In a city where barbecue battles and farm-to-table feasts define the dining scene, Atlanta’s food lovers are in for a treat that’s equal parts indulgence and efficiency.
This Thursday, Oct. 16, the Epicurean Hotel Atlanta is rolling out the red carpet – or rather, the tasting spoon – for a one-night-only extravaganza featuring signature bites and sips from more than 20 of Midtown’s top culinary powerhouses.
Loading … The Grand Tasting in Midtown
Dubbed the “Epicurean Explosion,” the event promises an evening of explosive flavors, live music, and that unmistakable ATL vibe, all without the multi-day marathon of a full-blown food festival.
Picture this: bite-sized masterpieces from heavy-hitters like the buttery biscuits at Mary Mac’s Tea Room, the inventive small plates at The Optimist, and craft cocktails from the mixologists at The Battery Atlanta’s food scene collaborators.
Attendees can hop from station to station in the hotel’s swanky, food-centric spaces, sampling without the commitment of a prix-fixe menu or the post-festival food coma.
“We’re curating the essence of Atlanta’s diverse palate in one unforgettable night,” said Epicurean Hotel General Manager Elena Vasquez. “It’s about discovery, delight, and a little bit of dancing between courses.”
The event kicks off at 7 p.m. in the hotel’s vibrant lobby and rooftop terrace, transformed into a pop-up gastropub wonderland.
Expect DJ sets spinning Southern soul and hip-hop remixes, interactive chef demos, and photo ops that scream Instagram-worthy.
With tickets starting at just $75 (including entry, unlimited samples, and two drink tickets), it’s an accessible entry point for foodies on a budget – or anyone dodging the higher tabs of a traditional tasting tour. VIP upgrades for $125 add exclusive access to a chef’s table and premium pours.
This pop-up comes at a pivotal time for Midtown’s dining revival. Post-pandemic, the neighborhood has seen a surge in innovative eateries, from the global fusion at Chama Gaucha to the plant-based wizardry at The Alden.
Final Word
The Epicurean Hotel, which opened its doors a few years ago as part of the Marriott portfolio’s culinary-focused brand, is positioning itself as the epicenter of it all. “Atlanta’s food story is evolving, and we’re thrilled to spotlight the talents making it happen,” Vasquez added.
Spots are filling fast – last year’s similar event sold out in under 48 hours – so snag your ticket via the Epicurean Hotel website or at the door (cashless only).
Whether you’re a seasoned gourmand or just craving a night out that ends with full bellies and happy hearts, this explosion is your cue to taste why Atlanta remains the South’s undisputed food capital.
For more details or to reserve, visit epicureanhotels.com/atlanta or call (404) 555-FOOD.
Speaking of dining in Midtown, the best restaurants on the Beltline all have excellent customer service and food. What separates them from many of the other spots is that they’re on the urban playground called the Beltline.
The ATL has other cool eateries as well. If you’re gluten-free, there’s plenty of options. Same goes for keto-friendly restaurants or Asian fare in Atlanta.
Here are the best new restaurants in Atlanta
AtlantaFi.com is your go-to source for the city’s hottest plates, pop-ups, and palate-pleasers. Follow us on X @atlhaps for real-time bites.