Here are some dope ATL spots to to sip, eat and watch sports!

 

Photo credit: Brandon Amato

Whaddup?!!

As many of you know, I am a huge sports fan and this is especially true with football. I am always on the hunt to watch the games while indulging in food, brews, and whatever else to make the experience that much more memorable throughout Atlanta. The biggies for me include a great beer selection, quality fare made with fresh ingredients, and multiple TVs that are MODERN (not those joints that aren’t HD and have big-ass backs rivaling ATL strippers—flat screen only). Well, some friends of mine in the industry sent over some strong suggestions to share with you including a to-go option, so here you go straight from the source!

Cheers!

SCORE BIG ON GAME DAY AT ATLANTA’S TOP DINING SPOTS

Whether cheering from the bar or at home, these spots deliver championship-worthy dishes and deals! 

Football fans, get ready to cheer for the NCAA National Championship on Jan. 20 in Atlanta and the NFL championship game on Feb. 9 in New Orleans. As the excitement builds, Atlanta restaurants are gearing up with unbeatable options for fans to dine in, watch the action, or host epic game-day parties from home.

With locations in Brookhaven, Dunwoody, Atlantic Station, Halcyon, Vinings, and Peachtree City, HOBNOB Neighborhood Tavern offers beer, bourbon, and plenty of big-screen TVs, making it a prime spot for game-day viewing. For the big game on Sunday, Feb. 9, all locations feature $15 all-you-can-eat nachos (up to four people), $10 pitchers of house lager, and a free shot with every fumble. Guests also receive a raffle entry with any purchase. For those celebrating at home, HOBNOB’s Bring the Party boxes feed eight to 10 people. Options include Sandwiches & Greens ($65), Chicken & Greens ($65), Build-Your-Own Tacos ($70), Pick ‘N Nibble ($70), and Chicken ‘N Dip ($65). View details and place orders online for pickup on Feb. 9 from 10-11 a.m. or 4-6 p.m.

Taco Mac is the ultimate destination for game-day fun. With its award-winning wings made with all-natural, hormone- and cage-free chicken from Springer Mountain Farms and a wide variety of beers on draft, fans can enjoy the championship games on multiple HDTVs. Hosting a watch party at home? Taco Mac’s catering platters have fans covered, featuring options like queso, nachos, original or roasted wings, fried chicken tenders, grilled chicken ranch wraps, and more. Orders can be placed online for takeout or delivery.

Tin Lizzy’s Cantina is game-day-ready with eclectic tacos, specialty skillets, and refreshing margaritas. Multiple Atlanta-area locations ensure fans can access TVs tuned to the big games and a lively atmosphere. Tin Lizzy’s catering and online ordering options make it easy to host at home with build-your-own taco packs, margaritas to go, and game-day specials that are sure to be a hit.

Your 3^rd Spot is pulling out all the stops for the ultimate Big Game Bash on Sunday, Feb. 9. With massive projectors, crystal-clear sound, and electric energy, it’s the perfect setting to catch every play and cheer on a favorite team. Fans can savor special-edition wings in bold flavors like brown butter Buffalo, ATL lemon pepper wet, and Tajín zesty lime alongside frosty mugs of their favorite beers. The event features reserved seating for Y3S community members, exciting prize giveaways each quarter through Big Game Squares, and a unique "stadium seating" experience in the cornhole arena. Entry is free with a table reservation, making it the go-to destination for an unforgettable football celebration. Reservations can be made online.

Fans are invited to transform their home watch party with Zunzi’s party platters. Highlights include peri peri-marinated bone-in chicken wings available in 25, 50, and 100 platters. Flavors include Buffalo peri-peri, Hot-as-Shit!, Mustafa curry, Dank, and Mrs. Ball’s Peach Chutney. Zunzi’s menu also offers crowd-pleasers, such as its signature Conquistador sandwich, bowls, salads, and family meals. Catering orders can be placed online for takeout or delivery.

 

Meet one of the most interesting beer experts in the world: Lima, Peru’s Silvia De Tomás

 

When I visited Lima, Peru, I had the chance to do a food and beer pairing with Silvia De Tomás, a beer judge, instructor, head brewer and co-owner of Dos Broders. I had an awesome time with her, her brother Jhonathan, and her staff, which led to this feature that I shared with a cool site called Medium. Check it out...

It continues to be an amazing experience as a lifestyle journalist and travel writer with a focus on beer. This enables me to travel around the world to document and share my experiences with a broad audience, but the brewing industry is not just about imbibing; I feel the most enlightening aspect is the people behind the ales and lagers. A perfect example was recently taking part in an unforgettable food and beer pairing with Silvia De Tomás, the head brewer and co-owner of Dos Broders, an artisanal craft brewery based in Lima, Peru.

After participating at the incredible Inti Raymi celebration in Cusco, trekking through the Sacred Valley, and literally feeling a new high at Machu Picchu, the last destination of my trip—the bustling city of Lima—delivered an impressive beer scene. After meeting Silvia and her brother and head of operations, Jhonathan, Dos Broders was the most memorable. Their brewery-brewpub hybrid had multiple levels boasting an eatery specializing in Peruvian cuisine, brilliantly designed labels on bottles and cans filled by hand; and a table hosting pairings that perfectly married both mouth pleasers. In an interview with Silvia about the experience, we learn about how beginning Dos Broders in 2018, the challenges with be a female in a male-dominated industry, how Lima embraces craft brewing, and her role as an entrepreneur intersecting with now becoming an esteemed beer judge globally.

Ale: How did you and your brother get into the world of beer?

My brother and I grew up surrounded by beer. From a young age, we helped our father in his brewery, De Tomas. I started working there informally at the age of nine, supporting him in any way I could, and by the time I was 15, I was in charge of the entire production process. At 20, my father sent me to Chile to compete in the Copa Cervezas de América, an experience that opened my eyes to the vast world of brewing. From that point on, I began studying more consciously, focusing on sensory analysis and taking exams to become a beer judge.

Our parents taught us to work from a very young age, and when they passed away—my father when I was 22 and my mother when I was 26—that upbringing allowed us to be independent and work together as siblings. Now, at 30 years old, my brother and I keep moving forward, supporting each other every step of the way. The bond we built has been the foundation of our project and has given us the strength to continue growing together. Through beer, we carry forward the legacy of hard work and passion our parents left us, and that is what we strive to share with every beer we make.

Amazing. What made you decide to start your own brewery in Lima and how difficult was it?

Starting Two Broders in Lima was a natural step for us, driven by our desire to create beers that connected with Peruvian culture and its rich gastronomy. Initially, we faced many challenges, from bureaucratic hurdles to the task of educating the market about what craft beer truly meant. However, the enthusiasm of Peruvians to discover new flavors kept us going.

My father’s brewery was called De Tomas, but in 2018 we decided to transform it into Two Broders, a more personal project. We wanted to share our vision of beer and bring it to a level where the best chefs in the country, singers, and people we admire could enjoy it. Today, that dream is becoming a reality: our beers are available at Central, considered the best restaurant in the world, and many other important places. We have even had the honor of teaching classes to renowned figures like Raúl Romero. For us, Two Broders means so much because it represents our ambition, our desire to make a mark, and to create something truly special.

Tell us about your role, your brother’s role, and what it’s like working together.

I handle the creative and technical side of Two Broders, from recipe development to production supervision and quality control. My brother Jhonathan manages the operational and commercial side, ensuring that our beers reach the right places and maintaining relationships with bars and restaurants. While each of us has a defined role, in the end, we both do a bit of everything and complement each other very well. We are patient, but above all, we share a dream: to craft incredible beers that the world will appreciate. We love each other very much, we are very close, and we are each other’s only family.

Staying on Peru, escribe the craft beer scene in your country?

The craft beer scene in Peru has gone through several waves of growth since 2003, and right now, it is in a state of expansion and boom. Each year, new breweries join the market while others solidify their presence. Popular styles include IPAs and pale ales, but many breweries, including ours, focus on using local ingredients like kiwicha, camu camu, lemongrass, cilantro, maca, algarrobina, strawberries, passion fruit, and chancaca, among others, which gives our beers a unique touch. Peruvian breweries take advantage of the beautiful biodiversity found along our coast, in the Andes, and in the Amazon, allowing us to craft beers that reflect the richness of our country. Despite challenges like the lack of local raw materials and high taxes, the sense of pride and attachment to our roots continues to drive Peruvian brewers.

As a woman in the brewing industry, did you encounter any obstacles?

Yes, being a woman in an industry traditionally dominated by men has not been easy, especially in Latin America. From the start, I faced stereotypes and the constant need to prove my knowledge and skills. I also began very young, at nine years old, which added to the challenge. However, I never let that stop me. I kept studying and training to overcome any obstacle.

My biggest dream is to earn a brewmaster certification in the United States or Germany, and I know I will achieve it. That certification will be my greatest credential, but beyond that, I believe that continuous learning is the key to overcoming barriers. At the Copa Latinoamericana de Cervezas, we have always maintained a 50 percent female participation as judges to promote visibility and learning in a safe and professional environment. I am convinced that, although there is still much to do, change is on the way. I love what I do, and each challenge motivates me to keep growing.

Tell us about the culinary side of the brewery, including food pairings.

At Cebichela, our brewpub, the goal is clear: to combine the best of craft beer with Peruvian seafood cuisine. We love creating pairings that enhance the flavors of the dishes, like our ceviche paired with a refreshing hefeweizen, or our session IPA that highlights the flavors of a classic Peruvian causa. One of our favorite pairings is the street-style ceviche with our Quita Estrés Hefeweizen.

Outside of the brewery, tell us what else you do in the industry, including your experience as a judge in the U.S.

In addition to running Two Broders and Cebichela, I am the founder of the Copa Latinoamericana de Cervezas, an event that seeks to elevate the quality of beer in the region. I have judged over 48 competitions throughout Latin America and the United States, which has allowed me to gain a deep understanding of trends and quality standards in the region. The Copa Latinoamericana is not just a competition; it’s a gathering point for brewers from across Latin America, and I am proud to contribute to this growth. I am also a teacher at Brewmart, my brewing school, and I believe that education is essential for the growth of beer culture in Peru. Training new brewers and sensory analysts is key to the continued growth and evolution of the industry.

So what does the future hold for you?

Looking to the future, my dream is to see Two Broders bars in various parts of Lima and to expand Cebichela as a franchise that brings the perfect pairing between beer and Peruvian cuisine to other locations. Additionally, I dream of creating a hotel south of Lima that combines a gastronomic and beer experience with a brewery on-site. I want every person who visits the hotel to enjoy beer culture and the beauty of our cuisine in a unique setting. Despite the challenges, I continue working towards my goals, like formally certifying as a brewmaster in Germany or the United States. I know the path is long, but I am committed to learning and giving my best to ensure that Peruvian beer continues to shine on the global stage.

For more information on Silvia De Tomás, Cebichela, Dos Broders, her brother, and more on Instagram, visit @silviadetomas, @twobroders.pe, @brewmart_peru, @cebichela, @copalatamcervezas, and @Jhonathandetomas.

To see more of my experience while traveling throughout Peru, please see my five #alevisitsperu posts including reels on my Instagram page as well.

 

 

Dope ways to celebrate New Year’s in ATL!

Echo Room is one of my favorite
new spots of the year!

Cheers Y’all!

2024 has been a crazy one for a lot of us and I can’t wait to start the new year off ! If you want to bring in 2025 the right way in ATL, here are some suggestions a few friends sent for me to share. Coming straight from the locations listed below, I’ve got breweries, restaurants (Congrats to 20 years, TWO urban licks!), lounges, and entertainment venues you should definitely consider. By the way, one of the hot spots listed below is Brasserie Margot, and I juuuuuust posted my recent dining experience there on my Instagram here! All the websites are listed along with any other pertinent information you might need to plan a gangster way to usher in 2025 the right way! And with that, enjoy, be safe, and thanks for being a part of Cruisin For A Brewsin’ for so many years!

Holler!

 

TWO Decades of Fiery Flavor, One Epic New Year’s Eve

For 20 years, TWO urban licks has been turning up the heat, and this New Year’s Eve is no exception. On Tuesday, December 31st, the BeltLine mainstay invites guests to mark the end of 2024 with live music, signature drinks, and vibrant, wood-fired dishes that have made TWO a fixture of Atlanta’s dining scene. Starting at 5 p.m., revelers can settle in for an evening of dynamic flavors—think fan-favorite salmon chips, cider-braised pork shank, and other crowd-pleasing classics—while live tunes set the tone for a night of celebration. Whether it’s a final date night of the year or a group affair, the energy stays high through midnight, when a complimentary champagne toast welcomes 2025 in style. Celebrating two decades as one of Atlanta’s most beloved restaurants, TWO urban licks promises an evening that blends unforgettable flavors, soulful sounds, and the kind of atmosphere only an icon can deliver. The celebration runs from 5 p.m. to 1:30 a.m. TWO will be closed on New Year’s Day, January 1st, so this is the night to make it count. Reservations are highly recommended by calling 404.522.4622 or visiting www.twourbanlicks.com. TWO urban licks is located at 820 Ralph McGill Blvd., Atlanta, GA, 30306. Stay connected on Instagram at @twourbanlicks and Facebook at www.facebook.com/TwoUrbanLicks.

Toast to 2025: Amore e Amore Rings in the New Year All January Long

Dine, sip, dance, and ring in 2025 at Amore e Amore’s New Year’s Eve Extravaganza on Tuesday, December 31st. Whether gearing up for the party or raising a glass at midnight, the beloved Italian eatery is taking New Year's Eve festivities to a new level. Dripping in glittery, shimmering decor and with party favors aplenty, the high-energy evening begins in the main dining room where revelers are invited to indulge in Professor Giovanni’s multi-course holiday menu. For those holding steady until the clock strikes midnight, the good times will spill onto the dance floor after dinner service, setting the stage for a lively countdown to 2025 complete with a complimentary champagne toast. Amore e Amore is now accepting reservations on December 31st between 4 p.m. and 5:45 p.m. for à la carte or pre-fixe dining. Kids ages 12 and under are welcome to dine from open until 7:30 p.m. Reservations after 8 p.m. earn partygoers 21 and older a table for the rest of the night and are $225 per person plus alcohol, tax, and gratuity. Can’t make the NYE party? Not a problem. Amore e Amore will be celebrating the arrival of the new year all January long with a festive, New Year’s-themed dining experience. For more information or to make a reservation, visit www.amoreeamore.com or call 404-600-2176. Amore e Amore is conveniently located at 467 N Highland Ave. NE Atlanta, GA 30307. Stay connected on Facebook and Instagram at @eatamoreatl.

Tradition, Flavor, and Fire: New Year’s at SsamJang Korean BBQ

At SsamJang Korean BBQ, ringing in the new year isn’t just a meal—it’s a celebration steeped in tradition and sizzling with bold flavors. The party kicks off on New Year’s Eve and continues into New Year’s Day, featuring a family-style package that honors the Korean belief in good fortune for the year ahead. The special spread begins with Pajeon, a savory seafood pancake that’s crispy, warm, and worth fighting over, followed by dumpling soup—a comforting classic believed to bring luck while marking another year passed, with a choice of kimchi or veggie dumplings. For the centerpiece, families can opt for Galbi—marinated short ribs, smokey and tender—or Bulgogi, a melt-in-your-mouth favorite. Priced at $100 for Galbi or $85 for Bulgogi, the feast promises to set the tone for a prosperous 2025. For those looking to make the most of the celebration, SsamJang’s all-you-can-eat specials run all day on both New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day. Expect unlimited premium meats—grilled to perfection on state-of-the-art tabletop grills—alongside vibrant banchan that deliver color, crunch, and unmistakable flavor with every bite. Whether it’s for tradition, indulgence, or just an excuse to feast on perfectly charred short ribs, SsamJang offers a delicious way to close out 2024 and welcome the year ahead. SsamJang Korean BBQ is open from 11 a.m. to midnight on Tuesday, December 31, 2024 and 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Wednesday, January 1, 2025. SsamJang Korean BBQ is located in Cumberland Mall at 2860 Cumberland Mall Ste 1109, Atlanta, GA 30339. Open from 11 a.m. to midnight Monday through Saturday, and 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Sundays. Visit ssamjangbbq.com for more information, and follow along on Instagram at @ssamjang_kbbq.

Ciao, 2024! Welcome 2025 at ENZO Steakhouse & Bar

Say goodbye to 2024 and welcome the new year in style at ENZO Steakhouse & Bar on Tuesday, December 31, 2024. Nestled in the heart of the Town at Trilith, ENZO sets the stage for an unforgettable New Year’s Eve celebration filled with exceptional food, vibrant entertainment, and joyful memories. Starting at 5 p.m., indulge in a specially curated holiday menu by Executive Chef Andrea Montobbio, showcasing seasonal delights and signature dishes. Raise a glass to the year ahead with handcrafted cocktails, an impressive wine selection, and craft beers. The evening will sparkle with live music by DJ Manny, festive surprises, and a dazzling Champagne toast at midnight. Make this New Year’s Eve one to remember. For more information or to make a reservation, visit enzo-itl.com or call (770) 756-9188. ENZO Steakhouse & Bar is located at 300 Trilith Pkwy, Suite 230, Fayetteville, GA 30214. Stay connected on Facebook and Instagram @enzoitl.

Ring in the New Year at Brasserie Margot

Step into a world of elegance and intrigue this New Year’s Eve, Tuesday, January 31, at Brasserie Margot, Atlanta’s newest culinary gem at the Four Seasons Hotel Atlanta. From 8 p.m. to 2 a.m., revel in the allure of a masquerade-themed black-tie soirée, where every detail whispers luxury and every moment is designed to dazzle. Think gourmet food stations that redefine decadence, Champagne packages that practically scream celebration, and an atmosphere dripping in Parisian charm.  Promising a night as unforgettable as the year ahead, tickets start at $318 per guest. Reserve now and toast to 2025 with unmatched style. Brasserie Margot (75 14th St NE, Atlanta, GA 30309) is now open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily. Grab-and-go options are also available. For reservations for New Year’s Eve, more information, and updates on Brasserie Margot and Bar Margot, visit the Four Seasons Hotel Atlanta website at www.fourseasons.com/atlanta. Stay connected to Brasserie Margot on Instagram at @barmargotatl and @brasseriemargotatl.

Soar into 2025 at Flight Club Atlanta

Flight Club Atlanta is closing out 2024 with an unforgettable celebration including bubbles, bullseyes and bottomless bites. Revelers can venture to the West Midtown staple on Tuesday, December 31st for a night full of festivities, tech-infused Social Darts, a live DJ and more from 9:30 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. Groups looking to raise a glass altogether can reserve their own private Social Darts and dining area for six to 15 guests that includes three hours of friendly competition, premium beverages and bottomless bites for $119 per person. Those flying solo can snag individual tickets for $75, which includes two drinks, bottomless bites and three hours of gameplay with other guests on a first-come, first served basis. With special savory and sweet options for every taste, partygoers can enjoy delicious bites like lobster mac & cheese bites, golden truffle fries and more, perfect for noshing throughout the celebration. Aim high for 2025 and ring in the new year with Flight Club Atlanta from 9:30 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. Flight Club Atlanta is located in Star Metals at 1055 Howell Mill Rd Suite 140, Atlanta, GA 30318.  For more information or to make a reservation, visit  flightclubdartsusa.com. Stay connected on Instagram at @flightclubdartsusa.

Casino Royale at Vesper: Where Luck Meets Luxury This New Year’s Eve

New Year’s Eve gets a cinematic upgrade at Vesper, where Bond-level glamour and high-stakes excitement collide for one unforgettable night. On Tuesday, December 31st, starting at 7 p.m., Vesper and Spectre transform into a sleek, high-rolling casino, complete with velvet ropes, handcrafted cocktails, and the electric buzz of a night full of possibilities. Guests will sip from the open bar, graze on elevated hors d’oeuvres and a buffet dinner, and hit the tables with $5,000 in Casino Royale Money, where the thrill of the game meets the promise of a big win. As midnight approaches, the room shifts into high gear with a celebratory champagne toast, while a platinum raffle sends lucky winners home with luxe prizes. A live DJ keeps the energy sky-high long after the countdown ends, ensuring the celebration rolls on well into the new year. With just 100 tickets available at $250 each (limit four per person), this exclusive evening is not just a party—it’s a scene, a gamble, and a celebration worth dressing up for. Tickets to Casino Royale at Vesper include VIP red carpet status, an open bar from 7 p.m. to midnight, hors d’oeuvres, a buffet dinner, and unforgettable entertainment. A 20% gratuity is included. For more information or to reserve a spot, click here. Vesper is conveniently located on the Atlanta BeltLine at 924 Garrett St. Suite D, Atlanta, GA 30316. For more information, visit www.vesperatl.com or call 404.963.6902. Stay connected on Facebook and Instagram at @vesperatl. 

All Vinyl, All Night on New Year’s Eve at Westside Motor Lounge 

When it comes to ringing in 2025, The Echo Room, Atlanta’s premiere listening room at Westside Motor Lounge, is taking it back—way back—with Come Together, an all-vinyl celebration helmed by Atlanta legends DJ Kemit and Salah Ananse. From soulful grooves and classic hip-hop to house anthems, Afrobeats, and deep cuts, the turntables stay hot and the dance floor stays alive all night. The party kicks off at 8 p.m. on Tuesday, December 31st, with craft cocktails flowing, surprise moments in the mix, and a midnight champagne toast to welcome the new year. Advance tickets are $30 online, while last-minute revelers can grab theirs at the door for $40. Come for the classics, stay for the discoveries, and end the year on a high note—needle to vinyl, track after track. Westside Motor Lounge is located at 725 Echo Street NW, Atlanta, GA 30318, at the corner of Northside Drive and Donald Lee Hollowell Parkway. For more information, visit www.westsidemotorlounge.com or follow along on Instagram at @Westside_Motor_Lounge.

Kaiseki, Champagne, and the Countdown to 2025 at Bully Boy

For those seeking a more refined start to 2025—think polished plates over confetti storms—Bully Boy offers the perfect setting. Tucked along the BeltLine, the serene, garden-inspired restaurant brings an evening of Japanese kaiseki-style indulgence, with dishes designed to impress: Spicy Miso Ramen that delivers the heat, Shrimp Noodles worth savoring, and A5 Wagyu on Crispy Rice, an indulgence tailor-made for the occasion. The bar keeps pace with a lineup of curated drinks and effervescent pours, leading right up to a midnight champagne toast marking the arrival of 2025. With its striking presentations, inviting ambiance, and flavors that linger, Bully Boy stays open until 1 a.m., setting the tone for a memorable year ahead. A Concentrics Restaurants concept, Bully Boy is located at 828 W10 Ralph McGill Blvd, Atlanta, Georgia 30306. For more information, visit www.bullyboyatl.com and stay connected on Instagram and Twitter at @bullyboyatl or Facebook at www.facebook.com/BullyboyATL.

Abuelita’s Brunch: The Ultimate New Year’s Day Hangover Cure at Wild Heaven West End

Celebrate the start of 2025 with a delicious remedy for ringing in the new year. On Wednesday, January 1st, from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m., Wild Heaven West End is hosting Abuelita’s New Year’s Brunch by El Tesoro. This $25 all-you-can-eat feast offers the perfect way to recover from New Year’s Eve celebrations, whether lively or laid-back. The mouthwatering menu features breakfast tacos, chilaquiles, chicken tinga, barbacoa, pozole rojo, enchiladas, churro-spiced bread pudding, and more—all infused with comforting flavors reminiscent of Abuelita’s kitchen. Guests can elevate the experience with a build-your-own Bloody Mary bar, refreshing mimosas, cervezas, and other drink options to ease into the new year in style. Tickets for this indulgent start to 2025 are available now at www.bigtickets.com/events/wildheaven/abuelitas-new-years-brunch-buffet. Wild Heaven Beer West End is located at 1010 White St SW, Atlanta, GA 30310. For more information, visit wildheavenbeer.com. Follow along for updates on Facebook at facebook.com/beerwildheaven and on Instagram and Twitter at @beerwildheaven.

 

It's National Happy Hour Day on November 12th!

Puttshack is always throwing down!

 Whaddup?!

I never knew about National Happy Day but hey, I’m down! I try to make every day one, but I guess November 12 is the official date. Here are some of the events around Atlanta straight from the source!

Cheers!

Grill and Chill this National Happy Hour Day at SsamJang Korean BBQ

SsamJang Korean BBQ is ready to celebrate National Happy Hour Day with dynamic sips and sizzling specials. Known for its immersive dining experience, the elevated Korean BBQ hotspot is turning up its tableside grills and bringing revelers premium meat cuts seared to perfection. Those who dine in on Tuesday, November 12, 2024, can enjoy $10 lunch specials and 20% off on all combos including the finest meats from brisket to short rib, shrimp, rib eye and more. For diners looking for a mid-day or late night feast, SsamJang will also be serving its all you can eat menu for just $29 available from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. and 10 p.m. to midnight. With juicy cuts perfect for pairing with flowing sips, Korean BBQ lovers can also enjoy $6 tequila shots and cocktails to properly celebrate the day. Available while supplies last, SsamJang is open from 11 a.m. to midnight on Tuesday, November 12, 2024. Serving only the finest beef accompanied by a diverse selection of authentic Korean cuisine, SsamJang Korean BBQ is located in Cumberland Mall at 2860 Cumberland Mall Ste 1109, Atlanta, GA 30339. For more information visit ssamjangbbq.com and stay connected on Instagram at @ssamjang_kbbq.

 

Fuel Up at Flight Club Atlanta’s Weekly Social Hour 

Say farewell to midweek monotony and hello to happy hour at Atlanta’s premier eatertainment destination. Located in the heart of West Midtown, Flight Club Atlanta invites guests to spend their weekday with a refreshing drink in one hand and darts in the other. Running from 4-6 p.m. every Monday through Friday, Flight Club’s Social Hour offers $6 Modelo drafts, select $8 craft cocktails and $9 wine glasses that are perfect for sipping while playing tech-infused social darts and nibbling on tasty shareables including the new buffalo chicken sliders, fan-favorite truffle fries, lobster elote dip, flatbreads and more. Taking reservations for groups of 2 to 12, Flight Club Atlanta welcomes all skill levels and features a range of exciting, fast-paced, multi-player games in semi-private playing areas. Flight Club Atlanta is located at 1055 Howell Mill Rd Suite 140, Atlanta, GA 30318. For more information, visit https://flightclubdartsusa.com. 

Introducing Pu Pu Hour at Sweet Auburn Barbecue

Sweet Auburn Barbecue is bringing the heat with a brand-new happy hour, dubbed Pu Pu Hour, running Monday through Friday from 3 to 6 pm. Folks trying to escape the midday madness can enjoy rotating $7 classic(ish) cocktails to keep things fresh along with a handful of crave-worthy bites. The real showstopper? The Pu Pu Platter—a no-holds-barred spread of baby back ribs, bulgogi satay, wings, Chinese BBQ sliders, and brisket egg rolls. Want more? The Jalapeno Cheddar Cornbread with sorghum butter and crispy Pimento Cheese Wontons are a worthy addition to this all-out spread. Whether in for a quick bite or a full-out feast, Pu Pu Hour at Sweet Auburn Barbecue is the ultimate way to fuel up and power through the afternoon. Sweet Auburn Barbecue is located at 656 N. Highland Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30306. For more information, visit www.sweetauburnbbq.com or call 678-515-3550. Stay connected on Instagram and Facebook at @sweetauburnbbq. 

Get Hooked on Tio Lucho's Happy Hour 

If there was ever an excuse to skip out of work early to hit the bar, it’s Tio Lucho’s weekday Happy Hour. The Peruvian-inspired restaurant is serving up nothing but coastal vibes and wallet-friendly deals every Tuesday through Friday from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Seafood lovers can skip rush hour for $1 raw oysters at the bar and $3 roasted and Tio’s oysters, topped with leche de tigre, sweet yellow corn chalaca, while sipping on cocktails such as the zesty Chilcano, refreshing Rosa de Menta and fiery Spicy Margarita. And for the bold ones, don't miss the classic beer and shot combo. Set the evening in motion with crispy hand-cut sweet potato fries; mouthwatering Fried Yuca; Chifles con Cancha, housemade plantain chips, and fried Peruvian corn nuts; Pollo Causitas with whipped potato and aji; and more. No Wednesday plans? Wine Wednesdays offer double the delight with overlapping Happy Hour and half-priced bottles of a variety of white, red, and rosé vino and sangria. Tio Luchos is located at 675 N. Highland Ave. NE #6000, Atlanta, Ga 30306. For more information, call (404) 343-0278 or visit www.tioluchos.com. Stay connected on Facebook at www.facebook.com/tioluchosatl

Swing into Happy Hour at Puttshack

Get ready to par-tee on National Happy Hour Day, November 12th, with Puttshack’s deliciously loaded Happy Hour menu. Swing by Monday through Thursday from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. and score bites like the Southwest Chicken Quesadillas, packed with fire-braised chicken, roasted corn, black beans, and melty Chihuahua cheese; Loaded Tots smothered in a jalapeño-poblano cheese sauce and topped with crispy pecanwood bacon; or the spicy Nashville Hot Bao Buns—all for just $6 each. Perfect for kicking back with friends before or after a round of mini-golf, Puttshack’s Happy Hour menu is not one to skip. For more information, to make a reservation, visit puttshack.com. Puttshack Atlanta is located at 1115 Howell Mill Road, Atlanta, GA 30318, and 111 High Street, Suite 210, Dunwoody, GA 30346. Stay connected on Instagram at @puttshack, on Twitter at @puttshack, and on Facebook at www.facebook.com/Puttshack.  

Peep the Great American Beer Festival's Top Beers and Ciders of 2024!

 

GABF was lit!

I just got back from the Great American Beer Festival (GABF) and it was arguably the most memorable and exciting one yet! I had a blast with the National Black Brewers Association, fellow homies I have met throughout the years, and the great people who are a part of the industry as a whole. Below are the winners of numerous categories in both beer and cider styles sent directly from the GABF competition, the largest in the nation! Here is the complete list as well.

Cheers!

The Great American Beer Festival® Announces the Top Beers and Ciders of 2024

The nation’s largest professional beer competition awarded 326 medals to 273 breweries and cideries

The Brewers Association (BA) revealed the top beers and ciders of 2024 at an awards ceremony during the Great American Beer Festival (GABF). In partnership with the American Cider Association, the prestigious competition bestowed awards in five new cider categories. With more than 1,200 cider producers in the U.S., the GABF competition keeps consumer drinking preferences and trends at the forefront of the event.

This year, 273 breweries and cideries earned 326* medals. The Great American Beer Festival judge panel evaluated noteworthy brews and ciders across 102 beer categories (including 170 subcategories), five new cider categories, and the Pro-Am and Collaboration competitions.

The competition was made possible thanks to more than 250 volunteers who facilitated the multi-step judging process and 285 beer experts who evaluated 8,836 commercial beer entries, 233 commercial cider entries, 95 Collaboration entries, and 52 Pro-Am entries. Judging occurred in three phases over seven days and included brewery entries from all 50 states plus Washington, D.C., and Puerto Rico.

“The Great American Beer Festival continues its commitment to recognizing exceptional beverages from across the country in the 2024 competition,” said Chris Williams, competition director for the Brewers Association. “With the addition of five new cider categories, we’re pleased to recognize the best of the best in beer and beyond. Congratulations to this year’s winners!

The awards ceremony, live streamed on The Brewing Network on Saturday, October 12, 2024, was held at the Bellco Theatre in Denver as part of the Great American Beer Festival.

Check out the 2024 winners here!

GABF COMPETITION STATISTICS

·         38th edition of the GABF competition

·         8,836 beers judged

·         1,869 breweries & cideries in the competition from all 50 states plus Washington, D.C. and Puerto Rico

·         285 judges

·         250+ volunteers

·         Average number of beers entered in each category: 85

·         Category with the highest number of entries: Category 102 - Juicy/Hazy IPA (349 entries)

·         326 total medals awarded

·         273 medal-winning breweries

·         280 first-time GABF competition entrants

·         25 first-time GABF competition winners

·         Five new cider categories

TOP 5 MOST-ENTERED BEER STYLE CATEGORY WINNERS

Category 102 | Juicy/Hazy IPA (349 entries)

GOLD: Professional Human Being | Ambitious Ales | Long Beach, CA

SILVER: Groundswell | Single Hill Brewing Co. | Yakima, WA

BRONZE: Crash of Rhinos | Movement Brewing Co. | Rancho Cordova, CA

 

Category 100: West Coast IPA (292 entries)

GOLD: Codebreaker | Trademark Brewing | Long Beach, CA

SILVER: Pacific Portal | Alma Mader Brewing | Kansas City, MO

BRONZE: IPA for Aliens | Masthead Brewing Co. | Cleveland, OH

 

Category 101: American-Style IPA (217 entries)

GOLD: Competition | Highland Park Brewery - Chinatown | Los Angeles, CA

SILVER: One Way | Old Caz Beer | Rohnert Park, CA

BRONZE: Lexical Gap | Pollyanna Brewing Co. | Lemont, IL

 

Category 50: Dortmunder or German-Style Oktoberfest (210 entries)

GOLD: Festbier | Glenwood Canyon Brewing Co. | Glenwood Springs, CO

SILVER: Festbier | Northwoods Brewing Co. | Northwood, NH

BRONZE: The Cushman | Morgan Territory Brewing | Tracy, CA

 

Category 52: German-Style Maerzen (195)

GOLD: Pleasantbräu Oktoberfest | Soul Brewing Co. | Pleasantville, NY

SILVER: Marchtoberfest | Galveston Island Brewing | Galveston, TX

BRONZE: Oktoberfest | Left Hand Brewing Co. | Longmont, CO

 

MOST-ENTERED CIDER CATEGORY WINNERS

                                                                                                                   

Category 203: Fruited & Botanical Cider (74 entries)

GOLD: Blackberry Cider | McMenamins Breweries | Portland, OR

SILVER: Ozark Strawberry Rhubarb Cider | Ozark Beer Co. | Rogers, AR

BRONZE: Pacific Pineapple | 2 Towns Ciderhouse | Corvallis, OR

 

MOST-MEDALED BREWERIES

Apogee Brewing Company | Grover Beach, CA

Gold, Lucy Loves Rye, Category 76: Specialty Saison

Bronze, Aurora, Category 73: Belgian-Style Ale or French-Style Ale

Bronze, Monks on the Moon, Category 78: Belgian-Style Strong Specialty Ale

Bronze, Monks In Space, Category 79: Belgian-Style Abbey Ale

 

Highland Park Brewery - Chinatown | Los Angeles, CA

Gold, Competition, Category 101: American-Style India Pale Ale

Gold, Baseball, Category 40: Contemporary American-Style Lager

Gold, Timbo, Category 91: American-Style Pale Ale

Gold, DDH Pillow, Category 98: Juicy or Hazy Imperial India Pale Ale

 

COLLABORATION COMPETITION (95 entries) See criteria here.

GOLD: Twenty-Fold Sword | New Zealand-Style IPA | No Boat Brewing Company and Obelisk Beer Co. | Snoqualmie, WA

SILVER: Stupid Sticky Fingers | Wood & Barrel Aged Imperial Stout | Werk Force Brewing Co. and Rocky Reef Brewing Co. | Plainfield, IL

BRONZE: Spudweiser | American Pilsner | Live Oak Brewing Company and Hold Out Brewing | Del Valle, TX

 

PRO-AM COMPETITION (52 entries) See criteria here. Sponsored by Briess Malt & Ingredients Co. & White Labs

GOLD: Piwo Grodziskie | Kansas City Bier Co. and Mike & Stephanie

Butler | Kansas City, MO

SILVER: Rising Sun | Crooked Lane Brewing Co. and Matt Hall | Auburn, CA

BRONZE: South of Helles | Starr Hill Beer Hall & Rooftop - Richmond and Joel Miller | Richmond, VA

*Out of 327 possible awards, 326 were conferred. Bronze was not awarded in Category 15 for Amber to Dark Non-Alcohol Beer.

Editor’s note: Photos for media use are available on the GABF website. Members of the media are encouraged to contact brewerspr@backbone.media with any questions.

The 2024 Great American Beer Festival was made possible in part by the generous support of its sponsors and in partnership with the American Cider Association.  

###

About the Brewers Association 

The Brewers Association (BA) is a not-for-profit trade association dedicated to small and independent American brewers, their beers, and the community of brewing enthusiasts. The BA represents 5,000-plus U.S. breweries and more than 30,000 homebrewers. The BA’s independent craft brewer seal is a widely adopted symbol that differentiates beers by small and independent craft brewers. The BA organizes events, including the World Beer Cup®, Great American Beer Festival®, Craft Brewers Conference™ & BrewExpo America®, Homebrew Con™, National Homebrew Competition, and American Craft Beer Week®. The BA publishes The New Brewer® and Zymurgy® magazines, and Brewers Publications® is the leading publisher of brewing literature in the U.S. Beer lovers are invited to learn more about the dynamic world of craft beer at CraftBeer.com® and about homebrewing via the BA’s American Homebrewers Association®. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

The Brewers Association is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, gender, religion, age, disability, political beliefs, sexual orientation, or marital/familial status. The BA complies with provisions of Executive Order 13672 and the rules, regulations, and relevant orders of the Secretary of Labor.

 

Sweet Auburn and ATL’s culinary scene host Asheville Hurricane Relief Dinner October 7th!

It’s this coming Monday, October 7th, beginning at 5 p.m. Tickets are $50 per person, with all proceeds benefiting the nonprofit World Central Kitchen. Pull up!

Cheers Everyone!

As many of you know, I try to go to Asheville, NC, at least three times a year to explore one of the most concentrated craft beer cities in the country. I’ve hosted my Piano Keys events alongside New Belgium like this, a BrewGether tour with Sierra Nevada here, and beers with brewing icon Oscar Wong and Highland Brewing here to name a few moments this past year. Well, with the recent devastation the city has suffered from Hurricane Helene, it’s time to give back. One of my favorite backyard spots, Sweet Auburn Barbecue, has teamed up with a long roster of other Atlanta restaurants to host a Asheville Hurricane Relief Dinner, with all proceeds benefiting World Central Kitchen—a nonprofit organization committed to providing meals during humanitarian, climate, and community crises throughout the world—on Monday, October 7th, beginning at 5 p.m., in Poncey-Highland (656 N. Highland Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30306).

For a mere $50, a ticket will get you a buffet-style dinner featuring Smoked Peruvian Chicken by Howard Hsu (Sweet Auburn Barbecue) and James Beard-nominated Chef Arnaldo Castillo of Tio Lucho’s, plus a gang of sides from other renowned chefs throughout ATL.

Below is all the info you need straight from the source. Pull up! I will be there!

Holler!

SWEET AUBURN BARBECUE RALLIES TOP ATLANTA RESTAURANTS FOR ASHEVILLE HURRICANE RELIEF DINNER

Local Chefs and Restaurants Join Forces for Collaborative Dinner Benefiting World Central Kitchen. Tickets On Sale Now for Monday, October 7th, Beginning at 5 p.m.

Sweet Auburn Barbecue is stepping up to help Asheville recover from the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene. On Monday, October 7th, starting at 5 p.m., the beloved Poncey-Highland barbecue spot will host the Asheville Hurricane Relief Dinner, bringing together some of Atlanta’s top chefs and restaurants for a night of incredible food, all for a great cause. Tickets are $50, with 100% of the proceeds going to World Central Kitchen, a nonprofit dedicated to providing meals in response to humanitarian, climate, and community crises around the world. At the event, where every plate supports Ashville’s recovery, guests can expect a buffet-style feast featuring Smoked Peruvian Chicken by Howard Hsu of Sweet Auburn Barbecue and James Beard-nominated Chef Arnaldo Castillo of Tio Lucho’s. The collaborative dinner will also feature a wide variety of delicious sides from Atlanta’s favorite spots including Miller Union, Georgia Boy, Southern Belle, Gigi’s Italian Kitchen, Buttermilk Kitchen, Fox Bros. Bar-B-Q, Carmel, Poco Loco, Breaker Breaker, Del Bar and many more. For those who prefer to eat at home, to-go boxes will be available. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit www.sweetauburnbbq.com, call 678-515-3550 or click the direct link here. 

Participating restaurants and partners include:

·         Heirloom BBQ

·         Tio Lucho’s

·         Miller Union

·         Georgia Boy 

·         Southern Belle

·         Carmel

·         Bakers Hatt

·         Pure Quill Superette

·         Kamayan ATL

·         Breaker Breaker

·         Dhaba BBQ

·         Owens & Hull BBQ

·         Double Zero

·         Soup Belly

·         Poco Loco

·         Gigi’s Italian Kitchen

·         Buttermilk Kitchen

·         Wood’s Chapel BBQ

·         Leftie Lees

·         Evergreen Butcher and Baker

·         Salty Smiles

·         So So Fed

·         Kinship Butcher & Sundry

·         Gezzo’s Coastal Cantina

·         Delbar

·         Fox Bros. Bar-B-Q

·         El Santo Gallo

·         Minwha Spirits

A full bar featuring signature and seasonal cocktails, zero-proof options, beer and wine will also be available for purchase. Tickets are available at Sweet Auburn BBQ’s website, and space is limited. Sweet Auburn Barbecue is located at 656 N. Highland Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30306. For more information, visit www.sweetauburnbbq.com or call 678-515-3550. Stay connected on Instagram and Facebook at @sweetauburnbbq. 

 

The Climbing Kites THC beverage brand is here!

 

Former beer executives (and homies) Chris Herron and Seth Herman add THC sparkling water to their roster and it just hit Georgia on October 1!

Cheers Everyone!

Being involved so long in the beer industry—we’re talking almost three decades, but no need for counting—I have met a lot of great people. Chris Herron, the co-founder and former CEO of Creature Comforts Brewing Company, is one of them, and now he is making major moves that's not involving beer. Herron, alongside one of my other true homies I actually made the second round of Ale Max with, Seth Hermon—a former executive at Diageo, SweetWater, Creature Comforts, and IndieBrew—linked up and started BevStrategy, LLC. Under this company's umbrella, they will oversee the sales and marketing of a THC sparkling water brand called Climbing Kites throughout the South. And while this is not an ale or lager, it is definitely a thirst quencher that will get you nice and relaxed. THC drinks are booming right now, so it only makes sense for these beverage vets to find success with this business venture. 

Besides the dope cans posted above, their website is www.climbingkites.com for more info, plus, I posted the official press release straight from the source below. I am looking forward to trying these joints, chill out, and woosah. (Plus, my palate needs a short a break from my favorite beer style right now, West Coast IPAs.) Definitely support these gents; Chris and Seth are no joke when it comes to quality product, so these THC joints from Climbing Kites promise to be on point.

Cheers!

 

Creature Comforts Co-Founder and Former CEO Chris Herron Helps Launch Climbing Kites Premium THC-Infused Sparkling Water in Georgia

Herron lending expertise to grow the THC beverage brand and fledgling adult beverage category; Georgia rules governing hemp-derived THC beverages become effective October 1

Chris Herron, co-founder and former CEO of Creature Comforts Brewing Company, along with his long-time business associate at Diageo and Chief Commercial Officer at Creature Comforts, Seth Herman, recently founded BevStrategy, LLC. The company was launched to oversee the sales and marketing of the Climbing Kites premium THC beverage brand across the South.

BevStratgy, a strategic consulting and execution company, began after Herron met with long-time friend and Climbing Kites co-founder Scott Selix. According to SPINS data, Climbing Kites is the fastest-growing retail premium THC brand in the country and is number one in its home market, the North Central Region. The U.S. cannabis beverage market reached $3.9 billion in 2023 with Expert Market Research forecasting the cannabis beverage industry to multiply in value to $27.8 billion by 2032.

Climbing Kites is entering the Georgia market with its THC/CBD infused social beverage lineup beginning Tuesday, October 1, based on the passing of SB 494 and forthcoming rules from the Georgia Department of Agriculture. Consumers are invited to sample a variety of Climbing Kites beverages at a launch event on Thursday, Oct. 3 from 5-7 at Westside Motor Lounge (725 Echo St NW).

“Building brands during their early stages has always excited me,” said Herron. “The ability to work closely with Scott and the team at Climbing Kites is a tremendous opportunity. During its brief existence, Climbing Kites has positioned itself to lead the retail cannabis beverage market category during this period of unprecedented growth.”

During the partnership’s first two months, BevStrategy has already signed nearly 20 Anheuser Busch distributors across the South and are managing the active sales for Climbing Kites across Tennessee, North Carolina and Georgia with Florida, South Carolina, Alabama, and more Southern states to follow shortly thereafter. The brand’s portfolio of beverages will be available in numerous traditional adult-beverage retail outlets throughout Georgia.

The beverages have zero sugar, zero calories, and zero alcohol. Climbing Kites tests all its products by an accredited and independent lab to guarantee dosage and quality of THC/CBD within each product and that they are free of pesticides, herbicides, microbes, and any other potentially harmful materials. The lab results are publicly available via the Company’s website.

“Climbing Kites’ innovative team helped create a retail category that didn’t previously exist,” said Selix. “Introducing the first nonalcoholic beverage, which can be a trusted intoxicating alternative to alcohol, into Georgia and the South is a huge opportunity. These are highly social products that fit into the same settings as traditional alcohol, but with far more transparency and significantly fewer calories.”

Climbing Kites recently won two silver medals for its Pineapple Passion Fruit and Mixed Berry sparkling waters in the 2024 L.A. Spirit Awards. All Climbing Kites waters have zero sugars, they are gluten-free, vegan and use 100% naturally derived Delta-9 THC & full spectrum CBD. Current flavors include Orange Mango (2.5mg THC/2.5mg CBD), Peach Prickly Pear (5mg THC/5mg CBD), Pineapple Passionfruit (5mg THC/ 5mg CBD), and Mixed Berry (10mg THC/10mg CBD). Climbing Kites is currently available in Georgia, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Minnesota, Nebraska, North Carolina, Tennessee and Wisconsin with numerous additional states to be added in the near future.

Consumers must be 21 years and older. Please drink responsibly. For more information about Climbing Kites, please visit www.climbingkites.com or follow on facebook and instagram.