micropundit

FALL FAVES. Although summer is not yet officially over, I have already started to salivate over the prospect of some of the culinary treats headed our way this fall. Here are the restaurants that I feel will razz my berry come autumn. ROOM. Bob Amick and company’s first steakhouse-a genre that is fast becoming the new black, culinary speaking- located in the swank Twelve @ Centennial Park Hotel promises to put the ATL on the cutting edge of the other latest resto trend: hot hotel restaurants with one syllable names, i.e. CUT. CUERNO and BELEZA. U Restaurants dynamic duo brings the flavors of Spain and Brazil to Midtown in two well appointed and sexy projects. Midtown’s flavor profile just got put on blast. MF BUCKHEAD. Those badass Kinjo boys bring midtown cool to Buckhead that won’t be lost in translation in Atlanta’s first authentic izakaya, featuring robatayaki and yakatori cuisine as well as sushi. In addition to these projects, I am looking forward to Marvin Woods’ new project; STATS, a Concentrics downtown sports bar- ONE MIDTOWN KITCHEN meets the ESPN ZONE; and, AQUAKNOX, Las Vegas style seafood swims to Buckhead. Let me know if there are some other new hotspots you think will brighten up the dining scene this fall and I ,your knight in shining ardor, will get right on the case and add them to my list NEWS and NOTES (From my keyboard to your screen). Buckhead. The Buckhead Life Restaurant Group is opening their second restaurant outside of Atlanta this fall in West Boca Raton, Florida. Described as a smaller, more upscale version of THE ATLANTA FISH COMPANY, the restaurant whose name will be revealed later, will be designed by the Johnson Studio. Inman Park. SWEET POCKETS, located at 660 Irwin Street in the Irwin Street Market, is the latest cupcake spot for those who crave the petite sweet treats. Little 5 Points. FOX BROS. BAR-B-Q opened to the public Friday, August 24th , at 1238 Dekalb Avenue. Look for Texas style ‘que prepared on 2 custom built smokers. Midtown. TOAST is ah, toast. The spot that launched a couple of notable careers will become THE CYPRESS STREET CAFÉ in about 8 weeks after the new owners (HALO) complete the revamp that will include a new chef and décor. Moringside. POMODORO, an Italian spot with a value priced menu, has opened on Highland Avenue in the old PIZZA VINO location, across from FOOD 101. South Fulton. The Industry Bigfoot reports that THE HIL, the Serenbe folks latest, helmed by Hillary White (103 WEST), and its farm to fork cuisine is worth the drive, especially if you spend the night at The Inn next store. Vinings. The Fifth Group has welcomed back Chip Ulbrich as the new executive chef at SOUTH CITY KITCHEN’s Vinings location. The former top toque at both THE FOOD STUDIO and BOLD AMERICAN CATERING had been executive chef and owner at his restaurant in Beaufort, South Carolina since he left town. West Midtown. BACHANNALIA is featured in the September issue of GQ magazine’s section on “Hot Cities” as one of Atlanta’s star attractions. Question of the Week: What chef of a super hot local restaurant group has been given a big promotion that has them overseeing several of the company’s new restaurants menus and operations? (Could they be trying to keep them from a certain NYC chef who is opening a restaurant here?) Thank you for stopping by and remember that sometimes we like someone because but we love someone although. Have a great holiday! I will return on September 4th. PS. The answer to last week’s QOTW-What downtown owner of a petite French bistro is rumored to be planning a sushi bar next store -is Lenny Robinson ( LES FLEUR De LIS).

Go West young man. There was an interesting piece last week penned by John Kessler regarding a local foody guy being recruited to serve in the temple of California haute cuisine. Tucker Taylor, a manager for Athens’s Woodland gardens and-more germane- a mainstay at the weekly Morningside Farmer’s Market, has been tapped by uber chef Thomas Keller to tend his 2 acre organic garden at the hallowed FRENCH LAUNDRY in Yountville, California. His new duties include raising produce for the FL as well as Chef Keller’s other two California restaurants, AD HOC and BOUCHEN. The talented Mr. Tucker leaves behind the loyal customers at MFM as well as at the DINING ROOM at The Ritz Carlton Buckhead; BACHANNALIA; and, RESTAURANT EUGENE. (Talk about going to the mountaintop.) A tip of the toque to: THE ATLANTA GRILL; BONE’S; EMERIL’S; JOEL; THE DINING ROOM; NIKOLAI’S ROOF; and, VINE for receiving Wine Spectator magazine’s Best of Excellence Awards. Eat, drink and stomp some grapes: At Chateau Elan’s annual Vineyard Fest, Sunday, August 26th in Braselton, Georgia, three chefs, including the ATL’s Gary Mennie( TAURUS) and Joe TRUEX ( REPAST) are scheduled to present cooking demonstrations at Chateau Elan’s new CULINARY STUDIO. Festival attendees can also sip some of the more than 100 feature wines and stomp some grapes as well. Question of the Week: What owner of a downtown petite French bistro is rumored to be planning to open a sushi bar in an adjacent space? NEWS and NOTES (From my keyboard to your screen). Buckhead. R. THOMAS , the eclectic long time late night hangout , is rumored to be closing to make room for (another) high rise development. The 1 Hotel and Residences will feature a restaurant developed by famed New York gastroprenuer Steven Hanson’s B.R. Guest Restaurants.(FIAMMA,BLUE FIN) Downtown. Shane Devereux will be the opening chef at Maureen Kalmanson and Pamela Furr’s(PLEASANT PEASENT) PEASENT BISTRO. Located at 250 Park Avenue West, in the swank Centennial Park West Park condominiums, the restaurant will be housed in a two story space overlooking Centennial Park and feature a seasonal menu with French and Mediterranean influences. Lithonia. C’EST BON CAJUN SEAFOOD RESTARANT has closed. Morningside. YOFORIA, a local froyo group, is opening their first outpost at the former WHAT’S THE SCOOP location on Highland Avenue. Poncy Highland. PURA VIDA was highlighted by Gourmet Magazine as one of the” Top Latin Restaurants in 14 Cities” in their September issue. Thank you for stopping by and remember that everyone can see difficulties in opportunities, but a truly wise person sees opportunities in difficulties. PS. The answer to last week’s QOTW is Guenter Seeger.

The arbiters of taste. Atlanta’s food scene has been blessed with an abundance of good writers and critics over the last few years that have chronicled and critiqued the people and places that have made our city’s culinary reputation one that is nationally recognized. From Elliot Mackle to Christiane Lauterbach to Jonathan Lerner and the scribes at our newspapers, magazines and alternative publications, they all have provided a steady stream of informative and sometimes, inflammatory, reportage on the dynamic local market. As an advocate for Atlanta’s dining scene, I have followed their commentary closely and have been (mostly) a silent admirer of their craft. Any hagiographic statements that I have made were reserved, in the main, for John Kessler, the former dining critic and now food writer for the newspaper of general circulation, because of his in-depth style. But now comes a new voice that, in a relatively short time, has not only captured some national recognition for their writing but has set a new standard of excellence that appears to appeal to the various and diverse local constituencies as well. Beshell Rodell joins the many, the shameless, and the hackneyed who set out to tell us what they think about our restaurants, chefs and their cuisine and why. She has a fresh and often irreverent take on the local scene that, while somewhat limited by the fact that she writes for an atl weekly, still resonates with the foodarati. Let’s keep an eye on her people, she is bound for big things in the future and one day we can look back and say: I knew her when. Local chefs bring Southern style to the Big Apple. Congrats go out to Ford Fry (JCT KITCHEN & BAR) and Linton Hopkins (RESTAURANT EUGENE) for their invite to the James Beard House to prepare, along with Angie Mosier and Hugh Acheson, a southern dinner on Saturday, August 23. Question of the Week: What internationally renowned local chef who recently abandoned his eponymous restaurant to seek greener pastures is rumored to have returned and is looking for a restaurant project here in town? NEWS and NOTES (From my keyboard to your screen). Buckhead. MY PANINI, the brainchild of former hotel exec, Ned Barker, debuted in Lindberg City Center last month. The upscale diner features all paninis all the time and is the first of what is planned to be a national chain of eateries. You can look for a F20, the quick casual fresh to order place, opening in the sleek 3344 Peachtree tower when it opens this spring. Downtown. The much anticipated and highly secretive Atlanta IL MULINO restaurant has finally been publicly announced. The local paper of general circulation is reporting that the high end New York based Italian restaurant, that has outposts in Tokyo, Chicago, and Las Vegas, will open an Atlanta location in the 191 Peachtree tower. The $138 million renovation of the Marriot Marquis has produced some new and exciting food and beverage venues: SEAR, the hotels signature resto, is a modern steakhouse; PULSE, a cocktail lounge adorned with a 50 foot tall lighted sail;and, HIGH VELOCITY, a sports bar with 21 plasma televisions and a 40 foot matrix projection screen. Midtown. TOP ROOF, located at 674 Myrtle Avenue-across from MF SUSHI, is getting a lot of attention because of its eclectic menu that goes from hummus to tobacco ice cream and value pricing. Chef Mike Schon is the top toque. Oakhurst. Calavino Donata( ROMAN LILLY CAFÉ ) is opening CALAVINO’S on September 1st in Oakhurst Village. The menu will feature an Italian flair with some of the items coming from RLC’s menu. Michael Connelly, formerly of RESTAURANT EUGENE, will be the opening chef. South Fulton. Chef Tony Seachrist is taking a “culinary sabbatical” from Serenbe’s THE FARMHOUSE. On September 1st, Nicolas Bour of the next door BLUE EYED DAISY will assume the helm in Chef Tony’s absence. Thank you for stopping by and remember that a smile is a medium of exchange that is always worth more than its face value. PS. The answer to last week’s QOTW is LEGAL SEAFOOD.

Do you feel lucky? Cool. Sleek. Upscale. Modern. These are just some of the descriptions I had heard about LUCKY FOOD LOUNGE, the newbie that is located next store to the hot downtown attractions, The World of Coke and the Georgia Aquarium and after visiting it last week ,I can say that is all that and more. My visit was occasioned by an invite to a gathering of some of downtown Atlanta’s shakers and movers by The Industry Bigfoot, who moves in those circles. I arrived a bit early and was invited by the staff to wander around and so I did with some degree of skepticism; but that soon passed as I surveyed 15,000 square feet of a combination sports bar, diner, nightclub /sushi bar. The skepticism turned into wonderment-I wondered what the owners meant when they conceived the place. (Outsized) Don’t get me wrong, it is full of the standard architectural features guaranteed to wow the patrons but the flow and sequence of the layout puzzled me a bit. There weren’t any lines of demarcation that separated the functions so that if you were, say, not interested in seeing folks kicking it on the dance floor while you slurped your sushi, you would not be spared the sight/sounds. Maybe that just adds to the allure but for me it did not razz my berry. (Disjointed) The food served at the function was good but I will have to return to get a better handle on the cuisine here. The winner, IMO, is CHARM, the gelato bar/coffee shop that adjoins the resto. Nice space and even better gelato. All in all the location of this venture should spell success in one form or another.( Fortunately for them.) Question of the Week: What New England based upscale seafood chain is reportedly seeking a location in the ATL? NEWS and NOTES (From my keyboard to your screen). Buckhead. FADO’S IRISH PUB may have to move because of the recently announced, and soon to be under construction, The Streets of Buckhead, but it will not be far from its present location. They will be moving around the corner and down the street to a “slightly larger” location on Buckhead Avenue next to the library by years end. Speaking of the Streets of Buckhead project, they announced the first of several restos that are slated for the $1.2 billion mixed use development at the groundbreaking last Friday. Look for BOTTEGA DEL VINO, an Italian white table cloth restaurant with locations in Verona and Manhattan (with a $1million wine cellar) and LE GOULUE, a French bistro with a location at 64th and Madison, to open in 2009. Decatur. Batdorf and Bronson, the famed Washington state coffee negociantes, are opening a DANCING GOATS COFFEE BAR in downtown Decatur in late summer. Downtown. Chef Shane Touhy,formerly of Buckhead’s BLUE RIDGE GRILL, and business partner, Scott Black(BLUE RIDGE and BONES) have announced they are opening DOGWOOD RESTAURANT in the Reynolds condos at 565 Peachtree Street. The 5,000 square foot, 150 seat fine dining spot will feature a seasonal menu incorporating local and regional produce and includes a patio dining experience on Peachtree as well as a lounge and bar.(Norm357 scooped me on this) OLYMPIA PLACE, the upscale Greek/ Mediterranean spot located in the Georgia Pacific building at 133 Peachtree, is slated to open this fall. Midtown. Look for the BOOKHOUSE PUB to open at 736 Ponce De Leon late fall. Roswell. After 11 years in operation, the long time OTP fave, DICK and HARRY’S has closed. Well thank you again for joining our little chat and remember that success is a ladder, not an escalator. PS. The answer to last week's QOTW is:Drew Van Leuvan.

More Midtown magic, so they all say. Consensus about almost anything seems to be impossible in today’s superheated social and political environment. The people who share their food wit and wisdom with me are of varying persuasions and perspectives, both in life and their enjoyment of food and food related topics, and as such, rarely agree on any one thing, however there has been a curious consensus on the potential impact of two restaurants that will soon grace our shores. From the Industry Bigfoot and beyond, the air of anticipation surrounding the project of one of intown’s most respected chefs is both palpable and inspiring because it speaks to the growing sophistication and depth of Atlanta’s dining scene. The foodarati are lining up for the opening of BELEZA, Richard Ullio’s Brazilian juice bar and restaurant and CUERNO,his ode to Spanish cuisine that promises to do for Spanish cuisine what SOTTO SOTTO did for Italian cuisine. The two restaurants are located side by side in a swank new Midtown condo development at 905 Juniper and complete a neat little restaurant row, along with CHOCOLATE PINK PASTRY CAFÉ ,that should add further excitement to Midtown’s exploding restaurant scene. BELEZA will feature organic fruits blended into Brazilian soft drink favorites as well as artesian cocktails such as the classic caipirinha. Small plate options will include credos and ceviches, salads and lightly poached fish seasoned with artesian salts and oils. BELEZA will be open, initially, for dinner and late night Tuesday through Sunday. Michelle McKensie is the Executive chef. CUERNO will feature authentic regional Spanish cuisine such as paella accompanied by a progressive all Spanish wine list and of course,tapas. The décor, inspired by Spanish Modernism, includes rich fabrics; soft lighting and a life sized metal sculpture of a charging bull by sculptor Thomas Prochnow, whose work is featured in several local museums and galleries. Atlanta has been fortunate to have the big names such as Pano and Bob to bring us (their interpretation of) the next big thing. But there are some other folks out there who have some thoughts and talent as well. And these two restos should have an equal, if not greater, impact on the future dining scene as any other projects. At least that’s what those in the know are saying. Question of the Week: What is the Culinary Concierge and what is it proposing to bring to our city? NEWS and NOTES (From my keyboard to your screen) Airport. SWEETWATER BREWING COMPANY will open two operations at Hartsfield –Jackson in the next few weeks: SWEETWATER DRAFTHOUSE in concourse B and GEORGIA BROWN’S JUKE JOINT on concourse C.I guess some people will really be flying the friendly skies now. Buckhead. LITTLE CAKE BAKERY, a cupcake shop, has opened at 3792 Rosewell Road. Fuyuhito Ito will be the man to see at MF BUCKHEAD, the Kinjo brother’s sushi and more spot to open this fall. According to John Kessler, Chef Ito has the culinary skills,as well as the personality, to make the new spot an authentic Japanese ya. Dunwoody. Long time intown favorite, ALON’S BAKERY, is opening a second and larger store in the former EATZI’S in Park Place. It will feature gelato, house wares, gifts and “a few surprises”. Poncy Highland. The ATLANTA CUPCAKE FACTORY is now open at 624 Highland Avenue, between North Avenue and Ponce de Leon. Toco Hills. Check out SOL CATERING at 1145 Zonelite Road(near FLOATAWAY CAFÉ) and see a new slant from the TAQUERIA DEL SOL folks. Thank you again for stopping by and remember to be gentle with yourself, learn to love yourself, to forgive yourself ;for only as we have the right attitude toward ourselves can we have the right attitude toward others.

Tout and about.pt 2 Last week I continued my unrelenting research on the effect of restaurants as drivers of neighborhood revitalization here in Atlanta by delving further into the Midtown landscape at Atlantic Station. The occasion: the return of a certain Stanford student who had not only survived the first year but achieved high academic distinction in the process and therefore was to be rewarded with a meal at a restaurant of their choice .A choice that called in to play a place that I thought had had its 15 minutes of fame but has continued to grow as a restaurant to new heights. As matters unfolded, GEISHA HOUSE was packed on a Thursday night and due to the 30 minute wait, as well as the Hollywood vibe that the honoree found a bit off putting, we ended up at LOBBY. It turned out that, as we strolled among the populace steaming up and down Atlantic Station’s streets, the former freshman had already dined at DOLCE and was set on doing the scene at GH. So my suggestion, LOBBY, was met with cool indifference. But all that changed after the meal. LOBBY has still got “it”. Chef Nick’s execution is still first rate; the quality of the product as well as the service shine as well. And the beautiful people still hang out there. So, a good time was had by all in spite of the change in venue: I saw the vibrancy of our newest urban neighborhood and shared a great meal with a very deserving and special young person who thought LOBBY was” cool”. Atlanta may not have a plethora of 5 star dining experiences or be a hot bed of molecular gastronomy; however our street life and overall vitality is on the upswing, primarily due, in my opinion, to spots like LOBBY and GEISHA HOUSE that sit in some cool spots but set the tone for these neighborhoods as well. Question of the Week: What peripatetic ATL chef has joined the Concentrics crew (Bob Amick,et al) after the recent closing of the Midtown venture where he last served? NEWS and NOTES (From my keyboard to your screen). Buckhead. SIP the EXPERIENCE, an “urban lifestyle coffee lounge”, is scheduled to open in Lindbergh Center this month. SIP will feature a minimalist décor and serve six days a week. Manual Vasquez is the new top toque at HORSERADISH GRILL. Chef Manual, who ironically interned at the restaurant while attending culinary school, comes to the job from GEORGIA GRILL. JOEL will be closed from August 1 until September 5, for renovations. Castleberry Hill. A multi-level blues bar and restaurant is under construction at 177 walker Street. It will feature valet parking and an outdoor deck on its top floor. Will keep and eye out for further deets. Downtown. SUGAR LOUNGE and RESTAURANT opened June 23 at 257 Trinity Avenue. The two story brick structure houses a restaurant featuring American bistro food and a live entertainment venue. TACO MAC, the locally based wings chain, is looking to score big time with a recent announcement that they are planning a 2 story, 10,000 square foot, $2.5 million location at Phillips Arena., home of the Hawks, Thrashers and the Arena Football League’s Georgia Force. Midtown. Congratulations go out to the TROIS team: Atlanta magazine‘s “Restaurant of the Year” Virginia Highland. SALA has been sold by its creators, Fifth Group (ECCO), to the owners of neighboring restaurant VINE. Whoa-first Chef Jeff now this, what is going on!? West Midtown. In celebration of their sixth and highly successful month of operation, JCT KITCHEN & BAR is unveiling a new menu that includes wood grilled sea scallops served with buttery potato dumplings, warm bacon, pea greens and veal jus. They will also introduce live music every Friday and Saturday, starting at 9 pm on the terrace of the bar. Thanks once again for stopping by and remember that experience is like money; just when you think that you have enough of it, something happens to make you wish you had more.

Tout and about. I have finally completed the grand tour of Midtown’s tempting T’s in the 14th Street corridor- TAMARIND SEED; TAP; and, TROIS- and I have seen the future of Atlanta’s dining scene: small plates of cleverly prepared food served well in small but slick surroundings. First things first. Checked out TAMARIND 2.0 last week on a lark.-needed a place to where I could lend a shoulder to an XGF who was going through one of life’s ultimate tests. She is a big Thai fan and we used to frequent the old TAMARIND back in the day, so I suggested we check out the new place. So we dropped into the new place, without ressies, at 9:30pm and the place was full. We literally got the last table in the place. Long story short; they haven’t missed a beat with the food or the service. In fact, the men in black (as opposed to the ladies in white gowns at the old place) were spot on. They were prompt and attentive without being overbearing and had the right touch of humor and knowledge with their presentation. I had the sea bass and she had the shrimp with curry. Both dishes were just as we remembered them from the halcyon days. TAMARIND SEED is still one of the best in town in terms of value, quality and service. By the way, for those who care about these things-and you know who you are- the bathrooms are a smaller version of the ones at NAN’s My larger point is that the three aforementioned restaurants all have several things in common, besides their current popularity and close proximity to one another: their price points are lower that comparables of their respective genres, and they deliver their product in an up tempo atmosphere, accented by clever design. The bottom line is that they give great value for the experience. As this model is emulated more and more around town, we should see some really exciting things here in Atlanta’s dining scene. Question of the Week: What local pub/restaurant group may be having some federal tax issues? NEWS and NOTES (From my keyboard to your screen). Alpharetta. The ATL is getting into the froyo (frozen yogurt) mania that is sweeping the coasts. Atlanta entrepreneur Ernie Kim has gone to Korea (home of LA rage PINKBERRY) and has returned to perfect and unveil JUICY GREEN, a froyo concept whose first outlet is at 3719 Alabama Road. Downtown, Midtown and other locations are in the works as you read this. Buckhead. BRICKTOPS, an American bistro out of Nashville, is scheduled to open in Terminus this fall. Downtown. The developers of The Downtown Atlanta W Hotel and Residences are finalizing the lease for a “signature restaurant” within the next 30 days. Sources tell me that will be an out of town operator. East Atlanta. A very reliable source said to check out THE GLENWOOD at 555 Glenwood Avenue (the old CAMELLI’S spot). The gastopub has a high powered chef-BLUEPOINTE and MONCHRACET in NYC and aspirations for the dining scene in that ‘hood. Midtown. The former SOUTH of FRANCE location reportedly has a sign on it that says “Coming soon RAIN Asian /fusion. Vinings. Look for a ROLLING BONES to locate here by late fall. Virginia Highland. Scott Donnelly is the new executive chef at VINE. Thanks for dropping by and remember a decision is made with the brain; a commitment is made with the heart.

Not out of the Woods yet. Downtown Atlanta and its dining scene have been pronounced dead more times than the Hawks playoff hopes. While the current media focus is on all of the shiny new spots popping up all over Midtown and elsewhere, slowly, quietly and with increasing speed, downtown and its dining scene is starting to heat up. So much so that a bold face name chef who, here to for, was deeply committed to Midtown, has his sights firmly set on a downtown location for his first solo venture in the ATL. A chef who burst upon the scene with meteoric intensity but his Midtown project soon flamed out like the second Fantastic Four film. And we have not heard from him since. I am referring of course to Marvin Woods. Chef Marvin was recently quoted in the local paper of general circulation to the effect that he was looking at a place near the Atlanta Ritz Carlton to open under his ownership in October/November. Well after speaking with Marvin, what I can say about the deal is: that the location in question is the site of a former downtown hotspot and if the deal comes to fruition, it will be designed by one of Atlanta’s pre-eminent designers. The cuisine will feature Southern, Caribbean and African influences and has the backing of one of Atlanta’s prominent business and civic leaders. Look for a major production from a chef who is serious about his craft and his commitment to Atlanta’s culinary climate. There are of course other restos slated to come on line that promise to add some spice to downtown’s mix as well: ROOM at the Twelve Centennial Park Hotel; THE CAFÉ at the ELLIS HOTEL; and THE PEASENT BISTRO are all part of a growing trend that presages better days for downtown Atlanta and its dining scene. So despite the history, don’t be surprised when you hear some of the other “names” heading to the center city. Ladies and gentlemen, are you ready for star time? Congratulations are in order for Drew Belline(FLOATAWAY CAFÉ),Linton Hopkins(RESTAURANT EUGENE),Mihoko Obunai(REPAST), Hector Santiago(PURA VIDA),Drew Van Leuvan(SAGA-now closed), Chad Guay(TABLE1280), Joe Truex(REPAST), Eric Simkins(TROIS), Vajra Stratigos(Fifth Group) , David Larkworthy, Nick Oltarsh(LOBBY ), Ford Fry(JCT KITCHEN) and Kevin Rathbun(RATHBUNS) for being named Atlanta’s “Rising Star Chefs” by StarChef.com. Atlanta will host the awards event Wednesday, October 10th, from 7-9:30 pm at the Georgia Aquarium. Question of the Week: What top ranked television culinary show will include Atlanta contestants in its upcoming fourth season by holding an open call at the HARD ROCK CAFÉ Sunday, July 15th? NEWS and NOTES (From my keyboard to your screen). Buckhead. Kudos to SEASONS 52’s sommelier George Miliotes who recently earned his Master Sommelier certification. He becomes one of only 142 people in the world to hold this distinction. A votre sante ARIA is having an “interior refresh” done by, who else, Bill Johnson. It is expected to be completed by late summer. Downtown. Open less than three weeks-the official opening was held 7/07/07- the folks at LUCKIE FOOD LOUNGE are already planning expansions of the concept to Houston, Chicago Dubai and Las Vegas. Didn’t someone once say make no small plans? Inman Park. FRITTI was recently awarded certification by the World Wide Neapolitan Pizza Council as purveyor of authentic Neapolitan pizza; one of only 18 restos in the USA entitled to make that claim. A JAKE’S ICE CREAM has opened at 660 Irwin Street, just in time for summer slurping. Old Fourth Ward. Add CHARLIE’S BISTRO, a New York style deli located at 581 Edgewood Avenue -next to THUMBS UP, to this growing intown nabe’s resto roster. West Midtown. Congrats to the BACCHANALIA team: Zagats number one rated Atlanta restaurant for the 12th year in a row! THE FOOD STUDIO, the Fifth Groups initial foray into fine dining and the original warehouse chic spot is getting a face lift after 14 years and going upscale casual. Chef Mark Alba will remain at the helm. Hope everyone had a long and restful holiday. Thanks for stopping by and remember that well arranged time is a sure sign of a well arranged mind.

The man of a thousand places. This past week the Atlanta Urban Design Commission honored The Johnson Studio with an award for the 2006 renovation of ECCO, the Midtown hotspot which has received national recognition for its cuisine and design. This was a different type of award for the design guru who many credit with the national recognition-along with the chefs and restaurateurs -that Atlanta has received in the last 15 years. In my opinion, it was well earned by the honoree because for all of the awards that his designs have earned his clients, there has been little recognition on the part of the local design community for his efforts. Here is the guy who made design a component of the popularity index of Atlanta as well as created the space for other architects to achieve star status-and healthy fees-in the arms race that has characterized Atlanta’s dining scene over the last 10years and he has relegated to profit without honors status by his peers. In the phone conversation that I initiated to congratulate him on the award, Bill said that it was an award that he was most proud because it represented the revitalization of an historic building into a contemporary use that contributed to the neighborhood as well as the city. He also said that he is doing fewer projects in the ATL these days. (?) However, he is busier that ever with projects across the country; CHOPS LOBSTER BAR in Boca Raton; FEARINGS in the Dallas Ritz Carlton; and, a restaurant project in the Charlotte Ritz Carlton. He said that the Atlanta market is increasingly competitive but welcomes the competition. In fact, he hoped that someone will hire Adam Tihany to a project here and raise the bar on restaurant design for everyone here. Atlanta’s dining landscape has been shaped in large measure by the Johnson Studio’s work: a SEEGER ‘S; a BLUEPOINT; a RATHBUN’S or a JOEL. Some may decry Atlanta’s dining scene as characterized by over designed spaces (as well as mediocre service and inconsistent food.) Well from my perspective, there would be even less to complain about if not for the refinement and delicacy in performance, execution and artisanship emerging from Bill Johnson in his work on Atlanta’s premier restaurants. And let’s face it, wouldn’t TROIS have looked and felt a lot more exciting if Bill had done it? IJS Question of the Week: What smart and fashionable Buckhead restaurant is rumored to have lost its Executive Chef after being opened less than 7 months? NEWS and NOTES (From my keyboard to your screen). Brookhaven. After June 30th, the former M!X location at 1491 Dresden Road will be known as VALENZA. The menu will focus on the Piedmont region of Italy.(Valenza means valor in Italian). Buckhead. HOLMAN & FINCH PUBLIC HOUSE is the name of Linton Hopkins et al gastropub that will open this fall next to RESTAURANT EUGENE in the Aramore condos on Peachtree Road. Downtown. It is now confirmed: New York hotshot Jeffery Chodorow will open a MAXIM PRIME, a new high fashion steakhouse, in the Glenn Hotel. The developer confirmed it with me last week but I await further details. Local media is reporting that Chef Marvin Woods may soon have a new kichen to helm. he is slated to open a 180 seater near the Ritz Carlton this fall. Stay tuned. Inman Park. Look for THE ALBERT, a neighborhood bistro, opening this summer on Lake Drive. Poncy Highland. Look for a retail location for THE ATLANTA CUPCAKE FACTORY to open June 27 according to their web site. No address was provided but I’ll bet if you follow the throng of their fans you will find it. Thank you for your time and attention. I will be taking a long holiday so look for me on July 10th.Enjoy your holiday and remember the successful person is the one who can lay a firm foundation with all of the bricks thrown at them.

Last week was filled with the exploration of new places and the meeting of some new faces: I ‘m down with OTP. At the request of the Industry Big Foot I checked out WILFIRE, the steak and seafood joint near Perimeter Mall for lunch.(Yes, I went OTP-outside the perimeter) The Chicago import is the brain child of the famous Lettuce Entertain You restaurant group and their first foray south. Billed as a 1940’s era steakhouse, I expected WILDFIRE to be this dark, smoky film noir type of place. Wrong. The architecture was modern with a relatively neutral palette. The space was open and was surprisingly large. The menu while focused on steak and seafood, had some poultry and pasta dishes that looked good as well. I had the shrimp and crab bisque and prime rib; both were prepared well although I had to search a bit to find the crab in the bisque. Prices were right and the service was not bad. All in all, I would return. Tap that glass. I joined The Sage and the lovely Blissful Glutton at TAP last Friday and we and a throng enjoyed the great weather and great atmosphere at Bob Amick and company’s latest. Truly “a convivial place to have a pint”, TAP provides fun food, good beer and wine in a sexy setting-check out the lipstick red wall. It features pub grub at decent price points and friendly service that I noticed struggled at times because of the sheer volume that evening. Another thing that caught my eye was their attention to detail, down to the clever match containers and menu copy We yukked it up for a couple of hours while noshing on an assortment of superb savories that included an incredible beef tenderloin tartar and some outstanding stuffed ‘shrooms, stuffed with ox tail. We also had the house burger as well as halibut and scallop entrées served with a number of their house brews. The crowd, and it was a crowd with a capital C, included a number of ladies dressed to thrill! There were also several of the local food writers already on the case. I even spotted a prominent local developer, who is partnering with Bob on a downtown project, scoping out the action. Folks, there was major buzz in the air; it made you want to be… shall we say be very,very friendly. At the end of the evening, all I could say was: Our Bob, whose art is heaven, hallowed be thy game. Question of the week: What super star bi-coastal chef has a listing seeking managers on Atlanta’s Craig’s list? NEWS and NOTES (From my keyboard to your screen). Buckhead. The next FLYING BISCUIT project will be in the new Terminus development ,according to the Atlanta Business chronicle. MICK’s on Bennett Street has shuttered. According to press reports, the under construction Mansion on Peachtree’s second resto (CRAFT being the first) will be a” chi-chi Italian themed restaurant” that will be owned and operated by it’s parent company, Rosewood Properties(MANSION ON TURTLE CREEK). Decatur. Long time downtown Decatur main stay, VIET CHATEAU, has closed. Downtown. The latest intel has it that ROOM at Twelve Centennial Park will open in August. Inman Park. PARISH, the New Orleans themed resto from-you guessed it-Bob Amick will feature, in addition to the restaurant, a New Orleans grocery component as well. Midtown. M!X, the Brookhaven hotspot is rumored to be closing and moving to Midtown, reportedly because of a” really sweet deal from a developer”. Thank you again for stopping by and remember that the most sincere compliment we can pay is attention.

The quiet but growing roar of excitement that is building up locally around the return of molecular gastronomy guru Richard Blais has made me wonder whether or not better days are ahead for Atlanta’s dining scene? After the much chronicled-and debated-departures of Guenter Seeger and Sotohuri Kosugi, along with Mr. Blais, Atlanta looked as if it was losing its dining mojo. Various national and even international scribes seemed to consign Atlanta to the (further) cultural backwaters; arguing that, in effect, the loss of these stars proved that Atlanta’s culinary sophistication, as it were, was a mile long but only an inch deep. Ouch. Now, after our winter of discontent, comes not only the return of King Richard but news of the impending arrival of some of New York’s bold face names as well. Buckhead ,the self styled Beverly Hills of the South, will have a Las Vegas flair along Peachtree Road with the impending arrivals of AQUAKNOX and CRAFT. Downtown is rumored to be the object of not only Jeffery Chodorow’s affections but has drawn the attention of one of Gotham City’s Italian stalwarts as well. And Midtown, the current hotspot according to the folks in the know, continues to attract bold face names from both coasts. The latest rumor has a major Beverly Hills steakhouse being located in the high rise of a major Manhattan developer. So we shall see what we shall see: maybe the retooled JOEL will become the new SEEGER’s( a Mobile 5 star); perhaps FAB will become our BALTHEZAR; who knows, ROOM maybe our CRAFTSTEAK. But all I know is that the dining scene doesn’t look as dismal as it did just a few months ago. Question of the Week: What local steakhouse GM has a budding career as a sports talk radio host? NEWS and NOTES (From my keyboard to your screen). Buckhead. Word from an insider is that the Buckhead Life Group’s flagship resto at 3344 Peachtree is going to be a “major” project. ( The inside is an internationally recognized architect) Will this be Pano’s long awaited brasserie? Can you say LeCIRQUE? Downtown. Chef Bennett Hollberg has assumed the top toque at THE ATLANTA GRILL in the Ritz Carlton Atlanta. Chef Bennett, a native Atlantan, comes from The DINING ROOM at the Ritz Carlton Buckhead, where he was sous chef under both Bruno Menard and current chef, Arnuad Berthelier. Midtown. THE FIFTH RUNWAY, serving middle eastern cuisine, has relocated from College Park near the airport(hence the name) , to 420 14th Street. The INDEPENDENT, a bistro, bar and billiards parlor has opened at 930 Monroe Drive. They serve fried twinkies(?) According to one of our intrepid readers, SAGA closed this past Saturday, June 9th.A bidding war may ensue for the services of Chef Drew Van Leuven. Sandy Springs. Tom McCheachen, formerly of HORSERADISH GRILL, will be the new chef when RAY’S ON THE RIVER reopens this summer. Vinings. Rumor has it that J. CHRISTOPHER’S will take over the old DOC CHEY’S spot. Thank you for dropping by and remember that stories of past courage can offer hope and provide inspiration but courage itself comes from within your own soul.

The theme of John Kessler’s well written article in the June issue of Food Arts magazine is that one of Atlanta’s growth industries is opening new restaurants and judging from all of the openings scheduled for this month alone-as well as the last week of May-he is spot on. With restaurants the caliber of KEVIN RATHBUN STEAK; Richard Blais’s ELEMENT; and, TAMARIND SEED all coming online the last week in May, Atlanta had what would be considered a bumper crop for the year in most places. But wait, there is more: TAP opens June 8th and BELEZE and CUERNO, Richard Ullio’s latest creations, as well as ROOM at Twelve Centennial Park Hotel from Bob Amick are all scheduled to open this summer. All of these to be closely followed by the openings of AQUAKNOX, MF SUSHI and BRICKTOPS at Terminus in Buckhead late summer/early fall. So strap on the feed buckets folks and enjoy the latest in what appears to be a resurgence of intown restaurants that will offer a wide variety of options to the consumer. I guess my only question is will there be enough demand to meet the growing supply? Question of the Week: Who are Patrick Columbo and Mike Chen and what are their plans for Atlanta’s dining scene? NEWS and NOTES (From my keyboard to your screen) Buckhead. CITY GARDEN, a Chinese resto on Peachtree near CAFÉ INTERMEZZO, has closed. CHIMA,nee BOI NA BRAZIL, has closed for “renovations”. Perrine Prieur is the new sommelier at JOEL. She comes to our fair city from the Michelin 3 star LE GAVROCHE in London. Welcome! Downtown. The answer to last week’s question of the week was revealed in John Kessler’s piece in the newspaper of general circulation on hotel dining: look for a MAXIM PRIME, a Jeffery Chodorow creation, in the Glenn hotel in the former BED space. MAXIM PRIME is a steakhouse concept geared to the 20-34 demographic that combines Chodorow’s flair with Maxim the magazine’s money. South Fulton. In a trend that seems to have started with his former business partner, Bob Amick,(TROIS,TAP) Steve Nygren has hired famed interior designer Stan Topol to design THE HIL, Hilary White’s French bistro at Serenbe. Virginia Highland. Chef Steven, Chef de Cuisine at DISH, has departed to Nashville to look into opening his own resto. Owner, Sherri Davis will return to the kitchen in the interim. Thank you for stopping by and remember that tenderness and kindness are not always signs of weakness and despair but often are manifestations of strength and resolve.

First, let me say thank you for all of your kind words and comments and second, I hope that my future will include far fewer computer issues. Now, let’s get this party started. I had the pleasure of chatting and chewing with both the Sage and the Industry Bigfoot together last week and based on their comments, the ATL’s dining scene is in for some good things in the near future. We can expect some more “big name” restos to grace our shores, according to the dynamic duo. Some of the names will be familiar to habitués of the Las Vegas and New York dining scenes. One of the drivers of this movement is the recent spate of ultra luxe development, including hotels and commercial centers. The IB cited the recently announced Buckhead Avenues as an example: the developer is focused almost exclusively on big name’ restos and retail, many not currently in the South. The Sage opined that there will more press coverage concerning the trend of 5 star hotels to utilize high end restos to add to their cache. He also said to watch for the piece on the Atlanta dining scene in the June edition of Food Arts magazine. So stay tuned; as I know more, you will now more. I also got a pre-opening look at RATHBUN STEAK last week, conducted by the man himself. In launching his latest Inman Park spot, Kevin is truly staking his claim on the community. The modern, organic lines of the place epitomize the evolution of a once moribund neighborhood into a dining and living community whose future is second to none in the metro area. He promises to serve only Allen Brothers, dry aged beef-no “prime crime” here- and to cook it on two 1800 degree broilers: a ‘PETER LUGER” steak at Atlanta prices. There will also a focus on small plates and other meats and fish as well as a mixture of Italian, Creole and Asian items. Opening Wednesday, May 30th, the latest from the Kansa City Kid looks like a winner from where I sit. Question of the Week: Who is Jeffery Chodorow and what are his plans for Atlanta? NEWS and NOTES (From my keyboard to your screen) Buckhead. Acoording to Restaurant & Institution magazine’s top 100 independent restaurant listings for 2006, CHOP’s was the top grossing resto in the ATL and 46th in the USA with $13 million in gross revenues. BONES was ranked # 95 and the ATLANTA FISH MARKET was 99th.The top grossing reso was TAO RESTAURANT and NIGHTCLUB in Las Vegas with $55.3 million! IL BACIO, a NYC pizza transplant has opened in the shopping center at the corner of Piedmont Road and Sidney Marcus drive. Downtown. LUCKY FOOD LOUNGE opened last week with Executive chef Alaska Dzameishie(HOUSTONS,J.ALEXANDERS) at the helm along with Nicolas Crawford(MID CITY CUISINE) as pastry chef and Rasmey Hong as the sushi guy. Grant Park. DOC CHEY’S founder Richard Chey is brining his “star” power to Memorial Drive’s Park condos. He is opening STELLA NEIGHBORHOOD TRATTITORIA, a 160 seat resto there that is scheduled for a fall debut. (Stella is Italian for star). Midtown. FIGO founder and pasta impresario, Mirko di Giacomantonio , is slated to open ALLEGRO, a high end Italian fine dining spot, in July in the Belvedere condos, located at 560 Dutch Valley Drive-up the street from ONE MIDTOWN KITCHEN. One of HANK’S ICE CREAM 2 new locations will open on 10th Street this fall. Virginia Highland. It looks as if the tenure of Chef Jeff at SALA is coming to and end: Fifth Group is advertising for an executive chef for the seemingly snake bitten spot. Rumor has it that he will return to Phoenix in two weeks. Thanks again for your support and remember that an army of sheep led by a lion would defeat an army of lions led by a sheep.

Folks, sorry about this week-technical difficulties. On Tuesday I will have a double doobie for you! Have a great and safe holiday.

On Tuesday, May 8th, Atlanta became part of the land of the rising fun with the opening of L A hotspot GEISHA HOUSE in Atlantic Station. I got a chance to check out this casual chic place whose decor and menu were designed with socialization in mind just before the grand opening and was impressed. The main floor of the two level space features, among other things, a 20 foot long sushi bar light in deep ruby red tones; lush banquettes; and sleek cocktail tables all artfully arranged to create a sociable vibe throughout. A wall of shimmering candles perfectly accents the room that showcases Asian themed art on the remaining walls. The second level is more”EL-LAY”: the furnishings are mad mod (and fun) and the lighting is more subdued. There is a wrap around balcony that overlooks Atlantic Stations two main drags and is sure to be in great demand in the warm months ahead. Although the final finishing touches were not in place during my visit, it was plain to me that the second level offered a lot of promise for both dining as well as chilling out. The food: pristine product; the sushi was well sourced and there is wide variety available, including some novelty items like surf and turf. Dishes to try include the miso cod, the eel roll (my fave) and the yuzu tart for dessert. The staff was still going through training so I can’t make that call but they seemed to be eager and willing. Shelby Case is one of the key staffers in the operation who look like they are committed to making the customer experience at GEISHA HOUSE second to none. So there you have it, the ATL’s newest sushi hotspot is up and running and it looks like it will go the distance. Question of the Week: What national barbeque chain is closing all 6 of their Atlanta locations as part of a company retreat from the line of business? NEWS and NOTES (From my keyboard to your screen). Buckhead. THE LOOP pizza bar has closed. Decatur.Congrats to WATERSHED’S Scott Peacock on his 2007 James Beard award for best chef of the Southeast. He joins Guenter Seeger, Anne Qutrano, and Joel Antune as an Atlanta awardee of this prestigious honor. Speaking of WATERSHED, look for a retail location this summer from the artesianal coffee roasting company Bendorf and Bronson, across the street .The store will be designed to look like a wine store and will feature highly trained baristas and specialty drinks. In addition to selling specialty blends. M idtown. Scott Black, formerly of BONES, is opening a restaurant in the Renoylds condominiums on Peachtree Street. Richard Blais will be taking over as culinary director of Element on the corner of west peachtree and 11th and relaunching it as Element gastro lounge and food lab. Grant Park. According to Creative Loafing, the city’s weekly alt newspaper, HANK’S ICE CREAM is losing its lease this June. (This is not good: where will I fix my butter pecan jones ?) Marietta. NUCCI’S , a Philadelphia based gelato franchise, has opened at 1050 E. Piedmont at the corner of Roswell Road. Virginia Highland. FIGO is now open at the former PAD THAI spot. Thank you for dropping by and remember sometimes adversity reveals genius while prosperity conceals it.

It is received wisdom that a trend that many restaurants are following is to feature smaller plates, chef driven menus, value pricing and a trendy bar. A prime example of this trend is the gastropub:a term coined from the English public house or bar that features good food as well as good brews and beverages. If a recent press release from Bob Amick is any indication, then Atlanta is about to have one of the trendier gastropubs in the country. TAP, the gastropub slated to open this spring at 1180 Peachtree Street, will be..”a two story space with a patio facing Peachtree that features a simple but eclectic menu”. The name comes from the extensive wine and draft beer selection that will be served along with seasonally driven, innovative comfort food. The kitchen will be headed by Todd Ginsberg who has ALAIN DUCASSE and the DINING ROOM at the Ritz Carlton Buckhead on his impressive bio. He promises to use only the freshest ingredients available and has toured the best gastropubs in London to prepare for this job. The space was designed by Taylor Dawson and John Otegen(TROIS). The focal point on the first floor will be a large bar with a ceiling created by a 72 barrel glass enclosed vault where beer and wine will be stored and served from. The second floor will feature an open kitchen with counter seating. When I finished reading the information, I thought that once again there will be a blend of location,14th and Peach; modern design; and a chef with a great pedigree-all of the elements that are increasingly driving the marketplace both here and around the country. I can hardly wait to see how this spot turns out. Question of the Week : What big time national chain is rumored to be reducing the number of its Atlanta units? NEWS and NOTES ( From my keyboard to your screen) Buckhead. Look for a gastropub to open in the space next to RESTAURANT EUGENE operated by one of their staff with the support of Hopkins. Marietta. Chef David Chang has left TASTY CHINA. Rumor has it that he will take his stellar Sichuan culinary skills to another OTP location. Midtown. The word on the street is that TACO MAC will take the former location of JOEY’S MEXICAN GRILL and STOOL PIGEONS in the Metropolis condos and open this fall. According to their liquor license application, TAMARIND SEED , will be the name on the front of the Colony Square location of the former TAMARIND. Guess that means that SPICE MARKET will be one of the restos in the Midtown W hotel, slated to come on line in 2008. Vinings. Look for C& S OYSTER BAR in the Cobb County ‘hood this summer. Thank you for stopping by and remember what most people need to learn in life is how to love people and use things, instead of loving things and using people

My lunch with the Industry Bigfoot at FRENCH AMERICAN BRASSERIE last week convinced me that not only is this place is a star but it is a portend of things to come for downtown. The food, décor and service all set FAB apart from the madding crowd. There is a balance here: the design is beautiful without being intimidating; the menu reflects the Le BERNADIN DNA both in the execution and style; and the service is experienced and efficient. In contrast to TROIS and JOEL, there is warmth that Frabrice brings to his place that will attract a wide and diverse clientele. During my visit, the place was poetry in commotion. From my patio vantage point I saw everyone from tourists to business people packing in the place and being served professionally. They had to have done at least two turns on that day alone. With all of the development scheduled for the Allen Plaza area, the future looks promising for a place that combines the best elements of French and American cosmo cuisine in a comfortable setting with gracious service. Question of the Week: What famed national chain, famous for its upscale casual style and menu, is rumored to be reducing the number of it Atlanta units? NEWS and NOTES (From my keyboard to your screen). East Atlanta. Rumor has it that HASS, as in the pear, will be the new na me of the spot that used to be IRIS/CRAVE. Emory. Look for an expansion of FLOATAWAY CAFÉ by fall at the earliest. Lindberg Center. Look for MY PANINI, SAXBY’S COFFEE SHOP and SIP, a wine bar, this fall. Midtown.LOCA L UNA is relocating to the old RED CHAIR space Look for a RITA’S WATER ICE in Midtown Plaza. TROIS is the only Atlanta entry on Conde Nast Traveler’s annual hot list. The list is includes restaurants, clubs and spas that had designs, services that “transcended industry standards”. South Fulton. Hillary White, 103 West, will open a spot called HIL in Serenbe this fall. The South will rise again. Thanks again for stopping by and think how rarely we weigh o ur neighbor in the same balance in which we weigh ourselves.

Last week Forbes magazine published an article rating the top 10 restaurant cities in America and guess what city came in #8? Well bingo, you are now a certified savant and soothsayer-but the real deal (aside from my extreme distrust of anything in Forbes-I am a Fortune guy) was that we were ahead of Las Vegas but behind Houston and D.C. Now I am no expert- I just play one on the internet- but it is hard to imagine how they came up with that order. Although the story had KYMA in Midtown, they did spell our name correctly. And at this stage of the game any publicity that our dining scene gets is a net plus. After all, we have suffered the loss of one of our two Mobil Five Star restaurants and several noted chefs recently. BTW, when are Marvin (Woods) and (Richard) Blais’s new projects coming on line? So I guess I will just have to count our blessings and strive to keep hope alive that someday, someway Atlanta will receive even better national recognition for our dining scene. Who knows, it may come from a nationally recognized authority on the subject. Question of the Week: What long time superstar chef, who has made his bones with two eponymous upscale restaurants, (including his current one), is now branching out into opening restaurants in Buckhead luxury retirement homes? NEWS and NOTES: (From my keyboard to your screen) Atlantic Station. The Atlanta Wine Festival, held last month at Atlantic Station, raised a record $1.6 million for the High museum. Last year’s total was $1.1 million. Buckhead. On a less upbeat note, Greg Gammage, long time executive chef at BONES, passed away at age 48 last week. Under his leadership, not only was the Buckhead resto one of “the “spots for the city’s shakers and movers but consistently ranked as one of the nation’s top steakhouses as well. RIP. JOEL is getting a complete makeover. The French themed brassiere, helmed by Jame Beard award winner Joel Antunes, will be split into an 80 seat bistro and a 100 seat fine dining establishment by the Johnson Studio, the original architects. An early summer completion is anticipated. Decatur. Finally: Lyn Sawicky’s MEAT SEAFOOD and MORE is scheduled to open this week after some interesting setbacks, she never gave up. East Atlanta. CENCI, a “graze friendly” vegetarian café has opened at 125 Glenwood Avenue. Virginia Highland. Chris Reid-MURPHY’s,WOODFIRE GRILL- is the new GM and sommelier at VINE. Thanks once again for dropping by and remember that sometimes it is better to follow well than to lead indifferently.

Noticed that too. Most I already know, but a few I don't like this weeks. ← But I acknowledge when you guys get them right. Seriously , I don't usually follow up because of time constaints but just because it is you guys (and I had a break today), I am following up:the answer is Tom Colicchio and CRAFT going in to The Mansion on Peachtree hotel.

The recent Iron Chef America contest featuring Atlanta’s Linton Hopkins was the first time that I had seen the show and at the conclusion I thought about how much I enjoyed the spectacle and, more telling, how one of Atlanta’s top chefs is easy to admire but hard to adore. While I did not disagree with the verdict-Iron Chef Morimoto was declared the victor- many locals did, crying favoritism because two of the judges worked in Japan and one was Japanese. My view was that while Chef Hopkins’ cooking was great, Chef Morimoto exhibited greater creativity in his preparation and presentation. But another factor, at least in my mind, was that in terms of theater, Chef Hopkins did not project the sense of mastery or even conceit that separates the greats from the very goods. In short, he did not look /sound like a champion. Maybe that is a function of his personality or a function of the Atlanta market. We do have a tendency to value collegiality over competence in culinary affairs (eg.,Messers Seeger and Sotto). But what ever the case, Chef Hopkins did not razz my berry in terms of how he came across on camera and this was a televised contest. Just something for future contestants to ponder- part of the contest is based on perception and being good ain’t good enough, you have got to look good as well. Question of the Week: What hot NYC chef is taking his long anticipated concept to Buckhead after originally favoring Midtown/downtown locations? NEWS and NOTES ( From my computer to your screen). Restaurant design guru Bill Johnston, fresh off his work at the Ritz Carlton Dallas, is now working on a project for the Ritz Carlton Charlotte. 1138 Peachtree. Folks remember that address because it will be the site of one of the most amazing hotels and buildings this city has ever seen and if, as rumored, it is a Mandarin Oriental, look for a true 5 star restaurant there as well. Castleberry Hill. Check out ZENNUBIAN 7, an Afro-Asian tea room at 163 Peters Street. It features a menu of, gourmet teas, salads and sandwiches along with rice and noodle dishes. Decatur. 5th EARL MARKET, across from Agnes Scott College, has just opened. It is a sandwich, soup and salad place with some great beer selections as well. Downtown. According to the Industry Bigfoot, John Metz-AQUA BLUE- is looking for a location for a restaurant/bar near the Georgia Aquarium. He is a major player in the OTP market and the fact that he is now looking to set up shop downtown is huge. Inman Park. Look for THE ELBERT from Tia Landeau( sister of Jeff Landeau of Metrotainment restaurant group) to open near SOTTO SOTTO this fall. Midtown. Word on the street is that SPICE is now closed and that the property is now in the hands of Chris”Ludicris” Bridges. West Midtown. Rumor also has it that the Brickworks development on Marietta street has snagged a 5 SEASONS BREWING to locate next to TOSCANOS and SONS .Look for it to come on line next year. Thank you for stopping by and checking the column out and remember that patience can be a bitter plant but sometimes it bears sweet fruit.

The race between the top restaurant groups in town to create the next “it” product has taken on a new dimension: the big 3-Concentrics, Here to Serve and Fifth Group- all have new and better web sites. And with the new announced projects coming on line-TAP, LOLA ,etc, these new web sites signal a renewed battle for the hearts and wallets of Atlanta and its visitors. The first thing that caught my eye was the use of sharper graphics. All of these companies had been using some out dated technology on their prior sites. They now look as if some major money was spent to upgrade. This is a good thing because (1) they had it to spend and (2) felt it to be necessary to spend. The second thing that caught my eye was how they featured their newest/ future projects. That made me want to learn more about the projects and of course anticipate the project‘s arrival. For all of the buzz being generated around the respective projects it appears that we may just be seeing the tip of the iceberg in terms of exciting new dining spots. Not only are the big 3 riding high but independents and out of town operators are all trying to tap into the major demographics of Atlanta as well. Atlanta’s population and job projections are eye-popping and the income and purchasing power data are not to shabby either. So the guys with the home field advantage so to speak are trying to keep their roll going. And the revamping of their electronic marketing is just the first step. So keep your eyes open for some great new faces and places to come. Question of the Week: What in town tapas fan favorite may have to move their proposed expansion because of landlord issues? NEWS and NOTES ( From my keyboard to your screen): Congratulations to John Kessler on his James Beard nomination in the Newspaper features writing with recipes category. Congratulations to Atlantan Alton Brown for the Food Network’s Peabody Award for his self produced show “Good Eats”. Congratulations to chef Linton Hopkins for a fine but unsuccessful effort last evening on Iron Chef America. If the secret ingredient had been chicken ... . Buckhead. According to Atlanta Magazine’s food critic, POSH may be Atlanta’s first English cuisine restaurant. In contrast to other local critics who have had reservations about the excitement factor of the menu, she found the menu to be a good example of type of cooking befitting Tom Catherall’s heritage. And with London now being recognized as a global dining leader, maybe Tom is charting a course that will attract some of that attention. After all posh is an English term for exclusive. Downtown. FAB is scheduled to open Thursday, April 12th. The $5 million project will have 70% of its original staff and many of the fixtures from its former site in Buckhead, all in 15,000 square feet. According to reliable sources, DEL FRISCO’S Steakhouse is high on the list of prospective tenants for at least two major downtown developers. Midtown. A serious source has informed me that there has been a change in chefs at SWEET LOWDOWN. Film at 11. Virginia Highland. VINE has new ownership. Entrepreneur John Polasky has purchased the wine focused eatery and has already brought in two new sous chefs to assist executive chef Tammy Harrison. Thank you for stopping by and remember that every time you avoid doing right you increase your disposition to do wrong.

The birth of the cool is not slowing down for intown Atlanta’s dining scene. New faces and new places are the fuel and catalyst for the urban revitalization that is springing up all over town. And with the arrival of all the warm weather, it is time to check it out. On the Westside there is Toscano and Sons, a hip Italian foods store/ sandwich shop; downtown there is Thrive, an uber cool bar/lounge/ restaurant that is packing in the cool crowd(at least during my visit) ; and, in Midtown Fune Sushi Bar is creating a buzz with its look and revolving sushi bar. People of all kinds are now noshing in places formerly regarded as strictly off limits or in the case of Vino Libro, didn’t even exist. All of these spots as well as many, many more are setting a tone for the coming change in our urban fabric, a change that will bring more and varied dining options set in new and dynamic environments Speaking of new and dynamic environments had a chance to check out the new menu and new look, via Bill Johnson, of Sala this weekend and was impressed. Chef Jeff Smedstad’s carnitas are the bomb and he is a nice guy as well. And the lime crème brulee will have assaulting your maternal parental unit. Will return and soon. Question of the Week? What recently returned former in town hot shot chef is assisting an OTP restaurant as their first project? NEWS and NOTES( From my keyboard to your screen). Downtown. Lou Spost, executive chef of the Hilton Atlanta, has been named “Chef of the Year” by the United Culinary Chefs Association. Inman Park. Mind Spaces Tea Bar and Lounge has opened at 312 North Highland. It bills itself as a zen tea space with a koi pond in the back yard. Midtown. Word on the street is that Richard Ullio-Sotto Sotto- went to Spain in his search for an opening chef for Cuerno, his Spanish spot set to open this summer in the 905 Juniper condos. Poncy Highland. Mirror of Korea, the long time spot next to the LaFont Theater has closed. Roswell. Look for BA Ice Cream next to the Swallow in the Hollow this summer. Thank you much for stopping by and remember some people dream of doing great things while others stay awake and accomplish them.

On the advice of The Sage, I checked out one of Atlanta’s newest and coolest restaurants last week and had had a blast. The back story is that the occasion was a special personal celebration and I was going be hanging with the classy lady. So I had to have a special place for a special lady. And that place was RARE. Hip, sexy with great food to boot, our take on this in town hot spot was that it has an east village vibe. The lobster mac ; shrimp and hoppin’ john ;and, sweet potatoes were all great. The music and the movies on the wall were on point also. But it was the service that made our night. So when you are in the mood for fun, food and finesse; RARE is for you. Question of the Week: What NYC luxury Italian chain is being strongly pursued for a downtown spot? NEWS and NOTES ( From my keyboard to your screen) : Congrats to Besha Rodell, Scott Peacock and Arnaud Berthlier for their 2007 James Beard nominations. Buckead. BURRITO BROTHERS on Piedmont is now a ZESTOS, again. Castleberry Hill. Look for a 5,000 square foot European bistro from the APRES DIEM folks in a new project slated to open in 2008. Downtown. NEW ORLEANS, THE PEOPLES RESTAURANT, has opened at 255 Mitchell Street serving lunch and dinner. East Atlanta. CRAVE, nee IRIS, has closed. Midtown.GOLDBERG”S BAGEL and DELI is now open in Colony Square. Thanks for stopping by and remember that to be rich is not the end, but only a change of worries.

The local paper of general circulation has published its Spring Dining Guide and it represents a very good snapshot of what it(read food critic) considers Atlanta’s top 10 restaurants; a celebration of Southern cuisine ; the city’s best players in that field; and, a peek at some of the coming attractions for the dining scene. All in all, the guide is a tasty morsel but there were a few clunkers. A top 10 list that doesn’t include RESTAURANT EUGENE is probably going to stir up a few folks but having newcomer ECCO in its place … I don’t know about that one. While the layout and cover were tight, as was the copy, there were some typos and placing JCT KITCHEN in Buckhead in the upscale southern cuisine section seemed to be something that should have been caught before the guide went to print. There were some juicy tidbits sprinkled throughout that spiced up the narrative like the fact that star sommelier Chantelle Grilhot has left the THE DINING ROOM at the Ritz Carlton. I had not heard that; my understanding is that she is studying for her Master Sommelier exam BUT when she does get that prize she is on her way to bigger and better. (Can you say New York) Last, but not least and this personal pet peeve: the Guides should be given more real estate and the paper quality must be on a par with the content-first class. This is a publication that could and should serve as a stand alone guide for tourists and conventioneers but in its current format doesn’t reflect Atlanta at its best. I hope that in the future that the powers that be recognize the value add that these guides provide and act accordingly. In the mean time let’s hope that contents continue to be spot on and reflective of the serious dining scene that Atlanta represents. Question of the Week: What intown sports grill may not be making its numbers after a hot start in this market? NEWS and NOTES (From my keyboard to your screen): Buckhead. La MADELEINE, the long time West Paces Ferry favorite, has given up the ghost. ALI-OLI, a hidden jewel, has a new owner because founder Ophelia Santos, has sold her last restaurant to Andreous Papandreau. No immediate changes are planned. Castleberry Hill. Look for NOIR, a sexy lounge cum restaurant to open this spring at 264 Peter Street. College Park. Look for PHILLIPS SEAFOOD, a Baltimore Washington DC fave , to open at the airport this summer. Downtown. According to the Spring Dining Guide, ROOM is now the name of the Bob Amick resto opening late this summer at the Twelve Centennial Park hotel. Chef Nick Oltarsh of LOBBY is creating a “contemporary steakhouse menu with prime meats and fish, skewered goodies cooked in a tandoori oven and some sushi.” So it’s LOBBY steak and sushi. Midtown. TROIS makes the March issue of Gourmet Magazines national restaurant round up of hot places. FUNE SUSHI BAR, in the Spire condo tower, has opened and brought a kaiten place - Tokyo style conveyor belt sushi service- to the ATL. Thank you for your kind indulgence and remember that when we do good it frees the heart and opens us up to the wellspring of happiness.

I have been informned by the managers of RADIAL that news of their demise is greatly exaggerated. The Chandler Park restaurant is expanding and doing well. Sorry about the error.