Scoutmob Atlanta

50% Off at Aja Restaurant & Bar

Thu, 11 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0400

The Scoop: Better polish up those chopstick skills, because the food coming out of this swanky Buckhead restaurant will keep you busy for at least two or three lychee martinis. Swanky is the operative word here; the dark, spacious, and always-lively spot below the Alliance Center is virtually swathed in glam. Even for those of us who are more concerned with diggin' in than decor-gazing, Aja's atmosphere is undeniably impressive, the highlight being the bronze Buddha statue brought straight from Thailand. It's kind of hard to miss, being 10 feet tall and all. The colossal statue sits serenely on one wall of the room, surrounded by candles and peacefully keeping an eye on diners as they tuck in to plates of sushi, shaken beef, and other Asian (or is it Ajan?) dishes. It's all about love and light... and sashimi.

Scout Notes: As trendy a hotspot as Aja is, one trend it does not buckle to is "fusion." Nope, this is not a restaurant where multiple cultures are tossed together in one big stir-fry. It's described as a modern Asian kitchen, and that kitchen delivers flavorful dishes from Thai, Vietnamese, Chinese, Singaporean, and Japanese cuisines, to name a few. Which means you can enjoy everything from Korean bulgogi to pad thai to Vietnamese shaken beef (or all of the above), include some of the restaurant's revered sushi, and top it off with a dessert of hollowed-out coconut filled with coconut ice cream... all while lounging on the sprawling outdoor patio or under the watchful eye of Buddha in the main dining room.

With the extensive range of culinary influences happening back in that open kitchen, there truly isn't a craving that can't be satiated by Aja's menu. Yearning for a hot, spicy bowl of Indian fare? There's a lamb vindaloo for that. Looking to go a bit on the lighter side? Hit up the sushi bar at the back of the restaurant, where Chef Jimmy, a near-legendary sushi chef, is taking up residence. And of course, if your sweet tooth is calling, Aja's dessert menu is equal parts luxurious and fun. I got to see the young coconut in all its glory, a hefty hollowed-out coconut filled with coconut ice cream, topped with lemongrass shaved ice, and garnished with a perky little paper umbrella. Don't forget Aja's bar, home of their signature lychee martini, which has been enough to gain cult-like status among fans of the China-native berry. Indeed, with such enticing cocktails, rich cuisine, and dramatic atmosphere, Aja is most certainly on the path to your tastebuds' enlightenment.

Menu Highlights:
Hot Chili Seafood, $9
Spicy Duck Fried Rice, $8 (small) - $12 (regular)
Shrimp Thai Red Coconut Curry, $9 (small) - $18 (large)
Vietnamese Shaken Beef, $22
Fatty Tuna (Toro) Sashimi, $13
Yellowtail Jalapeno, $8
Surf & Turf Roll, $12
Young Coconut, $10

Hours:
Lunch:
Monday - Friday, 11:30 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Dinner:
Sunday - Wednesday, 4 p.m. - 10 p.m.
Thursday, 4 p.m. - 11 p.m.
Friday & Saturday, 4 p.m. - 12 a.m.

Meet Marcela & Kerry, Two Pretty Ambitious Music Mavens

Thu, 11 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0400

Atlanta's music scene has come a long way from this. At the forefront of the sweaty basement shows, the Tuesday nights at Suburban Lanes, and the roster of young, talented bands popping up is Pretty Ambitious, a record label founded just a year ago by Kerry Gibson and Marcela Gonzalez. Coming up on their one-year anniversary (and a big birthday bash coming up at Star Bar next weekend), Kerry and Marcela had plenty to talk about. Check out what these music mavens have to say about the state of Atlanta's music scene, the best place to refuel after 5 a.m., and that one weird thing that happened at the Majestic that night.

SCOUT: Introduce yourself and tell our readers how they might know you.
KERRY: I’m Kerry, the label manager. People might know me from the Scooby Doo mysteries or from being at what feels like every show ever. But, for the most part, from running Pretty Ambitious.
MARCELA: I’m Marcela. I do marketing, PR and booking for the label. You might recognize me as the girl that works from Aurora L5P all day, everyday, or of course from shows.

SCOUT: Tell us about Pretty Ambitious. When was it born? How was it conceived? Any story behind the name?
MARCELA: Pretty Ambitious was born from a love we shared of indie/ punk rock. Lower 40 Records, our alt country label, didn’t really have the capacity to harbor these bands we really wanted to work with, so we started Pretty Ambitious and released Mermaids. The label was officially born June 2010.
KERRY: The name comes from this guy we know who said that this idea we had once was “pretty ambitious of us”. A few months after that, the label was born.

SCOUT: How and why did you get yourself into the record biz?
MARCELA: My music experiences started in college. I studied and managed my college radio station, did internships (where I worked for Kerry) and began doing PR. After graduating, I moved to NY and did music PR for some pretty big hitters. Cue some bad circumstances that led me back to Atlanta, reconnected with Kerry and started working PR for Lower 40. The rest is history.
KERRY: I went to my first show when I was six and began an intense love affair with music in every capacity. Going to shows, buying records, reading music publications, and just being around music is what inspired me every day. I worked in various aspects of the business including college radio and at 26, quit my job to intern at a label/ promotions agency (where Marcela interned for me). After leaving there in 2006, I started Lower 40. 4 years later, Pretty Ambitious came along.

SCOUT: Given that Pretty Ambitious is celebrating its first birthday (happy bday!), do you have any thoughts on the future of the label?
PA: THANK YOU! Our vision for the label is for it to one day be our full time jobs. We want to put out legendary records by bands that we love and respect. We also strive to have an office with central A/C, non-rusty water, and room for more than 2 desks.

SCOUT: And how will you celebrate PA's big bday?
PA: We are throwing ourselves an epic birthday party. We are transforming the Star Bar into a drive in movie theatre. The back parking lot will feature 60’s monster movies and food trucks. Plus, there will be bands (abby gogo, Lucy Dreams, Predator, Husseins, Manray, Wymyns Prysyn, The Hymens +more) and 4 DJs playing inside, all night long. We have 60’s formula Schlitz sponsoring as well as Marlboro, Purge ATL and Team Luis. It’s going to be our biggest blow out yet. Doors are at 5:30, movies at sundown. Check out the Facebook invite for more details.

SCOUT: Any wisdom or musings on the state of the Atlanta music scene?
KERRY: This town is known around the world now as a place where great music is cultivated. I wouldn’t want to be anywhere else in the world right now putting out records. It says a lot about a place when the standard 30 CDs I listen to in my car are 80% Atlanta bands, old and new. I think the previous generation set the bar pretty high for what can come out of here. This new generation that was heavily influenced by what came before is doing a fine job of keeping that reputation alive. I am just glad I get to be a part of it as an enthusiast as well as a cohort.
MARCELA: The Atlanta music scene seems to change and evolve cyclically. Things move quickly here but they also always come back around. Some bands want to get out and see the world and some are fine with just playing and recording and that’s totally fine. I think it really says something about your passion and motivation when your band is able to get out of the shuffle. That’s definitely something worth congratulating.

SCOUT: Favorites time: favorite place in ATL to see a show? Favorite spot to hit after a show? Favorite restaurant to refuel after a long night of show-going?
KERRY: I love a good house show! After a show we usually go to Star Bar or the 529 patio until they kick us out. Refueling is mostly done at McDonald's on Ponce. Cheap food at 5am is hard to find.
MARCELA: Suburban Lanes is a fun Tuesday night venue these days. You can’t go wrong with cheap bowling, cheap beer and a show. Fav restaurant used to be Majestic until that line got so long. One time there were ninjas handing out paper throwing stars. It was weird…

SCOUT: How about some of your favorite ATL music-related landmarks, people, places?
MARCELA: The Highland Inn, The Clermont, Drive Invasion, Mark from Die Slaughterhaus
KERRY: Criminal Records, Aurora, Stephanie Luke, The Mess-Around, the old Wells Street warehouse.

SCOUT: And your favorite "curious find(s)" in Atlanta?
KERRY: The Highland Row Antiques store. I have scored some epic stuff in there for very little.
Marcela: The Clothing Warehouse monthly warehouse sales in East Point. Manuel's. Oakland Cemetery. CHURCH. The Plaza Theatre. Starlight 6 Drive-In.

SCOUT: Finally, time for a shameless plug: tell our readers where they can learn more about y'all.
PA: We got it all!
PrettyAmbitiousRecords.com,
Twitter: @ambitiousatl,
Pretty Ambitious on Facebook
prettyambitiousrecords.tumblr.com

Look, Up In The Sky!

Thu, 11 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0400

It's a bird! It's a plane! It's... oh, it's just another advertisement for half-priced strip club cover. Oh well. After living in the city for a while, all the billboards and advertisements kind of blur out of one's vision (except those ungodly ultra-bright displays on the connector that burn with the light of a million torches. How are those things even legal? Anyways.) Besides those, though, we're all so pummeled with advertising that rarely does a billboard actually cause one to stop and think.

Until...

...this past Monday, when a curious display made its way onto a Buckhead billboard. And no, it isn't yet another covert marketing technique by a sneaky corporation. This one is from one of Atlanta's own local artists, Jason Parker, who's using his day in the advertising sun to turn the traditional billboard messaging on its head. He describes it as a public art project and exhibition. "I intend it as a polite, discordant and humorous interruption of the incessant flood of commercial messaging," Jason writes, "and a way to take advantage of a huge opportunity for artists to reach an audience outside of galleries."

"In among the advertising messages, these images don't ask anything of the viewer, but address passersby directly with simple messages: "Yes," "Please," "Thank You," "You Are Welcome." There's no website to visit, no number to call, nothing to buy," says Jason. Which means, refreshingly, no "How's your bikini body?" questions leading to lipo or anything of the sort.

Probably the first and last time I'd ever readily say this, but: It's a billboard we could get used to seeing. To that, we say thank you. We dig it.

See the first Amazing Stranger billboard heading south on Peachtree between Shadowlawn and Mathieson, and check out the project online at AmazingStranger.com.

Burnaway Presents: Talking With Gaia, Living Walls Artist

Wed, 10 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0400

This week, a pretty fantastic (and culturally important!) event descends upon Atlanta, encouraging things like "dialogue" and "collaboration" and even "ideas." We love all of those things, especially as they pertain to the arts in our lovely city. Living Walls exists to urge the idea-trading and discussion-having around street art, framed in a... wait, wait, we're going to give it all away. Why not have one of the Living Walls artists tell us a little about it? Jeremy Abernathy, founder and gentleman-in-charge of Burnaway, got to talk with Gaia, one of the 36 artists in town for the event. Jeremy spoke with Gaia about street art and Living Walls for AM 1690's Voice of the Arts, which broadcasts in Atlanta every Tuesday between 8-8:30 a.m. and 6-6:30 p.m.

Calling in from Baltimore, Maryland, the street artist known as Gaia discusses his work with Jeremy Abernathy. (Click here for more photographs at Gaia’s website.) Detailed and dynamic, the conversation comes just in time for Living Walls: The City Speaks, the second annual, international conference on street art and urbanism that returns to Atlanta with events throughout the weekend. Gaia will appear this Saturday, August 13, 2011, as a keynote speaker during the Living Walls Lecture Series at the Museum of Contemporary Art of Georgia (MOCA GA), as well as the main event at The Goat Farm beginning at 8PM.

Listen to the interview here, and, of course, check out the schedule for Living Walls here. The weekend includes a lecture series at MoCA GA, film screenings, gallery exhibitions, and the main event at the Goat Farm on Saturday evening.

Win A Prize If You Recognize

Wed, 10 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0400

How well do you know your city? Give us your best guess on this mystery location and we'll send a sweet, sweet prize to one lucky winner.

Reply to the Scoutmob daily email with your answer, or hit us up through Twitter or Facebook.

Last week’s answer: Casey Brown
Last week's winner: Azar's Package Store

50% Off at Cantina Taqueria & Tequila Bar

Wed, 10 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0400

The Scoop: This snazzy joint overlooking Piedmont in the Terminus building takes everything we know and love about Mexican food and dials it up a notch, Buckhead-style. The atmosphere is still low-key and fun, but the interior is jaw-droppingly gorgeous and the bar scene is a tad more hopping than your average El Sombrero. The simple ingredients are still there (tacos, cold margaritas, and plenty of tequila to go around), but Cantina puts a hip spin on it in their sexy, spacious dining room and funky decor. That decor includes a haul of chili peppers dangling from the bar, tin hacienda lanterns, and a larger-than-life señora sculpture dancing the night away. She must have enjoyed Cantina's extensive tequila selection.

Scout Notes: The outdoor patio at Cantina might just be one of the best spots in Buckhead to sip a margarita and nosh on the taqueria's signature Holy Guacamole post-workday and/or pre-night out. But the indoor seating area is equally happening, with a lively bar fueled by Cantina's impressive tequila collection. Because it would be ill-advised to enjoy that selection without a little lining, we recommend snacking on some famous guac or a Trailer Park taco. What, you've never heard of that before? Well, Cantina's menu features some good ol' fashioned favorites, like queso, enchiladas, and quesadillas. But the taqueria also has a couple not-so-traditional items.

That Trailer Park taco is a delightfully deep-fried concoction starring fried chicken and queso blanco. Then there's the Hot Pink taco, an interesting take on fusion with spicy salmon, pickled pink onion, avocado and spicy slaw. If you're seriously hungry, how about a challenge? Specifically, the Big Chihuahua challenge, which requires downing a hulking 5-pound monster of a burrito in under an hour. For those who'd prefer to keep their pants buttons fastened, might want to stay away from that and stick to the taco menu -- between the Baja fish taco, the grilled veggie version, and the Yucatan grilled shrimp concoction, there's a little something for each and every taste bud. Whether you decide to enjoy it all from your perch at the playful bar or in a secluded, slatted-wood booth is up to you. Just knock it back with one of Cantina's half-dozen margarita varieties (Kickin', Screamin', or Sinless?) and you'll be ready to do that tequila happy dance right alongside the señora herself.

Menu Highlights:
Holy Guacamole, $9
Plate de Barbacoa, $16
Green Chile Chicken Enchiladas, $14
Trailer Park Taco, $3.50
Huevos Rancheros Taco, $4.25
Yucatan Grilled Shrimp Taco, $5

Hours:
Monday & Tuesday, 11:30 a.m. - 10 p.m.
Wednesday & Thursday, 11:30 a.m. - 11 p.m. (Kitchen closes at 10 p.m.)
Friday & Saturday, 11:30 a.m. - 12 a.m. (Kitchen closes at 11 p.m.)
Sunday, 12 p.m. - 9:30 p.m.

Rich and Famous and Not In L.A.

Tue, 09 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0400

Word on the street is that those of the celebrity persuasion have infiltrated our city with their moving pictures and their talkies and their Juicy Couture sweatpants. Now, this is unconfirmed, but we've heard that this species also requires sustenance in order to survive: preferably, served on a silver platter and with lots of antioxidants. We do offer southern hospitality to all, so we asked you: where would you recommend our new fancy-sweatpantsed neighbors go to dine while in Atlanta?

OUR SCOUT SAYS:

They look skinny. Send 'em to Ann's Snack Shack. She'll fill them up, and while they don't have coat check, you can easily check a Hollywood attitude at the door at no cost!

YOU SAYS:

"Vortex L5P"
- Stormy Piazza

"Bacchanalia!"
- Casey Byrd

"Hankook Taqueria. Manuels Tavern. Carroll St Cafe. Savage Pizza. Ann's Snack Shack. Holeman and Finch. West Egg. Super Pan."
- Mela Caltabiano

"Iberian Pig, Antico Pizza, JCT Kitchen, Fox Bros BBQ, Chops, Bacchanalia, Canoe, Food Truck Thursdays @ Buckhead Theatre, Valenza."
- Michael Rock

"Rathburn's Steak, Leon's, Pyng Ho's"
- Bill McCollum

"Eats @ Canoe, Aria, and Lobster Bar. Drinks @ TOP FLR and H+F."
- Lauren Berger

"Agave, Holy Taco, Top FLR, Fox Bros, Nick's to go"
- Scott Wrighter

"Holy Taco, Eats, Mary Macs! Woodfire Grill! Local 3, Holeman and Finch, Bacchanalia, Aria, Nava, Kyma!"
- Jillian J. Harber

"Art of Touch Massage."
- Sara Nesselbush

NEXT WEEK'S WHAT SAY YOU:

What do you want to wear to Dragon Con?

So it sounds like cosplay gets a little spendy pretty quickly, but let's just say we have the funds to cover it. What crazy, ridiculous costume would you want to don for Atlanta's upcoming bastion of fantastical glory?

We're all ears! Hit us up on Facebook or Twitter @scoutmob with your answers. And remember, there's glory to be had for the people with the best answers, so don't hold back. Really, you're only hurting yourself.

Meet Cristina Martin, Founder and Wordsmith at Loose Change Magazine

Tue, 09 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0400

Fill in the blank: when I say "literary magazine," you say "______." Chances are, words like "stuffy," "academic," and possibly even "my eyes glaze over harder than when I'm in an 8 a.m. conference call" may have popped into your head. Leave it to WonderRoot and a cool group of talented Atlanta writers to change that perception. Loose Change is a quarterly lit mag chock full of creative writing, from poetry to screenplays to fiction (and artwork, too!). The publication is celebrating its one year anniversary this coming weekend at Kavarna in Decatur. Cristina, the founder and editor-in-chief of Loose Change, satiated our curiosity by telling us what exactly went into the birth of the mag, where she goes to get her creative juices flowing, and what the future of this awesome literary haven is.

SCOUT: Introduce yourself and tell our readers how they might know you.
CRISTINA: Hi! ::waves:: I’m Cristina. I am the Editor in Chief and founding member of Loose Change, WonderRoot’s literary magazine. You’ve probably seen me around at our events and workshops. Perhaps even shooting off emails and having meetings in various coffee shops around town.

SCOUT: What's the story behind Loose Change? How did it come to be, and how did you get involved?
CRISTINA: It started in a simple conversation between me and Chris Appleton. I was looking to start volunteering at WonderRoot , and we connected on both being Creative Writing majors. Without really thinking I asked if he had ever thought about having a literary magazine. His response was an enthusiastic yes and everything blossomed from there. It was never my intention to start Loose Change when I walked in the door, but it sort of found me and we’ve been together ever since!

SCOUT: Why does Atlanta need a literary magazine?
CRISTINA: Every artist deserves a place where they can showcase their craft. There are galleries all over town that display great works of painting, sculpture, and mix media. Writers deserve that same sort of platform, and literary magazines like Loose Change provide that space. It becomes a forum where people can go to review good work that reflects how people are being inspired, not to mention a place where people can go to get inspired themselves.

SCOUT: Some folks might see literary mags as stuffy, academic, and/or intimidating. What makes Loose Change different?
CRISTINA: Oh man, first of all I don’t think anyone on our staff knows how to be stuffy. We are a pretty lively bunch, which I think helps set the tone for everything else. From the beginning, Loose Change was not about being cooped up in a conference room sorting through content. We give submitters feedback on their work. We’ve had people write their first poem at our workshops. We get folks to scale up ladders to have readings on rooftops. At the end of the day, it’s all about providing a welcoming space for writers to grow and showing folks that yes, you can have your beer AND listen to poetry AND have a dance party afterwards because you are so darn excited about how that last piece blew your mind. Writing is fun and Loose Change is pretty committed to making sure everyone knows that.

SCOUT: Your 1-year anniversary is coming up soon. Any thoughts on the past, present, and future of Loose Change?
CRISTINA: It’s been amazing watching the magazine grow. We didn’t even have a name when this whole thing started. Now we’ve got 3 issues under our belt. The best part is everyone involved, from our website to our events coordinator, is a volunteer. They all keep the magazine afloat, despite whatever else they have going on in their lives and I am so thankful for each and every one of them. With our latest issue, and our first year of publication coming to a close, it feels like we have gotten our sea legs and a ready to go forth stronger than ever. We’ve got our Paper Anniversary coming up on August 12, which is going to be a great celebration. We also have more Rooftop Readings in the works, as well as a collaborative exhibit between photographers and writers that is going to be featured in the Elevate project downtown. Plus, we are now working on trying to get a print edition of the magazine out. So yeah, there’s no slowing down at this point.

SCOUT: Are there any other people, clubs, organizations, etc. in the Atlanta literary world that inspire you or are doing good work?
CRISTINA: Lobster Mobster, Kill Your Darlings, and Vouched ATL are all great organizations run by passionate people who love local lit. The Atlanta Writers Club also provides great resources to writers in the area. And what I love best about all of these organizations is their willingness to work together, cross promote projects, and bolster Atlanta writers. Charles McNair and Judson Mitcham are also two Georgia writers that have made an impact in my life and my writing. Charles will actually be reading at our Paper Anniversary, which I am just over the moon about.

SCOUT: What about inspirational creative people/organizations overall?
CRISTINA: BAZOOKALUCA is my go to podcast/blog for creative, pop culture-inspired laughs. Being in the kitchen with Brittany from Grace's Goodness always brings me a sense of calm and perspective. I have lately also really enjoyed all the great stories that The Feed Atlanta has been doing, highlighting local folks. And of course, all my WonderRoot brethren: Creative ReUse, WonderRoot TV, WonderRoot Open Mic and Stage. It’s a nice family to be a part of, and all the great work they do just pushes me to keep expanding the magazine.

SCOUT: If you could write a book about any person, place or thing in Atlanta, what would it be?
CRISTINA: I live in Reynoldstown and have always been fascinated by the history of the railroad there and how it impacted the growth of the city. I know there has to be a good story imbedded in those tracks somewhere that needs telling. Stay tuned.

SCOUT: Going off of that, what are some of your favorite "curious finds" in Atlanta?
CRISTINA: I just went to One Eared Stag a few weeks ago. Brilliant food, great atmosphere, and a lovely staff. It’s my new favorite nook. I also went out to Serenbe for the first time to watch a screening of “Grow”. Being out in that field with the stars overhead made me feel like a kid again. It a very special place, and everyone should make a trip out, at least to the playhouse.

SCOUT: Where do you go in Atlanta to soak up inspiration?
CRISTINA: Freedom Park, my porch during a thunderstorm, outdoor farmers markets, dinner and drinks with great friend. I really enjoy taking MARTA into downtown in the morning and watching the city open up during the ride. I also like all the random acts of street art that pop up around the city. Oh, and live music, anytime I can be around live music my creative juices start flowing.

SCOUT: Your favorite place in town to write?
CRISTINA: Depending on what I am working on, I enjoy the atmospheres of Condesa Coffee and Dr. Bombay’s. Both calm and welcoming. But, to be honest, the safe haven of my home is where I like to write the most. I can take time soaking up what I’ve seen and then lay it out without distractions, my favorite record playing in the background.

SCOUT: Finally, tell our readers where they can learn more about you and your work:
CRISTINA: You can visit our website and read through all of our issues at LooseChangeMagazine.org. You can also “like” us on Facebook and follow us on twitter (LooseChangeMag). WonderRoot.org always has the latest with what’s going on with the magazine and the organization as a whole. You can also come and visit with us at our events. We want to meet you so don’t be shy!

50% Off at Fearless Weirdos

Tue, 09 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0400

The Scoop: That scary lady on television is always telling her fashion underlings to look fierce, but we'd rather be fearless. And while we're not exactly at this level of bizarre, we've been told we can be a bit on the "weird" side. Well, this small shop in (where else?) Little Five Points is giving both the fearless and the weird a chance to let their (well-dressed) freak flag fly. In this place, weird is a great thing, and being fearless about it is easy when you're surrounded by dozens of seriously cool garments inspired by the streetwear of one of the most fashionable countries in the world. Being a weirdo ain't so bad, is it?

Scout Notes: We weirdos are a unique breed, albeit a high maintenance one: after all, we can't just shop anywhere. Nay, you're not going to nail that perfect level of eccentricity by hitting up your local Target. That's where Fearless Weirdos comes in, offering racks of garments that are a far cry from the Talbot's sale rack, to say the least. Founders Alva and Alton Glass opened the Little Five storefront about a year ago to give the fearless of Atlanta a taste of exactly how fearless Japanese fashionistas can be. It's inspired by the art, pop culture, and fashion of the famously avant-garde country, with edgy garments for both men and women.

Lest you think Fearless Weirdos is merely another boutique, just ask about the selection of Japanese sodas, candies, and other treats behind the counter. I've heard of high-end shops serving wine and champagne to customers, but I have to say, I'm sufficiently more intrigued by bright green melon sodas from Japan. Besides having some pretty unique apparel in the shop, Fearless Weirdos keeps things even more exclusive by only stocking a handful of each item, meaning the odds are that much lower of bumping into a fellow weirdo wearing the exact same yellow underthings as you. Go on, now, let that freak flag fly... fearlessly.

Store Highlights:
Couture Tee by Tristan
Jaymie Jeans
Gramercy

Store Hours:
Tuesday - Thursday, 12 p.m. - 8 p.m.
Friday - Saturday, 12 p.m. - 9 p.m.
Sunday, 12 p.m. - 7 p.m.

50% Off at Soul Vegetarian I (West End)

Mon, 08 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0400

The Scoop: Soul Vegetarian Restaurant South, in Atlanta's historic West End, calls their chefs “nutritionists” -- but a better word might be “miracle workers.” One bite of their jerk tofu will have you calling “Shenanigans!” and searching for whatever smoke-and-mirrors makes bean curd taste like that. We’re talking down-home eats made with so much heart they’d make Don Cornelius question the true power of soul, without any beef or butter in sight. If you’re looking to change a meat-eater's mind, seek the mastery of Soul Veg. And to the already converted past-carnivores, welcome home.

Scout Notes: Cheeseless mac and cheese sounds like sacrilege but Soul Veg's tastes like salvation. I was so blown away that the manager then challenged me to name my favorite non-vegan dishes, claiming that in the thirty years they had been open, they had perfected a substitute to nearly everything. “Philly cheesesteaks?” “Oh, they’re delicious. We make our French bread from scratch.” “Salmon croquettes?” “Just last week we whipped up a seaweed alternative that tastes even better.” “Country fried steak?” Ahmeets laughed. “You have no idea, brother.”

And you know what? I believe him. I don’t know if it was the nostalgic, southern-style cafeteria atmosphere, or the warm chuckles coming from the staff and the regulars, but I was totally drinking Soul Veg’s Kool-Aid. Their guiltless (but certainly not gutless) eats turned me into a true believer. This type of zen is without-a-doubt worthy of a pilgrimage to the West End. Scouts, I have seen the light, and its name is Cornbread.

Menu Highlights:
Country Fried Steak dinner, $13.95
Vegan Cacao Ice Cream, $2.25
Mac and Cheese, $3.40
Barbeque Tofu Sandwich, $5.60

Hours:
Monday - Thursday, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Friday - Saturday, 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.
Sunday, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., 5 p.m. to 10 p.m.

What To Do On The Weeknights, August 8-11

Mon, 08 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0400

Between the beer and the nearly-naked game show, this weeknight event list is shaping up to be as good as any Saturday night we've had in a while. Matter of fact, from here on out, any schoolnight that doesn't involve the aforementioned activities simply won't cut the mustard.

WE DON'T WANT TO MISS:

Monday Night Brew Launch
Monday, August 8, 5:30 p.m.
Hop City Craft Beer and Wine
It's a beer launch for Monday Night (pictured) this Monday night. Kinda like Who's On First, but with booze. The guys at Monday Night Brewery have been backyard-brewing their own ale for a while now, and as of Monday (night), it'll be available by the jugfull in Growlertown, Hop City. Both the Eye Patch Ale and the Drafty Kilt Scotch Ale will be growlered out to thirsty fans until the last drop is gone.
BeerStreetJournal.com

ALSO WORTH CHECKING OUT:

Grab My Junk: A Burlesque Game Show
Wednesday, August 10, 9 p.m.
The Five Spot
First of all, make sure you have SafeSearch turned on when you Google this event. Secondly, know that it's billed as "The World's Most Touching Game Show." Thirdly, we'll tell you that game show plus burlesque show stars a gentleman named Johnny Porkpie. Do you need a fourth reason to check this out? (PS: We're serious about the SafeSearch.)
Grab My Junk Burlesque and Game Show

City of Lions and Gods
Wednesday, August 10 and Thursday, August 11 (see more dates here)
The Goat Farm
A new theatrical venture at Atlanta's favorite kudzu-choked ruins, the Collective Project's play promises to take viewers into 1900's India. We're not one hundred percent sure what the play's plot involves, but keywords like "evocative," "intrigue," "deception, "magic," and "a world of candlelight and secrets" have been bandied about. Needless to say, we're intrigued.
Buy your tickets here.

Running With Tweezers Presents: Porta Via in Virginia-Highland

Mon, 08 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0400

Hungry for a sandwich? How about a roasted chicken sandwich with Meyer lemon relish and shaved fennel? Say you're craving something sweet: a peach almond crostata, mayhaps? These creations and more are tucked inside a sunny new storefront on North Highland, and Running With Tweezers was so taken with the cafe's fare and wares, she shared her experience (and a handful of lovely photographs) with us. Read below to find out where this magical place is and see some mouthwatering visual aids:

Sunbeams streaming in through shop windows onto shelves of tomato sauce, Arborio rice, and pesto. The wafting smell of garlicky Porchetta (slow roasted pork for those who haven't tried it yet) stacked high on freshly baked bread. Leisurely lunches of fresh figs and cheese at distressed wood communal tables. This scene sounds as though I'm describing a recent travel adventure through Italy. Instead, I'm waxing poetic about the new Bella Cucina Porta Via store in the heart of Virginia-Highlands right here in Atlanta.

But wait, there's more! Head over to Running With Tweezers to see Tami's photographs. After that, tell us how long it takes you to zip over to N. Highland for a Death By Chocolate cookie. We give it half an hour.

50% Off at Authentique Home

Sun, 07 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0400

The Scoop: Let's face it: for some (most?) of us, decorating your home without defaulting to weirdly-shaped knick-knacks from Ikea is hard. "Shabby chic" is exactly one eyelet pillow away from "Aunt Bea's parlor," and if done overzealously, that whole industrial thing can quickly turn a living situation into something resembling an auto parts warehouse. If only someone knew how to walk that very fine line! If only. Well, our If Onlys seem to have been answered in the form of this lovely little shop in Inman Park, which walks both of those fine lines with the finesse of an alpine ibex. Head to the little brick storefront caddycorner to Pure, and prepare to be enlightened (and to set your Ikea catalogs aflame). Out with the new disposable furniture... and in with the old.

Scout Notes: A little industrial (vintage ladders and antique Army footlockers), a little French market (printed throw pillows and luxury candles), and a whole lot of chic. Authentique Home is stocked to its lofty ceiling with refurbished antiques, decorative knick-knacks, and everything you'd need to create that Paris-meets-barnyard vibe. "All it takes is one or two really unique pieces in a room to give your home personality," explains Candi, who owns the shop and gives the vintage pieces their makeovers. In other words, those particle board Ikea bookshelves aren't exactly going to make your apartment stand out. The one-of-a-kind pieces that Candi finds, however, will—especially after she revisions them with a fresh coat of paint and some snazzy additions.

Authentique is a bit of a hybrid—it's certainly not your ramshackle vintage emporium, but it's also not a stuffy, high-end showroom. And most of that is thanks to Candi's design inspirations, which include both an industrial barnyard aesthetic and the best of Paris flea markets. "I love finding items that once had a use and turning them into something beautiful," she explains, showing me an old metal utility cart that was transformed into a bar hip enough for any loft. The shop includes everything from giant plaster busts to once-rickety wooden trunks given the all-star treatment by Candi, with high-end candles and quirky finds (antique binoculars, anyone?) strewn about. And of course, there's Hattie, the doe-eyed brown pup who lounges in the doorway of the shop, gazing and wagging at passersby. Nay, this isn't your Aunt Bea's stuffy antiques emporium. Just a refreshingly eyelet-free shop with plenty of goods for that hip, Parisian flat slash urban loft of yours.

Store Hours:
Sunday, 12 p.m. - 6 p.m.
Wednesday - Saturday, 11 a.m. - 7 p.m.

50% Off at Reflections Eyecare, Contact Lenses & Glasses

Sat, 06 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0400

The Scoop: We hope you're feeling regal. Even if you're not, the team at Reflections have made it their goal to make you feel like it. "We want to treat everyone like a king," says Mark, and in his polished South African accent, it's easy to believe. But there's no need to ride in on a white horse or polish up your crown in order to get some stylin' frames, thanks to the range of pricetags on Reflection's shelves. You won't find any Dollar Store cheapies here, but you also don't have to shell out your rent money on your eyewear (though you certainly can, if that's what you're into). With recognizable names like Tory Burch, Ray-Ban, and more, you're well on your way to four eyed fame.

Scout Notes: Hipster frames from L.A. Fashionable, funky sunnies from Tory Burch and likeminded brands. Even glamorous shades from super-exclusive labels (you'll just have to go in to find out who): Reflections has it all. And they have more than just glasses, too: the Town Brookhaven optometrist shop also includes state-of-the-art 3D eye exam equipment, along with a one-year warranty on prescription glasses with no extra cost. And for likeminded people who have a small graveyard of eyeglass parts at the bottom of their bags, you'll understand exactly why this is a good thing.

In all seriousness, Reflections is a perfect shop for eyewear shopping, an act that can often be quite overwhelming -- and rightly so. After all, it's an accessory you're wearing on your face. We can think of few other items that are featured so prominently on one's countenance, so it makes sense to be rather persnickety in the process. And thanks to their emphasis on service, Reflections is a fine place to do just that. You can spend your time vogueing in the mirror with designer sunglasses, doing your best Olympic athlete impersonation in the sportier shades, or practicing your 1960's intellectual look with some hornrims. Either way, there are plenty of looks (and personalities) to try on at Reflections. And anyway, who says you have to pick just one?

Store Highlights:
Oakley
Prada
Ray-Ban
OGA
Tory Burch

Hours:
Monday - Friday, 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Saturday, 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.

What To Do This Weekend, August 5-7

Fri, 05 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0400

Our weekend plans consisted of winding up the ol' phonograph player and breaking out the parlor games, until we stumbled upon the metric oodle of diversions taking place outside the confines of home this weekend. Indeed, there's plenty of happenings to tear us away from another rousing game of "Pass the Slipper" in our fine town this weekend. Check out where we'll be eating, dancing, carousing, and skirmishing below:

WE DON'T WANT TO MISS:

Beep Beep Gallery Anniversary Party
Saturday, August 6, 9 p.m.
Highland Inn
First of all, don't be that scallawag who's invited to the wedding but only shows up for cake and booze at the reception: hit up Ponce Crush beforehand and check out the opening of Beep Beep's latest show, "Me/We," as well as the happenings at neighbor galleries Youngblood and Kibbee. Then you can roll up to the Highland Inn shindig celebrating five years of Beep Beep, complete with live music (Carnivores, Kid Pyramid, El Fossil), DJs, and general revelry/tailfeather-shaking.
Beep Beep Gallery

ALSO WORTH CHECKING OUT:

PushStart Kitchen Dinner
Friday, August 5, and Saturday, August 6
The Goat Farm
One part speakeasy, one part old-fashioned supper club, served with a dash of artistic flair: that's PushStart Kitchen. This weekend, they've decided to double up with suppers on Friday and Saturday night, each with vegetarian menus that sound downright divine. Chilled peach soup, anyone? It's invite-only, so let the scramble begin -- sign up for the mailing list here.

Art League Atlanta: Friday Night Art Fight (pictured)
Friday, August 5, 10 p.m.
The Shelter
What, you've never seen artists throw down? Oh, they can caterwaul with the best of them. See it for yourself on Friday night at the Shelter, where Art League Atlanta presents a fracas between artists Dagny Phillips-Stumberger, Saye Gbatu, and Meg Golding. According to ALA, there will also be bodypainting, so... there's that.
Event Info

DING DING! MEET-A-SCOUT BONUS ROUND (NERDS ONLY, PLEASE)

ReMIX South Developer Conference
Saturday, August 6, All Day
Marriott Perimeter Center
If UX tickles your fancy or mobile app development gets your goose a-honking, then boy, do we have the Saturday tryst of trysts for you. The ReMIX South conference promises to Bring The Awesome for designers and developers, replete with four tracks: UX, web, mobile and tablet, and Kinect. The bonus part? You'll get to see our mustachio'd master of code, our don of development, our very own Loren Norman speak the good truth. And you get a discount to bask in his hirsute glory. Enter code SCTMB on ReMIX's EventBright page and you're well on your way to world domination, nerd-style.

50% Off at OMG Taco

Fri, 05 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0400

The Scoop: There are tacos. There are street food tacos. And then there are street food-style Korean tacos (in a restaurant) that are juicy and flavorful enough to cause one to invoke the name of a higher power, as OMG Taco's name references. But in this case, that "G" divinity is gogi, the tender Korean beef that makes a cameo in this brick-and-mortar food truck's fare. Korean meets Mexican, food truck meets restaurant, and oh em gogi, it's tasty. OMG Taco is kinda like a food truck in a restaurant, combining simple, casual food cart fare with the general trappings of an indoor space (air conditioner! Beer! Napkins!). Best of all, unlike those wiley trucks motoring about town, you'll always know where to find OMG—and everyone knows that reliability is one of the most important qualities in your local Korean taco provider.

Scout Notes: After many a parking ticket acquired from chasing down his favorite food trucks, AJ decided that he loved food and casual street fare so much, he'd make his own darn place to eat: a truck-inspired permanent restaurant, which takes the best of both worlds between street carts and dine-in eateries. OMG Taco is designed to feel like a food truck and taste like the yummy snacks that come out of them, but with the oft-overlooked perks of an actual restaurant—such as, you know, napkins, places to sit, a roof over one's head, and so on. There's even a dim, cool little lounge area on the other side of the restaurant, complete with a full bar. Now, we love our food trucks, but show me a food cart that comes with liquor and barstools and I'll show you... well, OMG Taco, I suppose.

"Fusion" is a word that normally frightens me when used to describe a restaurant's menu: too many Hula Burgers and Mexican lasagnas have been unnecessarily invented in its name. But the Korean taco is a cultural combination I can get behind. Swapping out plain ol' ground beef for juicy, exploding-with-flavor Korean gogi, the Korean taco is a glorious harmony of flavors. Cilantro, meet sesame seeds; lime, meet caramelized kimchi; street food, meet air conditioning. Fusion at its best, no bizarre combos required.

Menu Highlights:
Short-Rib Taco, $2
OMG Fish Taco, $5
Bi Bim Bap, $6.50
Kimchi Fries, $5

Hours:
Sunday - Thursday, 12 p.m. - 12 a.m.
Friday - Saturday, 12 p.m. - 2 a.m.

Caption This! Weekend Photo Fun

Fri, 05 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0400

Give us your best witty caption to go with this extra curious pic on Twitter or Facebook.

We'll post some of our favorites to this here website.

As for this interesting image from last week, here are some of the caption contributions:

OUR FAVORITE:

"Is that a Trance Am?" - Randy Osborne

HONORABLE MENTIONS:

"Also known as Midtown at 5:00 on a Friday."
- Kimberly Williams

"Introducing the winner of the Georgia License Plate Design Contest!"
- Christy Moore

"Finally a good excuse why women are bad drivers..."
- Megan Williamson

"Attempt "L". A through K didn't fare so well."
- Julia Kalinoglou

"Having been caught on film, it was obvious to the judge that the defendant was guilty of driving under the influence."
- David Hinderer

"You do NOT have any Grey Poupon."
- @escapenova

"Elmer, at 76 years old, was Mayberry's oldest prostitute...This was his first "Jane" in 50 years!!"
- Andrew Jackson

"These are not the droids you are looking for."
- Joey Shaughnessy"

Meet Angel Poventud, Beatific Force of Good

Thu, 04 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0400

Atlanta has our very own Angel, and he spreads happiness wherever he goes. Whether you know him from his multitude of projects, his zooming around Piedmont Park on rollerblades, or his trademark green dress and beaming smile, you've probably seen him around. Angel's made a lot happen in Atlanta, and it's not stopping any time soon. He's working to make Atlanta a better, more tree-filled, walkable place through his work with projects like Trees Atlanta, the Beltline, and more... but we won't give it all away. Find out what makes him so angelic (and where you can, Captain Planet-esque, join forces with like-minded folks to make ATL more beautiful):

SCOUT: How might people know you?
ANGEL: There are a few ways that people might know who I am. I'm the guy that rollerblades in Piedmont Park through the water bottles, the guy that plants trees with Trees Atlanta, I'm the guy that bikes all over the city, that guy that volunteers with the BeltLine and I'm probably that guy that wears the green dress around the city while biking, skating or just hanging out.

SCOUT: Where did you start in ATL, and how did it lead to what all you are doing today?
ANGEL: I started out by working at the airport as a baggage handler for USAirways, stopping through Atlanta and Piedmont Park everyday on my way home to Smyrna back when I first got here 13 years ago. I went to a Trees Atlanta tree sale 12 years ago, that's how that got started. I lived in a historic building that was torn down next to Piedmont Park 7 years ago, and that really got me going. I needed to know what was happening around me.

SCOUT: Tell me all the projects you’ve made happen in Atlanta.
ANGEL: I work a lot with other people, so I don't think I can take credit for any one thing. It's all a collaboration with people, groups, and the greater community. I will say that I had a big part in Artichoke Bliss, a failed (not the right word to use because a lot of trees were planted on the lot and in the surrounding neighborhood that are still there and growing) community garden in the MLK Jr District, Art on the BeltLine, the BeltLine signs on telephone poles all around the city. There are some other projects taking off but I just feel like a part of them so I can't take any credit for them.

SCOUT: Activists that inspire you?
ANGEL: Great question. It's our small business owners. So much passion and so much at risk. Non-violence, Dr. MLK Jr, Congressman John Lewis

SCOUT: What's the coolest project/gig you have done (or are doing) in ATL?
ANGEL: Without a doubt it's been getting people to come outside and walk all around the city on the BeltLine. What started out as just a few people 2 years ago has turned into over a thousand so far this year alone.

SCOUT: Where in ATL do you go to get new ideas or find inspiration?
ANGEL: All over. I use every neighborhood, every coffee shop. I also get a lot of ideas while sitting on my train traveling between Atlanta, Athens and Gainesville.

SCOUT: Where do you go to unwind with a good drink and good company?
ANGEL: I have a few favorites, Octane coffee shop and bar is on way to and from work. Stop there just about every day. The corner of N Highland and North, King of Pops. Great people and great pops. Church, the bar. My bike.

SCOUT: Your favorite “curious find” in Atlanta?
ANGEL: The South Fork Conservancy and the great work they are doing. We have this amazing system of creeks that are totally neglected right now, reminds me of the BeltLine 2 or 3 years ago. There is a lot of energy going into making this Atlanta's next frontier of Green Space. It connects to the BeltLine and runs all the way out to Decatur. I think everyone needs to check it out and start volunteering so that we can return this beautiful piece of nature right in our back yards back to it natural state.

SCOUT: Another local Atlantan that inspires you or your work?
ANGEL: Sally Sears of the South Fork Conservancy. She has more energy than I do and almost seems more positive. I didn't think that was possible.

SCOUT: Where do you see Atlanta going in the next 5 years?
ANGEL: More trees, more bikes, more public art, better transit, cleaner air. I'm a pretty optimistic guy.

SCOUT: What are you currently working on?
ANGEL: The advocacy work that I do with the BeltLine is all encompassing. Transit, trees, parks, public art, homelessness, bikes, trails, volunteering. It really represents all thats going make our city greater and I probably volunteer 20 to 30 hours a week on the project. I'm not kidding.

SCOUT: Finally, throw out a shameless plug of where people can get the goods.
ANGEL: Concrete Jungle. Those guys are teaching me to look for the hidden treasures all around our neighborhoods. Right in our back yards. Yesterday alone I found a fig and apple tree right on the BeltLine. Free figs and apples, in Atlanta, on public land. Amazing. We all need to be behind the great work that Concrete Jungle is doing. It can only get bigger and better.

Cool Stuff Got Kickstarted, Thanks to You

Thu, 04 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0400

A couple of weeks ago, we were seriously diggin' on the ATL-based creativity floating around on Kickstarter. Well! Looks like other people in Atlanta dig that, too. Because all those cool projects we saw—the rain boots, the edible Goodness, the robots and ice cream iPad game—have all been funded recently. Sing it with me now: we are the champions, my friends.

Burton and Becca Posey of Addo Games finished their campaign just under the wire, raising their final $4,000 in the last few hours to make Robots Love Ice Cream a reality. Yup, thanks to their backers, you'll soon be able to defend the galaxy from sugar-crazed bots on your iPad, which is sure to make Angry Birds the mobile game equivalent of checkers or Victorian charades. Boring! Robots are so much cooler.

Brittany Grace Shiver, who you may recall from our Local Mug interview, finished up on Tuesday, two days before her deadline. Grace's Goodness will now be spread around Atlanta thanks to the 160+ people who backed the idea on Kickstarter (check out the sweet preview of the Goodness truck here.

That James Bond dance project? Funded. Those patterned rainboots with secret messages squirreled away inside? Funded. That touring erotic literature collective? Funded (and coming to a Hotlanta near you!).

We dig seeing our fellow locals supporting their fellow artists. And we're excited to dig the creative fruits of the Kickstartees' labor. So take a gander around the current projects, and keep an eye out for the future ones. Because we know we aren't the only ones excited about wearing patterned rain boots while eating tasty creations out of a jar and zapping robots on our iPad... while listening to erotic literature. Right?

50% Off at Joffrey's Cafe & Restaurant (Hapeville)

Thu, 04 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0400

The Scoop: One part busy lunch depot, one part early-morning coffee stop, with a dash of after-work watering hole and a sprinkle of European wine bar. Oh, and hookah, too. Yup, Joffrey's Cafe seems to be doing their motto—"more than a coffee shop"—justice. Thanks to their extensive menu, their locally sourced goods, and their golden combination of coffee bar + full bar, Joffrey's is making this oft-unexplored area worth investigating for us intowners. And as for the Hapevillians working close to Joffrey's, we ask you: why haven't you told us about this place before?

Scout Notes: The scouting life is all about exploring. And while I feel relatively confident in my intown wandering and even in my excursions north of the perimeter, I do have a confession: the ITP area south of I-20 is a bit of a blur to me. My mental map of College Park, East Point, and Hapeville is about as accurate as my geographic idea of the Midwest -- some nebulous shapes, and an airport... somewhere in there. Sounds like a perfect excuse to explore the area to me -- and Joffrey's is a perfect place to start. Holding it down in Hapeville (Hape-town Down? The Hape-V-L?) for four years, the cafe/bar/restaurant/lounge has been a favorite among area locals, travelers, and airport employees. And when you walk in (and see the sandwich, coffee, and liquor bars all at once), it's easy to see why they appeal to such a broad swath of people.

Drop in during the early hours, and you'll see folks sipping on coffee, nibbling the fresh pastries, and reading the paper or tapping away on laptops. Join the lunch crowd for freshly made smoothies, salads and sandwiches (the jerk chicken sammie is a local favorite). As day turns to evening, more visitors belly up to the full bar, perpendicular to the coffee bar, for a glass of wine and a cheese sampler or a draught beer to wash down those made-from-scratch turkey meatball sliders. Finish it all off with dessert (a scoop of ice cream... or three) and, if you're feeling particularly mellow, a hookah. Yup, this is one of the rare places where you could truly spend your entire day (and night?) without getting bored. Especially since, unlike some chain coffee shops, Joffrey's does take pride in the food they're serving. Locally baked bread for sandwiches is delivered fresh each morning; the meatballs on those sliders are made from scratch in-house; the pastries and even the ice cream are made locally. So, in my expedition down to what I now will refer to as The Hape-V-L, I was lucky to discover something cool about this area besides being the birthplace of Jeff Foxworthy and the site of the first-ever Chick-fil-A dwarf house. Admittedly, those are no small feats, but I'd rather have ice cream and beer at Joffrey's.

Menu Highlights:
Cup o' Coffee, $1.59 - $2.43
Caramel Macchiato, $3.50 - $4.53
Sourdough French Toast, $5.95
Jerk Chicken Sandwich, $6.95
Turkey Meatball Sliders, $5.95
Fresh Fruit Smoothies, $4.99
Ice Cream, $2.49 (1 scoop) - $4.25 (3 scoops)

Hours:
Monday - Friday, 7 a.m. - 10:30 p.m.
Saturday and Sunday, 8 a.m. - 10:30 p.m.

50% Off at Queen of Sheba Ethiopian Restaurant

Wed, 03 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0400

The Scoop: Inner children rejoice! Here’s your chance to eat with your hands in public without your mom scolding you or the local authorities telling you to “move along". Queen of Sheba encourages playing with your food, and employs a staff so friendly they’ll melt away any neuroses you didn’t leave at the door (you double dipped the tibs!). Mix that with the swanky vibe of their newly renovated cocktail lounge and you’ve got an experience that’s far more date-worthy than many Ethiopian joints. (Hot Tip: Low-lighting hides lentil stains.)

Scout Notes: There’s a great balance to this place. The dining room and lounge area have a classiness to them, but the vibe is low-key, with tables plastered in yellowing photographs. The portions are huge, but the minute details of each dish hold up under scrutiny, due to Sheba’s focus on fresh ingredients. And although Atlanta is lucky to have a handful of truly tasty authentic Ethopian restaurants, few of them have this kind of harmony between traditional décor and romantic ambiance. This intimate way of dining takes on new meaning when you have a live jazz band and warm candle lighting. Oh, and tej. Lots and lots of tej.

If you plan on taking the MARTA to Queen of Sheba, you should know that the “eating-with-your-hands” rule does not apply to leftovers on the ride back. I know that the asa tibs is addictive, but that doesn’t mean you have to subject the train to your weirdly passionate gorging. In fact, it’s probably best if you just bring a big party and rule out the possibility of taking anything home, because that doggybag isn’t destined to survive the journey.

Menu Highlights:
Special Combo for 5, $49.99
Asa Tibs, $13.50
Sheba’s Kitfo, $11.95

Hours:
Monday - Sunday, 11 a.m. - 12 a.m.

Events:
Live Jazz: Thursday, 8 p.m.-12 p.m.

Burnaway Presents: Your Cultural To-Do List This Week

Wed, 03 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0400

From sleek design to Southern pottery, from the big fancy High to a quiet little gallery in Sandy Springs, there's an art event to visit every day this week, and Burnaway is here to tell us about it. Feel like sipping a cocktail and checking out the future of bathroom design? MoDA's where it's at. Leaning a little more towards checking out the indie cred of a string of small but awesome galleries? Hit up Ponce Crush this Saturday. No matter your medium, movement, or venue of choice, Burnaway's got your to-do list to get you out and about in Atlanta's art scene this week.

TUESDAY, AUGUST 2
Last Day to See: Works on Paper/ Group Exhibition
Poem 88 / Regular Hours: 12Noon-6PM

THURSDAY, AUGUST 4

Thursday Nights at the High: Half-Priced Tickets
High Museum of Art / Deal Valid for: 4-8PM

Emerging Artists 2011 / Group Exhibition
Spruill Gallery / Opening Reception: 6-9PM

Drink in Design
Museum of Design Atlanta / 6-8PM

FRIDAY, AUGUST 5

Perpetual Assembly / Three Concurrent Exhibitions
Whitespace Gallery / Opening Reception: 7-10PM

Friday Fright Night: The Seventh Continent / Film Screening
{Poem 88} / 8PM

SATURDAY, AUGUST 6

Fulton County Free Saturday
High Museum of Art / Free Admission for Fulton Residents with ID: 10AM-5PM

Bank of America’s “Museums on Us” Program
High Museum of Art / Free Admission with Bank of America Card: 10AM-5PM

Last day to see: Impaired Perceptions / Brian Charles Steel
Jennifer Schwartz Gallery / Regular Hours: 11AM-5PM

Gather Atlanta / Presented by BURNAWAY, MINT, ThoughtMarker & WonderRoot (pictured)
Savannah College of Art & Design-Atlanta, Events Space, 4th Floor,
Building C / $: Free / 3-7PM

The Summer Swan Invitational: Contemporary Southern Pottery and Handmade Objects
Swan Coach House Gallery / Regular Hours: 10AM-4PM

Last Day to See: Still & My Mother Was an Alien and I’m an Escape Artist
/ Amber Boardman & Leslie Kneisel
Marcia Wood Gallery / Regular Hours: 11AM-6PM

Ponce Crush Gallery Stroll
Beep Beep Gallery, Kibbee Gallery & Young Blood Gallery / 7-10PM

Insider’s Perspective / Works by Living Walls Artists
Kibbee Gallery / 6-10PM

Opening Doors / Anniversary Show for Southern Starr Tattoo
Young Blood Gallery / Opening Reception: 7-10PM

ME WE / Group Exhibition
Beep Beep Gallery / Opening Reception: 7-10PM

Radcliffe Bailey Film Series: Strange Fruit
Rich Theatre at High Museum of Art / 8PM

Beep Beep Gallery’s 5 Year Anniversary Party
Highland Inn Ballroom / $7 or free if you attend Ponce Crush / 8PM-2AM

SUNDAY, AUGUST 7

Bank of America’s “Museums on Us” Program
High Museum of Art / Free Admission with Bank of America Card: 12Noon-5PM

ONGOING

Summer Art Supply Drive / The Creatives Project
Red Collection Bins at Participating Locations / Through August 31, 2011

Win A Prize If You Recognize

Wed, 03 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0400

50% Off at Terrace on Peachtree

Tue, 02 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0400

The Scoop: We all know and love downtown as a bustling epicenter of business, tourism, speeding taxis, and fanny packs. And above all that craziness is Terrace, the quiet respite tucked away inside the Ellis Hotel. This place is smack-dab in the middle of downtown, but just removed enough to feel like a hideaway. The ingredients are local, the dishes are regionally inspired, and the second-story patio overlooks Peachtree Street, making for quite the chic outdoor destination for cocktail-sipping (and ample people-watching). Nope, this isn't your average stop for the hungry tourist. Which is fine, because we're happy to keep this hidden oasis to ourselves.

Scout Notes: With restaurants adapting the "farm to table" moniker left and right, it's hard to tell who's for real and who's fronting. Even bags of potato chips are sporting the trend. (Hey, those taters came from a farm, and now they're on your table... that counts, right?) But then, there's Terrace, which doesn't just talk the talk. A quick glance at their menu will show you that, besides having creative and delicious dishes, the restaurant values locally grown produce and regional goods: there's a whole roster to show you exactly where your food came from. There were the names I recognized -- Springer Mountain chicken, Niman Ranch pork, H&F bread, High Road ice cream, Sweet Grass cheese. But Terrace is repping the little guys hard, too. The colorful heirloom tomatoes and peppers? They're from right up the road in Canton at Yoder Family Farm. Jams and jellies come from Fairburn's Fairywood Thicket, and honey come hive-to-table from Hidden Springs Farm in Williamson. It's like a little tasting tour of Georgia. And with dishes like Georgia shrimp 'n grits, crispy pork belly, local kale salad, and White Oak Pastures lamb loin chops with minted yogurt, the chef at Terrace does the ingredients justice.

The Ellis is a boutique hotel, and it definitely gives that intimate boutique feel to Terrace. With a small, chic dining area, it's pretty easy to quickly forget that you're in the middle of the downtown hubbub -- especially when you're snacking on greens and veggies from Georgia farms. In fact, everything about Terrace (besides the downtown view on the balcony) is worlds apart from downtown: carefully crafted dishes, ingredients from local farmers, a quiet setting... yup, easily the opposite of downtown. And yet, there it is, right in the thick of it all on Peachtree, no daytrips to Fairburn or Canton required.

Menu Highlights:
Shrimp and Grits, $9
Seared Mushroom Pate, $9
Crab Cake, $14
White Oak Pastures Lamb Loin Chops, $26
Niman Ranch Pork Chop, $24

Hours:
Breakfast:
Monday - Friday, 6:30 a.m. - 10:30 a.m.
Saturday - Sunday, 7 a.m. - 11:30 p.m.
Lunch:
Monday - Friday, 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Saturday - Sunday, 12 p.m. - 2 p.m.
Dinner:
Nightly, 5:30 p.m. - 10 p.m.

Impossibly Adorable Baby Animal Needs Equally Awesome Name

Tue, 02 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0400

Heavens to Betsy, that new baby giraffe is adorable. I mean, look at this guy. No, really, look at him. Or her -- we're not really sure. Regardless, our new little pal needs a sassy moniker. Which is why we ask you... well, if you had the chance, what would you name it?

Note: This round of What Say You is not in any way endorsed by, affiliated with, or approved by Zoo Atlanta -- especially our terrible (yet oh so clever) name ideas below. This is also not an Official Giraffe-Naming Contest; rather, merely a simple time-wasting distraction for your viewing pleasure and yet another excuse to make our viewers look at this ridiculously adorable picture once again.

OUR SCOUT SAYS:

After polling my fellow Mobsters, we decided the new kid on the block needed a name that reps his hometown. But after much debate, we still can't decide between Jane Fawnda, Andre 3-Spots, Dekimbe Gir-tumbo, Sir Poncey Longneck, or... Big Boi. Perhaps we should leave the zoo animal-naming up to the pros?

YOU SAYS:

"Leggo"
- Samantha Sastre

"Gilly!"
- Mekenzie Kathryn Zimmerman

"Twiga - Swahili for giraffe"
- Elizabeth Corn Pass

"Toonces, the Driving Giraffe"
- Adam Johnson

"Jerry the Giraffe"
- Jillian M. Harris

"Stretch"
- Mary Scott Stuckey

"Dot"
- Christine Bermingham

"Opu-Lance"
- James Cantwell

"Mutumbo."
- Mick D.

"Shorty."
- Renee Cannon

"Gingerbread."
- Kimberly Blodgett

NEXT WEEK'S WHAT SAY YOU:

Where should our flock of visiting celebrities go to dine?

Seems we have some fancy folks in town. With a couple of interesting talking pictures being filmed around town, a small subset of celebrities is meandering around our streets. Stars! They're just like us. But where would you recommend they eat in Atlanta to get a taste of our flavor? We're all ears! Hit us up on Facebook or Twitter @scoutmob with your answers. And remember, there's glory to be had for the people with the best answers, so don't hold back. Really, you're only hurting yourself.

Behind The Curtain With Imperial Opa

Tue, 02 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0400

You may have seen them stilt-walking at festivals, fire-breathing at arts fundraisers, or swinging from the ceiling at Paris on Ponce. The Imperial Opa has been delighting Atlantans with fantastical feats for nearly two years, and no matter how many times you've seen them perform, it never, ever gets old. From contortionist acts to aerial performances to body-stacking (more on that later), Opa has a list of tricks longer than one of those never-ending circus clown tongues.

I've had the pleasure of watching Opa perform in full regalia at events like Chomp 'n Stomp and Scoutmob's own Revel party, but last week I got the chance to see the performers do their thing at a weekly Wednesday night practice session in a dance studio blocks away from Castleberry Hill. There were no costumes, no stilts, no crowds of gawkers watching on in awe (unless you count me—I was most certainly awed. And gawking). In fact, at the beginning of the warm-up session, it could have easily been another class at the gym. But then they started, you know, standing on each other. And stacking themselves upon each other. And forming human pyramids. Toto, we ain't in LA Fitness anymore.

Sitting back and watching the performers do their thing (and narrowly avoiding joining the fun, despite Ringmaster Tim's urgings, thanks to my earlier decision to wear a skirt) was engrossing. Not the same kind of engrossing as watching the troupe perform as an act, either. There was no freaky makeup, flamboyant costuming, larger-than-life animal puppets. Just a skeleton crew of performers practicing their art with each other. And practicing the actual moves, according to founder and ringmaster Tim Mack, isn't even the half of it. It's all about learning to trust each other—which we suppose is rather important, when you're relying on someone's knees to support your body weight.

The motley crew of characters includes aerialists, jugglers, clowns, fire-performers, comedians, and more. There's also Steve, an 81-year old gymnast who coaches the team through their pyramid building and, on performance nights, joins in the fun. The group never fails to capture audiences' attention, intrigue, and amazement with their crazy assortment of Vaudevillian acts. But even behind the curtain with Opa, the team that's only been together since February of 2010, you can tell exactly how much of a team they really are—a hodgepodge of curious (and flexible) folk who make up a very curious and very flexible family. In other words, it's pretty much exactly what every kid had in mind when they decided to run away and join the circus—except these kids actually did it.

Learn more about the Imperial Opa on their website, and keep an eye out for them at the next event you attend. You never know when a fire-breather might appear.

Photos by Raftermen Photography.

What To Do On The Weeknights, August 1-4

Mon, 01 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0400

A new Monday, a new month! O, the possibilities. Ring in the new month with this week's tasty buffet of around-town haps. We did not include Wednesday's scheduled appearance of the Great Golden Goddess in Alpharetta, but that doesn't mean you shouldn't go and hum along to "Nine to Five" anyway.

WE DON'T WANT TO MISS:

Improv Revolution
Thursday, August 4, 10:30 p.m.
A bright, young crop of fresh-faced improv artists will test the waters on Thursday night at Dad's. Might as well go ahead and prepare them for a lifetime of tomato-facing. The bright-eyed and bushy-tailed noobs will be followed by a crew of seasoned Dad's actors.
Dad's Garage: Improv Revolution

ALSO WORTH CHECKING OUT:

Spaghetti Supper at No. 246
Monday, August 1, 5 p.m. - 10 p.m.
Word on the street is that this is quite the tasty little joint in Decatur -- our trusty local scout from Eat Drink Repeat brought us word of great success just after 246 opened its doors. A Monday evening spaghetti supper sounds like the perfect excuse to check out the locally driven, Italian-inspired restaurant. (Though, after reading the words "carbonara with bacon, crispy farm egg, and soft herbs," we didn't really need any extra cajoling.)
Facebook Event

Miss East Atlanta Pageant (pictured)
Monday, August 1, 10 p.m.
The Graveyard
It'll be like this, but with even more glitter! Nah, not really -- we have more faith in the lovely ladies of EAV than that. But there will be glitter. And DJ sets. And prizes! World peace, y'all.
MissEastAtlanta.com

Chow Down Atlanta Presents: America's Top Dog

Mon, 01 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0400

Once the simplistic fare of baseball stadiums and after-school snacks, the hotdog has taken on a rather interesting culinary significance recently. Is the humble hotdog going the way of the overly fancified hamburger? We're not sure. But quite frankly, we're always down to eat a hotdog, trend or not. Leave it to Chow Down Atlanta to embark on an epic quest to find the most delicious dog in the area. Read about the sausage party below, and let us know which of the forty (yes, forty) toppings you'll try:

You might think this American staple is just a hotdog, but over time, the sausage on a bun has evolved. First, the usual ingredients have been given an overhaul. It is now more common to see labels such as home-made, all-beef, turkey, and kosher. Second, the ho-hum garnishing of mustard or ketchup have been accompanied by an infinite number of toppings, limited only to the imagination.

So a hotdog is a hotdog is a hotdog? Not at America's Top Dog. The natural casing of the grilled, all-beef hotdogs here make a big difference. You can hear and feel the snap and crunch with every bite. I like that the hotdogs aren't too salty either. Best of all? The 40 toppings you can play with. Just imagine the possibilities! Spicy chili, coleslaw, even salsa!

If you'd rather not build your own hotdog, there are choices to make your life easy. The Georgia Dog. My fave. The spicy jumbo hotdog may not have that snappy casing but you won't even notice it with the exciting toppings that are included: chow chow, spicy chili, pimiento cheese, and coleslaw. You get crunchy from the slaw, heat from the chili, cheese from the pimiento, and that great Southern taste from the chow. Mmm, yummy.

The Cubs Dog is another contender. With cucumbers, relish, tomatoes, mustard, and a pickle, it's one great Chicago hotdog. But wait, don't forget the sides. The hand-cut fries are fried just right. The massive order of thick-battered onion rings all complete a meal. Not in the mood for hotdogs? Fret not. There are burgers!!! Fresh angus, as well as turkey, and veggie are grilled and ready for the party with your choice of toppings.

And there you have it. Stop by for lunch or a quick snack. The endless combination of how to dress your hotdogs should be enough to excite you.

Jonesing for a weiner yet? Check out Top Dog on Chamblee-Tucker Road, drool over Chloe's pictures, bring back one of them Georgia Dogs for us, and stay up-to-date on Chloe's culinary adventures over at Chow Down Atlanta.

50% Off at The Beignet Connection

Mon, 01 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0400

The Scoop: Either you're on the hunt for the perfect batch of authentic etouffee, or you're simply looking for another excuse to eat a piece of fried bread early in the morning. Or both. Either way, this four-month-old Creole spot in the Pencil Factory Lofts is going to satisfy both of those very important needs. A fresh beignet (or three) for breakfast, a custard-dipped pan perdu baguette for, um, second breakfast, a juicy muffaletta for lunch, and a big hot bowl of jambalaya for supper? Make a day of it. And end it with another sugar-sprinkled beignet. After all, it's New Orleans: you're supposed to let the good times roll.

Scout Notes: Creole and Cajun cuisines are confused pretty often, and it's something the Beignet Connection wants to help out with. Don't worry: you won't be judged if you walk in and ask for a big ol' serving of spicy boiled crawfish or hot boudin balls. You'll just have to wash dishes for a few hours before you're allowed to order. Well, they're not that strict, but thanks to Tony's decades-long history working in New Orleans-influenced restaurants and Sylvia's Creole heritage, these two are more than familiar with the difference between the two and are happy to educate. Now, the line between the two is often blurry and an endless source of debate among Louisiana natives, but we'll spare you the dishwashing with a basic summary: while Cajun cooking is a little more rustic and rural (dirty rice, charred and spiced meats, and those delightfully spicy little crawdads), Creole leans toward classical European-style cuisine—less slap-yo-mama spiciness, more refined and subtle flavors. Oh, and fluffy, sugar-dusted beignets... but we'll get to those later.

Now that your culinary lesson is over, let's get to the good part. You know, the part that involves gumbos, etouffees, jambalaya, and all that other good stuff. Tony tells me that they keep the dishes as authentic as they can—Camellia red beans, Leidenheimer French bread for po'boys, and Savoie's andouille sauasage are sent up to Atlanta straight from the Gulf so that Beignet Connection's kitchen can keep it real, Nawlins-style. After working with Atlanta institution Huey's for years, it's safe to say that Tony knows his stuff when it comes to Creole restaurants. In particular, the finicky formula for the perfect beignet: not too dense, but not too hollow; light and fluffy and just a little crisp. (And, if you're so inclined, doused with a hearty serving of their caramel sauce.) Tony tells me their particular version of the infamous NOLA pastry is a tad less dense than Cafe Du Monde's. The true test of Beignet Connection's food, however, lies with the Atlanta-area Creoles who have given it their stamp of approval. "We like food critics," says Tony, "but we really listen to what New Orleanians say about the food." We'll take their word for it—because if there's one thing we've learned from this restaurant, it's that those Louisianians know their food.

Menu Highlights:
Pan Perdu, $8.25
Creole Omelet, $13.95
Jambalaya Petit Pois, $13.95
Crawfish Etouffee, $14.95
Red Beans & Rice, $11.95
Beignets, 3 for $4.95, 6 for $5.95, or a Bakers' Dozen for $9.95

Hours:
Monday - Thursday, 9 a.m. - 9 p.m.
Friday & Saturday, 9 a.m. - 11 p.m.
Sunday, 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.

50% Off at The Real Chow Baby (Ponce)

Sun, 31 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0400

The Scoop: Perhaps you're the kind of picky eater who takes 10 minutes to give your order to a waiter. Maybe you're the kind of, um, creative chef whose late-night kitchen experiments are actually surprisingly delicious (who knew that Easy Mac-a-Ramen could be so tasty?). Or, perchance, you're the kind of perfectionist who can taste the difference between a "dash" and a "pinch" of chili powder. Or maybe you're just hungry. All of the above will find something just right at Real Chow Baby, the beloved Mongolian barbeque-style eatery on Ponce where bowls full of fixins get transformed into bowls full of delicious -- and you get all the credit. This is the place to be picky, be creative, be a perfectionist -- it's up to you. You're the boss, baby.

Scout Notes: With everything from bok choy to mandarin oranges to bamboo at your disposal, the stir-fry line at Chow Baby probably allows for more options than any other menu in Atlanta. How many times do you think you could visit this restaurant and eat something different each time? While I'm a little rusty on the math, I'd ballpark guess it at somewhere in the high zillions. Chow Baby encourages diners to mix it up, which is easy when you have over seventy ingredients to experiment with. Overwhelmed yet? Just look on the walls, where Chow Baby helpfully provides their own take on some ready-to-eat recipes. Bet you didn't know you can make a mean bowl of Japenese beef or Chow-style chop suey all on your own, did you? Well, maybe not entirely on your own... having a full spread of ingredients before you, a recipe on the wall, and a staff of cooks to prepare it for you might have given you an advantage. But hey, you're the one who filled up that bowl with the right ingredients.

And don't go thinking that just because the stir-fry bar happens to resemble a buffet, the atmosphere will be anything but fun. On the contrary, Chow Baby is rather hoppin', with a loungey interior, a bar full of signature cocktails, and a late-night menu on the weekends. Yes, Friday and Saturday means that stir-fry line is open until 1 a.m., for those of you who need a little more than a midnight snack. Indeed, we think enjoying some of Chow Baby's stir-fry after a night on the town would top our own kitchen creations... even that Mac-a-Ramen.

Menu Highlights:
Stir Fry Bar, $8.99 (Lunch) - $12.99 (Dinner)
Thai Beef Salad
Chicken Pot Stickers
Crab Rangoon
Shrimp Tempura

Hours:
Monday - Thursday, 11 a.m. - 10:30 p.m.
Friday - Saturday, 11 a.m. - 2 a.m.
Sunday, 12 p.m. - 10 p.m.

50% Off at Park's Edge

Sat, 30 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0400

The Scoop: With an intimate, comfortable atmosphere and a casually elegant menu, Park's Edge has become a favorite with foodies from all over Atlanta. Like moths to a flame, locals flock to the little house at the top of the Bernina Avenue hill in droves. While most people know it as a weekend brunch spot, the restaurant is equally hip, cozy, and delicious in the evenings, when mimosas are swapped out for creative cocktails and waffles get replaced by dishes like seared scallops and honey-marinated flank steak. And just when you thought that treasured patio couldn't get any better? Just wait til you see it lit by candles in the evenings. Seems Park's Edge is just one of those places that gets even better as the day goes on.

Scout Notes: Before discovering this little secret spot for myself about a year ago, I couldn't even begin to guess the number of times I've driven up and down this stretch of North Highland without having any inkling of its existence. Which, in my opinion, is what's made Park's Edge such a beloved spot in Inman Park. Tucked away, off the street, a little hard to find. Of course, since its opening nearly three years ago, the word has gotten out about Park's Edge. Probably thanks to the acclaimed menu, which features new American cuisine infused with a bit of Latin flair, thanks to Chef Jorge Pacheco, who grew up in Mexico City and also lists Chef Thomas Keller as a primary culinary influence. The award-winning ahi tuna crudo, for example, comes not just with crispy wontons but also with a touch of pico de gallo, while the ever-popular seared seabass is garnished with a chipotle cream sauce. With all of the sauces and nearly everything else made from scratch in-house, Chef Jorge describes his sauces as full-bodied, with defined flavor profiles (but the mild-tongued need not fear; those flavor profiles don't include "mouth-blazingly spicy").

Meanwhile, while Chef Jorge's working his magic in the kitchen, owner and host extraordinaire Richard is working his own magic in the front. It's not just the tasty brunch or sweet patio that keeps people coming back -- it's the fact that hospitality is so important to Richard, he's truly there every night, greeting each guest as they come in, whether they're first-timers or old pros. Between Chef's kitchen artistry and Richard's warmth, Park's Edge is basically a home away from home -- in my case, a much cleaner home with much better aromas coming from the kitchen. (And no obligation to take out the trash.)

Menu Highlights:
Jumbo Lump Corn Crab Cakes, $9
Ahi Tuna Crudo, $11
Crispy Calimari, $11
Honey-Marinated Flank Steak, $19
Seared Scallops, $26
Sesame-Grilled Salmon, $19
Seared Seabass, $29

Hours:
Dinner:
Tuesday - Thursday, 5 p.m. - 10 p.m.
Friday & Saturday, 5 p.m. - 11 -p.m.
Sunday, 6 p.m. - 9:30 p.m.
Brunch:
Saturday & Sunday, 11 a.m. - 3 p.m.

50% Off at Table 1280 Restaurant and Lounge

Fri, 29 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0400

The Scoop: At the Woodruff Arts Center, there's art to be found everywhere: on the stage of the AllianceTheatre, in Symphony Hall, on the gallery walls of the High, and at Table 1280, the beautiful lounge and restaurant tucked in the middle of the Woodruff fold. Just like the walls of the High, Table 1280's polished interior plays canvas to the kitchen's creations, and if food is art, then 1280 is easily another gallery of the museum. While we're all about gazing upon brilliant works of sculpture, photography, and design, this is the kind of fine art we can really get behind.

  Scout Notes: When I say that Table 1280 feels just like another part of Atlanta's beloved museum, it has something to do with the fact that, architecturally, it's equally gorgeous. After all, it was designed by the same world-class architect, Renzo Piano, who designed all of the High's additions. The space is bright, white, clean, and unequivocally cool, with curated art lining the walls (and the plates). But don't let the whole "fine art" thing scare you away: there's no need to be fancied up in order to relax with a cocktail and a small plate.. or three. The eclectic mix of patrons range from casual exhibition-goers to pre-theatre diners to folks from the neighborhood simply stopping by for an after-work libation. In other words, whether you're in your best theatre finery or coming straight from work, the environment here is relaxed enough for pretty much anyone to kick back and take in the culinary artwork on the tree-lined piazza or inside the gleaming lounge.

  Speaking of art, Table 1280 has a new artist in residence with their newly minted executive chef, Bhavesh Patel, whose subtle world culinary influences are making Table's menu that much more international and interesting. And Chef Patel's artistic body of work is downright delicious. If only Van Gogh tasted this good. The sweet and pungent garam masala ribs; the juicy, refreshing heirloom tomato salad (with bacon syrup!); even something as simple as chocolate ice cream (made in-house) -- it's all delicious, creative, and lovely to look at. Almost too pretty to eat... but don't let that stop you. The ever-changing cocktails, born from the creativity and playful experiments of Table's mixology team, are equally inventive: try the blueberry-acai Standing Ovation, or the deceptively strong 1280 Tea. Between the wide range of menu options, the diverse array of guests, and the five-different-kinds-of-sexy interior, we suppose you could call Table 1280 your own blank canvas: head there after work to sip a glass of wine and crunch on some Marcona almonds on the off-the-street patio; take it up a notch on Friday night with cocktails and small plates in the lounge; stroll over on the weekend for a luxurious brunch. After all, art is in the eye of the beholder.

 Menu Highlights: 
Crunchy Hominy, $7
Crispy Rock Shrimp, $10 
Snug Harbor Mussels, $12 
Garam Masala Smoked Baby Back Ribs, $12
 Sweet Pea Orecchiette, $18
 Poulet Rouge, $20 
Red Velvet Cheesecake, $8  

Hours: 
Summer Hours: 
Tuesday - Saturday, 11:00 a.m. - 9 p.m. 
Sunday, 11:00 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.  

Look for later hours beginning September 1 with the premiere performance season.

What To Do This Weekend, July 29-31

Fri, 29 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0400

Things we won't be doing this weekend: paying our Park Atlanta tickets, turning off our air conditioning, enjoying a hot toddy on a nice unshaded patio. Things we will be doing: enjoying the company of talented burlesque dancers, witnessing four Atlanta walls become art, dancing around the Unicorn to 8-bit tunes. In our humble opinion, the latter set holds far greater promise than the former. Behold, the weekend plan:

WE DON'T WANT TO MISS:

Four Coats Mural Unveiling
Saturday, July 30, 6 p.m. - 9 p.m.
All Around Town (Castleberry Hill, Inman Park, Midtown, Westside) City-sponsored street art is something we can get behind. And with our great City backing the Four Coats Mural Project, we feel like we're making some pretty sweet cultural progress for Atlanta's public spaces. This Saturday, the Four Coats Mural Project will unveil new murals in four 'hoods around town: Castleberry Hill, Inman Park, Midtown, and the Westside. Come on by, gaze in wonder, and meet the artists behind the work. Then raise your glass in a toast to giving such a grand makeover to Atlanta's walls.
Mural Locations

ALSO WORTH CHECKING OUT:

Bellissitease: Film Noir
Friday, July 29, 10 p.m.
Bellissima Lounge
Film noir + burlesque ladies = one very sultry Friday night for you (and us). Watch ladies of the dance saunter (pictured) and wriggle their way around Bellissima Lounge this evening as the Chameleon Queen, Sadie Hawkins, Talloolah Love and more join forces of noir-inspired seduction. These vivacious vixens encourage their guests to dress up ("as a femme fatale or a private dick!", per their Facebook page), so gloss up them gams and prepare to learn a thing or two.
Facebook Event

8TL: An 8-Bit Music and Art Showcase
Saturday, July 30, 9 p.m. - 2 a.m.
The Drunken Unicorn
Nothing brings me back to my childhood like the glorious blooping noises of my trusty Nintendo Entertainment System, which is why this weekend's 8TL chiptune fest is going to send me and the rest of my generation into childhood ecstasy. The Drunken Unicorn plays host to 8-bit musical performances, dancing, art for sale, and promises of Nintendo this Saturday evening. Turns out, it beats out your prior Saturday night plans of sitting around blowing into your NES cassettes so you can finally get Duck Hunt to work again.
Facebook Event

Caption This! Weekend Photo Fun

Fri, 29 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0400

Give us your best witty caption to go with this extra curious pic on Twitter or Facebook.

We'll post some of our favorites to this here website.

As for this interesting image from last week, here are some of the caption contributions:

OUR FAVORITE:

"See honey, after drinking enough Old Style, nobody could tell that I'm wearing a hairpiece or that you have a prosthetic left arm." - Chet Ebens

HONORABLE MENTIONS:

"Love Boat: Captain's Chambers"
- Poncho Wilson

"Smile for the camera or it gets the hose again."
- Skyler Dobin

"Uncle Frank is the best, he always lets me stay up late and drink in his basement."
- Everett Steele

"Kids, this should pretty much answer any questions you have about the '70s."
- Greg Miller

"Little known fact, before her skating career Dorothy Hamill did Old Style beer ads"
- Amy Brunelle

"...and this here is my daughter, Beulah, heiress to all of this. How much you offering?"
- Jose Guiterrez

"Awesome."
- Sweet Auburn BBQ

"1970's Exhibition at Madam Tussauds."
- Marie Dworak

"My husband, Dr. Koull, thought by supporting the prosthetic arm in a 'loving way' - no one would notice it wasn't connected."
- Marie Wertowitch Mahoney

‎"Wanna go back to my place and see my woofers?"
- Andrea Laign

"A great night always starts with warm beer and a game of Spin the Globe"
- Jason Peck

"Another evening at Dante's down the hatch."
- Josh O'Connor"

Like A [Dive Bar] Phoenix

Thu, 28 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0400

It was the quintessential dive bar recipe: a little rough around the edges, a whole lot beloved by the motley crew of regulars. The beer, burgers, and billiards joint on the side of the Decatur railroad tracks drew in people of all stripes (and at all times of the night, thanks to the tavern's late hours). And back when a huge fire took over the building in January 2009, Trackside's regulars rallied in support of their favorite watering hole. Now, over two and a half years later, Trackside has risen from the cigarette ashes in all its glory. Like a boozy phoenix, the tavern has made a complete turnaround, having been rebuilt on the same space from the ground up.

Few things can unite like a good bar, and we're digging seeing this good bar back up and running. Let's just pray that the trivia can stand up to the legendary Trackside trivia nights of yore.

Dig it at 313 East College Avenue in Decatur.

Meet Asha Gomez, Spice Route Supper Clubber

Thu, 28 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0400

Long before tickets to supper clubs were selling out instantly, Asha Gomez was just beginning to introduce a lucky few Atlantans to the tastes and flavors of Kerala, the southwestern Indian state where she grew up. Now, her own Spice Route Supper Club is one of the can't-miss events on the food scene—and it's been so successful that Asha has decided to take the next step and start a brand-new restaurant. Read on to learn more about Asha's labor of love and get some details on Cardamom Hill, her new culinary venture opening this fall on Northside Drive.

SCOUT: Hi Asha, can you tell us how your readers might know you?
ASHA: I'm Asha Gomez, the Creator and Executive Chef at Spice Route Supper Club and Cardamom Hill Restaurant.

SCOUT: Tell us a bit about what you do.
ASHA: As far as the things I've worked on is concerned, I truly believe in a phrase by Khalil Gibran: "Work is love made visible". I've been fortunate to be able to pursue my passions in life—I was in the spa industry for twenty years, here and in New York. At the Neem Tree Spa, which I ran on Atlanta’s Westside, I would frequently cook meals for clients after their ayurvedic treatments. Some eventually came just for the food! After the spa closed [at the end of 2008], I found what I missed most was sharing the dishes I grew up cooking. The supper club seemed a personalized way for me to begin sharing these foods with a wider audience. Cooking for a crowd comes easy to me. I grew up in a communal home in Kerala, where I learned from my mother and her three sisters. And then my mother and I moved to New York when I was 16. She ran a catering company, offering traditional Kerala foods, and I cooked alongside her.

SCOUT: Hot question of the moment: you recently announced your plans to open a brand-new restaurant. Can you give us some tidbits as far as what we can look forward to?
ASHA: Yes, the restaurant will be called Cardamom Hill. The restaurant is a natural outgrowth of the wonderful response we have received from local Atlantans to Spice Route Supper Club. We plan to open this fall and we will be located at 1700 Northside Drive in the Berkeley Heights Shopping center in Midtown. We made a conscious decision to look intown for a space because we believe that many of us who live/work ITP would appreciate a convenient place to go to eat regional Indian food. Similar to what we do at Spice Route Supper Club—the cuisine of Cardamom Hill will feature the specific flavors and dishes of my native Kerala, the southwestern-most state of India. I chose to name the restaurant after the well-known mountainous terrain located in the southeast region of Kerala, India. The Cardamom Hills are named after the cardamom spice grown in much of the hill's cool elevation.

SCOUT: Most of our readers probably know you from your work with Spice Routes Supper Club. Can you tell us the what, how, and why's behind that project?
ASHA: It started as a labor of love - when I decided that I wanted to share my passion for Kerala cuisine I thought it best to test it out with a supper club concept. It began with my wonderful group of family and friends, who in turn expanded the circle and spread the word. The response and support from our guests continue to inspire me going forward.

SCOUT: Supper clubs have caught on like wildfire lately. Any thoughts on why, or where it's going?
ASHA: I think people are looking for an alternative to the traditional restaurant experience and generally supper clubs are free from the constraints of a restaurant and are more willing to create more adventurous dishes and take more culinary risks. Additionally, when it comes to our supper club it always becomes an educational journey on the cuisine and culture of a different part of the world. It's also fun to interact with new people and connect over a shared exploration of cuisine and pierce the zone of anonymity in a traditional restaurant.

SCOUT: Seems like Atlanta's all about burgers and frozen yogurt these days. Do you think diners will be excited to try something a little different with your South Indian fare?
ASHA: The supper club has been an unexpectedly wonderful test market to gauge the interest that people have in regional Indian cuisine. We've had a tremendous response to our concept in the local Atlanta community. I think people are ready to take their experience with traditional Indian food to the next level. We are also presenting very authentic food from an under-discovered area of the world in a fresh, contemporary way. That said - I'm all about enjoying a great burger!

SCOUT: Who are some of your culinary inspirations in Atlanta?
ASHA: There are several but just to name a few -Annie Quatrano - she's an iconic, culinary innovator in the Atlanta food scene. I think Julia Le Roy is an exciting chef to watch. I'm a fan of Nan Niyomkul's Nan Fine Dining and how she's upscaled Thai food in Atlanta.

SCOUT: And about eating: where, besides your own kitchen, do you like to go in Atlanta to enjoy something tasty?
ASHA: Besides my own kitchen, I enjoy the inspired culinary creations of Chef Omar Powell who I'm happy to report will be joining the Cardamom Hill restaurant team. It's an eclectic range: I love everything Abattoir, Restaurant Eugene, Cafe Jonah and the Magical Attic, Chaat Paati, and the numerous ethnic eateries on Buford Highway.

SCOUT: Your favorite "curious find" in Atlanta?
ASHA: What's amazing about Atlanta is that I can find the most sumptuous tropical fruits from around the world at our local farmer's markets.

SCOUT: Finally, give us the lowdown on where our readers can learn more about you and your work.
ASHA: They can find me on Facebook, @spicerouteATL on Twitter, our blog, and learn more about our cuisine on our short film.

50% Off at Baroni Italian ristorante & bar

Thu, 28 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0400

The Scoop: With a simple, authentic ingredients, incredible wood-fired oven pizzas, and an eclectic wine list, Baroni has quickly become a favorite in South Buckhead for its casual Italian fare, hip ambiance, open kitchen and tempting mozzarella bar. And of course, that recognizable classic Fiat parked in front. After all, you have to make it a point to differentiate yourself. And that Fiat 500 just happens to be part of that formula.

Scout Notes: A pleasant night out for Italian doesn’t have to be all white tablecloths and candles, fancy wine lists and romance. (Torture, we know.) Instead of going that route, Baroni keeps it refreshingly low-key, with a dark hip interior and a wide-ranging menu of Italian fare. It’s nice, after all, to have the option of an Italian spot that's not too stuffy nor too casual; a place to go on the regular for delicious food and cool cocktails without feeling like this is your “big night out.” The space is large, dim, and candlelit, making for a perfect post-work evening supper or a weekend spot.

Also perfect to round out your evenings? The menu at Baroni. It encompasses a variety of Italian classics, from light and refreshing antipasti plates to filling, delicious classics (such as the beloved lamb shank). Pair it with one of the bar's signature cocktails specials, which are usually made with whatever fruit is most fresh and in-season (huckleberry lemonade, anyone?), and you'll see why this restaurant is quickly becoming a favorite for hungry Midtowners and Buckheadites alike. Besides, who can pass up a mozzarella bar? Not us. Yep, after just a little over a year in business, we can see why this joint has become a neighborhood fave for classic, fresh Italian fare. And it's not just because we're in love with that Fiat parked out front.

Menu Highlights:
Mozzarella Bar, $6-10 (depending on lunch or dinner and size of dish)
Prosciutto di Parma Pizze, $15
Linguine Amalfitani, $18
Grilled Pork Tenderloin, $15
Lamb Shank, $19

Hours:
Monday - Thursday, 11:30 a.m. - 10:00 p.m.
Friday, 11:30 a.m. - 10:30 p.m.
Saturday, 5 p.m. - 10:30 p.m.
Sunday, 11:30 a.m. - 9:30 p.m.

50% Off at Flying Biscuit (Norcross)

Wed, 27 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0400

The Scoop: If you've lived in the greater Atlanta area for more than, say, a week, chances are you've heard the legends of this string of hometown culinary landmarks. And if you're lucky, your taste buds have experienced the pure joy of those dreamy creamy grits, not to mention the fluffy namesake biscuits that, well, fly out the kitchen they're so popular. Well, that delicious food and funky vibe isn't just for intowners—OTPers have as much need for biscuits as the Candler Park crowd. Three years ago, the lucky folks of the Norcross area stopped driving all the way to Midtown for brunch when they got their own version of the beloved eatery, and it's true to the original. Same creamy dreamy grits. Same good ol' comfort food freshened up with a healthy twist. Same colorful, eclectic interior with cheery tablecloths and even cheerier servers. Oh yeah, and cocktails. That's right—the Norcross Flying Biscuit is the only one with a full bar. A summery cocktail to go with those fish tacos? As far as we're concerned, Norcross has it great.

Scout Notes: Now, you already know that Flying Biscuit serves up some of the best breakfast below the Mason-Dixon. But what I never really thought about or tried was their non-breakfast menu. Luckily, friendly managers Suni and Daren were more than happy to show me. Those dreamy creamy grits I could eat for days? Well, they happen to go quite well with some spicy shrimp in Flying Biscuit's mouthwatering version of shrimp 'n' grits. The turkey pot roast is unbelievably tender, practically indecipherable from the best brisket in town (except for that conveniently lower fat content). The Biscuit's twist on chicken pot pie is creamy and rich, but instead of puff pastry, there's something even better -- a couple of those famously tasty biscuits. And their fish tacos are on the menu by popular demand -- they were such a hit on the specials menu, those big folded tortillas stuffed with half-filets of tilapia just had to make their way on to the permanent menu. After tasting them with a dollop of Flying Biscuit's chipotle sauce, I understood why.

I also understood why the staff here takes so much pride in their food. It's something Suni mentioned several times, beaming while I ogled the dishes she set in front of me, and it's something you can really, truly taste. (As it was explained to me, the staff takes themselves lightly, but the food very seriously.) And with a whole lotta love put into each dish, chock full of fresh produce delivered six days a week, Norcross residents are definitely getting the same taste of the delicious concept that started in Candler Park nearly two decades ago. The cheery servers, laid-back atmosphere, folksy interior, and of course, those biscuits, are just like the original location, but minus the 30-minute drive that Norcross breakfast warriors would have to make (and plus cocktails.) Yup, this OTP location is carrying the famed 18-year-old torch of delicious food, giving the 'burbs an eclectic and healthy spot to eat, and generally brightening up a stretch of Peachtree Parkway. "We want people to know that they don't just eat here, they belong here," said Suni. As long as they keep bringing out the biscuits.

Menu Highlights:
Breakfast:
Egg-ceptional Eggs, $7.99
High Flyer, $9.99
Biscuit, Eggs & Gravy, $8.99
Super Suppers:
Shrimp 'n Grits, $13.99
Biscuit Pot Pie, $10.99
Turkey Pot Roast, $9.99
Flying Fish Tacos, $12.95

Hours:
Open daily, 7 a.m. - 9 p.m.

Win A Prize If You Recognize

Wed, 27 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0400

How well do you know your city? Give us your best guess on this mystery location and we'll send a sweet, sweet prize to one lucky winner.

Reply to the Scoutmob daily email with your answer, or hit us up through Twitter or Facebook.

Last week’s answer: Daddy Dz BBQ JOYNT
Last week's winner: Steve Sparks

Purge ATL Presents: Small Press Love with Vouched ATL

Wed, 27 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0400

This whole Borders business isn't necessarily a bad thing, you know. While mega-retailers might not be able to tread water, small presses and indie bookstores are offering a refreshing alternative to algorithms and recommendation engines and all that newfangled pishposh. One such example is Vouched Books, who launched their Atlanta colony this weekend with a reading at Young Blood. The idea is simple: promote small press by reading and recommending books that you can, you know, vouch for. Purge caught up with Vouched ATL's fearless leader, Laura, for a few questions in what they call an "Awful Interview." We rather enjoyed it, and we think you will, too.

“Print Not Dead!” At least not to some of us. With e-book readers on the rise and bookstores going out of style like guilty verdicts, it makes you wonder if a hardback will soon be a thing of the past. Thankfully, with the gaining popularity of chap book and small literary presses with the focus being on quality over quantity– we have a “New Hope”.

Like a good friend who constantly recommends their favorite books to you, Vouched ATL is at the forefront of promoting the small press movement, not just by promoting the titles, but by actually reading every book that they sell.

Conceived in the Midwest, specifically the Hoosier state, Vouched has recently expanded their paperback empire to Atlanta, Georgia. Laura Straub has taken it up on herself to verse us with what’s going on in the literary community by setting up a Vouched table at Atlanta-based events, interviewing authors and even hosting readings. To get things started Young Blood Gallery & Boutique [hosted] Vouched ATL’s Official Launch Reading on Sunday, July 24th at 6:30pm.

Known for the off-beat “Awful Interviews” that Vouched subjects authors and their readership to, Purge ATL decided to welcome Laura to Atlanta by giving her a dose of her own medicine.

Catch the awful interview here, and stay posted on Vouched ATL via their Twitter feed. Thanks, Purge!

{Photo credit: Tim Song}

Meet April Leigh, CouchCouchpotato and Sidewalk Activist

Tue, 26 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0400

April Leigh is an artist, an activist, and a genuine lover of change. You might know her as the one behind CouchCouch, the alternative artists' space in the Old Fourth Ward, or from her pro-pedestrian activism to get Atlantans out of their cars and onto the sidewalks. Viva la Feet!

SCOUT: How might people know you?
APRIL: Ladies’ man, mans’ man, man about town – was seen leaving the Copa last night with a doggie bag and three girls from the floor show!

SCOUT: You’re not from Atlanta originally. Why do you call it home?
APRIL: I’ve met some of the most amazing and interesting people here in ATL. And I hoped by now I would have met Andre 3000.

SCOUT: You’ve spoken in support for crosswalks, the walkability of the city, and MARTA usage, just to name a few. What is your current focus?
APRIL: Over the past 2 years I have been building up a regular monthly free market outside of couchcouch. Now there are some kids who are helping to throw it the first Saturday of the month.

SCOUT: When and why did you start Couch Couch?
APRIL: Jan 2010 was our first show. I wanted a place to exist that embraced a punk house ideal in that it was free to people, was not a smoky bar, no pressure to buy booze, founded by people who were seeking to be in or perform at something original and organic. Away from a punk house idea, however, a comfortable setting and deliberately designed space to be seeing what the creative in your town have going on and to house our traveling performers as well. A place of connection for interesting and interested parties alike.

SCOUT: How many couches are at Couch Couch?
APRIL: We have a no couch policy and guests are asked to leave all their couches outside.

SCOUT: It seems you’re a one of few youthful activists in Atlanta. What drives you to push for social change?
APRIL: This is where we live and it seems only logical to want to know or be a part of the going ons of your block. If we do not represent our voices and ideas, no one will for us. We are the copy and paste generation and we have to learn how to work for what is desired, not to wait for the system to figure it out one day.

SCOUT: What kind of progress are you working toward?
APRIL: Pedestrian revolution! VIVA LA FEET! Atlanta will fall away into a parking lot-ridden, LA air-breathing cluster of traffic jams if we don’t make active strides in curbing the car culture here. Counter to the belief that it is not safe to walk the streets of Atlanta, the reality is that the more people that are out walking and engaging in the area, the safer it becomes. Walking around in a great outfit makes you street art! And besides, riding public transit is just sexier, really.

SCOUT: Favorite Atlanta artists?
APRIL: Joey M. Playwrite/actor supreme, co-founder of couchcouch. Patrick Coll. Printmaker/tee shirt craftsman, public arts warrior. Malina Rodriguez. Dance savior most rockNroll, super cool gig hooker-uper.

SCOUT: Coolest project or event you’ve worked on in Atlanta?
APRIL: Back Pockets and our four on the floor cast of wonderful. Rev. Johnny L. Jones’ shows and getting to work with Dust to Digital were most amazing. Everyone in that project brought such amazing light. Almost makes me jump for Jesus.

SCOUT: Local projects or groups that inspire you?
APRIL: Concrete jungle- Urban hunter/ gatherers. Maybe not hunters. Last summer I found some fruit trees growing around Atlanta, but what these guys find is like whoa.

SCOUT: Where in ATL do you go to get new ideas or find inspiration?
APRIL: I'm thinking when I’m moving so when I walk around town, or bike through traffic, or hula hoop, or yoga out, I’m taking it in. The landscape of the city gives me ideas all the time.

SCOUT: Where do you go for a good drink and good company?
APRIL: Somewhere in the orbit of Sandy Springs is Fanoos, a Persian spot with giant rugs to sit on that features flamenco dancing by beautiful women and the mysterious guitar man. ITP, Pal’s Lounge is of course the best.

SCOUT: Your favorite “curious find” in Atlanta?
APRIL: The Madam CJ Walker Museum off Hilliard and Auburn ave. It’s a historic salon started by Miss Walker who became America’s first female self-made millionaire. It is still so groovy as functioning salon and filled floor to ceiling with old jazz blues and soul records. It’s located underneath the former site of W.E.R.D., the first black-owned radio station in America. Also, the Fourth Ward urban farm. I watched the boarded up projects that use to be there get bulldozed and the farm is such a beautiful usage of that land.

SCOUT: Another local Atlantan(s) that inspires you or your work?
APRIL: EVEREMAN FOR PRESIDENT! Also, dance hop mindpop Sky Hy and his Electric Church.

SCOUT: What are you currently working on?
APRIL: Finishing the last phase for couchcouch to become a hostel. There is a lack of good lodging in Atlanta and I believe it can be utilized as a port for traveling artists and cultural nomads.

SCOUT: Where do you see the future of the Atlanta going? How can you contribute?
APRIL: It is hard to say what all of Atlanta will do because I really only can see what is right around me. MLK said in the staircase of life, you should only see two steps at a time. I think it is relevant for the communities of Atlanta. If we turn inward and really focus on our specific neighborhoods they will build to then connect and work together. I think about Fourth Ward all the time because I walk the Fourth Ward. Residents and businesses staying tight and true to the community would inspire some real gravy stuff here.

SCOUT: How can others help with the future of Atlanta?
APRIL: VIVA LA FEET!

SCOUT: Finally, throw out a shameless plug of where people can see more, learn more, and do more.
APRIL: Couchcouch.tumblr.com for events and stuff I find from local artists that rock. I write my gospel of Atlanta in the blogosphere, doeEyedPhotoCo.blogspot.com. And my Livejournal is pretty golden as well.

A-Town Al Fresco

Tue, 26 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0400

We Atlantans love our patios (well, maybe not in July, but still). And yet, it seems we have an al fresco wishlist a mile long when it comes to picking a sweet spot to dine outside anywhere in the city. The very idea of pitching a picnic blanket in, say, Oakland Cemetery or on the roof of the Bank of America building is enough to make us consider venturing outside. Maybe. So, we asked you: if you could dine al fresco anywhere in Atlanta, where would you throw your blanket? And we did mean anywhere.

OUR SCOUT SAYS:

Hands down, the "African Plains" section of ZooAtlanta with the new baby giraffe as my date. We'd dine on a leafy green salad together and then make our way over to the meerkats for espresso and dessert. They're very proper, those meerkats.

YOU SAYS:

"The roof of the B of A building at night."
- Shannon Dupont

"In centerfield at the Ted."
- Adam Johnson

"On stage at the Fox Theater."
- Elaine Whiting Sweatman

"On a runway at Hartsfield Jackson late at night."
- Kathleen Donahoe

"On the corner of Briarcliff and Ponce with Bicycle Shorts Man"
- Jason Becknell

"The High - blankets and artwork!"
- Courtney Forrest

"In the middle of the Atlanta Botanical Garden... WITH our dog :-) or most of the other places mentioned. Our dog isn't allowed in at most of those either"
- Kay Stephenson

"On top of the AT&T building!"
- @misskamilla

"I'd actually be torn b/t Serenbe (Fayette Co.) & The Monastary/Arabia Mtn (Covington) 4 ideal picnic location"
- @Bejewels

"Zoo Atlanta, circa 1995. With Willie B. of course."
- @matthew_sellers

"In the big viewing room at the Aquarium! Lock it off so no one else could enter and bother me and I'd be in HEAVEN!"
- @OliviaKnits

NEXT WEEK'S WHAT SAY YOU:

WHAT WOULD YOU NAME ZOO ATLANTA'S NEW BABY GIRAFFE?

So, to be honest, we really just needed an excuse to link back to this video again. But it got us thinking: the little guy (or gal? We're not sure) needs a name. Preferably something snazzy and Atlanta-ish for our newest little ATLien. Ted Turner, anyone?

We're all ears! Hit us up on Facebook or Twitter @scoutmob with your answers. And remember, there's glory to be had for the people with the best answers, so don't hold back. Really, you're only hurting yourself.

50% Off at G Salon and Spa

Tue, 26 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0400

The Scoop: How many times have you blindly waltzed into a salon as a new customer, nervously clutching your ripped-from-a-magazine picture of an "elegant, yet sexily rugged" celebrity 'do, having no idea who your stylist would be, how much they'd charge, or whether they'd turn you into a toy poodle by the end of it all? Let alone whether or not they could actually handle walking that fine line of classy-meets-bedhead you so coherently described. Would it help alleviate the tension if you could choose exactly how much you wanted to spend on a cut and know that the person holding the scissors is either already a master of the craft or well on their way there? Yes, it would. Which brings us to G Salon, an intimate salon and spa on Piedmont where the team of experienced stylists range from "brilliant" to "Jedi of hair," and you can pick and choose your path to beauty. Who knew it could be this easy?

Scout Notes: The best gauge of a salon's quality isn't the trendiness of the decor or the cleverness of the place's name: it's the way the customers look when they're leaving. The newly styled people coming out of G Salon were smiling, laughing with their stylists, and working that extra spring in your step that comes with a fancy new coiffure. It was a little like a Benetton ad or an episode of one of those modeling shows (minus the confessional booth crying) -- everyone looking gorgeous, grinning, and having a good time together. From my chat with owner Craig, that's the long and short of their goal at G Salon: a comfortable, classy environment without a trace of stuffiness or prettier-than-thou snobbery. Thanks to that aforementioned multitiered pricing system, people from all walks of life are getting gussied up right alongside each other. Which means those of the pennypinching persuasion, like myself, could conceivably be sharing environs with a supermodel and her master hair stylist with 20+ years of experience.

Beyond the beautifying of tresses, G Salon also offers a range of spa and aesthetician services for all of your waxing, massaging, and skin treatment needs. Each stylist, aesthetician, and massage therapist is armed with G Salon's arsenal of top-of-the-line products, from French hair care brand Phyto to skin care line Dermalogica. And of course, there's that keratin smoothing treatment that apparently tames your mane into a silken work of art, much like going from this to this. Seems like an upgrade to me. For those who'd rather stick with the Nick Nolte look, there's bound to be someone from the 11-person staff of experienced stylists who can help you truly rock that.

Services:
Cuts, Stage One: $30 and up
Cuts, Master Level, $75 and up
One-Hour Massage, $75
One-Hour Facial, $75
Bikini Wax, $35
Keratin Treatment, $300

Hours:
Sunday, 12 p.m. - 6 p.m.
Closed Monday
Tuesday, 10 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Wednesday - Thursday, 10 a.m. - 8 p.m.
Friday, 10 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Saturday, 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Reservations recommended

Savory Exposure Presents: Killin' Them Tomatoes

Mon, 25 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0400

Yeah, it was a week ago, but we couldn't resist sharing Savory Exposure's snaps from the juiciest festival of the summer. Gaggle at Broderick's photos of the Killer Tomato fest, check out the creative concoctions from places like Bocado, H Harper Station, and ONE Midtown Kitchen, and try to see how long you can make it without craving some of those profiteroles from West Egg. Good luck! We made it thirty seconds.

The third annual Attack of the Killer Tomato Festival has come and gone and the weather couldn't have been better. Sunny skies and a break from the constant 90+ degree heat welcomed folks eager for a taste & imbibe creations celebrating the tomato. The festival benefits Georgia Organics, a member supported nonprofit working to connect organic food from Georgia farms to Georgia families.

The chefs and mixologists at each restaurant were paired with farmers to create a signature dish and drink. The Spazmatics and Atlanta's chef band Five Bone Rack entertained the crowd. Judges from Food & Wine, Bon Appetit, the AJC and CNN judged the creations and I'm already looking forward to next year. Enjoy the photos!

Check out the whole beautiful spread of tomato-y goodness over at SavoryExposure.com.

What To Do On The Weeknights, July 25-28

Mon, 25 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0400

Dancing, singing, and tea? Indeed, we do have your culture for this week. Enjoy the events of this week as a respite from your belligerent and mischievous shenanigans of the weekend. (Yes, we saw you.) Let the pros do the dancing for you this week while you soak up all the weeknight goodness happening in our sweet, sweet hometown:

WE DON'T WANT TO MISS:

PLOT
Thursday, July 28, 9:30 p.m.
The Goat Farm
It's the long-awaited performance from Dance Truck on their own little patch of earth at the Goat Farm. Go ahead and preorder your tickets so you can catch this talented troupe of performance artists in their full glory.
Tickets

ALSO WORTH CHECKING OUT:

Adron opens for He's My Brother, She's My Sister
Thursday, July 28, 8:30 p.m. @ The EARL
Our favorite sweet-lilted songbird (pictured) opens for a fancy band from out Californy-way. Well, not that fancy—He's My Brother, She's My Sister bills itself as flamboyant folk meets vaudeville pop. But honestly, we're more interested in catching Atlanta's own whistling wonder.
Tickets

The Learning Tea Benefit Dinner
Monday, July 25, 6:30 p.m. - 9 p.m. @ Dr. Bombay's Underwater Tea Party
One of the coolest outreach projects we've seen in a while, the Learning Tea gives Atlantans a chance to help out halfway around the world—specifically, to lend a hand to the children of Darjeeling living in poverty. This dinner of Indian cuisine at the wondrously whimsical Dr. Bombay's will benefit the Atlanta-based project with your purchase of tickets ($20 in advance, $25 day of). As if we needed another excuse to hang out at our favorite Candler Park curious find.
Facebook Event Page

50% Off at Botekim Brazilian Bistro

Mon, 25 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0400

The Scoop: First, let's get a couple things straight. Erase from your mind all images of swishypants-clad servers delivering giant cuts of meat on swords, because this is not a steakhouse. It seems Atlanta has a fairly one-sided relationship with the complex and flavorful world of Brazilian food, in the form of those infamous churrascarias. But Brazilian cuisine is more than just a piece of meat, you know. And with the recent opening of Botekim, we Atlantans can finally experience more Brazilian cuisine without gorging ourselves on sixteen different cuts of steak. Marietta's lucky to get a taste of Chef Alex's comfort food recipes straight from Rio (complete with the requisite caipirinha) and after tasting just one of his stuffed yucca fritters, intowners will consider it worth the trip up I-75. Hey, it's approximately 9 hours and 30 minutes shorter than flying down to Rio itself -- and probably a good bit closer to true Brazilian food than you'll get at the meat-sword emporiums.

Scout Notes: As someone whose only experience with Brazilian food has been with churrascarias, I had little point of reference for what real, non-steak Brazilian dishes would taste like. Luckily, co-owner, Rio native, and executive chef Alex DeGrossi is hellbent on keeping the restaurant as true to his roots as possible, which explains why he's constantly in the kitchen making sure everything is prepared to perfection. The dishes on the menu are the same ones he spent his youth cooking in Brazil, the cocktail list is full of Brazilian staples, and even the floor of the bar area is a replica of the crazy sidewalks of Ipanema. Until I can raise the necessary funds to see it for myself, I'll happily enjoy a cold caipirinha on Alex's version in Marietta.

Chef Alex, who was a team-member at culinary institutions like Bistro Niko, Buckhead Bottle Bar, and Jean-Georges' Market, has been cooking the dishes on Botekim's menu from a tender age. He explains it as Brazilian comfort food, and the menu (which he developed with consulting chef Ian Winslade) is full of unexpected flavors like banana, yucca, hearts of palm, and passionfruit sauce. And it is so, so good. Those yucca fritters I mentioned earlier? Like little battered balls of heaven. With spicy ground beef in the middle surrounded by creamy, rich pureed yucca, it's my ideal kind of fried snack. I also learned via a friendly server that the perfect way to follow those fritters is with a big plate of vaca atolada, the ultra-tender braised beef short ribs. Though after sampling just a little of Alex's comfort-style cooking, I'd probably eat whatever they told me to, and thank them with a big ol' Brazil-sized grin on my face.

Menu Highlights:
Yucca Fritters, $7
Shrimp Salad, $11
Braised Beef Ribs, $22
Caipirinha, $7
Batida, $7

Hours:
Monday - Saturday, 11:30 a.m. - 10:00 p.m.
Sunday, 11 a.m. - 4 p.m.

50% Off at Tantra Restaurant & Lounge

Sun, 24 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0400

The Scoop: Here's the thing about the tantra philosophy: it's not just about 8 consecutive hours of, you know, hangin' out with Sting. It's more about living in the moment, and that's what this restaurant urges its guests to do. Or seduces them into doing, rather. While the food is certainly fine and the atmosphere is romantic, this is not a stuffy Fine Dining experience (in case the tantric goddess didn't tip you off). In other words, it's time to... slip into something a little more comfortable. The smooth loungey music, the lowered lights, the sultry decor, even the names of the cocktails are all designed for guests to relish their surroundings. How can you not enjoy the ambience when you're sipping on a jalapeno-infused 7-Year Spice while listening to music straight out of a Parisian lounge? This lavish little pleasure den of a restaurant is decked out with some seriously sultry decor, including a tantra chair that might be calling your name.

Scout Notes: The menu at Tantra was inspired by the Silk Road, which reached from Asia to the Mediterranean and was an epicenter of flavors from all cultures. Tantra isn't an Indian restaurant, or an Asian fusion spot, or a Mediterranean restaurant. It's something like a blend of all three, with dishes that integrate unexpected flavors, according to general manager Laurend. He points to the hummus tasting platter as a perfect example of international flavors; it includes a hummus of edamame and another with white truffle oil, and it's served with naan instead of pita--an interesting and delicious fusion of Asian, Indian, and French cuisines. The lamb kibbe nayeh is a riff on Mediterranean carpaccio or tartare, using lamb instead of the usual beef and served with bulgar and a shallot yogurt sauce. And the ostrich filet is tender, lean, and unlike any other filet served in Atlanta. No, really: Tantra's one of the only places in the area serving ostrich in a non-burger form. The cocktails are equally sensuous and, dare we say, a bit sexual--there's even a Ladies' Aphrodisiac with star anise and cucumber, which in combination have been said to have certain physiological effects on women. Does it work? "I haven't had any complaints," says Laurend.

Between the indulgent dishes and the tantric goddess doing her thing up on the wall, it's enough to make anyone feel quite sensual. Just, you know... try to resist that curvy black tantra chair after a few Aphrodisiac cocktails.

Menu Highlights:
Hummus Tasting with Naan, $10
Kibbe Nayeh Pizza, $10
Pomegranate Braised Boneless Beef Short Rib, $23
Grilled Ostrich Filet, $32
Basil Caramelized Scallops, $21

Hours:
Monday - Thursday, 5:30 p.m. - 10 p.m.
Friday and Saturday, 5:30 p.m. - 2 a.m.
Complimentary valet parking available.

50% Off at Fragile Gifts

Sat, 23 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0400

The Scoop: Stocked to the ceilings with all sorts of finery, Fragile Gifts has been beautifying the tabletops and china cabinets of Atlanta for 25 years. But their huge selection from names like Baccarat, Herend, Waterford, and Juliska aren't the only reason they're beloved in the area. Take a lap or two around the shop's 9,000-square foot showroom, and you'll see what we're talking about: their selection of giftware, baby items, quirky glass art, jewelry, and fun seasonal items makes it a true one-stop-shop for gift-buying. Meaning, for those of us whose dinnerware sets are somewhere in the stages between "bargain rack at Target" and "this gravy boat is worth more than your apartment," there's still plenty of fun to be had at Fragile. And not just for yourself, either -- there's a little something sparkly for pretty much anyone celebrating a special occasion.

Scout Notes: Real talk: shops like this normally intimidate me to no end. The pricepoints, the salespeople, and the fact that I'm a living representation of that old "bull in a china shop" adage are enough to keep me steering clear of any store with Baccarat champagne flutes in its collection. But walking into Fragile felt entirely different. Perhaps it's the playful contrast of plush, not-so-fragile baby gifts right in front of the way-outta-my-league Herend fine china collection. Maybe it was the genuine friendliness of Bob and Suzan, the owners, and the incredibly knowledgeable and helpful staff. And I'll admit, it might have even had something to do with Fragile's 9,000 square feet allowing clumsy old me to meander without fear of knocking over an entire display of stemware worth more than my car.

Most likely, though, it had something to do with the fact that Fragile is not your average fine china store. After watching the owners greet everyone by name who walked into the shop, after getting the deluxe tour from one of the staff (Helen), and after hearing Bob explain the merits of one particular line of dinnerware over another, I understood why people have been heading here for almost three decades: the personalized service from seasoned pros that have been answering age-old questions ("Wusthof or Henckels?") for years. The fact that I am not anywhere near in the market for a porcelain vegetable tray mattered not; Helen still had plenty of things to show me that wouldn't make my credit card spontaneously combust at the register, whether it's a beautiful Michael Aram nickelplate photo frame or a cute Zoku popsicle maker. And no matter what you choose, Fragile will help you out even a little more with their complimentary gift-wrapping, saving me from yet one more step (and possibly a few papercuts). "From fun to fine" was the way she explained it, and it's true -- if you're shopping for Kate Spade teacups, you'll have a blast, but I saw plenty of fun, beautiful, and (gasp!) affordable gifts... and even a few things I could treat myself to. Le Creuset, anyone?

Store Highlights:
Dinnerware:
Juliska
Vera Wang
Vietri
Herend
Crystal
Riedel
Waterford
Baccarat
Giftware
Michael Aram
Annieglass
Nambe
Kitchen
Le Creuset
All-Clad
Wusthof

Hours:
Monday - Saturday, 10:00 am - 6:00 pm

What To Do This Weekend, July 22-24

Fri, 22 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0400

This might just be one of the most delightfully stocked weekend event list we've had in a while. Why? Well, any list that combines steampunk western attire, a paint=beer currency system, and Jim Stacy's beard is a list worthy of anyone's attention. Before making your weekend plans, check out yesterday's round-up of weekend celebrations at a couple of our favorite local businesses. Then dive right into this checklist of absurdities going on around town.

WE DON'T WANT TO MISS:

Get Delicious Again! Screening at the Plaza
Sunday, July 24, 7 p.m. - 10 p.m.
Plaza Theatre
If you haven't had the pleasure of watching bearded corndog wagoneer Jim Stacy spread the goodness of Atlanta's finest eateries, you have not lived. Or at least, you haven't lived vicariously through Jim as he traverses Atlanta from hole-in-the-wall to hidden gem, like a hairier, much more awesome version of Anthony Bourdain. Catch the premiere of the latest episode, featuring Jim & co.'s latest unfancy culinary romps, this Sunday at the Plaza's free screening. Note: the screening is free, but throw a few bucks at the Plaza to thank them for hosting sweet happenings like this one.
Facebook Event

ALSO WORTH CHECKING OUT:

Weird West Saloon
Saturday, July 23, 5 p.m.
The Solarium
Weird, indeed. Gentlemen, shine up them fancy pocketwatches and dust off your best Stetson. Ladies, pour yourselves into your finest corsets. Whether you're a cowboy, outlaw, saloon harlot, or steam-spider a la Wild Wild West, all are welcome at the Artifice Club's summer event, the Weird West Saloon, at Oakhurst's Solarium. Start off perusing local wares at the Trading Post, mosey on over to the ragtime sounds of Blair Crimmins and the Hookers, bask in the burlesque glory of Talloolah Love and Her Saloon Girls, and round out the evening with yet more live acts, DJ sets, and beverages.
Event Page

Living Walls Benefit Yardsale + Party
Saturday, July 23, 9:30 a.m. - 12 a.m.
545 Oakland Avenue SE
The folks behind Living Walls are burning the midnight oil to make this year's conference a success. Turns out, in order to host an awesome artistic conference, you might need a little paint. Living Walls hosts an afternoon yard sale and evening party this Saturday to raise money for paint and other supplies. Bring cans of paint and get free yard sale items during the day; free beer at night. Or you can just bring money. Whichever form of currency you prefer, bring plenty of it so that Living Walls can do it up real fine this year.
Facebook Event

Caption This! Weekend Photo Fun

Fri, 22 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0400

Give us your best witty caption to go with this extra curious pic on Twitter or Facebook.

We'll post some of our favorites to this here website.

As for this interesting image from last week, here are some of the caption contributions:

OUR FAVORITE:

"Regulars at The Star Bar."
- Katy Killam Stedina

HONORABLE MENTIONS:

"The lady at the store said this was an original design!!!!!"
- Thomas Daniel

"I'm not sure if I like the new direction the Indigo Girls are taking."
- Will Mason

"The Dallas Cowboy Cheerleader Scabs..."
- Amy Turner Sutherland

"The NFL lockout had all types of unforeseen consequences."
- Steven Green

"We just made that iced tea into TEXAS tea, shhh. This party's about to get STARTED."
- Kristen Philipkoski

‎"I don't know about these outfits Sally. Did REAL cowgirls wear high waisted white shorts?"
Sally: ""Of course they did Debbie! Plus, once we add the stars to our vests, its gonna look totally boss!"
- Sarah Zearfoss Ruckstuhl

"Katy Perry's Last Friday Night concept."
- Hector David Villagran

"The Dallas Commuity College Cheerleaders were always willing to help out for a good cause, even turning up at the AV Club Fundraiser."
- Blair Boyd

"They may not look alike but the Texas Triplets have the numbers on the Doublemint Twins."
- Daniel David Ibarra

50% Off at Central City Tavern

Fri, 22 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0400

The Scoop: Cold beer, hot burgers, and 20something flat-screens tuned to the sports games of your choice: that's what Central City Tavern's all about, and that's what people have loved about 'em for over ten years. This family-owned watering hole on Howell Mill has always scored high among sports fans for being a perfect place to watch the game with a tasty meal and cold brew in hand. After being in Atlanta for over a decade (their original storefront was a tiny spot on the busy corner of Peachtree and Collier), Central City's burgers, artichoke dip, and low-key atmosphere have become a local favorite in Midtown.

Scout Notes: Yes, it's a sports bar. But here's the refreshing thing about Central City: walking in the front doors, you aren't greeted with a crowd of sweaty, boisterous sports fans chest-bumping each other into submission. The crowd here is laid-back, friendly, and diverse, spread out between the tavern's spacious dining room and the large, antique wooden bar. But mostly, they're thirsty. And that thirst is easy to satiate here, where the beer is always kept on ice. "There's a big taste difference between iced beer and refrigerated beer," explains co-owner Amish, and given the ungodly heat we've been feeling in the A lately, I'll take the Tavern up on their ice offer any day.

I'll also take these guys up on their food, which is made from scratch and never from a freezer bag. (Even the salad dressings are made from scratch every day.) After laying eyes on the tavern's Bleu Burger, with its perfectly charred hunk of meat topped with bleu cheese and surrounded by a spread of garlic fries, I wanted to become a huge sports fan simply so I'd have an excuse to eat it on the reg. Central City's endured a good bit of change in the past few years after leaving behind their ramshackle homestead on Peachtree and moving on to greener (and cleaner) pastures in the District at Howell Mill shopping center. But the tastiness of the food is one thing that hasn't changed, which probably explains why so many of their regulars followed them right over to Howell Mill after years of hanging out on the corner of Collier. Check them out, and you might just join that pack of regulars too.

Menu Highlights:
Bleu Burger, $8.95
Taverner Burger, $8.95
Steak Sandwich, $9.95
Blackened Chicken Alfredo, $9.95

Hours:
Monday - Saturday, 11 a.m. - 2:30 a.m.
Sunday, 11 a.m. - 12 a.m.

ATL Birthday Bashes

Thu, 21 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0400

Much like a raccoon spotting a ring of car keys, our attention span is occasionally interrupted by a shiny new thing popping up on the Atlanta horizon. But what makes Atlanta curious and wonderful isn't just the new places opening up from hood to hood -- it's also the joints that have been holding it down for a little while. You know, the restaurants, bars, shops, and other businesses that weather the storms (both economic and meteorologic) year after year to make our city a cooler place.

This weekend happens to mark anniversary celebrations for three local businesses near and dear to our hearts. Besides, we dig any place that sticks around long enough to throw a birthday party for itself.

Little Five burrito favorite and hunger antidote Elmyr turns 14 this weekend, and celebrating with a Saturday chock-full of bands, booze, and BBQ. Oh, and a dunking booth. Because nothing screams 14 like an uncomfortable wet t-shirt moment. From 2 p.m. on into the evening, the back parking lot will play host to bands like All Night Drug Prowling Wolves, Zoroaster, Hawks, Social Studies, and GG King. Elmyr, happy birthday to you. If your early tweens are anything like mine, it's about to be a rough ride consisting of braces, a misguided crush on Jello Biafra, and lots of journaling. Godspeed.

A little further up the road in Roswell, lovable attraction-turned-hipster-hangout Whirlyball isn't exactly celebrating their anniversary, but the birthday of one of the owners, as well as manager Caroline's tenth year there. That's fine, because you don't exactly have to give us an excuse to hit up a free show. Yup, free. The Summer Bash, which kicks off at 8 p.m., will be headlined by Moonlight Bride, and partygoers can hit up the courts for $5 a person.

And what better way to spend a Sunday than roasting a whole pig? That's what Chef Shane Devereux thought, and that's how TOP FLR will be celebrating their 4th anniversary -- along with goat tacos, special cocktails, and DJs like Karl Injex, Black Dominoes, Agent 45, and more, starting at 2 p.m. and ending whenever it damn wants to, thank you very much. It really feels like just last year when TOP FLR injected a much-needed dose of hip into the neighborhood around Myrtle and Ponce. We dig that it's made it to four, and we're hoping for many mooo-ooo-ooore.

Happy birfday, y'all!

50% Off at GARDEN

Thu, 21 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0400

The Scoop:By now, the Westside has pretty much staked its claim as Atlanta's go-to 'hood for all things designy—interiors, furnishings, textiles, and so on. Heck, even the restaurants look like showrooms. And with Matthew Klyn's small and exquisite jungle creeping out of the side of White Provisions, we can now include horticulture in the list of things designed best on the west. Garden is like a cross between a boutique, an art gallery, and a rainforest—a very well-designed rainforest. Filled with fresh-cut flowers, orchids, potted plants, gorgeous terrariums, and gift items like candles and home fragrances, Garden's definitely not your grandmama's stuffy old florist shop.

Scout Notes: Ever since I first noticed the retro Ford truck parked outside the space (bed filled with greenery, of course), I've been curious about Garden. But it wasn't until I first walked in that I realized how incredibly cool a floral shop can be. Now, let it be known that my thumb is far from green and, in fact, I'm of the rare breed of people that can actually neglect a cactus to death. But walking around this garden of earthly delights made me reconsider my ways. Seeing tendrils of vines draped over an old wooden ladder, orchids backed by peacock feathers, a vintage Louis Vuitton trunk filled with glass terrariums, and racks upon racks of terracotta pots overflowing with greenery was enough to convince me that maybe, just maybe, I could get some botanical creativity flowing in my own living space, even though plants currently shake in their roots when they see me coming. Who knows? Maybe with a little guidance from Garden, I too can work my way up to an orchid one day.

Beyond creating stunning landscapes for clients, Garden's specialties include succulents, terrariums, air plants, and orchids. The air plants, which don't require dirt, drape down the walls of Garden like little green curtains, and the terrariums are so carefully and creatively put together, they're like one of those ship in a bottle contraptions—except they're alive. And then there are those ever-temperamental divas of the floral world, the orchids. From the clean and simple white phalaenopsis to the curvy violet lady slipper, the orchids at Garden are lovely enough to make the extra care-taking effort worth it. Perhaps they're just playing hard to get. Or perhaps I should stick with Garden's no-water-required offerings for now—like a Voluspa candle, maybe. No matter the shade of your thumb, Garden's lush space is beautiful enough to make anyone want to dig in the dirt for a while.

Shop Highlights:
Terrariums
Orchids
Fresh-Cut Flowers
Esteban Home Fragrances
Voluspa Candles

Hours:
Tuesday - Saturday, 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Sunday, 1 p.m. - 4 p.m.
Monday, by appointment only

Meet Bookzilla, Literary Spokeslizard

Thu, 21 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0400

He's covered in scales, lives in a subterranean cave dwelling, and enjoys a pint at Twain's from time to time. Sound like just another writer? Meet Bookzilla, the fire-breathing lizard working on his memoir underneath the Decatur Square. He's also helping out with this year's AJC Decatur Book Festival, which will include a couple very special guests and over 300 more authors. Our reptilian friend was kind enough to answer a few questions about his background, his plans for the Festival, and his favorite Decatur spot to grab a cup of coffee.

SCOUT: Howdy, Bookzilla. Assuming you speak English, can you introduce yourself to our readers and tell them how they might know you?
BOOKZILLA: Why yes, I do speak English. I have a pretty monstrous vocabulary too. You might know me from the AJC Decatur Book Festival – I’m the official mascot/spokeslizard/big-time literary enthusiast. You can usually find me in downtown Decatur, trying my best not to burn down Brick Store with my fire breathing.

SCOUT: As a well-read monster, it seems like you would fit right in in, say, Brooklyn or San Francisco. Why'd you pick Atlanta to nest and wreak your literary havoc?
BOOKZILLA: There’s just something about the feeling of Decatur and the people there that makes it appealing. There is so much to do (and eat!) and the sense of community is so strong. If you don’t know what I’m talking about, there’s no better time to witness those things than at the Festival.

SCOUT: And your current projects?
BOOKZILLA: I'm working on my memoir right now. It’s a story that will leave you in stitches, and then make you reach for a box of Kleenex. I also blog, tweet, and Facebook about AJC DBF…I’m working on a couple of endorsement deals right now too.

  SCOUT: DBF is coming up in just a couple months. Can you give our readers a taste of what to look forward to?
BOOKZILLA: Picture this: The creators of a new young adult novel – the lead singer of The Decemberists, Colin Meloy and illustrator of the Lemony Snickett series, Carson Ellis –headlining a massive celebration of the written word with over 300 authors, live cooking demonstrations, a street fair, and two parades. Oh yeah, it’s free too. And I’ll be cheesin’ it on the square with all my fellow bibliophiles (You know you’d rather be there than at Dragon-Con or whatever it’s called.) 

SCOUT: Any thoughts on the current literary scene in Atlanta, and the South in general?
BOOKZILLA: It’s alive and kicking. Scratch that, thriving. Scores of authors, among them Pulitzer prize-winners and National Book awards finalists who live in the local area always participate in the festival. Also, Labor Day isn’t the only weekend when you can catch a poetry slam or hear a NYTimes bestseller give a reading in the metro. The AJC DBF sponsors author events all year round, including the Restaurant Eugene Author Dinner series.  

SCOUT: Give us some of your favorite monster-friendly hangouts in Atlanta -- restaurants, bookstores, anything.
BOOKZILLA: I love the Starlight Drive in--the only theatre with enough leg-room, but you can usually find me stomping around the Decatur Square. I do Java Monkey by day, Twain’s by night.

  SCOUT: And where in ATL does a well-read monster like yourself like to kick back and enjoy a good work of literature?
BOOKZILLA: First off, it's gotta be an Independent store. I find the customers at Little Shop of Stories to be particularly tender (kidding, I swear!) but seriously, all the indies are good.

  SCOUT: Your favorite "curious find" in Atlanta? (Although, you're a pretty curious find yourself.)
BOOKZILLA: The abandoned bank vaults under the Starbucks on the Square in Decatur. I’ve been camped out there for a while now, writing. There are gators down there that rival those I’ve seen in the sewers of New York. And I don’t just mean me…

  SCOUT:Finally, give us and our readers the lowdown on where to learn more about you and your festival.
BOOKZILLA: Decaturbookfestival.com for all the official business, and be sure to follow them on Twitter or like them on Facebook. You can also follow me for all my honest and unfiltered monster musings. @BookzillaDBF or friend me on Facebook.

50% Off at Carpe Diem Cafe Bistro

Wed, 20 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0400

The Scoop: The Latin phrase makes perfect sense here - it’s all about indulging in any and every moment of the day. Sip sexy cocktails in the lounge, do lunch outside on the patio, have a candlelit dinner for two tucked away in a cozy booth, or maybe Sunday brunch it with the fam. Any time of day you want to, er - what’s that saying? Oh yeah, Seize the Day, there’s great potential for doing just that at Decatur’s Carpe Diem. The cafe and bistro is just around the corner from Decatur Square, carrying the Apres Diem family torch in this part of town with that signature international flare, extensive wine, coffee and dessert menu. The food covers everything from brunch, to tapas and appetizers, salads, sandwiches, pastas, and entrees. Cocktails, too, of course. So come in and seize your deal with a delicious meal.

Scout Notes: We've long been fans of Apres Diem and Cabbagetown's charming Carroll Street Cafe. The international, eclectic, always-happening vibe at both just beg you to stick around for awhile, hopefully with a potential suitor and the right amount of wine. Once you step inside Carpe Diem, the sister restaurant of both, you'll see the family resemblance in the internationally-eclectic atmosphere. The lounge area makes up nearly the whole main floor, opening up to an expansive patio brimming with people. The menu here is also very familiar if you’ve been to any of the other Apres Diem establishments: plenty of European influences, Mediterranean and French, with dishes like Pork Confit, Sashimi Tuna Steak, Moroccan Spiced Salmon Filet and Bison Strip Steak.

I reverted back to an old Carroll Street fave, my favorite Nicoise salad in the city. It was just as wonderful here, though some ingredients are ever so slightly different. My new friend next to me at the bar had been on a quest for wine, but the bartender offered their specialty St. Germain cocktail, made with Plymouth gin, St. Germain Elderflower liqueur and Fleur Du Cap Sauvignon Blanc. Sure, it was wine... only a little more festive. Girlfriend was raving about every sip, so of course I’m intrigued to come back for my own wine-cocktail sampling. I’ll also be back for a patio-style brunch of $15 bottomless mimosas. And yes, I realize this all makes me sound somewhat indulgent, but hey - what can I say - maybe it's that whole “Carpe Diem” spirit here that's rubbed off on me.

Menu Recommendations:
Lobster Croistini, $8
Black Sweet Mussels, $12
Steak Frites, $22
Coq au Vin, $22
Wood-Grilled Sashimi Tuna, $22

Hours:
Monday - Thursday, 11 a.m. - 12 a.m.
Friday, 11 a.m. - 1 a.m.
Saturday, 10 a.m. - 1 a.m.
Sunday, 10 a.m. - 12 a.m.

Win A Prize If You Recognize

Wed, 20 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0400

How well do you know your city? Give us your best guess on this mystery location and we'll send a sweet, sweet prize to one lucky winner.

Reply to the Scoutmob daily email with your answer, or hit us up through Twitter or Facebook.

Last week’s answer: Tower {use unclear} at Irwin and Auburn Ave, Old 4th Ward
Last week's winner: Katy Roland

Burnaway Presents: Cultural To-Do List through July 24

Wed, 20 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0400

Prepare your calendars, because Burnaway's got a whole slew of artistic happenings for you to check off your cultural to-do list this week and weekend. In the next few days, you can catch a dozen ABV artists drinkin' and doodlin', watch art in motion with Zoetic Dance's performance at MODA, and take in the gripping portrait photography of Brian Steel at Jennifer Schwartz Gallery -- and that's just the tip of the iceberg. We'll leave it up to the always-in-the-know folks at Burnaway to give you the rest of the details, but let it be said: between a "Paint=Beer" party for Living Walls and a screening of four short films that explore post-Katrina New Orleans, there's plenty of culture to hunt this week. You really and truly have no excuse.

WEDNESDAY, JULY 20

15 Minutes Program / One-on-one Feedback Sessions for Artists
Atlanta Contemporary Art Center (ACAC) / Sessions by appointment: 2-4PM

Speaking of Photography: A Conversation with Chip Simone & Louis Corrigan
Atlanta Photography Group / 7:30PM

Drink and Doodle / 12 Artists Create Work in One Night
ABV Gallery / 9PM

THURSDAY, JULY 21

Drink In Design: Zoetic Dance Performs in the MODA Galleries
Museum of Design Atlanta (MODA) / $10 adults, $8 seniors and military, $5 students / 6-8PM

Curator Talk with Stuart Horodner / Talk and Tour of Current Exhibition
Atlanta Contemporary Art Center (ACAC) / 6:30-7:30PM

FRIDAY, JULY 22

Last Day to See: Enchantment / Shinique Smith
Trois Gallery, SCAD-Atlanta / Regular Hours: 8:30AM-5:30PM

Impaired Perceptions / Brian Charles Steel
Jennifer Schwartz Gallery / Opening Reception: 6-9:30PM

Liquid Culture / Presented by gloATL
Intersection of Peachtree Street and 15th Street / 7:30-8:30PM

Friday Fright Nights: La Moustache / Film Screening
{Poem88} / 8PM

Read the rest of the to-do list and stay up-to-date on Atlanta's arts scene over at Burnaway, arbiters of artistic awesome.

What Staff Takes Care of You?

Tue, 19 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0400

It doesn't matter whether it's a restaurant, bar, boutique, or Brazilian waxer: if a place employs a great staff of nice people, it's like a second home. Well, maybe not the waxing, but you catch our drift: we want to know your "feels just like home" spots where the staff knows how to treat you right. So we asked you: which ATL businesses have the friendliest staffs?

OUR SCOUT SAYS:

Must be the Southern hospitality, but I'm happy to say that I think there are quite a few places in ATL where the staff does a particularly awesome job of putting up with me. I most recently fell in love with the staff-folk of the Independent, who've stuck around through thick and thin at that bar for years and years. Some of the most enthusiastic and knowledgeable fine dining service I've gotten in a while has been at La Pietra Cucina, where the servers seem genuinely ecstatic to tell you about the wine list (and not in a fake way). If you hit up either of Noodle's storefronts, you're likely to catch Lenny in action, greeting guests and proudly unveiling platters of his kitchen's latest creations. And Fab'rik won my heart not just with a glass of wine, but with their super-friendly, laid-back staff. (The glass of wine was also helpful.) Speaking of booze, Hop City's Kraig & co. are beloved among Atlanta's beer guzzlers (myself included) not just for selling tasty beer, but educating my gullet on all the suds in their shop.

YOU SAYS:

"Jazmin Spa. Kathleen, Lynn and Paris Campeau are the best!"
- Sara Reid Dangel

"RuSan's in Midtown!"
- Joan Sherwood

"Pssh Hankook Taqueria all the way."
- Mela Caltabiano

"Dune Lounge, for sure!"
- Amie Marie Carey

"Kudzu Studios in grant park!"
- Andie Halsall Boyd

"GRAVEYARD TAVERN in EAV ♥ them so much!"
- Iris Belew

"World Peace Cafe in Sandy Springs!"
Kendra Robinson

"Jalisco, hands down. My mama ate there the night I was born 32 years ago, still go all the time, and Rosa, Nico, Poly and the crew always greet you by name. Had my birthday dinner there last Thursday. Then I popped over Sauced for drinks and Ria, the owner, was yelling happy birthday before I was even on the front deck. This is why I love both places so much."
- Nancy Peterson

"Becca at Sweet Grass is amazing and always makes me feel like I'm getting my hair cut by a good friend...I love her!!!"
- Amanda Jean Watkins

"Seeing this post, I had to comment and support the folks at Hop City Craft Beer and Wine on the West Side. The guys and gals there are beyond amazing. They are extremely welcoming, busting with great reccommendations, and make you feel right at home."
- Jeff Slanker

"The Iberian Pig! The last time I went in you would have thought I was a rock star! The staff was super friendly and the manager spent some time at our table making great wine choices."
- Chip Powell

"Leon's Full Service"
- Jsun Waters"

NEXT WEEK'S WHAT SAY YOU:

If you could dine al fresco anywhere in Atlanta, where would you throw your picnic blanket?

Sure, Piedmont Park's a good standby. But what about dinner in Oakland Cemetery, on the roof of the Westin, or a good old fashioned dinner party with the primates at Zoo Atlanta? You're only limited by how far you can drag a picnic basket.

We're all ears! Hit us up on Facebook or Twitter @scoutmob with your answers. And remember, there's glory to be had for the people with the best answers, so don't hold back. Really, you're only hurting yourself.

50% Off at Via Food & Bar

Tue, 19 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0400

The Scoop: Just like its three letter name, the concept behind VIA is pretty easy to grasp: sexy Miami-meets-European vibe, great food at affordable prices, and that whole “come hither” look (meaning, come for dinner and stay all night). At first glance, it may appear to be the type of place where one might have to be on some exclusive list to get in, only to be greeted with an overpriced menu and snooty clientele. Alas, the fact VIA has the requisite swanky décor with just the right amount of seduction in the air does not exactly equal pretentious. Especially when the menu focuses on wood brick oven-baked goods like Spicy Shrimp Flatbread and Prosciutto Fig Pizza. Seems more like, come hither... and get in my belly.

Scout Notes: Atlanta knows it well: that upscale-yet-relaxed, great restaurant folded into sexy lounge balancing act. A few have tried and succeeded, but more have just failed miserably. But, here VIA seems to have it down with its ocean-blue décor, plush seating, billowy white curtains, and bringing the cool-sexy vibe down to a warmer, cozier notch, with a fiery wood brick oven in the back. Thin-crust pizzas and flatbreads come out of this oven covered with wild mushroom, goat cheese, spicy coppa ham and pineapple, oven roasted chicken breast, and plenty of other divine toppings. Because of their thin, traditional Italian nature, these creations are filling enough, but won’t leave you feeling uncomfortably stuffed like if you’d eaten, say, a giant, thick-crust, meat-lovers pillow of a pizza from the delivery place down the street.

This is the kind of place I’d want to hit up for a birthday or special occasion, nosh on some flatbreads and a couple small plates, then either stay and put out the vibe by the bar or move to another Buckhead destination on foot (since VIA is right in the middle of the Buckhead scene on Pharr Road). Now, about those small plates, they may just give the pizzas a run for their money in the taste department, but lucky for you, they’re “small” so you can order both. Think mussels, Pan Seared Ahi Tuna, Filet Mignon Medallions and a Jumbo Lump Crab Cake that’s to-die-for. Word on the Pharr Road is that VIA’s late-night party nights happens on Wednesdays and weekends, so you may want to stake out your table early and hang out ‘til the wee hours. Or, if you’re anything like me, you’ll go on a Tuesday and make your own party. After all, that’s what “hithering” is all about, right?

Menu Highlights:
Jumbo Lump Crab Cake, $14.95
Pan Seared Ahi Tuna, $14.95
Margherita Pizza, $10.95
Spicy Coppa Ham and Pineapple Pizza, $14.95
Prosciutto and Fig Pizza, $14.95
Spicy Shrimp Flatbread, $9.95

Kitchen Hours:
Tuesday, 5 p.m. – 10 p.m.
Wednesday – Saturday, 5 p.m. – midnight (bar may stay open later)
Sunday, 5 p.m. – 10 p.m. (bar closes at midnight)
Closed Monday

Meet Jacqueline and Marji, Pony Up! Vintage Mavens

Tue, 19 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0400

You know how you always see those girls rocking fantastic vintage clothing even though all you can normally find at vintage stores are airbrushed "Fla$hy N Fabulous" tees in XXL? Jacqueline and Marji are those girls. The ones rocking vintage, not the fla$hy ones. These two have been scouting around the world for vintage duds together for a couple years ago, and have gotten rather good at it. They're also planning a vintage extravaganza in the coming weeks, but we'll let them tell you more about that. Meet the ladies behind Pony Up!, the vintage clothing store with nary an airbrushed Beefy Tee in sight:

SCOUT: Hi gals. How might our readers know you?
JACQUELINE: You may know us, Marji and Jacqueline, as Pony Up! Vintage, selling vintage clothing at the Indie Craft Experience festivals and around town. We offer unique, superior, quality vintage clothing and feature a selection of international vintage.
MARJI: But most likely as your friendly servers at Pura Vida and The Vortex.

SCOUT: How did y'all meet, and why did you decide to start Pony Up?
MARJI: Jacqueline and I met in college while working at the Center for Puppetry Arts. We both had a common passion for fashion and became best friends. In 2008 we were sharing a bottle of wine and drunkenly decided to go to Japan for vacation.
JACQUELINE: While in Japan we were inspired by the high caliber of American vintage there and the idea of collecting international vintage, when we got back to Atlanta we started Pony Up!

SCOUT: Clothing-wise, what era do you really belong in?
MARJI: The sixties. Mod for life!
JACQUELINE: One of our first pieces was a gray and white mod dress with pockets and I will never forget it. The sixties are what were were initially drawn to by its simple clean lines, interesting design and architectural structure.

SCOUT: What about favorite vintage pieces you've scored?
MARJI: Definitely vintage dresses from Japan and Sweden.
JACQUELINE: While in Japan, we found a green raw silk a-line dress from the 60's hand made in Osaka. It had this mid century graphic linear design that was so striking and the colors were so vibrant.

SCOUT: Favorite local shops/stores/boutiques/thrifting spots; and favorite local hangouts in general?
MARJI: I won't give up thrift store gems, but I love Rag-o-Rama in L5P, and I totally miss Clothing Warehouse by the Pound. I live and work in Poncey Highlands and tend to hang out in my neighborhood, usually at Righteous Room.
JACQUELINE: Drinks at Leon's are the jam and super tasty! Condesa Coffee rules. For shopping, I love Sole in the Edgewood shopping district. Their handbag and shoe collection is bananas.

SCOUT: How about your favorite curious find in Atlanta?
MARJI: Any place that has a badass shrimp po'boy and antique stores, specifically Kudzu Antiques and Highland Row Antiques. P.S., if you have found the best shrimp po boy in Atlanta please tell me where!
JACQUELINE: It is a little outside of Atlanta by Rome, GA, but the Howard Finster Paradise Folk Art Garden in Summerville is amazing. It is a garden built by hand in the mid-20th century by a religious zealot. Years of compiled art make up the maze of structures and sculptures. Everything in the Gardens has a meaning and incorporates all kinds of recycled materials into his art. It is pretty inspiring.

SCOUT: Tell us about what are you guys currently working on.
JACQUELINE: We are throwing an event on Saturday, August 27th. VAMP is a Vintage Apparel Market Place, featuring 15 local vintage clothing vendors, offering one-of-a-kind vintage clothes. VAMP will also feature a DJ, food, beer, and good times. We are so excited to have an event that showcases amazing vintage clothing and great vendors. We just want to share our passion with people and make them look fly.

SCOUT: Mighty nice of you. Finally, throw out a shameless plug for where people can learn more about you ladies:
JACQUELINE: Our facebook page or Our Etsy Store.

Pony Up Vintage aka Marji Ayati and Jacqueline Stringham present
V.A.M.P. /// Vintage Apparel Market Place
Saturday August 27, 2011 from 11am to 6pm at
Scott Lowden Photography Studio
634 North Highland Ave Atlanta, GA (Next to Youngblood Gallery)

Showcasing an amazing vintage apparel market featuring local vintage clothing vendors!

Interested in being a vendor? More info at VampAtl.tumblr.com

50% Off at The Big Chow Grill

Mon, 18 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0400

The Scoop: Picky eaters, those with tricky dietary requirements, and diners who are never quite satisfied with their meal: rejoice. Perhaps the most customizable meal you can get outside your own kitchen, Big Chow Grill offers not one but two stir-fry lines where you can mix and match your bowl to your heart's content. The formula is basic enough—start with rice or noodles; pile on your veggies and extras; beef it up with meat, seafood, or veg-friendly protein options; sprinkle on a pinch of herbs or a dash of spice; ladle on your choice of sauce; sit back and watch the smoke rise as chefs cook your bowl of concoctions into a delicious meal. You get to be the culinary artist who dreams up your masterpiece while the chefs do all the legwork. And then, you get to eat said masterpiece. Sounds like art to us.

Scout Notes: A vegetarian, pescatarian, meatatarian, allergic-to-everythingtarian, and a marsupial walk into a restaurant. If said restaurant happens to be Big Chow Grill, they'll most likely all be able to find something yummy to eat. The founders of Big Chow Grill have been creating Atlanta's favorite stir-fry since '05; growing their fair share of faithful followers every year since. Yes, it's technically a buffet, but don't let images of Shoney's dissuade you from filling your own bowl to the brim with noodles, veggies, and whatever else tickles your taste buds (along with supplemental sustenance from Big Chow's appetizers -- potstickers, egg rolls, and more yummy goodness). You can keep it as simple as a basic Asian veggie stir-fry, or go as quirky as you want, but rest assured knowing that if you go a little overboard and cram a little too much excitement into your bowl, you can always go back for seconds. Assuming you're still feeling peckish after your first go-round, that is. If you're still hungry for more after your subsequent go-rounds, you'll want to check out Big Chow's dessert menu.

For those who are not domestically inclined, who are frozen in fear at the sight of unprepared food, there's still hope. If you're not fully confident in your culinary creativity, Big Chow helpfully provides some guidance in the form of their recipe cards. Left to one's own devices, though, you could conceivably create the next big thing right there in your bowl. Pineapple chunks with steak and oyster sauce? That's so fusion. Your next stop might be Top Chef. Til then, Big Chow's a fine place to hone your skills and satisfy your palate.

Menu Highlights:
Chicken Potstickers, $3.99
Unlimited Lunch, Monday - Friday, $8.99
Unlimited Dinner, Monday - Friday, $12.99
Edamame, $3.99
Egg Rolls, $3.99
Big Chow Brownie Sundae, $5.50
Seasonal Sorbets, $3.50
Hours:
Monday - Thursday, 11 a.m. - 10 p.m.
Friday, 11 a.m. - 11 p.m.
Saturday, 12 p.m. - 11 p.m.
Sunday, 12 p.m. - 10 p.m.

What To Do On The Weeknights, July 18-21

Mon, 18 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0400

A play about nudie bars, a trolley tasting tour, and a Lasershow Spectacular in Mountainvision. Just saying it makes my week feel better already. Actually, saying that last one kind of makes me feel like a super hero. Gird your loins for some off-the-beaten-path weeknight happenings. And as hard as it might be, try to keep your clothes on during all of these activities.

WE DON'T WANT TO MISS:

Taste and Tour of Cheshire Bridge
Wednesday, July 20 and Thursday, July 21, 5 p.m. - 10 p.m.
A trolley that takes you up and down one of Atlanta's most curious stretches of pavement, stopping for snack runs on the reg? Sounds like our ideal road trip. This guided tour (pictured) of Cheshire Bridge will give interested patrons a taste of a dozen restaurants, including Perla Taqueria, Nakato Japanese, and the Colonnade, all for one crisp Andrew Jackson. And no, Onyx is not on the list. Yet.
Taste and Tour of Cheshire Bridge

ALSO WORTH CHECKING OUT:

VIP Room
Dad's Garage
Monday, July 18, 8 p.m.
Word on the street is that the newest scripted production out of Dad's is not one to be missed (unless nudity and adult humor make you uncomfortable, in which case you probably don't enjoy the awesome shows at Dad's anyway). VIP Room explores one man's story through the strip club culture of our very own city—you know, the one that happens to be the home of both the Clermont and the Cheetah, somehow. Though the show usually only runs Thursday through Saturday, Dad's is giving us all a special Monday night treat this week. It's also "pay what you can" night, so give 'em some good lovin'.
VIP Room

Lasershow at Stone Mountain
Daily, through August 7, 9:30 p.m.
Nope, this isn't a special event, but it's something that every Atlantan needs to do at least once during the summer. Pack your picnic wisely, because this adventure in patriotic pyrotechnics lasts 45 minutes and includes musical stylings from artists like Charlie Daniels, Lynyrd Skynyrd, the Allman Brothers, and Boston. The show's coming fresh off of a $4 million makeover, too -- fancy name included. There are only a few weeks of being able to catch the Lasershow Spectacular in Mountainvision any ol' day of the week, so take advantage while you can.
Lasershow at Stone Mountain

Eat. Drink. Repeat Presents: No. 246, An Italian Food Symphony

Mon, 18 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0400

Hear that? That's the sound of some serious buzz going around about a brand-new little Italian restaurant in Decatur that seems to have won hearts and piqued curiosity within days of its grand opening. No. 246 has been keeping us curious for a while, and when we heard that trusty local scout Sarah-Ann (of Eat. Drink. Repeat) had tested the waters on opening night, we were intrigued. Check out what Sarah-Ann has to say about the new eatery, and if you happen to pop in No. 246 this week, let us know what you think.

As a former Park Slope, NY resident, I can attest to the fact that Brooklyn is practically perfection. Quaint shops, talented artists, pre-war brownstones and of course, incredible food. So when I moved to Atlanta, I needed to find my fix. A neighborhood that embodied all those things, and reminded me of home. But most importantly, that could replace my food cravings. Once you’ve been to Al Di La, you’ll understand what I mean. So when Chefs Ford Fry and Drew Belline announced the opening of No. 246 in Decatur, my interest was piqued.

Most chefs would love to have the successes that Chefs Fry and Belline already have under their belts (JCT Kitchen, Quinones at Bacchanalia, Floataway Cafe). So it’s no surprise there’s been a lot of buzz around this opening...and as suspected, it lives up to the hype.

A welcome departure from the meat-centric restaurants of the south, No. 246 is Italian-inspired cuisine that is influenced by seasonality and local products. “We’re trying to make the food at No. 246 more about vegetables and dishes that guests can eat every day,” says Belline. “The menu is driven by what local producers have to offer.”

Curious? Keep reading at Eat. Drink. Repeat, and give Sarah-Ann a hand for braving a new restaurant's waters. It's a tough job, but someone's gotta do it.

50% Off at Olive Bistro

Sun, 17 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0400

The Scoop:That cozy, family-run Mediterranean joint that you've been searching for? You know, the one with crispy falafel, hummus from a family recipe, and spicy stuffed grape leaves, all made to order? Well, we found it. But we're not the first. In fact, folks from all over Midtown have been happily stumbling upon this Mediterranean gem for over a decade, and for good reason. Maybe it's that tantalizing scent of lamb kabobs wafting out the front door, or maybe it's the fresh, homemade, authentic food being served up daily. Whatever the case, we're not going to question it... as long as that falafel keeps coming.

Scout Notes: Since the bistro's move to the shopping center across from City Hall East ten years ago, it's become a neighborhood favorite for tasty, fresh Middle Eastern comfort food in a cozy, laid-back setting. Chef-owned and operated, it's also a place where local Georgia produce can be transformed into a cuisine from overseas, as Olive Bistro uses as many locally sourced ingredients as possible. The chef even goes to the farmer's markets himself and picks out the produce himself when he can. It's just like the Middle Eastern family you never had.

You know how some Mexican restaurants serve authentic, delicious queso, and others served a glorified bowl of Velveeta? That's how Kay compares Olive Bistro's hummus: true to the traditional recipe, flavorful, fresh, and never made from canned chickpeas. Oh, and the chef's own Mediterranean family recipe. And once I dipped my toasted pita bread into that hummus, I totally understood -- it's smooth, garlicky, and nothing like those processed versions you might find in the supermarket up the street. It's not just the hummus that's top-notch; the premium feta is imported straight from the Mediterranean, and everything is spiced just right. Meaning, you aren't getting some watered-down Americanized version of stuffed grape leaves or falafel, but a punch-packing burst of authentic flavor. The grape leaves are tangy and spicy; the falafel crispy; the tzatziki rich and creamy; and all of it is just waiting to be washed down with a glass of vino from Olive's wine list or a cold bottle of Greek suds. Kay and her husband, the chef, started Olive Bistro as a Little Five Points eatery thirteen years ago, and still see regular faces from those days in their Ponce bistro. I guess once you give us Atlantans a real taste of the Mediterranean, we just can't get enough.

Menu Highlights:
Hummus, $5.99
Baba Ghanouge, $6.99
Dolmas, 4 for $5.99, 6 for $7.99
Falafel, $5.99
Gyro, $6.99
Tabbouleh, $8.99
Lasagna, $8.99

Hours:
Open Daily, 11 a.m. - 9 p.m.

50% Off at Collage Boutique (Brookhaven)

Sat, 16 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0400

The Scoop: What happens when you mix a colorful, exotic world market with a fashionable Brookhaven boutique? If Collage is any indication, it seems like you get a shop filled with a kaleidoscope of unique apparel, accessories, and art. With over a dozen different countries represented in their inventory, Collage is definitely not your average mall store or clothing shop. Brookhaven's own bazaar offers unique and interesting goods from all over the world--and an unofficial guarantee that no one else will be wearing your exact same outfit.

Scout Notes: I enjoy boutique shopping as much as any other hip, fashion-forward, Kate Moss lookalike does. But often, when boutique-ing from place to place, I see the same things over and over again. Another pair of those same designer jeans; another shiny, baubley necklace, and... wait, haven't I seen those exact chandelier earrings somewhere else? That's why as soon as I set foot in Collage, I fell in love: deep, romantic, sartorial love with the exotic and delightfully unusual garments, jewels, and other accessories on display at this boutique. From the moment I first laid eyes on the Desigual streetwear from Barcelona, the handmade frocks from India, and the jewelry collection made from Andean acai seeds, I knew I wasn't in Kansas (or the Gap) anymore.

Thirteen different countries are represented on the racks and cases of Collage, and it makes for a shopping experience that's downright fascinating -- like you're in a museum or exploring abroad, not looking for a cute dress in a boutique. And if you don't have the guts to rock some of the ultra-bohemian dresses, Collage has plenty of contemporary ready-to-wear pieces that you can wear with little to no fear of someone else wearing the same outfit. Oh, and speaking of museum, don't miss the jewelry selection. Handcrafted pieces by artists both local and abroad, the pieces are quite a few steps beyond your average costume jewelry selection at some boutiques in town. One-of-a-kind earrings hang out right next to bracelets made of seeds from South American rainforests and colorful necklaces created right here in Atlanta. It's a modern-day bazaar right in the middle of Brookhaven's own TOWN, and it's a welcome change from the generic clothing chains of yore.

Store Highlights:
Desigual
The Andean Collection
Zia Jewelry
Johnny Was
Judith March
Yany Bags
Camper Shoes
Miz Mooz
Tano Bags
Scrapbook Apparel
Nick & Mo

Hours:
Monday - Wednesday, 11 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Thursday - Saturday, 11 a.m. - 9 p.m.
Sunday, 12 p.m. - 5 p.m.

50% Off at Gigi's Cupcakes (Sandy Springs)

Fri, 15 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0400

The Scoop: They're pocket-sized little desserts, but don't be fooled: they pack a powerful punch. Also, you should probably refrain from actually putting them in your pockets (they've got boxes for that). While we Atlantans certainly love our cupcakes, the folks manning the racks at Gigi's take it to another level. Each little treat is topped with a tower of delicious frosting (buttercream or cream cheese) that will send your sweet tooth straight up to heaven faster than cake and ice cream at a kid's birthday party. Yup, if you were ever one of the kids who insisted on having a corner piece of that birthday cake, prepare to meet your match. These colorful, creative little works of sugary art are just as tasty as they look.

Scout Notes: Walking in to the shop on Hammond Drive is a little like entering a very sugary art gallery: those sweet little creations in their display cases immediately draw your attention. Perhaps it's the rainbow of colors, with flavors ranging from red velvet to midnight magic. Or maybe it's the fact that each cupcake is its own little work of art, with that buttercream frosting sitting like a crown on top and any combination of chocolate chips, sugar crystals, graham cracker crumbs, powdered sugar, nonpareils, toasted coconut,... you get the picture. Some of those cupcakes looked as labor-intensive (and delicious) as some of the prettiest cakes I've seen, and you can't help but to ooh and ahh at them as soon as you see the case. And thanks to the fact that Gigi's cupcake selection changes daily, there's a perfectly good excuse to visit every day of the week.

Oh, and if you're looking for something a little different in your cupcake, take comfort in knowing that Gigi's isn't just a matter of chocolate versus vanilla. The flavor concoctions are creative and a little kooky, in a good way -- the spring and summer menu, for example, features creations like key lime, coconut cream pie, cherry limeade (topped with a straw), lemon icebox, and orange dreamsicle. If you're craving something a little more, er, spiked, there are also the champagne, margarita, and Kentucky bourbon pie cupcakes. And for the chocolate addicts, there are plenty of options: think chocolate cream pie, chocolate salted caramel, chocolate malt, Texas milk chocolate... need we go on? Probably not, because you're probably already eyeing the case right next to us. Just remember: "sugar coma" is not an option. Or maybe it's just a challenge.

Menu Highlights:
Scarlett's Red Velvet
Strawberry Shortcake
Hunka Chunka Banana Love
Lemon Dream Supreme
Midnight Magic Chocolate Chip
Cupcakes are $3 each or $2.75 by the dozen.

Hours:
Monday - Wednesday, 9 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Thursday, 9 a.m. - 8 p.m.
Friday, 9 a.m. - 9 p.m.
Saturday, 10 a.m. - 9 p.m.

What To Do This Weekend, July 15-17

Fri, 15 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0400

Allow us to emerge from our ice-shanty for a moment in order to tell you how to keep your mind off this godforsaken heat for the weekend. Yeah, it's hot, and sure, you might just want to stay submerged in your ice bath for a couple more days (or months), but between shoe-planting, malicious tomatoes, and a two-night sweatstravaganza at the Earl, there's a good amount of weekend happenings worth working up a sweat over. Simply bring a parasol and a kerchief, and you'll make it through.

WE DON'T WANT TO MISS:

Attack of the Killer Tomato Festival
Sunday, July 17, 1 p.m. - 5 p.m.
JCT Kitchen
To-may-toe or to-mah-toe? And also, is it a vegetable or a fruit? Before you smartypants get all botanically correct on us, allow me to point you to US Supreme Court Case Nix v. Hedden. Now that that's settled, let's celebrate these juicy ~~fruits~~ vegetables at JCT Kitchen's Attack of the Killer Tomato Festival. Tomato dishes, signature cocktails, fancy judges, live entertainment, and an all-around boot-scootin' Sunday afternoon, all benefitting Georgia Organics.
Tomato Fest Online

ALSO WORTH CHECKING OUT:

Dance Truck Shoe Planting Party
Saturday, July 16, 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Garden*Hood
It's one of the contemporary troupe's most ambitious projects to date, and they need your help with all your heart and... sole. If you didn't know that shoes can be planted and nurtured to create art, now you do. Dance Truck's shoe-planting party takes place this Saturday afternoon in Grant Park's own Garden*Hood. They supply the dirt, water, and plants; you provide the TLC that little shoe needs to one day grow into a strong, sturdy piece of art for Dance Truck's PLOT performance.
GardenHood Events

Die Slaughterhaus 10-Year Anniversary Party
Friday, July 15, and Saturday, July 16, 9 p.m.
The Earl
It's been a decade since this Atlanta record company (pictured) first started shaking things up in the Atlanta music scene. Since then, they've brought us acts like Deerhunter, the Black Lips, Coathangers, and more. Give 'em a high five at their two-day celebration festival this weekend at the Earl with sets from Gentleman Jesse, the Frantic, Husseins, Beat Beat Beat, and more.
The Earl Events

Caption This! Weekend Photo Fun

Fri, 15 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0400

Give us your best witty caption to go with this extra curious pic on Twitter or Facebook.

We'll post some of our favorites to this here website.

As for this interesting image from last week, here are some of the caption contributions:

OUR FAVORITE:

"This recession is hitting everyone."
- Andrew Jackson

HONORABLE MENTIONS:

"In this struggling economy, Wayne Enterprises was forced to liquidate most of their assets, including their "Research and Development Department.""
- Lee Johnson

"Batmare & Robin"
- Jonathan Ciak

"Batman tried in veign to get Robin to stop horsing around and take fighting crime seriously."
- Michael Rock

"Holy haberdashery, Kimosabe!"
- Donna Shepper

"To this day, that's the closest Robin ever got to driving the Batmobile."
- @TheBreen

"Next Week: Supervillian Rancher Bob has transformed our heroes with his Domestication Device! Holy Horseshoes, Batman! Will the Dynamic Duo be able to slip the bit and regain their true forms? Tune in next week at the same Bat Time on the same Bat Channel!"
- Ilikeanna Sfg

"At least he didn't dress me up like My Little Pony again. I had glitter in my hooves for days..."
- Sarah Ann Ludwig

"When little Johnny asked for a superhero get-up he didn't expect to be riding an old nag dressed in drag."
- Melissa Wall Hill

50% Off at Saravana Bhavan

Thu, 14 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0400

The Scoop: Meet one of Atlanta's best places to fill up on spicy, flavorful Southern cuisine. And no, we're not talking about the okra and hoop skirts kind of Southern. This Lawrenceville Highway hole-in-the-wall specializes in South Indian cuisine, starring more rice, more spice, and more tropical flavors like coconut and mango.The restaurant, an export from Tamil Nadu, serves headily seasoned South Indian dishes with not a scrap of meat in the whole place -- it's all veggies (and rice) all the time, all made to order and all exhilarating adventures for your taste buds. We love us some Southern food, but this kind of Southern is a whole new bag of lentils.

Scout Notes: I enjoy Indian food, but I'm no expert by any means--I just know that I like it, a lot. So you can imagine my glee when I discovered that samosas, curries, and naan are truly just the tip of the iceberg -- and that there's a spot off of Lawrenceville Highway that goes even deeper into the cuisine. Saravana Bhavan specializes in South Indian fare, with a deliciously flavorful and extensive menu covering all the bases: crispy dosas, fluffy uttapams, savory idlis... and that's just the bread items. With a 150-item menu, it might seem a little overwhelming for a first-timer like me, but you could really just close your eyes and point. Plus, manager Raj is more than happy to guide your way through the flavors (and correct pronunciation) of his restaurant's cuisine.

One thing I've come to discover about Atlanta: some of the tastiest gems are tucked away behind strip mall walls. Saravana is living proof of that. Tucked in an aging shopping center caddycorner to the North Dekalb Mall, no one on earth could possibly imagine what sort of delights lay behind that modest front door. You'll probably get an idea of it as soon as you walk inside and are A). totally tantalized by the heady, spicy scents coming from the kitchen, and B). possibly already gluing your face to the window of the open kitchen, watching the chefs work their magic inside. Keep an eye on the man working on the dosas, because you might learn a thing or two. He's been doing it for nearly thirty years, which explains why they've enjoyed cult status among Saravana's diners. Or at least that's one of the reasons. Others could include the mouthwatering pots of curry, spicy sides of sambar, roasted cottage cheese kadai paneer, theli sampler platter, sweet and rich mango lassi, or creamy caradamom payasam dessert. I could keep going, but let's be honest: it'd be rather exhausting to list out all the delicious items on that 150-item menu. Besides, all that food isn't going to order itself. Better get yourself up to Decatur and get a headstart.

Menu Highlights:
Dosas, $7 - $9.25
Idlis, $4
Uthappams, $6.50 - $8
Channa Masala Curry, $8.75
Mixed Vegetable Parotta, $7.25
Channa Batura, $8
Pasayam, $3.50

Hours:
Monday - Friday, Lunch: 11:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.
Monday - Friday, Dinner: 5:30 p.m. - 10 p.m.
Saturday - Sunday, 11:30 a.m. - 10 p.m.

Meet Taria and Ashley, Atlanta's Sugar-Coated Radicals

Thu, 14 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0400

Sugar-Coated Radical is not a chocolate shop, and Taria Camerino is not a chocolatier. At least, she's not just a chocolatier. Taria and her business partner, Ashley Henson, are selling a sweet revolution out of a tiny white cottage at the end of a dead-end street, and Atlantans are starting to catch on. Seeking to change the model of cacao and sugar commerce, improve farmers' quality of life, end unethical practices in trade, and generally shake things up a little... one lollipop at a time? It's a revolution we can get behind.

After pastry-cheffing at some of Atlanta's most high-profile eateries (her most recent stint was at Highland Bakery), Taria realized her need for a more creative outlet could only be met by taking the entrepreneurial dive. But don't think that Sugar-Coated Radical is just another small business in Atlanta. "I look at this as an arts platform, a platform for change," she says. Indeed, no one at Sugar-Coated Radical is simply shilling candy for cash. Taria explains it as more akin to an arts organization than a food business, where genius and creativity are manifested in the form of Taria's confections, all of which are created on a foundation of ethics. The dairy is locally sourced; the boxes are recycled, the bags are compostable; even the signage and displays are made from found or used cardboard material. Perhaps most importantly, both the chocolate and the sugar are all purchased fair-trade or direct-trade from farmers all around the world. Chocolate and sugar: sweet, delicious, but dirty industries polluted with unethical practices, all of which Taria is trying to challenge and change with lollipops and chocolate bars.

"Genius can happen at any moment, in any place." Taria spoke those words (or some variation on them) a few times while we talked, and it's one of her guiding principles for Sugar-Coated Radical. In her case, that genius is manifested in the kitchen and displayed on the long table in the shop on Drewry Street. Chipotle caramels with a hell of a kick. Tobacco-dusted chocolates with an inner layer of red wine gelee. Chocolate made from the cacao of Sao Tome with toasted semolina and parmesan. Caramelized milk fudge with pink peppercorns. The flavor combinations that Taria creates are surprising, unexpected, even sometimes a bit crazy, but unfailingly delicious. She tells us that she sees flavors as people from all around the world in one room, and chocolate as their unifying language. They've captured the attention of the Cooking Channel and TBS, along with the sweet-toothed and curious Atlantans who meander down Drewery Street in search of something a little different. And according to Taria, the best ingredient of all is the fact that they will never sacrifice flavor or quality for their ethics. She laughs about her reputation in the industry for "being an ass" in her push for more ethical practices, but Taria's dead serious about what she's working toward.

"We're not just selling chocolate and candy -- we're selling a revolution. It's a pretty tough sell. People would rather have chocolate. But I don't know how to take the revolution out of the chocolate. You don't have to buy into the revolution, but you do need to know that you're supporting it. And, I mean, it's a revolution that's... candy. How hard can it be? It's not like I'm asking people to starve."

Forty to fifty million people depend on the cocoa trade for their livelihood. If nibbling on a couple of Taria and Ashley's handcrafted sweets help these Radicals make that world a little bit better, we're game.

Find the Radicals at their storefront at 680 Drewry Street and on the web at SugarCoatedRadical.org.

City Hall East Gettin' Purtied Up

Thu, 14 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0400

They said it could never be done. We said it should be turned into a giant indoor paintball course. But this? This will do. Jamestown Properties announced on Monday the official closing on the sale of that great lumbering brick giant straddling Ponce and North Avenue that once served as the Sears building. At approximately 75 zillion square feet (er, make that 2 million), City Hall East is a gargantuan piece of historic architecture. And if Jamestown (the group behind the Westside Urban Market) follows through on its promise, the building will be revitalized and filled with retail, dining, office, and residential spaces by 2014.

We'd dig it even more if there was paintball involved. But for now, we suppose renovating one of Atlanta's most important historical structures and filling it up with local goodness is a good alternative. The renderings look promising. We can dig it.

(PS: Three years is a long time to wait, so wile away the hours looking through this photo slideshow of Creative Loafing's expedition into the annals of the vacant building.)

PonceCityMarket.com

50% Off at MidCity Cafe

Wed, 13 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0400

The Scoop: You might not see it the first time you zoom down West Peachtree, but just look for the cheery orange umbrellas. Like its European counterparts, this cafe and lounge is on the small side but full of people, energy, and well mixed drinks. And like the neighborhood it resides in, it's got a little bit of everything. There's the sleek Midtown lounge vibe; the European feel of a neighborhood cafe; and the small but tasteful (and tasty) menu of Vietnamese sandwiches, salads, and bites with fixins from famed BuHi outpost Lee's Bakery. After all, banh mi is a pretty tasty update on your standard booze 'n food pairings—we'll take sammies from Lee's Bakery over another greasy reuben any day. Yup, Midcity's got a couple different ingredients going on, but they all come together in a pretty delicious way.

Scout Notes: These little cafes are a dime a dozen in certain other cities around the world, and that's something that co-owner Simon wanted to bring to Atlanta when he started Midcity with his brother in 2004. Call me crazy, but there's something about a tiny little cocktail bar that just feels more comfortable than a huge, booming warehouse of nightlife. Maybe it's the fact that you can actually carry on a conversation—or maybe I'm just turning into a modern-day Boo Radley. Either way, the atmosphere at Midcity is surprisingly laid-back and friendly for a place that serves such fancy-sounding cocktails. Word on the street is that Midcity's espresso martini is the best in town—in fact, general manager Joel challenges anyone to find a better one. That's a challenge I can accept.

Beyond the handcrafted cocktails, the dozen or so variations of martinis, and the handpicked beer selection, there's the food. It only takes up a tiny bit of the menu, but it's definitely not an afterthought. The Southeast Asian-influenced dishes are the perfect complement to all those martinis you're knocking back: tasty, substantial, but not a dead weight in your stomach, either. Midcity's most popular dishes are the banh mi selections, and after trying both the tofu and pork versions, I can see why. Y'know that beloved little international bakery up on Buford Highway? Well, Mr. Lee's bread, pickled daikon, and other ingredients make their cameos on these Vietnamese sammies at Midcity, and it is so good. I never would have thought a little cafe on West Peachtree was serving up some of the best Vietnamese sandwiches in Midtown, but Midcity proved me wrong. And I'm actually okay with that.

Menu Highlights:
Banh Mi Sandwiches, $5.95 - $8.95
Vermicelli Noodle Bowls, $7.95 - 8.95
Espresso Martini, $9
French Toast Martini, $9
Midcity Martini, $9

Hours:
Monday - Thursday, 11 a.m. - 12 a.m.
Friday, 11 a.m. - 3 a.m.
Saturday, 12 p.m. - 3 a.m.

Win A Prize If You Recognize

Wed, 13 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0400

Giving a You-Know-What about Atlanta's art scene

Wed, 13 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0400

Last year, Living Walls started making history with its inaugural conference right here in Atlanta, bringing in over a dozen of the world's most innovative and talented street artists. The conference addresses street art, urbanism, and making alternative use of public spaces. We are fortunate that it is returning this August with almost double the amount of participants, and with that comes a seriously hardworking group of artists and art-lovers busting it to make it happen again. Their goal is to have conversations with the city of Atlanta about street art and show how it your walls should start a dialogue with the community. Thursday night (that's tomorrow, y'all), there is a fundraiser called "Why Do We Give A Sh!t?", to support the upcoming conference. It ain't no bake sale, nor a date auction, nor a themed costume party (though feel free to wear a costume if you wish). There's going to be a flood of creative juices all up in Whitespace Gallery tomorrow night.

The game hasn't necessarily changed, but the new players are stepping up to attempt making history. There are tons of people making strides, so a select few of the brightest young things are eager to share their missions and messages with those who are willing to hear. Because at the end of the day they want to live in a city that is worth caring about. And frankly, that is why they give a sh!t.

Atlanta is getting up there in the art world and right now is it's more important than ever to bridge together disciplines, media, and ideas. These "little engines that could" are inviting the city of Atlanta to Whitespace Gallery this Thursday to give the quick & dirty dirty on who they are and why they give a sh!t about the city of Atlanta. Leaders from organizations like Atlanta Soul Project, Dodekapus, Esoteric Lore, Dashboard Co-Op, the Creatives Project, Couch Couch, Young, Foxy & Free will be raising awareness about their projects, opening up to questions and discussions, sharing their point of views, and inviting others to join in.

All of the interested public is invited to come get some education on these young art groups, what they are doing, their missions and why they care. Entry is $40, which provides dinner, booze, a musical performance from Muleskinner MacQueen, the presentations, the connections, and most importantly, the funds needed to make "Living Walls, The City Speaks" a success (again). All funds go directly to Living Walls, an amazing group of people getting very creative with their resources to make something monumental happen in Atlanta. Please tell your networks to join in on this evening, make a donation if they are unable to attend, and get the word out about both Living Walls and the Atlanta art scene in general.

Here's what some of the scheduled speakers have to say about their organization, art in Atlanta, and why they give a... well, you get it.

DODEKAPUS: Dodekapus is a unified energy of active multi-media artists who support each other, the community, and other positive initiatives through collaborative experiential expression. We give a sh!t because we love Atlanta, and we have a really great thing going but we -- yes, everyone living in this amazingly brilliant and vibrant city -- need MORE unity, MORE collaboration, MORE support, MORE appreciation, MORE creativity, MORE conversation, MORE involvement, MORE curiosity, MORE sharing, MORE fun, MORE stimulation, MORE volunteering, MORE enthusiasm, MORE thought, MORE determination, MORE accessibility, MORE vigor, and MORE love. We all just deserve it. We deserve MORE. Dodekapus.org

The Creatives Project (TCP): We give a sh!t because ATL feeds our art heart! Through the arts, education, community, and commerce, we will forge a new path to a better Atlanta; creating an arts ecosystem that will nourish ALL of its parts. No sense in to trekking to New York, Los Angeles. or Miami to "get you some" ... Atlanta has plenty of love to give! TCP <3's YOU, and <3's that you <3 us back! TheCreativesProject.org

Young, Foxy & Free: Young, Foxy & Free is a free quarterly culture magazine in Athens and Atlanta that promotes creativity and distributes creative work in the community. We are excited about Atlanta's potential as a new art city, its potential to set an example for other culture centers in the region, and the efforts underway in Atlanta's arts community to bridge disciplines, encourage collaboration, and bring more art to the public. YoungFoxyFree.com

Giving a you-know-what yet? Check out the event on Facebook, tell everyone you know about Living Walls, and give a high-five to all these movers 'n shakers in Atlanta's creative community.