Wednesday, February 27, 2013

Cool ATL Beer Events on Deck this Weekend!


From Finch's Beer being served at a benefit tonight to two awesome festivals and two extras, let's kick it!

Hey y'all! I just got back from a three-week, head-spinning journey to five cities in three states. Although I loved every minute of it (look for some great pics from my travels soon), I am glad to be back in Atlanta. I always tout about how awesome the beer scene is here, and these three upcoming beer events certainly continue to prove me right! 
From helping the great local DJ Knumbskull with his bout with cancer, to two great beer festivals that step out the box when it comes to pairing beers with finger-lickin' grub, here ya go. I have already featured ATL's upcoming beer festivals for the rest of the year in my article I did with Eater.com here (thank for having me on board, Eater!), but I wanted to confirm you got the memo for this upcoming weekend. 
I also added two other crazy events that could include two activities you have never witnessed; here a hint: they both incorporate people beating the crap out of each other! Anyway, check 'em ouuuuuuut! 

First up, tonight features...
Knumbskull Vs. Cancer
Get your grove on under the spell of the world famous DJ Lord of the seminal group Public Enemy, sip some great brew thanks to Chicago's own Finch's Brewery (Whaddup Andy!), and help DJ Knumbskull with his medical bills as he kick cancer's ass! I also hear some great artists like my main man Eric Nine (AllWays Open Creative and Ericnine.com) will be showing some dope art there too! The info is in the flyers above and here on Facebook. See you there!

On Saturday, March 2nd, there are two out-of-the-ordinary beer festivals that are going on. First, Atlanta's pairing beers with food trucks' finest at the...


Inaugural Taste and Brews Festival
This should be fun as you hit up a legion of food trucks who are boasting what they consider the best meals on wheels from 1 pm to 6 pm at the Food Truck Park on 1850 Howell Mill Road. Check out the deets here.

And starting an hour later on March 1st from 2 pm to 6 pm, the other fest up the road is boasting what I call the "Killer Bs": 


Beer, Bourbon, & BBQ Festival
With more than 60 beer varieties, top-notch bourbon (they often go together since brewers age their liquid bliss in bourbon-aged barrels for more, well, blissfulness), and, of course, succulent barbecue to make us "squeal like a pig" so they say. Can you hit up both events? I surely am!

Oh, and as a bonus, there are two other events that are eyebrow raising and unlike anything I'm sure to have ever witnessed live... 


Monstrosity Championship Wrestling
The beer selection might be limited, but once a tooth flies, you will forget all about that! This is on Friday, March 1st, at Famous Pub starting at 8 pm. More info is on their Facebook page  here.

And last, how about the clash of the titans, sumo-style? 


LivingSocial's Sumo + Sushi

Yep, Japan's ancient form of body bashing is being held by Living Social at the grandiose Opera Atlanta club Saturday and Sunday. Plus, there's spicy tuna rolls, and sake galore to wash them down! I am not sure about Sapporo or Hitachino beer, though. For more details, here you go!

Look for my coverage of all the airport hopping I've been doing later, but for now, let's kick it!
Cheers!!!

Ale

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Wednesday, February 20, 2013

Who Shot Ya?! Part 1 - Cool Cars

Cool Cars, Cool Beers, Cool Folks, Cool Everythang!
The Mercedes Concept Style Coupé. Nope! Can't drive it...yet!
Part One: Cool Cars
It's been nuts these past couple of weeks traveling and all, trust me! Going through my pictures, I have met up with some cool people, slick cars, and came across some picture-worthy instances in places like Arizona, Chicago, and back in my hometown, the awesome city of Atlanta. In this post, it's about the hot wheels at the Chicago Auto Show I just went to earlier this month. After all, we have to show love to the Cruisin' element, right? More shots are on the way, including beer-related goodies of course! Enjoy!


Lexus likes to torture car enthusiasts by showing different versions of their sweet concept rides like this LF-LC. Let's hope to see one on the road!
For all you fans of killing the walking dead, this was an Elantra Coupe Zombie Survival Machine by Hyundai. Man, this ride was seriously bugged out and downright scary in case we had to actually use something like this to make beer runs in the future!
Speaking of "bugged out," I always loved Volkswagen Beetles. The beautiful blue exterior of this VWvortex 500 horsepower "Super Beetle" with the Oracal Matte Azure Blue finish and nasty 19-inch rims won me over!
Another concept joint. Honda goes electric with the EV-STER. It looks 
Audi-ish but still fly in its own right.
Cadillacs always keep it  fresh during auto shows. This electric ELR was pretty sick and is still environmentally conscious.
Nissan has a new NISMO line of their existing product. This one is the Juke hooked up with more muscle, sportier handling, and some attractive enhancements to its exterior. 
And last, there's the Ferrari FF, a ridiculous, mouthwatering "hatchback" for a mere $302,450. 


If you are in Atlanta, I will see you at the Auto Show starting on March 13 through the 17th. It should be pretty fly! Oh, and I am not sure of what beer will be sold (if any), but of there is any, I am sure places like The Porter and Brick Store will not be in any threat regarding selection. 

Keep cruisin' for a brewsin'!

Ale
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Saturday, February 16, 2013

Kick it at Atlanta's Breweries Today!


I’m at Burnt Hickory Brewery today!

Whaddup Fellow Craft Beer Lovers!

It's the weekend and there are always some super cool things poppin' off in Atlanta's craft beer scene. I do my best to cover it, and when there are other scribes who are dedicated to doing the same, I have to give them a shout out when I can. Here is a good article in Creative Loafing on the booming brewery scene throughout the ATL and its surrounding counties by fellow beer writer Austin L. Ray.
I think it's worth your while to actually visit as many breweries as possible so that you can indulge in what they consider the best beer they can brew after investing so much time creating a concept; going through all the legal hassles; finding a location (or building one from the ground, up); creating a clever brand and marketing it; and finally, satisfying beer geeks like us with what they consider to be the best ales and lagers that represent their brewing mastery. So with that being said, I am listing the beer tours hosted in and around Georgia's capital. (A special thanks to seasoned beer aficionado "KP" for the extra research!)

Burnt Hickory (Featured brewery)
12 pm-5pm
Saturday February 16th
2260 Moon Station Court, Suite 210 in Kennesaw
Jailhouse Brewing's Glen and
Burnt Hickory's Scott chillin'!
The man behind this Kennesaw-based brewery, Scott Hedeen, is a straight up music fanatic, eccentric, hilarious, and most importantly, a damn good brewer along with his Burnt Hickory team. Quite frankly, they are blowing the hell up! Beer bars are scrambling to answer to the demand for B.H.'s product and for good reason: They've got skills and have some super funky concoctions, including their COC (Corrosion of Conformity) Rum Raisin Imperial Porter and Big Shanty Graham Cracker Stout.
In fact, I happily accepted Hickory's invitation to be a "celebrity pourer" as Scott phrased it during their tours today, so I will be in the house from noon, on, happily handing folks samples of their awesome pimp juice, plus premiering their new customized Mason Jars!
$10 for the “New Blue Logo’d Glass,” a tour, plus 5 tickets for 5 4-ounce samples of the beer.  You can't beat that!

Here are some other tours going down today, so take your pick! You gotta love the ATL!


1pm-4pm
27 Word St, Fairburn, GA 30213
(770) 296.3771
I haven’t been out here yet so let me know how it is. I met the Strawn Brothers Will and Lamar a few times at festivals and whatnot and if their brewery is any reflection of the Strawns their staff, it should be a grand time!

2pm-6pm
8 Cherry Street, Hampton, GA 30228
(678) 734.3202
Jailhouse has been holding down Hampton, GA for a while with some great beer made by some super cool folks! I mean come on, the brewery is based inside an old jailhouse to keep it even more real!
           
2pm-4pm
670 Trabert Ave NW, Atlanta, GA 30318
Come on, since the early days of brewing in their back yards,  me and Monday Night go back like bra strap (check this out)! To add, I did another post on my day kicking it with co-owner Jonathan during the early stages of their brand new, colossal site on the Westside. Incredibly, I haven’t seen the finished product and I can’t wait! See you soon, J-Crew (Jonathan, Jeff, and Joel)!

2pm-4pm
27 Word St, Fairburn, GA 30213
(770) 955-5430
The Head Brewer Bobby has red hair, they cleverly flip it with the “Red Hare” rabbit mascot, and they make some pretty damn good brew! Show them love in Marietta. Co-Founder Roger and the rest of the crew are some genuinely nice folks who do their best to show you a great time!

2pm-5pm
2323 Defoor Hills Road NW, Atlanta, GA 30318
(404) 892.4436
Come on, we have to show love to the old school! Red Brick Brewing’s the oldest operating craft brewery in Georgia and my favorite is still the Vanilla Gorilla Imperial Porter, but there are a lot more to choose from! Check out their barrel tables, as their star brewers whatever questions you want (Whaddup, Steve!), there will be some games on the big screen, or play some on your own like ping pong, cards, and darts especially on Saturdays! How cool is that?

2:30pm-4:30pm
195 Ottley Drive Atlanta, GA 30324
Every heard of these guys? They’re only the second largest microbrewery in the Southeast behind Louisiana’s Abita but with better beer. Besides the magnanimous tours they do every day except for Sunday and Monday, they are throwing down with their Special Anniversary Party and Tour featuring Yacht Rock Review mañana from 2 pm until 6; this event is already sold out, so I hope you scored some tickets!

Anyway, keep supporting Atlanta’s breweries and craft beer movement. This city is kickin’ hella casks and taking names!

Happy sippin’!

Ale
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Friday, February 15, 2013

A Cigar For Savannah’s Joe Nanna



It’s the weekend and I plan on posting all of the fun events going on especially throughout Atlanta regarding beer. But of immediate importance, I need to pay my respects and express condolences to the loss of a good man in the beverage industry, Savannah Distributor’s late General Manager Joe Nanna. I had the pleasure of meeting Joe and getting to know him as a fun, generous and very funny guy. Picking up on his New York accent immediately, we quickly bonded and always discussed among other things, beer. He was always down to support any of my endeavors and appreciated my past coverage of his products. After returning from my trips to Chicago and Phoenix, Arizona this past week, I heard the sad news from his co-worker Eric. 
A cigar aficionado who always loved boating, I heard Joe enjoyed both the day prior to his passing which gave me a little feeling of peace. I wish his family, friends and Savannah staff strength and fond memories.
The above photo it took is a cigar for Joe. I am sure he is having one right now.

The formal announcement is here:
Joseph Nanna, 67, from Cumming, GA, passed away Saturday, February 9, 2013. He is survived by his beloved wife of 44 years, Marcia; his much loved daughters, Carol, Christine and her husband, Steve and their children, Steven and Abigail, Lisa and her husband, Nick Paolini; sister, Marianne of PA. Joe worked his entire life in the liquor industry with BrownForeman and Savannah Distributors. Joe's time was spent with his family and friends at the lake and on his boat! He was well known for his stories and words of wisdom, and his contagious laughter! He loved life and lived large up until his last moments. We leave you with-He was "always good," Ciao!! In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the American Heart Association . Please express condolences at www.southcare.us. Arrangements by SouthCare Cremation & Funeral Society in Alpharetta, GA(678) 735-5500.
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Wednesday, February 6, 2013

Ale Sharpton's Last Minute Valentine's Day Dining Guide


Where are you chillin' on Valentine's Day?
Remember this on The Simpsons?
Whether you are rolling solo or if there's a significant other you want to spend the day Cupid annually shoots you both in the backside, imbibing and dinning are the two everyday routines that get special attention during Valentine's Day on February 14th. In case you haven't made your dinner plans yet, Atlanta's vast, yet eclectic dining scene will make sure you fine dine on especially February 14. (There’s also a special cocktail event at STK on the 13th below as well.)
Aqua Blue: I went here last year and it was pretty sweet!
From multiple courses of expertly prepared food and beverage pairings set at killer prix fixe deals, to special entertainment like comedy, live music, dinner in the dark, and romantic films being shown during your dining experience (Cucina Asellina), here is your annual Ale Sharpton Last Minute Valentine's Day Dining Guide. I added a couple of other events as well. Make your reservations ASAP and be prepared with two or three backups in case your first choice is totally booked! 
Anyway, enjoy! ATL's simply awesome when it comes to providing a plethora of options to indulging in culinary greatness! (And note the descriptions are coming direct from the source.)

STK: Couples Cocktails, February 13, 6:30 p.m.
Calling all couples and pals! On Wednesday, February 13th, 2013, STK is inviting couples and singles alike to join one their resident mixologists for an evening of hands-on cocktail demos and delicious tastes. Beginning at 6:30 p.m. participants are invited to enjoy mouthwatering bites from Executive Chef Jeremy Miller while one of the restaurant's mixology masterminds demonstrates how to create some of STK’s most beloved cocktails. Cost is $30 per person or $50 per couple. Advance reservations are required by calling 404-793-0144 or emailing VIPatlanta@TOGRP.com. STK Atlanta is located at 12th & Midtown at 1075 Peachtree Street, Atlanta, GA 30309. For more information please visit www.stkhouse.com.

Cucina Asellina: Valentine's Day Dinner and a Movie, 7 p.m. 
What better way to spend Valentine’s Day than enjoying dinner and a movie? Cucina Asellina is making it easy to kill two birds with one stone this year by serving up a romantic three-course meal alongside a classic film favorite. The romantic comedy Roman Holiday will be playing throughout the evening with the first viewing beginning at 7 p.m. As an added treat, couples are invited to enjoy a glass of prosecco on the house celebrate their evening. Diners can also take advantage of a special pop-up boutique located right next door in STK’s private dining rooms, Cucina Asellina’s sister restaurant, that will feature a variety of last minute gifts including flowers, local artwork, a sketch artist, and jewelry from local vendor, Asha Patel and more. The total package is only $60 making this the perfect date night. For more information visit www.asellina.com or call 404-793-0141 for reservations. Cucina Asellina is located in the 12th & Midtown development at 1075 Peachtree Street, Atlanta, GA 30309.

No. 246 
For $55 per person, No. 246 in Decatur is offering a four-course prix fixe menu this Valentine’s Day. Examples of entrée options include wood-oven baked red snapper in cartuccio, butter poached Maine lobster and braised Wagyu beef cheeks. Tax and gratuity are not included. A credit card is required to hold a reservation. To reserve a table for the Valentine’s Day meal, call 678-399-8246. www.no246.com 


The Optimist: Taken by Andrew Thomas Lee
The Optimist 
The Optimist is offering a four-course prix fixe menu for Valentine’s Day. Guests can begin the meal at the west Midtown restaurant with a taste for the table of she-crab soup, followed by starter options such as east and west coast oysters, hearts of palm and beet salad or Spanish octopus. Entrée options include items such as white steelhead salmon, Georges Bank scallops or grilled duck breast. To sweeten the meal, three dessert options are available. The cost is $65 per person and does not include tax or gratuity. A credit card is required to hold a reservation. To make a Valentine’s Day reservation, call 404-477-6260. www.theoptimistrestaurant.com 

ECCO 
Atlantans can celebrate Valentine’s Day in Midtown at Ecco. In addition to the regular menu, the restaurant is offering decadent specials of calamari ala plancha with pears, harissa and basil ($9); roasted quail with horizo, farro verde and radish green salsa verde ($15); crispy black cod with young collards, hazelnuts, brown butter, capers and lemon ($27); and milk chocolate torte with blood orange coulis and spiced pecans ($9). For more information or to make a reservation, call 404-347-9555. www.ecco-atlanta.com 

Cypress Street Pint and Plate: Blackout Valentine's Day Party, 7 p.m.
Looking for an alternative to the typical, fancy Valentine’s Day outing? Well, Cypress Street Pint and Plate’s Blackout Valentine’s Day Party on Thursday, February 14th is the place to be. From 7 p.m. to midnight, Cypress is turning out the lights (literally) and guests can enjoy Valentine’s Day treats like $1 PBRs, half off bottles of wine, specialty doughnut and beer pairings, $2 Cypress Street House Ale and $3 Palm Beers by candlelight. Additionally, for each Palm Beer bought, Cypress will give a rose to that special someone. For more information, please visit www.cypressbar.com or call 404.815.9243. Cypress Street Pint and Plate is located in the heart of Midtown behind the Biltmore at 817 West Peachtree Street Northeast Ste. E125, Atlanta, Georgia 30308. Follow Cypress Street on Twitter at @CypressStreet and Facebook at Facebook.com/CypressStreet.

STK: Special 3-Course Dinner and Pop-Up Valentine's Day Gift Boutique, 7 p.m.
For those who want to go all out, STK is hosting a special three-course Valentine’s Day dinner for $90 per person that will be sure to impress even the pickiest dates. With three choices per course from a selection of STK’s most popular dishes and a complimentary glass of prosecco to top it off, the evening will also include a pop-up boutique featuring jewelry by local artisans, including Asha Patel, fresh cut flowers, art, live sketches by local artist Matt Miller a.k.a. the Sunflowerman, and more. For more information, visit www.stkhouse.com or call 404-793-0144 to make your reservation. STK Atlanta is located at 12th & Midtown at 1075 Peachtree Street, Atlanta, GA 30309.

P’cheen International Bistro & Pub: Special Valentine's Day Prix Fixe Menu, 6 p.m.
Looking for great food, great drinks, and great service? Head to P’cheen International Bistro and Pub for a fantastic Valentine’s Day dinner featuring a prix fixe menu created by award-winning executive chef Alex Friedman, available for $35. At $50, diners may choose to add a wine flight or beer options to their meal. P’cheen will also be serving bottles of champagne for only $20, as supplies last. A favorite local haunt, P’cheen’s seasonally influenced, international cuisine is sure to impress. For more information or to make a reservation call 404-529-8800 or visit www.pcheen.com. P’cheen is located in the Old Fourth Ward at 701-5 Highland Avenue, Atlanta, Georgia 30312.

The Albert: Lonely Hearts Club, 11 a.m. Who says a special someone is needed to take part in the national day of love? This Valentine’s Day, leave the lovey-dovey stuff at home and join the folks at The Albert for a singles celebration that will leave guests looking forward to, rather than dreading, this day of romance. Fill the heart (and belly) with drink specials all night long, including shorties of 4 Roses Whiskey paired with a pint of Bell’s Two-Hearted Ale for $10 and $6 glasses of Thorny Rose Blend wine. But before drinking up, be sure to eat up and enjoy a “dinner for one,” from a special menu created by The Albert’s Executive Chef, Shaun Whitmer. This small bites menu features four single-serve items, including a marinated beet salad, crab cake with white wine remoulade, flank and frites with garlic aioli, and shrimp deviled eggs. Single or not, Valentine's Day at The Albert is a party not to be missed. For more information, visit www.thealbertatlanta.com or call (404) 872-4990. The Albert is located at 918 Austin Avenue in Inman Park.

D.B.A. Barbecue: Dine Out at D.B.A. Benefiting the Steve Hightower Thriving Children Gala, 11 a.m.
D.B.A. Barbecue’s got a big heart this Valentine’s Day. On Thursday, February 14, D.B.A. will host it’s third annual “Dine Out at D.B.A.” in support of the Steve Hightower Thriving Children Gala, an annual charity event aimed at finding better lives and homes for Atlanta’s sick and fostered children. Diners, bar-goers and those ordering takeout can take advantage of D.B.A.’s full menu during this day-long event. 20% of the sales on Valentine's Day, including gift certificate purchases, will benefit several organizations taking part in the Gala: Childkind, Fragile Kids Foundation, and The Center for Children & Young Adults. The Thriving Children Gala must be mentioned upon placing orders for those who want to show their support, so be sure to speak up! D.B.A. Barbecue is located at 1190 N. Highland Avenue NE Suite B Atlanta, Georgia 30306. For more information, please visit www.dbabarbecue.com or call 404.249.5000.

Genki Noodles and Sushi: Special Three-Course Dinner Valentine's Day Dinner, 11:30 a.m.
This Valentine’s Day, grab that special someone and head over to Genki Noodles and Sushi in Virginia Highland and enjoy a fabulous, sushi filled three-course dinner for two for only $40.
Genki Noodles and Sushi is located in Buckhead at 3186 Roswell Road, Atlanta, Georgia 30305; The Prado in Sandy Springs at 5590 Roswell Road, Atlanta, Georgia 30342; and Virginia-Highland at 1040 North Highland Ave NE, Atlanta, Georgia 30306. Call the Buckhead location at 404.844.8319, The Prado location at 404.843.8319, or Virginia-Highland at404.853.3315. For more information, visit www.genkiatl.com

Eddie’s Attic: Cathie Ryan, 8 p.m.
This Valentine’s Day, Eddie’s Attic, the Decatur based live music venue known for cultivating aspiring and accomplished singer/songwriters, is featuring one of the most important voices in Irish music today, Cathie Ryan. The intimate venue is ideal for this captivating artist that has produced five solo albums, earned multiple awards, and has been a part of countless music collaborations. The show starts at 8 p.m. and tickets are available for $18 in advance and $22 at the door. For tickets and more information about the show, visit www.eddiesattic.com or call 404-377-4976. Eddie’s Attic located in the heart of Decatur at 515-B North McDonough Street (upstairs), Decatur, Georgia 30030.

Laughing Skull Lounge: Emo Philips, 8 p.m. and 10:30 p.m.
The widely acclaimed and incredibly hilarious comedian, Emo Philips, is bringing his live show to the Laughing Skull Lounge this February for a special three-night performance beginning Thursday, February 14 through Saturday, February 16. Featuring one performance at 8:00 p.m. on Valentine’s Day and with his jokes being described as “gold” by The List, Emo Philips’ stand up is definitely an original date night idea that will sure to bring on the laughs. Friday and Saturday evenings will feature two show times at 8:00 p.m. and 10:30 p.m. During the show, Laughing Skull requires a two-drink minimum per person, so prepare to drink up while you crack up. Tickets range from $20 to $25 and are available at laughingskulllounge.com or by calling (877) 523-3288. Located in the heart of Midtown Atlanta, Laughing Skull Lounge is a full-time progressive comedy lounge tucked away in the back of The Vortex Bar & Grill on Peachtree Street at 878 Peachtree Street, Atlanta, Georgia 30309.

The Georgia Theatre: Papadosio, 8 p.m.
Revolutionary technology meets a revolutionary message in Papadosio that is performing at The Georgia Theatre on Valentine’s Day. Melding progressive rock with psychedelia, folk with electronica, and dance music with jam, the quintet has amassed a dedicated following of thousands of likeminded individuals sewing the seeds of unity and spreading the sounds of exultation. Singer-songwriter Anthony Thogmartin’s visionary lyrics, eclectic production, and signature guitar work are anchored by the rock solid battery of drummer Mike Healy and bassist Rob McConnell. The quintet is rounded out by brothers Billy and Sam Brouse, whose virtuosic two-headed keyboard, synth, and programming attack give the band its unmistakable complexity and intensity. Doors open at 8 p.m. and tickets are available for $10. For get tickets and more information about the show, visit www.georgiatheatre.com or call 706-850-7670. The Georgia Theatre is located at the corner of Clayton and Lumpkin St. in the musical mecca of the South, Athens, GA at 215 N. Lumpkin St. Athens, Georgia 30601.

Terminal West: Up Until with Special Guest David Murphy of STS9, 10 p.m.
Head to Terminal West for a special Valentine’s Day performance featuring Up Until and special guest David Murphy of STS9. Since playing their first show in January of 2010, Up Until Now has been fortunate to play shows with such acts as STS9, Big Gigantic, Fuzz, Emancipator, St Andrew, Very Disco, Rootz vs Murphy, Immuzikation, Flight Risk, Pigs On The Wing, Telepath and This is Art. The two members of Up Until Now come from a collective past involved in bands with genres of reggae, world beat, rock, hip hop, funk, electro-pop, NIN industrialism and even heavy metal. With their new project, they distill the pure essence in music that has always driven them, and channeled it into electronic dance music with the sole goal of making bodies move. It all kicks off at 10 p.m. for ages 18 and up. For tickets, or more information, visit www.terminalwestatl.com or call 404-876-5566. Terminal West at 887 West Marietta Street NW Atlanta, GA 30318 at the King Plow Arts Center.


Fadó Irish Pub & Restaurant
For the singles in Atlanta, in Buckhead is hosting a Nuts and Bolts Valentine’s Day Party on Saturday, February 9, beginning at 10 p.m. Depending on gender, each person will receive a nut or a bolt with hopes to find his or her match by the end of the night. Guests can enjoy meeting people while sipping on a pint from the wide selection of beers the pub offers. A DJ will spin tunes during the party with giveaways and drink specials available all night. For those guests who have already found their nut and bolt match, Fadó is offering a hearty Irish prix fixe menu to share on Thursday, February 14 from 5 to 10 p.m. For $34.95 per person, couples will start their meal off by sharing an appetizer of cheese puffs or smoked salmon bites. For entrées, guests can choose two of the following dishes: farmhouse salad, fish and chips and steak or black pudding boxty. Finally, couples will share a dessert of either chocolate dipped profiteroles or harvest bread pudding. A glass of prosecco is also included with the meal. For reservations, call 404-841-0066. http://www.fadoirishpub.com/atlanta/ 
Hearth Pizza Tavern
Hearth Pizza Tavern in Sandy Springs is offering diners specialty Valentine’s pizzas just for the occasion. Guests are invited to fall in love from Friday, February 1 through Thursday, February 14 with the “stupid cupid pizza” full of white clam, artichoke, marinated tomato, red onion, lemon, Parmesan and toasted almonds and the “hot lips pizza” with mildly spicy fra diavolo sauce, hot Italian sausage, capicola, roasted peppers, onion, pickled chilies and Parmesan. For meat lovers, a specialty steak lover’s pizza is also available. For more information, call 404-252-5378.www.hearthpizzatavern.com

La Tavola Trattoria
Located in the heart of Virginia-Highland, La Tavola Trattoria is preparing a special three-course prix fixe Valentine’s Day dinner for love birds. For $49 per person, guests choose from a variety of antipasti including braised rabbit crespelle, grilled calamari or beet and farro salad. Entrées include items such as braised lamb ragu, chestnut gnocchi, grilled swordfish and saltimbocca alla romana. Meyer lemon-olive oil cake, chocolate cake and honey mascarpone cheesecake are among the choices of desserts for couples to sweeten the evening. Tax and gratuity are not included. For reservations, call 404-873-5430. www.latavolatrattoria.com 

Little Cake Bakery
Guests are warned to beware of being struck by cupid’s arrow when biting into cupcakes from Buckhead’s Little Cake Bakery. Special Valentine’s Day flavors include lemon lavender, passion fruit vanilla, chocolate dipped strawberry and French kiss. To order cupcakes for that special someone or to treat yourself, call 404-841-8856. www.littlecakebakery.com 


South City Kitchen Midtown and South City Kitchen Vinings
South City Kitchen Midtown and South City Kitchen Vinings are preparing a Southern-style, three-course prix fixe Valentine’s Day dinner for $42 per person. Guests can nosh on appetizers of pimento cheese, fried green tomatoes or fried gulf oysters. Entrée picks range from buttermilk fried chicken, braised short rib or vegetable plate. Dessert options of velvet Elvis cake, caramel apple toffee pudding and buttermilk chess pie round out the meal. Tax and gratuity are not included. For reservations at the Midtown location, call 404-873-7358 and for the Vinings location, call 770-435-0700.www.southcitykitchen.com 

Woodfire Grill
Guests who can’t wait until Valentine’s Day to share the love can visit Woodfire Grill. The restaurant and Georgia Shakespeare are celebrating cupid’s day early on Monday, February 11 by hosting a “Fools for Love” wine dinner. Beginning at 7 p.m., the restaurant is offering a four-course dinner with premium wine pairings selected by owner and sommelier Nicolas Quinones. Georgia Shakespeare’s Associate Artists will provide the entertainment, performing jazz standards and love songs throughout the evening. Tickets are priced at $150 per person ($90 is tax deductible) and can be purchased online or by calling Georgia Shakespeare at 404-504-3405. For those who want to celebrate on Valentine’s Day, Woodfire Grill is offering five-course vegetarian and pescatarian menus in addition to the five-course chef’s tasting menu. The chef’s tasting and pescatarian menus are priced at $100 per person, and the vegetarian menu is priced at $85. Wine pairings are also available for $12 per glass or $20 per glass for premium wines. Reservations are required and can be made by calling 404-347-9055. www.woodfiregrill.com
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Friday, February 1, 2013

Atlanta’s Ultimate Super Bowl Restaurant Guide


Are you ready for some football???!

Let’s see, is anything going down on Sunday? Duh! We all know the Super Bowl (Sunday, February 3rd, 6:30 p.m. EST on CBS) is the most anticipated Sunday of the year for not only sports fans, but for the folks who love to see what commercials are coming out, the food available, libations…you name it! Well in case you want to hit the streets instead of a house party, your homey Ale is providing Atlanta’s Ultimate Super Bowl Restaurant Guide. From grubbing to fun contests, great grub deals, huge televisions, and refreshing sippin’ specials, here is a list of spots that you should consider during hitting up for the Super Bowl in the A! Keep in mind that I only wrote this intro, so the following words are coming straight from the source. Cheers!

Red Pepper Taqueria and Coldbrews Sports Bar and Grill
Coldbrews.

They say: Join us on Sunday, February 3rd for kick-off and get front row seats to the game at both Red Pepper Taqueria and Coldbrews Sports Bar and Grill! Red Pepper Taqueria makes its mark as Atlanta's neighborhood destination for Mexican cuisine. Differing from the average taqueria, Red Pepper uses fresh, local and organic ingredients to create bold dishes bursting with flavor. Coldbrews feeds fans with Mexican inspired dishes, American classics and seafood specialties courtesy of an in-house oyster bar. A sports fan's dream with over 30 flat screen TVs to showcase the days in-demand games, there’s not a bad seat in the house.
Enjoy specials at both locations, including…
Beer bucket (5 domestic beers for $15 & 5 imported beers for $20)
$2.00 shots of fireball, Jager and El Jimador
$6 hurricanes... to celebrate in true New Orleans fashion!
And don't forget the great Louisiana-inspired food specials at Coldbrews Oyster Bar, featuring N'awlins Oysters, New Orleans Style Gumbo, and more!

Ormsby’s
Football fans can cheer on their favorite team from home while still enjoying a classic pub menu with to-go options from Ormsby’s in west Midtown. Game-friendly fare such as Guinness-braised bratwurst, hand-dipped corn dogs and hot boiled peanuts bring an authentic game day atmosphere to any living room and the Guinness-dipped pretzels with stout mustard will be on the highlight reel of any Super Bowl party. For more information, call 404-968-2033www.ormsbysatlanta.com

Del Frisco’s Grille 

Del Frisco’s Grille is the place to watch the big game on Sunday, February 3, in comfort and style inside or on the heated double-decker patio! Share tomato flatbread, cheesesteak eggrolls, chicken wings, pimento fritters and deviled eggs (all for $7) with fans. Choose from one of their signature cocktails or local brews to cheer your team on to victory – enjoy $4 draft beers, $5 select wines, $5 “Honey Badger” shots and $7 “VIP” martinis! Watching the game at home? Be sure to pick up appetizers and flatbreads to go!

Fadó Irish Pub & Restaurant
While Fadó Irish Pub & Restaurant in Buckhead is well-known as a hot spot for viewing international soccer games, it’s also a great venue to watch football of the American variety. Guests can choose from a wide selection of draught beers to complement the traditional Irish pub fare while watching the game. The three-story venue, crafted in Dublin and shipped to Atlanta for a more authentic pub experience, has numerous screens that will be tuned in to the Super Bowl. For more information, call 404-841-0066www.fadoirishpub.com

Southern Art and Bourbon Bar
Spend Super Bowl Sunday in sophistication and style with a New Orleans and Mardi Gras-inspired party at Southern Art and Bourbon Bar! On Sunday, February 3, join the Southern eatery for a festive football soiree in the lobby – complete with a large, flat screen TV and New Orleans-style bites (think po’boys and gumbo). What Mardi Gras-themed party would be complete without sazeracs and hurricanes? Head mixologist Clay Livingston will be whipping up Nola classics for guests to enjoy while they cheer on their favorite team.

Atkins Park Restaurant & Bar
Atkins Park Restaurant & Bar, Atlanta’s oldest continuously-licensed tavern, has been in operation longer than the Super Bowl itself. All this experience leads to a big win for fans looking for to go options on game day. Special to-go platters are available for Super Bowl Sunday, including 50 Big Green Egg smoked wings with spicy barbecue sauce or 50 Atkins Park confit wings with sweet-chili garlic sauce or Atkins Park wing sauce, veggies, blue cheese and buttermilk ranch ($40). Other platters include 20 grass-fed beef cheeseburger sliders ($40), 20 Big Green Egg smoked pork sliders with tomato barbecue sauce ($40) and a nacho platter with tortilla chips, black beans, jalapenos, shredded lettuce, sour cream, salsa and queso ($35). For information at Virginia-Highland, call 404-876-7249. For information at Smyrna, call 770-435-1887.  www.atkinspark.com

HOBNOB Neighborhood Tavern
Located in the heart of Midtown, the casual and inviting atmosphere at HOBNOB Neighborhood Tavern makes it an ideal spot to grab a beer and watch the championship game. On Sunday, HOBNOB is offering half-priced wings to help celebrate the occasion and alcoholic milkshakes will make the victory celebration even sweeter. For more information, call 404-968-2288www.hobnobatlanta.com

Do at the View
For fans who are serious about game day, big screens and chicken wings are old news. At Do at the View, game day goes high tech as this restaurant and bar offers an experience unlike any other with interactive electronic walls that immerse you in game play as if you were on the field. A dining room that literally comes alive around you during the big game, along with state of the art lighting and sound, creates a panoramic expanse of Super Bowl euphoria. Browse through full iPad menu of delicious appetizers, gourmet pizzas and signature desserts, as well of one of the city’s largest cocktail menus, and enjoy instantaneous ordering while you watch the game.

Marlow’s Tavern
Marlow's by Lauren Rubenstein
The classic American tavern fare at Marlow’s Tavern is the perfect complement to America’s most popular sport. With locations in neighborhoods across metro Atlanta, viewers don’t have to look far to find a welcoming environment to watch the Super Bowl. The grilled turkey meatloaf and hot and sweet wings are hearty and satisfying options, while the firecracker shrimp with cracklin’ spicy sauce will hit patrons like a linebacker on third down. Guests can visit the Marlow’s Tavern website for more information and locations. www.marlowstavern.com

Melting Pot
Four Atlanta-area locations
As the guys take their seats in front of the TV to watch the big game, ladies can “huddle” at one of The Melting Pot’s four Atlanta-area locations for Girls’ Night Out! Football widows and their friends will enjoy a fabulous three-course fondue meal – for under 700 calories – as The Melting Pot introduces its new “Skinny Dipping” menu! No need to give up the New Year’s Resolution when gathering with the girls! Guests will savor a choice of salad, entrée and an ultra decadent dark chocolate fondue for just $19.99 per person. Signature skinny cocktails will be on-hand for those who wish to imbibe.

Twisted Taco
Seven Atlanta-area locations
Twisted Taco locations throughout the Atlanta-metro area are the prime spot for premium sports viewing! On Sunday, February 3, each Tex-Mex cantina will showcase the big game on the plethora of HDTVs located throughout the restaurants, including the tableside TVs for guests to control the action! Drink specials will include:
$15.00 Bud Light Buckets
$3.00 Bud Light Drafts
$2.50 Twisted Brew Drafts

10th & Piedmont
10th and Piedmont by Lauren Uhi Chambers
10th & Piedmont in Midtown is a great option for groups of football fans to come together over shareable meals and a plethora of beverage options. The queso fondido ($7) and blackened fish tacos ($9) are special options, along with $3 Miller Light drafts. The numerous televisions in the bar will complement the projector in the dining room and ensure every visitor will have the perfect seat for the championship game. For more information, call 404-602-5510


Fire & Flavor
Gridiron enthusiasts looking for a new way to grill a game day meal should look no further than Red Oak Burger Grilling Planks from Athens based company Fire & Flavor. The 100 percent natural wood planks used in this traditional Native American cooking method transform an ordinary burger into the MVP of game day snacks. With products carried by retailers in 50 states and Canada, no fan should miss out on the rich and complex flavor of plank grilling. For more information, call 1-866-728-8332www.fireandflavor.com

Hearth Pizza Tavern
Super Bowl viewers wanting a home field advantage can stop by Hearth Pizza Tavern in Sandy Springs to pick up pizza to-go. Football fans can skip the typical takeout places and enjoy hand-crafted pizzas, made with premium ingredients and cooked in a 600-degree hearth oven. For more information, call 404-252-5378www.hearthpizzatavern.com

Kaleidoscope Bistro & Pub
The long granite bar and central communal table at Kaleidoscope Bistro & Pub are comfortable gathering places for groups of football-loving fans to come together over locally-grown food and a great selection of beer. Guests can enjoy the award-winning Kaleidoscope burger, steak frites and Springer Mountain chicken wings while cheering on their favorite team with fellow fans. The restaurant is also offering specials inspired by the two teams. For more information, call 404-474-9600www.k-pub.com

The Original El Taco
Fans looking for a place to watch the Super Bowl in the Virginia-Highland neighborhood can visit Fifth Group Restaurant The Original El Taco for a variety of Mexican dishes with a Tex-Mex flair. Game day classics like guacamole and queso dip are complemented with a range of cocktails including margaritas, sangria, and mojitos, and a prize wheel loaded with fun goodies gives every guest a chance to feel like a champion during the big game. For more information, call 404-873-4656www.eltaco-atlanta.com

RA Sushi Bar Restaurant
RA Sushi Bar Restaurant in Midtown offers a variety of sushi platter options that are sure to please everyone while watching the big game. These platters include salmon, yellowtail, tuna, and shrimp nigiri as well as a wide range of sushi rolls, and vegetarian football lovers will be big fans of the vegetarian platter. Customized platters are available, and all platters are served with wasabi, soy sauce, ginger and chopsticks so fans can spend less time preparing and more time cheering. For more information, call 404-267-0114www.rasushi.com

Uncle Julio’s Fine Mexican Food
Uncle Julio’s Fine Mexican Food is making Super Bowl party preparation fast and easy for fans around Atlanta with their to-go Party Packs. With locations in Buckhead and Sandy Springs, these convenient options serve up to 20 people, perfect for a Super Bowl viewing party of any size. Fajitas, enchiladas or tacos are available in chicken, beef or combinations packs, and the appetizer party pack is sure to bring fans from both teams together with chips, salsa, chile con queso and guacamole. For more information, visit www.unclejulios.com.

White Oak Pastures
Fans can host an all-star Super Bowl viewing party from the comfort of their own homes without missing out on quality food by teaming up with White Oak Pastures. The grass-fed, hormone-free ground beef is ideal for hamburgers on the grill or in the kitchen, and since White Oak Pastures prides itself on environmental sustainability and animal welfare, their products can become Super Bowl traditions for years to come. For more information, call 229-641-2081. www.whiteoakpastures.com

Man, I can't wait for fantasy football next season!
Cheers!
Ale
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