July 2002 - December 2002

 

Dining Page

•Barello's Trattoria
•Bombazo
•Brio Tuscan Grille
•Cafe Jalapenos
•Chianti Village Cafe
•Coquette's
•East Andrews Cafe
•Emeril's
•Fire of Brazil
•Green Papaya Vietnamese Bistro
•Ichiban Steak & Sushi
•Inman Park Patio
•Iris Bistro
•Little Azio
•Magic Finger Sushi
•Meehan's Ale House
•McCormick & Schmick's
•Murphy's Restaurant
•One.Midtown Kitchen
•Pacific & Vine
•Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen
•Sala, Sabor De Mexico
•Sam's Place
•Santino's di Roma
•Sorelle di Napoli
•Twist 
 

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DINING OUT UPDATE • DECEMBER 2002

Seafoood eatery opens downtown

McCormick & Schmick's... Atlanta location #2 opens at CNN Center
Sam's Place... Steak, seafood and sushi in Duluth
Inman Park Patio... Casual, hip neighborhood gathering spot
Santino's... Italian to arrive in Midtown February 2003
Coquette's... A fine dining steakhouse bound for Alpharetta
Dining Notes... Tidbits on Atlanta's dining community

by toni m. lublin

McCormick & Schmick's second Atlanta location opened downtown to a full house and plenty to taste on November 18. Located at the CNN Center and down the street from Philips Arena, the location is ideal for having lunch or dinner. Parking is free and convenient.

The privately owned seafood restaurant, McCormick & Schmick's, has been serving seafood since 1972. Today, this Northwest-based seafood establishment has 37 units all across America. The first Atlanta location is in the Perimeter Mall corridor.

Offering up to 40 varieties of fish at any given time from around the world, McCormick & Schmick's has fish flown in daily. The large, tabloid-sized menu is printed twice daily for lunch and dinner. Nine varieties of oysters on-the-half-shell ($4.25 - $6.70) from as far as Sunset Beach British Columbia to seared rare Ahi (which was excellent) with Wasabi, soy and ginger, are just two of fourteen choices of seafood appetizers. "The value, service and fine dining experience we offer cannot be matched," says Christopher J. Karas, general manager. Lunch entrees range from $6 - 10 and dinner entree range from $15 - $20. Seafood Specialties change daily, but certain fresh fish are always available. Some unusual varieties include Artic Char from Bristol Bay, Alaska; Tombo Tuna from Hilo Hawaii and Tilapia from Quepos, Costa Rica.

A happy hour menu at $1.95 includes choices of cheddar cheeseburger, oyster shooters, Ahi tuna wontons, spicy catfish nuggets, buffalo chicken wings and Cajun crab fritters. This menu is served at the bar and cocktail area from 3:30 to 6:30 on weekdays and from 9:30 to midnight weekends.

The color scheme of forest green is carried throughout on the walls, carpet and plush leather green banquets. With three separate dining areas and a large bar area, there are plenty of choices to sit in this cozy restaurant. Large stain glass chandeliers add a spectrum of color while the walls are covered with authentic seafaring memorabilia.

The downtown location is at 190 Marietta Street. The phone number is 404.521.1236. The second Atlanta location in Dunwoody's phone number is 770.399.9900. The hours of operations are Monday - Friday: lunch is served from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Dinner is served from 4 p.m. to 11 p.m. Monday - Thursday and until 12 p.m. Friday and Saturday. The bar is open until 1 p.m. on Friday and Saturday evenings.

Sam's Place is open

Christine and Sam Jimenez, partners in life and business, wanted to expand beyond their three successful Mexican Restaurants called Dos Copas. They opted for a steak, seafood and sushi concept that they called Sam's Place and opened on October 17th. "We wanted to offer a casual, fine dining restaurant which catered to the neighborhood surroundings," says Christine Jimenez.

The Jimenez's opened their first restaurant 12 years ago on Medlock Bridge and expanded to Alpharetta and Hamilton Mill over the years. Their Texas roots and awareness of the void in the marketplace for an authentic Mexican restaurant, made their business timing ideal.

At Sam's Place Christine handles the business side of the restaurant and Sam is the front and back end of the establishment. Christine's sister, Janie Doerr also works the front of the house.

The couple's goal is to bring the same quality of service, food and atmosphere which has made them so successful with Dos Copas to Sam's Place. "We want our customer's to feel that Sam's place offers a personal touch and that we cater to our customers wants and needs. Our other restaurants have been successful because we are personable and we have a large number of repeat customers," says Jimenez.

The extensive menu and wine list include sushi, steak and seafood selections. Sushi platters, such as a 16 piece sashimi, 10 piece nigiri and 1 crunchy roll for $38 (range $20 - $38), nigiri (2 pieces per order from $3.50 to $6) and makimono rolls ($4.95 to $11.95), are all part of the menu. The steak and seafood selection is also large, including Chilean sea bass, red snapper, fried lobster tails, seafood pasta and 22 oz. prime bone-in rib eye served with grilled vegetables and roasted tomato for $32. Entrees range from $18 to $39 for a 24 oz. dry-aged New York Porterhouse served with sweet potato puree and roasted onion.

The interior of the restaurant has diffused lighting and lots of woodwork with white linen tables and a large bar area that seats 20 at the bar and 62 seated. The ceiling was raised in the bar area and framed in wood during the renovation stage. Burgundy and Goldenrod colors provide an upscale, yet casual environment.

"Sam has the touch and is a visionary, not to mention a great cook (he no longer does the cooking, but gives a lot of direction)," says Doerr of her bother-in-law. Doerr was not surprised when the couple decided to open Sam's Place. "Sam knows what he likes and what his customers want. Customers have constantly approached him to open a new place," says Doerr.

On Tuesday through Thursday, as well as Saturday, piano entertainment complements the dining experience. The restaurant seats 176 patrons. According to Doerr, things get pretty lively on Thursday nights as the piano serenade turns from classics to 80s and 90s nostalgia.

Sam's Place is located at 10305 Medlock Bridge Road in Duluth in the former Hal's location. The phone number is 678.417.9690. Kitchen hours of are from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. on Monday and Tuesday through Saturday from 5 p.m. to 1 p.m.

Inman Park's newest

The recently opened Inman Park Patio is a casual, yet hip gathering spot for the neighborhood crowd and beyond, to come and enjoy an extensive wine list along with American cuisine with an Italian twist.

Owned by friends and partners, Jeff Ingram and Rusty Umphenour, the idea they envisioned was an eatery that offered exceptional selections of wines served by a knowledgeable staff and which would extend their great appreciation for wine and the love of laughter. The result, a wine list of 60 selected wines, each available by the glass. In addition, weekly wine tasting and wine workshops are part of the scene, in an effort to help their patrons who are interested in learning more about the grape and its many varieties.

The neighborhood spot is designed to be relaxing and fun. Whether sitting on the European inspired patio with its enclosed sides and open stargazing top, or inside where exposed brick walls covered in a hand-painted leaf motif creates the backdrop for the custom-made dark hardwood tables. The mood is relaxing and comfortable. Local artists' works are also featured, beginning with Laura Bowman and Michelle Lapid and will change regularly.

In the bar area an extensive collection of 242 bottles of wine are housed in a custom-made space on the back wall. From the menu large portions of pasta, seafood, lamb, steaks and pizzas, are mainstays. Old Patio favorites such as the portabella mushroom merlot and black olive pesto are featured as well.

With good food, wine, atmosphere and laughter, the partners feel they will become a haven for the Inman Park neighborhood. "Our most prized contribution to the community is a commitment to good spirits, laughter and a fun dining experience," says Umphenour

The Inman Park Patio is available for private parties and holiday functions. It is located at 1029 Edgewood Avenue. Hours of operation are Monday through Saturday from 5 p.m. to 11 p.m. and on Sunday brunch is offered from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. Walk-ins are welcome. For more information you can visit www.inmanparkpatio.com

Santino's in works

The owners of Leopard Lounge (which opened five years ago), Cherry (two-years-old) and the recently opened Twisted Taco, have one more establishment ready to roll out in Midtown in early February 2003. This one will be called Santino's, which means "little saints."

The partners of Santino's are Paul Gibbs, Ray Sieradzki, Sergio Leguizamon, Dee Grimes and Tom Nahas. The concept will be a traditional family-style Italian restaurant. "With each of our restaurants we have carved out a niche, from Cherry which is our jewel in midtown to Twisted Taco, which is a great place to eat various types of burritos and tacos in addition to having a great bar, and Leopard lounge, which has been a great happening place in midtown," says Dee Grimes.

The Santino's style will be large entree portions to serve two to three people, value priced between $12 - $14 per entree. The interior will reflect old-world Italian style with checkered table cloths, black and white photos of Italy, wood paneling along with good food and drink.

Entree items will include oversized portions of homemade Italian favorites such as penne bolognese, fettuccini carbonara with chicken, vitello marsala and pollo alla parmigiana scaloppini. The floor plan will include two full bars and two levels of main dining area, which will include a patio on the second level. The seating will accommodate up to 200 patrons. Santino's will be located at 10th and Myrtle.

Coquette's planned

Alpharetta has been a main focus of restaurant developers over the past two years. Most new owners mention the reason for going north is because of the areas great source of clientele, families and disposable income and a market, which has not reached its saturation point.

On the heels of that trend, comes a new fine dining steakhouse, called Coquette's Fine steakhouse, which will open in late December. Robert L. Washington, who recently retired from UPS, owns the 8,000 square foot restaurant.

The interior of the restaurant will use a lot of cherry and mahogany wood along with leather to create a sophisticated, yet comfortable dining environment. The restaurant will also have two double-sided fireplaces, hardwood floors and a warm and cozy color story of oxblood red and burgundy. Sharon White, general manager of the restaurant says, "The new construction will be beautiful inside when it is complete. We will have a open kitchen and glass display to the grill so patrons can sit close to the action and watch their food being prepared."

Entrees will range from $12 - $20 for lunch and $18 - $35 for dinner. The choices will feature USDA prime and certified Angus beef. Features will include 8 oz. grilled Filet mignon, New York strip in 10 and 14 oz. sizes, 16 oz. Kansas steak, 22 oz. porterhouse steak and baby back ribs along with fresh seafood.

Coquette's Fine Steak-house will be located at 4120 Old Milton Highway. The hours of operation will be from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. for lunch and from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. for dinner Monday - Sunday.

Tidbits...

Tom Catherall and Here To Serve Restaurants are doing it again; Twist, an exciting new Here to Serve Restaurant concept, is coming to Phipps Plaza. Twist will have a huge bar area, a satay station, a tapas menu and pristine sushi and seafood. The dining room at Twist is 300 seats as well as a 75-seat patio. Twist will host fun happy hours daily and will be open late with live music and great food. Look for Twist to open January 2003... Chef Paul Albrecht has been a fixture on the Atlanta restaurant scene for over two decades. His culinary contributions to Atlanta include the foundation of the Buckhead Life Restaurant Group and the renowned Pano's and Paul's restaurant. His recent installation as executive chef and managing partner at Spice means the precedent he has set for fine dining in Atlanta is sure to continue at this popular midtown establishment. Chef Albrecht's culinary talents have garnered him numerous awards and accolades. In 1989 his peers named him Atlanta Chef of the Year. He also was named one of the four "Master Chefs of America" by California Gourmet, was Atlanta's selected chef in the national SOS Home Cookbook, and was chosen to represent the southeast at the American Institute of Food and Wine National Conference in Chicago.

DINING OUT UPDATE • NOVEMBER 2002

Brazilian steak house to arrive at Perimeter

Fire of Brazil... Newest venture from Kazoos, Checkered Parrot group
Ichiban Steak & Sushi... Hibachi-style dining in Alpharetta
Iris Bistro... Opens offering French, Spanish and Italian dishes in East Atlanta
Pacific & Vine... California lifestyle and food in Marietta's East Cobb
Sala, Sabor De Mexico... Latest concept from Fifth Group Restaurants in Va. Highland
Dining Out notes.....Tidbits on Atlanta's dining community

by toni m. lublin

A new Brazilian steak house called Fire of Brazil will open in early November in the Perimeter area in what was formerly the Canyon Cafe. The owners, a family team of four, which include Brent Gilbertson, R. J. Gilbertson, Terry Gilbertson and Wilma Gibertson, are seasoned kinfolk of restaurateurs. The father and mother, Wilma and R. J. Gilbertson have 40 years of experience running and owning restaurants, while the sons, Terry and Brent grew up in the business. Each take a part in the front and back-end of the house.

"Our concept is simple. A one-price menu entitles our guests to select from fifteen types of meats. A gaucho comes around with a sword of meat and you eat until you are satisfied," says son, Brent Gilbertson. Meats and poultry include sausage, chicken breast, drumsticks, pork ribs, pork loin, leg of lamb, rump steak, filet mignon, top sirloin, bottom sirloin, beef ribs and ham. The restaurant also has a large salad bar which is offered with the meal. At the time of press, the one tier price for lunch and dinner was not available.

The decor inside Fire of Brazil is executed in natural woods, which impart a southwestern, Brazilian flair. The 6,000 square foot space can accommodate up to 200 guests. A private room which seats 30 is ideal for business luncheons and private parties and is equipped to accommodate video presentations. A large wine list, offering up to 50 varieties from around the world and full bar service, are available.

Fire of Brazil is located at 118 Perimeter Center West. The telephone number is 770.551.4367. The hours of operation are from 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. for lunch and from 4:30 to 11 p.m. for dinner, Monday - Sunday.

Steak & Sushi opens

Dining Hibachi-style is an experience that is guaranteed to entertain every age group. At the recently opened Ichiban Steak & Sushi restaurant, the performance of the friendly red-hat chefs and the final hot steaming entrees, live up to one's expectations.

Ichiban Steak & Sushi opened in early October in Alpharetta. The restaurant is brand new with a contemporary open interior of exposed ceiling, concrete floors that are hand painted in areas, oversized raffia roman shades and textured beige walls.

Twelve burners within the 4,700 square foot restaurant are built around a very large sushi bar, which offers seating for twenty. Each Hibachi station can seat up to eighteen people around two burners per station.

The owners of Ichiban, Mali and George Muh, formally owned four-year-old Fuji in Alpharetta. Fuji was sold to open Ichiban. "This is a much better location and opportunity. We wanted to create a modern interior environment which was different from the other Japanese restaurants, which typically all look the same," said Mali Muh.

Hibachi Dinners are served with chicken soup, salad, shrimp appetizer, vegetables and steamed rice. The hibachi shrimp is very flavorful and offered in generous portions with hibachi-style vegetables. Other entrees include hibachi vegetables, salmon, chicken, New York steak and filet mignon. These aforementioned entrees range from $12.95 to $18.95. Ichiban's Best, range from $24.95 to $26.95 and include Filet Mignon, shrimp and lobster and shrimp & scallop. A children's hibachi menu is also available and ranges from $7.25 to $10.95 for the same selections as the adults.

At the sushi bar you can dine on raw and cooked sushi, sashimi and makimono rolls which are beautifully presented. Hibachi dinners can also be prepared for you. The makimono rolls include crunch, philly, 911, rainbow, dynamite and rock's roll. Ten roll varieties are offered. Also, a happy hour, Monday - Thursday offers .99¢ sushi and buy-one-beer and get-the-second-for-free specials.

Ichiban Steak & Sushi is located at 5306 Windward Parkway. The telephone number is 770.772.6822. Delivery is available within a five-mile radius. Hours of operation are from 11:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m., Monday - Friday for lunch. Dinner hours are Sunday - Thursday, from 5 p.m.-10 p.m. and Friday and Saturday from 5 p.m.-11 p.m. You can visit them at www.ichibanatlanta.com.

Iris blooms

Iris is a new modern bistro, which opened October 30, serving an eclectic mix of French, Italian and Spanish dishes. The menu takes it inspiration from the backgrounds of the chefs Nicolas Bour the executive chef, who is French, and sous chef Lien Schoe, who is Dutch. Both have extensive experience at four-star hotels around the world. The owner of Iris, Alan Raines also has a corporate executive background working for the Hyatt Regency, as well as working in the business since he was 16 years of age.

Together the trio are bringing to the East Atlanta Village area, a choice in dining which Raines feels is missing from the community. "Instead of dealing with parking in midtown, the local community can walk to the bistro or park in any of the free 34 parking spots. We wanted to offer a place, which is family oriented and nice, while still having a contemporary atmosphere to enjoy good food and service," says Raines.

Fresh made soups, sandwiches, pasta, New York Strip, Beef Tenderloin, lobster and duck are just a few of the menu selections. The dinner menu price ranges from $9.50 to $17. There are eight beers on tap and an extensive wine list. Raines mentions, "We want to be a restaurant with a bar, not a bar with a restaurant."

The interior of the bistro has a "toned-down industrial" feel. Formally, the location was a two-bay garage which was gutted and expanded. Colors used in the interior design include aubergine, charcoal, taupe, gunmetal and copper, which give the interior a sophisticated, yet cozy feel. Wall art showcases local artists. Two dining rooms and outside seating, which has a lovely landscaped garden, is available. The main dining area seats 86 and the outside area seats 45.

Iris is located at 1314 Glenwood Avenue in East Atlanta Village. The phone number is 404.221.1300. Hours of operation are Tuesday - Saturday from 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. On Saturday hours are from 11:30 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. and on Sunday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. A bar menu is open until closing. You can visit Iris at www.irisatlanta.com.

Pacific & Vine

Pacific & Vine reflects the California lifestyle and food, all under one roof. Formally, the Cino Grille, the concept and name change to Pacific & Vine was made on August 20. The owner, Tim Ruys decided to tap into his native Napa Valley roots and offers a variety of seafood, beef and spidedini skewers.

The atmosphere at Pacific and Vine according to general manager Joe Carter is casual and layed back. "Since changing our name and menu, our business is up 30 percent," says Carter.

Ruys wanted to bring a flavor to the interior which would reflect the Napa Valley Wine Country. White tablecloths and the use of blown glass set the stage for the upscale surroundings. A few contemporary touches, such as the concrete bar with ironwork, are focal points to the interior. The restaurant seats up to 250 patrons. A private room accommodates up to 50.

Entertainment includes live Jazz every Friday and Saturday night, with up to eight bands rotating from week to week. The entertainment starts at 7 p.m. and ends at 11 p.m.

In addition to the daily special catch-of-the-day, other seafood selections include King crab, seared tuna, crab cakes, salmon, jumbo shrimp and baked swordfish served 'Sicilian-style' with tomatoes, eggplant and fennel. Fresh Seafood dishes range from $15 - $24.

Pacific & Vine specializes in spiedini skewers which can be ordered in sets of three or four and range from $14 and $17 accordingly. Selections include Grilled chicken with a peanut satay sauce, grilled shrimp with chile lime jam and filet mignon with tarragon mustard.

Pacific & Vine is located at 4475 Roswell Road in Marietta. The phone number is 770.509.5522. Hours of operation are from 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday through Thursday. Friday and Saturday hours are from 11:30 to 10:30 p.m. and on Sunday from 11:30 to 9 p.m.

Sala arrives

With three successful restaurants (South City Kitchen, The Food Studio and La Tavola Trattoria) under their belt, the privately held Fifth Group Restaurants has recently embarked on opening their fourth dining venture called Sala, Sabor De Mexico. Sala specializes in authentic Mexican specialties and traditional favorites.

Sala is located in the space formally occupied by Camille's, an Italian restaurant that was a Virginia-Highland landmark. The space was gutted and revamped by Niles Bolton Associates. The interior has a sleek, yet inviting design with soft colors, natural and high tech materials.

The focal point remains on the food preparation and presentation, which is being executed by executive chef, Nestor Gomez, a Johnson & Wales University graduate. "What we are doing is essentially preparing peasant food that is incredibly tasty, yet earthy and fresh," says Gomez.

Sala plans on serving a range of red and black mole dishes among many other Mexican specialties. Mole dishes can sometimes be very time consuming to prepare, "It can sometimes take up to 360 individual chile peppers to prepare one dish," says Gomez. Mole dishes include cerdo enmolado, a grilled mole negro-rubbed pork loin topped with queso anejo with white rice, grilled onions and plantains for $14.95. Or pollo (Chicken) en mole de pepitas in a mole verde with yucca and refried black beans for $11.95. Also, traditional favorites from tacos to picadillo Mexicano, ground beef with nuts and spices with white rice and plantains, are sure to become popular selections.

The neighborhood restaurant has been designed so that customers will enjoy their dining experience in a relaxed atmosphere with fresh entrees. Appetizers range from $4 - $9 and entrees are from $10 - $17. "People are in for a nice surprise when they come to Sala. The prices are reasonable and everything is made from scratch, nothing is from a can," says Gomez.

Sala is located at 1186 North Highland Avenue NE. The phone number is 404.872.7203. Hours of operation are Monday through Thursday from 5:30 p.m. to 11 p.m. and Friday & Saturday from 5:30 p.m. to 12 a.m. Sundays are from 5:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. Reservations are suggested by calling the main number or visiting www.opentable.com.

Where is he today?

What do all of these have in common?

Aunt Charley's, Atkins Park, Knickerbockers, Groundhog Tavern, Cha Cha Charley's, Mike 'n Angelo's and Phoenix Brewing Company.

Well, if you said Warren Bruno, you're right. After nearly 39 years in the entertainment and food service business in Atlanta, Bruno decided to turn his knowledge of the Atlanta business community into helping others in acquiring commercial real estate suitable for their new business ideas.

Bruno has an eye for a good location and is uniquely equipped to spot new trends which might be less apparent to someone without his knowledge of the Atlanta community. He has years of experience in lease negotiations, property improvement and has connections within the community to facilitate acquisition and spot possible zoning and operating problems. His years of working with local governments, especially in the areas of licensing, zoning, and safety, also serves his clients well.

In addition to his many venues throughout the years, Warren also has an extensive career in community service. He's acted as Founder/Director of the Virginia Highland Summerfest, Director of the Buckhead St. Patrick's Celebration and Parade and Director of the U. S. National Hot Air Balloon Team Championships.

So it's no wonder Warren now spends his days at Vantosh-Gordon Real Estate on Spring Street in Atlanta. He is a licensed Real Estate Agent in Georgia and a graduate of Bryant College in Smithfield, Rhode Island with a Bachelor in Business Administration.

DINING OUT UPDATE • OCTOBER 2002

Catherall to add a 'Twist' to Buckhead

Twist... Newest Catherall venture to open at Phipps Plaza
Bombazo... The 'Bomb' to open in Midtown
Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen... Third location opens in Alpharetta
McCormick & Schmick's... No. 2due to open in CNN Center
Twisted Taco... Latest from the Leopard Lounge, Cherry guys
Dining Out notes.....Tidbits on Atlanta's dining community

by toni m. lublin

Tom Catherall, creator and owner of Prime, Noche and Goldfish, which are part of the Here to Serve Restaurant group, will be opening yet another 'original' restaurant. This one called Twist, will open in the upscale digs of Phipps Plaza in mid-October. "We have called the restaurant Twist, because of the variety of foods offered. Rolling carts of dim sum, sa-tay combinations, and New American cuisine are just a few of the menu items," says Catherall.

Chef Peter Kaiser, currently at Goldfish, will be the executive chef at Twist. Catherall has hired Chef Paul Albreicht to become executive chef at Goldfish. Albreicht, who left Atlanta four years ago to start his own restaurant on the shores of South Carolina, was previously the executive chef at Pano's & Paul's for 25 years.

A variety of small plates will be an important feature on the menu, ranging from $3 - $4.95. "In today's economy this type of menu selection makes sense. People still want to go out and get value, variety and a good, quality meal for their dollars," says Catherall.

The restaurant will also offer sushi bar small plates, rolls for $3 to $5, brick oven pizza for $12 to lobster pot pie for $19.95. Grilled meats and hickory-roasted fish are also planned for the menu. The emphasis will be on simple preparation and light dishes.

"During the day we expect to attract the shoppers and business lunches and at night we will draw a younger crowd," says Catherall.

Special $5 martini's "all the time" and live music seven nights of the week will keep the place jumping.

The location of Twist will be at Phipps Plaza, 3500 Peachtree Road, NE. The phone number is 404.869.1191. For more information you can also visit www.heretoserverestaurants.com

Bombazo planned

The name Bombazo is fun to say and is the appropriate name for a new 3,000 square-foot, two-story Mexican Antojitos (tapas) bar opening in midtown this November.

Bombazo (meaning loosely "the bomb" in Spanish) is the creation of Lucero Martinez-Oregon who recently opened two Orange & Scarlett's eateries, which serve homemade ice cream and breakfast treats in midtown.

This hip, fun, new tapas bar will offer what Martinez-Oregon refers to as "a blend of South American, Mexican and Argentinean tapas selections." The food is very energetic and the atmosphere is planned to be very upbeat as well. "The interior is very eclectic and simple. I have used recycled doors and 2x4 deck planking throughout the space," says Martinez-Oregon.

The food will be very colorful with each dish large enough to share between four people. "It is fun for people to interact and try different dishes and this is part of why I chose to do a tapas bar," says Martinez-Oregon.

Prior to opening Orange & Scarlett's in 2002, Martinez-Oregon owned and operated Zocalo and Oh... Maria! with her brothers.

Bambazo will offer small plates from $3.99 to $8.99. Lunch hours will feature some fixed combos for the time-sensitive patrons. The restaurant seats 60 people inside the basement lounge, called 'Corazon Aridient' (meaning 'fiery heart') and seats 70 people on an open-air deck on the top floor.

Bombazo is located at 818 Juniper Street. Hours of operation will be from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday for lunch and from 5:30 p.m. to 11:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday. During the week dinner hours are 5:30 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday. The lounge area will be open from 7 p.m. to 3 a.m. Monday through Saturday.

Pappadeaux #3

Pappadeaux (pronounced pa-pa-doe) is a second-generation Greek family-owned chain of 26 Cajun and Creole-style seafood restaurants. They are located mostly in the southeast, with a few locations in the Midwest and west. Pappeadaux recently opened its third Georgia location, the latest one in Alpharetta. The two other Georgia locations are in Norcross and Marietta.

Pappeadaux first opened in 1986 in Houston, Texas. Since then, the family has open another chain called Pappasito's, which is a Tex-Mex concept with 17 restaurants in the same regional areas as Pappeadaux. One unit is located in Marietta.

The interior of Pappeadaux's looks reminiscent of a fishing cabin, but the Alpharetta location has some upscale details such as the use of mahogany wood accents, a baby grand piano, leather couches and a big screen TV in the lounge.

According to the general manager at the Alpharetta location, David Young, "People come back to Pappeadaux's because we serve large portions of fresh seafood at value prices." Currently, if you are a lobster lover, there is an "all-you-can-eat" lobster special for $29.95 on Wednesday nights, through November 1st. Other choices include boiled crawfish, seafood gumbo to shrimp Creole and crawfish Etouffee. Fresh fish is prepared mesquite-grilled, charbroiled or blackened. Salmon, Catfish and Shrimp brochette are a few of the many selections, served in hefty portions at reasonable prices.

The 350 seating capacity and family-friendly atmosphere draws a crowd. "The attention to quality, detail of service and the people who work at Pappeadaux's create the excellent dining experience," says Young.

Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen is located at 10795 Davis Drive, across from Home Depot Expo, off of Mansell Road, West of 400. Hours of operation are Tuesday - Thursday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. for lunch, Monday - Thursday, 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. for dinner and Friday - Sunday 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. The phone number is 770.992.5566. Weekday reservations are available and call-ahead seating is available on the weekend. For more information you can visit www.pappadeaux.com

McCormick & Schmick's #2

The privately owned seafood restaurant, McCormick & Schmick's, has been serving seafood since 1972. Today, this Northwest-based seafood establishment has 37 units all across America.

A second Georgia location is opening in the CNN Center downtown on November 18. The restaurant chain also operates under the name Jake's Grill and Jake's Famous Crawfish, as well as four other various names, which incorporate McCormick, Schmick's and Jake's name.

Offering up to 40 varieties of fish at any given time from around the world, McCormick & Schmick's has fish flown in daily. Unusual varieties include Hawaiian species but most popular are grouper and snapper, offered all year round. Menus are printed daily, featuring the catch of the day.

Each restaurant location has the choice to offer regional favorite dishes. The Atlanta location has regional specials such as pecan-crusted catfish and fried green tomatoes. Up to 110 freshly prepared items are offered which go beyond seafood and include poultry, pastas, salads and meat.

The restaurants uses traditional decor with dark paneled wood walls and club-like high back chairs, creating a cozy, fine dining setting.

The downtown location will be at 190 Marietta Street. The phone number is 404.521.1236. The second Atlanta location is in Dunwoody and the phone number is 770.399.9900. You can visit www.mccormickandschmicks.com for more information.

Twisted Taco opens

From the creators of Cherry restaurant and bar, and the Leopard Lounge comes the concept of Twisted Taco, an upbeat bar and restaurant which serves Tex-Mex with a twist. The downtown location opened at the end of August.

According to Tom Nahas, a partner and creator of Twisted Taco, the restaurant is geared towards a causal atmosphere set in a rustic saloon-like environment. The developers chose an old turn-of-the century house which was modified to accommodate the venture.

The restaurant has three levels and vaulted 18-foot ceilings on the third floor. Seating inside accommodates 80 to 90. Another feature of the saloon is the outdoor seating space. The front patio has seating for 20 and on the upper third level there is seating for 20. The back of the saloon has two decks which overlook the downtown skyline and seats 20 patrons.

The eclectic decor includes gamed animal heads to decorate the walls and a hardwood dark walnut bar with authentic cowhide bar stools. Nahas contributed 18 original western movie bills, which are framed and used as wall art.

Finding Twisted Taco is no problem either, just look for a weather vain at the top of the gables, signaling the landmark of the premise. The neighborhood restaurant and bar has specials every day of the week from wings to draft beer specials. Monday night is football night, Wednesdays are "Rock and Roll" night with margarita specials and Friday night's happy hour includes a taco bar.

Nahas says, "We felt that there was a need for a more casual hangout in midtown, where you did not have to get dressed up and could hang out with friends and have a great meal for an excellent value." Tex-Mex authentic favorites with a funky twist includes eight taco choices each at $1.95, Chili cheese fries for $5.95, which Nahas says have been a smash hit, and all kinds of wings from mild, wild, nuts, chipolte barbecue to honey mustard and jerk, ranging in price from $6.50 for 10 pieces up to $24.99 for 40 pieces. Nachos, quesidillas and burritos are also part of the fare, but are far from ordinary.

For entertainment, the saloon has eight, 32" TV's and a 60" high definition TV, which are placed throughout the saloon, bringing to viewers their favorite college football games and NFL Sunday games. Live entertainment and DJ's are brought in throughout the week and on the weekend. A full bar serving signature Margaritas completes the fun.

Nahas and his partners are not stopping on their creative rollout of Atlanta food and entertainment spots. In the works is an Italian-concept restaurant to open later this year in midtown, called Santino's Di Roma (Little Saints).

Twisted Taco is located at 66 12th street in midtown. The web site address is www.twisted taco.com. Reservations are not necessary. The phone number is 404.607.8771.

Dining tidbits...

Longtime partner of Buckhead life group Chef Paul Albreicht, Formally Paul of Pano's and Paul's, has joined Here to Serve Restaurants. Chef Paul can be seen behind the kitchen line, at Prime at Lenox Square. Also, back by popular demand are Sushi Friday's in the atrium area of Prime from 5 - 7 p.m.... Here to Serve Restaurants and Chateau St. Jean Winery also present "Get On The Bus" A Progressive Wine Dinner, Monday, October 28th, at 6 p.m. Costumes and all, they are doing Halloween Here To Serve Style. Three great restaurants, one mystery stop and lots of wine flowing. The cost is $85 per person plus tax and gratuity and you can call 404.364.9360 for reservations.

Benefiting...

October is Breast Cancer Awareness month and what easier way to show your support than enjoying a cup of homemade hot chocolate. For every jar of Chef Hilly Blondheim's Kitchen Gourmet Chocolate Blend sold, a portion of the proceeds are donated to the Joy to Life Foundation, a non-profit organization providing free mammograms for medically underserved women. You can help with a donation and purchase online at www.chef hillyskitchen.com.... Also helping out, Alpharetta's Rainwater Restaurant Hosts a Silver Oak Wine Dinner Benefit Breast Friends on November 2. For more information and reservations, please call Rainwater restaurant at 770.777.0033.

Taste of Atlanta '02

Experience an autumn weekend filled with chef demonstrations, premium beverages, chef tastings, cooking classes, retail participants and kids' activities, all under the tents at Phipps Plaza. Beneficiaries of the event include the Atlanta Community Food Bank and The Starlight Children's Foundation. The taste-experience event hours are Saturday, October 19th from 11 a.m. - 9 p.m. and Sunday from 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. Ticket prices are $30, which includes 15 taste tokens. Children under 12 are admitted free.

In addition to the daytime festivities, Taste of Atlanta kicks off with an Opening Night Celebration on Friday, October 18th, from 7 p.m. - 11 p.m. with dinner, live music and entertainment. Tickets for the Opening Night Celebration are $100 per person. You can purchase tickets by calling 404.249.6400. Tickets for the Opening Night Celebration "Taste the Adventure" may be purchased at Taste of Atlanta website www.tasteofatlanta.org or by calling 404.995.4490.

Brunch at ONE...

ONE.midtown kitchen, Atlanta's newest Midtown spot, announces weekend brunch beginning Saturday, October 5. Brunch will be offered Saturdays and Sundays from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. and priced from $4 - $12. For more information, please call 404.892.4111 or visit the Web site at www.onemidtownkitchen.com... Chef Michael Tuohy has introduced Atlanta's first-ever cheese tasting series, the Woodfire Cheese Club, set to run the first Tuesday of every month starting October 8 from 6 to 8 p.m. at Woodfire Grill on Cheshire Bridge Road. For $20 per person, guests will enjoy farmstead and artisinal cheese samplings, as well as wines from Woodfire Grill's wine list. For more information call 404.347.9055... For a little variety in your 'tastings' outings, Garrison's at Perimeter Mall has announced 'beer tastings' for the month of October. The tastings will run every Tuesday night from 6 p.m. - 8 p.m. during the restaurant's Happy Hour buffet with beer selections from around the world.

DINING OUT UPDATE • SEPTEMBER 2002

Woodfire Gill opens in former Marra's

Dining Out notes.....Woodfire Grill, Nava, Garrison's, Tierra,
The Palm, Atlanta Hilton, Sheraton Buckhead
E. Andrews Cafe... Comfort food with a Southern flair
Meehan's Ale House... True Irish pub to open early October in Vinings
Magic Fingers Sushi... The ultimate spot for enjoying sushi
Brio Tuscan Grille... No. 2 opens on Ashwood Parkway
Chianti Village Cafe... Casual, neighborhood cafe bound for Roswell
Blue Trout... New Midtown stop in vintage 1920s converted warehouse
Emeril's... Chef Emeril Lagasse to open a Buckhead location

Dining Out notes...

Chef Michael Tuohy's seasonally-influenced, ingredient-focused restaurant, Woodfire Grill featuring Northern California cuisine opened Monday, August 12 at 1782 Cheshire Bridge Road in the former space of Marra's Seafood Grill. The menu will change daily with fresh organic cuisine.

Chef Tuohy is joined by General Manager Charles Marvil, formerly of Prime (also see page 10); Wine Director Greg Koetting, formerly of Murphy's; Sous Chefs Daniel Atwood from Sage and Michael Schardan from Murphy's; and Event Coordinator Cristienne Herron, formerly of Seeger's.

Woodfire Grill is a smoke-free restaurant that serves dinner Monday through Thursday from 5:30 - 10:30 p.m. and on Friday and Saturday from 5:30 p.m. to Midnight. The restaurant is closed on Sundays. For reservations you can call 404.347.9055 or visit www.woodfiregrill.com.

Hot & spicy...

The chili pepper is revered throughout the Southwest and is used in a variety of ways. From salads and salsas to marinades and stews.

Nava, located at 3060 Peachtree Street, uses more than ten varieties of chili peppers in its dishes at any given time and has planned the first-ever Chili Pepper Festival for Sunday, September 22 from 6 to 10 p.m.

The festival will feature live music, artist demonstrations and of course, food highlighting the chili pepper as the key ingredient. Nava's chefs will be on hand to showcase Southwestern food and culture with a menu featuring oysters on the half shell with ahi limon chili mignonette, shrimp and rattlesnake bean enchiladas, smoked morita glazed baby back ribs and barbeque rabbit sweet corn tamales.

Cost is $75 per person which includes food, margaritas and entertainment. A portion of the proceeds will benefit local Latin American charities. For reservations you can call 404.240.1984.

Garrison's adds to team

Thomas Foust has joined Metrotainment's Garrison's Broiler & Tap at Perimeter Mall as the new managing partner. Well-known within the Perimeter-area restaurant scene, Foust served as general manager of McKendrick's Steak House prior to joining the Metrotainment Cafes team.

Foust's other credits include Veni Vidi Vici and Chops in Atlanta and The Water Club, Cafe Destin and Michael Phillips in New York City.

Also joining Metrotainment's team is Deborah Loftis who has been hired to handle marketing and coordinate events at all three Garrison's Broiler & Tap locations.

Loftis previously served a the director or restaurant services at the National Football League in New York in 2000 and in 2001 held the position of director of restaurant services for United States Trust. Before moving to New York, Loftis owned "Back to the Garden Catering" for 15 years in Atlanta catering to the television and film communities.

Celebrating Brazil...

Tierra, a pan-American bistro featuring cuisines from South and Central America, the Caribbean and Mexico, is a small, intimate, inviting eatery. Seating 25, a covered patio is open year-round and overlooks the woods of the Atlanta Botanical Gardens.

Beginning September 3 through 7, Tierra owners Ticha and Dan Krinsky will celebrate the tastes and techniques of Brazil offering an introduction to the many flavors, approaches and styles of the country. The three-course bona-fide Brazilian menu ranges in prices from $22.50 to $25.

For more information you can call 404.874.5951 or visit www.tierra restaurant.com.

Business or pleasure?

The Palm Restaurant, located on Peachtree Road in the lobby of Swissotel Atlanta, is offering a new $14.95 "Business Lunch" menu through October 11.

The menu will feature a choice of: Sliced filet au poivre with mashed potatoes, barbecue turkey sandwich, blackened steak Caesar salad, chicken salad club sandwich, stuffed pork loin with port wine sauce, roast beef and cheddar sandwich, slater special (shrimp bruno and crab cakes) or lobster club sandwich. Each choice served with soup or Caesar salad, cottage fries and onion rings.

For more information you can call 404.233.3993 or visit www.thepalm.com.

Wine Adventure

"An Adventure into Wine" will be offered Wednesdays beginning September 4 and ending October 9, omitting September 25 by Dr. Herbert Spasser at Hilton Atlanta. The five sessions are from 6:15 - 8:15 p.m. The cost is $210 for the complete course.

An advanced course is also available for those with basic wine knowledge and will include an in-depth study of four significant wine regions. This course is offered Tuesdays starting November 12 - December 3 from 6:15 - 8:15 p.m. and will cost $200. Both courses will be taught at Hilton Atlanta in the Forsythe Room. Dr. Spasser has taught this course since 1976.

To make reservations you can call Dr. Spasser at 404.842.1651. Hilton Atlanta is located in downtown Atlanta at 255 Courtland Street NE. Or, for more info visit www.atlanta.hilton.com.

Wine benefit...

Campfire USA will sponsor their 2nd annual Wine tasting and silent auction on Thursday September 9 from 5:30 - 9:00 p.m. to benefit programs to build caring, confident youth and future leaders. Over 150 fine wines and a silent auction to include restaurant certificates, wine and fine art to be auctioned off. Cost is $40 in advance and $45 at the door at the Sheraton Buckhead, 3405 Lenox Road. For more information you can call 404.527.7125.

E. Andrews Cafe nears

by toni m. lublin

It was over ten years ago when the movie Cocktails made a splash. Flair bartending inspired from the movie is a form of serving entertainment and quickly became the rage. Today it lives on in the form of competitions, events and is actively showcased at bars across the country.

One such bar where the quality of the entertainment will live on is the new East Andrews Cafe and Bar. Opening on September 28, the new cafe is designed with a European flair and the owners are hoping it will become the trendy nightspot outing for Atlantan's who want to have a good time and be in an atmosphere with great energy. Soft plush leather seating is surrounded by sophisticated colors, enhancing the environment. Two gardens, one a courtyard inside the restaurant and the other a garden patio, create a tropical dining alternative to indoors.

The partners Steve de Haan, Richard Skaggs, Tyler Gaston, John Piemonte and Chris Hadermann each bring a certain talent to the new venture. Steve de Haan, regarded by his peers as the premier extreme bartender and having been recognized for his gift with winning contests and awards, most recently placing seventh in a worldwide contest sponsored by Sky Vodka.

The cafe will serve comfort food and have a southern flair to the menu selections. Two sections of the menu will make it easy for patrons to either design their meal, calling the selections, Gourmet Blue Plates, or choose from a predetermined list, which is being called Signature Plates. All entrees will be priced below $20.

Signature Plates include filet, served on a Vidalia onion ring with a dash of garlic butter and a side salad. Also part of the Signature selections will be Cordon Blue Buckhead, which is prepared in a wine marinade and stuffed with garlic brie rolled around lean proscuitto slices, hand battered and fried.

Selecting from the Gourmet Blue Plates, you and choose one entree, two sides and choice of home signature sauces, including Madeira, burgundy, Cajun and southwestern. Entree choices include 7 oz. and 10 oz. filet, prime rib, veal and mushroom meatloaf, pork tenderloin and more... sides include asparagus, broccoli, mashed potatoes and macaroni & cheese.

A live blues band is planned for Sunday's and the owners hope to attract young professionals looking for a social destination that is not only entertaining and fun but also offers great food.

The East Andrew Cafe and Bar will be located at 56 East Andrews Drive. The phone number is 404.869.1132. Hours of operation are Monday - Friday from 4 p.m. to 4 a.m. and the kitchen stays open until 2 a.m. On Saturday the hours are from 11 a.m. to 3 a.m. and Sunday until 12. a.m. All major credit cards are accepted.

Meehan's to open

Atlanta restaurant entrepreneurs Steve Buero, Chris Segal, Mark Stillman and Scott Crawford are set to add some Irish charm to the city.

Meehan's Ale House is scheduled to open early October in Vinings serving traditional drafts and spirits with peasant-style food in a cozy atmosphere.

"We saw a desire for an old-spirit Irish gathering spot where guests can go to relax and enjoy themselves with good drinks, good food and good comany," says co-owner Steve Buero who is also co-owner of neighboring SoHo in Vinings with Frank Smith and Chris Segal.

Executive Chef Scott Crawford oversees the kitchens of sister restaurants Food 101 and Mangia 101 and will now add Meehan's to his resume.

The Irish staple dishes will include: beer-battered fish and chips, tradional Reuben sandwich, classic Irish stews and Food 101's popular pot roast and meatloaf.

Meehan's weathered storefront will welcome guests to the 70-seat pub lined with wood beams, 12-foot ceilings, a fireplace and a slate & stone patio that will be open year-round and seat an additional 70 people.

The pub will be located at 2810 Paces Ferry Road in Vinings Station. Meehan's will serve lunch and dinner daily and be open from 11 a.m. to 1 a.m. For more information you can visit www.meehansalehouse.com.

Sushi bar debuts

Bring together the artistic talents of two brothers and the result is the opening of their new sushi bar called Magic Fingers Sushi bar.

Alex and Chris Kinjo refer to their new venture as the ultimate spot for enjoying the art of sushi and sashimi dining. "We want to focus on the hardcore sushi eaters," says Alex Kinjo, who is the partner with a fine-arts background. Alex acted as designer of the interior, menu design and graphics for the restaurant and website. Chris is a veteran chef in the sushi arena, earning the nickname "Magic Fingers" from his peers for the use of his hands when creating his works of art.

The interior of their new venue is a blend of contemporary furniture and colors and the use of hi-tech lighting is effective within the low ceilings. "It has a very European flair from the design to the color scheme I've selected," says Kinjo. The accessories used inside the restaurant have a more traditional Japanese flavor from Japanese antiques and pictures to sculpture.

Magic Fingers Sushi Bar touts that it is the first local Japanese restaurant that will strictly serve sushi offering the customer an authentic sushi dining experience. An extensive list of traditional rolls (6 pieces) ranges from the more common Tekka Maki (Tuna Roll) to the unusual Kampyo Maki (Marinated Japanese Gourd). Also popular are the spicy tuna hand and spicy salmon hand. Traditional rolls range from $3.50 to $6.50.

Special rolls (8 pieces) offer the well-known California Roll to the Dragon Roll (whole Eel on a California roll). A selection of 16 special roll choices are available. The menu also offers Sushi & Sashimi dinner combinations, which range from $17.50 to $45.00. Sashimi Ala Carte and Nigiri Sushi are offered with extensive choices.

Magic Fingers Sushi Bar is located at 265 Ponce De Leon. The web site is www.mfsushibar.com. The phone number is 404.815.8844. Hours of operation including lunch and dinner are Monday - Thursday 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and dinner from 5:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. On Friday lunch is served from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and dinner is served from 5: 30 p.m. to 11 p.m. and Saturday dinner is served from 5:30 a.m. to 11:30 p.m.

Brio No. 2 arrives

The Brio Tuscan Grille has recently opened a second Atlanta location near the Perimeter Mall area. The first Atlanta location opened in Buckhead two years ago and has become a popular haven on Wednesday's Margarita night, which draws a large crowd of young professionals.

The new location's interior is designed to reflect the hills and landscape of Tuscany. Venetian plaster walls, ceramic tile and wood floors create a crisp feeling within the interior and continue onto the outside terrace area. The outdoor terrace has a bar area, seating and water fountains.

Serving a variety of pasta, wood-grilled items and roasted chicken, fish and beef, the menu has a large selection of entrees. Some favorites include the whole oak roasted chicken, which is marinated in lemon pepper for $16.95 and Cappellini alla pesto, which is angel hair pasta tossed with pesto, grilled chicken, fresh Mozzarella, sun-dried tomatoes and pinenuts for $10.95 and Shrimp Risotto, which is sautéed shrimp, seared red peppers, lobster butter and reggiano parmesan cheese for $12.50. Dinner entrees range from $12.50 to $23.95 and lunch entrees range from $8.95 to $19.95.

Currently there are seven Brios located in Ohio, Florida, Alabama, and Kentucky. The developer of Brio is an Ohio-based company called Bravo Development Inc. The new location also has a bacci ball court and terrace, similar to the Buckhead location.

The second Atlanta Brio Tuscan Grille is located at 700 Ashwood Parkway. The phone number is 678.587.0017. The hours of operation are Monday - Thursday from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. and Friday & Saturday from 11 a.m. to 12 a.m. On Sunday a brunch is served from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and the restaurant stays open until 10 p.m. For more information you can visit www.bestitalianusa.com.

Chianti planned

The Chianti Village Cafe is the latest venture for partners Ben Shahbazi, Al Bashiri and Saeid Sedghi. The three partners have developed successful restaurants in Atlanta, including the fourteen-year-old Altobeli's, one of Alpharetta's first fine-dining Italian restaurants, sixteen-year-old Aldo's located in Sandy Springs and Blue Stone, a prime steakhouse which recently opened in Alpharetta. The Chianti Village Cafe is scheduled to open in September.

"This will be a more casual neighborhood restaurant. The interior is chic but causal," explains Shahbazi about the concept and how it differs from the other three restaurants.

Inside the restaurant the ceilings are high and designed with shingle-like materials. A stone water fountain in the center of the restaurant is surrounded by a stone walkway and creates a focal point. A room-within-a-room affect is formed with the use of flowerboxes. The overall effect is similar to being a small town village. In the main dining room hardwood floors and booths provide intimacy for patrons.

A private room which seats up to 60 is available for special occasions. In the main dining room the area can be closed off to seat 30 and the patio area can accommodate up to 40 people.

The upscale, family atmosphere will serve a new menu of health conscious entrees, according to Shahbazi. Included will be lighter sauces and gourmet pizzas. "We want to become a neighborhood and family-style restaurant where you can come and dine many times a week," says Shahbazi.

The location is at 765 Crossville Road in Roswell. The hours of operation are Sunday - Thursday from 5 p.m. - 10 p.m. and on Friday & Saturday from 5 p.m. - 11 p.m.

Blue Trout is open

Restaurateurs Fariba and Tommy Todd recently opened The Blue Trout in Midtown. As the former owners of the Atlantic Star in Decatur, the couple has included some previous menu favorites such as the daily fresh trout brought in from the Blue Ridge Mountains. It is pan sauteed with capers, garlic, spinach, new potatoes and brown butter.

The neighborhood restaurant is located in a vintage 1920s converted warehouse space that the couple restored. The charm of the exposed brick, high ceilings and oversized windows creates an artsy atmosphere. Seating is also available on a large outdoor patio, which seats 100. The space inside can also accommodate private parties in one of two rooms, seating 25 and 80 respectively.

A new menu for the new digs includes a range of American fare and seafood. Choose from slow cooked pork with mashed potatoes and horseradish thyme jus to grilled salmon with sauteed mushrooms or classic filet mignon with French fries for $19. Entrees range from $9 - $19.

During the month of September a special lunch combination for $6, offers the opportunity to try the famous sandwiches, salmon blt, roast pork or hamburger and is served with a choice of side and soft drink. Beginning in October the restaurant will serve a Blue Trout brunch for $10.

Entertainment includes a nationally known cabaret performer, Lisa Paige, who performs at the restaurant once a month. Her next engagement at the Blue Trout is September 21st.

Blue Trout features a premium wine list, offering numerous wines by the glass including many boutique selections such as Sauvignon Blanc, Mason Cellars Napa Valley California '00.

The Blue Trout is located at 554-A Piedmont Avenue. The hours of operation are Tuesday -Saturday from 11:30 a.m. to 11 p.m. and on Saturday from 4 p.m. to 11 p.m. Reservations are not required. The phone number is 404.685.9575.

Emeril's Atlanta due

Celebrity and national television personality, Chef Emeril Lagasse, will be opening his eighth Emeril's Restaurant next summer in Atlanta.

Lagasse began to build his empire with the opening of his own restaurant in 1990 in the chic warehouse district of downtown New Orleans. Ten years later, Chef Lagasse has opened seven restaurants, published six cookbooks (including one for kids) as well as becoming a food correspondent for ABC's "Good Morning America" and host of the Food Networks, "The essence of Emeril" and "Emeril Live."

Recently, he has also introduced Emeril's Vineyards, his own line of wines.

The Atlanta location will be in the Alliance Center in Buckhead. Chef Lagasse selected Atlanta as his newest expansion of his restaurant because of the "great southern town full of folks who like to enjoy life and have a lot of fun." The new location is being designed by the Rockwell Group of New York City. Located on the ground floor of the Alliance Center, which is a new building that has a modern presence of glass-and granite and towers up to 20 stories of offices. The restaurant will occupy 9,500 square feet and seat up to 225 patrons.

Known for his innovative and top-quality commitment to food, his restaurants have received numerous prestigious awards. With his national following, many Atlantan's are sure to be excited about this well-known personality opening one of his restaurants in Atlanta.

DINING OUT UPDATE • AUGUST 2002

One.Midtown Kitchen to open late August

Dining Out notes..... Tom Tom & Goldfish, Rainwater, Canoe, Hilton Atlanta, Mangia, Spice, City Grill, Villa Christina, McCormick & Schmick's
One.Midtown Kitchen...Bob Amick's newest venture in heart of Midtown
Woodfire Grill...Michael Tuohy's latest bound for former Marra's location
Sala, Sabor de Mejico...Taste of Mexico to open in Virginia-Highlands
Barello's Trattoria...Authentic regional Italian cuisine in Sandy Springs
Little Azio...Counter-service Azio to open on Peachtree Street

Tom Tom's moving

Tom Tom, a Bistro's lease at Lenox Square is expiring this year. Tom Catherall and Here To Serve Restaurants have been looking for an alternative location. They've been offered a space in the front of Phipps Plaza facing Peachtree. The elaborate space offered by Phipps is too large for Tom Tom, but perfect for a second Goldfish.

Goldfish at Phipps Plaza will have the same successful elements as Goldfish at Perimeter Mall, but with a much larger bar, a satay station, tapas and a 75 seat patio. Goldfish Phipps will host fun happy hours daily and will be open late with live nightly music.

Favorite classic Tom Tom dishes will appear on all of the menus at other Here To Serve locations, and of course, the world famous sizzling catfish is featured at Goldfish daily.

Tom Tom a Bistro, which has been a fan favorite for the last nine years, will be reincarnated at a new location. For more information, please call, 404.364.9360.

Rainwater update

Gregg Smith has been appointed special events manager at North Fulton's Rainwater restaurant, known for its wine country inspired new American cuisine. In addition, he was recently honored with the 2002 Restaurateur of the Year award given by the Alpharetta Convention & Visitor's Bureau.

Active in Atlanta's restaurant community for more than eight years, Smith joins Rainwater from his most recent position as director of sales and marketing for both the North Fulton and Atlanta locations of Horseradish Grill. Prior to Horseradish Grill, Smith worked for the two locations of Fratelli di Napoli and The Tap Room as director of sales and marketing.

Wines by the River

Canoe, located at 4199 Paces Ferry Road, has monthly "Wines by the River" tastings that feature wines from around the world. The tastings are held in Canoe's 'River Garden' which overlooks the Chattahoochee River and are scheduled for August 15th, September 19th and October 17th (see page 10). The cost is $15 per person and includes hors d' oeuvres. Reservations are strongly recommended and can be made by calling 770.432.2663 or visiting www.canoeatl.com.

Hilton additions...

Hilton Atlanta announces the promotion of Mitchell Duggan to Director of Food & Beverage. A native of Ireland, Duggan worked with Hilton New York and Towers for seven years prior to moving to Atlanta in September 2001.

Christophe Orlarei was recently hand-picked to be Nikoai's Roof's new Sommelier. As a native of Paris, France, Christophe has spent the past four years in London, England, refining his knowledge and appreciation of wine. Offering French Continental cuisine with Russian flair and panoramic views of the city lights and sights, Nikolai's Roof rests on the 30th floor of the downtown Hilton

Hilton Atlanta, celebrating 26 years of being a part of the downtown area, hotel's restaurants include Nikolai's Roof, Trader Vic's and the Garden Terrace known for its Sunday Jazz Brunch and three lounges. For more information call 404.659.2000 or visit www. atlanta.hilton.com

Lunch at Mangia

Since opening in May, Mangia 101, sister restaurant of SoHo in Vinings and Food 101 in Sandy Springs, now offers authentic, regional Italian cuisine for lunch.

Located in the Brookhaven area at 4085 Peachtree Road, Mangia's lunch covers all the bases with appetizers, salads, sandwiches and pastas/entrees ranging in price from $5 to $8.

Hours are lunch weekdays from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and dinner Sunday through Wednesday from 5:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. and Thursday through Saturday til 11 p.m. For more information you can call 404.467.9531.

'Bottomless glass night'

Spice, located at 793 Juniper Street in Midtown, has dubbed its Thursday evenings from 6 to 8 p.m. 'bottomless glass night.' For $10 patrons enjoy featured cheeses and wines from local distributors. Executive chef Jonathan St. Hilaire has taken the 'dairy' craze to the next level and highlights a local Atlanta dairy farm that utilizes traditional techniques of cheese making by pairing each cheese with an accompaniment to enhance the cheese's natural flavor. A velvet cheese is served with dried fruit compote, the goat cheese is rolled in Georgia pecans and served with roasted peaches, the lumiere sets atop a beet salad and a farm namesake &emdash; Green Hill cheese is served with a mixed olive salad. For reservations of more information you can call 404.875.4242 or visit www.spice restaurant.com.

Wine on Wednesdays

City Grill, located in the historic 1912 Hurt building in downtown Atlanta at 50 Hurt Plaza, has a new prix-fixe lunch menu, dinner menu and a special light rush hour menu offered 5 - 6:30 p.m. on weekdays. City Grill now offers 'Wine on Wednesday' tastings that allow guests to banish the rush hour blues and sample a variety of wines, scheduled from 6:30 - 8 p.m. on Wednesday, August 21. Light hors d' oeuvres will be passed during the tasting. The cost is $19 per person excluding tax and gratuity. For reservations you can call 404.524.2489 or go online at www.citygrillatlanta .com

Wine Festival 2002

Villa Christina, located at 4000 Summit Boulevard, hosts The Wine Festival this year on Sunday, August 25th from noon until 6 p.m.

Villa Christina mirrors and Italian-style villa, complete with gourmet restaurant offering eclectic Italian cuisine and seafood, meeting rooms, an elegant ballroom and outdoor event pavilion.

The festival features sample pours of a variety of premium wines, gourmet food prepared by Atlanta's favorite restaurants and wine-related arts and entertainment, including live music preformed by some of the city's best Jazz and pop-rock acts.

Tickets are $40 per person in advance, $45 at the door, limited to those 21 years of age and older. To purchase tickets you can call 404.303.0133 or visit www.villachristina.com

Back to school

McCormick & Schmick's Seafood Restaurant located at 600 Ashwood Parkway has teamed up with Children's Restoration Network to make the first day of school special for homeless children in Atlanta.

Now through August 9th, patrons have the opportunity to donate a new backpack and/or school supplies at the restaurant. The collected supplies will be distributed to over 65 children's shelters throughout Atlanta.

For more information you can call 770.399.9900.

by toni m. lublin

One.Midtown Kitchen

Bob Amick and Todd Rushing have named their new restaurant One.Midtown Kitchen, securing the opportunity for a future 'Two' and 'Three' expansion. Amick has four decades of restaurant business experience, including the founder of Mick's, co-owner of Killer Creek Chophouse as well as creating the Peasant Restaurants in the 70's. Rushing was previously general manager at Killer Creek and Ruth's Chris Steakhouse.

One.Midtown Kitchen is slated to open in late August 2002, in the heart of midtown. Located in an area that once attracted industrial and commercial warehouses and which has converted into a mix of retail shops, restaurants and upscale condo living space. The restaurant offers a panoramic view of Piedmont Park and the Atlanta skyline.

The concept according to Amick is the beauty of simplicity, from the standpoint of how the food is prepared and the interior design elements. The renowned Bill Johnson of Johnson Studio's is designing the 6,000 square foot space. "The restaurant is located in an old brick warehouse. The challenge for The Johnson Studio was to convert the space to give it a low-tech atmosphere with energy instead of a high-tech cold atmosphere," says Amick. The space uses cozy fabrics, various lighting techniques and candles. The floor plan is designed so that a focal point is the open kitchen, which has a wood burning grill and oven.

A star talent from New York is in charge of the kitchen by the name of chef Kevin Reilly. He was most recently at Zoë in SoHo for eight years rising from sous chef to executive chef. Prior to Zoë, Reilly was with the China Grill and Union Square Cafe, both in New York City. His experience traveling to the Mediterranean and Caribbean as a chef on the luxury ship QE II (Queen Elizabeth 2) inspired Reilly's cooking style. "The foundation of my style is the fresh ingredients and keeping the preparation simple, so the flavors of the dish stand up and shine. For example, we will be serving a chargrilled tuna with a herb and spice sauce, which is toasted garlic, thyme, chives, fennel seed, olive oil, poppyseed, soy sauce and orange and lemon zest," says Reilly. The menu utilizes fresh local produce such as corn and peaches, which will be used in salads and sides. "I have prepared a Fennel-citrus salad served with the tuna that is shaved fennel, Asian pear and blood orange," says Reilly.

Small plates, which will range from $8 - $12, offer a light alternative and the chance to try a few different dishes. Choices from Shellfish Pan roast, which is lobster, sea scallops, mussels and clams in a rich lobster broth with chili oil and grilled sourdough bread to Wood oven Pizza with Potato, fontina and Arugula for $9. Entrees, or large plates, offered include Grilled Lemon chicken stir fry with Jasmine rice, wild rice and yellow split peas with scallions and pistachio for $14 and Whole roasted fish with arugula, Yukon gold potatoes and artichokes, which are tossed with a white anchovy garlic butter. Entrees range from $14 - $18. A full bar and a 50-bottle wine list will feature wines by the glass and bottle, priced in four tiers, all under $50.

One.Midtown Kitchen is located at 559 Dutch Valley Road. Hours of operation are Monday - Thursday from 5:30 p.m. to 10 p.m., Friday - Saturday from 5:30 p.m. to 12 p.m. and on Sunday from 5:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. Reservations are not needed. The phone number is 404.892.4111.

Woodfire nears

Chef Michael Tuohy has named Charles Marvil, his former manager at Chefs' Cafe and Chefs' Grill, general manager of Woodfire Grill. Marvil brings with him nearly 20 years of hospitality experience in Atlanta and beyond, having worked for the Ritz-Carlton and Four Seasons as well as Atlanta restaurants. Most recently he was manager at Prime at Lenox Square. A Delaware native, Marvil graduated with a B.S. in Hospitality Administration from Georgia State.

Woodfire Grill is Chef Tuohy's Northern California style restaurant that will open in the space formerly occupied by Marra's Seafood Grill on Cheshire Bridge Road in late summer. It will feature a daily changing menu of seasonally influenced, ingredient-focused organic cuisine. Foods will be fire-roasted and grilled, served as tastes, small plates, main courses, and platters for sharing. Woodfire Grill aims to be open dinner-only, six nights, and closed Sundays because purveyors do not deliver Sundays.

'Mexico' taste next

Virginia-Highland will be the next stop for Fifth Group Restaurant owners Robby Kukler, Steve Simon and Kris Reinhard. The group will be adding, Sala, (parlor, hall or large room in which people gather for celebration) Sabor de Mejico (Taste of Mexico) in late September to their list of Atlanta restaurants, South City Kitchen, The Food Studio, La Tavola Trattoria and Bold American Food Co.

Nestor Gomez, whose experience includes the Mayfair House Hotel and Marks' in the Grove, both in Coconut Grove, Florida will serve as executive chef.

"This Virginia-Highland location is the ideal place to open a neighborhood restaurant," says Kukler. "We are going to present genuine, delicious, quality Mexican food in a relaxed, fun atmosphere. While Mexican concepts aren't common in the area, those who know us from La Tavola Trattoria just down the street know what they can expect -- casual, welcoming surroundings with exemplary service."

The prices will range from $4 to $9 for appetizers including ceviche, Oaxacan-style empanadas, chilorio flautas and chiles rellenos. Entrees are $10 to $15 and include pork loin, braised chicken, roasted leg of lamb and enchiladas.

Sala will also feature an impressive list of tequilas and festive margaritas and be located at 1186 North Highland Avenue (the former Camille's location).

Hours are Monday - Thursday 5:30 p.m. - 11 p.m., Friday & Saturday 5:30 p.m. - midnight and Sunday 5:30 p.m. - 10 p.m. For more information you can call 678.302.3251.

Borello's to open

As a native of Milan, Italy, Alfonso Borello has an innate panache for everything Italian. His new restaurant Borello's Trattoria and Caffe, which will open August 15, 2002 and continues his desire to bring authentic regional Italian cuisine in a neighborhood-style to Sandy Springs.

This is Borello's third restaurant. He was owner of Ciao Bella and Cappuccino Time and prior to that he was the manager of the popular Otto's Nightclub. "My new restaurant will offer good Italian food, ambiance and service," says Borello. His partner, Tina Rowden has a strong background in advertising and public relations, skills which will be helpful in promoting the restaurant. Together, the partners have launched a haven which Buckhead and Sandy Springs residents will find convenient to enjoy an authentic Italian meal in an intimate setting.

As executive chef, Borello has planned a regional Italian menu. Appetizers include Porcini Alla Crema, Piemonte, which is Porcini in cream, Impepata Di Cozze, Campania, which are mussels with black pepper and Tuscan apple and arugula salad. Homemade hearty soups such as Potato and zucchini soup with mint and Bean soup with ditalini are also choices. Pasta, chicken, duck, veal and fish are all offered in various homemade style Italian recipes. A pasta dish, called Pappardelle Con Salsiccia E Piselli, Lombardia is served with sausage and peas. Risotto Al Granchio, Veneto is served with crab and shrimp and Ossobuco, Lombardia, is braised veal shanks. Entrees will range from $15 to $28. A wide selection of Italian wines are offered between $16 to $28. Borello has hired a pastry chef to make a range of Italian desserts and is offering an extensive coffee selection.

The interior is tastefully done in neutral tones and natural materials. A large mural by internationally acclaimed artist Brenda Mauney Councill adds Italian classicism with modern icons, to add warmth to the interior. A large Italian marble bar also sets off the cozy atmosphere.

Borello's is located at 4969 Roswell Road in Sandy Springs. Reservations are suggested. The phone number is 404.843.8789. Hours of operation are Tuesday - Sunday 4:30 p.m. to 1 a.m. The web site is www.borellos.net.

Little Azio planned

A new Italian restaurant called Little Azio is opening at the end of August in downtown Atlanta. Partners George Rohrig and Nick Ellis, who have opened other well-known Atlanta restaurants such as Peachtree Cafe, Nickiemoto's and East Village Grille, are very excited about their new concept.

"Little Azio will be a causal, moderately priced Italian restaurant, serving from brick oven pizza to pasta dishes such as Penne Florentine," says Rohrig. The counter service Pizza ordering and then delivered to your table, is ideal for those looking for a quick bite. Table service for other entrees will be available. Entrees will range from $7.95 to $12.95. In addition to the pizza, and pasta dishes, sandwiches and a range of salads will be part of the menu selection. The 2,000 square foot interior seats 80 and outside area seats 100.

The location of Little Azio is 903 Peachtree Street.

DINING OUT UPDATE • JULY 2002

Brio Tuscan Grille joins Perimeter mix

Brio Tuscan Grille..... Second Atlanta location to open near Perimeter Mall
Green Papaya Vietnamese Bistro....combining Vietnamese & French cuisines
Sorelle di Napoli....Authentic Italian opened on Roswell Road
Murphy's Restaurant.....Virginia-Highland tradition renovates
Cafe Jalapenos.....Returns to original concept
Dining Out notes..... Notes, news and tidbits on Atlanta dining

by toni m. lublin

Brio Tuscan Grille, an Ohio based Italian restaurant company, will open its second restaurant in Atlanta in late August. The new restaurant will be located at 700 Ashwood Parkway north of Perimeter Mall.

"We are thrilled to open another Brio Tuscan Grille in the Atlanta area," says Chris Doody, Owner/President and COO. "We are looking forward to extending the restaurant's popularity from our Buckhead location to our new Ashwood location."

BRIO! (Meaning "lively" or "full of life") is a casual, white-tablecloth restaurant serving authentic, northern Italian food. The subtitle "Tuscan Grille" is descriptive in the menu that features wood-grilled steaks, chops and whole fresh fish, similar to what one would find in authentic ristorante in Tuscany.

The 8,100 square foot restaurant includes indoor seating for 220 and outdoor seating for 75. Special features include two outdoor Italian-style courtyard setting terraces, an exterior bar, three private party rooms and three Bocce Ball courts.

General Manager, Colman Goodrich and Executive Chef, Brian Harvey, both formerly of other Brio locations, will head the management team for the Ashwood location.

The restaurant's interior features such details as antique, hardwood Cypress flooring, arched colonnades, hand crafted Italian mosaics, antique doors, hand-crafted walls covered in antique Venetian plaster, Arabescato marble - imported from Italy and sizable wrought-iron chandeliers.

Brio offers lunch, brunch and dinner. The average check per person is $14 for lunch and $20 for dinner. Menu entrees include: Mushroom Ravioli Al Forno, Tuscan-Grilled Pork Chops, Chicken "Under the Brick", Gorgonzola-crusted Filet, Pollo Al more..., Forno Flatbread, Lasagna Bolognese Al Forno, Whole Oak Roasted Chicken, Wood-Grilled Salmon Salad, Garganelli Carbonara, Pasta BRIO and Mike's Famous Cheesecake.

Brio Tuscan Grille is owned by BRAVO! Development, Inc. and currently operates five Brio restaurants located in Columbus, OH; Atlanta, GA; Birmingham, AL; Newport, KY; and Winterpark, FL.

Brio will be open seven days a week; Sunday - Thursday 11 a.m. -10 p.m. and Friday & Saturday 11 a.m. - 11 p.m. and will take a limited number of reservations. The number is 770.393.0954.

Green Papaya Bistro due

As global influences filter into our everyday living, from music, apparel and even in furniture design, so are the choices of cuisines we are offered. Opening in early July, the Green Papaya Vietnamese Bistro will present the opportunity to dine on a cuisine which is a blend of Vietnamese and French.

Owners Suong Ives and Mikel Estes are very excited about opening in Marietta and sharing the magic of Vietnamese and French cuisine. "We want to offer the community a place to discover French Vietnamese, which is a healthy and delicious alternative. Colonial French influences are found in Vietnamese cuisine and we have designed a menu which offers both, in our soups, entrees, salads and sandwiches," says partner Suong Ives.

Ives was previously in Human Resources for 20 years, traveling the majority of time back and forth to Paris. Her love of Vietnamese cooking and the events of 9/11 changed her outlook on life. She made a major change so that she could spend more time with her teenage children and do what she loves.

The atmosphere is playful and eclectic. The walls are foie painted as if sitting at a Paris bistro. The eclectic mismatch of tables and tile work give Green Papaya a light and causal feeling. The bar was commissioned to look like an antique and is made of solid mahogany. "We wanted to create a bistro which is fun, creative and where everyone can find something they would like to try," says Ives.

Green Papaya's executive chef, Kenneth Clark was formerly the foodservice manager at the Georgia Dome.

Dinner entrees are served with fragrant jasmine rice and fresh vegetables in-season or a house salad. Seafood dishes include Claypot scampies (Tom Rim), which are imported freshwater lobster simmered with traditional spices. Escoffier Au Gratin (Cua Farei), which is crab shell stuffed with crabmeat and mushrooms, served with a special sauce. Beef grilled kabobs are served with rice vermicelli, mint and roasted peanuts (Bun Thit Nuong) and marinated with spices.

A fun item to order is the grill-your-own Vietnamese BBQ (Bo Nuong Vi) at your table, served with fresh herbs, rice paper and pineapple sauce. You have a choice of beef, seafood or a combination. Appetizers, soups and salads include Sugarcane Shrimp, Sizzling Crepe and Pate Foie and soups offer the traditional hot and sour Vietnamese favorite, with touches of lemongrass and pineapple. Beef Noodle soup (Pho) is a Viet-Nam national dish. Salads include green papaya, which is shredded fresh green papaya, mint, roasted peanuts served with a tender, aromatic five-spiced beef. A salad called Lotus salad serves succulent shrimp with julienne carrots and cucumbers, mint basil and roasted peanuts.

The Green Papaya-Vietnamese Bistro is located at 3000 Windy Hill Road, Suite A1 in Marietta. The phone number is 770.984.1177. The hours of operation are Monday - Thursday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Friday & Saturday from 12 p.m. to 11 p.m.

Sorelle Di Napoli

Mario Chabaytini has 20 years of restaurant experience, some of that spent in the Northeast in New Haven, Connecticut. Chabaytini's new restaurant Sorelle Di Napoli in Atlanta serves authentic Italian food. The Sicilian born partner describes the new fine dining restaurant and why he opened in Atlanta. "Sandy Springs needs a causal fine dining Italian restaurant which serves big portions, excellent quality, service and a beautiful ambiance." His partner, Paul Da Ganses, is also part owner of the House of Italy on Cheshire Bridge.

Sorelle, meaning sisters of Naples, has real homemade Italian recipes serving the purest in Italian breading, fish and pasta. As a chef from Naples, Chabytini says, "We use everything which is pure Italian." The restaurant seats 75 and outdoor seating for 60. A private dining room to seat 40 is also available.

Opened since June 7, Sorelle Di Napoli has a lunch and dinner menu which offers a generous selection of classic Italian choices of seafood, veal, chicken and pasta dishes. Fresh lobster, salmon, and shrimp are delivered daily from a major fish distributor called Inland Seafood. Pasta dishes include shrimp taglietelle, clams vongole and spicy lemon scallops, all ranging from $13.95 - $14.95. Seafood choices include herb crusted salmon and shrimp rustica. Five salad choices which include Caesar, spinach and Mediterranean balance out the entrees. Appetizers are also tempting, and include calamari fritti, steamed mussels and antipasto sorelle..

Sorelle is located at 4920 Roswell Road in the Fountain Oaks Shopping Center. The phone number is 404.255.0666 or 404.252.5333. The hours of operation are lunch Monday - Thursday from 11 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and dinner from 5 pm. to 10 p.m. On Friday & Saturday hours are from 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. for lunch and 5 p.m. to 11p.m. for dinner.

Murphy's renovates

Celebrating its 22nd year at 997 Virginia Avenue, Murphy's Restaurant has recently completed an extensive renovation This rustic-style restaurant epitomizes the essence of the Virginia-Highlands neighborhood.

Murphy's has added a boutique wine shop featuring a well-rounded collection of more than 300 wines. Also added was a food-friendly granite-top bar; dine-in or 'to-go' extensive pastry bar; an expansion of the patio spanning the entire front of the restaurant; and, interior lighting for a 'sparkling' appearance from the street at night.

Murphy's as named Craig Jeffress as general manager and appointed Nick Oltarsh as executive chef.

Chef Oltarsh's new menu carries on Murphy's culinary concept of a contemporary American bistro with such items as grilled flatiron steak with potato stew, spring tomatoes and roasted peppers; flounder with julienne spring vegetables and kaffir red pepper sauce; and heirloom tomato salad with fresh bean and goat cheese.

Murphy's is open Monday through Thursday 11 a.m. - 10 p.m., Friday 11 a.m. - midnight, Saturday 10 a.m. to midnight and Sunday 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. For more information you can visit www.murphysvh.com or call 404.872.0904.

Jalapenos again

Cafe Jalapenos, is a restaurant whose fire just would not go out. Opened since 1992 the restaurant left its roots for one month to try something different, tapas. The regulars protested and will be happy to know Cafe Jalapenos is back.

Located at 2520 Piedmont Road in Atlanta, a famous margarita comes from Cafe Jalapenos, according to owner Hocein Zand, "Cafe Jalapenos is affectionately known as home of the kick ass Margarita." Zand is referring to the many sizes available all the way up to a 48 oz. monster Texas style for $14, really big.

The multi-colored plaster walls of blues, yellow, pinks and beige is not what you typically find in a Mexican house, but the colorful interior with arched walls and stone plaster make it unique.

Zand says the long running restaurant will never go away because, "we have had the same chef for the last eight years, Moses Ayala, and we serve a variety of healthy food, no animal shortening and a variety of vegetarian dishes."

The restaurant seats 120 inside and 60 on the outside patio. The full bar area seats 25 and has three TVs. A private dining room is also available. Entrees range for the Mexican kabob or the Almbres to traditional Mexican dishes from chicken, beef and shrimp.

Reservations are not required. The phone number is 404.237.0500. Hours of operation are from Tuesday - Friday, 11 a.m. -11 p.m., Sunday from 2 p.m. -12 a.m. and on Saturday from 2 p.m. - 11 p.m.

Dining notes...

Brio Tuscan Grille, 2964 Peachtree Road, announces weekly Martini Nights. The celebration will take place on Wednesday nights and Brio will take $2 off all martinis including an exclusive menu that offers contemporary and traditional martinis such as the Ultimate Cosmopolitan, Appletini, Flirtini and the famous Saraztini. In addition to Martini Nights, the summer terrace is now open for dining... Cherry has opened its patio, decorated with greenery, a waterfall and small fishpond, to introduce Midtown's happy hour - Bali High - every Friday night beginning at 5 p.m. until the tikki torches expire. Under the canopy of lights, Bali High Fridays feature the reggae-inspired musical stylings of Honeybone. A complimentary Pacific Rim buffet and $3 Red Stripe from 5:30 - 8 p.m. complete the picture. Known for its hip atmosphere, fare and chic crowd, Cherry offers a menu of American and European food flavored with a hint of Asian inspiration... City Grill, located in downtown at 50 Hurt Plaza, plans to feature "fresh from the Georgia farm" dishes on their menu throughout the summer, to promote organic and Georgia-grown produce. City Grill is to host a champagne reception and delectable five-course dinner celebration on Thursday, July 11, from 6:30-7:30 p.m. upstairs, in the private balcony area. Cost of the reception and dinner are $75 per person. The price is $25 for those attending the reception only. Reservations are necessary. City Grill earned the DiRona Award of Excellence in 2002 and was also named an AAA Four-Diamond restaurant for the 10th year in a row. For more information visit www.greathospitalityrestaurants.com. or call 404.524.2489.

Dining tidbits...

Restaurants located in the heart of the city are uniting for the first time to launch a six-day dinner promotion this summer to stimulate downtown as a destination among local customers and visitors. Modeled after the sister cities of New York, Boston, Washington, DC and Philadelphia, Downtown Atlanta Restaurant Week is scheduled to run from July 29 through August 3. Participating restaurants will offer three-course dinners for $20.02 (excluding tax and tip), a price based on the current calendar year. Approximately 15 downtown restaurants are expected to participate: Atlanta Grill (The Ritz-Carlton - Atlanta), Avanzare (Hyatt Regency - Atlanta), Caliterra (Wyndham Atlanta), City Grill, Dailey's Restaurant & Bar, the Grille at 590 (Atlanta Renaissance Hotel), Hsu's Gourmet Chinese, Mumbo Jumbo, Pacific Rim Bistro, Pleasant Peasant, Polaris (Hyatt Regency - Atlanta) and Trader Vic's (Atlanta Hilton Hotel). Proceeds generated through Downtown Atlanta Restaurant Week will benefit the Atlanta Community Food Bank. For additional information visit atlantadowntown.com/restaurantweek.htm or call Central Atlanta Progress at 404.658.1877... FuegoLatin Cafe, located on State Bridge Road in Alpharetta, is offering 'Easy Thursdays' and 'Classic Weekends.' James Cobb's classical guitar style will be featured Fridays and Saturdays, beginning July 5, from 7:30 to 10:30 p.m. Thursday evenings will be singer/guitarist Mike Rodgers with a mellow mix of easy-listening favorites. He starts Thursday July 4 and plays from 7:00 to 10:00 p.m. For more information call 770.753.4477... The Village Tavern, 11555 Rainwater Drive in Alpharetta, will host a cool summer Jazz series Thursday and Friday nights through August on the patio from 6 p.m. - 10 p.m. For more information, call 770.777.6490.

More dining tidbits...

Brookwood Grill, located at 880 Holcomb Bridge Road in Roswell, has launched their new "Tithe A Meal" project. Running through October 6, Sunday diners at Brookwood can have 10% of the cost of their meal donated to charity. Various charities are represented and for more information you can visit www.Brookwoodgrill.com or call 770.587.0102... Fishbone Restaurant and Piranha Bar, located at 1874 Peachtree Road, has introduced a new 'Lounge Menu' to their offerings. The menu is offered Monday - Friday from 4 p.m. to 7 and Friday and Saturday from 11 p.m. - 1 a.m. Its purpose is to cater to those who want sophisticated dining at an atypical hour. Some of the Lounge items include: raw beau soleil oysters, baked chorizo stuffed clams, lightly fried squid with capers, ahi tuna burger with ginger and wasabi, chilled jumbo prawns with homemade ketchup and steamed mussels in buttery, lemon broth and garlic bread. For information you can visit www.fishbonepiranhabar.com or call 404.367.4772.

Get on the bus...

Here To Serve Restaurants will be hosting their Second Progressive Wine Dinner featuring Beaulieu Vineyards Winery, Monday, July 15, at 6 p.m. The evening starts at Goldfish, located at Perimeter Mall, where guests will be welcomed with hors d'oeuvres including, seared tuna herb crusted with sesame crisps, baked mussels with leeks and smoked salmon, and foie gras toast with sauterne jelly served with Napa Sauvignon Blanc. At 6:45 p.m. luxury buses will transport guests to Buckhead for the next two courses. A series of Beaulieu Vineyards wines will also be served on each bus trip. The first stop will be Prime at Lenox Mall for Wood Grilled Lamb Loin, served on warm lentils with fresh arugula, roquefort cheese, sun dried cranberries and a port-balsamic reduction which has been paired with BV Bezeaux. From Prime there is a walk down to Tom Tom a bistro, for the main course of Whole Grain Mustard Crusted Beef Tenderloin with truffled yukon gold mashed potatoes, chanterelle mushrooms and English peas, which has been paired with BV Rutherford Cabernet Sauvignon. Next guest board the busses again and head to Noche in the heart of the Virginia Highlands. Here they will be serving walnut & sultana ice cream with roasted fruits, which has been paired with BV Muscat then back to Goldfish. For pricing and reservations or more information, call 404.364.9360.

July 4th...

Looking for a few 'Fourth' ideas? Here's just a few of what Atlanta has to offer. For patriotic guests wishing to enjoy a casual dinner of traditional American favorites in an outdoor setting, Atlanta Grill, located in the Ritz-Carlton downtown, offers "Sunset on the Verandah," July 4 from 5:30 to 9 p.m. Guests will be seated on the restaurant's verandah overlooking Peachtree Street. Early seating is offered for families planning to watch the fireworks display at Centennial Olympic Park, for a leisurely dinner before walking to the park. The cost is $25 per adult, $12.50 per child (12 and under). For reservations, please call 404.221.6550. Early reservations are encouraged for seating on the verandah... The forty-three-year-old tradition continues at Lenox Square this 4th of July. Touted as the Southeast's largest fireworks show, this year includes a patriotic video show that will be intermixed. The entertainment begins at 6 p.m. and fireworks start at 9:30... The Mall of Georgia, located on Buford Drive in Buford, is offering a family day on the Fourth filled with live music, shopping, children's activities and an evening of fireworks. Beginning at 11 a.m. the amphitheater will feature live entertainment. The Kids' Zone features games and carnival-style fun. For more information you can call 678.482.8788.

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