Author: CJ Johnson

  • Pinky Cole, owner of Bar Vegan in Atlanta's Ponce City Market
    Bars / Business / Restaurants

    What It’s Like At Bar Vegan Inside Atlanta’s Ponce City Market
    cj-johnson-2 February 22, 2021
    3 Min Read

    Former TV producer and entrepreneur Pinky Cole continues to grow her food and drink empire around Atlanta. The Slutty Vegan owner opened a bar concept on Friday, February 26, 2021 inside Ponce City Market.

    First announced in November, Bar Vegan features “bar theater” likely quite different from anything Atlanta’s bar scene has at the moment.

    ‘When I visited in late February, I had Bar Vegan’s rum punch, which packs a powerful punch.

    The uber-popular Slutty Vegan, Cole’s first foray into the plant-based vegan restaurant business, opened in early 2019 in Atlanta’s Westview neighborhood to critical acclaim.

    Bar Vegan Opens In Midtown Atlanta’s Ponce City Market

    The new imprint, called Bar Vegan, is housed in the space that was formerly the Mercury Bar.

    As for food, Bar Vegan has a limited menu provided by Dinkies, an imprint that specializes in vegan phillys and tater tots.

    Dinkies in Bar Vegan in Ponce City Market

    The Ponce City Market location of Cole’s latest food business is part of a massive expansion that the former TV producer-turned-restaurateur has put in place over the next 24 months.

    Cole has said that her business took off when she was brainstorming things to eat in her Atlanta kitchen.

    “We know that sex sells. I started thinking of some crazy names to add to my menu,” she told XO Necole. “I went inside my kitchen and started cooking. I started putting together recipes and literally, everything was history from there.”

    The entrepreneur says a strong belief in what she was doing was what kept her going in the early days.

    “I went from having four people patronizing my business a week to having a 150 to now 600 people a day outside the door standing to patronize my business.”

    Pinky said,”It’s just a blessing. It literally started out as just an idea with no business plan. It was a vision that came to life.”

    She accomplished businesswoman hopes the same for Bar Vegan.

    Here’s a promo for Bar Vegan from its Instagram page:

     

     
     
     
     
     
    View this post on Instagram
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     

     

    A post shared by Bar Vegan ATL (@barveganatl)

    Where Is Bar Vegan Located?

    Bar Vegan is located inside Ponce City Market at 675 Ponce de Leon Ave., NE, Atlanta, GA. Here’s a map to help you find it.

    Cole opened a Slutty Vegan restaurant in Jonesboro south of the city earlier this year. with the plant-based cuisine enjoying unprecedented popularity, Cole is planning on expanding to Birmingham, Alabama and as many as 13 locations as well.

    How Many Slutty Vegan Restaurant Locations Are There In Atlanta?

    Soon, Slutty Vegan will have four Atlanta restaurant locations up or in the makings. They are located in the following areas:

    Atlanta has become known for its black-owned restaurants. If you’re into more pescatarian fare options, the city has that too.

    If you’re a health nut and want more local healthy food choices, perhaps you’ll be interested in our Guide to Local Farmers Markets.

    We also have special coverage of Black Farmers In Atlanta as well as How To Keto In Atlanta.

    More Food Coverage:

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  • The Woodall opens in Atlanta
    Business / Restaurants

    New Restaurant Alert: The Woodall Opens On Atlanta’s West Side
    cj-johnson-2 February 12, 2021
    3 Min Read

    One thing we know for sure: The COVID pandemic has not stopped Atlanta’s restaurant scene at all. The Woodall, an “approachable luxury experience,” has opened up in northwest Atlanta.

    The Woodall is brought to us by John Metz, Executive Chef , CEO and co-founder of Sterling Hospitality. The eatery opened on Atlanta’s west side on Feb. 8, 2021.

    The Woodall Opens In Atlanta

    The restaurant is billed as an “upscale gathering place” that serves contemporary, globally inspired takes on classic dishes & drink.

    The Woodall is currently open for dinner and will expand its hours in the weeks ahead.

    “I’m so excited to welcome our friends and neighbors to the Woodall,” says Metz. “I love this community, and I want to contribute something fresh, exciting and modern. The Woodall is an upscale gathering place that reflects the unique and energetic character of this neighborhood with a globally inspired take on contemporary favorites.”

    Here’s What’s On The Menu At The Woodall

    The Woodall has serving several delicious dishes right now. Here is the Seasonal Menu from The Woodall.

    PAPPARDELLE

    Fresh Egg Pappardelle, Wild Mushroom, Zucchini, Blistered Grape Tomato, EVOO, Parmigiano

    SEARED TRIGGER

    Basmati Fried Rice, Spinach, Lemongrass, Sauce Hong Kong

    FARFALLE

    Beef Tenderloin, Spinach, Dorati Tomato, Mushroom, Demi Reduction

    *STEAK FRITES

    Marinated Prime NY STRIP, Tiny Green Bean, Steak Frites, Cognac Peppercorn Gravy

    VEGETABLE LASAGNA

    Roasted Butternut Squash, Tuscan Kale, Pomodoro, Sauce Mornay

    *CENTER CUT FILET

    Grilled, Yukon Gold Whipped Potato, Dorati Tomato, Sautéed Garlicked Spinach, Demi Cognac Pan Sauce

    *SEA SCALLOPS

    Perfectly Seared, Potato Puree, Roasted Fennel, Butternut Squash & Green Pea Hash, Brown Butter Pan Sauce, Tomato Oil

    CHICKEN PAILLARD

    Prestige Farms Chicken, Glazed Heirloom Carrots, Fingerling Potato, Green Beans, Chicken Glacé

    See the complete menu at The Woodhall here.

    Where Is The Woodall Located In Atlanta?

    The Woodall is located at 2260 Marietta Blvd NW Suite 101, Atlanta, GA 30318 in the Moores Mill mixed-use development. Here is a map to help you find it.

    If you want to check out some other food spots in the area, here are the best restaurants in Buckhead. Or you might like to read our Buckhead Steak Guide to find all the best eateries offering mouth-watering prime cuts.

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  • Kinship Butchery and Sundry opens in Atlanta
    Business / Restaurants

    Kinship Butchery and Sundry Set To Open In Midtown Atlanta
    cj-johnson-2 February 9, 2021
    2 Min Read

    Kinship Butchery and Sundry is set to open in Atlanta’s Virginia-Highlands neighborhood in March 2021.

    The new Atlanta restaurant will specialize in locally sourced meat, poultry and sustainable organic foods. Customers will also be able to order sandwiches, produce and other goods you’d find in a market.

    Kinship Butchery and Sundry To Open In Atlanta’s Virginia-Highlands Neighborhood

    Kinship Butchery and Sundry is coming to us by way of co-owners Rachel Pack and Myles Moody.

    Pack has worked in various disciplines in the food industry, including as cook, writer and sommelier, to name a few. Most recently she served as General Manager in addition to Beverage Director at Aska in NYC.

    Moody is an Atlanta native who has studied under some of the city’s greatest chefs, including James Beard Award-winning chef, Linton Hopkins.

    Moody is returning to Atlanta after a stint in New York City, where he worked in the kitchen under Chef Dan Barber at Blue Hill (1-Michelin Star), Blue Hill at Stone Barns (2-Michelin Stars), Eleven Madison Park (3-Michelin Stars) and other notable eateries.

    Together Moody and Pack are offering Kinship as a marketplace where customers can get food, drink and other provisions for their kitchen.

    Where Is Kinship Butchery And Sundry Located?

    Kinship is located at 1019 Virginia Avenue, Atlanta, Ga. 30306. Here’s a map to help you find it.

     

    Interested in dining outside? Here are the best Atlanta restaurants for outdoor eating and here are those with great patios.

    If you want to take your dog to the park, here are the best Atlanta parks for Fido.

    More From AtlantaFi.com:

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  • Peach Cobbler Cafe opens in Buckhead
    Business / Restaurants

    Buckhead Restaurants: What To Order At Peach Cobbler Cafe
    cj-johnson-2 February 5, 2021
    3 Min Read

    If you love soul food, there’s a new Atlanta restaurant you’ve got to try: Peach Cobbler Cafe.

    You may have heard of Peach Cobbler Cafe from the super-popular radio commercial, which has been featured heavily on Atlanta’s airwaves.

    Peach Cobbler Cafe: Everything You Need To Know

    “Experience some of the best Soul Food you have ever tasted in your life, and then top it off with our signature Peach Cobbler, made with the finest peaches from our Peach State, Georgia,” it says on the eatery’s website.

    If you’re a fan of downhome cooking and soul food, you’ll love what’s on the menu at Peach Cobbler Cafe. But first, let’s take a look at the restaurant’s origins.

    Who Owns Peach Cobbler Cafe?

    Atlanta entrepreneur Arle Alston has crafted a delightful soul food experience with authentic menu items inspired by the Southern comfort food we all know and love. 

    Alson, who also owns VVS, a restaurant in southwest Atlanta and U Bar in East Point, opened Peach Cobbler Cafe in the last week of January 2021.

    What’s On The Menu At Peach Cobbler Cafe?

    If you want to know what you can order at Peach Cobbler Cafe, just think of some of the old-fashioned dishes your grandmother would make on Sundays. Here’s a partial list of some of Peach Cobbler Cafe’s top dishes from the menu:

    • Big Al’s Oxtail Dinner
    • Smothered Turkey Wings
    • Rotisserie Chicken
    • Meat Loaf
    • Beef Spare Ribs
    • Fried Catfish
    • Salmon and more

    [ngg src=”galleries” ids=”13″ display=”basic_slideshow”]Of course, because of COVID-19, strict health protocols are in place at the eatery and employees are masked up.

    Peach Cobbler Cafe is open daily from 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Friday through Sunday.

    Where Is Peach Cobbler Cafe Located In Atlanta?

    Are you looking for Peach Cobbler Cafe in Buckhead? it is located at 2221 Peachtree Rd N.W., Atlanta, Ga 30309. Here’s a map to help you find it.

    Peach Cobbler Cafe isn’t the only awesome soul food restaurant making customers happy in Atlanta. Here are some great soul food spots across the city.

    Final Word

    When it comes to Buckhead restaurants, there are some good ones. The real question is this: What do you like to eat?

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  • Johnny's Chicken & Waffles opens in College Park, Georgia
    Restaurants / Things To Do

    Here’s What’s On The Menu At Ne-Yo & Karli Redd’s Johnny’s Chicken And Waffles
    cj-johnson-2 January 18, 2021
    3 Min Read

    Are you a fan of chicken & waffles? Of course you are! Atlanta celebrities Ne-Yo and wife, Chef Crystal Smith, along with reality TV star Karlie Redd have teamed up to open a new restaurant in College Park: Johnny’s Chicken & Waffles.

    The eatery opened its doors in December 2020, creating yet another food destination along College Park’s Main Street corridor.

    Johnny’s Chicken & Waffles serves breakfast around the clock. The 85-seat eatery will close between 3 to 4 p.m. each day, but will be open throughout the night and day.

    “Ne-Yo and I aim to make everyone feel at home at Johnny’s Chicken & Waffles, and you never know who you’ll see dining alongside you,” Johnny’s Chicken & Waffle co-partner Karlie Redd says in a statement.

    The eatery is also a vehicle for Smith, who is an accomplished celebrity chef.

    The restaurant, which is currently hiring, features a takeout counter, booths, tables, high tops and bar seating.

    What’s On The Menu At Johnny’s Chicken & Waffles

    [ngg src=”galleries” ids=”16″ display=”basic_slideshow”]Johnny’s Chicken & Waffles also serves pies baked fresh daily and a selection of café goods.

    Johnny’s Chicken & Waffles’ guests can enjoy a menu that allows them to customize their chicken and waffles nearly anyway they like. That includes:

    • Mix-and-Match Proteins
    • Plain or Bacon-Flavored Waffles
    • Sweet and Savory Sauces
    • More Add-On Sides

    Some menu standouts include Cheddar Drop Biscuits with whipped honey butter and strawberry preserves; Hot Skillet Cobbler desserts in apple or peach served with vanilla bean ice cream and salted caramel drizzle; Saints & Sinners Brioche French Toast Log served with either bacon, sunny side eggs and crispy garlic potatoes or berries, whipped topping and chocolate sauce; and The Mac Attack Chicken Sandwich with crispy chicken breast, creamy mac & cheese.

    Where Is Johnny’s Chicken & Waffles Located?

    Johnny’s Chicken & Waffles is located at 3725 Main Street, College Park, GA 30337. Here is a map to help you find it.

    “Anyone who appreciates music will love the ambiance we created in our dining room, with awards and plaques from Ne-Yo, myself and some of our closest friends,” Karlie Redd says. “Who doesn’t love some amazing chicken and waffles, while listening to some amazing music! We hope to see you if you’re in College Park.”

    Johnny’s Chicken & Waffles joins a vaunted list of the best chicken and waffle restaurants around Atlanta.

    Don’t miss our list of the best black restaurants in Atlanta, and there are plenty others. If you like barbecue, see our list of the Best Atlanta BBQ Restaurants.

    As for eateries below I-20, these Southside Atlanta restaurants have developed quite a following.

    The craze hasn’t escaped metro Atlanta’s food and drink scene, which has seen a fast-caz explosion in recent years.

    Got an event or know of something opening in and around Atlanta? Holla: CJ@AtlantaFi.com. See what’s poppin’ in the ATL! Subscribe to our  news alerts here, follow us on Twitter and like us on Facebook.

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  • Botica opens in Atlanta
    Atlanta / Business

    Mexican Restaurant Botica Opens In Buckhead
    cj-johnson-2 January 18, 2021
    2 Min Read

    Another premium Mexican eatery has opened in Buckhead. In early January 2021, Botica opened inside the space formerly occupied by the Watershed.

    The eatery, which was set to open in November 2020, is the handiwork of Chef immo Alboumeh, whose extensive culinary experience is informed from his time spent in f Lebanon, Italy and Spain.

    Mexican And Spain Eatery Botica Opens In Atlanta

    “Chef Mimmo Alboumeh, who grew up in Lebanon, Italy and Spain, began his culinary career in Mexican restaurants more than 20 years ago, bringing with him the cultural influence and cooking of his upbringing,” it says on Botica’s website. “The Botica menu is inspired by street style tacos and Chef Mimmo’s unique brand of hybrid cuisine.”

    What’s On Botica’s Menu?

    What's on Botica's menu
    Photo credit: Botica

    You may be wondering what’s on Botica’s menu. The Atlanta restaurant features in-house smoked meats, homemade dressings, salsas, sauces and a made-from-scratch menu.

    The eatery also offers brunch on Saturdays and Sundays, 10 am to 4 pm, with Mimmo’s signature savory dishes and bottomless Mimosas.

    Where Is Botica Located?

    Botica is located in the Brookwood Hills neighborhood of Atlanta, just south of Buckhead. Here is a map of the eatery to help you find it at 1820 Peachtree Road, NW, Unit 3 Atlanta, GA 30309.

    Botica is one of the best black restaurants in Atlanta, and there are plenty others. If you like barbecue, see our list of the Best Atlanta BBQ Restaurants.

    As for eateries below I-20, these Southside Atlanta restaurants have developed quite a following.

    The craze hasn’t escaped metro Atlanta’s food and drink scene, which has seen a fast-caz explosion in recent years.

    Got an event or know of something opening in and around Atlanta? Holla: CJ@AtlantaFi.com. See what’s poppin’ in the ATL! Subscribe to our  news alerts here, follow us on Twitter and like us on Facebook.

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  • 1911 Biscuits and Burgers opens in Smyrna
    Atlanta / Business / Restaurants

    1911 Biscuits & Burgers Opens In Smyrna
    cj-johnson-2 January 13, 2021
    2 Min Read

    A new eatery is now serving great food just outside the Perimeter in Atlanta: 1911 Biscuits & Burgers recently opened its doors in Smyrna. The eatery serves handcrafted burgers, biscuits, hot dogs, salads and sandwiches.

    The new eatery is currently hiring for several positions inside and outside of the kitchen.

    On the restaurant’s website it says: “We are now open and pleased to serve our Smyrna neighbors. Our Drive Thru is open for your convenience and safety. After the tremendous turnout this past weekend, we will be adjusting our menu.”

    Order online from 1911 Biscuits & Burgers.

    What’s On The Menu At 1911 Biscuits & Burgers?

    1911 Biscuits and Burgers opens in Smyrna

    The menu of 1911 Biscuits & Burgers consists of some great American cuisine, such as Breakfast Plates anchored by chicken, sausage, bacon and steak. Also, the menu will offer Breakfast Bowls with brisket, bacon and more meats.

    1911 Biscuits & Burgers will operate during the following hours:

    • Monday – Friday: 5:30 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
    • Saturday – Sunday: 7:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
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  • Baffi restaurant in Atlanta
    Business / Restaurants

    Baffi Opens in Atlanta’s West Midtown District
    cj-johnson-2 January 5, 2021
    2 Min Read

    Chef Jonathan Waxman has opened Baffi, a new eatery in Atlanta’s West Midtown District, AtlantaFi.com has learned.

    Baffi (pronounced BAH-FEE) serves casual, Italian-inspired fare that is locally sourced and seasonal.

    Baffi Opens On Atlanta’s West Side

    The eatery’s name Baffi comes from a translation of “mustache,” which is a wink toward Waxman’s New York City restaurant Barbuto, the Italian word for “bearded.”

    Executive Chef Andrew Cacioppo helms the kitchen, meshing Waxman’s Italian-Californian flavors and cooking style with his own deep culinary expertise.

    Baffi is open for dinner Tuesday through Saturday in Atlanta’s West Midtown neighborhood at Stockyards.

    What Is On Baffi’s Menu?

    Baffi’s menu serves approachable dishes such as:

    • Wood-Seared Shrimp Salad with winter greens, spicy aioli and focaccia
    • Cast Iron Sunburst Trout with braised greens and meyer lemon salsa
    • And don’t sleep on Waxman’s famed JW Roasted Chicken

    You’ll also love the JW Gnocchi and Kale Salad; fresh and dried pastas, seasonal pizzas and a variety of shareable dishes, including Braised Meatball – pork & veal, mascarpone grits; Roasted Oysters – brown butter, black pepper, parmesan; Bruschetta – ricotta, wild mushrooms, focaccia, herbs; and JW Rosemary Potatoes.

    Where Is Baffi Located In Atlanta?

    Baffi is located in the office, restaurant and retail space at 976 Brady Avenue NW Atlanta, Ga. 30318. Here is a map to help you find it.

     

    If you want to check out some other food spots in the area, here are the best restaurants in Buckhead. Or you might like to read our Buckhead Steak Guide to find all the best eateries offering mouth-watering prime cuts.

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  • Neyow's Creole Cafe opening in Atlanta
    Atlanta / Business / Restaurants

    New Orleans Eatery Neyows Opening In Atlanta
    cj-johnson-2 January 5, 2021
    2 Min Read

    Several Atlanta eateries feature Louisiana-inspired fare, but a new restaurant with authentic New Orleans roots is bringing new flavor to the city.

     Neyow’s Creole Cafe is coming to Atlanta’s Castleberry Hill neighborhood in the spring, according to the Atlanta Business Chronicle.

    Neyow’s Creole Cafe Opening An Atlanta Location

    Neyow’s is owned by New Orleans natives Tamla Pierre-Taylor and Tim Dublecet, according to the Chronicle. And given Atlanta’s thriving dining scene, the entrepreneurs wanted to add its brand to the restaurant gumbo.

    In addition to Atlanta, Neyow’s has two other locations in New Orleans and Houston. In those locations, Neyow’s offers online ordering as well as curbside pickup.

    “Our menu comes straight from our grandmother’s recipes, rich in our Creole heritage,” it says on the eatery’s website.

    What’s On The Menu At Neyow’s?

    Neyow’s offers some great Louisiana Creole and Cajun dishes in addition to Southern standards like fried chicken and ribs. Some other menu standouts include:

    • Crawfish balls
    • Shrimp on the Avenue: Grilled shrimp over angel hair pasta in a creamy white sauce
    • Fried gulf oysers
    • Seafood platters

    [ngg src=”galleries” ids=”12″ display=”basic_imagebrowser”]

    Where Will Neyow’s Creole Cafe Be Located In Atlanta?

    Neyow’s is going to part of the Walker Street redevelopment of Castleberry Hill. Atlanta-based H.J. Russell and Co. are overseeing the project. The address is 131 Walker St. SW. Atlanta, GA. 30313.

    Here’s a map to help you find it. 

    Neyow’s joins scores of other  black restaurants in Atlanta, and there are plenty others on the way. If you like barbecue, see our list of the Best Atlanta BBQ Restaurants.

    As for eateries below I-20, these Southside Atlanta restaurants have developed quite a following.

    The craze hasn’t escaped metro Atlanta’s food and drink scene, which has seen a fast-caz explosion in recent years.

    Got an event or know of something opening in and around Atlanta? Holla: CJ@AtlantaFi.com. See what’s poppin’ in the ATL! Subscribe to our  news alerts here, follow us on Twitter and like us on Facebook.

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  • Home renovation reality TV show in Atlanta
    Casting Calls / Entertainment / Things To Do

    Now Casting In Atlanta: Casting Home Renovation Show
    cj-johnson-2 December 22, 2020
    2 Min Read
    Are you looking to buy a home in metro Atlanta? There’s a new reality TV show that is casting for people and families who are in the homebuying process.
     
    The show is being produced for a major home network for people looking to find homes in their dream neighborhood.
     
    Once selected, you’ll be paired with a real estate agent and contractor to guide you through the process. The show is being put on by 51 Minds Entertainment.
     
    Here is what they’re looking for.
    • People who have recently bought or looking to buy a home in metro Atlanta.
    • Home seekers interested in someone to teach them how to build instant home equity.
    • Home seekers who are open to finding homes that need renovations.

    Here’s How To Apply:

    Email 51MindsCasting2020@gmail.com and include the following:
    • ‘Name
    • Contact info
    • Five photos of yourself and family
    • Your house budget
    • Your top five home must-haves
    • Your desired neighborhoods
    To be selected, you must be at least 21 years of age, among other eligibility requirements.
     
    If you’ve recently purchased your dream home, you’re still eligible, just email your story to 51MindsCasting2020@gmail.com.
     
    Home renovation TV sho0w casting call in Atlanta
     
    With more than 900 movie and TV projects just in the last few years, the film industry has generated more than $9 billion for the state of Georgia.
    There are so many movies filmed in Atlanta these days that it’s hard to keep up with it all. That’s why I suggest you subscribe to AtlantaFi.com to get all the freshest movie casting calls, celeb sightings and Atlanta happenings delivered to your inbox.

    Want to work in Georgia film & TV? Here are the latest Atlanta casting calls

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