Table for Two

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In Case You’re Hungry this Week…

03/08/2010 in Buckhead, Events!, Inman Park, Restaurant Weeks, Where we're Eating by Lauren | 4 comments

Please do not forget that it is BUCKHEAD RESTAURANT WEEK. I can’t wait to eat at Anis tonight! I’m feeling very French already...

You know, in Paris they're just "fries"

I know it’s late notice, but the INMAN PARK SPRING RESTAURANT WEEK is also 03/08 (today!) through 03/14!

The Q+DD on IPRW: You know the drill. Great restaurants at a crazy discount. One week only! Although, as a good-karma extra, this Spring, the event will benefit the Believe In Me Foundation, which supports the education and welfare of children with autism and is led by Chef Shaun Doty.

Bonus: $1 raffle tickets will be sold and will go towards the charity.  The Winner will win an hors d’ouerves, beer and wine party for 30 people hosted by Kevin  Rathbun.  Each participating chef will create an appetizer, chooose beer and wine, and celebrate the evening  with thirty of the winner’s friends.  

As in IPRWs past (view my previous post here) the restaurant discounts are in tiers:

$15: Fritti, Pure Taqueria, The Albert, North Highland Pub (dinner for 2)

$25: Wisteria, Parish Food & Goods, Fritti, Park’s Edge, Rathbun’s, Sauced, Shaun’s, Zaya Mediterranean Cuisine

$35: Kevin Rathbun Steak, Sotto Sotto

I must admit: I am SHOCKED that I can even THINK about food after the amazing amount of homemade Pizza Rolls and Milk Duds I consumed at our friend Meredith’s fabulous Oscar party last night…

= LK on the red carpet

xx, L

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How to Gain 30 Lbs. in 3 Days

03/05/2010 in DC, Vacation, What we're Doing, Where we're Eating by Lindsay | 5 comments

Hang out with the Kastorfs.  It’s as simple as that…

the kastorfs

In an attempt to come to terms with my denial about their recent move from Atlanta, Slick + I visited Kurt + Anjali in the District over the weekend.  When we arrived on Friday evening, we had dinner with them and Slick’s twin brother, Smooth, who lives in the city + co. at Zaytinya. 

zaytinya

Zaytinya (http://www.zaytinya.com/) is a Mediterranean restaurant in Chinatown that is star chef Jose Andres’ culinary playground.  Andres is a James Beard Award winner, defeated Bobby Flay on Iron Chef America and appeared as a guest judge on Top Chef.  He is often credited for bringing the small plates concept to America.  Needless to say, I was very excited to eat at Zaytinya.  And, it was even better than expected – I strongly recommend this restaurant.

puffed pita bread @ zaytinya - i ate a TON

We had lunch the next day at Ben’s Chili Bowl (http://www.benschilibowl.com).  Ever since Obama dined there a few days before the Inaguration, I’ve been interested in trying the famous chili dogs at this historic restaurant. 

ben's chili bowl

slick @ ben's

slick @ ben's

We ate absolutely wondrous things – chili dogs, chili cheese fries, etc – and we didn’t think twice about it.   :)

chili cheese fries @ ben's

Ben’s Chili Bowl was amazing.  I love its U Street location – not too far away from one of my favorite places to eat at in DC – Marvin (Marvin Gaye’s restaurant). 

More on Marvin’s here: http://www.marvindc.com/.

kurt + slick eating ben's chili half-smokes

very full

Kurt + Anj + Slick cooked dinner on Saturday night.  Obviously, I’m big on going out for meals (research for the blog…), but the way these three cooked – I’d be happy eating at home from here on out! 

food network cameras really should have been there...

Everything was homemade from scratch.  So impressive!!

Caprese Salad garnished w/ Doritos (Slick’s touch):

genius?

Vermont Farmhouse Cheddar Cheese Straws:

my favorite part of the meal

Peach Gnocchi in a Champagne and Shallot Sauce:

heavenly

(Brace yourself for this one) Maple Mascarpone Cheesecake served with Pistachio Ice Cream, Cranberries stewed in Raspberry Ginger Beer, Orange Ginger Reduction, Maple Syrup and garnished with a Walnut Tuille:

masterpiece

I ate sooooooo much, I couldn’t breathe after the meal.  Seriously.  That didn’t stop me, though, from finishing about three bottles of wine w/ Anj over the course of the night…  :)

We ventured out to Co Co. Sala (http://www.cocosala.com/) for brunch on Sunday.  A colleague in DC sang praises about this restaurant after she went for dinner one evening – and ever since has been telling me that I absolutely have to go there when I’m in town. 

barely standing...but ready to eat!

The menu is based around chocolate and the food is creative, well-paired and incredibly artful.  Although we were all pretty hungover from the prior evening, we thought brunch was delicious and satisfying.  I loved the restaurant’s plush decor and appreciated how well thought out each knife, fork, dish and glass was – everything was very detailed. 

beautiful entree @ co co. sala

decadent desserts @ co co. sala

We schmoozed with Co Co. Sala’s general manager after our meal and he told us that the restaurant has a pretty lively dessert + drinks scene – very loungy with house music…  Personally, “house music” wasn’t the greatest selling point for me, but I would definitely go back to Co Co. Sala when I am in DC again to try more of their delicious desserts and see what the evening holds there.  We left the restaurant full + with a parting gift from the GM: CHOCOLATE COVERED BACON!

it wasn't around for long...

Matchbox Vintage Pizza Bistro (http://www.matchboxdc.com/) was the last restaurant I wanted to check off of my list this trip. 

get it? get it?!

Anj + Slick + I grabbed an early dinner there: the 3.6.9. mini-burgers w/ gouda + onion straws and one of their signature pizzas cooked in a wood-fired masonry oven.  Although I thought the pizza was fair at best, Matchbox’s onion straws were enough to bring me back to the Chinatown restaurant as soon as I am in DC again.  I honestly don’t have any other way to accurately describe them than they were just, well, AWESOME!

matchbox's 3.6.9. mini-burgers w/ onion straws

We ate a lot over the three day trip.  But, don’t worry about our health – we did some walking.  In fact, we spent Saturday @ the Department of Justice:

i found a familiar flag!

slick gave an important speech

We saw Julia Child’s Kitchen @ the National Museum of American History:

amen!

julia's copper pots

And, we viewed the Hope Diamond + the extensive Mineral Exhibit @ the National Museum of Natural History:

the hope diamond in all its glory

want. those.

Although the trip went by in a blur, I’ll be holding onto the memories we made (ate?) for the next few weeks in my waistline.  Oh well, I enjoyed every bite – and it’s not swimsuit season quite yet… 

miss you guys already!!

Thanks, Anj + Kurt for such a super fun + incredibly delicious trip!

xx, L

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Hush Puppies + Hand Dryers

03/02/2010 in Grant Park, Midtown, Where we're Eating by Lindsay | 7 comments

As previously mentioned in my Antico post, Mich + Justin were in town from NYC last week.  Since they hadn’t met Slick yet, we made plans to join them for dinner one evening.  They were staying in Grant Park, and so we thought it made sense to go some place local.  The first restaurant to pop into my mind was Six Feet Under. 

whoops!! - accidentally brought the remote to dinner in my purse. fact: i am the world's greatest roommate.

Which reminds me, I love Six Feet Under in Grant Park for exactly five reasons:

5 - Oyster Shooters
They have them and I think that’s awesome.  My favorite is the Six Feet Under: Absolut Peppar, Bloody Mary mix + Oyster, but the Bloody Bass-tard and the Oyster Kamikaze are really fun, too. 

Oyster Shooter

Check out a list of Six Feet’s Oyster Shooters here:
http://www.sixfeetunderatlanta.com/index.php?id=drinks

4 – The Best Hush Puppies in the History of the World. 
They are absolutely delish.  I like mine a bit underdone.  I’d eat hush puppies over french fries or onion rings any day – although I’d prefer not to have to choose.

Six Feet Under's shrimp + scallops in parchment + the remainder of my hush puppies

3 – Proximity to Oakland Cemetery
I love, love, love Oakland Cemetery – it’s easily one of my favorite attractions in Atlanta.  There are so many interesting, historic people like Margaret Mitchell, Bobby Jones + Maynard Jackson buried there.  I think it’s so fun to go on a walk through the garden cemetery on a pretty day and admire all the old crypts.  A few drinks at Six Feet Under afterwards makes for a really unique date*. 

*Attention Boys: This is not okay for a first date.  Repeat: Not okay for a first date + know your audience.

Oakland Cemetery

2 – The Staff
I have absolutely nothing profound to say here.  The service is good.  The staff kind of reminds me of a crew of shipmates.  I think that is cool and theme-appropriate for Six Feet.  That’s all.

what’s a pirate’s favorite letter??


1 – DYSON HAND DRYERS!!
Have y’all tried these yet?  Fact: Dyson Hand Dryers are the most powerful hand dryers in the whole wide world.  I’m a little obsessed with Dyson vacuum cleaners – so spotting these babies at Six Feet made my day!  (It doesn’t take much to excite me, obv.) 

Six Feet Under's Dyson hand dryers

I’m just saying…what else could you possibly ask for in a restaurant? 

Although the Grant Park location is my favorite, Six Feet is also located in West Midtown near the Atlanta Humane Society.  The West Midtown location has a great rooftop patio that I’ve really enjoyed in the summer for drinks. 

xx, L

Six Feet Under – Grant Park
437 Memorial Drive SE
Atlanta, GA  30312
404.523.6664
www.sixfeetunderatlanta.com

Six Feet Under on Urbanspoon

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Meet Tom Colicchio

02/27/2010 in Buckhead, Events!, Where we're Eating by Lindsay | No comments

Are you as starstruck by him as I am??

Tommy!!

If so, you may want to take advantage of this incredible opportunity at Craft Atlanta!

Craft Atlanta Wine Dinner with Chef Tom Colicchio

Following the success of its Fall Beer Dinner, Craft Atlanta will host a Wine Tasting Dinner on Monday, March 22 with a seasonal menu prepared by Chef and Owner Tom Colicchio paired with wines selected by Craft Atlanta General Manager and Beverage Director Leo Barrera and Winemaker Jesse Lange of Lange Estate Winery and Vineyards.

Beginning at 7:00 p.m., guests will be guided by Colicchio and Lange through this unique celebration of seasonal, spring ingredients and wines.  The five-course dinner will be served in Craft Atlanta’s upscale dining room and will be $155 per person, including tax and service charges.

To reserve a spot at this experience, please call 404.995.7580 or email Valeria Torres at VTorres@craftatlanta.com.

And, please send Mr. T my regards… :)

xx, L

Craft – Atlanta
3376 Peachtree Road NE
Atlanta, GA  30326
404.995.7580
www.craftrestaurant.com

Craft Atlanta on Urbanspoon

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Buckhead Restaurant Week: 03/06 – 03/14

02/24/2010 in Buckhead, Deals + Steals, Events!, Restaurant Weeks, Where we're Eating by Lauren | 1 comment

I am ALL ABOUT various neighborhood restaurant weeks. It’s a combination of my favorite things: restaurants, good deals, and hype.

That said, you should know that the inaugural Buckhead Restaurant week is right around the corner! 3 courses for $25? Yes, please!

Here are a few of my favorite participants:

Anis
Anis is such a perfect little date spot! It’s this amazing little French resto in a charming little house off Grandview. They have an outside patio (and allow pups!) as well as cozy inside seating. Love!

Aria
(Or Aria’s as my mom calls it.) If you have never been, you are seriously missing out. Aria is one of my favorite restaurants in the city – it’s romantic, the food is amazing, and it’s very glam in an understated sort of way.

Bistro Niko
You know a restaurant is cool when EZ elects to celebrate her birthday there!In the bottom of the Soverign building, this chic little French bistro is the newest addition to the Buckhead Life restaurant group. The bar area is especially cool.

Capital Grille
Two words: Stoli Doli. When l lived in the Eclipse (located just behind the restaurant) this was my go-to happy hour spot. It’s a higher-end steak joint, and everything on the menu is delish, but the lobster mac + cheese will change your life and the calamari is out of this world. Their signature cocktail is the “Stoli Doli” – a martini made with pineapple infused vodka. DELISH. Plus, it has the whole country club chic thing going on and I love that.

Kyma
Another Buckhead Life participant, and Lindsay’s favorite big fat Greek restaurant. Go get your taramasalata on, yo.

Nava
I celebrated a landmark birthday here and will always have a special place in my heart for blue cornbread, prickly pear margaritas, and lobster tacos…

Other participating restaurants are Aja (it’s pronounced like Asia, FYI, not Ah-zjh-ah- I asked!), Aqua Bistro, Atlanta Fish Market, Blue Pointe, Cantina (where Lola used to be), Craftbar, Gordon Biersch, Home, Market, Paces 88, The Palm, Pricci, Prime, Ruth’s Chris, Shula’s 347, and The Grape.

You can make reservations by calling the restaurants (duh) or on Opentable.com, a sponsor of the event.

Please note that alcohol and gratuity are not included in the $25.

Happy fine dining on a dime!

xx, L

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Eat Squad Log #3: Canton House

02/22/2010 in Buford Highway, Eat Squad, Where we're Eating by Lindsay | 2 comments

In an attempt to further explore Buford HWY and challenge our taste buds, the Eat Squad met at Canton House for dim sum* on Wednesday.  Canton House is not at all difficult to find.  If you are coming from our neck of the woods (Buckhead + Midtown), drive up Buford HWY until you see the largest chandlier known to man through the windows of a restaurant with Chinese characters on it.

*Note: Dim sum is commonly eaten on Sunday afternoons or during lunch, however, Canton House offers dim sum carts in the evening, as well.

Canton House - street view

underbelly of the massive Canton House chandelier

Once we found the restaurant and walked inside, we were immediately shown to our table.  Less than two minutes later, the servers began accosting us with stainless steel dim sum carts. 

dim sum cart - steamed dishes

dim sum cart - steamed dishes

dim sum cart - fried items

We tried almost everything on both carts – with the exception of tripe and chicken feet.  My personal favorite items were the shrimp dumplings and the pork sticky buns.  Unfortunately for me, though, Slick wasn’t sharing his sticky buns…

not sharing

Although the dim sum plates quickly filled me up, the boys were hungry for more.  We ordered a heaping plate of chicken fried rice, which I hadn’t eaten since I was 15 at the old Prestonwood Mall in Dallas, and pork chow fun, which I thought was way too oily – but still pretty tasty. 

Eat Squad

Eat Squad

We shared everything by way of the massive lazy susan on our table.  When we requested the bill, I tried to mentally tally what I thought the final price would be for the incredible amount of food we ate.  Much to our surprise, we all got out of there for roughly $12.50 per person!  We were absolutely shocked at how cheap everything was.  Dim sum @ Canton House is truly a cultured culinary experience that won’t put a dent in your wallet!  Just a little sum-thing to think about…  :)

roshal w/ the lucky buddha

On the way home, Slick and I ranked our Eat Squad expeditions so far on Buford Highway and dim sum held down my #1 spot, followed closely by our Bangladeshi dinner @ Panahar.  Slick’s favorite ES meal was Korean BBQ: Hanil Kwan was definitely a fun culinary experience, but I could take it or leave it. 

I’m really looking forward to our next stop on the road!  My vote is for Thai… 

xx, L

Canton House
4825 Buford HWY
Chamblee, GA  30341
770.936.9030

Canton House on Urbanspoon

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A Couplea Things

02/19/2010 in Events!, Midtown, PSAs, Random Musings, Where we're Eating by Lauren | 3 comments

Listen. It’s Friday. And while my body may be here at the office, my brain is already out for the weekend. The forecast is spectacular and I just want to leave you with a few notable things before I peace out of here in favor of finding a nice patio on which to drink cocktails:

1. Last night Doc Hollywood and I FINALLY saw the Da Vinci exhibit at the High. It’s closing weekend, and I am officially suggesting you rush over there to view it before it’s gone.

In the interest of full disclosure, the collection is small and the Good Doctor was expecting a bit more sculpture, but I was absolutely fascinated by the early drawings and sketches. Even the teeny tiny ones were drawn with such meticulous detail, it really was, well, genius. DH’s favorite was a spectacular silver piece but I suspect his real favorite part was his entertaining creative narration:

"I am telling you! The red M&Ms taste much better than the brown ones!"

We were only slightly more mature than my last visit to the High. If you haven’t seen this post, I am begging you to do so.

We finished our night at One Midtown Kitchen: mussels, duck, ravioli and a fantastic SUPER TUSCAN (which is so much cooler than meritage just by name alone, yeah?). Now that? Is a perfect LK kind of night.

2. I know I am always looking for creative excuses for my punctuality problem, but last night, I didn’t need to fabricate anything because 85 was a nightmare due to Zebra Traffic. That’s right: a ZEBRA on the loose in downtown Atlanta. A ZEBRA, y’all.
3. Slick informed Linds and me that that today is the anniversary of the first day Mr. Rogers was nationally televised.
As you know, it is also Slick’s birthday. That is a truly remarkable coincidence. Happy birthday, Slick!

4. LuckyFest is right around the corner. 03/13/10.

More details to come, but use promo code “kraselsky” (no caps) for 20% off your ticket. They are $10 right now, but you know the drill. They increase leading up to the event and will eventually be $30.

ShamROCK it out, yo.

5. Atlanta Magazine’s Best of Atlanta Party (Benefiting Camp Twin Lakes!) is MONDAY. Um, It’s only my 2nd favorite CTL event of the year! Lindsay, Christine, and I will be hostessing the VIP lounge from 7-8p, but before and after we will be swilling delicious wine and cocktails, checking out the silent auction, and sampling the tasty vittles offered by Holeman and Finch, Sublime Donuts, Craft + Craftbar, BLT Steak, and other fabulous restaurants (for a complete list of participating bars and restaurants click here.)

Atlanta Magazine’s Best of Atlanta Party
Monday, February 22
6:00 p.m. VIP/Early Admission
$125 per person online
7:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. General Admission
$60 per person online, $70 per person at the door

Click here for tickets.

OK! That’s about it. Happy Friday, everyone! I hope we all get out early!
xx, L

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FAT BBQ

02/19/2010 in Festivals, Midtown, What we're Listening To, What we're Watching, Where we're Eating by Lindsay | No comments

Slick got some good news over the weekend and a celebratory dinner was in order.  If I’d received news worthy of celebrating, I would make a b-line for Bacchanalia faster than you can say “American Kobe Short Ribs.”  However, Slick’s favorite food is BBQ – so we decided that Fat Matt’s Rib Shack would be a perfect spot to grub-it-up in his honor.

perfect-o

First, we went to Tara Cinema to see Crazy Heart.  We both thought the movie was amazing, and we’ve been listening to the incredible soundtrack + Ryan Bingham downloads almost non-stop since we saw it.  It’s sort of like The Wrestler, but about country music and with The Dude.  Awesome.  We really liked the movie’s message, too.  Everyone, please see it soon!

"it's funny how fallin' feels like flyin'...for a little while"

Back to BBQ:  Fat Matt’s is my personal favorite place to get BBQ in Atlanta.  It’s a relatively small restaurant with lots of character.  In fact, Fat Matt’s was mentioned in the movie, Up in the Air, as the main character’s favorite place to get BBQ because it happens to be the director, Jason Reitman’s, favorite BBQ joint.  In return, the restaurant gave Jason a V.I.P. card entitling him to a lifetime of free ribs!  So freaking cool. 

Moving on…

Fat Matt's

We get to the restaurant and grab some beers while we wait for another couple to meet us.  And who do we see chowing down on Fat Matt’s famous ribs??  None other than Serpas executive chef, Scott Serpas! 

Scott Serpas, Serpas True Food

(Who vaguely resembles my favorite Modern Family character, Cameron…  Love him!)

CAMERON!!

Obviously, we were in excellent company.  Our friends arrived shortly thereafter and we ordered. 

Fat Menu

Three of us selected the tasty pulled pork sandwiches on white buns – and Slick got the ribs.

Fat Kitchen

My pulled pork was predictably delicious, but I’d never had anything else at Fat Matt’s to compare it to.  Slick let me try one of his ribs – and it was heavenly.  I’m adverse to fat on BBQ, I’d almost rather it be tasteless than bite into fat on meat – the texture weirds me out.  Thankfully, I had no reservations about Fat Matt’s ribs, which were both pretty lean and flavorful.

Fat Ribs

Fat (but not fatty) Ribs

We inhaled our BBQ and washed it down with some Sweetwater beer, all while enjoying the live blues band.  Don’t forget to tip them!

Fat Music

Fat Music

It was a perfect celebratory dinner for Slick!  (He was in hog heaven… Get it?  Get it??)  And today, Slick has another reason to celebrate…HAPPY BIRTHDAY!! 

Jeff + Slick

More BBQ is on tap for tonight + Oysterfest @ Steamhouse Lounge tomorrow! 
Get your Oysterfest tickets here: http://www.ticketalternative.com/Venues/500.aspx

Fat Party

xx, L

Fat Matt’s Rib Shack
1811 Piedmont Ave. NE
Atlanta, GA  30324
404.607.1622
www.fatmattsribshack.com

Fat Matt's Rib Shack on Urbanspoon

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…and I don’t eat meat because I’m a veterinarian…

02/18/2010 in Cabbagetown, Where we're Eating by Lauren | 2 comments

So, I had been DYING to try Dynamic Dish since I heard about the all organic, all vegetarian restaurant and yesterday at lunch, Christine made my veggie dreams come true!

Though I consider myself a carnivore, truthfully, my diet is largely vegetarian. I’ll often opt for the meat-free option on the menu and my protein of choice is definitely fish. I love soy, I love vegetables, and I can be very, very weird about chicken.

Additionally, I spent two years of my life dating a strict vegetarian and I can tell you first-hand how difficult it is to find a satisfying, delicious vegetarian restaurant.

I kid, I kid!

So obviously I was amped about DD. Every time I turn around someone (vegetarian or otherwise) is talking about how amazing it is and I am here to tell you that it’s worth the hype.

The Q+DD on DD (wow.) can be summed up in their mission statement:

Our mission is to provide fresh, nutritious meals for the modern/urban lifestyle. We offer food made of natural and organic ingredients, obtained from local and multi-cultural, natural resources and create tasty, imaginative meals that have a positive result on the well being of all ages.
~ David Sweeney

It’s this teeny little restaurant off Edgewood, and very simple in it’s décor. Currently, the art on the wall is that of local artist Jeff Hyde:
The menu changes daily and consists of only handful of choices which they broadcast via Twitter. Yesterday, C got the crimini mushroom soup with croutons + chervil and the salad which was mixed Georgia greens with pear, red onion, radicchio, and spiced pumpkin seeds. Both were DELICIOUS. I opted for the smoked trout salad sandwich with avocado and cucumber on “forbidden rice loaf with a side of dandelion, apple + pumpkin seed salad. AMAZING. Our server educated us on “forbidden rice loaf,” even showed us a little piece of literature but since I left that there, I can’t remember a thing. What I can tell you is this: it was fabulous and hearty and its made by some kind of short grain rice at Georgia’s first certified organic bakery, Magnolia Bread Company.

We were feeling so virtuous about our choices that we decided to reward ourselves and split a lemon cupcake and an almond coconut cookie dipped in chocolate. YUM.

It should probably be noted that the hours are a little quirky:

Tuesday 11-3
Wednesday 11-3
Thursday 11-3, 6-10
Friday 11-3, 6-10
Saturday 11-3, 6-10
(saturday is organic pizza night!)
sunday + monday = closed

But the verdict? I loved Dynamic Dish. I can’t wait to go back. It’s so good that even the biggest carnivore would appreciate. Oh, and its BYOB! You know how I love that.

xx, L

P.S. Please do not be overly concerned about my iron intake. I rounded my day out with a cheeseburger and fresh garlic fries at Bocado that evening. More on that later…

Dynamic Dish
www.dynamicdish.net
427 Edgewood Avenue Southeast
Atlanta, GA 30312
(404) 688-4344
Dynamic Dish on Urbanspoon

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Incredibly Bold Statements

02/18/2010 in Midtown, PSAs, Random Musings, Suburbs, Where we're Eating by Lindsay | 9 comments

When it comes to pizza, I’m really not kidding around. 

this is my serious face

I’ve said it many times before, but I’ll say it again:  For the past five years, Shorty’s has been my favorite pizza place in Atlanta.  Nothing could hold a candle to it.  I’d happily eat there two – maybe three – (don’t judge me) times a week.  Happily.

Well, on the Fourth of July this year, I was sipping some Firefly and catching some rays beside the Post Chastain (Acapulco) pool with friends when dinner was mentioned.  I suggested Shorty’s, because “it is the best pizza in town.”  A friend’s fiance quickly chimed in that he considers himself to be a distinguished pizza connoisseur and that Vintage Pizzeria is, in fact, the best pizza in town.  Riiiiiiight. 

I wasn’t up for an argument in my tipsy + sunburned + America-loving state, but I doubted that he was anywhere remotely close to correct.  His bold statement did, however, spark my interest…

It’s taken us a while, but on Sunday, Slick + some friends and I finally tried Vintage Pizzeria.  (Afterwards, I made everyone see The Wolfman.  I’m still really sorry, guys…) 

Vintage Pizzeria

Here’s what I liked about Vintage:  I thought the pizzeria’s random location nearby the Chamblee MARTA station right off from Peachtree Industrial’s sprawling car dealerships was kind of cool.  I honestly didn’t know there was anything interesting in that area that would appeal to a demographic aside from sleazy car salesmen.  Vintage Pizzeria sits directly across the street from railroad tracks and an adorable little dessert trailer called the Frosty Caboose that serves ice cream and a few other sweet treats.

At Vintage, we ordered Carmen’s Own + the Hawaiian pizza* (my favorite) + some wine/ beer.  They pour well at Vintage – just FYI.  :)

Vintage Pizzeria

Vintage Pizzeria

*Note: Why is it that photos of pizza always look like the “what to watch out for” mole pictures at a dermatologists office?  Always – ick.

I have to say that I wasn’t incredibly impressed with Vintage’s decor or atmosphere, but the pizza was above average.  Definitely not the best in town, but possibly a nice alternative to Shorty’s.  I’ll give it that – although, I never thought I needed one.  That is…until I went to Antico Pizza Napoletana with close friends in from New York yesterday.  (I’m so sorry, Shorty’s…)

Antico Pizza Napoletana

Antico is, hands down, the best pizza I’ve ever had in my entire life.  (How’s that for a stand alone statement?!)

I’ve eaten pizza in Italy, New York, Chicago – everywhere that I would think is important, and frankly, Antico is it for me.  I am well-aware that I talk up a lot of restaurants on the blog, but Antico is different.  You have to try it immediately.  (No exclamation point is needed.  This is simply a statement of fact.)  For those who don’t live in Atlanta, come into town and visit me and I’ll take you.  Deal?  Done.

Antico is located in a nondescript space off of Hemphill and 14th, sandwiched between Georgia Tech’s campus and Atlantic Station.  When I walked in, I was greeted by an Italian employee and directed to the hanging menu above the register.  My friends and I decided to share a Margarita pizza with pepperoni*.  We ordered, grabbed some sodas and then seated ourselves at a communal table in the kitchen.  At first, I thought it might be strange to have overflow seating in the restaurant’s kitchen, but I LOVED it!  We got to watch the Antico employees (mostly Italians) kneading the dough, making the pizzas and throwing them into the brick ovens  – all while loud music was bumping throughout the kitchen’s speakers. 

Ovens @ Antico

Brick Ovens @ Antico

Our pizza was delivered to us on a cookie sheet and IT. WAS. AMAZING!  Truly amazing! 

Margarita Pizza @ Antico

The sauce and dough were particularly tasty, while at the same time not overpowering or too filling.  The cheese tasted incredibly fresh and the pepperoni was thinly sliced and crispy.  You just don’t get more authentic than this!  The only problem, though, was that we completely devoured it within minutes.  We immediately regretted not ordering more.  

*Note: A number of people were eating the Bianca pizza (w/ ricotta + buffalo mozzarella) and it looked awesome.

Antico is open Monday – Saturday from 11:30 a.m. – Until Out of Dough.  How cute is that??

I love Antico’s pizza!  I really do.  Shorty’s, sadly, is a thing of the past for me.  (Farewell, old friend.)  As far as I’m concerned, there is only one place worthy of eating pizza at in Atlanta now – and that is Antico Pizza Napoletana.  I’ll see you there very soon.

xx, L

Vintage Pizzeria
5434 Peachtree Road
Chamblee, GA  30341
678.646.0400
www.vintagepizzeria.com

Vintage Pizzeria on Urbanspoon

Antico Pizza Napoletana
1093 Hemphill Ave.
Atlanta, GA  30318
404.724.2333
www.anticopizza.it

Antico Pizza Napoletana on Urbanspoon

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Attention: Last Minute V-Day Plans

02/12/2010 in Holidays, Parties, What we're Doing, Where we're Eating, Where we're Shopping by Lindsay | 8 comments

If you are a frequent Q+DD reader, you’ll know that I love holidays – and pretty much any reason to celebrate.  I even like not-so-sexy holidays.  For instance, Passover got morphed last year into Lindsay + Lauren’s B.P.E. (Best Passover Ever).  It was 80’s-themed and all…

The B.P.E.

B.P.E.

the charoset was jussssst right...

the charoset was jussssst right

Valentine’s Day (candy + roses) definitely falls into my top five favorite holidays list, alongside St. Patty’s Day (green beer + socially-acceptable pinching), Halloween (costumes + candy…again), Thanksgiving (turduckens + football) and New Year’s Eve (champagne + overpriced parties). 

Happy V-Day!

Happy V-Day!

Sadly, I do encounter quite a few people who are not that “into” V-Day.  Some people just don’t have the spirit.  I hear them say, “why should I be forced to tell my (insert: girlfriend/ fiance/ partner/ wife) that I love them more on this day than any other - yadda yadda yadda?”  To which I simply respond, “because Hallmark tells you to!  Hello!”  Call me brainwashed – whatever – but I’m totally buying what Hallmark is selling.  I love everything about this holiday!  Chalky conversation hearts, under-clothed babies with bows + arrows, oversized V-day cards, pristine red+ pink roses…I love it all.

Which brings me to my point: no matter if you’re a V-day lover or hater, here are a few ideas for the weekend if you have not already made plans:

A Love Supreme:  Nothing says, “I love you,” like sushi, well, that’s our philosophy at least.  Head to Genki Noodles and Sushiin Buckhead or The Prado for a low-key, romantic Valentine’s Day dinner featuring a special “Cupid Roll” and “Love You Long Time” flirty cocktail.  Detailed info below. (http://www.genkiatl.com/)

Valentine’s Day is for Suckas:  Boycott this Hallmark holiday and reclaim romance for the real world at P’cheen International Bistro & Pub!  Saturday, February 13 infuse a little humor into your night…sip on “Cupid Got Shot(s)” while you bust out your best Molly Ringwald moves during the teary eyed dance party courtesy of DJ Feri.  Since the kitchen is open until 1:00 a.m., you might even find a date that you can spoon-feed the “Broken Heart” dinner specials to. (http://www.pcheen.com/)

Tainted Love:  Give love a chance during Gold Room’s retro throwback “Tainted Love” party on Saturday, February 13th.  Enjoy a night of dancing as DJ Andre Perry spins favorites from the 70s, 80s and 90s.  Try the “Roses are Red, Violets are Blue” and “Chocolate Covered Raspberries” specialty cocktails.  Single guys and gals can try to get lucky in love by picking up a red wrist band at the front door as their official “single signal” for the night.  (http://www.goldroomatl.com/)

Shop To Your Heart’s Content:  If you’re still searching for that perfect Valentine’s Day gift, Limon Verde offers beautiful hand-made unique and affordable gifts for that special someone.  To sweeten the deal, a portion of the proceeds will benefit the Red Cross.  And, the Shops Around Lenox have a bundle of sweet deals through Valentine’s Day. (http://www.limonverde.com/)
(http://www.octaneemail.com/shopsaroundlenox/020210/)

Valentine’s Day Supper Club:  Sun In My Bellyis hosting special Valentine’s Day dinners Saturday, February 13 and Sunday, February 14 at 7:30 p.m.  Both evenings will have one seating featuring a four-course meal created by executive chef Allison Lueker, complimentary specialty cocktails and live music by Nicole Chillemi.  In addition, each party will receive a signature floral bouquet from Foxgloves + Ivy Floral Design Studio to take home. $50.00 per person. (http://www.suninmybelly.com/)

A few other V-Day ideas can be found right there:  HERE.

GENKIVD

HAPPY VALENTINES DAY, EVERYONE!  And, stay warm – this is going to be a snowy one in Atlanta!  :)

xx, L

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Cocktail Experts.

02/09/2010 in Buckhead, Cocktails, Where we're Eating by Lauren | 4 comments

VIP: Lindsay and I were asked to be a part of a panel of cocktail experts (!!!) to evaluate the specialty cocktail menu for a new restaurant in Buckhead. I just knew the day would come when this particular skill set (which we have been diligently honing at various bars and restaurants for the last 10+ years!) would come in handy…lkcocktail

Varsity Team.

Varsity Team.

…and last night at Saskatoon was the night, my friends.

OK so the Q+DD on Saskatoon is this: It’s a wild game restaurant located in the Alexan on Pharr Road (in the space where ill-fated Spondivits and Harry Bisset’s once were…) Think hunter’s lodge: über masculine, warm and cozy. Soft jazz playing, fires roaring, lighting fixtures adorned with antlers, and deer heads on the wood paneled walls. The menu is chock full of wild boar, elk, ostrich and the like. I even tried my first fried alligator! (This thrilled Lindsay: “I’m so glad we can be a part of this!”)

And hey, we like antlers!

laurenantlerslindsay antlers

Anyway, our table consisted of the two of us, our +1s (Linds brought Steph Cheeseman and I had Doc Hollywood in tow) and our new best friend Alison Abby, a fabulous freelance writer whom we met last night.

They brought us several appetizers to sample, and I have to say – we all really enjoyed the food we tried. Of course, wild game was the main protein in each dish, and they were all very creative as well as delicious!

The real purpose of our visit last night was to provide feedback on their cocktail menu. We tasted everything from the Saskatoon Sling (a variation of the Singapore Sling) to the Espresso Martini (cinnamon-y and not too dessert-y! Our favorite by far.) For the most part, we all thought the specialty cocktails were a little sweet (and perhaps tropical?) for our taste BUT we were there to help them tweak, and I’m sure they will. (Also, in the interest of full disclosure, Lindsay and I are pretty straightforward in our cocktail preferences. Any more than 2 ingredients and we’re raising an eyebrow and I have never seen the Doc drink anything but scotch. Ever.) So if you’re a specialty cocktail type of person, you may totally disagree with our evaluation. IJS.

Additionally, the GM seems pretty passionate about having an impressive, yet affordable wine list and the wait staff was just lovely…and happy to pour me a vodka on the rocks after all was said and done. (With 3 nice, big, fat queen-sized olives. DK always told me you can judge a bar by the size of their olives...)

My verdict on Saskatoon is this: I think it’s a pretty interesting addition to Buckhead’s restaurant scene and if you enjoy that type of atmosphere, (or if you’re in the mood to envision yourself as a ski bunny taking a break from the slopes!) I would encourage you to try it for yourself.

Bonus: FYI, Saskatoon is a city located in central Saskatchewan, Canada and I find Saskatchewan really, REALLY fun to say.

Saskatchewan. Saskatchewan…Saskatchewan…

xx, L

PS. Thanks for the folks at Melissa Libby for the invite!

Saskatoon
(404) 891-1911
360 Pharr Road
Atlanta, GA 30305

Saskatoon on Urbanspoon

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