Upcoming Event: I'm co-hosting Kites, Bites & Beats!

It's the launch of the first installment of Kites, Bites & Beats and I am co-hosting it alongside my Climbing Kites homies! Stay tuned for more info but in the meantime, check out their Instagram here and save the date! 

Holler!

Upcoming Event: Smoke and Spice Block Party this Saturday!

 Cheers Y'all!

As always, I will let you know what cool events are happening throughout the nation, but especially in my hometown of Atlanta. Here is another one featuring my Fox Bros. BBQ twin homies and the popular Chicheria Mexican Kitchen going down at The Works in West Midtown this Saturday, June 28th! All the info is below.

See you there!

BARBECUE MEETS BAJA AT SMOKE AND SPICE BLOCK PARTY JUNE 28

Chichería Mexican Kitchen and Fox Bros. Bar-B-Q Host a Flavor-Packed Outdoor Bash

with Live Music and Cold Drinks Benefitting Hogs for a Cause

WHAT:              

Chichería Mexican Kitchen and Fox Bros. Bar-B-Q are teaming up to host the Smoke and Spice Block Party on Saturday, June 28, from 3-7 p.m. on Camp Street. This vibrant summer celebration will take over their shared space with bold flavors, live entertainment and ice-cold drinks.

Guests can enjoy a mix of music with a live band and DJ spinning, plus access to two bars and four food stations, including whole hog and chicken from Fox Bros and signature margaritas and sangrias from Chichería. A portion of proceeds—15% of profits—will benefit Hogs for the Cause, supporting families facing pediatric brain cancer.

Tickets are $35 for entry and three food tickets or $60 for an all-inclusive package covering food and non-alcoholic beverages. Additional food tickets are $6, and drink tickets are $7 in advance or $8 at the event. All ticket prices include an 18% tip. Purchase tickets online.

WHEN:              

Saturday, June 28, 2025

3-7 p.m.

WHERE:             

The Works Camp Street

theworksatl.com

 

The Mighty Fine West Coast IPA Fest Is Coming!

 

Yooooo!

If you know me, the West Coast IPA is my favorite beer style due to its generous amounts of hop varieties, clear body, and strong aromatics. The key is balancing our all of these sensory notes  to make an amazing beer. Well, Good Word’s Mighty Fine West Coast IPA Fest on Saturday, June 21^st from 1:00 pm - 5:00 pm, is answering all my sipping desires with some of the best breweries in the country flexing their brewing muscle to make the best they have to offer.

Below is all the information straight from the source including the 40 different participating breweries. Hurry and get your tickets before time runs out! This is the first beer fest of this kind to pay homage to all the Hop Heads out there, and I am all for it!

Here is the ticket link: https://www.eventsprout.com/event/mighty-fine-fest

See you there!

They Say:

Hop lovers, this one’s for you! Dive into the ultimate IPA experience at the Mighty Fine West Coast IPA Fest, where nearly 50 of the nation’s top brewers will pour bold, crisp, and irresistibly bitter West Coast-style IPAs. Recognized by Hop Culture Magazine as a “fest not to be missed,” this event is a true celebration of the craft beer world’s most iconic style. Price includes souvenir IPA glass, and a free pour at GWB!

Event: Mighty Fine West Coast IPA Fest

Date: Saturday, June 21st 2025

Time: 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Location: Duluth Town Green, 3142 Hill St. NW, Duluth, GA 30096

Tickets: 2 different tickets: 

$72.50 VIP-special branded glass-VIP-SOLD OUT

Tickets for General Admission are still available!

$65 general admission-5oz taster cup 

Both tickets get you entry into the event beginning at the same time. The VIP ticket gets you a special glass and bigger pours, and the wristband you get is redeemable for a draft beer at Good Word!

The ticket link: https://www.eventsprout.com/event/mighty-fine-fest

What to Expect:

• Expert Panels & Hop Talks with All About Beer and renowned hop growers.

• High-energy entertainment featuring S.L.A.W. (Strong Ladies Arm Wrestling) and electrifying Pro Wrestling by Turnbuckle Productions.

• Dance-worthy beats from DJ BlaqMozart to keep the vibes flowing.

Your ticket includes a custom IPA glass and unlimited pours of some of the finest IPAs from across the country. Gather your friends, soak up the summer sun, and join us on Duluth’s scenic Town Green for an unforgettable afternoon filled with great beer, lively entertainment, and a whole lot of hops.

Don’t miss it! This is West Coast IPA at its finest!

Brewery List:

2nd Shift

St. Louis, Missouri 

 

Barrique Brewing

Nashville, Tennessee 

 

BKS Artisan Ales

Kansas City, Missouri 

 

Breakside Brewery

Portland, Oregon 

 

Brujos Brewing

Portland, Oregon 

 

Cellarmaker Brewing

San Francisco, California 

 

Cerebral Brewing

Denver, Colorado 

 

Cloudburst

Seattle, Washington 

 

Creature Comforts 

Athens, Georgia 

 

Crooked Culture

Cumming, Georgia

 

Everywhere Beer Co

Orange, California 

 

Faction Brewing

Alameda, California 

 

Fast Fashion

Seattle, Washington 

 

Fidens Brewing

Albany, New York 

 

Finback

Brooklyn, New York 

 

Fonta Flora

Morganton, North Carolina

 

Fort George 

Astoria, Oregon

 

Ghost Hawk

Clifton, New Jersey 

 

Ghost Town

Oakland, California 

 

Good Word 

Duluth, Georgia

 

Halfway Crooks

Atlanta, Georgia 

 

Hop Butcher For The World

Chicago, Illinois 

 

Indio Brewing

Sugar Hill, Georgia

 

Inner Voice

Decatur, Georgia 

 

Ism Brewing

Long Beach, California 

 

Kros Strain

La Vista, Nebraska

 

Living Waters

Nashville, Tennessee

 

Mellotone Beer Project

Cincinnati, Ohio 

 

Monday Night 

Atlanta, Georgia 

 

Narrow Gauge

Florissant, Missouri

 

New Image Brewing

Arvada, Colorado

 

New Realm

Atlanta, Georgia 

 

North Park Beer

San Diego, California 

 

Offset Bier Co.

Park City, Utah 

 

Ology Brewing

Tallahassee, Florida 

 

Orchestrated Minds 

Fort Lauderdale, Florida 

 

Outer Range Brewing

Frisco, Colorado 

 

Pearl & Pine Brewery

Senoia, Georgia 

 

Pinthouse

Austin, Texas 

 

Pizza Port

Carlsbad, California 

 

Resident Culture

Charlotte, North Carolina 

 

Six Bridges

Johns Creek, Georgia

 

TapRoom Beer Co.

San Diego, California 

 

Three Taverns

Decatur, Georgia 

 

Twains Brewpub

Decatur, Georgia 

 

Variant Brewing

Roswell, Georgia 

 

Widowmaker Brewing

Braintree, Massachusetts 

 

Wrecking Bar

Atlanta, Georgia

Reel Talk: The Karate Kid: Legends

 

Reviewed by L.K. Byron

With an understandably high anticipation from millions of fans created over the years, The Karate Kid: Legends kicked open the door and made an early summer movie season debut in hopes of maintaining the legacy. This time the starring prodigy is a high schooler titled Li Fong, played impressively well by Ben Wang. 

Following the similar storyline we have come accustomed to in previous productions of the Karate Kid franchise, this flick starts with an unexpected move out of the comfortability of Li’s hometown of Beijing, China, to New York City due to his mom accepting a change of employment. After the mother and son duo’s New York arrival, the plot changes pace and the drama angle sparks. Staying true to the Karate Kid formula, we have a love interest blanketed by the jealousy of an ex-boyfriend, bullying, and then the main character’s burning desire to inflict revenge.

Ultimately, Karate Kid: Legends aims to please with numerous action scenes, humor, and heartfelt drama. Special appearances by Jackie Chan and Ralph Macchio further fuel the authenticity this sequel aims to deliver. The original, The Karate Kid (1984) still rules the roost, but the kiddies will be driven to root for Fong’s fight for vindication and redemption against the odds that are unfairly stacked against him in this latest sequel. This is an overall entertaining production worth kicking it to.

Ponce City Market set to open five Asian culinary concepts called Market East!

 

Yooo!

There is always something going on in my awesome city of Atlanta, and I just found out that one of its most renowned attractions—Ponce City Market—is hosting the grand opening of a new concept called Market East. It’s based in its renowned Central Food Hall, and on Thursday, June 5, from 5-9 pm, there is the grand opening, featuring five Asian culinary concepts—Boom Boom Bao, Lime Tiger, Uwu Asian Dessert Co., Umbrella Bar and VIỆTVANA. With a live DJ, sample eats, live art, and performers including dragon dancers, I am looking forward to this one, and so should you! Below is all the info straight from the source. See you there!  

PONCE CITY MARKET DEBUTS MARKET EAST IN THE CENTRAL FOOD HALL

Boom Boom Bao, Lime Tiger & Uwu Asian Dessert Co. to join Umbrella Bar & VIỆTVANA in the Central Food Hall’s Newly Redesigned Wing, Now Featuring Five Asian Culinary Concepts. Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony to Take Place on Thursday, June 5 at 4:30pm Followed by a Grand Opening Event from 5-9pm

Ponce City Market is celebrating the grand opening of Market East, a newly redesigned wing inside the acclaimed Central Food Hall, on Thursday, June 5. With colorful, layered, and humble design drawing inspiration from small pedestrian streets and food market culture, Market East is located on the first floor with entrances across from The Roof’s Ticket Booth in The Courtyard and through the existing Central Food Hall by Collier Candy Co.

To mark the occasion, Ponce City Market and VIỆTVANA will host a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 4:30pm on opening day. From 5-9pm, the public is invited to a grand opening celebration featuring samplings from the new stalls, music from a DJ, live art, and performances by traditional lion and dragon dancers.

Market East’s opening will debut three new pan-Asian dining concepts created by Dinh Tran and Khanh Dang, the husband-wife team behind VIỆTVANA. Together with VIỆTVANA and Umbrella Bar, these new eateries complete Market East, offering an expanded range of Asian culinary experiences.

“We’re thrilled to debut Market East and introduce a dynamic space where visitors can further immerse themselves in the rich flavors and culture of Asian cuisine,” said Adam Schwegman, director and head of retail leasing at Jamestown. "It's always rewarding to see our tenants' creative visions come to life, and we’re looking forward to expanding our partnership with the Vietvana team.”

The new concepts include:

·         Boom Boom Bao – a Vietnamese bao and dim sum restaurant specializing in steamed bao buns ("baozi") and dumplings served in a traditional grab-and-go format. The menu features up to 10 different stuffings made fresh daily with the stall divided into two sections: one for bao and another for dim sum. Boom Boom Bao also offers a cold vegetables and herbs station, a rice and vermicelli carb station, Thai-inspired dishes, and protein stations with BBQ chicken, pork, pork chops, and vermicelli noodle salad. It will be open for breakfast and lunch daily.

·         Lime Tiger – a customizable bento box concept focused on Southeast Asian street food open for lunch and dinner service. The "build your own bento box" approach allows people to build their own tray with rice, a protein like rotating fish or pork options, a garnish, and special seasonings and sauces from the most popular and traditional flavors of Asia. The Lime Tiger team will help guide diners on optimal flavor pairings, making the dishes more customizable than traditional pho restaurants. The decor and branding play on food carts from across Southeast Asia, and in describing the name, the owners say Lime Tiger is a celebration of what unifies these diverse cultures. "Limes because they add brightness to every dish, and tigers because of their beauty and agility," Tran says.

·         Uwu Asian Dessert Co. (pronounced "oh-woo”) – features Japanese-inspired sweet treats, desserts, and milk teas to evoke that euphoric "first taste" feeling. Customers can select from 12 different tea options brewed fresh using a machine similar to an espresso maker. The menu also features specialty waffles that are crispier and fluffier than traditional American recipes and Vietnamese shaved ice, made with a special "snowflake ice" technique that creates a light, creamy texture with sweetness primarily coming from toppings rather than the ice itself. The brand is a mix of cute and craft in an unapologetically Japanese pop art style, with a nod to the concept of kawaii, meaning cute or endearing in Japanese.

“Our goal has always been to introduce people to the depth and joy of Asian cuisine in a way that feels accessible and exciting,” said Tran. “Each of these new concepts is rooted in the street food traditions we grew up with and love. With Boom Boom Bao, Lime Tiger, and Uwu, we’re creating spaces where food is not just about flavor, but also about culture, connection, and curiosity. We’re grateful for the opportunity to share more of Asia's incredible diversity with Atlanta.”

Along with the new additions, VIỆTVANA will continue offering its signature and delectable phở, house-made noodles and fresh bánh mì sandwiches, expanding its menu with new soup flavors including curry and spicy soups. Umbrella Bar also continues to provide a lively taste of traditional Korean food with a twist.
For more information, visit:

www.poncecitymarket.com and Instagram at @poncecitymarket

675 Ponce De Leon Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30308

uwudesserts.com @uwudesserts

678-819-7800

limetigercarts.com @limetigercarts

678-952-7100

boomboombao.com @boomboombaoatl

678-734-0500

About VIỆTVANA Phở Noodle House

VIỆTVANA Phở Noodle House is a restaurant concept founded by Dinh Tran and Khanh Dang, Vietnamese natives and millennials, who are proud of their traditional Vietnamese recipes and the hospitality with which it’s served. VIỆTVANA currently has restaurants at Ponce City Market, Lee + White Food Hall and Avondale Estates. The VIỆTVANA restaurants continue with their mission to change the narrative of Vietnamese and Asian food around the world. The name reflects the idea of Vietnamese food meeting nirvana, hence VIỆTVANA. VIỆTVANA’s recipes are created by Tran and his mother, Tina Nguyen, who often is found in the restaurants’ kitchens. For more information, visit https://vietvana.com/.

About Ponce City Market

Ponce City Market is a five-building, three-million-square-foot community hub in Atlanta, Georgia. The mixed-use property, located along Ponce de Leon Avenue in the Old Fourth Ward, features a dynamic blend of local and world-class food and retail offerings, Class A office space, and suite of residential and hospitality living options. With public green space and direct access to the Atlanta Beltline, Ponce City Market has become a defining marker of place in Atlanta’s urban landscape and iconic destination for area residents and visitors. Reflecting Atlanta's evolving identity, Ponce City Market brings together the old and new in one integrated community – with a buzzing food hall at its core. The property includes the adaptive reuse of an historic Sears, Roebuck, and Co. store and distribution center, as well as a series of newly constructed buildings with modern amenities and design features.

 

It's Part Two of Ale's ATL Memorial Day Weekend Roundup!

 

Athens in ATL during Memorial Day weekend?
Westside Motor Lounge says 'Why not?!'

Whaddup?!

Here is Part Two of my roundups of what’s popping in different neighborhoods of my beloved ATL. These events and spirit-lifting libations come with info straight from the source.

And like I said in Part One, be safe, have fun, and kick it while honoring those soldiers who sacrificed for our freedom here in the US, including my grandfather, aunt, and granduncle. Thank you for your service.

Salute!

 

Westside Motor Lounge Brings Athens to Atlanta for ATHDay 

Paint the town red and black for ATHDay at Westside Motor Lounge, a celebration of all things Athens, Georgia, on Saturday, May 24, 2025. The Westside Atlanta venue will kick things off at noon with a full-on takeover featuring local food, Creature Comforts beer, artists, and giveaways—all straight from the Classic City and America’s best college town. The energy kicks into high gear from 2 p.m. to 9 p.m. when five Athens-based musical acts take the stage to put on an electrifying show that gives audiences a taste of Athens’ legendary underground music scene. Featuring the southern twang of Peach Ice Cream Bluegrass, the bluesy folk sensibilities of Cannon Rogers, the groovy psychedelic funk rock of Patio, the unbridled chaos of electronic hard rockers Alien Funk Academy, and the reimagined jam band classics of Grateful Dead cover band Dire Wolf, Westside Motor Lounge’s ATHDay celebration is sure to have something for any and every concertgoer. Tickets are $15 per person and can be purchased at www.westsidemotorlounge.com. For more information, call 678-388-9536. Westside Motor Lounge is located on the corner of Northside Drive and Donald Lee Hollowell Parkway at 725 Echo Street NW, Atlanta, GA 30318. Stay connected on Instagram @Westside_Motor_Lounge.

Where There’s Smoke, There’s BBQ: Memorial Day Weekend at DBA

With two locations serving up hickory-smoked goodness—DBA Barbecue in Chastain and DBA Tacos & BBQ in Clarkston—there’s no better way to kick off summer than with DBA’s signature flavor this Memorial Day weekend. Whether dining in, grabbing takeout, or catering a backyard bash, both spots are firing up the smoker and opening their doors on Monday, May 26, to make the long weekend deliciously unforgettable. From tender pulled pork and fall-off-the-bone ribs to cheesy mac and cheese, tangy slaw, and slow-cooked baked beans, DBA’s menu has something for every gathering—big or small. Quantities are limited, so pre-orders are encouraged to make sure the holiday spread is stress-free and flavor-packed. To place an order, call 404-249-5000 or visit dbabbq.com for details. Pickup is available at both DBA Barbecue Chastain (4441 Roswell Rd NE, Atlanta, GA 30342) and DBA Tacos & BBQ in Clarkston (4540 E Ponce de Leon Ave, Clarkston, GA 30021). 

Almost Summertime and the Livin’ is Easy with Nine Dot This Memorial Day Weekend

Kick off the season of sun, swimsuits, and sizzling grills this Memorial Day weekend by stocking up the cooler with Nine Dot's easy-sipping cannabis beverages. As friends gather for backyard BBQs, beach hangs, and picnics, Nine Dot's tropical punch THC coolers bring something unexpected and refreshing to the party. Perfect for lounging on a towel or operating the grill, these flavorful, non-alcoholic beverages deliver a smooth, social buzz in every can—available in a low-dose 3mg for the cannabis curious or a 10mg high-dose option for seasoned sippers. Made in Atlanta and already making a splash in the beverage scene, Nine Dot is the ideal companion for long weekends and life's laid-back moments. Nine Dot products are available online at www.DrinkNine.com and at select Atlanta-area locations, including Coastal Green Wellness in Decatur, West End Joint at Lee + White, Hop City at Krog Street Market, Kea Beverages, Home Grown, and more. For more information on Nine Dot, its product offerings, and where to find them, visit www.DrinkNine.com. Follow along on Instagram and TikTok at @DrinkNineDot. Nine Dot Cannabis Beverages are made in Atlanta, Georgia.

Red, White, and Buzzed with Georgia Hemp Company This Memorial Day

Summer’s unofficial kickoff is here, and The Georgia Hemp Company is bringing the kind of chill that lasts all weekend long. Born and blazed in Atlanta, the brand knows how to turn an average long weekend into a high-functioning holiday. Whether it’s lakeside lounging, backyard grilling, or picnic posting, The Georgia Hemp Company is ready to help stock those coolers full of can’t-miss canna-sips. With cans from hemp beverage brands, including Palmos, Climbing Kites, Happi, Señorita, Blue Roo, Nine Dot, and more, each drink promises to keep things light, loose, and just a little lifted. And if sipping isn’t the vibe, head into the store to shop a variety of cannabis goods. From pre-rolls and vapes to edibles and topicals, customers can stay mellow while the group chat debates who’s bringing the ice. For more information, visit www.thegeorgiahempcompany.com. 

Putt, Sip, Repeat—Kick Off Memorial Day Weekend at Puttshack

Skip the backyard burgers and turn up the fun this Memorial Day Weekend, May 24 - 26, at Puttshack, where high-tech mini golf meets globally inspired food and drinks in a lively, design-forward setting. With two metro Atlanta locations—West Midtown and the newly opened Puttshack Dunwoody—there’s no better excuse to rally the crew, grab a cocktail, and putt the day away. Fun for all ages, both venues feature four immersive courses powered by Puttshack’s patented Trackaball™ technology, plus a full-service bar and kitchen dishing out everything from Thai fried chicken and flatbreads to funnel cake with a twist. Whether it’s a competitive date night, group hang, or clever way to dodge BBQ duty, Puttshack is open all weekend long with something for everyone. Just in time for the holiday, Puttshack Dunwoody debuts new summer hours, opening early at 11 a.m. Monday through Thursday. Because one round is never enough, guests can double the fun with a can’t-miss deal—buy one game, get the second half off, weekdays from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. The fun doesn’t stop there. Happy Hour just launched, running Monday through Thursday from 3 to 6 p.m., featuring snacks like Southwest Chicken Quesadillas and Loaded Tots paired with refreshing drinks—because why stop at just one hour? Hungry for more? Puttshack’s latest menu drop includes crave-worthy additions like Sweet Heat Shrimp Skewers, Greek Gyro Sliders, The Hot Italian Flatbread, and the Cali Chicken Wrap. For a grand finale, don’t miss the Supertube Sundae, a towering dessert made for celebrations. Raise a glass with the all-new Puttshack Paloma or explore a rotating lineup of zero-proof cocktails perfect for summer sipping. Puttshack Atlanta is located at 1115 Howell Mill Rd., with the new Puttshack Dunwoody at 111 High Street, Suite 210. For reservations or more details, visit puttshack.com and follow along on Instagram at @puttshack.

TWO urban licks’ Sunday Supper Returns for Beltline BBQ

This Memorial Day weekend, TWO urban licks is marking the unofficial start of summer by firing up the grills for Beltline BBQ, a one-night-only barbecue feast with a touch of that distinctive TWO personality on Sunday, May 25, 2025. The third installment of the restaurant’s monthly Sunday Supper series, Beltline BBQ pairs the elevated cuisine of Executive Chef Chad Clevenger with the lively social atmosphere and family-style dining experience of the best neighborhood cookouts. Starting at 6 p.m., guests are treated to a crowd-pleasing menu highlighted by a succulent, fire-roasted whole pig, generous portions of classic barbecue side dishes, and TWO’s signature bourbon cocktail. Each month, Sunday Supper at TWO will take on a new theme, from Southern comfort to global flavors, but the heart of it stays the same—a chance to slow down, grab a plate, share a bottle, and ease into the week ahead with good food and even better company. Tickets are $45 per person plus tax and gratuity and can be reserved through their website at twourbanlicks.com. A staple in Atlanta’s dining scene for over 20 years, TWO urban licks is located at 820 Ralph McGill Boulevard in Atlanta, Georgia, serving dinner seven nights a week and brunch on Saturdays and Sundays. For reservations and more information, call 404.522.4622 or visit twourbanlicks.com. 

Bring the Smoke This Memorial Day With Sweet Auburn Barbecue

Kick off Memorial Day weekend with barbecue done right. Sweet Auburn Barbecue is making it easy to bring the heat with two catering packages, whether firing up the grill or keeping things simple with a spread that's ready to serve. The Memorial Day Wing Kit is perfect for those who love to man the grill. For $60, it comes with two dozen brined, smoked, and seasoned jumbo wings, served chilled and ready to be finished over an open flame. Choose from Wutang, Buffalo, or BBQ sauce, then round it out with two pints of ready-to-heat sides and a gallon of house-brewed sweet tea. For those who just want to grab and dig in, the Memorial Day BBQ Kit brings the best of the pit, hot and ready to go. For $75, it includes one pound of smoked pulled pork, one pound of smoked pulled chicken, a side of barbecue sauce, two pints of sides, four slices of Texas toast, house-made pickles, and a gallon of house-brewed sweet tea. Orders close on Sunday, May 25, at 3 p.m., with pickup available between Thursday, May 22, and Monday, May 26. Sweet Auburn Barbecue is located at 656 N. Highland Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30306. For more information and to order, visit www.sweetauburnbbq.com.

 

It's Part One of Ale's ATL Memorial Day Weekend Roundup!

 

Wylie & Rum brings the island heat with Caribbean Fest Weekend!

Peace Y’all!

Memorial Day weekend is coming and that means eating, partying, and chilling with homies. And with that, I am doing a couple roundups of what’s popping in different neighborhoods of my beloved ATL. Here is Part One with more on the way. These event descriptions complete with direct links are coming straight from the source.

Be safe, have fun, and kick it while honoring those soldiers who sacrificed for our freedom here in the US, including my grandfather, aunt, and granduncle. Thank you for your service.

Salute!

 

SAVOR THE LONG WEEKEND: WHERE TO DINE AND UNWIND THIS MEMORIAL DAY

Festive Menus, Extended Hours and Live Entertainment Await

Memorial Day weekend marks the unofficial start of summer, and there's no better way to kick it off than with delicious food, refreshing drinks and vibrant experiences at some of Atlanta’s favorite restaurants. Whether looking for Spanish flair, a Southern-style brunch or a dance floor that doesn’t quit, these restaurants are serving up something special this holiday weekend.

 Buckhead

·      Chido & Padre’s kicks off summer with the launch of its seasonal watermelon margarita, debuting Thursday, May 22 and available all season long. Made with el Jimador tequila, fresh watermelon juice, agave and lime, this bright, refreshing cocktail is available by the glass for $10 or by the pitcher for $36—perfect for cooling down all weekend. Make reservations online.

·       Gypsy Kitchen invites guests to Basque in the Sun on Sunday, May 25, with an afternoon that channels the lively spirit of Northern Spain. From 4 p.m. to close, guests will enjoy pintxos like toasts with caramelized pork belly with blistered shishito peppers and chile oil ($3) or shrimp, chorizo, potato and red pepper skewers ($4) paired with summery tintos de verano, Spanish ciders and draft gintonics made with Gypsy’s proprietary tonic. A live flamenco guitarist adds an authentic touch to this weekly patio celebration. Reservations can be made via OpenTable.

·       Johnny’s Hideaway is turning up the volume for Memorial Day weekend with extended hours on Sunday, May 25. The iconic nightclub keeps the party going until 2 a.m. both nights, making it the perfect spot for late-night dancing, cocktails and nostalgia-fueled fun.

 Westside

·      Your 3^rd Spot invites guests to celebrate Memorial Day weekend with extended hours, food and drink specials and nonstop entertainment. From Sunday, May 25 to Monday, May 26, guests can enjoy grill favorites like ribeye skewers and smash burger sliders, plus summer cocktails like the Red, White & Brew and frozen lemonade. With over 100 interactive experiences, lawn games and a special $3 Experience Pass and $3 bowling offer for veterans and military guests, it’s the ultimate destination for food, fun and community. Spots can be booked online.

East Atlanta/Reynoldstown

·      Wylie & Rum brings the island heat with Caribbean Fest Weekend, featuring festive food and drink specials from Friday through Monday. Guests can sip on a zesty Ting & Ting ($13) made with Ting grapefruit soda, Bounty white rum and fresh lime juice or share the Island Treasure ($28), a frozen cocktail for two served in a pineapple. Food specials include the Caribbean crab and coconut spinach dip ($15.95) and the indulgent island seafood basket ($24.95), complete with grouper, shrimp, fritters, Cajun fries and house garlic butter. Reservations can be made via OpenTable.

Alpharetta/Crabapple

·       Cattle Shed Wine & Steak Bar is open regular hours on Monday, May 26. In addition to its regular menu, the eatery is offering guests a selection of chef-driven brunch specials along with wine and handcrafted cocktails—all in a welcoming, stylish setting perfect for gatherings. Make reservations online.

·        Milton’s Cuisine & Cocktails invites guests to savor the flavors of the season with Memorial Day specials like a half-priced filet, a refreshing watermelon feta salad with arugula, pickled red onion and hot honey vinaigrette ($12), and a sweet southern peach cobbler served warm with vanilla ice cream ($10). These elevated comfort dishes are the perfect way to celebrate summer’s start in style. Reservations can be made via OpenTable.

·        Ocean & Acre is serving coastal vibes all weekend long with its new brunch on Saturday and Sunday, plus live music on Sunday from 1-4 p.m. On Memorial Day Monday, enjoy an extended happy hour from 11 a.m.-6 p.m., featuring $2 oysters and a BBQ special of tender baby back ribs. Whether craving seafood, steak or sunshine, Ocean & Acre is ready to make the most of the long weekend. Reservations can be made via OpenTable.

 Multiple Locations

·        HOBNOB Neighborhood Tavern keeps the good vibes going all weekend long, with all locations open for regular hours on Memorial Day, Monday, May 26. Diners can enjoy brunch specials alongside the full menu of hearty tavern favorites, local beers and bourbon cocktails.

 

Check out the 2025 Jeep Wrangler Willys ‘41 4xe!

This JEEP is a throwback to 1941 and was a blast to drive!

So as many of you know, I have an awesome car review section called Street Lines with the legendary Black-owned publication, The Atlanta Voice. This latest review was a fun one I wanted to share with you featuring the 2025 Jeep Wrangler Willys ‘41 4xe. Check it out!

Street Lines: 2025 Jeep Wrangler Willys ‘41 4xe

I have always was captivated by Jeeps dating back to war movies, the show M.A.S.H., how they were flaunted especially during the golden era of hip hop in the ’90s, and their overall capability to take on any terrain while looking, well, cool. Recently, I took the 2025 Jeep Wrangler Willys ‘41 4xe on the road to Charleston from Atlanta and the brand maintains its revered reputation—rugged heritage meets modern innovation utilizing electrification (PHEV) coupled with a traditional gas engine this year. The real twist with the Willys edition was Jeep paying homage to its World War II origins (hence the ’41 label), including the seven horizontal slits in the grille, doorless option, plus the decals and signature olive green the US Army brandished.

Under the hood, the Willys ‘41 4xe is powered by a 2.0-liter DOHC turbocharged I-4 engine paired with two electric motors. An integrated transmission-mounted motor delivers 134 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque, while the front eTorque generator contributes 44 hp and 39 lb-ft. Combined, the system tops out at 375 hp and 470 lb-ft of torque, reportedly making this the most powerful Willys Wrangler to date. I concur; it was more than adequate power for both the streets and highways during the South Carolina excursion.

Addressing the electric input, power is supported by a 17.3 kWh lithium-ion battery that offers 21 miles of electric-only driving—which works for quiet trail cruising or quick errand commutes. Jeep’s Selec-Trac full-time 4WD system and a two-speed transfer case with 2.72:1 low range maintain Wrangler’s celebrated rep for off-road capability and boosting the confidence to take on virtually any terrain. The ride is enhanced by front and rear solid axles with link coil suspension, stabilizer bars, and numerous other accompaniments complemented but what immediately caught my eye— massive LT285/70R17C off-road tires encompassing 17-inch body-colored rims to further carry the Army theme.

Inside, the black and “Heritage Tan” interior is directed to the adventurous and holding back all the fluff, which Jeep enthusiasts would expect. This tester included over $13,000 in additional packages like the Army décor, Trailer Tow and Aux Switch Group, and Active Safety Group, totaling $73,095. You’ll get modern touches like a high-res touchscreen, adaptive cruise control, and auxiliary switches for custom gear you can explore on their website below. I commend the user-friendly knobs and fully retractable roof with a flick of a switch to fully experience the open air.

The fuel economy is rated at 49 MPGe combined when using electric power and 20 MPG when running as a gas hybrid, which I’d say is a fair trade for its capability and power.

If you’re looking for a Wrangler that is a blast from the past, while “charging” into the future, the Willys 41 4xe delivers. Whether it’s off-grid adventures or turning heads at an inner-city event, consider this Jeep edition.

Fuel Economy: 49 city/20 highway (MPGe combined), and 21 miles of electric range

Price: Starting at $50,656, and reviewed with all the packages and options totaling $73,095.

For more information, visit Jeep.com.

Photos courtesy of JEEP.

 

It’s time for ‘KICKIN' UP DUST’ FEATURING DJ KEMIT & RICH MEDINA!

The Echo Room’s all-vinyl event is back 

April 12^th from 7 to midnight!

Whaddup?!

You know I am going to keep you posted on things popping in especially Atlanta, and this Kickin’ Up Dust event at the Westside Motor Lounge’s Echo Room showcasing some of the best DJs in the world—Rich Medina and DJ Kemit—is this Saturday, April 12^th from 7 to midnight. I posted this on Instagram when the Echo Room first opened and continue to go there whenever I can. All the info is below straight from the source, including a mix by both DJs for your listening pleasure! Hey, I look out for my homies, right?  

See you Saturday!

 

KICKIN' UP DUST: VINYL-ONLY SHOWCASE FEATURING DJ KEMIT & RICH MEDINA RETURNS TO ECHO ROOM APRIL 12TH

Special Record Store Day Edition with Back-To-Back Sets of Rare, All-Vinyl 45s, No Laptops, No Gimmicks, Just Skill and Soul.

Echo Room to Include Vinyl Pop-Up Shop, Vendors, Exclusive DJ Kemit Releases, and More

Kickin' Up Dust, DJ Kemit's monthly all-vinyl 45s party, returns to Echo Room on Saturday, April 12 7 to midnight, with a record collector's dream lineup in celebration of Record Store Day. The jazz kissa listening bar nestled at the bottom of the hill on Westside Motor Lounge's complex and meticulously curated by four legendary Atlanta DJs, Kai Alce, Salah Ananse, Mike Zarin, and the Kickin' Up Dust architect- DJ Kemit welcomes world-renowned DJ and producer Rich Medina for a set of rare, all-vinyl 45s, side by side- a not-to-be-missed rare evening of two of the most respected deejays in the world sharing the decks for a night of deep cuts, undeniable grooves, and pure turntable mastery—no laptops, no gimmicks, just skill and soul.

“Kickin Up Dust is a night for the heads, the dancers, and the music lovers,” says Aishah Rashied Hyman, event series producer. “We designed Echo Room for this experience—an intimate, sonically rich space where vinyl reigns supreme. The energy, music, and culture all come alive here.” 

Kickin’ Up Dust, DJ Kemit’s monthly all-vinyl 45s party has become a staple in Atlanta’s music scene, bringing together collectors, DJs, and dancers for an immersive experience in analog sound. From rare grooves to acid jazz, funk, soul, and hip-hop B-sides, this event is a masterclass in curation. “Vinyl 45s force you to be intentional,” says DJ Kemit, creator of Kickin’ Up Dust. “You’ve got two to four minutes to make an impact before it’s time to switch records. That keeps you sharp- keeps you creative. And when you have someone like Rich Medina beside you, the bar is set even higher.”

DJ KEMIT MIX

For two decades, Medina, DJ Kemit, and Hyman have been pushing creative boundaries together, crafting groundbreaking music and art installations that blend sound, storytelling, and immersive design. A platinum-selling producer, poet, and Ivy League lecturer, Medina is known for his legendary parties, Jump N Funk and Lil’ Ricky’s Rib Shack, as well as his work with artists like Jill Scott and J Dilla. With over 40,000 records in his collection and four decades behind the decks, he brings unparalleled knowledge and passion to every set. 

RICK MEDINA MIX

In addition to back-to-back vinyl sets by Kemit and Medina, the Record Store Day edition of Kickin Up Dust will feature a crating digging vinyl pop-up shop of must-have records, a vendor market with a curated selection of local artisans and makers featuring one-of-a-kind handcrafted goods, and exclusive DJ Kemit releases including original pressings.

For ticket options and additional details, visit www.westsidemotorlounge.com.