black Partners, he worked with national and regional brands such as Arby’s, Newk’s, McAlister’s Deli, Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen, Sticky Fingers, Taco Mac and Tin Lizzy’s.

Miller has been working in Atlanta since 2000 and in the restaurant industry since 1992. His past experience includes time spent at Hardee’s, TGI Fridays and a vice president of operations role at Taco Mac, as well as a multi-unit management position with Hooters in the Georgia market. As director of operations since 2016, Miller takes genuine interest in his team members, developing those who are drawn to the restaurant industry and helping them to push their own limits to achieve goals.

As marketing director, McMinn is responsible for all marketing programs, brand management and restaurant grand openings. Prior to joining Eat Here Brands, McMinn was with FOCUS Brands, where she managed grand openings and local marketing strategy for McAlister’s Deli. Her previous experience includes more than 18 years of media strategy roles working with brands like Applebee’s, Blimpie, Buffalo Wild Wings, Pizza Hut and Ruby Tuesday.

Opening its doors this June, Babalu Atlanta is located at 33 Peachtree Place at the corner of West Peachtree Street and Peachtree Place next to the newly opened Dancing Goats Coffee Bar.

About Babalu

Babalu Tapas & Tacos is a fun, one-of-a-kind, sharing-style dining experience. Founded in 2010, in Jackson, Mississippi, the restaurant has quickly taken the Southeast by storm. The Latin-inspired dishes -- each with a unique Southern flair -- are sure to bring people together. Babalu is proud to use hyper-local produce and products for its made-from-scratch dishes and handcrafted cocktails. Babalu is a wholly owned subsidiary of Eat Here Brands. For more information, visit Atlanta.eatBABALU.com. Follow Babalu on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter for additional updates.

About Eat Here Brands

In early 2012, Bill Latham and Al Roberts teamed up to establish Eat Here Brands, LLC. Headquartered in Jackson, Mississippi, Eat Here Brands is the restaurant holding company for Babalu Tacos & Tapas, Table 100 and Interim Restaurant & Bar. For more information on Eat Here Brands, visit www.eathere.com.

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Sublime Doughnuts and SweetWater Partner for National Doughnut Day Celebration

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Morgan Lanier or Olivia Tuttle

Melissa Libby & Associates

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morgan@melissalibbypr.com

olivia@melissalibbypr.com

SUBLIME DOUGHNUTS AND SWEETWATER PARTNER FOR

 NATIONAL DOUGHNUT DAY CELEBRATION
Enjoy Chef-Crafted Doughnuts and a Doughnut-Inspired Beer during June 2nd

SweetWater Brewery Tour 

ATLANTA (May 30, 2017) – Sublime Doughnuts, Atlanta’s specialty bakeshop selling high-quality, chef-inspired doughnuts, is partnering with SweetWater Brewing Company to make National Doughnut Day the sweetest day of all for beer and doughnut lovers. On Friday, June 2, these two Atlanta favorites are treating SweetWater tour-goers to perfectly paired beer-and-doughnut tastings when they purchase the $12 brewery tour (at 195 Ottley Drive) between 4:20 and 7:30 p.m.

“We are big fans of creative doughnut pairings at Sublime, so it is an honor for us to have the SweetWater team create an exclusive beer inspired by our fresh strawberry ‘n’ cream doughnut,” says Sublime Doughnuts owner Kamal Grant. “I can’t think of a better way to celebrate National Doughnut Day in Atlanta than with our doughnuts and a specialty craft beer from SweetWater.”

In addition, the following Sublime doughnuts will be available for sampling during the SweetWater tour:

Dulce de Leche: a yeast doughnut ring topped with caramel sauce; paired with The Hatchery Mexican Style Lager

·    

     The Dirty D: a yeast doughnut topped with milk chocolate and Oreo™ and Nestlé™ crumbs; paired with SweetWater 420 Extra Pale Ale

     The Birthday Doughnut: a yeast doughnut topped with vanilla glaze and sprinkles; paired with SweetWater Blue

·    The Glazed Ring: a yeast doughnut topped with Sublime Doughnuts’ signature vanilla glaze; paired with Old Man Johnson’s Farm Raspberry Stout

For those who want to celebrate the holiday all day and night, Sublime Doughnuts’ shops in West Midtown (535 10^th Street NW) and North Druid Hills (2566 Briarcliff Road NE) are open 24 hours serving Sublime’s signature doughnut offerings.  

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.

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Help Willy’s Mexicana Grill Raise $22K in 22 Days for Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Atlanta

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Morgan Lanier or Olivia Tuttle

Melissa Libby & Associates

404-816-3068

morgan@melissalibbypr.com

olivia@melissalibbypr.com

HELP WILLY’S MEXICANA GRILL Raise $22K in 22 Days 

FOR BOYS & GIRLS CLUBS OF METRO ATLANTA

Donate $5, Get $5 Coupon During 22^nd Anniversary Celebration June 1-22

ATLANTA (May 25, 2017) – For the last two years, Willy’s Mexicana Grill has turned its birthday into a chance to give back to the community. After raising $20,000 for Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Atlanta in 2015 and $21,000 in 2016, Atlanta’s first (and still best) burrito restaurant celebrates turning 22 this year by offering customers the opportunity to help raise $22,000 for the organization in just 22 days.

Starting June 1, customers who donate $5 or more to the Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Atlanta’s Workforce Development Program will receive a coupon for $5 off their next visit. Every contribution directly benefits this local program, which provides high school students with volunteer and leadership opportunities that will help prepare them for successful careers.

“During the month of June, stopping in at Willy’s for our birthday celebration is a gift that keeps on giving,” says Willy’s founder Willy Bitter. “Not only do you get to enjoy the good feeling of supporting a worthy cause, but you also get a coupon good for $5 worth of our signature, fresh-made favorites.”

Bitter adds, “Best of all, our customers’ donations will have an impact in their own communities. If you make a donation in Athens, Columbus or Cartersville, that money will go directly to the clubs in those neighborhoods. You could be contributing to the future success of someone you see every day.”

The fundraiser runs through June 22 at all Willy's restaurants. The coupon may be used for a future visit to all locations except Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport.

About Willy’s Mexicana Grill

Willy’s Mexicana Grill was started by Willy Bitter, an entrepreneur who fell in love with California-style burritos after living in San Francisco and visiting the Mission District in the 1990s. He brought the idea for a new style of fast-casual Mexican restaurant back to Atlanta and opened his first Willy’s in 1995. Willy’s is growing responsibly and steadily, with 31 restaurants presently in the metro Atlanta area as well as Athens, Cartersville and Columbus, Georgia. For more information, visit willys.com.

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5Church Atlanta Announces Arrival of Executive Chef Scotley Innis

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Morgan Lanier or Olivia Tuttle
Melissa Libby & Associates
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morgan@melissalibbypr.com
olivia@melissalibbypr.com

5CHURCH ATLANTA ANNOUNCES ARRIVAL OF EXECUTIVE CHEF SCOTLEY INNIS

New Chef Brings Modernized Approach to Southern Cuisine at Hotspot in Heart of the City

ATLANTA (May 23, 2017) – Owner Ayman Kamel and his team at 5Church Atlanta are excited to welcome a new executive chef, Scotley Innis, who was formerly sous chef at South City Kitchen in Midtown and executive chef at Ormsby’s in West Midtown. Now, Innis blends his in-depth knowledge of Southern cuisine with his Caribbean heritage to give 5Church’s modern American menu a worldly approach with local flair.

“We’re thrilled to have Scotley joining our team,” says Kamel, who manages the restaurant’s daily operations. “Our guests are really going to enjoy the global flavors and modern edge that his cuisine has to offer.”

At 5Church, Innis aims to bring a more “up-tempo” Southern feel to the menu while also incorporating unique flavors from around the world. “So much of my cooking identity stems from my childhood and is blended with all I’ve learned as a chef here in Atlanta,” he says. “I am passionate about every meal I prepare, as though I’m cooking for my family and friends each night at the restaurant. Every time a guest comes to 5Church to dine, I want them to feel at ease and leave with an experience they will rave about.”

Innis continues to draw inspiration for his cuisine from his Caribbean background, incorporating ingredients that his mother and grandmother cooked on a daily basis. He loves applying unorthodox techniques to traditional dishes and thrives on the challenge of proving to locals that Southern staples can be modernized and still taste extraordinary. But it is Innis’ own son who really takes his imagination to the next level. “My son is an artist, and being with him always encourages me to step up my own creative game.”

In addition to the opportunity for creative growth, Innis was drawn to the familial feeling he got from 5Church. “When you’re working in a restaurant, the owner and staff become your second family. I immediately felt that level of comfort at 5Church; like I fit right in,” he says.

Innis’ early culinary career was spent working in local Jamaican-style restaurants in New York, but he soon desired to be a part of the quintessential Southern culture and made his move to Atlanta to begin pursuing a culinary arts education in 2005. While earning his culinary degree from Le Cordon Bleu, Innis began working in the kitchen at Marriott Hotels and then Au Pied de Cochon at the InterContinental Hotel, climbing his way up the ladder from garde manger to line cook to chef and gaining experience in French culinary techniques.

After three years of working in large hotel dining operations, he became the executive chef at Mudcatz Bayou Bar and Grill in Dunwoody, where he immersed himself in Cajun and Creole cuisine. Innis was then hired as a line cook at Tom Colicchio’s Craftbar in Buckhead and sharpened his skills in fine dining cuisine. In December 2009, Innis accepted a position at Ormsby’s and was promoted to executive chef in 2011, where his seasonal menu focused on from-scratch comfort food and fresh pub favorites that relied heavily on local produce and herbs. He then joined the team at South City Kitchen in Midtown to further both his knowledge of Southern cuisine and the business behind running a restaurant. Innis is now using his varied experience to help 5Church build its brand in Atlanta.

About 5Church Atlanta

5Church is located at 1197 Peachtree Street NE in Midtown's Colony Square. The restaurant serves dinner, weekday lunch and weekend brunch service. Reservations may be made via OpenTable, and valet and validated parking is available every day. For updates, follow the restaurant on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter. For additional information, visit 5churchatlanta.com.

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Southern Proper Hospitality Springs Into the Season with New Menu Items

For more information:
Morgan Lanier or Olivia Tuttle
Melissa Libby & Associates
404-816-3068
morgan@melissalibbypr.com
olivia@melissalibbypr.com

SOUTHERN PROPER HOSPITALITY SPRINGS INTO THE SEASON WITH NEW MENU ITEMS

Atlanta Restaurants Offer New Selections of Fresh Seasonal Fare

ATLANTA (May 23, 2017) – Locally grown, seasonal favorites are always on the menus of Southern Proper Hospitality  restaurants, and spring’s bounty is arriving now at The Big Ketch Buckhead and Roswell,  Gypsy Kitchen, Smokebelly BBQ, The Southern Gentleman and Milton’s Cuisine & Cocktails.

“When I think about spring, I think about possibilities,” says Southern Proper Hospitality co-owner John Piemonte. “From growing fruits and vegetables at Milton’s Acre to working with our local farmers and seafood providers to source the freshest ingredients, this is a season to really celebrate all the delicious ingredients we have to work with and the talented chefs in our kitchens who get to create new dishes with them.” 

New staff favorites include the following:

Grouper tacos at The Big Ketch in Buckhead and Roswell. Grilled grouper, jicama-mango slaw, chipotle-lime crema, fresh cilantro, shredded lettuce ($16.95). Buckhead – 3279 Roswell Road, 404-474-9508; Canton Street – 1105 Canton Street, 770-993-5749.

Summer squash at Milton’s Cuisine & Cocktails. Almond tart made with garden squash, caramelized onions, baby pea tendrils and popcorn shoot salad, mascarpone-stuffed fried squash blossoms with peanut butter romesco sauce ($18). 800 Mayfield Road in historic Crabapple, 770-817-0161.

Mediterranean salad at Gypsy Kitchen includes grilled zucchini, eggplant, onions, roasted red peppers, crushed tomatoes and bitter greens with a lemon-sumac vinaigrette ($10). Executive chef Matthew Ridgeway’s take on gazpacho is rustic with crushed tomatoes, cucumbers and red peppers, topped with garlic migas ($6 for a cup or $2 for a taste).  3035 Peachtree Road NE in The Shops Buckhead Atlanta, 404-939-9840.

Summer salad at Smokebelly BBQ. Mixed greens, seasonal berries, goat cheese, smoked almonds, crispy wonton, strawberry balsamic vinaigrette ($9) with add-ons such as pulled smoked chicken ($6); pulled pork ($5); chilled smoked shrimp ($7). 128 East Andrews, 404-848-9100.

At The Southern Gentleman, Country captain-style East Coast tile fish with Lowcountry crab curried grits and Little Rock “caviar” dressing ($28) and sweet tea-marinated long bone pork chop with Southern style cock-a-leekie, melted cabbage and potatoes, mini dumplin’s and smoked ham broth ($34).  3035 Peachtree Road NE in The Shops Buckhead Atlanta, 404-939-9845.

Committed to providing genuine hospitality and named by Restaurant Hospitality as one of the “25 Coolest Multi-Concept Companies in America,” Southern Proper Hospitality is a privately held collection of Atlanta restaurants that values innovation, creativity and attention to detail. For more information, visit www.sphospitality.com.

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Atlanta Restaurants Salute Memorial Day Weekend

Celebrate Memorial Day with ceremonies and salutes honoring our armed forces. Lighter traffic. Fewer lines. More brunch time. All-American restaurant specials, dance parties and live music abounding. Exploring Atlanta and nearby cities like Roswell over the Memorial Day weekend has its own set of perks. Remember to throw your flip-flops, sunscreen and dancing slippers in your car!

Atkins Park Restaurant & Bar in Virginia-Highland serves its mouthwatering brunch menu all weekend long and on Monday featuring all-American classics such as the fried chicken pancake sandwich, short rib and eggs, fried green tomato Benedict, numerous skillets and even avocado toast from 11:30 a.m.-3 p.m.

It’s not every Monday you can enjoy a relaxing brunch, so why not go for it? HOBNOB Neighborhood Tavern will offer its regular brunch menu on Saturday, Sunday AND Monday from 10:30 a.m.-4 p.m. HOBNOB also is one of the closest places to catch a bite when heading to the Atlanta Jazz Festival at Piedmont Park over Memorial Day weekend.

Johnny’s Hideaway boogies into the unofficial start of summer with a pre-Memorial Day party on Sunday, May 28. Dance to the music of the Cold Draft Beer band and DJ Spin. Want to stay out late? Johnny’s hours accommodate.

Celebrate Memorial Day weekend and National Burger Day (May 28) wiping burger juice off your chin -- the result of biting into the Royale with Cheese, a classic tavern burger, available at your favorite Marlow’s Tavern locations. Wagyu beef is seared perfectly and stacked with American cheese and dill pickle on a buttery sesame brioche bun. Open on Memorial Day. Check website for location hours.

There’s a whole lotta Whole Hog Hootenanny going on at Milton’s Cuisine & Cocktails from 12-2 p.m. on Monday, May 29. Pile plates with pulled pork, ribs, smoked chicken, sides and sweets at this all-you-care-to-eat shindig going hog wild on Milton’s Acre along with a cash bar, live music and games to please all ages. Tickets are $30/adult and $15 ages 12 and under. Buy tickets and read details here.

Enjoy an all-American meal of steaks, seafood and signature dishes at all three Ray’s Restaurants over the holiday weekend. On Memorial Day, May 29, Ray’s in the City, Ray’s on the River and Ray’s at Killer Creek will offer all veterans and active military a 20 percent discount.

Roswell Remembers Memorial Day, May 29 at the Roswell City Hall complex, reminds visitors why we cherish this special day honoring those who have served our nation in the armed forces. Visit ExploreRoswell.com to find out what’s going on in the historic city then plan a Roswell staycation over the holiday weekend or on down the road.

Smokebelly BBQ tickles ribs with four days of Red, White & Q festivities over the dates of May 26-29. Drink specials span the weekend, including $5 mules, $5 Tito’s drinks and $3 Bud Light and Miller drafts. Live music plays Friday and Saturday from 8 p.m.-midnight and Sunday from 1 p.m.-4 p.m. Sunday brunch kicks things up a notch with a bloody mary bar and bottomless mimosas from 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Smokebelly empowers Memorial Day gatherings with to-go packages. Dog-friendly patio! Call 404-848-9100 for more information. Open Memorial Day from 11 a.m.-10 p.m.

Atlanta’s closest beach is only a few miles away. The Big Ketch Saltwater Grill -- Buckhead or Canton Street -- primes for summer with live music, cold drinks and seafood dishes galore throughout the Memorial Day weekend. Stay cool on flip-flop-approved covered decks or within air-conditioned interiors. 

Interactive Ice Cream Phenomenon Sweet Charlie’s Rolls Into Buckhead June 8

For more information:

 Morgan Lanier or Olivia Tuttle

Melissa Libby & Associates

404-816-3068

morgan@melissalibbypr.com

olivia@melissalibbypr.com

Interactive Ice Cream Phenomenon Sweet Charlie’s
Rolls Into BUCKHEAD JUNE 8

One-of-a-Kind Ice Cream Shop Uses a Super-Cold Steel Surface and Unique Showmanship to Create Hand-Rolled Dessert Treats, Made Fresh to Order

ATLANTA (May 17, 2017) - Just in time for another sweltering Southern summer, Sweet Charlie’s, the hand-rolled ice cream and yogurt phenomenon is set to roll into Atlanta on Thursday, June 8. The shop at 3872 Roswell Road in Buckhead (next to Superica) is the first-ever franchise location for the year-old Sweet Charlie’s, which has been creating lines down the block since the concept debuted in Philadelphia last summer.

Budding Atlanta entrepreneur and 2012 University of Georgia graduate John Martin is responsible for bringing the concept to Atlanta. The Virginia-Highland resident became enamored with rolled ice cream last year after seeing it in action during a summer vacation with his wife.

“Sweet Charlie’s combines the art of making rolled ice cream with modern American showmanship to create a one-of-a-kind experience for all ages,” says Martin. “The best part is, it tastes delicious.”  

It starts with a base of either premium ice cream, nonfat yogurt or the company’s Nada-Moo vegan option. Each ice cream or frozen yogurt is made to order on a super-cold surface that is below 20 degrees. Because the surface is so cold, very small ice crystals form quickly. These ice crystals create the freshest, most delicious end product. The unique process eliminates the need to add stabilizers, emulsifiers, and preservatives.

Menu highlights include:

·         Rise & Shine - made with Cinnamon Toast Crunch cereal bits

·         Off Duty - a coffee/donut combo

·         Kiss & Tell - made with mint Oreos

·         S’more Please – with graham crackers, chocolate and roasted marshmallows

·         Monkey See Monkey Do - with Nutella and bananas

·         Death By Chocolate - created with chocolate brownies and chocolate chips

Ice cream rolls are served straight up in a cup or on a fresh, warm, glazed Sublime Doughnut, also known as the “Tall Charlie”.

The family-operated Sweet Charlie’s is the brainchild of 19-year-old entrepreneur Kyle Billig, who after watching a video about the trend of rolled ice cream that was taking off overseas, asked himself why no one had duplicated its success in the U.S. The first Sweet Charlie’s debuted on Philadelphia’s Walnut Street last summer, and the lines down the block inspired the Billigs to open additional new locations in New Jersey and Delaware. The family was so impressed by Martin’s pitch, they awarded him the first-ever Sweet Charlie’s franchise for Atlanta.

Sweet Charlie’s is located at 3872 Roswell Road in the Buckhead Court shopping center next to Superica. The ice cream shop has a garage-style roll up window for warm breezy days and a vacation vibe filled with good music and five patented super-cold metal surfaces where Sweet Charlie’s ice cream wizards will dazzle customers. Sweet Charlie’s will be open seven days a week, from 12 – 10 p.m. For more information, call 404-549-8183 or visit sweetcharlies.com.

                                                                                        

About Sweet Charlie’s

Sweet Charlie’s combines the art of making ice cream rolls with modern American showmanship to create a one of a kind experience for all ages. Each ice cream or frozen yogurt is made to order on a super-cold surface that is below 20 degrees. Because the surface is so cold, very small ice crystals form quickly. These ice crystals create the freshest, most delicious end product. The unique process

eliminates the need to add stabilizers, emulsifiers and preservatives. The best part is… it tastes delicious!

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Spring and Summer Soirées Made Easy at Atlanta’s Favorite Restaurants

For more information:

 Morgan Lanier or Olivia Tuttle

Melissa Libby & Associates

404-816-3068

morgan@melissalibbypr.com

olivia@melissalibbypr.com

SPRING AND SUMMER SOIRÉES MADE EASY AT ATLANTA’S FAVORITE RESTAURANTS
Beautiful Event Spaces and Delicious, Affordable Event Packages Make for a Feast without the Fuss

ATLANTA (May 17, 2017) – There is no shortage of social occasions in the busy months of late spring and summer, and luckily for Atlantans, there is no shortage of top restaurants ready to help you celebrate in style. The following hotspots offer an array of tantalizing menu options and beautiful event spaces to help make your gathering a success.

Intown/Midtown/Virginia-Highland

5Church Atlanta’s cutting-edge atmosphere and sophisticated menu of modern American favorites make it the perfect setting for entertaining a few beloved family members or 250 of your closest friends. Book your event here.  404-400-3669; 5churchatlanta.com.

Atkins Park Restaurant & Bar in Virginia-Highland serves up an animated environment that makes it just the right spot for a pleasant evening. An upstairs room can accommodate 30 guests for a sit-down dinner or 50 guests for a cocktail reception. 404-876-7249; atkinspark.com.

The Federal, the new, intimate steakhouse space from chefs Shaun Doty and Lance Gummere, can accommodate parties of all sizes, including a full buyout option for larger groups. For more information, email info@thefederalatl.com.

While Gunshow doesn’t feature a private dining area, Kevin Gillespie’s nationally acclaimed restaurant does offer different tiers of group dining events. Parties of up to seven can make reservations here, while groups of eight to 12 guests can fill out a reservation request here. Gunshow can also accommodate larger groups of 13 to 70 guests; interested parties can fill out a request form here. 404-380-1886; gunshowatl.com.

Midtown Takorea & Ssam Bar provides a secluded downstairs room for up to 40 people and can also accommodate standing, cocktail-style mixers for up to 60 guests. The private events room has its own full bar, sound system and projection screen and can be accessed via a private entrance. Guests can enjoy chef Tomas Lee’s regular menu of delicious Korean street cuisine or order from a special catering menu with food served full-service or buffet style. The restaurant’s upstairs sun room and patio are also available for rental. 404-532-1944; mytakorea.com.

Located on the Westside under the White Provisions building, Ormsby’s feels like one of the city’s best-kept secrets. It’s a leading destination for gatherings and celebrations of all sizes and stripes, thanks to a variety of games (shuffleboard, darts, bocce ball, board games and pool) perfect for socializing. With a wide selection of craft beers and a menu of classic and creative gastropub favorites, it’s a casual crowd-pleaser. 404-968-2033; ormsbysatlanta.com.

Kevin Gillespie's ode to Southern dining, Revival in Decatur has several private dining options ranging from an intimate family dinner for up to 12 guests and day and evening meeting spaces for 20-25, all the way up to corporate-style events of up to 100.  Outdoor spaces abound on the front and side porches of the home, as weather permits. Communion Cantina, the restaurant’s backyard area, is also available for rent to large groups, offering beer and cocktails, a small menu of Mexican food truck snacks, and outdoor games. 470-225-6770; j.r@redbeardrestaurants.com or revivaldecatur.com. 

Buckhead/Brookhaven/Sandy Springs

American Cut boasts two handsomely appointed private dining rooms, as well as the luxurious rooftop environs of The Regent Cocktail Club—all ideal for private parties from family celebrations to corporate affairs. Choose from a selection of private event menus and beverages designed especially to suit the needs of your gathering. For further information, email events@ldvatlanta.com.

Aria in Buckhead offers an exquisitely chic yet comfortable atmosphere and an avant-garde menu of fine American cuisine made with high-quality seasonal ingredients. Larger parties can buy out the restaurant for a private lunch or dinner in the renovated space, which features warm gray walls, rich butter-hued drapes, glowing backlit custom mirrors and gorgeous leather banquettes. 490 East Paces Ferry Road; 404-233-7673; aria-atl.com.

The 1920s-inspired speakeasy backdrop of The Blind Pig Parlour Bar offers a fun, sophisticated alternative to your usual private dining room. Entertain up to 80 guests with creative small plates and craft cocktails in an intimate setting—there’s even room for live entertainment. Call 404-931-1251 or email april@sphospitality.com.

Food 101’s attractive private dining room can accommodate up to 40 people seated or 50 for a cocktail-style reception. See sample menus showcasing the restaurant’s innovative, farm-to-table approach to Southern cuisine here. 404-497-9700; food101atl.com.

Gypsy Kitchen stands ready to create special tasting menus, elaborate spreads or passed appetizers showcasing its enchanting mix of Spanish, Indian and Moroccan flavors, along with a beverage menu that emphasizes Old World-style wines, European beers and craft cocktails. 404-939-9840; gk-atl.com.

Located in the heart of Buckhead, exclusive Japanese cocktail lounge Himitsu happily accommodates semi-private events (up to 28 seated guests or 40 standing) and is also available for full buyouts (68 guests seated, or 100 standing). Menus featuring sake and signature craft cocktails, along with sushi rolls and small bites from the lounge’s sister restaurant Umi, can be created especially for your event. For more information, call 404-841-0040.

Jefe's Tacos & Tequila, located in the bustling Town Brookhaven development, can easily accommodate large groups for special events. 404-963-6205; jefestacos .com.

The Southern Gentleman, the popular gastropub located in The Shops Buckhead Atlanta, can accommodate up to 150 guests for your special event, with a menu that spotlights hand-crafted cocktails and chef Matthew Ridgway’s sophisticated, locally sourced take on Southern cuisine. For more information, call 404-939-9845 or email events@tsg-atl.com.

Suburbs – East Cobb, North Fulton

Milton’s Cuisine & Cocktails in historic Crabapple provides a charming setting for your special event. Milton’s can accommodate parties of eight to 200 guests, and each event can be specially tailored by request. Banquet menus are priced at $35, $45 and $55. Guests will really dig Milton’s Acre, the restaurant’s 1-acre garden perfect for chef’s tables, wine tastings, birthdays and other events.  770-817-0161; miltonscuisine.com.

Seed Kitchen & Bar, located in the Merchant’s Walk retail center in Marietta, serves up stylish yet accessible (and affordable) modern comfort food with knowledgeable but unpretentious service. Seed can accommodate private parties of up to 25 guests and semi-private events for 10-25 guests. The patio, weather permitting, can host groups of up to 30. 678-214-6888; eatatseed.com. Next door, sister restaurant Stem Wine Bar is available for full buyouts. 678-214-6888; stemwinebar.com. Drift Fish House & Oyster Bar can accommodate groups of up to eight at the chef’s table or in the wine room or oyster bar, while the Shiplap room can host up to 28 guests. The covered patio area seats up to 26, and the outdoor patio accommodates up to 50 guests. 770-635-7641; driftoysterbar.com.

Multiple Locations

The folks at Ray’s Restaurants pride themselves on event spaces and menus that add up to memorable events. Ray’s on the River in Sandy Springs boasts a variety of event spaces for groups ranging from 10 to 110 guests. The Riverside Garden and Grand Pavilion offer spectacular views of the Chattahoochee River. 770-955-1187. Ray’s at Killer Creek in Alpharetta caters to groups with a number of private spaces, including a covered outdoor patio and courtyard that accommodates up to 70 guests. The entire restaurant can also be bought out for the evening. 770-649-0064. Ray’s in the City in downtown Atlanta offers an extensive private dining menu, including fresh sushi, with spaces that can accommodate 16 to 75 guests. Complete restaurant buyouts are also available. 404-524-9224. Last but not least, let Ray’s Rio Bravo Events add some flavor to your gathering with its signature made-from-scratch Tex-Mex cuisine and specialty margaritas in a festive special event space with a large bar and indoor and outdoor dining areas. 770-612-2829; raysrestaurants.com.

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