Erica's Atlanta Food Tour

Dec. 7, 2015 - High ceilings, wood-fire grill, and warm smiling faces set the scene for a superb dining experience at Thirteen Pies. It seems like these days you have the option to have everything gourmet. When I was growing up and my mom wasn't in the mood to cook, pizza was always on the menu. Thirteen Pies provides a chic pizza dining experience perfect for date nights, group outings, or a new twist on family pizza night. Located in Shops of Buckhead, Thirteen Pies isn't like your average pizza joint because it encourages shared plates. The restaurant's menu offers innovative appetizers, fresh salads, and an impressive dessert menu. Each month a rotating-feature menu comes out and it's always exciting because the Thirteen Pies team creates an unforgettable experience for all.

Nov. 13, 2015 - Yebo is Justin Anthony's second South African restaurant in Atlanta. Located in Buckhead's Phipps Plaza on Peachtree, it brings the signature, authentic South African cuisine the Anthony family is known for, along with a modern and eclectic vibe. Set to a trendy interior design, the tapas-style menu features globally-inspired items and has everything from a unique twist on fried chicken to lobster couscous. The lively vibes and dynamic menu provide an option for everyone! Additionally, Yebo offers a special Sunday brunch with bottle service of Veuve Clicquot, and plates such as French toast. Bonus: air-popped popcorn.

Nov. 6, 2015 - If you plan on taking the family to a Braves game, there is no better place to pre-game or celebrate a victory than at Braves All Star Grill. This restaurant has stadium seats, a wall of retired jerseys, a display-only batting cage, and an apparel shop that kids will love. There is an extensive kid-friendly menu with options such as the fresh, grilled salmon with BBQ mashed potatoes and broccoli. The kids' burger has two Angus beef sliders and hand-cut French fries. This restaurant is a one-of-a-kind venue and is perfect for birthday parties and other special occasions.

Sept. 21, 2015 - Are you looking for an extensive sushi and unique noodle menu? Look no further, Genki has you covered. I love the open patio and the laid-back atmosphere, which is extremely rare for this prime Buckhead location. Owner Reid Zeising grew up in Japan, and fell in love with Japanese food and culture. Thankfully, he decided to bring it to America where we can enjoy all the deliciousness that Genki offers.

After looking at the menu I knew I had to try the sushi and rice bowls. I was really hungry, so I ordered the I Heart Sushi roll and the salmon noodle bowl. Both dishes ended up being more food than I bargained for. When the roll arrived, it really was in the shape of a heart, which I loved. Who doesn't love a dapper presentation? And it was just as tasty -- extremely fresh with a good fish/rice ratio. The rolls are huge -- each roll must have had 12-15 pieces. In the salmon rice bowl, the rice was light and fluffy, the salmon was fresh, and there was a lot of it. My eyes were bigger than my stomach. I thought I'd leave hungry, but I couldn't even finish half of the bowl.

Their egg rolls are yummy too, and it's also a large portion, so it’s great for sharing and makes a wonderful appetizer. The cocktail menu offers various martinis and custom drinks. When I noticed St. Germain on the menu, I immediately ordered the Float Away. This combination of St. Germain, Champagne, lemon, and strawberry was light and delightful.

Sept. 2, 2015 - I stopped by MAYA Steaks & Seafood because I am a huge fan of Red Pepper Taqueria and Coldbrews Oyster Bar and Grill. All three of these fine restaurants are owned and operated by chef and restaurateur, Mimmo Alboumeh. I am always in the mood for a new dining experience, especially when it comes to a steakhouse.

MAYA Steaks & Seafood is located in Sandy Springs. The name comes from Mimmo's youngest daughter, Maya. This restaurant has a relaxed atmosphere with a classic steakhouse feel. The space isn't that large -- about 1,800 square feet -- so it has a very intimate feel.  My expectations are extremely high when it comes to steakhouses. When you think of steakhouses in Atlanta, you think créme de la crème: superior service, premium USDA beef, and an extensive wine list. MAYA's menu has an array of creative American steaks and seafood dishes with Alboumeh's signature Spanish flair. If you like wine, you'll be impressed with MAYA's curated list of over 40 wines by the glass, and original cuts of meat from renowned meat purveyor, Braveheart Black Angus Beef.

After dining at MAYA Steaks & Seafood, I can proudly say that this steakhouse can hang with the best of them. Mimmo Alboumeh says, "Our focus will be on creating an authentic experience with every visit based on excellent customer service, quality food, and wine and spirit offerings that reflect my passion to always go above and beyond." They offer all of that and more. When you visit you must try ...

Escargot: I am a huge fan of escargot. This dish was heavenly. It was extremely heavy, with tons of butter and garlic, which also made it extremely flavorsome. I really like firm texture, and how well escargot absorbs flavors. It was served with pimentón toast.

New Zealand rack of lamb: You can pick up tasty tender lamb chops anywhere. However, the New Zealand Rack of Lamb at Maya was incredible. I had it served with Burgundy reduction sauce and roasted potatoes.

Delightful Chilean seabass: This was my favorite dish -- fabulous taste, and it was moist, light, and buttery. Its high fat content gives it a rich, moist, tender flavor profile which melts in your mouth. Served with sauteed spinach and topped with a lobster cream sauce, this dish made my tastebuds give a standing ovation.

MAYA Steaks & Seafood was the winner of the 2015 OpenTable Diners' Choice Award, and after dining here, I completely agree that they deserved it!

July 23, 2015 - Las Flores is a hidden gem in Conyers, Georgia. If you like tequila, then Las Flores is going to be one of your favorite places to dine. -- it offers one of the largest selections of tequilas in the southeast and has more than 215 different varieties.

We started with a variety of salsa. We noticed that another table ordered one, and it looked so tasty that we immediately decided that we wanted to try it -- scrumptious.  We ordered the chicken mushroom quesadillas -- we ate the entire quesadilla within five minutes. My favorite was the the taco salad with salsa topped with grilled shrimp. Black beans, avocado, cheese, tomatoes, sour cream, and lettuce piled high.  This salad was one for the books.

I have always thought the show 'Man V. Food' was so awesome; if you're up to it, this restaurant offers a true food challenge. The El Burrito Chingon is a monster weighing in at an amazing 8 pounds! This giant burrito is made out of four 12-inch tortillas, grilled chicken, Angus ribeye steak, lettuce, tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, queso sauce, serrano peppers, grilled onions, rice, and beans. If you take on this challenge, you have only one hour to complete it. Be the first to win this challenge!  The winner gets the El Burrito Chingon for FREE, a $100 gift card, and you earn your name and picture on their wall.  And if you're still hungry, they'll throw in a free sweet treat!  How awesome is that?!  I am going to give this challenge a try in the upcoming weeks.  I will definitely keep you posted. 

June 22, 2015  - Until I started writing for YP, I never understood what it truly meant to make every day local! I mean, you always hear people say "support local businesses" and so on, but what does that really mean?

Well, to me, to make every day local means supporting my local community and its businesses. To make every day local means supporting the state I live in, Georgia, and all it has to offer.

Last Sunday, I had an excellent time hosting a brunch with 'Top Chef' host, James Beard, and award-recipient Hugh Acheson. Hugh Acheson is the chef and owner of 5 & 10 and The National, located in Athens, Ga., and Empire State South in Midtown Atlanta. His latest venture, The Florence, just opened this month in Savannah, Ga.

To say we had fun would be an understatement. I was able to gather 25 of your favorite Atlanta food bloggers to enjoy brunch and discuss what makes every day local to our community. Attendees were treated to an amazing brunch from Empire State South along with great company. While dining, attendees were able to interact with Hugh through a Q & A session to learn more about him and how he makes every day local. As a bonus treat, everyone received a copy of his new book 'The Broad Fork'.

I can't wait for the the next event. Thank you to everyone who attended.

Pictured left to right: Allison Cawley, Hugh Acheson, Erica Key, Kelly Boring

June 8, 2015 - This past week, I had the opportunity to try a few recipes from 'Southern Made Fresh' by Tasia Malakasis. Tasia is a cookbook author, tastemaker, and owner of the award-winning and nationally lauded Belle Chèvre goat cheese company based in Alabama, and she reinvents Southern comfort foods with local fresh ingredients in her new book.

I don't know if you have ever tasted Belle Chèvre goat cheese, but it's delicious, extremely creamy, and full of flavor. If you haven't you tried this cheese, you're definitely missing out. You can buy Belle Chèvre at Star Provisions, Atlanta's premier market for baked goods, cheese, wine, meats, seafood, locally roasted coffee, and other gourmet items.

While cooking, Tasia only has two rules in the kitchen: Taste everything and have fun. It’s that same gregarious spirit that guided Tasia in writing 'Southern Made Fresh' and filling its pages with warm hospitality, abundant flavors, and all the comforts you would expect from a book so deeply rooted in the spirit of the South. She has created more than 175 recipes that break the stereotype of heavy Southern cuisine and redefine the meaning of "comfort food."

With ingredients that are only a farmer's market away, Tasia has simplified farm-to-table cooking by proving that flavor can be found in the simplest of ingredients. This book is amazing!  No matter what your level of cooking expertise, you are sure to execute these recipes. Her book provides recipes for brunch, dinner, and cocktails. One my favorites is below:

Fresh Herb and Gruyere Bread Pudding
Serves: 6

- Butter
- 1 1/2 cups milk
- 1 1/2 cups Half & Half
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh chervil
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh chives
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh dill
- 3/4 tsp table salt
- 1/2 freshly ground black pepper
- 5 large eggs
- 2 cups (8 oz.) shredded Gruyère cheese, divided
- 1 (12 oz.) French bread loaf, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tbsp cold butter, cut into pieces
Garnishes: chopped fresh chives, chopped fresh dill

1.      Preheat oven to 350°. Butter 6 (4-inch) ramekins.

2.      Whisk together milk and next 7 ingredients in a large bowl. Stir in 1 cup cheese. Add bread cubes, stirring to coat. Pour bread mixture into prepared ramekins. Let stand 15 minutes. Sprinkle with remaining cheese, and dot with cold butter pieces.

3.      Bake at 350° for 35 to 40 minutes or until golden and a wooden pick inserted in center comes out clean. Serve warm.

Pictured: Fresh Herb and Gruyere Bread Pudding (photo courtesy of Tasia Malakasis)

May 22, 2015- Being a foodie, I always love to purchase cooking gifts for my friends and family.  I also take pride in knowing the latest gadgets in the culinary world. When I do purchase these dapper items, I always make sure to purchase them at The Cook's Warehouse. Located in Midtown Atlanta, The Cook's Warehouse is Atlanta's premier gourmet store and cooking school. There are also two other locations: Downtown Decatur and East Cobb.

Whenever I stop by, I am literally like a kid in a candy store. They offer everything and anything food related. They also have a full kitchen for cooking classes and private events for corporate team building. If you're in need of a new appliance, they have great sales on all major appliances such as ranges, refrigerators, and dishwashers. And if your knives are dull, they offer professional knife sharpening services. So when I say everything culinary, I really do mean everything culinary.

This week I stopped by to see the executive chef, Jennifer Hill Booker. This particular visit, she was showcasing her first cookbook, 'Field Peas to Foie Gras: Southern Recipes with a French Accent.' Chef Hill Booker is a Georgia native. She believes that food should taste like food, and for over 20 years, she has spent her culinary career educating people about food, nutrition, and healthy cooking practices. As a culinary educator, she has been in a prime position to demonstrate the ease, affordability, and importance of cooking and eating seasonally, and has shared this information in the classroom, on the cooking stage, and in original published recipes. She's also been a recipe contributor to such publications as Jezebel, Southern Seasons, Urban Socialites, Basil Magazine, and Sister2Sister. She recently launched YourResidentGourmet.net, a food blog focusing on healthy eating, culinary trends, travel, and living well. Among her many honors, she was selected to be a Georgia Grown executive chef by the Georgia Department of Agriculture, for whom she travels the state representing Georgia family farmers. 

One of my favorite items from the book has to be the spring omelet roll. It's easy to prepare and very scrumptious. I have provided the recipe, and I'm sure you will love it as well:

Spring Omelet Roll (serves 8)

Similar to baked souffle, this dish is whipped up light and fluffy and baked in a hot oven to trap the air in the egg mixture. Add different fillings such as bacon, ham, onions, or cheese. Roll it up, slice it, and it still stays light and fluffy.  Baking it in a jellyroll pan makes it easier to roll, and precooking the raw ingredients ensures that the omelet is cooked thoroughly.

Ingredients: 

2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted, plus 2 tablespoons for greasing the pan

½ cup cream cheese room temperature

2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon sea salt to taste

1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper to taste

¾ cup whole milk

12 medium eggs well beaten

1 large green bell pepper finely diced

½ cup finely diced red onion

2 tablespoons Dijon mustard

2½ cups sharp cheddar cheese shredded

2 cups black pepper bacon, or other smoked bacon, cooked and drained

2 medium tomatoes seeded and diced

¼ cup green onion tops chopped

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees F. 

2. Line the bottom of a jellyroll pan, or deep sheet pan, with parchment paper, and grease with 2 tablespoons butter; set aside.

3. In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese, flour, salt, pepper, and milk until smooth. Stir in the beaten eggs.

4. Heat the melted butter in a large stainless-steel saute pan over medium heat. Add the bell peppers and onion and cook for 10 minutes, or until translucent, being careful not to brown. Remove from the heat and allow the vegetables to cool in the pan.

5. Add the onions and peppers to the bowl with the egg mixture, and stir until well combined. Pour into the prepared jellyroll pan and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the eggs have puffed up and are set in the center. Remove from the oven and immediately spread the mustard on top of the egg roll, and sprinkle with 1 cup cheese. Top with bacon and and an additional 1 cup cheese.

6. Roll the baked egg lengthwise, peeling the parchment paper away as you go. Return the rolled omelet to the pan, sprinkle the top with the remaining cheese, and bake an additional 3 to 4 minutes until the cheese is melted. Remove from the oven and allow the egg roll to rest for 5 minutes.  Cut into 2-inch slices and garnish with the diced tomatoes and chopped green onions.

From 'Field Peas to Foie Gras: Southern Recipes with a French Accent' by Jennifer Hill Booker, © 2014 Jennifer Hill Booker, used by permission of the publisher, Pelican Publishing Company, Inc.

May 7, 2015 - I had a great time last week at the YP corporate Atlanta office for the employee engagement event!  I arrived and greeted YP employees with a bright smile and mouthwatering treats from Revolution Donuts. Shockingly, I had never been to Revolution Donuts. These donuts were so grand that I just had to stop by the shop the very next day.  

They offer various styles and flavors, and if you're vegan, you're in luck. The many vegan options are made without ingredients sourced from animals such as dairy, meat, eggs, and honey. All the donuts are handmade, and only the freshest and all-natural ingredients are used. Family owned and operated, this donut shop's mission is simple: Revitalize the American doughnut by helping restore it to its former glory as a simple, tasty, hand-crafted treat. Typically at regular donut shops, you just get a few choices. But at Revolution, you have four different styles:

Baked Cake: Very filling! Extremely moist and soft, "poundcake-like" texture, not fried. 

Cake Style: Moist, dense, and tender with a crunchy exterior. 

Filled Rounds: These donuts are handcrafted with seasonal fillings in a yeast-raised round. 

Yeast: A classic donut! Very light and fluffy dough with a satisfying chew.

After you select your style, the fun begins. You have incredible flavors such as Nutella cream, creme brulee, vanilla bean, caramel bacon, and apple fritter. My favorite is the  strawberry-filled round filled with sweet, fresh strawberries in a yeast-raised round.  It's so fruity, sweet, and has that perfect chewiness.  Although it was my first time trying these remarkable donuts, I assure you that it will not be my last time. The next time you're in Decatur, stop by Revolutionary Donuts!

April 23, 2015 - Recently I had the opportunity to stop by 1KEPT. One of my favorite things about this restaurant is they are huge supporters of everything local. You will notice the menu features selections from local farms and farmers markets. The culinary team sources regional ingredients wherever possible. Not only do they support local suppliers, they also feature local growers and vendors.

On this particular visit I was able to have some chit-chat with the bar manager, Jonathan Turner. Jonathan is remarkable with creating cocktails. He's one of the few bartenders that can make me any kind of cocktail, and I will excitedly enjoy it. No matter if it's dark liquor, white liquor, or champagne, Jonathan has a passion and gift for creating tasty drinks. He is an Atlanta native and has been in the food and beverage industry for over a decade. If you have ever enjoyed drinks at Seven Lamps, then guess what? That was Jonathan's work, because that's where he started his career. He had the pleasure of working under two of my favorite Atlanta bartenders, Arianne Fielder and Tom McGuire.

After working in all aspects of a restaurant, he discovered that his home was behind the bar. A true social butterfly, Jonathan finds inspiration through interacting with guests and hearing their stories. Currently as bar manager at 1KEPT, he enjoys collaborating with the kitchen to incorporate the freshest local ingredients into each cocktail. He also is a self-proclaimed old-fashioned fan, but also specializes in suppressors and hydration cocktails. After a little arm twisting, I was lucky enough to snag a recipe for readers to create at home.

The Kings Courts Cocktail

- 2 oz Crystal Head Vodka
- 1 oz Domanie de Canton
- 1/2 oz Fresh Lemon Juice
- 1/4 oz Saffron Simple Syrup
- 1 Dash Boston Bittahs
- 4 Basil Leaves

Prep: Combine all ingredients into cocktail shaker, add ice, shake hard (with a smile, of course); double strain into martini glass.

Garnish: One basil leaf smacked with back of hand and floated on top of cocktail.

Difficulty level:  Easy to moderate.

April 13, 2015 - Being a food blogger, I'm so busy visiting various restaurants, meeting chefs, and attending weekly culinary events that sometimes I don't get a chance to visit some of my local Atlanta favorites. Recently, I decided to stop by one of my favorite restaurants, which is Park Tavern. Located in Midtown, Park Tavern is seconds away from Piedmont Park. They have half-off sushi every night from 10pm to midnight. They also have bottles of wine on Wednesday’s that are half price. And when it rains, they pour $1 drafts! It doesn't get any better than that! The restaurant is combined with an event space that’s over 9,000 square feet. This location is perfect for holiday parties, corporate events, and weddings.  If you've been to Piedmont Park in the summer, nine times out of ten, you have seen a beautiful wedding taking place.

Although this restaurant is known for several things, sushi is the most popular. On this rainy Thursday, I decided to stop by for some savory and appetizing sushi. Their sushi, in my opinion, is the freshest that I've ever tasted, and overall, their sushi rolls are just simply incredible. When I dined on this particular evening, I enjoyed the Firecracker Roll which consists of spicy tuna, fresh jalapenos, shrimp tempura, and avocado topped with Tombo Ahi tuna, firecracker sauce, spicy mayo, crispy shallots, and wasabi tobiko. After indulging on this roll, I wanted to try some sushi and Nairagi. In the meantime, I was able to get the inside scoop from the talented and innovative Chef Chaplin:

Bought by Day Boat
The fish company where this exclusive fish is purchased is the Honolulu Fish Company. They purchase their fish each morning at 4am Hawaiian time. They do this by sending buyers to the fish auction. It's imperative that only the best fish is purchased. The fish isn't purchased by grade, but rather by day boats. Of course, I had to inquire what's the difference between day boats and other boats. Day boats go out to sea and come back, typically, the same day. Other boats leave and can stay at sea for weeks, which affects the freshness of the fish. Would you prefer fish that has been caught the same day or that has been out on a boat for three to six weeks? The price of this fish can range anywhere from $45 per pound and higher. Honolulu Fish Company has state-of-the-art cleaning of their fish, and they use no chemicals, but only iodized water.

Aged for Flavor
Tuna and beef are two items that you don't want to eat immediately. Typically, you want to wait 21 days for beef to age and three days for the tuna. When you let the beef and tuna age, the flavor comes out just right. This especially goes for the tuna. Within the first 24 to 48 hours, tuna has a metallic flavor. But if you let it age for three days, it will have a rich buttery flavor.

Selected for the Menu
The word "ahi" means fire. Ahi tuna is only found in Hawaii, and it's a fish that has a very red color. This is why ahi tuna gets its name because of it being known for its fiery red color. I also learned that white tuna that is of high quality is pale in color. Finally, the reason why sushi is so fresh at Park Tavern is because there are only four to five fish on the sushi menu. It's a lot easier to maintain freshness by not worrying about eight or nine different types of fish on the menu.

I had an awesome time, and I really enjoyed myself.  It was fascinating to gain insight by finding out their secret to sushi freshness.

April 3, 2015 -- I grew up seeing my grandma's bundt pans throughout her house. I will always have a soft spot and a high standard for bundt cakes. Recently, I had samples of Nothing Bundt Cakes bundtlets, which are mini bundt cakes -- and they were so yummy!

The bundlets were so moist, light, and full of flavor. Literally two days later, I stopped by and ordered 10 bundtlets. They are a little goodness of perfection. The shop located in Alpharetta has a very homey feel, and when you first walk in, it smells like vanilla pound cake. Nothing Bundt Cakes only uses the purest ingredients -- fresh eggs, real butter, and real cream cheese -- all to bring you bundt cake perfection.

Nothing Bundt Cakes is known for their signature frosting, which is made with velvety cream cheese and real butter. They offer 8'' cakes, 10" cakes, tier cakes, bundtlets, and bundtinis.  They also offer amazing flavors: red velvet, cinnamon, white white chocolate, carrot, marble, white chocolate raspberry, and chocolate chip.  My favorite and the one I highly recommend is the white white chocolate.

March 23 , 2015 - When it comes to chefs, Atlanta knows a thing or two. We are literally a hub for the most innovative chefs on the scene. Recently, I had the chance to chat with Chef Tregaye Fraser, who makes guest appearances as one of the chefs at one of my favorite restaurants, The Sun Dial.

I figured she would be the perfect person for an awesome recipe (like the stuffed lobster tails she shared below), especially since she has experience cooking in 24 different countries. She also has prepared dishes for the likes of President Barack Obama, the Prince of Saudi Arabia, and actor Carl Anthony Payne. 

You can catch Chef Tregaye on television, as she will be appearing four times on The Food Network this year, on two of the most popular shows airing: 'Guy's Grocery Games' and 'Cutthroat Kitchen All Stars'. 

Lobster Mac N Cheese Stuffed Lobster Tails

Ingredients:
- 2 lobster tails
- 1 pound elbow macaroni, or fusili noodles
- 1 1/2 quarts heavy whipping cream
- 2 cups milk
- 1 small stick of cream cheese
- 1/2 stick butter
- 1 pound shredded sharp cheddar
- 1 cup mozzarella
- 1 pint garlic cheese spread
- 2 egg yolks
- 1 tsp minced garlic
- 1 bunch of parsley

Pasta Prep:
Boil your pasta in salted water, strain, and set to the side.

Lobster Prep:
Hold the lobster tail in your hand, upside down, pointy side up. Next, take your kitchen shears, cut down the right side of the lobster shell (trying not to cut the meat), then cut a straight line down the left side of the shell; pull back the clear layer of shell, then reach in and pull the meat out of the lobster shell. Save the shells. (you can also buy 2 pounds of lobster meat if you don't want to fabricate the shell, and finish in a pan instead of the shell).  Cut your lobster meat in half-inch slices, then dice and set to the side.

Cheese Sauce Prep:
Bring heavy cream and milk to a boil. Slowly whisk in all the cheeses. Keep an eye on the sauce and continue to stir to avoid the cheese sticking to the bottom of the pan before melting. While the sauce is simmering, sautée lobster pieces with the minced garlic. Salt and pepper to taste. With the butter, cook lobster stirring constantly for about 3 to 4 minutes (watch carefully; don't overcook the lobster).

Assemble:
Take a large mixing bowl, mix macaroni and lobster meat, and pour cheese sauce all over the macaroni. Stir in the two egg yolks and a dash of salt and pepper and chopped parsley (don't be shy with the cheese sauce).

Take the macaroni mixture and stuff the lobster shells with the macaroni filling. Sprinkle the top of the lobster macaroni with more cheese. Bake at 350 degrees for 10 minutes.

And there you have it:  Lobster mac 'n cheese stuffed lobster tails.

Feb. 25, 2015 - Recently, I was invited to a private media dinner at RA Sushi, to try their new menu items and cocktails. One of my favorites was the chili garlic shrimp, and I thoroughly enjoyed my lychee margarita. The spicy shrimp tempura was battered and tossed in chili ponzu sauce, served on sautéed bok choy and garlic, topped with scallions, garlic chips, and fried ramen. This would be a great starter to any meal. As for my drink, the lychee margarita was a perfect pairing with my dish.

Feb. 12, 2015 - When you first walk into The Luminary, you are immediately attracted to the bright fluorescent lights, exposed pipes, and classic white tile. Owner and chef, Eli Kirshtein (of 'Top Chef Las Vegas'), has worked extremely hard to keep the classic brasserie style and combine it with contemporary Atlanta design.

The Luminary features a classically inspired menu, large raw bar, craft beer, and cocktail program -- and this place takes cocktails very seriously. Kirshtein recently hired Jeff Banks to be in charge of the cocktail program, which is amazing. There's nothing better than a custom cocktail menu. My favorite has to be the Pear Necessity. I am a huge fan of Old Fourth Ward vodka.

Some of the menu must-trys: beef tartare, chicken liver mousse, peel-and-eat shrimp, and roasted chicken hearts.

The Luminary is located in Historic Krog Market. (And there's nothing I love more than a restaurant with history.)

Also see: 'Top Chef' Eli Kirshtein's Favorite Restaurants

Jan. 23, 2015 - Atlanta is growing, especially in Buckhead! New restaurant to check out: Le Bilboquet. New York native, Chef Jean Louis Sangare (pictured), has come to join the Atlanta team, and after more than 16 years with Le Bilboquet in New York City, his culinary artistry and a multicultural perspective is what he brings to the kitchen of the Buckhead location.

Sangare’s earliest culinary memory occurred as a young boy while ordering "steak au poivre rare" at a restaurant in Paris. Unfamiliar with the term “rare,” Sangare became distraught after cutting into the undercooked meat and vowed to learn how to cook so he would never be surprised again. This desire to work in the kitchen presented cultural challenges, as his African roots suggest cooking as a female duty. Motivated by the creativity and passion of internationally recognized chef, Jacques Pépin, Sangare overcame this cultural obstacle and pursued a career in the culinary arts.

After earning his culinary certificate at the École de l’Hotellerie in Côte d'Ivoire in 1997, Sangare traveled to the United States to begin his career. He began as a line cook at Le Bilboquet in New York City where he was given the opportunity to train with notable chefs. While the restaurant underwent renovations in 2013, Sangare garnered additional experience around the city as managerial sous chef at The Pierre Hotel, culinary consultant at Le Chat Noir, and private chef and caterer for several personalities such as Longchamps, Tincati Milano, Ted DiBiase, and Bjorn Aaserod.

During his 16 years at Le Bilboquet, Sangare has developed and maintained classic French recipes for the restaurant including the acclaimed “poulet Cajun” dish (which I will be featuring the recipe for soon). In an industry saturated with talent, Sangare stands apart with his commitment to creativity, willingness, and discipline. He continues to emulate Pépin in many ways, namely with the artistic presentation of food, and strives to elicit surprise on the faces of his guests as they gaze at the decorative presentation on their plates and savor every last bite. 

Jan. 15, 2015 - The North meets Southern fried chicken and lobster mac-and-cheese? Crab cake eggs Benedict? Black tiger shrimp pad Thai noodles? If any of these items sound intriguing, then you may want to add Poor Calvin's to your bucket list. Located in Midtown Atlanta, Poor Calvin’s is all about inspired cuisine with Thai and Asian roots and a Southern accent. This establishment serves a blend of classic dishes with an eclectic flair of American and Asian fusion. Owner and chef, Calvin Phan, has spent years overseas and has used influences from eastern flavors and western techniques to create a very distinctive menu and creative dishes.

All the desserts are made in-house. So with that being said, make sure to try the Mountain Fuji Apple dessert, which is a caramel Fuji apple, covered with homemade caramel, dark chocolate, drizzled with white chocolate and nuts. This awesome dessert also comes as a martini. Your taste buds will definitely be elated.

In addition to a great meal and mouthwatering desserts and cocktails, guests can enjoy a free Uber ride to and from Poor Calvin’s to any Midtown or Downtown Atlanta hotel! Simply call ahead to reserve your ride. It doesn't get any better than that.

Dec. 3, 2015 - I was in a rush one evening to attend a friend's birthday dinner when I received a text that said, 'Don't forget to pick up the cupcakes.' Of course I had completely forgotten. Already stressed and frustrated in 5 pm Atlanta traffic, I searched 'cupcakes' online. Just my luck! Cupcake Endulgers Boutique popped right up. What made it even better is that this cupcake boutique offers drive-thru service. I was beyond thrilled! The Cinnamon Toast Crunch, vanilla criss cross, and bourbon pecan pie cupcakes were a hit. They were so moist and flavorful. You can't enjoy just one.

Nov. 11, 2015 - Biltong Bar comes to Ponce City Market from restaurateur Justin Anthony, who is also the owner of South African-inspired places like 10 Degrees South and Yebo. Biltong Bar features organic, all-natural beef jerky, and other specialty jerky meats. In addition to a retail shop, the counter-service restaurant offers gourmet pies, salads, craft beer, cocktails, and a full wine list featuring a variety of South African blends. With an industrial build and contemporary design, Biltong Bar creates an enjoyable atmosphere within the famed Ponce City Market Central Food Hall.

Oct. 28, 2015 - Looking for a stellar burger joint that both you and the kids can enjoy? Grindhouse Killer Burgers has what you need and more. They also have a Rugrats menu with a hot dog, mini beef burger, or veggie burger that the kiddos can choose from. Each meal comes with a small order of fries and a drink for only $5.50! Grindhouse Burgers opened their doors in 2009, but this second location is considered the flagship. Previously a fuel station, it happens to be my favorite. It has an old, rustic vintage feel with tons of character. Five years and three more locations later, they still are a must-visit. Parents can also enjoy a monster burger and a beverage or two with their full local beer menu and cocktails. The patio makes for a great space to share great conversation. You can sit inside or outside under a covered patio or in the sun!

Aug. 3, 2015 - My favorite restaurants to cover are those with tons of history and an amazing backstory. After doing some research, I was shocked to realize that I had not dined at The Swan Coach House in Buckhead. I have passed this restaurant over the years countless times. When I finally dined there, I had the time of my life!

I went with my knowledgeable tour guide and director, Jonathan. He really helped me appreciate this amazing place. Every piece of furniture inside of this historic gem has a story. If you have time during a long lunch break, you should make it your duty to stop by. It truly is an Atlanta landmark and the definition of Southern charm.

Operated by the Forward Arts Foundation, The Swan Coach House is a non-profit restaurant in which all of the proceeds go to supporting the visual arts in Atlanta. The FAF was founded in 1965 by 12 women whose dynamic leadership was matched by their determination to transform the the carriage house of the original estate into what we have today, which is a thriving restaurant, gift shop, and art gallery. The FAF supports cultured programming and individual artists through grants and a variety of other programs. The Swan Coach House is an Atlanta tradition for updated sophistication and flair; When you walk in, you will see tons of ladies who are part of various parties in progress. Initially, this swanky restaurant was a women's only club.  Years later, they opened the club to men.

Shockingly, The Swan Coach House only offers lunch Monday through Friday 11 am - 2 pm, and afternoon tea.  For the location, the price is extremely reasonable. The menu has an amazing chicken salad sandwich that has been offered for over 50 years, served with a frozen fruit salad on the side. It's light and filled with fresh chicken and minimal mayo, which was a plus in my book. The frozen fruit salad caught me by surprise because I had never heard of it. I tried it, and it was simply delightful, similar to frozen yogurt with fruit.

I also enjoyed the cheeseburger, which was recently added to the menu. To say that it was absolutely incredible would be an understatement. It was 8 ounces of Angus beef perfection served on a crescent roll bun with lettuce and tomato. I decided to live a little, and in true Southern style, added pimento cheese, crispy bacon, and caramelized onions. It was so incredible! If you want to try something lighter, the Monte Cristo is just for you. What I love most about this dish is that the French toast is not too sweet, and layered perfectly with ham, mustard, and cheese.

Make sure to try the mint julep. This classic recipe has been around for decades. It's super simplistic, yet enjoyable. Bourbon, sweetened with a touch of sugar and fresh mint.

If you aren't able to dine in, you are more than welcome to order To-Go. The To-Go menu offers handmade frozen meals for those with a busy schedule.

The Swan Coach House is a perfect venue for weddings, bridal luncheons, bridal showers, and any event that calls for elegance, style, grace, and taste.

July 15, 2015 - This year's Fourth of July was awesome. Well, minus the rain. Nevertheless, I was around family enjoying BBQ, watching fire works, drinking wine, and enjoying this awesome corn salad dish (pictured). My friends and family love potlucks. I was able to snag this recipe from Milla Williams, founder of Happily Eating. Milla attended culinary school at Le Cordon Bleu in 2009, and launched her blog with hopes of sharing her recipes. Milla says she finds comfort and  joy when she's able to create something tasty and then share it with friends and family.

"I would serve this as a side dish to BBQ or as a topper for mashed potatoes or even a salad when the mixture is cold," says Milla. I love this dish as a salad. And it doesn't take that long to prepare. Of course, I went overboard with my use of bacon. I picked up all my ingredients from the Atlanta State Farmers Market:

Ingredients needed:
*Serves 2

1 1/2 cups of frozen corn
4 slices of bacon (cooked and crumbled)
1/3 cup of Scallion (green onion)
2 Tablespoons of Extra-Virgin olive oil
Kosher salt and black pepper (to taste)

1. In a large pot bring some water to a simmer then add corn and cook for about 3-5 mins.
2. Remove the corn from the water and drain.
3. In a medium-sized bowl mix corn, bacon, scallion, olive oil, salt and pepper, and serve.

June 17, 2015 - Father's Day is this Sunday, and if you're looking for a recipe to impress your Dad, look no further. This recipe for grilled hanger steak with a grain mustard crust and bourbon braised Cipollini onions is compliments of Cobb Galleria Centre Executive Chef Nicholas Walker. I am sure your dad will thank you! Enjoy!

Grain Mustard Crust
- 1/4 cup whole-grain mustard
- 3 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh tarragon, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, finely chopped
- Coarse sea salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
In a small bowl, mix together the mustard, olive oil, tarragon, salt, black pepper and thyme. Apply to well-trimmed hanger steak, allow marinating with crust for 1 hour before cooking.

To Grill Prepared Hanger Steak (Cleaned and Prepped)
Place steaks on preheated grill on med high heat, and grill steaks to the temperature of 125-130F (internal temp). Allow to rest 10-15 minutes. Slice and serve with Braised Onions.

Bourbon Braised Cipollini Onions – Makes 6 Servings
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 1/2 pounds Cipollini onions, peeled
- 1 cup chicken stock or broth
- 3/4 cup bourbon or other good-quality whiskey
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon dark brown sugar
- 1 clove whole garlic
- 1 sprig fresh thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- 4 tablespoons beef stock
- Pinch salt
- Pinch cracked black pepper
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley

Melt the butter in a large, ovenproof saucepan over a medium flame. Preheat the oven to 350ºF. Add the onions to the butter and cook for about 20 minutes, until they are nicely browned. Add the sugar, bourbon, vinegars, bay leaf, garlic, thyme, peppercorns, and stocks, and bring to a simmer.

Place the pan in the oven and cook for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, until the onions are soft. Remove the onions from the pan with a slotted spoon. Reduce the sauce over low heat until it starts to thicken, about 1 hour. Season with salt and pepper, and reheat the onions in the sauce. Add additional tablespoon of butter and chopped parsley.

June 1, 2015 - Finally summer is here!  *Inserts scream.* That means outside patio dining, spring cocktails, and warm summer nights. Today I decided to visit Calle Latina, which is known for its "eat on the street" concept and authentic southern American cuisine.

On this particular occasion, I stopped by for lunch. The restaurant was very inviting and the energy drew me in. When I first walked up, the patio was calling my name. It was a warm summer day, and the patio table was positioned perfectly towards the sun. I looked at the menu quickly because I was overwhelmed and hungry. Everything looked absolutely incredible!

I finally made my decision to go with the La de Pernil Tacos. These tacos were served on a soft flour tortilla and topped with piled-high spicy braised pork shoulder, habanero mango slaw, and goat cheese. The tacos were as amazing as the photo. The braised pork should was very tender, full of flavor, and extremely rich. Paired with a homemade Sangria, I couldn't have been a happier camper. I am excited to return for dinner!

May 11, 2015 - There are a lot of places that offer decent bar food. But where do you go for AWESOME bar food? Or for Asian-inspired bar food with an extensive list of local beers? You might want to head to Pijiu Belly. Located in West Midtown, this restaurant opened in December 2014. Their menu is unique with various hints of Asian flair.

If you're a fan of local Atlanta restaurant Noodle, then you're sure to fall in love with Pijiu Belly. They both are owned by the same team. When I dined, I enjoyed some scrumptious items:

Thai Tater Tots: I like cilantro, and I love sweet potato tater tots, so I was confident that this combination would be a win. Always trust your gut instinct because this dish was amazing!  It was the perfect blend of sweet and spicy, topped with Sriracha mayo.

Rotisserie Chicken: This chicken was dry rubbed and slow-cooked for hours. It was so succulent and tasty - even more delicious with their signature barbecue sauce!  With the jasmine rice, I couldn't eat the entire quarter chicken. Thank goodness for doggie bags!

Pork Belly Dumplings: The presentation for this appetizer caught my attention. Approximately eight dumplings piled perfectly high and balanced on a bed of salad, well-seasoned and fried to perfection. I could have asked for more.

Make sure you try the wine Kung-Fu Girl. This award-winning Riesling has white stone fruit, white peach, and apricot. It was cool and delicious. It also had Fuji apple, shiro plum, and lime leaves. It's perfect with spicy curries, Thai food, or Chinese-style barbecue.

Pijiu Belly also offers brunch. Build-your-own omelets, Challah French toast with mixed fruit and powdered sugar, or hangover soup: spicy tomato broth with sun noodles, fried egg, peppers, onions, celery, garlic, and horseradish. Not to mention mimosas and bellinis.

May 6, 2015 - Mother's Day is this Sunday!  This year, my family opted for a pot luck.  I have so many siblings, and we are all very competitive, so of course my dish has to be the best. I decided to speak with executive chef M.G. Farris about a recipe.

Spring is in full effect, so what's better than a tuna tartare and pickled cucumbers? You may ask: Who is Chef Farris? Well, Chef Farris is a graduate of the prestigious New England Culinary Institute (NECI). Farris has worked at notable establishments in Cape Town, South Africa, New York, and Atlanta. After two years of training and hands-on experience at NECI, he completed a six-month internship at Villa Via Granger Bar and Hotel in Cape Town. His experiences in South Africa included serving as a private chef for Angela Bassett and Danny Glover during their filming visit. Farris has enjoyed delighting guests with his deceptively "simplistic style cuisine."  Entrees with unpretentious descriptions dazzle guests with their breathtaking presentations and intense flavors, textures, and sensations. Farris’ creativity is not limited to menu items. For guests who wish to design a menu tailored to their events, Farris declares, “Here, I am in my element. You tell me what you are looking for and where you want to take it, and I will make it happen - guaranteed."  I love his passion for food and how creative he is with dishes.

This recipe is sure to be a hit. I am purchasing my items for this meal at one of the best local markets in town: Lucy's. This market is really like no other. Lucy's carries some really good prepared foods. And their wine selection is bigger each time I visit. You have a vast selection of fresh flowers, delicious local food, stunning holiday decor, and wine for all of your entertaining needs. And while you are there, make sure you view the gift baskets. They are customized to your needs no matter the occasion. Happy Mothers Day!

Tuna Tartar With Ginger Vinaigrette and Pickled Cucumbers

Vinaigrette: Yields 1 cup
2oz fresh lime juice
3 tbsp fresh ginger juice
3-4 splashes Tobasco
1 tbsp minced shallots
1 clove garlic mashed to a paste
3/4 c grapeseed oil 
TT salt
TT pepper 

Procedure: Combine the first three ingredients together. Form an emulsion by slowly adding the oil until thick. Fold in the shallots, the garlic, and season. 

Pickled Cucumber:
2c water
1 1/4 c sugar
1c rice wine vinegar
2 cloves garlic
4 tbsp salt
1 tbsp mustard seed
1 tbsp black peppercorn
1 tbsp minced ginger
1 jalapeno
2 cucumbers sliced very thin
1 tbsp ground pink peppercorn

Procedure: Boil all the ingredients except the cucumber. Strain the liquid and chill. When the liquid is chilled, pour over the cucumber. Let cucumber sit in liquid until pliable and very green. Strain cucumber from liquid and reserve the liquid. Toss cucumber with pink peppercorn before serving. You may re-use the cucumber pickling brine again. The brine is good for three days.

To Serve:
Parsley chiffonade
Scallion thin sliced
Ginger vinaigrette
Wasabi cream
Pickled cucumber
Herb salad

Procedure: Place the tuna in a bowl and slowly add about 3 ounces of the vinaigrette to start. Add more if you want the flavor stronger. Season with salt and pepper. Place the pickled cucumbers around the center of the plate overlapping to make a large circle. Place the tuna tartar with the dressing on top.  Mix the herb salad with some of the dressing and place on top of the tuna. Drizzle the wasabi cream around the plate.  

*** Use the cucumber recipe to make fresh pickles during the summer for snacking or on sandwiches ***

April 20, 2015 - April 16th was National Eggs Benedict Day. As a foodie, I take my food holidays quite seriously, especially when it's one of my favorite foods.  Who doesn't love a reason to celebrate a good "eggs benny," huh?  There is no other place I would rather celebrate this holiday than at The Highland Bakery. Located in Old Fourth Ward, Midtown, Buckhead, Georgia Tech, and Emory, The Highland Bakery offers a full lunch and breakfast menu. And at each location, they open their doors bright and early.

In Atlanta, we have tons of restaurants that are stellar and that serve brunch, lunch, and dinner. However, for breakfast, there's not really a lot of spots for a good home-cooked breakfast. Yet, the few we do have are out of this world. The Highland Bakery is definitely one of those great breakfast places. They always deliver and leave you wanting more.

On any given weekend, you are guaranteed to have a wait time of at least 15 to 20 minutes, and that's on a good day. I don't know if it's the sweet smell of freshly baked scones or if it's the cheery staff at 7am, but you definitely feel the happiness in this environment.

This restaurant offers a variety of breakfast options with an impressive selection of Eggs Benedict. Being in the South, it was only appropriate that they offered a Fried Chicken Benedict.  You also have additional options such as Country Fried Steak Benedict, Cowboy Benedict, and last but not least, my favorite, the Crabcake Benedict. It's severed with an abundant amount of potatoes and grits. The grits are so creamy and the potatoes are nicely seasoned. This dish is my favorite because the crab cakes aren't too fishy and it's lightly breaded just the way I like it. The eggs are poached to perfection, which makes this dish even more amazing.

When you order, make sure to add their freshly baked blueberry crumble cake, muffins, or cinnamon rolls to your meal. With a delicious and filling breakfast from The Highland Bakery, your day will definitely be starting off on the right foot.  Happy Eggs Benedict Day!

Photo credit: Eliu on Tumblr

April 9, 2015 - There is nothing I appreciate more than finding a new restaurant, or a hidden gem as I like to call it. When I initially stopped by to visit Stationside, I definitely was surprised because I never knew that this place even existed. This modern eatery has been open for three years prior to my discovery.

The restaurant is directly attached to Terminal West, which is a 7,000-square-foot music and special events venue. Last month the venue hosted hit group Imagine Dragons. Stationside is open for lunch Tuesday-Friday from 11am-2pm, and for dinner on nights when Terminal West is having a show. The actual restaurant is quite open and has high ceilings and classic photos of artists that have performed at Terminal West. During the summer, the patio is going to be a must-visit. It’s spacious location offers plenty of seating and has a full bar. It also has a great view of the trains.

Although the restaurant serves meat, executive chef, Dan Brown, made sure Stationside's menu features many vegetarian and vegan options with highlights including the compressed Granny Smith Apple salad (aged Cabot cheddar, local hydro lettuce, pistachio, whole grain mustard vinaigrette) and smoked tofu BLT (tofu bacon, Bibb lettuce, heirloom tomato, pimento cheese, basil tofu mayo). Additionally, almost all menu items can be made gluten-free.

When I stopped by for lunch, the entire menu looked enticing. My sandwich, Mary Got A Little Hungry, had an interesting name and made me very curious to see what Mary ate. It's a yummy braised lamb topped with mint pistachio pesto, grape tomato, fennel, arugula, pickled shallots, feta, and yogurt. When I first saw the sandwich, it immediately reminded me of a gyro. The lamb was well-seasoned and extremely tender. The mint pesto was perfect with the succulent garlic pepper seasoning. It was scrumptious, and I was stuffed after eating only half of the sandwich. After eating my sandwich, I couldn't blame Mary for being a little hungry. 

April 2, 2015 - I discovered this bistro when I was happy-hour hopping. One of the things that caught my attention was their happy hour special: $1 glasses of wine (Update: Now for hotel guests only). All I need is ten bucks, and I'm sure I'll leave with change. Great special, right? Well, now their happy hour is from 5-6:30pm, and it features $5 cocktails and $5 small appetizer plates.

One of my favorite things about their cocktail menu is that they have four Georgia Peach-themed cocktails. In the summer, when the weather is warmer and cocktails are cold, I'll enjoy sipping on a Peachtree Street White Sangria while sitting on the outdoor patio overlooking Peachtree Street. Being a lover of red sangria, I definitely took a chance trying the white. I was nervous about trying the drink because I didn't want the peach flavoring to be overbearing. I couldn't have been more wrong. The drink wasn't too fruity.

For those of you who aren't into fruity drinks, but you prefer a drink with dark liquor, then The Ellis Perfect Manhattan is perfect for you. Made for those who like a classic cocktail, it has Maker's Mark, bitters, dry vermouth, and sweet vermouth with an orange and cherry garnish.

The team at Terrace Bistro were, oh, so pleasant that they also provided a simple recipe for a coffee-lover's martini, too:

The Ellis Hotel's Chic Espresso Martini

Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 oz Kahlua
- 1 1/2  oz Smirnoff Vodka (or any vodka of choice)
- 1 oz cream
- 1/2 oz Tia Maria
- 1/2 oz coffee liqueur

Preparation:
Combine all into a shaker with lots of ice. Shake vigorously, and strain into a chilled martini glass. Should be a little frothy. Finish with dollop of fresh whip cream and top with a few coffee beans. 

March 9, 2015 - When you mention the top three locations in Atlanta that are considered "foodie havens," Downtown Decatur is often overlooked. I consider Downtown Decatur a gem. There are a variety of restaurants no matter what your cuisine preference may be. Everything is in walking distance from MARTA, or you can park and walk at least two blocks to many of the restaurants. Also, there are tons of activities and entertainment in and near "The Square."  Much of Downtown Decatur has tons of character and culture. One place that you may have driven by several times and not even noticed that it was there is Victory Sandwich Bar on Church Street.

The atmosphere at this eatery is extremely laid back and mixed with vintage flair. The entire staff wears T-shirts, jeans, Converse sneakers, and they have tattoos. There is a ping-pong table in the back of the restaurant where you can enjoy a game or two while waiting to dine, or you can play just for fun. During the summer months, the patio is packed. This place is a go-to spot that everyone goes to, especially if you are fond of people-watching.

Although their menu changes quite often, they have a variety of one-of-a-kind sandwiches. Being known for their hot press panini-style sandwiches is one of them. You can only remove ingredients from all of the sandwiches. There are no add-ons. The sandwiches come as is. And you may want to order a side item to accompany your meal, or you may want to add another sandwich (because they are small in size).

My favorite is the Beast On Yeast. Pot roast is my kryptonite. Whenever I enjoy a pot roast sandwich, I pray that the sandwich isn't too moist or too wet. That was the complete opposite with this particular sandwich. The pot roast was tender and marinated in its natural juice, and it was not too wet. I could taste the garlic, onion, and basil that the meat was cooked in, and it was served on a slightly toasted bun topped with horseradish sauce.  It was quite filling and had great bold flavor. The sandwich was larger than a slider, but smaller than an actual burger. It was comfort food at its finest.
Did you know that pimento cheese is known as "the caviar of the South"? Being a cheese fanatic, I was immediately intrigued by this appetizer. It was topped with thick pieces of diced bacon and a sweet honey puree served with crackers. This appetizer is served chilled, and the jam is very smooth and has the perfect amount of mayo, cheese, and diced tomatoes.  It's ideal for any pimento cheese lover.

The Tubthumper. Yes, you read that correctly. For you '90s babies, you may recognize this word from the group Chumbawamba's hit song "Tubthumper." I stopped in a few weeks ago, and I had a sore throat. So the server suggested that I try this particular drink. It's their special rendition of a hot toddy. They replaced the tea with hot apple cider and added rum, honey, whisky, cinnamon, and lemon. Prior to taking your first sip, the aroma of cinnamon and whiskey take over. It's a strong drink perfect for a cold day.

Last, but not least, Jack and Coke slushies. Last year on a hot summer day, a good friend suggested that we stop by Victory Sandwich Bar for Jack and Coke slushies. Not being a huge dark liquor drinker, I reluctantly agreed.  The drink was very smooth; however, the flavor of Jack Daniel's was strong in my opinion. When mixed as a slushy, it's an awesome and refreshing drink especially for those that are not plain whiskey drinkers.

Bon Appetite! 

Photo: Courtesy of Victory Sandwich Bar

Feb. 20, 2015 - Living in Atlanta, we have so many options for classic foods that chefs have successfully reinvented -- and there is nothing better than a reinvented burger. 

When you visit Zinburger, make sure you try the namesake Zinburger. It's created with manchego cheese, zinfandel-braised onions, lettuce, and mayo. They have nothing but the best ingredients (the manchego cheese is imported from Spain). These mouthwatering burgers are extremely juicy, full of flavor, and will leave your stomach completely satisfied. 

Zinburger is one of my go-to spots when I'm craving a divine burger and wine. Their menu includes more than 20 varieties of affordably priced wines from $5.50 to $12.50 a glass, or $21 to $49 a bottle.

Jan. 21, 2015 - “Fried chicken and Champagne? Why the hell not!” Who wouldn't love that awesome concept. Being a huge fan of all things bubbly, I was immediately intrigued by this signature motto. MAX's Wine Dive is Midtown's new signature wine bar that is really like none other. The must-try at this ingenious restaurant is the amazing pairing of bubbly Champagne and hot fried chicken.

Now, there’s a reason that these two make the perfect duo! Champagne is highly acidic and served cold; fried chicken is hot, crispy, and juicy with just the right amount of fat. The two together are a match made in culinary heaven, as the acidity from the bubbly cuts through the richness of the fried chicken. This pairing goes back to the early 1800s in France.

MAX’s didn't invent this union; however, they perfected it! Freshness is a must at MAX's Wine Dive. Everything is made in-house daily except for the ketchup. Although they're known for their fried chicken, their menu has plenty of enjoyable options for any diet. They are one of the few restaurants that offer gluten-free fried chicken. They also have a Friday brunch. From glasses of Moet & Chandon to Amici Cellars of Napa Valley wine, you are sure to find something on their delectable menu.

Nov. 24, 2015 - Finally the holiday season is upon us. I am elated about spending time with my family, enjoying spiked-pumpkin eggnog, and trying new recipes. This holiday season I'm going to purchase a lot of cooking items from Brookhaven Farmer's Market. One of the main reasons why this farmer's market is one of my favorites is because they provide locally sourced foods. They offer some of the freshest produce in town, and their prices are extremely reasonable.

For dessert I am going to be creating mini cheesecakes so that we can enjoy them after our hearty Thanksgiving meal. This delightful recipe was given to me by Alex Mullen of Verbal Gold Blog. The best thing about this recipe is that there is a gluten-free option. Who can really say no to cheesecake? Since the recipe is small in portion, you can monitor the kiddies' sugar intake, and it's easier to execute into your mouth. I am certain that this cheesecake will be a hit with my family.

Alex Mullen's Gluten-Free Mini Cheesecakes

Prep Time: 20 Minutes
Cook Time: 20 Minutes
Chill Time: ~2 Hours
Total Time: ~3 Hours

What you will need:
· Mini Cupcake Pan
· Mini Cupcake Liners

For the almond flour crust:
· 1 1/4 cup almond flour
· 1/4 cup granulated sugar or raw sugar
· Pinch of salt
· 1 tablespoon lemon zest (from 1 lemon)
· 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (slightly melted and cooled)

(If you prefer graham cracker crust):
· 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
· 1/3 cup granulated sugar, raw sugar, or brown sugar
· 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

For the filling:
· 1 pound (lb) of reduced fat cream cheese (16 oz - usually two square containers)
· 1/2 cup granulated sugar or raw sugar
· 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
· Pinch of salt
· 2 large eggs, room temperature

For decoration (optional):
· Berries and/or powdered sugar

1. Preheat oven to 350 F. Line your mini-muffin pan with 12 muffin liners. (If you end up having extra with your ingredients or filling, feel free to make more!)
2. Prepare the crust. In a medium mixing bowl, mix together almond flour, sugar, pinch of salt, and lemon zest (for which you can use a zester or grater). Then stir in the butter and mix until thoroughly combined.
3. Divide the crust mixture into each liner (3 1/2 teaspoons of crust mixture per liner) and lightly press down with the bottom of a shot glass.
4. Bake just the crust for 10 minutes, or until very lightly browned. Remove from the oven and cool for at least 10 minutes while preparing the filling.
5. Now filling preparation! Using an electric hand mixer, or stand mixer if you have either, beat together the cream cheese and sugar at medium speed until light and creamy. (If you do not have one of these, use a whisk and do by hand.) Add the vanilla and pinch of salt, and beat until thoroughly combined. Beat the eggs on low, one at a time. Be careful not to over mix.]
6. Fill each cupcake liner about 2/3 full with the batter on top of the crust, and bake for 10 minutes, or until the centers of the cheesecakes do not jiggle when the pan is tapped.
7. Open the oven door (at least 1 foot wide) and let the cheesecakes cool to room temperature - about 1 - 1 1/2 hours. (You can shut the oven off for this). For easiest removal of the cheesecakes, remove the paper liners now. They can also be removed after chilling, but the cheesecake and crust is more likely to stick then. Chill for at least 2 hours before serving.

Decorate with berries and dust with powdered sugar, if desired. You can refrigerate for up to 4 days, and these work well to freeze as well.

Nov. 9, 2015 - Growing up in Lawrenceville, Georgia, I knew every Saturday morning I would be treated to a tasty and fresh hot buttery biscuit with a sausage patty, melted American cheese, and a fried egg from the Little Barn. I now live in Atlanta, and the commute to Lawrenceville seems like it takes years. I had a meeting one day in Lawrenceville, so it was a must that I stop by a special place while there -- the Little Barn.

What I appreciate most about the Little Barn is that they are a local business that's been open since 1993. They serve over 180,000 people each year. Former Central Gwinnett Black Knights and Gwinnett girls like myself have many memories of this place; from football game days, to long, off-campus lunches at Central Gwinnett High School for that delectable biscuit.

The Little Barn's motto is "Cooking better than your Mama" and they definitely live up to it. They offer home-cooked country food and the biggest and best biscuits for breakfast. What more could you ask for? No matter what type of biscuit you desire, you will be able to find it at the Little Barn. The Philly steak, bacon, red link, bologna, crab cake, or sausage are some of their best sellers. Also, their prices are beyond reasonable! A coffee and sausage egg and cheese biscuit will cost you less than $6.

In addition to biscuits, they also offer breakfast plates such as homestyle Georgia BBQ for lunch.  I often find myself making trips to Lawrenceville, which means I am hooked to the Little Barn once again. Make sure the next time you're in Lawrenceville, you stop by. I'm sure you'll get hooked too.

Oct. 6, 2015 - As a board member of the Association of Food Bloggers, Atlanta's premier food society, I recently met with other board members in Sandy Springs at The Brickery Grill & Bar. Once again, another restaurant I can't believe I've been missing out on! Open since 1992, it's a Sandy Springs favorite. Many of the patrons literally grew up eating here, and now they are bringing their children.

I met the owner, Bruce, who is simply amazing. He has such a passion for food and his business, and his energy is quite contagious. He made sure to suggest the House Caesar Burger. Initially, I was thinking, absolutely not. I really couldn't picture how Caesar dressing would taste on top of a beef patty. Well, Bruce isn't anyone you can say no to. I tried the burger, and I loved it! It was layered with shredded lettuce, grated cheese, and creamy Parmesan Caesar dressing. The dressing was more cheese than Caesar sauce, and it wasn't overbearing. It was surprisingly very tasty!

Each time I see Blue Cheese Chips (pictured) on a menu, I must have them. Not only was the presentation wonderful, but this appetizer was delightful. I adore the warm kettle chips piled high topped with melted blue cheese crumbles, Gorgonzola cheese crumbles, and chives.  The Barely-Battered Shrimp is just that. The shrimp had minimal breading, and they are a decent size, fried to perfection and served with cocktail sauce.

If you can believe it, I had room for dessert. I never turn down a peach cobbler, especially when the description reads "Homemade Cobbler: May be peach, may be blackberry, and always homemade, and served warm with vanilla ice cream."  I mean, who can say no to that? I couldn't, and I am glad that I didn't. This peach cobbler was the perfect blend of cinnamon and nutmeg with plenty of peaches served hot with vanilla bean ice cream!  It did not disappoint. Needless to say, I was a happy camper.

Sept. 11, 2015 - Back in July I attended Downtown Restaurant Week -- what I love most is that it's a friendly reminder of the impressive restaurants we have in Downtown Atlanta. It makes you add even more places to your foodie bucket list, and I am really happy I decided to pay Ray's In The City a visit.

I dined at this fabulous restaurant on a Friday evening. There was a classic jazz band performing ... the ambiance was upbeat and very romantic. For food, Ray's has the freshest flown-in daily seafood, premium steaks, and you will love the variety of their sushi and oyster bar. I had a few moments of panic and intense decision-making; everything looked so tempting!

I am happy I didn't have to chose an appetizer. The chef treated me to a classic steak tartare with the freshest scallops and ginger. The tartare was so rich with a hint of spiciness. The raw egg was the perfect touch. My I-75 cocktail was unique, with a house-made cucumber ice cube plus Tanqueray gin, prosecco, basil, lemon, lime. It was my favorite cocktail of the evening.

For dinner I had best of the both worlds. I ordered the broiled seafood platter, served with an overload of Canadian lobster tail, fresh fish, shrimp, scallops, and jumbo lump crab cake. And I know everyone has various rules about ordering steak from a seafood restaurant. I say live a little and try a steak at Ray's In The City. I ordered the 8-ounce filet mignon topped with bleu cheese crumbles and an order of blackened colossal shrimp. My perfectly cooked filet was a barrel-cut, 21-day wet-aged and top-quality Midwestern grain-fed beef. Lots of flavor, and it was very tender.  I was blown away by how HUGE my shrimp were. I was stuffed. No need for dessert -- but I did get to see the menu on an iPad. Nice touch.

July 28, 2015 - Last Sunday I stopped by Big Sky Buckhead to try their new brunch menu, created by 'Top Chef' winner Hector Santiago. I was excited to say the least. One of my favorite things about this place in the heart of Buckhead is the patio. It's huge and has an awesome view of the city. I don't know what your definition is of Sunday Funday, but as long as I have bottomless mimosas, mouthwatering food, and a DJ jamming, I am a happy camper. That's exactly what Big Sky Buckhead offers and more.

The brunch menu offers about seven or eight options. The chicken biscuit immediately caught my attention. I was not disappointed with my selection. The chicken biscuit is served on a fluffy bacon, cheddar-jalapeño biscuit and topped with a hot fried chicken tender, runny egg, melted cheddar cheese, and served with homefries. It was very filling, and the biscuit was divine. Simply put: Everything was delish!

Huge thanks to Anish Patel of Play ATL for this awesome suggestion. I can't wait to return!

July 8, 2015 - I first noticed The General Muir as I was headed to Tin Lizzy's at Emory Point. I had never seen this restaurant before, so it immediately sparked my interest. Being the foodie that I am, the next day I visited The General Muir with a mission. I wanted to see what this restaurant had to offer. In my mind, it was already starting on the right track because it was new and wasn't a so-called "chain restaurant". When I first walked into The General Muir, I felt like I had just walked into a New York City diner. The decor and ambiance definitely gives you a New-York feeling. I'm a city girl at heart, and was pleased with the visual vibe that I got when I walked in.

From the pictures on the wall to the layout, The General Muir impressed me. I love the fact that it has a deli, bar, and dining room serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and their menu gives you a wide variety of items to choose from. Since my first visit, I have been to The General Muir on several occasions, and I have a few favorite dishes that never let me down.

One of their dishes: The Avenue A. It is a must try. It's a nova topped with schmear, avocado, grapefruit, cucumber, and onion. Once I laid eyes on this dish, I was instantly excited because I love smoked salmon and avocado. They are on the long list of my favorite foods. It was great, though I'm not a huge fan of grapefruit. But all in all, the melody of all the ingredients combined is pure genius.

Another one of my favorites is the arugula salad. This delectable salad is topped with smoked trout, beets, onions, and served with a horseradish vinaigrette. This meal is nice and light, which is great because I don't like that overly full sensation. Your taste buds will love this dish because it's definitely packed full of flavor.

If you do decide to stop by The General Muir, please try the kale tomato soup. It's so scrumptiously wonderful, and you will not be disappointed. This restaurant has turned out to be one my favorite places to dine, one of those eateries that's impossible not love. I'm always left with a good impression because the food is always fresh, and there is nothing I appreciate more than fresh food along with great service.There isn't another restaurant like it in the city of Atlanta.

June 12, 2015 - Everyone always laughs about my foodie holidays. I mean I love food, and who doesn't love an excuse to eat an amazing dish. Well this month is National Hamburger Month, and I decided to visit one of my favorite gourmet burger boutiques, FLIP, owned by celebrity chef Richard Blais (who also hosts the YouTube show 'BurgerLab'). I can’t think of anything better than a juicy gourmet burger with a fresh side of French fries and a thick milk shake -- and I would consider myself a FlIP regular.

My favorites are the Farmer Burger (a brasstown, grass-fed beef patty, topped with tillamook aged cheddar, apple chutney, kale, and smoked mayo), the Turkey Burger (topped with Monterey cheese, crushed avocado, tomato, alfalfa sprouts, and pomegranate ketchup), and the Shrimp Burger (a shrimp patty with tempura-fried lemon, shredded iceburg, tomato, and cajun-aise).  

If you're a risk taker and a fan of tartare, the Steak Tartare Burger is topped with a fried egg, cornichons, frisee, pickled shallots, and smoked mayo, while the Raw Tuna Tartare Burger is topped with Asian pear, pine nuts, soy dressing, wasabi mayo, compressed veggies, mango sphere, and avocado puree. Both burgers are unique in their own way, but I recommend that you try both!

Besides awesome burgers, FLIP Burger Boutique also serves awesome and delicious milkshakes, and they serve cocktails such as Red Sangria, which is delectable.Their burgers are a la carte, and you have the options of fries served with smoked mayo and ketchup, onions, Brussels spouts, or sweet potato tots. 

Both locations in Atlanta (Midtown on Howell Mill Road, and Roswell Road) have awesome patios, too.

May 26, 2015 - If you're looking for authentic home-style southern food that's delicious, priced moderately, and offers great service, look no further than The Sliver Skillet. It really is a must-visit. Located in Midtown Atlanta, this establishment has been open since May 1967, after it was purchased and opened by husband and wife, George and Louise Decker. George successfully operated the restaurant for 21 years until his passing in 1988. Teresa, his daughter, continues the tradition of great service and awesome food along with her husband, Jeff.

I was always taught that if a meal is really good, it's because there was a lot of love that went into making the food.  You can definitely taste the love in their food. My favorite is the fried pork chops. They are huge, and fried and seasoned to perfection. Their biscuits are also always fluffy and extremely buttery.

When you arrive, no need to stand to wait for the hostess to seat you and your party.  All you have to do is seat yourself.  So prepare to keep your eyes and ears open, because guests are extremely quick with their seating, and in the blink of an eye, chairs and a table that you have your eyes on could be taken at a moment's notice. 

The Atlanta staple has been featured in Denzel Washington's movie, 'Remember the Titans', and The Food Network's 'Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives' hosted by Guy Fieri. 

May 8, 2015 - In April, Ms. Ann Price, owner of Ann's Snack Bar on Memorial Drive and creator of the "The World Famous Ghetto Burger," passed away at the age of 72. If you have never visited this iconic restaurant, you're really missing out. Ms. Ann was a short-tempered, no-nonsense lady, and was well known in Atlanta since her restaurant was established in 1971. In 2007, a Wall Street Journal article called the "Ghetto Burger" The Best Hamburger in America.  

The Ghetto Burger is created with two hot beef patties, melted American cheese, crispy lettuce, fresh tomatoes, chunky beef chili, bacon, and onions served on a warm toasted bun. It's impossible to not make a mess, and I'm sure that you will not be able to eat this entire burger all in one sitting. Although the wait time is kind of long once you put in your order, her burgers are simply amazing! Make sure to grab lots of napkins because this massive burger will have you on your messiest behavior!

April 28, 2015 - This week was my first time dining at Midtown's latest hot spot, Community Smith, which opened in January (and has a new rooftop bar, The Garden, opening this spring). When you initially walk into the establishment you feel like you have taken a step into a vintage New York restaurant. The brown tufted leather chairs, high ceilings, bright fluorescent lighting, and the black-and-white checkered floors definitely give the restaurant an Upper Manhattan feel.

As you make your way to the dining room, you can't help but notice a huge fox statue. As I walked closer, I noticed that it was made entirely of forks, knives, and spoons -- definitely a unique piece. The restaurant ran a social media contest to select a name for the fox on display, and the name that came out on top was "Dash."

The menu took me by surprise, and has a little bit of everything -- I have never seen oxtail toast or popcorn ice cream on any menu in Atlanta. And I enjoyed the following:

First Course:  Crispy Squid (smoked paprika, tahini, and green olives)
I was a little nervous about the squid and green olives, but it worked out just fine. The squid is fried and battered to perfection. The coating was not too heavy and not too light. The green olives not only made for a nice pop of color in the photos, but the flavor gave the dish a little something extra.

Second Course:  Oxtail Toast (aged Gouda, piri piri)
I really love Gouda and oxtails, so my tastebuds were very curious. This dish was layered and nothing was held back regarding ingredients. It was slightly messy, but well worth it. The oxtail meat was spicy, well marinated, and the juices made the toast slightly soggy, which went great with the Gouda cheese.

Third Course:  Popcorn Ice Cream
Yes, you read that correctly! It was topped with caramel salted bites, and it really tasted like popcorn! I could have eaten an entire gallon. 

April 16, 2015 - Yesterday, I had a chance to take a tour of the Old 4th Ward Distillery, which is located in Edgewood. I, along with the residents of the area, have been extremely excited about current renovation of the area. The renovation is almost complete, and the area is really becoming trendy.

Some of the city highlights have been the new Atlanta street cart, Ponce City Market, The Belt Line, and Old Fourth Ward Distillery. How many cities can say they have they own local distillery? Not many!

Old 4th Distillery, or O4D, is the first distillery in Atlanta since prohibition in 1906. It's really easy to find and has plenty parking available. When you first walk in, you notice board games on the tables close to the windows. The main area leading into the distillery has bright lights -- it's very well lit. The size of the main area is impressive, not too big or too small. And they even offer this area for private events. During my tour I learned so much information. Of course being at a distillery, and with spring right around the corner, I received a great spring drink recipe.

O4D has one of the largest collections of Atlanta's distilling history memorabilia in the country in the tasting room. Prior to Georgia's prohibition, there were numerous distilleries in the city of Atlanta -- two were even located off of Edgewood not far from O4D. The last distillery in Atlanta was R.M. Rose Co.; however, it left the city to move to Tennessee where distilling was still legal. In 2013, O4D started a Kickstarter campaign to help raise funds to complete construction on the distillery and was able to receive 361 backers with pledges totaling $40,372. How awesome is that?

The distillery is currently producing vodka and will then introduce gin, whisky, and bourbon in the future. O4D's vodka is made from cane sugar, making it sustainable, non GMO, and gluten-free. All of O4D's products are fermented, distilled, and bottled on site by five people. Tours and tastings are offered to the public on Thursdays from 2–7pm and can be scheduled online or by phone You will not be disappointed with this vodka. It's so smooth. Make sure you try the Old Fourth Vodka with the recipe below:

The Edgewood Bloodhound
- 2 oz Old 4th Distillery vodka
- 1 oz Campari
- 3 oz Grapefruit juice

Build in cocktail glass over ice.

April 7, 2015 - Pizza has always been a guilty pleasure of mine. Whenever I am in the mood for an amazing authentic Italian pizza, fresh salad, and wine to match, I make sure to visit Don Antonio. Located in Buckhead, Don Antonio pizza is really in a league of their own. How many pizza restaurants do you know can say that they have prepared their signature pizza for the Pope? None that I can think of.

No matter what your pizza preference, Don Antiono will make sure that your pizza tastebuds are satisfied. They offer more than 60 traditional and creative, wood-fired Neapolitan pies, crafted from the finest ingredients, including homemade mozzarella. If you are interested in learning on how to perfect your own pizza, you're in luck, because they offer pizza classes too.

In addition to amazing pizza, they have tons of authentic Italian dishes for you to enjoy. The Burrata Roberto is a must-try. It's homemade burrata, grape tomatoes, basil, and extra virgin olive oil. This dish is especially delightful if you're a vegetarian.

March 27, 2015 - We all know that Georgia weather can be a bit unpredictable. The first day of spring was March 20th, but you wouldn't have been able to tell that it was the first day of spring because I was typing my blog as I wore a turtleneck while looking outside at the rain as the temperature sat at 48 degrees. But my mom has always said, "When it's chilly, it's time for chili."

I had a chance to snag an amazing chili recipe from local wine expert and food connoisseur, Lizette Leanza. Not only did she share an impressive recipe, but as an added bonus, she provided wine pairings to match. All ingredients can be purchased at our local Dekalb Farmers Market.

Lizette says, "I love experimenting with new textures and flavors! This all-beef, no-bean chili is all flavor thanks to the added appeal from a seasonal fall vegetable. When one of my biggest fans requested a chili recipe without beans, I decided to replace them with sweet, versatile butternut squash. I purposely kept the spice level low on this chili so kids can enjoy it too. But feel free to amp up the heat! Sweet squash loves the contrast of spices and smoke, so an extra chipotle or two will only make it better."

Bison Butternut Squash Chili With Goat Cheese Avocado

Ingredients:
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 sweet onion, diced
- 1 small butternut squash (1 3/4 to 2 lbs), diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 1 /4 lb ground bison, or venison
- 1-2 chipotle peppers, minced
- 14 1/2 oz can tomato with celery and bell pepper, with juices
- 4 oz can green chiles, with juices
- 1 1/2 tbsp chili powder
- 2 tsp cumin
- 1/4 tsp cinnamon
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp ground coriander
- 1 tsp sea salt
- 1/4 cup bourbon
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 6 oz tomato paste
- 1 bay leaf
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
- 1 avocado, diced
- Several goat cheese crumbles

Preparation:
In a large French oven, or stockpot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Sautée the chopped onion, butternut squash, and garlic. Season them generously with salt and freshly ground pepper. Stir the vegetables every few minutes so that they cook evenly.

Once the onions start turning translucent, add the ground meat, and stir well so that the meat is cooking on the bottom. When the ground meat has browned, add all of the spices and all other ingredients, and stir well.

Cover and cook over low for (1) to (2 1/2 hours), stirring occasionally until the butternut squash is tender. Taste the chili for spice level, and add more chipotle or other spices, if desired. Serve the chili in individual bowls. Top with diced avocado, goat cheese crumbles, fresh cilantro, and crispy tortilla strips.

Suggested Wine Pairings:
The smokiness and subtle heat in this chili call for a fruit-forward medium to full-bodied bright wine with medium tannins. Bison and other gamey meats are bold and distinctive, so you'll want a wine to match.

If you prefer red wines, try a Grenache, Malbec, Rioja, Zinfandel, or my personal favorite, a blend from the Southern Rhône.

If you're a white wine lover, look for a full bodied Chardonnay, Viognier, or Italian Vernaccia to stand up to this bold and flavorful chili.  If you do decide to amp up the heat, you'll want a softer wine to balance it like a fruity Beaujolais, or Bardolino.

March 7, 2015 - Krog Street Market has several new trendy restaurants, various original retail shops, and not to mention free Wi-Fi. With plenty of long tables for open seating, it's the ideal meeting spot. When you first walk inside, it can be slightly overwhelming because there is so much going on and so much to see. The options for dining are abundant at this market.

Typically, I am a brunch-type of girl. Brunch gives me a little leeway to sleep in. But on this particular Saturday morning, I decided to stop by to see which restaurant had a breakfast menu that would reel me in. I stumbled across The Little Tart Bakeshop.

When I walked up, the staff was extremely friendly, and they were very knowledgeable about the menu. They also call their customers by their first name, and they actually remember your name after your food order is placed. After canvassing the menu, the ham, egg, and Gruyère on brioche was love at first sight. I am a huge fan of brioche bread because it's rich, slightly sweet, and the crust is really flaky. When I order breakfast sandwiches, sometimes the egg is the only thing that you can taste. However, this sandwich was an even blend of all the ingredients. The buttery Brioche served with melted Gruyère cheese, fluffy egg, and warm maple-cured ham made my morning. The sandwich wasn't very big in size, but it was very big in taste.

Feeling adventurous, I ordered a slice of brown butter almond cake. Served at room temperature, this cake was very moist and had a unique caramel flavor. I ended my breakfast with a nice pick me up: a hot cup of cortado with a heart created on top.

This quaint French-inspired pastry shop offers a little bit of everything. They serve breakfast, lunch, and delectable pastries throughout the day. Their philosophy is that the most delicious baked goods are made with love by hand. Everything is made with local and seasonal ingredients, and you can taste it in every bite. My breakfast was delightful, and I will definitely be back to try some of the other items on their menu.

Feb. 19, 2015 - Sweet Auburn Seafood, located in historic Edgewood on Auburn Avenue, is a go-to for flavorful dishes and unique cocktails, and where the live music is the bomb every Tuesday. You can now add brunch to that list.

Executive chef Sammy Davis, Jr., has created Krispy Kreme Donut Stuffed Waffles.  And every Saturday you have the opportunity to try them.  (They're so delectable!  I'm sure that you'll order more than just one.) I love waffles as much the next person. And on this particular day, I enjoyed two waffles. They were so mouthwatering good. They weren't too sweet, and they were extremely fluffy.

If waffles aren't your thing, you have other options, such as Chesapeake eggs Benedict, steak and eggs, and quiche. They also have awesome mimosas and a unique cocktail called Berry Mojito -- the taste of the berries along with the mint is refreshing to anyone's tastebuds. 

Feb. 2, 2015 - The French-inspired restaurant is one of my favorite places for date night in Atlanta. I typically love ending my evening with delectable desserts and fantastic drinks to match. Cafe Intermezzo is perfect because they offer both, and they are open until 2am.

The ambiance is calm and intimate. Breakfast is served all day. Their menu is simple, but it's paired perfectly with their extensive drink menu. Their dessert menu is like no other: cheesecake, pies, tres leches. You name it, they offer it. Cafe Intermezzo's drink menu, or "drink bible" as I like to call it, has over 400 various cocktails, enough options for anyone. Some of my favorites are the martinis and coffee-based liquors. If you are looking for a great restaurant with plenty of character, an delightful ambiance, and a pleasant dining experience, Cafe Intermezzo needs to be added to your bucket list.  

Jan. 26, 2015 - I have been a seafood fanatic for as long as I can remember. As a child, whenever I got good grades, my reward was going to Red Lobster with my family and ordering anything on the menu. As a 10-year-old, that was a big deal. Over the years, my love for seafood has grown. And my standard for superb quality has grown as well.

One of favorite places to enjoy seafood is Spondivits. My go-to meal every time I dine there is the Steamed Seafood Platter. “Platter,” however, is an understatement. The platter comes in a bucket, and it’s overflowing with lobster tails, shrimp, king crab legs, and oysters seasoned with Old Bay seasoning. I always make sure to enjoy my platter with a cold glass of St. Michelle riesling. The Restaurant is always busy, so I suggest you arrive early.

Jan. 13, 2015 - Work. Drink. Eat. Art. Those are the first few words that come to mind when thinking of Studio No. 7. Yet all of these things are possible at one restaurant, which typically doesn't happen.

First, let's start with my favorite: art. There are various distinct paintings throughout the restaurant. Each month, a new unique exhibit is featured, as Studio No. 7 takes pride in featuring the latest groundbreaking artists. And in the gallery, there is a sipping bar where patrons can enjoy the amazing art and delicious cocktails.

Second: work. Studio No. 7 offers a monthly membership for you to work, relax, and drink, along with a menu of small bites and tea during the day. You can purchase a membership as low as $50 per month. There also is a posh 800 sq. ft. space for private events, receptions, and happy hours; not to mention a test kitchen, which is perfect for chefs looking to showcase their latest work in a private space.

Last, but certainly not least: Drink and eat! The menu at Studio No. 7 is quite impressive. Chefs Michael Stanawitz and Daniel Burke have really worked hard to make their new spring menu like none other. One of my personal menu favorites is the glazed pork belly ramen. The ramen is a combination of beef and pork broth and infused Latin flavors, which you can taste in every bite. The glazed tender seared pork belly has toasted nori, scallion, carrots, mushroom, sesame, seasonal vegetables, and soft-yolked egg added.  It is simply a divine combination!

While enjoying this nontraditional ramen, make sure you grab a cocktail from the bar. I recommend enjoying a sparkling drink called "My Other Studio Is in Paris." This uniquely named and refreshing cocktail is a combination of Half Moon gin, honey syrup, lemon, and sparkling wine. After you enjoy our meal, it's now time for dessert. You must order a "Milk & Cookies" (pictured). This spin on a childhood favorite is genius. It has Blackwell rum, house gin, sirup de cannes, milk, and... Yes, this drink is served with animal cookies. You can thank me later! Enjoy!