Big Pie in the Sky Pizzeria, Kennesaw, GA

Think you can eat a lot of pizza? Prove it.

by Anna Bentley | July 26, 2010

Plenty of Atlanta-area pizza joints boast fresh ingredients, flavorful sauces and interesting topping combinations, but only one can claim that it’s been featured on prime-time national television: Kennesaw’s Big Pie in the Sky Pizzeria.

Fans of Travel Channel’s “Man v. Food” remember Big Pie in the Sky as the home of the Carnivore Challenge, featuring a gut-busting 30-inch, 11-pound pizza that teams of two must consume entirely in one hour. …

Muss & Turner’s, Smyrna/Vinings, GA

Sometimes the hype is right

by Anna Bentley | July 23, 2010

Do you ever plan meals while you’re eating other meals? I do. Frequently. While stuffing my face full of potato taquitos at lunch, I was imagining how delicious my next round of face-stuffing would be at Smyrna/Vinings’ Muss & Turner’s.

My friend Heather turned me onto Muss & Turner’s after hearing great things about its sandwiches. Truthfully, I was kind of expecting one of those pretentious places that serve high-brow, high-price -- …

Imagine It! The Children’s Museum of Atlanta, Atlanta, GA

Where learning is child's play

by Anna Bentley | July 19, 2010

It’s a shame I don’t have a toddler, because I think I would love Imagine It! The Children’s Museum of Atlanta. When I was younger and more resistant to social norms, I frequented museums, movies and music sections of Best Buy obviously targeted to children, but I think this one might be pushing it. Meaning, your kid will totally love this place.

At Imagine It!, play reigns supreme. Each of the five …

Coca-Cola Summer Film Festival at the Fox Theatre, Atlanta, GA

Catch some classic films on Atlanta’s biggest screen

by Anna Bentley | July 16, 2010

When I was about 6 or 7, my mother took my brother and me to dinner at the Old Spaghetti Factory on Ponce de Leon (it’s since closed) and then to see "Hook," arguably Robin Williams’ best film, at the Fox Theatre. To a 6-year-old, that’s a pretty fancy night. I even got a souvenir glass from dinner!

I’ve always remembered that night fondly and wondered if I went again as an adult, would …

The Tabernacle, Atlanta, GA

The Tabernacle's holy history

by Anna Bentley | July 12, 2010

Choosing Atlanta's best live music venue was hard for me. So hard. I love music, and I love seeing live music, so I also love a lot of this city's venues: East Atlanta's EARL, where I've spent many summer nights discovering new bands and generally acting a fool; Little Five's Variety Playhouse, where the lights throw huge shadows on the side brick walls, framing the band with a larger-than-life shadow show; or Chastain Park Amphitheatre, …

Lake Allatoona, Cartersville, GA

Fun fact: Its government-given name is actually "Allatoona Lake," but that never quite caught on

by Anna Bentley | July 06, 2010

If we’re being honest here, lakes kind of creep me out. I’ve always been wary of swimming in areas where I cannot see what is in the water with me. Fish nibble on your toes with no warning, and there’s really no way to confirm it’s a fish and not some horrific lake creature that never sees the sunlight. Plus everyone’s favorite lake pastime, tubing, has never held the same appeal to me. I tried …

Midtown Festival of the Arts, Atlanta, GA

What's that? Another new festival in Atlanta?

by Anna Bentley | July 05, 2010

I’ve been blogging here less than a month and this is the second brand new Atlanta festival I’ve written about. What can I say? This is a city that loves its festivals -- and its neighborhoods. The Midtown Festival of the Arts, announced just under a week ago, will be held September 25 and 26, 2010 celebrating Peachtree Street’s “Midtown Mile” from 5^th Street to 10^th Street.

“The two-day neighborhood event promises …

Unplugged in the Park Summer Concert Series, Atlanta, GA

99x's chill summer series returns for its 8th consecutive year

by Anna Bentley | July 01, 2010

Of all of Atlanta’s free summer concert series, past and present, I have to say 99x’s Unplugged in the Park is one of my favorites. It’s got a great location (Park Tavern, overlooking Piedmont Park and Midtown), it's pretty low-key (as the name implies, it's an acoustic series), it’s not too crowded (21 and up only) and it’s air conditioned – big plus.

It's also the longest-running free summer concert …

Nuevo Laredo Cantina, Atlanta, GA

Mexican that's worth the wait

by Anna Bentley | June 28, 2010

I’m about to confess something to you guys. It’s kind of hard for me. Even though I’ve lived in Atlanta my whole life, I made it to the ripe old age of 25 before visiting Nuevo Laredo Cantina, one of Atlanta’s most highly lauded – and fiercely loved – Mexican dining establishments. Me, who cannot go a week without some delicious queso and chips (preferably served alongside a frozen margarita): 25 years.

…

Downtown Restaurant Week, Atlanta, GA

For those seeking delicious food at a delicious price

by Anna Bentley | June 24, 2010

Problem: You’re visiting Atlanta next month and want to try some of the city’s best restaurants, but you don’t want to blow your whole vacation budget in the process. Solution: Downtown Restaurant Week, Atlanta’s annual week-long food fest, upgraded to a whole two weeks this year.

This year’s event, running from July 26 to August 8, features more than two dozen Atlanta restaurants offering Downtown diners three-course meals for either $25 or $35 …

4th of July Celebration, Centennial Olympic Park, Atlanta, GA

Kids activities, live music and one amazing backdrop make this a Fourth of July favorite

by Anna Bentley | June 19, 2010

One of Atlanta’s biggest Fourth of July celebrations happens every year at one of Atlanta’s most iconic spots: Centennial Olympic Park. Originally built to welcome athletes and fans from around the world during the 1996 Olympic Games, the park now welcomes thousands of Atlantans for family-friendly fun every Fourth of July.

This year’s festivities include children’s activities (face painting, inflatable games and arts and crafts) from noon to 4:00 p.m. and live …

Atlanta Food & Wine Festival, Atlanta, GA

First year of the Atlanta Food & Wine Festival set for May 2011

by Anna Bentley | June 17, 2010

Miami’s got the South Beach Wine & Food Festival, Charleston’s got the Charleston Food + Wine Festival and now Atlanta’s got its own high-end festival devoted to -- you guessed it -- food and wine. The Atlanta Food & Wine Festival, the first luxury event in the nation devoted specifically to Southern cooking and drinking traditions, will celebrate its inaugural year from May 19 to 22, 2011.

“We’re planning an experience like no other …

SweetWater Brewing Company, Atlanta, GA

The brewery for those who "Don't Float the Mainstream"

by Anna Bentley | June 13, 2010

Though I’m not much of a beer drinker, SweetWater Brewing Company will always hold a special place in my heart – and tastebuds. Its SweetWater Blue, a wheat ale with a distinctive hint of blueberry, tastes like blueberry waffles. Turns out, that’s all it takes to win me over. Congrats!

SweetWater Brewing Company was founded in Atlanta in 1997 by University of Colorado alums Kevin McNerney and Freddy Bensch. Legend has it …

D.B.A. Barbecue, Atlanta, GA

A neighborhood haunt serves up some serious flavor.

by Alison Abbey | April 26, 2010

Located smack-dab in the middle of one of Atlanta's favorite neighborhoods, Virginia-Highland, is one of Atlanta's favorite BBQ spots, D.B.A. Barbecue. With daily drink specials, an incredible patio, and to-die-for dishes, this hip-but-not-pretentious locale is a must-visit for those in the Atlanta area. (In fact, while recently shooting films in town, Ashton Kutcher and Demi Moore Tweeted from the place to shout out kudos for the food.)

And while many think great …

Spring Menus from Concentrics Restaurants, Atlanta, GA

A fresh take on cuisine from some of ATL's culinary faves.

by Alison Abbey | April 16, 2010

Atlanta culinary juggernaut Concentrics Restraurants, the restaurant group behind some of the city's finest eateries, has announced springtime changes to some of their most popular hotspots' menus.

ONE. midtown kitchen
404-892-4111
Asparagus Soup
Green and white asparagus, crème fraiche, chives $6
Citrus Cured Salmon
Lime ceviche, red onion, candied carrots $10
Caramelized Salmon
Smoked carrots, wild ramps, prosciutto vinaigrette $18

Lagunitas Brewing Company Beer Dinner at Diesel Filling Station, Atlanta, GA

5 beers and 4 courses at one of Atlanta's favorite spots.

by Alison Abbey | April 15, 2010

Diesel Filling Station, an ideal springtime locale in the Virginia-Highland neighborhood, is teaming up with Lagunitas Brewing Company for a one-night-only event on Tuesday, April 20 at 6:30PM. Pairing some of Diesel's signature flavors and Lagunitas Brewing Company's most refreshing brews, the meal promises to be a four-course culinary tour created by chef Bruce Estey. Each dish has been paired with some of the best from this Northern California brewery. Once …

Fernbank Science Museum, Atlanta, GA

A New Children's Exhibit Will Transform Museum Experience in 2011

by Alison Abbey | April 09, 2010

Fernbank Museum of Natural History will open an all-new children’s exhibition in spring 2011 that will transform the way visitors enjoy museums. This $8 million exhibition will feature the modern technology today’s children are already familiar with but will integrate it in new ways to create a highly immersive learning atmosphere that leaves visitors full of wonder and curiosity. New media will enhance the visitor experience by mimicking interactions and discoveries that are …

Atlanta Botanical Garden, Atlanta, GA

An oasis of beauty in the middle of the city

by Alison Abbey | April 05, 2010

Located conveniently in Midtown Atlanta, just outside of beautiful Piedmont Park, is one of the city's most breathtaking attractions. The Atlanta Botanical Garden is a 30-acre spectacle, full of some of the most beautiful, rare, and fascinating flora in the world.

Not only full of beauty, the Atlanta Botanical Garden also seeks to "develop and maintain plant collections for display, education, research, conservation and enjoyment," as noted by the organization's mission statement.

The Atlanta …

Aviary Organic Beauty Collective, Atlanta, GA

An eco-chic Atlanta spa encourages women to celebrate Earth Day by rejuvenating their bodies and their makeup bags.

by Alison Abbey | April 02, 2010

Looking for an idea girls' weekend getaway? Atlanta's Aviary Organic Beauty Collective is the perfect place to spend a day for primping with pals.

Aviary houses several beauty experts under the same umbrella, where guests can rest assured that they are in the right place. In addition to makeup lessons and applications, holistic facials and organic waxing, Aviary also offers all-natural hair care and unique effective massages. Upon entry at Aviary, guests …

Peachtree Christian Church, Atlanta, GA

A beautiful, historic place of worship in Midtown.

by Alison Abbey | March 30, 2010

Located in the heart of Midtown Atlanta, Peachtree Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) is both a God-centered community of faith and a truly beautiful place to spend a Sunday morning.

The historic church has been part of the city since the 1920s. The breath-taking Gothic Revival-style sanctuary boasts one of the finest collections of stained glass in the country. Each pane tells a different part of the story of Christ from his …

Dogwood Festival, Atlanta, GA

One of Atlanta's favorite spring festivals celebrates food and outdoor fun

by Alison Abbey | March 26, 2010

Atlanta's favorite springtime tradition, the Atlanta Dogwood Festival is also the third-oldest arts festival in the country. As a 501(c)3 non-profit organization, the Dogwood Festival brings the city its largest free outdoor arts festival each April and also promotes the arts in Atlanta throughout the year. Each year, the Dogwood Festival funds and hosts the High School Art Exhibit, which in 2009 boasted more than 400 participants from 50 Georgia schools and provided …

Baconfest, Atlanta, GA

A sizzling celebration returns to Atlanta

by Alison Abbey | March 25, 2010

If you're a bacon lover making your way to Atlanta this weekend, we've got the event for you. The 10th Annual Dad's Garage BaconFest, a one-day event featuring live music, improv, games, beer, bacon and more, will be held on Saturday, March 27 from 1 to 5 p.m. at Dad's Garage Theatre Company in Inman Park. A neighborhood tradition, each year Baconfest raises funds for the treasured mid-sized theatre that is devoted to …

The 33rd Annual Atlanta Jazz Festival, Atlanta, GA

Jazz music will ring through Atlanta throughout the month of May.

by Alison Abbey | March 19, 2010

Whether it’s out-of-this-world improvisation or boogie-woogie notes of Big Band music that moves you, the 33rd Annual Atlanta Jazz Festival embodies the spirit of jazz and will unite the City of Atlanta for 31 days of amazing music during the “31 Days of Jazz” this May. The month-long celebration culminates in Piedmont Park on Memorial Day weekend, Saturday, May 29 and Sunday, May 30, with music from local and nationally-renowned artists including Marcus …

Pamoja Penda, Atlanta, GA

One Atlanta festival is on a mission to think locally and act globally.

by Alison Abbey | March 15, 2010

In a city as diverse as Atlanta, there are two things that bring residents and visitors together without fail—a shared passion for music and a dedication to helping others. That love of music and altruism takes center stage March 28 in the city’s expansive Piedmont Park when the globally minded majority comes together for Pamoja Penda.

Pamoja Penda is a green music and arts festival that will benefit the Ugandan American …

Ray’s on the River, Sandy Springs, GA

One of Sandy Springs' finest dining spots offers wine lovers a perfect pairing.

by Alison Abbey | March 12, 2010

Oenophiles and foodies traveling to Atlanta on or around Tuesday, March 23 are in for a treat. Ray’s on the River, one of Sandy Springs’ and the greater ATL’s most renowned restos,  will host a Peirson Meyer and L’Angevin Wine Dinner beginning at 6:30 p.m.  Executive Chef Tom McEachern will prepare a menu of four courses that will be paired with different Peirson Meyer wines and L’Angevin wines, and Robbie Meyer, winemaker and …

Meehan’s Public House Downtown, Atlanta, GA

Atlanta's newest Irish pub is on track to become the ultimate watering hole for St. Pat's and beyond.

by Alison Abbey | March 08, 2010

Stepping into the newest Meehan's Public House location is like stepping back in time to a hundred-year-old Irish pub. The entire space was conceived around repurposed objects—from the 100-year-old wooden floors and moldings, to the 800-pound gate across the entryway (also over a century old), to the front door, which at 150 years-old is an exquisite antique. Every nuance, every seat and every accessory was carefully found and curated by Artisan Design Group, …

The Official Twilight Convention, Atlanta, GA

Twilight fans from around the country will vamp it up in the ATL

by Alison Abbey | March 04, 2010

Are you a fan of the Twilight Saga books and movies? If so, make plans to visit Atlanta March 5, 6 and 7 for the Official Twilight Convention. This event, put on by both Summit Entertainment (the films' distributor) and Creation Entertainment (masters of conventions) is an officially sanctioned meet-up, which means stars from the film will be on hand.

The convention allows fans to immerse themselves in all things Twilight. The …

Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA

Downtown Atlanta's GSU offers students higher education and an incredible location.

by Alison Abbey | March 01, 2010

With more than 30,000 undergraduate and graduate students currently enrolled, downtown Atlanta's Georgia State University is the second-largest institution in the state. The mammoth urban campus encompasses 7,118,205 square feet and 40 buildings, making the public university a huge part of the downtown community.

Founded in 1913, GSU is a public university that offers 55 accredited degree programs with 250 fields of study offered through six colleges. The school makes academics convenient …

Atlanta Symphony Orchestra’s 2010 Decorators’ Show House & Gardens, Atlanta, GA

Tour one of Atlanta's most beautiful homes for a fabulous cause.

by Alison Abbey | February 26, 2010

If you're planning to visit Atlanta from Saturday, April 17 through Sunday, May 9 and consider yourself a lover of music and home decor, the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra's 2010 Decorators' Show House and Gardens is not to be missed. This annual event, put on by the Atlanta Symphony Associates (a 450-member volunteer organization that supports the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra), raises funds for the symphony's Learning Community.

…

The Fabulous Fox Theatre, Atlanta, GA

"Spring Awakening" at The Fox gives audience members a chance to take the stage at one of Atlanta's greatest landmarks.

by Alison Abbey | February 25, 2010

No trip to Atlanta is complete without a visit to The Fabulous Fox Theatre. This world-renowned theater is known for its striking, Egyptian decor, it's twinkling night sky ceiling and the hundreds of productions that grace its stage every year. Among those productions is the Broadway Across America series, which brings the greatest shows from The Great White Way to theaters across the country. 

One such show is "Spring Awakening," …

SweetWater Brewery, Atlanta, GA

Brew Your Cask Off Cask Ale Festival

by Alison Abbey | February 19, 2010

SweetWater Brewing Company is Atlanta's own craft brewery specializing in aggressive West Coast-style beers. It's also a springtime favorite for locals looking to send an evening on the patio for weekly beer tastings and brew tours. 

On Saturday, March 20 from 6 to 10PM, SweetWater will host the "Brew Your Cask Off" Cask Ale Festival. Over 75 special guest brewers, including local celebrities, home brewers, retailers and charities will create their own …

Travel Guide to Atlanta, GA

Why you should visit Atlanta

by Alison Abbey | February 15, 2010

From its historic origins to its modern-day attractions, Atlanta is a city that is rich in culture and full of excitement. From the hustle bustle of the Downtown streets, to the leisurely pace of the Virginia-Highland neighborhood, to the luxe amenities of Buckhead, Atlanta is a melting pot as diverse in its activities as it is in its residents.

For those who travel to Atlanta in search of culture, the city offers music, theater, museums and …

Marlow’s Tavern, Atlanta, GA

Celebrate the spirit of the Big Easy in the ATL

by Alison Abbey | February 12, 2010

Sure New Orleans is the official home of Mardi Gras, but here in the ATL we have some serious celebrations that rival those of the Big Easy. Marlow’s Tavern is offering folks in Atlanta a real reason to celebrate Mardi Gras season this year. Starting on Fat Tuesday, February 16, through Monday, March 29, the well-known neighborhood tavern is offering a six-week long “Bayou ‘n Bourbon” special.  During this time, all six locations will …

Shula’s 347 Grill at the Atlanta Buckhead Marriott, Atlanta, GA

Weekend specials from Buckhead eatery and hotel

by Alison Abbey | February 10, 2010

In Atlanta for the weekend and wondering where to dine? From February 12 through February 14, Shula's 347 Grill is offering a special menu in addition to their usual a la carte menu items. The latest steakhouse to take up residence in swanky Buckhead has designed a menu featuring:

Choice of house or Caesar salad

Roast Prime Rib of Beef, Au Jus

Baked or Smashed Potato

Fresh Seasonal Vegetable

Choice of Bourbon Bread Pudding …

W Atlanta Perimeter, Atlanta, GA

A weekend at one of Atlanta's sexiest hotels is the perfect lovers' getaway for Valentine's Day and beyond...

by Alison Abbey | February 05, 2010

The W Atlanta-Perimeter, located just a few miles from Atlanta's swanky Buckhead neighborhood, is offering the ultimate package for those looking to add a little romance to their travels. The Starwood Hotels-owned spot has introduced their "What's Your Fantasy" package. Whether you're looking to getaway for Valentine's Day weekend, President's Day weekend, or just need a little R&R (relaxation and romance), this is it. 

The "What's Your Fantasy" package provides couples with …

STATS Sports Bar, Atlanta, GA

Atlanta's biggest sports bar is a touchdown for ATL residents and visitors on Super Bowl Sunday

by Alison Abbey | February 02, 2010

Super Bowl XLIV may be in Miami, but that doesn't mean the Sunshine State gets all the action on gameday. STATS, Downtown Atlanta's hottest—and most screen-savvy—sports bar has some seriously big ideas for watching the big game this year. 

Those looking to relax and nosh while they watch the Saints take on the Colts can reserve a table (complete with tabletop tap) and check out the action on one of STATS' 55 high-definition televisions—not to …