September 2019 ISSUE 65 • FREE Serving Buckhead, Brookhaven, Sandy Springs, Chamblee and Dunwoody
YOUR GUIDE TO LIVING WELL IN ATLANTA
INTRODUCING OUR EXPANDED HOME SECTION WHERE TO HOLD YOUR KID’S BIRTHDAY BASH CELEBRATING THE CENTENARY OF A CLASSIC COCKTAIL
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OUR FIRST-EVER CARS ISSUE WILL GET YOUR MOTOR RUNNING
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Buckhead Office - 532 East Paces Ferry Road, Suite 200, Atlanta, GA 30305 | 404.233.4142 | HarryNorman.com The above information is believed accurate, but is not warranted. This offer is subject to errors, omissions, prior sale and withdrawals without notice
ERIN YABROUDY With its magnificent homes, architectural significance, expansive green spaces and purposeful layout, Ansley Park is considered one of America's 10 greatest neighborhoods. It gracefully combines the luxury and convenience of Intown living with the privacy and peacefulness its residents have come to cherish. A resident of Ansley Park since 2004, Erin Yabroudy, along with her team, has served the neighborhood and the wider Atlanta community with heart and dedication while simultaneously conducting one of the most successful real estate businesses in Atlanta as part of Harry Norman, REALTORS. 75 Montgomery Ferry Drive, Atlanta, GA 30309 $2,295,000
THE BUCKHEAD OFFICE
C: 404.504.7955 | O: 404.233.4142 Erin.Yabroudy@HarryNorman.com | ErinYabroudy.com
B A T T A G L I A S A R A
H O U S T O N
D A L L A S
A T L A N T A
T O O T S I E S . C O M
SIMPLY BUCKHEAD® |
SEPTEMBER 2019
67
32
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Contents 14 Editor’s Letter
44
67 COVER STORY
28 Approved: Bug Brigade
[ SIMPLY STYLISH ]
[ SIMPLY NOW ]
Six killer products for keeping unwanted pests away
42 Fashion: Making Waves
17 News: Public
30 Kids: Birthday
Gianine McKenna designs swimwear inspired by her Brazilian roots
Display of Affection Sandy Springs unveils a cool new outdoor sculpture gallery
20 Travel Far: The Peak of Chic The Resort at Paws Up is the authority on experiencing Montana’s wilderness in style
24 Staycation: Savoring Stone Mountain Park From championship golf courses to a dazzling laser light show, this 3,200acre local park has attractions galore
Bashes With a Bang
! m o o Vr OUR FIRST-EVER CARS ISSUE WILL GET YOUR MOTOR RUNNING
Buckhead-area venues that make party planning a piece of cake
44 Wellness: Accelerating Fitness
[ SIMPLY LIVING ]
Put the pedal to the metal with these five in-car exercises
[ SIMPLY DELICIOUS ]
46 Beauty: In Fine Form
78 Review: Pure Pleasure
A new beauty studio is primed to transform Buckhead bodies
There’s something to taco ’bout at Brookhaven’s Pure Taqueria
32 Home: A Serendipitous Spot A Brookhaven couple takes a chance and succeeds with their first family home
36 Bulletin Board:
[ SIMPLY ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT ]
80 Drinks: All Hail the Negroni Celebrating the centennial of the classic cocktail
After-Hours Home Shopping
60 On Stage: Life is Rich
Engel & Völkers offers weeknight open houses to Atlanta buyers
A comedian’s podcast pursues happiness with money
Michelle A. Middlebrooks
38 Tastemaker: Magic Carpets
62 Art: Picture This
89 Events: Places to go and things to do
The Atlanta Fire Rescue Department battalion chief talks about blazing new trails
Mohamad Gavahi of Atlanta Fine Rugs reveals how to shop for a quality Oriental rug
Long before camera phones, a local group was promoting the joys of photography
93 Charitable: A spotlight on philanthropic and social gatherings
27 15 Minutes With:
[ SIMPLY HAPPENING ]
September 2019 | Simply Buckhead
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Photos: 32, 44, 67, 78: Sara Hanna
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Serving Atlanta for over 14 years YOUR GUIDE TO LIVING WELL IN ATLANTA
Serving Buckhead, Brookhaven, Sandy Springs, Chamblee and Dunwoody SEPTEMBER 2019 | ISSUE 65 P.O. Box 11633, Atlanta, GA 30355 simplybuckhead.com For advertising rates, call: 404.538.9895 Publisher and Founder
[ F E AT U RE D C ON T RI B U T OR ]
completecareatlanta.com
770-551-9533
Chief Financial Officer
Sonny Hayes Editor-in-Chief
Jill Becker Creative Director
Alan Platten
Nurse On Call: 404-408-5020
ValueStream Media Chief Photographer
11 Dunwoody Park, Suite 140. Dunwoody, GA. 30338 Licensed - Insured - Bonded All caregivers are checked and fingerprinted using an industry exclusive background screen process
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Cheryl Isaacs Account Executives
Bill Garst Michelle Johnson
We have been awarded the highest achievement for quality in the country by The Joint Commission.
Website Development Management
BHG Digital Director of Audience Development
Mary Welch Even though Mary Welch hasn’t owned a car in years and says she generally doesn’t miss it, she was the perfect person to test drive the eight amazing vehicles featured in our “Car Talk” story (see page 67), as she regularly writes car reviews for the Dunwoody Crier and was once the managing editor of Car Business Today. She’s also the editor of Travelgirl magazine and writes for the Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau, Atlanta Journal-Constitution and a number of local, regional and national publications. Welch lives in Virginia-Highland, where she can often be found walking to the grocery store and other neighborhood spots.
Lia Picard Copy Editor
H.M. Cauley Contributing Editor
Jennifer Bradley Franklin Contributing Writers
Karina Antenucci Giannina S. Bedford Jennifer Bradley Franklin H.M. Cauley Rebecca Cha Carly Cooper Jessica Dauler Mickey Goodman Angela Hansberger Michael Jacobs Nicole Letts Kevin C. Madigan Lia Picard Sue Rodman Jan Schroder Muriel Vega Karon Warren Mary Welch Contributing Photographer
Paula Bond Heller We welcome all contributions, but we assume no responsibility for unsolicited material. No portion of this publication can be reproduced in whole or in part without prior written permission. Copyright © 2019 by Simply Buckhead ®. All rights reserved. Printed by Walton Press, Inc. Distributed by Distributech and Distribution Services Group.
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September 2019 | Simply Buckhead
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(470) 239−2001
[ BEHIND THE COVER ] What do you get when you combine a gorgeous model, a rare 1934 Packard Phaeton and a historic 1924 Buckhead estate? You get the incredible shot you see on this issue’s cover. Touting our first-ever cars issue, the image came together thanks to the generosity of folks such as Millard Choate, who trailered his award-winning vehicle to the site from its home in Brookhaven, and Alex Page and James Simons of Harry Norman Realtors, who arranged to have one of their listings serve as the spectacular backdrop.
4405 Front Nine Dr. Cumming, GA 30041
Boarding Daycare Photographer: Sara Hanna Photo assistant: Scott Asano Stylist: Sara Mixon Wardrobe: Courtesy of Tootsies
Grooming
Model: Nina Darr, MP Management Makeup: Sarai Mateo, The Standard Hair: Vincent Tobias, The Standard Vintage car: Courtesy of Millard Choate Shot on location at 430 Argonne Drive N.W., Atlanta 30305, currently available through James Simons at Harry Norman Realtors
YOUR GUIDE TO LIVING WELL IN ATLANTA
ife
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[ P ROU D M E M B E R OF ]
MAKE A RESERVATION TODAY!
Interested in Advertising?
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September 2019 | Simply Buckhead
13
SIMPLY BUCKHEAD®
SEPTEMBER 2019
It’s time for
[ E DI T OR ’ S L E T T E R ]
“S
liliumcare is a unique women’s health and wellness center.
hotgun!” Like a lot of kids, I used to
It’s personalized care.
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We are ready to listen and have real conversations with you.
I wanted to ride in the The Headshot Truck
front passenger seat of the family car, but as soon as I was old enough to get
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behind the wheel myself, I wanted to be the one in the driver’s seat.
We Make Time For You.
Because if it has wheels, I want to drive it. I recently rented one of those electric scooters you see all over town, and had such fun tooling around Piedmont Park and weaving in and out of all the pedestrians, dogs and strollers on the BeltLine. My only wish was that the scooter would go faster.
H.M. McFarling III, MD, FACOG Kristan Adams, MD, FACOG 3108 Piedmont Rd. Suite 120 Atlanta, GA 30305 www.liliumcare.com
www.facebook.com/liliumcare ww @liliumcare
To me, there’s something inherently romantic and freeing about getting in a vehicle and just going. Which is why I’m so excited about this issue, our first-ever cars issue. On page 68, Mary Welch writes about eight spectacular automobiles she test drove on the streets of Buckhead. We also take a look at some of the more than 150 extraordinary classic and vintage vehicles making an appearance at this year’s annual Concours d’Elegance car show (page 74), including a one-of-a-kind Bugatti
Here’s where student potential becomes actual.
Aerolithe valued at more than $5 million. And we hear from some notable Atlantans, including Governor Brian Kemp and Atlanta Braves pitcher Mike Soroka,
• Full-Time Academy
about their ultimate dream cars (page 72).
• Classes for Credit
There’s plenty of content for non-car lovers as well, from a
• Grades 6-12
guide of fun places to hold your kid’s birthday party (page 30) to a roundup of insect repellents for warding off those
• Tutoring
inevitable unwanted visitors (page 28), and I encourage you to savor every page. Please just don’t read and drive!
Jill Becker editor@simplybuckhead.com
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September 2019 | Simply Buckhead
Fusion Buckhead FusionBuckhead.com 866.210.9479
N E W S | L O C A L S A L U T E | T R AV E L | 1 5 M I N U T E S W I T H | A P P R O V E D | K I D S
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15 MINUTES WITH MICHELLE A. MIDDLEBROOKS P27 "Nationally, less than 4% of firefighters are women. It's important to have more diversity." — Michelle A. Middlebrooks
From her base at Station No. 21, batallion chief Michelle A. Middlebrooks oversees all five of the fire stations in Buckhead. Photo: Sara Hanna
September 2019 | Simply Buckhead
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NEWS BY:
Karon Warren
Public Display of Affection C
ommemorating the first anniversary of City Springs, the city of Sandy Springs unveiled a new outdoor sculpture gallery. Known as ArtSS in the Open, the initiative between the city and the local nonprofit Art Sandy Springs features nine pieces selected from a national competition that drew 135 submissions from artists around the country, including Steve Steinman from Atlanta.
Based on the theme “Inspired. By Nature,” the sculptures are placed around the City Green, and visitors can learn about each one by following the Art Walk guide listed on the City Springs website. As an alternative, visitors can read about the sculptures on the Otocast app, which details art in various cities. These particular pieces will be on display
through March 2020, at which time the city will purchase one or more sculptures to place in permanent locations around Sandy Springs. A free exhibit open to the public, ArtSS in the Open will change out the sculptures and artists each season as part of the annual competition, giving visitors an opportunity to continually experience new art. n
ARTSS IN THE OPEN City Springs 1 Galambos Way Sandy Springs 30328 citysprings.com/art
NEWS CLIPS NEW YOGA OUTLET OPENS With the opening of Bring It Om Yoga Studio at Andrews Square in Buckhead, yoga fans now have a new place to get their fix. Taking inspiration from NYC’s and LA’s yoga communities, Bring It Om features heated Vinyasastyle Power Yoga and Restorative Yoga classes. The studio amenities include showers, changing rooms and complimentary mats and towels. “Our mission is simple: sharing our love for yoga with Atlanta,” says Leticia Lopez,
who co-owns the studio with Elizabeth Beggs Spruill. Classes are offered daily; see website for schedule. Bring It Om Yoga Studio 56 E. Andrews Dr. N.W. Atlanta 30305 404.754.1177 bringitomyoga.com
MENSWEAR OUTFITTER MAKES ATLANTA DEBUT Luxury menswear purveyor Knot Standard has a new location at The Exchange in Buckhead. The company’s 10th showroom, the 2,100-square-foot storefront
features custom design services through its voiceactivated Style Walls, which display product offerings and customization options to shoppers. “Buckhead is a fantastic destination for Atlanta retail, and we’re excited at what Knot Standard will bring to the market,” says CEO and co-founder John Ballay. The store offers chinos and button-down shirts for every day, suits and tuxedos for work and special occasions, plus outerwear, accessories and more.
Knot Standard 3167 Peachtree Rd. Atlanta 30305 knotstandard.com
ESTHETICIAN SCHOOL AND SPA RELOCATES TO LENOX SQUARE After 11 years in Sandy Springs, the Elaine Sterling Institute has made the move to Lenox Square in Buckhead, where the school has consolidated its campus into one 25,768-squarefoot facility that combines a dynamic classroom environment with a modern,
spa-like environment. Owner Elaine Sterling says, “It’s a serious campus with the latest technology, and we’re delivering luxury spa services at affordable prices.” The facility offers free chair massages in the reception area, a lunchtime nap park and full spa services, including a onehour massage for $45. Elaine Sterling Institute 3393 Peachtree Road N.E. Atlanta 30326 404.256.5228 elainesterling.com
September 2019 | Simply Buckhead
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55+ Active Adult Apartment Homes
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588-423-0929 658 Lindbergh Drive NE Atlanta, GA 30324 Photo depicts an actual Overture resident.
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*Overture is an equal housing opportunity. Amenities and services vary by location. Pricing & availability subject to change. See a Greystar representative for details.
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September 2019 | Simply Buckhead
LOCAL SALUTE
BY:
Mickey Goodman
Through their glutenfree restaurant and bakery KarmaFarm, the Wilders donate meals to those in need.
As part of her work with the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, Christine Pullara emcees its Man & Woman of the Year gala.
Exceeding Expectations
Helping feed kids in need
Celebrating the big 5-0 in a generous way Buckhead resident Christine Pullara, host of the 11Alive weekday talk show Atlanta & Company, wanted to do something significant for her 50th birthday, but she wasn’t thinking about skydiving or running a marathon. Her goal was to raise $50,000 for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS). Pullara is a LLS board member and has emceed its annual Man & Woman of the Year Grand Finale gala for several years. “The organization is especially meaningful to me because my brother, Mario, is a leukemia survivor,” says Pullara, whose efforts helped her meet her $50,000 goal and then some. “Astonishingly, we raised $115,000. And since donations were more than $50K, I was able to name a research grant in my brother’s honor.”
Once word about Pullara’s mission got out, Atlantans such as Jamie Bendall, co-owner of The Punchline comedy club, joined in the effort, with Bendall donating all of the sales from tickets on a single night at the club. And many of Atlanta & Company’s vendors donated auction items. Blue Med Center coowners Tim and Tony Middendorff threw a big party and donated services. “We raised $18,000 in three hours,” says Pullara, “and Dr. Vanessa Biggs at Atlanta Women’s Obstetrics & Gynecology gifted a portion of the cost of three 4-D ultrasounds for a total of $800.” Donations also poured in from fans, family and friends. l For more information on the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, visit lls.org.
Say YES! to Volunteering
While traveling in New York and Miami, McCall and Scott Wilder found numerous restaurants where their allergyridden family of four could eat safely. In Atlanta? Nada. “Why don’t we open the first?” they pondered. Undaunted by their lack of experience in the food industry—McCall owned a couture children’s clothing store, and Scott was in finance—they plunged ahead, naming the venture KarmaFarm. They wanted a gluten-free restaurant and bakery where people with allergies could eat worryfree and decided that for every meal they sold, they would donate a meal to those in need
Michael Halpern's decades of volunteer work have earned him recognition from Leading Age Georgia.
Atlantan honored for years of service Buckhead resident Michael Halpern has been honored for his 25-plus years of volunteerism with YES! (Youth Experiencing Success) by Leading Age Georgia, an organization that celebrates positive aging. The impetus for his work with YES! began in the mid-’80s when Halpern was volunteering at Grady Memorial Hospital’s surgical emergency center. He met a teenager wearing an orange jumpsuit whose chart indicated that he had swallowed broken glass in his jail cell.
Good Karma
“When I told him he was about to be released from the hospital, he said, ‘What’s the use? I’m going to be dead soon anyway,‘” says Halpern, a former homebuilder and designer. The conversation stuck in Halpern’s mind and still
festers 34 years later. Later that year, Halpern volunteered for a new Atlanta program named YES!, whose goal was to help at-risk inner-city youth make a difference in their own lives. Halpern became YES!’s first executive director, and in 1988, YES! hosted its first 25 teens at a fourday workshop. They discussed their difficulties and ways they could make positive changes. At the end of the workshop, each teen was connected to a Committed Partner who worked with him or her individually. Halpern’s first Partner, Cherise, then age 14, sent her daughter to YES! years later, shortly before he resigned.
through organizations such as No Kid Hungry. In just the first six months, the number of meals donated totaled 8,400. The idea actually made good sense because McCall had been cooking healthy, organic food for 20 years to accommodate Scott, who is vegan; their son, Brosnan, who has a life-threatening peanut allergy; daughter Mary Scott’s dairy intolerance; and her own autoimmune disease. Each ingredient in KarmaFarm’s 35 menu options is clearly listed, and there are options for meat lovers, vegans, vegetarians and pescatarians. l For more information on KarmaFarm, visit eatkarmafarm.com.
“Even though we lacked the data, the consensus was that the program impacted more than a thousand lives,” says Halpern. “Unfortunately, it shut down in 2017, a casualty of the changing environment.” Halpern, 86, and his wife, Julie, live at the Lenbrook senior community, where both are extremely active and volunteer on various committees. l For more information on Leading Age Georgia, visit leadingagega.org.
Want to nominate a volunteer, company or nonprofit that makes Buckhead, Sandy Springs or Brookhaven a better place to live? Please contact: editor@simplybuckhead.com
September 2019 | Simply Buckhead
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T R AV E L FA R
THE PEAK OF
CHIC
The Resort at Paws Up is the authority on experiencing Montana’s wilderness in style STORY:
A
Jennifer Bradley Franklin
nyone who knows me well knows that I don’t camp. I can trace my distaste for sleeping outdoors to my first, and so far only, true camping trip in my early 20s. A friend organized the details (“It’ll be fun,” he said), but the reality included a 6-mile hike in the North Georgia mountains carrying a heavy backpack and scant dehydrated sustenance (“It keeps the packs lighter,” he said), and fumbling in the chilly pitch black to use nature’s “facilities.” Still, I crave seeing wildlife up close, feeling the exhilaration of fishing in a teeming river or mastering a new skill. It’s just that I prefer those things with the trappings of a proper shower, a cozy bed and a fresh meal. So imagine my delight when a friendly camping butler at The Resort at Paws Up led the way to a 1,030-square-foot, two-bedroom canvas tent that included a plush king-size bed, river view and spacious bathroom, complete with heated tiles and a deep soaking tub. I shouldn’t have been surprised. After all, the 37,000acre property in western Montana’s pristine Blackfoot Valley is credited for inventing the now ubiquitous travel
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category “glamping” (“glamorous camping”). For those who prefer a more permanent structure, the resort also offers cabins and estates of various sizes and bedroom configurations tucked among the majestic Ponderosa pines and Douglas fir trees that pepper the resort’s rolling hills. After settling in, I was eager to experience some of the dozens of activities offered. There’s everything from archery and rappelling to whitewater rafting and hot air ballooning. My first order of business was to get the lay of the land by horseback. I saddled up for a tranquil hour-long trail ride as the sky changed from blue to shades of yellow and pink. Back at Pinnacle Camp, my fellow glampers and I were in for an unexpected treat: That night around a communal fireplace, over Old Fashioneds made with local Fireweed bourbon, a pair of Nashville-based singer/songwriters joined us as part of the resort’s Campfire Stars programming. Hearing Jessi Alexander, who has penned chart-toppers such as Miley Cyrus’ “The Climb” and Blake Shelton’s “Mine Would Be You,” sing these hits, and her husband, Jon
September 2019 | Simply Buckhead
Above: Adventurous outdoor activities are paired with stylish accommodations at The Resort at Paws Up near Missoula, Montana. Right: The writer takes aim at the sporting clay course.
Randall, sing his hauntingly beautiful “Whiskey Lullaby” (famously recorded by Brad Paisley and Alison Krauss) was a moment I won't soon forget. The highlights kept coming for the duration of my three-day stay at the service-oriented adventure property. I learned how to cut cattle (calling an animal out of the herd) on a threehour cattle drive. I spent a morning at a sporting clay course shooting a 20-gauge shotgun as neon targets released in various configurations tested my skill and concentration. Another day I bundled up for a fourhour fly fishing float trip that at times passed through Class II rapids in the search for a trophy trout on the Blackfoot River, the same body of water that inspired Norman Maclean to pen A River Runs Through It. Unlike on my ill-fated camping trip more than a dozen years ago, the food at Paws Up was a major pleasure. Every bite was memorable, though perhaps no meal more so than the
dinner on my last night, when a vintage chuckwagon became the epicenter for a jaw-dropping meal. While chefs oversaw tomahawk steaks, ribs, corn and berry cobbler in cast-iron crocks over an open flame, the other guests and I tried our hands at hatchet throwing. As I listened to the rushing river and the happy chatter of new friends over a world-class meal, I knew I’d found my outdoor nirvana. n
THE RESORT AT PAWS UP pawsup.com
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Schedule a tour today to experience Epstein for yourself. At Epstein, students experience an exceptional education led by specialized STEAM and Hebrew language programs. The school prepares confident lifelong learners grounded in their unique Jewish identities.
NEW THIS YEAR: Kindergarten–8th graders will also be learning the language of coding.
335 COLEWOOD WAY NW | SANDY SPRINGS, GA 30328-2956 EPSTEINATLANTA.ORG
September 2019 | Simply Buckhead
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T R AV E L FA R
Above: View 2,500 square feet of model trains at The Museum of the American Railroad. Left: Fans cool off in the lazy river at a RoughRiders game. Below: Even novice woodworkers can create a custom wooden plaque at Crafted. Right: Get your (retro) game on at the National Videogame Museum.
Fabulous
Sports fans flock to the Texas suburb, but there’s more to see in Sports City USA
I
t’s no mystery why Frisco, Texas, is called Sports City USA. Several professional sports teams practice and play there, and it’s home to sites such as the National Soccer Hall of Fame, Dr Pepper Ballpark and Toyota Stadium. Whether a game is being played at an arena, field or court, spectators are there cheering on the players, with even a growing fan base for the mysterious sport of cricket. A huge draw for visitors is The Star District, a 91-acre campus that includes the practice facility for the Dallas Cowboys. I never developed a love for football, but I was entertained by our hour-long tour, which included visits to the War Room, Nike Star Walk (a collection of 50 years of the team’s uniforms) and a chance to walk out on the practice field of America’s Team. The Star District also has shops, the Ford Center indoor stadium, the Omni Frisco Hotel, 12 sports bars, the Tostitos Championship Plaza boasting a 50-yard turf field and four interactive kiosks, and more than 20 restaurants. We had lunch at Zaytinya, where James Beard awardwinning chef José Andrés creates
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delicious mezze plates served with puffy, warm pita bread. Another huge attraction is the National Soccer Hall of Fame, where visitors can take the virtual skills challenge, test their soccer knowledge with a live-action trivia game, imitate U.S. goalkeepers and view 400 artifacts tracing the history of the sport in the U.S. If baseball is more your thing, take in a Frisco RoughRiders game at Dr Pepper Ballpark. But if you go, grab your swimsuit. Yes, swimsuit. The top-rated minor league park has a lazy river behind right field where you can catch the action while floating merrily along. It’s a novel way to cool off during those hot Texas days. Even if you’re not a huge sports fan, there’s plenty to do in this fastgrowing Dallas suburb. At the National
September 2019 | Simply Buckhead
STORY:
Jan Schroder
FRISCO
Jan Schroder
Videogame Museum, you can reconnect with your ’80s self via a game of PAC-MAN or Space Invaders and brush up on the history of one of our country’s other favorite pastimes. Explore the glory days of train travel and view the largest collection of Pullman cars in the country at the Museum of the American Railroad. Get outside and enjoy Frisco’s 90 miles of paved and natural paths or head to the city’s beautiful Central Park and view the life-size bronze statues in the installation Cattle Drive, depicting life on the Shawnee Trail. Or take a free selfguided tour of more than 150 works
of art at the Texas Sculpture Garden. Coming in November is the first U.S. location of KidZania, an indoor entertainment center with interactive spaces for kids ages 4 to 14 that allows them to try out different careers. Who knows, your youngster may discover they’re a future dentist, dancer or fashion designer. I discovered an affinity for power tools the night we visited Crafted, a do-it-yourself woodcrafting studio. We sipped wine as we stained, painted and assembled a large wooden plaque. Turns out I’m much better with a nail gun than a paintbrush. Our choice for accommodations was The Westin Stonebriar Hotel & Golf Club, where the amenities include a 24-hour fitness room, a huge lagoon pool with tons of lounge chairs, the Tom Faziodesigned golf course and a bocce ball court. Just in case you haven’t had enough sports. n Fans can create their own jerseys and scarves at the new National Soccer Hall of Fame.
FRISCO, TEXAS visitfrisco.com
Fine Fare & Impeccable Service Never Go Out of Style
A $ 200 Ultimate Card For You & $ 20 Ultimate Card For Your Guests!* * * The *
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planner or host will receive an Ultimate Dining Card (minimum of $�� and up to $���) based on the number of guests.
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S TAYC AT I O N
Visitors can take in Stone Mountain Park's natural beauty in a variety of spots, from the lakeside campground to the picturesque Grist Mill to the historic covered bridge.
SAVORING STONE MOUNTAIN PARK From championship golf courses to a dazzling laser light show, this 3,200-acre local park has attractions galore
W
hile many Atlantans head to Stone Mountain Park for the day, there’s much more to do at Georgia’s most visited attraction than a mere 24 hours can hold. Its most notable features include the Scenic Railroad, Summit Skyride and the popular Lasershow Spectacular, a 45-minute production projected on the side of the mountain. A wealth of activities take advantage of the park’s natural setting as well. Kayaking, biking, fishing, golf and hiking, including the 1-mile trek up Stone Mountain, are just some of the ways to enjoy the great outdoors. But the park also contains some historical sites, starting with the quarry exhibit detailing the park’s heritage. Long before Stone Mountain was sought out for its scenic beauty, the 1,686-foot dome, visible from
The quarry exhibit documents Stone Mountain’s history as a key source of granite for more than 100 years.
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the highest spots in Buckhead, was mined for its granite. Quarry operations ran from the 1840s to 1978, all of which is documented in an outdoor display along one side of the mountain. Signage, photographs, artifacts and scarring come together to tell the story not only of the quarry operations, but also of the many workers who carved the mountain into acre-size pieces of granite. Located at the base of the walk-up hiking trail in Confederate Hall, the Historical & Environmental Education Center documents the area’s geology and ecology through displays, interactive science exhibits and videos. One not-to-miss exhibit is the life-size cave that contains a video on the mountain’s origin. A great place for a photo or quiet reflection, the Grist Mill was built around 1869 in Fannin County in North Georgia, where it served the community for nearly a century. After being abandoned, it was renovated and relocated to the park around 1965. Just down from the Grist Mill, the Washington W. King Bridge is a latticestyle covered span constructed in Athens in 1891. After being damaged by floods, it was relocated to the park in 1965. Today, visitors can drive or walk across the bridge or enjoy a meal in the shade at the adjacent picnic area. Stone Mountain Park also served
September 2019 | Simply Buckhead
STORY:
Karon Warren
The Lasershow Spectacular is an Atlanta tradition featuring lights, music, lasers, fireworks and more.
as the venue of the archery and cycling events during the 1996 Summer Olympic Games. That same section of the park now serves as a songbird habitat that includes two 1-mile walking trails. The Meadow Trail is a loop around the habitat’s meadow that’s perfect for all ages and skill levels. The Woodland Trail starts along the Meadow Trail before forking off into the woods. It contains some hills but remains a good walk for all skill levels. For visitors who choose to stay overnight, a variety of lodging options are available. Since 1965, the Stone Mountain Inn has invited guests to experience the Southern charm and grace of its 92 guestrooms, outdoor courtyard, swimming pool and large veranda filled with rocking chairs. Opened in 1989, the Atlanta Evergreen Marriott Conference Center and Hotel offers a more modern stay. When not in your room, take a dip in either the indoor
or outdoor swimming pools, head to the fitness center or relax with a drink at the Rocks Pool Bar and Grill. Those looking to take full advantage of the park’s bucolic setting can do so at the Stone Mountain Park Campground, which boasts more than 400 RV, pop-up and tent sites, as well as yurt, safari tent and RV rentals. Alongside the lake, campers can enjoy a swimming pool, playground, horseshoe court and more. Stone Mountain Park may be best known for its long-running Lasershow Spectacular, but there’s much more to see and experience at this local treasure. n STONE MOUNTAIN PARK stonemountainpark.com
BUCKHEAD COMMONS PEACHTREE ROAD AT GRANDVIEW AVENUE
15+ SPECIALTY SHOPS
FRESH BAKED BREAD, GOURMET SALADS & SANDWICHES, AND HEALTHY SALAD PLATES
LOCATIONS BUCKHEAD • WESTSIDE • VININGS DUNWOODY • EAST COBB cafeatpharratlanta.com
September 2019 | Simply Buckhead
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September 2019 | Simply Buckhead
15 MINUTES WITH
MICHELLE A. MIDDLEBROOKS
STORY:
Jill Becker
PHOTO: Sara
Hanna
A
s a woman standing just five feet, four inches tall, Michelle A. Middlebrooks’ chosen career might surprise you. The 48-year-old is the battalion chief overseeing all five of the Buckhead-area fire stations. Based out of Station No. 21 on Roswell Road, she manages the 30-plus firefighters who bravely respond to calls for everything from house fires to suspicious packages, and is on scene herself in the case of major emergencies such as crane collapses or car accidents requiring the use of the Jaws of Life to free trapped passengers. The 20-year veteran of Atlanta Fire Rescue is currently the only female battalion chief in the department. How did you get into firefighting? I was working in security, and one day a firefighter came up and asked me where something was, and after I told him, he asked if I had any interest in being a firefighter, because they were looking to recruit more women. I went that very day and filled out the application. You have a degree in psychology. Did you originally intend to become a psychologist? I was already working as a firefighter when I started going to school. My idea was to learn as much as I could and get an education. It was important to me because no one in my immediate family had a degree, and I wanted to break that cycle. Now I’m working on getting my master’s in public safety administration. Tell us about life at the fire station. It’s just like a home, with sleeping quarters and a kitchen. The crew eats together and takes turns cooking. I work the C shift, which is from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Please tell us there’s a fire pole at the station. There is, but as battalion chief, I don’t really slide down it anymore. What are the majority of calls to the station about? It’s changed tremendously
over the last 20 years. I’d say that about 85% are now EMS calls relating to drug overdoses, injuries, colds and flu, and car accidents, and the other 15% are for fires and things such as hazardous materials, bomb threats, deploying airbags for possible jumpers and suspicious packages. What’s the most memorable call you’ve ever gotten? I delivered a baby once. The baby was crowning when we got there, and the mom was on the floor screaming. Afterward, I was practically in tears. It was almost as if this was my child. That was 18 years ago. It’s crazy to think that kid is an adult now. What’s the most common misconception about firefighters? That we sit around and watch TV all day. We have a lot of training and other things we have to do when we’re not responding to calls. If you could share one tip when it comes to fire safety, what would it be? Make sure your smoke detectors work. Change out your batteries twice a year, in the spring and fall. You’re deeply involved with a program called Camp Ignite. Tell us about that. We offer three-day camps to high school-age girls to show them what it’s like to
be a firefighter. Nationally, less than 4% of firefighters are women. It’s important to have more diversity. You’re a lifelong Atlantan, correct? Yes. I’ve lived in the same house in Grant Park since I was 2 years old. I bought the house from my parents. What’s one of your favorite places in Buckhead? Spa Sydell. I pamper myself a lot. Given the nature of my job, I need to decompress. What else do you do to relax? I have a timeshare near Helen, Georgia. I go there, get in the sauna, eat clean, meditate and reset my mind and body. n
September 2019 | Simply Buckhead
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AP P ROV E D
Radarcan Portable Mosquito 2.5-Sq Ft Insect Repeller ($17.97) These wearable devices require no spraying, rubbing or chemical layer. No one will know you’re secretly fending off mosquitoes while wearing what looks like a colorful watch band. As a bonus, the device still repels Lowe’s even if left on a table or clipped to your 4950 Peachtree bag, pocket or bike handle. Industrial Blvd. Chamblee 30341 770.220.0153 lowes.com
BUG BRIGADE
Aunt Fannie’s Mosquito Wipe ($6.99) A sophisticated alternative to messy sprays, Target these individu5570 Roswell Rd. Sandy Springs 30342 ally wrapped, DEET-free wipes protect skin from 678.704.8120 mosquito bites for up to target.com four hours. Made with essential oils such as peppermint, lemongrass, sesame and olive, they repel naturally without chemicals and leave behind a minty scent without a sticky residue. Drop a few in your backpack or purse so you’re always prepared.
Here in the South we have our fair share of bugs, including commonly known offenders such as horse flies, bees, wasps and mosquitoes. These stinging pests are a warm-weather annoyance that has to be endured when enjoying outdoor time, so whether you’re picnicking at Chastain Park or just hanging out in your own backyard, an insect-prevention plan is essential to a distraction- and bite-free outing. Here are some tools to add to your arsenal. STORY:
Jessica Dauler
Greenerways Organic DEET Free Bug Repellent ($8.99) This natural, organic spray formula is nontoxic and fends off a variety of pests, including mosquitos, ticks and fleas that can be dangerous disease carriers. Citronella and cedar oil are the main ingredients, leaving behind a fresh scent minus the oily residue found in many chemical formulas. A fan favorite, it was recently voted one of the 10 best organic bug sprays by BestReviewsGuide.com. Nuts 'n Berries 4274 Peachtree Rd. N.E. Atlanta 30319 404.254.0330 nutsnberries.com
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September 2019 | Simply Buckhead
Flowtron Electronic 1-Acre Mosquito Killer with Mosquito Attractant ($72.74) This environmentally friendly lantern attracts and kills mosquitoes, black flies and other flying pests without you having to cover yourself and everyone else in stinky bug spray or treat your yard with pesticides. It protects up to one acre and can remain outdoors year-round. The Home Depot 2525 Piedmont Rd. N.E. Atlanta 30324 404.841.5608 homedepot.com
Thermacell MR300 Portable Mosquito Repeller ($24.99) This convenient, easy-to-use device generates heat to vaporize liquid repellent, creating a protective 15-by-15 foot zone that drives away mosquitoes and other biting insects before they can bother you. It’s portable, lightweight and cordless, and uses a replenishable fuel cartridge that can last for hours or days. Perfect for camping or hiking. Dick’s Sporting Goods 3535 Peachtree Rd. Atlanta 30326 404.267.0200 dickssportinggoods.com
Skeem Design Citronella Sea Salt Votive Set ($64) Stylishly shoo bugs away with these all-natural, 50-hour votive candles. In additional to insectrepelling citronella, the blend includes sea salt and hints of jasmine. HandBallard Designs poured, the silk-screened 1235 Chattahoochee glass candle holders beauAve. N.W. tify your backyard or make Atlanta 30318 a chic hostess gift for your 404.603.7033 next weekend gathering. ballarddesigns.com
A Place Where You Belong
Spend the day or evening on the Town! Discover over 50 shops, services and restaurants. Town Brookhaven is truly your one stop shopping and dining destination with a blend of interesting boutiques, delicious restaurants and useful services. ANCHORS CinéBistro/Cobb Theatre • Costco • LA Fitness • Marshalls • Publix
APPAREL & ACCESSORIES Boogaloos • Dress Up Boutique • Vestique
SHOES Big Peach Running Co.
HEALTH, WELLNESS & BEAUTY 18|8 Fine Men’s Salon • Benchmark Physical Therapy Brookhaven Orthodontics • Emory Clinic • European Wax Center GNC (General Nutrition Center) • Intown Pediatrics The Joint - The Chiropractic Place Julian’s Cosmetics and Skincare • Massage Heights Nail Talk & Tan • Saks Salon Salon Red • Salon Red Kids • Town Dentistry Vein Clinics of America • Vida-Flo: The Hydration Station
DINING Bua Thai and Sushi • The Flying Biscuit Café HOBNOB Neighborhood Tavern • Lucky’s Burger & Brew Marble Slab Creamery • Moe’s Southwest Grill Newk’s Express Café • Olde Blind Dog Irish Pub Red Pepper Taqueria • Tanaka Ramen There Restaurant and Bar • Tropical Smoothie Café Which Wich? • Yogurtland
HOME FURNISHINGS & DÉCOR Redefined Home Boutique
SERVICES Bank of the Ozarks • Brookhaven Alterations Brookhaven Animal Hospital • FBC Mortgage • Keller Williams Reflections Eyecare • Town Cleaners • U Break I Fix
ELECTRONICS, MUSIC & ENTERTAINMENT AT&T
www.townbrookhaven.net Conveniently located on Peachtree Road adjacent to Oglethorpe University.
September 2019 | Simply Buckhead
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DETAILS Buck’s Sports Barn 2303-B Peachtree Rd. Atlanta 30309 404.869.8003 buckssportbarn.com Catch Air 5920 Roswell Rd. Sandy Springs 30328 678.882.1205 catchairparty.com CityHunt Atlanta cityhunt.com Legoland Discovery Center 3500 Peachtree Rd. N.E. Atlanta 30326 404.848.9252 atlanta.legolanddiscovery center.com Oodazu 800 Miami Cir. N.E. Atlanta 30324 404.565.0259 oodazu.com
The team at Legoland can construct the perfect shingdig for your elementary-aged child.
Kids Birthday Bashes With a Bang
STORY:
Sue Rodman
BUCKHEAD-AREA VENUES THAT MAKE PARTY PLANNING A PIECE OF CAKE
W
hen it comes to their kids’ birthdays, some parents enjoy the idea of having a gaggle of youngsters over to the house for a themed extravaganza complete with homemade cake and party games. But some would prefer that the chaos and mess take place somewhere else. For those folks, we have the perfect list of party places for every age child, and all you have to do is pick up the phone.
Catering to Toddlers and Preschoolers Catch Air in Sandy Springs is a bounce house extraordinaire that’s a favorite with the littlest partygoers. In addition to inflatables, there’s Tiny Town, a special area specifically for kids under 4 feet tall. The Sandy Springs location features a tiny carousel, ball pit and light-up dance floor. Parties include 80 minutes of playtime and 40 minutes in a private party room, and you can bring your own cake if you like.
Options for Elementary-Age Kids Birthday celebrations at Legoland Discovery Center in Phipps Plaza include
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60 minutes in a private room and include pizza, cupcakes and bottomless fountain drinks. After that, everyone is offered unlimited use of the attraction. Kids can challenge each other to the best two out of three on the interactive videogame-like ride Kingdom Quest (tip: earn the most points by shooting the ogre at the beginning of the ride), build and test Lego Racers to their hearts’ content, pretend to be swashbucklers on Private Adventure Island and spin until they can’t take it anymore on the Merlin’s Apprentice ride. Oodazu is a kids’ haven that started in Los Angeles. The yoga studio/ indoor play experience has recently opened a location here on Miami Circle. Parties at Oodazu include a private room and two-hour play passes. If yoga isn’t your children’s thing, they can attack the climbing wall, play PopA-Shot or try the futuristic virtual reality pods where they can experience one of 50 different scenarios, including the popular Candy Roller Coaster or an action-packed scene from Star Wars. Best of all, there’s a parents’ lounge complete with TVs, laptop stations and a live video feed for keeping an eye on your youngsters.
September 2019 | Simply Buckhead
Finding Tween Fun Parties at Buck’s Sports Barn are held in a 1940s-era barn located on two acres along Peachtree Road in Buckhead. (Buck’s can also bring the fun to your place if you’d rather.) You can expect 75 minutes of activities and 45 minutes for cake and presents. Buck’s has a celebration to inspire any age, including finicky tweens. For example, kids can learn aerial arts from a professional circus performer or see who gets to the finish line first in a ninja-style obstacle course.
Impressing the Hard-to-Please Teen Crowd
They may play it cool, but even teens still love getting together to celebrate their big day with friends and family. It’s not always easy, however, to find an appropriate activity to keep them entertained. One option is CityHunt Atlanta, which organizes area scavenger hunts. Using a mobile app, teens scour a section of Buckhead to complete a photo safari. It may sound easy, but many of the prompts will require some rather creative thinking. Kids can go in one group or compete against each other. CityHunt customizes the experience, so it can have whatever theme you choose, or, if you’re on a budget, you can pick one of its preplanned Ready-Set-Go Parties at Oodazu include futuristic fun in virtual reality pods. Adventures. n
HOM E | B U L L E T I N B OA RD | TA S T E M A K E R
SIMPLY LIVING
TASTEMAKER Magic Carpets P38 To be considered antique, a rug has to be at least 100 years old. — Mohamad Gavahi
Mohamad Gavahi has been in the rug business in Atlanta for 35 years. Photo: Sara Hanna
September 2019 | Simply Buckhead
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Plantation shutters, natural stone and coffered ceilings set an elegant tone in the living room.
A Serendipitous Spot A Brookhaven couple takes a chance and succeeds with their first family home STORY:
The Davises have come to cherish their Brookhaven home as a perfect place to raise their family.
S
ometimes you simply fall into a good thing. That’s what happened to custom homebuilder Chris Davis and his wife, Elizabeth Saylor Davis, when they decided to make what was supposed to be a spec home in Brookhaven their permanent address. “The neighborhood was getting so much buzz, the schools kept getting better and we were getting married, so we thought maybe we should just move into the house,” says Elizabeth, a
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September 2019 | Simply Buckhead
Giannina S. Bedford PHOTOS: Sara Hanna
business owner with Northwestern Mutual. Since moving in seven years ago, they’ve fallen in love with their neighborhood and raising their two kids—5-year-old Kaki and 2-yearold Henry—in it. A few years ago, they considered selling the property to build another home, but the strong ties developed with the community changed their minds. “I come across buildable lots often, but we stayed because of our neighbors,” says Chris, owner and founder of KBD Development. “This is a perfect neighborhood for raising kids.” Although the design and finishes of the 4,700-square-foot home were initially selected to sell, the Davises have personalized the traditional interior with their own vibrant touch. Goodwill finds, antiques and midcentury pieces are at home among accents of black, brass and green to create a transitionalmeets-Hollywood Regency style fitting with the homeowners’ dynamic dispositions. “I like bold, fun things, like my personality, I
suppose,” says Elizabeth. “I like to have some fun pieces, but try to balance it out.” In the living room, gold chairs from One Kings Lane, a Lucite coffee table from DirectBuy, an antique gold mirror from eBay and pottery from stores such as Roswell’s Board of Trade speak to Elizabeth’s love of shopping for a deal. “I’m a big bargain girl. I just love knowing that I got a deal,” says Elizabeth. Every so often the Davises splurge. The porch off the living room, for example, is furnished in an oversized Arhaus sofa “that wasn’t cheap.” And the porch, the couple’s favorite room, is equipped with Eze-Breeze windows that slide up and down to create a year-round indoor or outdoor environment. “We have picnics out there, we eat dinner out there, we’ll even bundle up and watch movies out there in the fall or winter,” says Elizabeth. The keeping room off the kitchen is another popular hangout. Last October, they painted the walls and ceiling Sherwin-Williams
Below: The kitchen’s high-end finishes, including the Novo Blanca marble, have held up remarkably well in the high-traffic household.
Above: Chris’ edgy office has everything you need to run a business, plus some cowhide and pop art. Right: Located behind black pocket doors, the emerald-green keeping room is the Davises’ preferred place to watch TV.
“I’m a big bargain girl. I just love knowing that I got a deal.” –Elizabeth Saylor Davis a gallery-purchased piece. Family-made masterpieces also adorn the walls of the kitchen’s informal yet chic eat-in area, where a custom poplar table is surrounded by Lucite chairs. Serena & Lily Riviera barstools offer another casual dining spot overlooking the kitchen’s gray cabinets, Nova Blanca marble countertops, Carrara beveled subway tile and Fisher & Paykel appliances. For upscale affairs, the Davises entertain in the dining room, where a midcentury table from Antiques & Beyond is surrounded by mix-and-match chairs. Across the foyer is Chris’ office, which makes its own design statement with an Arhaus partner desk, antique cabinet for storing blueprints and chairs the Davises had recovered in cowhide at Southern
Upholstery. Above Chris’ workspace is a large black-and-white canvas print he designed from his company logo in an abstract-meetspop-art style. “I like the functionality of my office the most,” says Chris. When the work and school day is over, the family heads upstairs. Kaki’s girly bedroom is adorned with Chicago street art depicting a pink-hued face and an abstract piece Elizabeth painted on her first Mother’s Day. Henry’s not-so-little-boy quarters includes a mishmash of street art from Cannes, a giraffe print from Simple Finds antique consignment and a beach photo print from Joss & Main. “This is one of my favorite rooms aesthetically,” says Elizabeth. “I just love how the colors came together and that it works as a little boy’s room but without the typical nursery feel.” s
Rainforest, a vivid emerald green, Elizabeth’s favorite color. They adorned the room with a leopard rug, sectional and coffee table. Mounted on the wall around the television are 16 clay medallions the family crafted together and framed. “If you look closely, you can tell we made them, but they’re fun because they have a story,” says Chris. On a wall near the living room, a vignette of framed works showcases the Charleston church where the Davises got married, a San Francisco ink drawing the couple bought during their first adults trip after kids and an original photograph of the subway stop outside Elizabeth’s first apartment in Chicago. It all surrounds a “scribble finger painting” by Henry that, inserted in a $9 frame from Goodwill, could easily pass for
The Davises often eat meals in this dining nook off the kitchen, which is furnished with a rustic poplar table and Lucite chairs.
September 2019 | Simply Buckhead
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Above: The master bedroom features a stylish sitting area and Elizabeth’s at-home workspace, which she placed facing a window for the best light. Left: Bentley, the family pooch, makes himself at home on Henry’s big-boy bed from Room & Board. Below: The marble-clad master bath is big enough to fit the whole family.
ELIZABETH SAYLOR DAVIS’ 5 FAVORITE PLACES TO BARGAIN HUNT FOR HOME DECOR IN ATLANTA 1. Goodwill. “Because when you decide to redo your bookshelves with hardback books that must coordinate with your decor, you just can’t beat $1.50 a book. Look for the color of the day to get 50% off!”
In the master, the Davises selected a gray twill bed and surrounded it with a dresser purchased from a consignment store in Canton, a Room & Board chair, Crate & Barrel floor lamp and various Wayfair finds in the sitting area. Their love for Nova Blanca marble continues in the master bath, where the shower is big enough for the whole family to enjoy. What the kids love most, however, is the basement-level playroom, which opens to a sprawling twotiered backyard complete with putting green. “The yard goes all the way out to the wooden fence, and there’s a creek back there,” says Chris. “That’s why I bought the lot. Seven-tenths of an acre in town is hard to find.” The Davises also spend ample time in the front yard, where they enjoy impromptu socializing with neighbors who stroll by. Chris says their white picket fence makes the front yard a
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September 2019 | Simply Buckhead
“de facto gathering place.” And that’s the reason, despite opportunities to upgrade and expand to another home, the Davises have happily chosen to stay. “The community of friends we have here is irreplaceable,” says Elizabeth. “The combination of those relationships with the walkability to the Dresden restaurants, the fabulous elementary school and the ease of jumping on I-85—it’s the perfect location for us.” n Right: Chris and Elizabeth’s favorite room, the porch can be made indoor or outdoor thanks to the Eze-Breeze windows that are made of rubber and “hard for the kids to break.”
2. Simple Finds. “Bring your walking shoes and perhaps a map. This place goes on and on and has a great mix of items and price points.” 3. Antiques & Beyond. “The staff here is just so nice. They even smile when I come through the door with my kids and massive stroller. And there are lots of beautiful and well-priced furniture pieces.” 4. My Favorite Place. “Amidst the junk, there are treasures to be had. Not my go-to for furniture or larger pieces, but great for filler items.” 5. HomeGoods. “For when you’d like something clean and fresh off a delivery truck. Everything is reasonably priced, and their customer service is great when you need to return things that weren’t quite right.”
Simply Outstanding “#1 Children’s Museum in the US!” – TravelingMom.com
BO GA RT Z FOOD ARTZ
A
OF
POSSIBILITIES
227 Sandy Springs Place NE, Suite 502 Sandy Springs, GA 30328
833FOODART (833 366 3278) bogartzfoodartz.com
childrensmuseumatlanta.org 404.527.3693 275 Centennial Olympic Park Dr. Atlanta, GA 30313
Georgia Power Foundation, Inc.
Parkside
Parlor
BLOW OUT
parksideparlor.com
404.252.9099
5920 Roswell Road, Suite C-205, Sandy Springs, GA 30328 (Located just outside of 285 off Roswell Road)
Hours of Operation Tues-Sat 9-7 Sunday 12-5 Mondays Appointment only
September 2019 | Simply Buckhead
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BULLETIN BOARD
BY:
Giannina S. Bedford
Posh Up
YOUR PORCH TIPS TO GET YOUR OUTDOOR SPACE FALL READY WITHOUT BREAKING THE BANK
AFTER-HOURS HOME SHOPPING H
2. Swap out your blooms. Bring out the season’s colors with red dahlias, yellow mums and sunflowers. Place them in rustic planters or create your own by carving out pumpkins and filling them with blossoms.
n Atlanta’s oldest and largest locally-owned and -operated residential real estate firm is expanding its reach. Buckheadbased Dorsey Alston
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September 2019 | Simply Buckhead
5. Put out pumpkins and gourds. Go monochromatic by selecting all-white or all-orange pumpkins or mix it up. You can also throw in cornstalks and a hay bale.
SPOTLIGHT
Axor Starck Single-Hole Faucet
DESIGN & REAL ESTATE NEWS
Realtors plans to open its first intown office in VirginiaHighland later this year. The firm recently closed on the purchase of a 1919 building on North Highland Avenue that formerly housed Harvest
4. Layer your doormat. Dress up your entry by placing a festive outdoor rug under your mat. This helps create depth and adds a pop of color without overdoing it.
PRODUCT
stickler, Engel & Völkers Atlanta’s founder and CEO, sees the idea as a great alternative for busy clients. “Buying a home can be a major time commitment. Twilight Open House is one of the ways buyers can keep their workday and weekends house-hunt-free,” says Huffstickler. “They come in, grab a glass of wine and roam around without the stress of needing to get back to the office. It’s flexible, and that’s something buyers need nowadays.” For more information, visit twilightopen.com. n
Dorsey Alston’s Patrick Wood, Rip Sartain, Michael Rogers and Carson Matthews in front of the firm’s future intown office.
cozy blanket and fall-hued pillows on front porch seating.
3. Tack on those textiles. Drape a
ENGEL & VÖLKERS OFFERS WEEKNIGHT OPEN HOUSES TO ATLANTA BUYERS ome buying can feel like a full-time job, one that takes up the majority of your weekend. Engel & Völkers Atlanta is trying to remedy that with a Twilight Open House. Launched in May by the Buckhead-based real estate firm, these open houses take place on a weeknight to provide flexibility in the home-search experience. Tours are typically held from 4 to 7 p.m., and in addition to offering exclusive access to for-sale homes, they entertain potential buyers with cocktails and light bites. Christa Huff-
1. Add a touch of nature. Create a wreath or garland with longlasting magnolia leaves, pine cones, twigs or natural cotton stems. Tip: Pinterest has tons of wreath-making tutorials.
Restaurant and La Raine’s Bridal Boutique. The company, which already has offices in Buckhead and East Cobb, is responding to the national trend of homeowners moving back to the urban core. dorseyalston.com
n Thirteen years after founding Huff Harrington Fine Art and eight years after the launch of Huff Harrington Home, both in Buckhead, Ann Huff and Meg Harrington have started a full-service interior design business. Huff
Harrington Design offers whole-home design and space planning, as well as individual space enhancement. huffharrington.com n Congratulations to Karen Ferguson, who was recently honored as Residential Designer of the Year at the 2019 Southeast Designers and Architect of the Year Awards presented in part by the Atlanta Decorative Arts Center. Ferguson is the director of interior design at Buckhead-based Harrison Design. harrisondesign.com
Axor, the creator of high-end faucets, showerheads and accessories for bathrooms and kitchens, celebrates 25 years of its Axor Starck collection. The simple and timeless line is a collaboration with Philippe Starck, the influential contemporary designer whose genius has touched everything from speakers and chandeliers to mega-yachts. Five collections later, Axor Starck products, such as the Axor Starck SingleHole Faucet, remain iconic. The joystick-handle faucet is available for immediate shipment from Ferguson Bath, Kitchen & Lighting Gallery in Buckhead for $666.92 (chrome finish) or $948.91 (nickel finish). fergusonshowrooms.com
Accepting New Patients! Primary Care of Brookhaven is a full-service primary care practice providing the highest quality care possible to families of the Brookhaven and the Atlanta Metro Area. Our board-certified physicians, Dr. Jennifer Burkmar and Dr. Jeffrey Reznik provide care for the whole patient, and offer a full range of family medicine services, including: • Primary Care for Patients of All Ages Including Newborns • Immunizations for Children and Adults • Acute Illness Care & Chronic Disease Management • School & Sport Physicals • Women’s Health Services • Preventative Health Consultations We take pride in serving each patient with personalized attention and care, accept most insurance plans, and offer same day appointments for sick visits.
Jennifer Burkmar, MD, MBA, FAAFP
Jeffrey Reznik, MD, FAAFP
Call 404-365-6500 for an appointment • 4062 Peachtree Road, Suite C Brookhaven, GA 30319 PrimaryC areofBrookhaven.com
September 2019 | Simply Buckhead
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TA S T E MA K E R
“Oriental rug” is generally used for rugs that are made by hand. There are many countries known to be involved in creating beautiful handmade rugs, such as Iran, Turkey, India, China and Pakistan. “Persian rug” means it was made in Persia. Persia is known for its history of rug-making, and the designs, ideas and color combinations used by all [rug makers] are 90% Persian. What’s considered an antique rug? It has to be at least 100 years old. What’s the price of an Oriental rug based on? Where it’s made, the material, the quality of the knotting, how old it is and what condition it’s in. The finer the knotting, the longer it takes to make, meaning more labor and a higher cost. Just like antique furniture, an antique rug from the 17th, 18th or 19th century will cost more because of its history, personality and character. Of course, when a rug is more than 100 years old, it’s not going to be like a brand-new rug, but it should be in fair condition. If it’s perfect, of course, it will be more valuable and expensive. ANTIQUE RUG CLEANING TIP Weekly, give it a good vacuum. Every 7 to 10 years, take it to a professional carpet cleaner experienced in handling antique rugs. “This is an art that needs to be done by an expert. It will protect the value of your rug,” says Gavahi.
Magic Carpets Mohamad Gavahi of Atlanta Fine Rugs reveals how to shop for a quality Oriental rug STORY:
Karina Antenucci
PHOTO: Sara
M
Hanna
ohamad Gavahi’s family has been a purveyor of high-end antique rugs for generations. Originally a domestic business in Iran, the company was moved to Zurich, Switzerland, in 1979 so the Gavahis could expand their business internationally. A few years later, during trips to visit two
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of his brothers who were studying at Georgia Tech, Gavahi had the idea to open up a small shop in Atlanta as well. “I fell in love with Atlanta. I love the city. I love the people,” he says. After opening the first showroom of Atlanta Fine Rugs on Cobb Parkway in 1984, the entire operation was eventually moved stateside. Today, the family maintains seven showrooms in the Southeast, including one on Buckhead’s Miami Circle managed by Gavahi’s daughter Niki,
September 2019 | Simply Buckhead
and they attend all of the big antique shows across the U.S. “We have one of the biggest selections of Persian and Oriental rugs in the country,” says Gavahi, whose clients include designers and individuals from all over the country, including celebrities such as Elton John and Jane Fonda. Here, Gavahi shares his know-how on selecting a quality rug. What do the terms “Persian rug” and “Oriental rug” mean?
What should you look for in a legitimate merchant? [Things such as] how long they’ve been in business, how they’ve treated their customers and what kind of reputation they have. Also, what selection do they have? If they’ve been in business for several decades, like we have, it shows you that they’re selling the right merchandise and taking care of customers. What’s the current trend in Oriental rugs? The market has changed color-wise compared to 20 or 30 years ago. People are staying away from the strong, traditional colors. Softer colors are in. We have our own production in Turkey, India and Pakistan that manufactures these softer tones. Right now, there’s an embargo on the importation of Persian rugs. How has that changed your business? Before, we were one of the largest importers of Persian rugs in the U.S. Over the last five years, we’ve shifted to include antiques of all kinds at our showrooms, including furniture and art. We buy them in Europe and America, oftentimes from our older customers who are downsizing their homes. n
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BEAUTY
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“The body is as important as the face. We get older on our face and on our bodies.” — Nina Goodwin
At her new Formah Brazilian Beauty Center, Nina Goodwin focuses on technology-driven body treatments. Photo: Sara Hanna
September 2019 | Simply Buckhead
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FA S H I ON
Left: McKenna’s swimsuits are designed to flatter the body.
Inspired by her 3-yearold daughter (pictured above), McKenna (right) created a collection of matching bikinis for moms and daughters.
MAKING WAVES GIANINE MCKENNA DESIGNS SWIMWEAR INSPIRED BY HER BRAZILIAN ROOTS
A
fter moving to the U.S. from her native Brazil, Gianine McKenna couldn’t let go of the triangle-shaped swimsuits traditionally attributed to her home country. At the young age of 10, she knew what was flattering for her body. “I don’t think I’ve ever owned an American swimsuit. I would always go back to Brazil to buy them,” says McKenna. “I prefer the V-shape in Brazilian swimsuits versus the U.S. U-shape in the back area. I see women putting on swimsuits every single day, and 99% of the time, [the V-shape] is more flattering on them. It’s more intimidating for them to wear, but once they do, they never go back.” McKenna discovered a demand for these swimsuits in 2013, when she brought back a suitcase full of bikinis from Brazil and began selling them to friends and family. “They sold out within a week,” she says.
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She decided to launch her business, Gianine Bikini, and start designing swimsuits with better patterns and fabric. She’s created three collections so far, and today, her company also includes lingerie and beachwear based on her designs. For McKenna, quality is a priority. She works closely with Brazilian manufacturers to produce her designs and uses the best local Lycra to stay true to the style and quality that has made her business successful. Her latest swimwear collection, released this year, is called Birds of Paradise. “I stuck to the roots of Brazil: birds and the Amazon, with vibrant reds and yellows for this collection. The prints stand out but remain mature and sophisticated,” she says. “I feel like even here in the U.S., people relate to the tropics. It translates to everybody.” The one trend she’s following this season?
September 2019 | Simply Buckhead
STORY:
Muriel Vega
The ever-forgiving ruffle detail on some of her bottoms. Using the same fabric from the adult collection and inspired by her daughter, McKenna also launched a matching mini-me kids collection this year. “I was trying to buy swimsuits for my 3-year-old daughter, but they were baggy. They had a ton of extra fabric,” she says. “My goal when designing this collection for the kids was to make it fit perfectly so they can jump in the water.” While McKenna conducts all sales through her e-commerce site, she does offer private appointments for fittings at a small studio in her Brookhaven home. It’s crucial for her to be hands-on with current and potential customers for correct sizing and encouragement. “A lot of times it’s the first time these women are putting on a bikini, but when they put it on, their whole vibe changes
because they feel great in it. That’s really rewarding for me,” she says. Aside from expanding her family (McKenna is due with her second child in September), she’s also expanding her line to include a fitness collection this fall. The new line will consist of crop tops, long-sleeve tops, pants and sports bras. “There’s a lot of V-necks, mesh and great fitting leggings,” she says. “We’re going to have an exclusive cheetah-in-thejungle print for a tropical winter vibe.” McKenna looks to the future as she says that her athleisure collection is one more step toward her goal of opening a brick-and-mortar store in Atlanta. “Everything is lining up perfectly in my view,” she says. n For more info, visit gianinebikini.com. To schedule an appointment for a personal fitting, call 404.372.6080.
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September 2019 | Simply Buckhead 
43
W E LLN ESS
Turn your commute into a workout with these in-car exercises from certified trainer Brandon Butler.
Accelerating Fitness
Put the pedal to the metal with these five in-car exercises
STORY:
Nicole Letts PHOTOS: Sara Hanna
A
ccording to a 2019 study by safe driving resource Educated Driver, metro Atlantans will spend an average of 10.45 days of their lives commuting this year alone. Beyond the obvious health ramifications of that much driving, including stress and inactivity, certified fitness expert Brandon Butler of Pinnacle Fitness in Buckhead says sitting for prolonged periods can lead to other concerns. “The things that come with sitting include weight gain, disease risk with dementia, diabetes and heart health, as well as anxiety and back pain,” says Butler. Since commuting in Atlanta is a way of life, and time before and after commuting is often limited, Butler guided us through some exercises to do in our cars, saving time and improving our health one slow mile at a time. Of course, you should only do these exercises when you’re stopped at a light, parked, in the passenger seat or otherwise operating under safe conditions.
MUSCLES WORKED: GLUTEUS MAXIMUS
3. PELVIC TILT MUSCLES WORKED: ABDOMINALS AND GLUTEUS MAXIMUS
With your hands on the steering wheel at 10 and 2 o’clock, squeeze your shoulder blades together. You should feel your shoulders and chest lift up as you push through to extend the muscles and then retract. Do this same move with your hands at 11 and 1 and then 7 and 5.
With both hands on the wheel, take your pelvis and tilt it forward, tucking it into your stomach by squeezing your core and glutes together, while also squeezing your lower back. Keep your shoulders still. Then release and repeat.
4. FLASHLIGHTS (HAND RELEASES) MUSCLES WORKED: FOREARMS AND HANDS
With one hand on the wheel, take your other hand and place it on the ceiling of your car. Press slightly for five seconds. While you’re pressing up, put tension on that shoulder and then release. Repeat on the other side.
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September 2019 | Simply Buckhead
With your hands on the wheel, sit up tall. Imagine you’re trying to touch the ceiling of your car with the crown of your head, which automatically engages your abs. Tilt your shoulders to the left. While tilting, squeeze the abs, trying to keep the lower part of your abs directly up. Do not tilt your entire torso to the left; instead, simply tilt your shoulders to the left. Repeat this move on your other side by tilting your shoulders to the right.
GLUTE CONTRACTIONS
MUSCLES WORKED: SHOULDERS AND BACK
MUSCLES WORKED: ANTERIOR, REAR AND SIDE DELTOIDS
MUSCLES WORKED: OBLIQUES
HONORABLE MENTION:
1. SHOULDER RETRACTION
2. STATIC SHOULDER PRESS
5. SIDE SAXONS
With one hand on the wheel, push the other hand forward as if you’re trying to tell someone to stop. Next, imagine you’re holding a stress ball and squeeze your hand to crush the ball, then spread your fingers as wide as you can. Alternate squeezing your hand and extending your fingers. Repeat with your other hand.
This final exercise can’t be seen, but is worth a mention. While sitting with both hands on the wheel, squeeze the glutes together and then release. Repeat. n PINNACLE FITNESS 3215 Cains Hills Pl. N.W. 404.228.3705 Atlanta 30305 pinnaclefitnessgym.com
September 2019 | Simply Buckhead 
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B E AU TY
IN FINE
FORM
A NEW BEAUTY STUDIO IS PRIMED TO TRANSFORM BUCKHEAD BODIES STORY:
Jennifer Bradley Franklin
PHOTO: Sara
Hanna
W
hen your goal is to stay youthful-looking, you might immediately turn to treatments for the face. There are certainly many to choose from, what with injectables, peels, lifts and facials all available in the Buckhead area. However, with the recent opening of Formah Brazilian Beauty Center, proprietor Nina Goodwin says she is “trying to help people understand that the body is as important as the face. We get older on our face and on our bodies.” Several years ago, Brazilian-born Goodwin, who has lived in Atlanta for more than 15 years, had two children and longed for access to the same forward-thinking, holistic, technologydriven body treatments she had in Brazil. She worked for a time under her ReDefine by Nina aesthetics business, then, through friends, connected with the partners behind the four locations of Formah in Brazil. With more than 10 years of experience, “I knew I needed to learn more to go to the next level, so we decided to bring them here,” Goodwin explains. Formah Atlanta, which opened in April, has four spa-like treatment rooms in a quaint former house on East Shadowlawn in Buckhead. There, clients can book services such as Drenoredux ($99) to help reduce accumulated fat and contour areas such as the stomach, arms and thighs, or the Bye Bye Cellulite treatment ($99) that combines manual massage and high-tech equipment to eliminate toxins and stimulate collagen production, thereby reducing the appearance of localized lumps. “We offer exactly what they offer in Brazil,” says Goodwin. “Our treatments and protocols give you amazing results.” The brand’s Instagram page (@formahbeauty) displays undoctored before and after
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photographs that validate the claims. For instance, in just 90 minutes, the Ultradetox ($199) can help eliminate as much as four pounds and reveal smoother, tighter skin, making it a popular choice before a vacation or special event. All of the treatments are noninvasive and non-surgical solutions to common concerns both women and men have about their bodies, including loose skin, puffiness or extra weight, cellulite and stretch marks. While Formah’s treatments are designed to stand alone, they’re often compatible with surgical procedures. “Lots of doctors don’t tell you to do lymphatic drainage after surgery, [but
September 2019 | Simply Buckhead
it can be helpful],” says Goodwin. “For instance, after liposuction, you get a lot of lumps and bumps, but we can help fix that so you get a better version of what you were expecting.” While some things, such as significant extra weight or loose skin, can only be addressed surgically, Formah can help with many of the most common cosmetic concerns. Each treatment starts with a gratis consultation with Goodwin herself, during which she offers a thorough evaluation. “I’m honest with people and tell them what can and cannot be done,” she says. During the 30-minute consult, she’ll discuss any specific concerns clients may have
and which treatments can offer the best results. In general, while clients do often see noticeable results after just one session, she’s quick to point out that the most dramatic and lasting results come over time. “It’s not a one-time treatment. You don’t go to the gym once or diet for one day,” she says. “It’s a commitment for the client and our team.” n FORMAH BRAZILIAN BEAUTY CENTER 3103 E. Shadowlawn Ave. N.E. Atlanta 30305 404.883.3647 formahbeauty.com
September 2019 | Simply Buckhead 
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TA S T E MA K E R
What research are you doing? We got a $13 million grant about a year ago and just started enrolling for a multicenter study. We’re looking at three different types of stem cell products, one from bone marrow, one from fat and one from umbilical cord tissue. A big part of my practice at this point is doing this regenerative medicine, orthobiologics, and that’s where all my research interests lie. But I also still treat sprains and strains and fractures and all the simple sports stuff that happens. What is orthobiologics? Orthobiologics really involves any sort of biologic agent—usually one’s own blood, bone marrow or fat tissue—that’s used to augment the healing response and treat the chronic pain associated with soft tissue or arthritic conditions. Racehorses were the initial athletes who they were doing this on. You know the good thing about treating horses? There’s really no placebo effect. They’re either better or they’re not.
THE FIX IS IN Using groundbreaking orthobiologics, Dr. Ken Mautner heals Atlanta’s pro athletes, weekend warriors and more STORY:
P
Michael Jacobs
hysician Ken Mautner lives on the cutting edge of healing athletes without cutting. The Buckhead resident leads the nonsurgical side of the Emory Sports Medicine Center in Brookhaven, with a focus on using minimally invasive treatments to get athletes of all ages and abilities back to their games. The 45-year-old is often the first and sometimes only physician in Georgia to use certain nonsurgical treatments, such as an ultrasound device called Sonex that ends the nerve pain of carpal tunnel syndrome. His practice is one of the
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few to use ultrasound to diagnose sports injuries as well as treat them. It’s not surprising he has early access to technologies and techniques: He and mentor Gerry Malanga co-wrote one of the books on the topic, Atlas of Ultrasound-Guided Musculoskeletal Injections. A prominent part of the Tulane Medical School grad’s work is serving as the head team physician for the Atlanta Hawks, whose practice facility is just down the stairs from his office. He’s also one of about 10 doctors working with the Atlanta Braves. “I don’t work for the teams,” explains Mautner. “I work for Emory, and I’m contracted to take care of the [players].” Through his practice, Mautner
September 2019 | Simply Buckhead
helped extend the career of former Atlanta Dream player Nikki Teasley using a treatment of platelet-rich plasma for a chronic knee tendon problem. He also consults on the cases of Georgia Tech athletes and is the team physician for Pace Academy. But he’s happy not to be one of the Atlanta Falcons’ physicians. “I’m a huge Saints fan,” says the New Orleans native. What drew you to sports medicine? I always wanted to work with athletes. I thought about exercise physiology, physical therapy and other things, but I wanted to become a doctor. I found a profession where I could treat athletes, see them in clinic, do procedures and be a sports medicine practitioner.
What does it mean to have this Emory sports medicine complex? Being able to treat the best athletes in the world and keep them healthy and on the court allows us to translate what’s happening there to people like you and me who are weekend warriors and just like to stay active, all the way down to middle school and high school kids, who are getting the same kind of injuries we see in professional athletes. Do you have any memorable cases? Some of my most impressive or significant recoveries for patients have been with some of the biologics I do. I’ve had people who were almost wheelchairbound from their arthritis who got up and took dance lessons and got active again. I had this woman from New York who had been in a walking boot for her Achilles tendon for more than a year who went back to running and jogging after doing a cellular treatment. n EMORY SPORTS MEDICINE CENTER 1968 Hawks Ln. Brookhaven 30329 404.778.3350 emoryhealthcare.org/centersprograms/sports-medicine-center
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September 2019 | Simply Buckhead
ON S TAG E
| ART
| LITERARY
SIMPLY ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
ART
Picture This P62
The free exhibits at the Atlanta Photography Group’s gallery space in Buckhead rotate about every five weeks.
“We’ve had photos entered [in our competitions] that were taken on smartphones. But they still have to have a vision and a viewpoint.” —Judith Pishnery September 2019 | Simply Buckhead
59
O N S TAGE
LIFE IS RICH B
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A comedian’s podcast pursues happiness with money STORY:
Michael Jacobs
Photos: Mike Carano
eing one of Facebook’s first 250 employees seemingly resolved Paul Ollinger’s lifelong stress over money. But after he left his job as the social network’s vice president of West Coast sales after four years to pursue stand-up comedy in 2011, Ollinger confronted a disconcerting reality: “Money brings different problems into your life.” Those problems and the mistakes he made when he had some cash, starting with leaving Facebook without a plan, led the Brookhaven resident to launch the weekly Crazy Money podcast in February. The show ponders the same financial worries as Ollinger’s pending second book (his first was You Should Totally Get an MBA), including the false allure of early retirement. He says, “Human beings need struggle to feel valued.” He was 50,000 words into the new book, which he’s shopping to publishers, when he realized that, amid countless podcasts about how to make or save money, no one was talking about how to be happy with money or what people should want from money. Besides, he says about podcasting, “Everybody else was doing it.” Ollinger’s one-on-one interviews take a relaxed, conversational approach to financial concerns big and small. The occasional laughs come organically, as when comedian Adam Carolla recounts the lack of celebrity lifestyles when he was growing up in North Hollywood or when Carolla’s former Loveline co-host, addiction expert Dr. Drew Pinsky, confesses his horror at the cost of hotel breakfasts. Pinsky and Carolla are friends of Ollinger’s from his time in Los Angeles, where he launched his comedy career, but he says an amazing number of strangers say yes to the podcast when he emails them and explains what he hopes to accomplish. His guests have ranged from Brookings Institution economist Richard Reeves to Collective Soul frontman Ed Roland. He also interviewed his 92-year-old father, William, who shocked him and his siblings by claiming never to have been stressed by money. Ollinger brings a curiosity to each
Paul Ollinger brings deep curiosity and observations about the absurdities of life to both his stand-up and his new podcast.
conversation that’s informed by research, including reading and sometimes rereading his guests’ books. “Everybody’s got a different story and comes at the topic of money in a different way. Listening to all these different perspectives has helped me understand what I want from it a bit more,” says Ollinger, adding that traps such as overspending and keeping up with the Joneses seem universal. “Those kinds of things are in our control if we’re conscious of
September 2019 | Simply Buckhead
what we want to accomplish.” Producing a one-hour podcast takes much more time than Ollinger anticipated, but his commitment to do 100 episodes before assessing the success of Crazy Money doesn’t mean he’s cutting back on his comedy career. The podcast is just a way to reach more people. “I love comedy. I don’t want to stop doing it,” he says. His home club is the Laughing Skull Lounge in Midtown, “a great 80-seat room that punches way above its
weight,” he says. Ollinger plays a lot of comedy festivals and appears in clubs across the country. One of his favorites is New York’s West Side Comedy Club, where in December he recorded his first comedy album, Alive on the Upper West Side, which covered topics from data privacy to iPad protection around preschoolers. “I’m probably seven or eight years into it, depending on how you count it,” Ollinger says of his comedy career, “and I feel like I’m just at the point where I’m really starting to say things that matter.” n To learn more about the Crazy Money podcast and Paul Ollinger’s upcoming stand-up dates, visit paulollinger.com.
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September 2019 | Simply Buckhead 
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ART
PICTURE
THIS
STORY:
H.M. Cauley
Long before camera phones, a local group was promoting the joys of photography
T
hanks to smartphones, just about everyone has a camera in their purse or their pocket these days. But it doesn’t come with details on how to produce a quality photograph. Luckily, there’s a group for that. The roughly 400 members of the Atlanta Photography Group are dedicated to supporting good photography at all stages and phases, whether it’s from those who are just learning how to point and shoot or for others simply interested in collecting great images. “Since 1987, we’ve been here to promote fine art photography,” says Judith Pishnery, a longtime member who took over as executive director a year ago after working for four years as the director of photography at Gwinnett Technical College. “Our
62
premise all along has been to give photographic artists opportunities, including development opportunities so they can develop their creativity, concepts and careers.” The group, based on Bennett Street in Buckhead, rotates free exhibitions in its gallery space about every five weeks, and the photos on display are usually the work of members whose skills run the gamut from beginner to seasoned pro. Last year, the group starting hosting workshops for beginning and intermediate photographers that touch on topics beyond handling a lens; rather, the focus has been on creative development, such as putting together a portfolio, creating a personal project or writing an artist’s statement. A few months ago, the group sponsored its first exhibit of photos
September 2019 | Simply Buckhead
by students enrolled in visual art or photography classes at 16 high schools around the metro area. Members also sponsor a similar competition for college students from around the state. But not all members are creators. “Some people are collectors or educators,” says Pishnery, “but we’re all interested in fine art photography, which for me means photographs created from a personal point of view. Whether it’s a subject of interest or a concept, it’s about photographing for the sake of beauty or to make a statement, rather than being on an assignment to photograph something for someone else.” The photographic landscape has changed drastically since the group’s inception 32 years ago, and Pishnery acknowledges that technology has
engendered much of the shift. “It’s true that people can take up photography a lot easier than they could in the past,” she says. “The entry level is easier; all you need is a camera and a computer. A lot more people are interested in photography and can produce quality images without the hardship of, say, having to have a darkroom. We’ve had photos entered [in our competitions] that were taken on smartphones. But they still have to have a vision and a viewpoint, and be well done.” n
Peruse the Atlanta Photography Group’s latest works at its gallery at 75 Bennett St. N.W., Atlanta 30309. Memberships start at $25. For more information, call 404.605.0605 or visit atlantaphotographygroup.org.
September 2019 | Simply Buckhead 
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Keiko Guest
L I T E R ARY
LOVE IS THE KEY A Sandy Springs author puts a new spin on “LOL” STORY:
I
H.M. Cauley
n texting lingo, “LOL” means “laughing out loud,” though some have mistakenly interpreted those letters as “love you lots.” Sandy Springs author Robyn Spizman now offers another option with the title of her latest book, Loving Out Loud: The Power of a Kind Word. The prolific writer, who has penned books on topics ranging from buying the perfect gift to tips for working from home, hasn’t kept a strict count, but she’s pretty sure this is her 75th and best work to date.
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“I grew up in a loving out loud world,” says Spizman. “So this book is a celebration of how I was raised and what I believe is wonderful and meaningful in life.” The idea came together when Spizman gave her mother’s eulogy three years ago. “I said, ‘If Phyllis Freedman loved you, you were loved out loud,’” she says. “I realized I personally need to be loved out loud, and not with insincere compliments or false praise. I had to study why I’m so motivated and inspired by words. When you look into the research, you realize we need to hear positive statements and powerful words that tell us our lives matter.”
September 2019 | Simply Buckhead
About a year ago, Spizman began recording her own experiences and others’ personal stories, and delving into expert opinions on building better relationships. “I started interviewing everyone about a time in their lives when they felt loved. Not just romantic love, but the kind of love friends share, or a relative or family member shares, or with something someone did that made time stand still. And the stories were profound.” Those stories are sprinkled throughout the book, in chapters that cover ways to put loving out loud into practical action, whether it’s leaving a sticky note that says “Good
morning, beautiful” for a spouse (something her husband, Ed, does regularly), baking a strudel, modeling positive reinforcement for kids or even writing a poignant eulogy. “It’s an act of kindness to tell a boss that their employee is awesome or to stop long enough to make eye contact with someone and call them by name,” says Spizman. “It’s about slowing down and thinking of ways to connect with people.” The book is also a thank you to the people whom Spizman, 66, says have touched her in many ways, from colleagues who support her appearances on local TV to volunteers at various philanthropic projects and her own six grandchildren. “My mother insisted that when she died we put on her headstone the words, ‘She tried.’ I told her she succeeded by trying to find ways to better other people’s lives,” says Spizman. “When people are kind and thoughtful to you, you pass it on, and you start living a very full life. I’m enjoying life more now than ever. I think every day, Am I a good mother, wife, friend? Did I stop to do something that would make someone feel appreciated? Sometimes it’s so simple.” n
Robyn Spizman will be the keynote speaker at the Sandy Springs Society’s fall luncheon on Sept. 24. For information about her other appearances and to find copies of Loving Out Loud, visit robynspizman.com.
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ALEX TEIH – COUTURE EVENING WEAR DESIGNER Trunk Show – Sept. 26 and 27 MARISA BARATELLI – LUXURIOUS THAI SILK DESIGNS Trunk Show – Oct 10 and 11
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C OVE R ST ORY
GET YOUR MOTOR RUNNING WITH OUR FIRST-EVER CARS ISSUE
When it comes to driving, there are people who view it as a necessary evil, and then there are people who love the thrill of the open road and can’t wait to get behind the wheel. Some folks want a practical, purposeful vehicle, while others want something more exotic and exciting, like the sleek 1934 Packard Phaeton shown here. Our first-ever cars issue has something for you no matter which category you fall into. So buckle up and burn rubber through the following pages!
PHOTO: Sara
Hanna
PHOTO ASSISTANT: Scott Asano STYLIST: Sara Mixon WARDROBE: Ganni animal print maxi
dress ($440), courtesy of Tootsies. MODEL: Nina Darr, MP Management MAKEUP: Sarai Mateo, The Standard HAIR: Vincent Tobias, The Standard VINTAGE CAR: Courtesy of Millard Choate Shot on location at 430 Argonne Drive N.W., Atlanta 30305, currently available through James Simons at Harry Norman Realtors
C OV E R S T ORY
BENTLEY BENTAYGA V8
CAR TALK
The Humble Brag: Bentley Bentayga V8 Let’s face it: If you’re driving a Bentley, chances are you’ve done well for yourself. But Bentley owners don’t typically flaunt their good fortune with flashy accessories. One could buy Bentley sunglasses, wear a Bentley shirt or spray on Bentley cologne, but it’s all subtle. There is a logo, but you have to look to find it, which is the whole point. “Bentley owners want you to know they drive a Bentley, but they don’t really want to tell you they do,” says Sidney Barron, the general manager of Bentley Atlanta, and somehow that makes sense. A case in point is the Bentley Bentayga V8, a model of performance and precision that, as it passes you on Ga. 400 could look like any other SUV, but au contraire. The Bentayga exudes class and top-of-the-line luxury. Totally handmade, it provides a smooth ride but doesn’t isolate you from the outside elements. It allows you to command the road and provides all of the safety features, such as active braking, to make it perfect for driving with the kiddos in tow. The Bentayga doesn’t impose its driving preference. Again, it’s all about you. With the Drive Dynamics Mode selections, you can operate it according to the road conditions or your mood. The All Terrain Specifications add four responsive off-road settings: sand, snow and grass, dirt and gravel, and mud and trail. So there’s never a driving misstep. This is not a prissy car, and it’s ready and more than able to tackle dirt roads or tow your boat to Lake Lanier. In fact, it has 20 features designed to make it an ideal outdoor
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WE TEST DRIVE EIGHT VEHICLES FOR EVERYONE FROM SOCCER MOMS TO SPEED DEMONS A car rarely is about just getting you from point A to point B. Rather, a car is a calling card of sorts, a conveyance of your station in life, whether it screams “midlife crisis” or “I’ve got three kids and two dogs.” It’s a way to impress clients or congratulate yourself on a job well done. It can be practical or playful. To help you find the perfect vehicle for you and your lifestyle, we took eight cars out on the roads of Buckhead to see how they performed. vehicle, including tailored storage areas for skiing, fishing, diving and other active pursuits. Perhaps the best reason the Bentley Bentayga V8 is a humble brag is that, as in all Bentleys, you can have a custom design put on the dashboard. So if you want to display your company’s logo, family crest or some other image that’s important to you, Bentley will create it and incorporate it into the car’s design.
options, but if you want a truck that can easily go from Buckhead to the backcountry, or simply to MercedesBenz Stadium for the ultimate tailgate party, then the Ridgeline is for you.
MSRP: $230,000 Get Yours At: Bentley Atlanta 10995 Westside Pkwy. Alpharetta 30009 888.212.6694 bentleyatlanta.com
The Top Choice for Tailgating: Honda Ridgeline The Honda Ridgeline is a fun truck to drive. If you’re looking for a brute of a machine that’s overloaded with testosterone, there might be better
September 2019 | Simply Buckhead
HONDA RIDGELINE
STORY:
Mary Welch
It’s important to note that the Ridgeline is a front-wheel-drive truck instead of rear-wheel like its competitors and that it offers all-wheel instead of four-wheel drive. Plus, the Ridgeline is the only unibody pickup in the industry. Why does that matter? Because it makes it stronger and more rigid, nimble and versatile. It’s a midsize truck, but because of the way it’s built, it’s cavernous inside, especially compared to other trucks on the road. And going around curves on Powers
Ferry is no problem; you don’t feel like you have to slow down or that it’s going to tip over. It feels like a car, drives like a car and can still go off-road or up country lanes. It’s surprisingly easy to maneuver and passed the toughest test of all—parking. You can enter a normal parking spot and back out with ease, even at the busy lot at Trader Joe’s. Back to tailgating. It seats five comfortably, has built-in LATCH anchors for child seats and has a giant lockable trunk in the bed that’s great for locking your stuff away. It has a watertight storage area that’s perfect for loading up on ice, adult beverages and cold foods. When the party’s over, just pull the plug, and the water drains out the bottom. A power-sliding rear window allows drinks and eats to be easily passed from the truck bed to the cabin. Standard features include a moonroof, tri-zone automatic climate control, satellite radio, Apple CarPlay and a seven-speaker audio system (including truck-bed audio). The seats are comfy, and the tailgate opens two ways for loading and getting in. There’s much to love about the Honda Ridgeline. Now, where’s the party? MSRP: $29,990 Get Yours At: Shottenkirk Honda 539 E. Main St. Cartersville 30121 678.535.3644 hondaofcartersville.com
MERCEDES-AMG GT ROADSTER
The Car That Says You’ve Made It: Mercedes-AMG GT Roadster
GMC SIERRA 3500HD
The Big Ole Truck: GMC Sierra 3500HD Today’s trucks can be found in car pools as well as out in the fields hauling large loads. Some can do both with finesse, but sometimes you need a good old-fashioned muscular, powerful truck that makes no pretense at being anything else. Meet the GMC Sierra 3500HD. It has a maximum horsepower of 445, can tow up to 23,100 pounds and can handle a payload of up to 6,112 pounds. It is meant to work, and, boy, does it deliver, especially when you take into consideration it boasts the world’s first six-function tailgate. By raising and lowering the two tailgate panels, you can step into or load the truck bed in a multitude of ways. Surprisingly, the GMC Sierra delivers an agile ride that takes turns with ease and can bob and weave in traffic with the best of them. It reminds you of an offensive tackle who can plow through the defensive line and rush the quarterback. Adding to the experience is a
comfortable interior that allows for plenty of room even in the back. Headroom, legroom and shoulder room are all beyond generous, and the optional power-adjustable pedals, tilt and telescoping steering wheel and highly adjustable driver’s seat mean that even though the truck is big, you don’t have to be in order to drive it. Admittedly, all but a Shaq-size man will have to climb up to get into the Sierra, but that’s pretty standard for trucks its size. The Sierra is a great vehicle whose talents, frankly, will be underused around Buckhead unless you’re renovating your house, hauling bales of pine straw, moving furniture or doing other heavy lifting. But when its talents are being fully utilized, it’s a maestro of form, function and tenacity. MSRP: $36,800 Get Yours At: Jim Ellis Buick GMC 5862 Peachtree Blvd. Atlanta 30341 678.381.1336 jimellisbpg.net
Mercedes’ AMG GT Roadster is the perfect midlife crisis car—and we mean that in a good way. The sexy two-seat sports car says you’ve made it and are not going into middle age quietly. Yet, it’s not going to invoke snickers from your friends at the golf club. The fun starts the second you take the wheel and look out over the long, curvaceous hood and feel the sportiness, attitude and power. Then, as you start the car and the handcrafted V8 engine lets out a roar, you’ll immediately know the Roadster was worth living half a century for. Back the car out of the driveway slowly, because there’ll be plenty of time for this sportster to show its power and speed. Feel the road and know that while you’re in control, it’s a partnership with a vehicle that has an ample reserve of power and was born to perform and exceed expectations—just like you. With its 469-horsepower engine, this beauty can go from zero to 60 mph in 3.9 seconds, with a top speed of 196 mph. So find some roads where you can let the AMG show you why it’s at the top of its game. The car clings to the pavement and hugs the curves thanks to its AMG sport suspension and rear-axle, limited-slip differential. Configurable drive modes let you dial in the throttle, shifting, chassis and exhaust to find a custom driving experience. This is a muscle car with a delicate, stylish body. Just let it rip and feel the intersection of brains, power, style and technology, and then try to wipe the smile off your face. MSRP: $127,900 Get Yours At: Mercedes-Benz of Buckhead 2799 Piedmont Rd. N.E. Atlanta 30305 800.713.5938 mercedesofbuckhead.com
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C OV E R S T ORY
LAND ROVER DISCOVERY
The Soccer Mom With Style: Land Rover Discovery Driving the streets of Buckhead in a Land Rover Discovery gives one a sense of superiority and being in control. The seat is set high, offering a panoramic view. You feel as if you’re the queen looking out over your kingdom. And that’s a good thing, because with the third-row seating upgrade, you could potentially have six kids in the car and a teenager up front. If ever there was a need to feel in control, this is it. The Discovery can accommodate seven adults comfortably as well, even in the third row, which few cars can claim. In addition to humans, the Discovery is the perfect vehicle to load up with dogs, groceries and sports equipment. Depending on how the seats are configured, the Discovery offers up to 43.5 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row seats and 88.3 cubic feet when they’re folded down. Even better, using the optional Intelligent Seat Fold feature, you can raise and lower the second- and third-row seats remotely via your smartphone. Everything about the Discovery screams “soccer mom,” but you also feel like you’re treating yourself, given the premium Windsor leather and stylish wood veneers and features such as the plentiful USB charging points. In terms of safety, Discovery is at the top of the list and features two complete sets of LATCH connections
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for securing child car seats on the second and third rows. The entertainment package is top-notch, and all of the controls are easy to access on the 10-inch screen while driving. It has lots of zoom and holds its own on the road even in the heart of Buckhead. MSRP: $52,900 Get Yours At: Hennessy Land Rover Buckhead 3040 Piedmont Rd. N.E. Atlanta 30305 833.632.1051 landroverbuckhead.net
The Green Machine: Nissan LEAF S Plus
than ever. In the LEAF S Plus, for instance, you can get from Buckhead to Gatlinburg, Tennessee, with energy to spare. That increased range, coupled with an overall comfortable ride, has resulted in the LEAF winning several “Best Of” competitions, including being named best green car at the Atlanta International Auto Show in March. The LEAF isn’t a big car in comparison to the Tesla or Jaguar’s I-Pace, but it doesn’t feel small thanks to the rounded design and big windows. It’s light and airy, and because the battery is underneath the cabin, passengers sit high, and there’s ample room for all.
There are a number of excellent allelectric cars—the Tesla, Chevy Bolt, Kia Soul EV, Volkswagen e-Golf and Hyundai Ioniq EV, to name a few—but we went with the Nissan LEAF for a couple of reasons. First, it’s a great car with terrific handling. Next, Nissan should get two gold stars for increasing the battery and subsequent driving range. Finally, it’s worth noting that Atlanta is the NISSAN LEAF’s biggest market LEAF S PLUS in the country outside of California. The most important news about the LEAF is its increased range (now up to 226 miles before needing a charge), and that the charging process is faster and easier
September 2019 | Simply Buckhead
The LEAF S Plus brings 214 horsepower to the table, and every time you put the pedal to the metal, you get an instant acceleration that’s perfect for maneuvering around town. The floor-mounted battery pack creates a low center of gravity that allows the car to hug the road and make quick turns with minimal body roll. And, if you’re going up Ga. 400, you’ll be able to get up to 60 mph in 3.2 seconds. And have a great time in the process. MSRP: $36,550 (even less with tax credits!) Get Yours At: Nalley Nissan of Atlanta 2551 The Nalley Way Atlanta 30360 855.416.9828 nalleynissanofatlanta.com
The Corporate But Cool: Lexus LS 500 Choosing the right corporate car can be tricky. Too much flash and clients may worry they’re being overcharged to support your need for bling, while too little pizazz may bring up concerns of fiscal insecurity and immaturity (what, no satellite radio?). Don’t worry. The Lexus LS 500 has you covered. This long, lean sedan has enough of a sports car vibe to show that you’re hip, in control, take risks and appreciate success. And, yes, it will get front-row parking attention at Bone’s. Just look
MAZDA MIATA MX-5 LEGACY
The Wind in Your Hair: Mazda Miata MX-5 Legacy
at the imposing grill and cool LED headlights shaped like arrows. The Lexus LS 500 is a high-performance marvel—just like your business. Of course, a true company car needs to be comfortable and treat its passengers like treasured associates. And again, the Lexus LS delivers. Those sitting in the back won’t feel inferior thanks to the generous legroom, rear-seat butterfly headrests and seven massage settings. There’s even an option for reclining seats and extended ottoman. The pockets behind the front seats are ample enough to fit a laptop, another nice bonus. The 28-way power front seats offer a bit of pampering with a shiatsutype massage function that offers the Zen needed when dealing with difficult clients. An available climate concierge monitors the temperature of four different zones and adjusts everything, including the rear ducts,
from the ventilation system. Not only will your clients feel at ease in the car, they’ll also enjoy the trip. The Lexus LS 500 is built on the LC coupe platform, boasts Lexus’ first twin-turbocharged engine, has a suspension system that allows you to stiffen or soften the ride, and takes the curves like a race car. Like you, its capabilities are far ahead of the competition. MSRP: $74,450 Get Yours At: Hennessy Lexus 5955 Peachtree Industrial Blvd. Atlanta 30341 770.457.6800 lexusatlanta.com
The Mazda Miata MX-5 Legacy is the next generation of a car that 30 years ago brought the convertible back front and center and into the garages of millions of Americans. It’s simple: The Miata gives you all the fun of an expensive sports car without the price tag. It’s sleek, exciting to drive and has the power and looks to captivate the hearts of women and men alike. With the 2019 models, the MX-5 received a significant boost of horsepower—from 155 to 181. It’s more powerful than ever now, but its nimble and responsive handling is up to the challenge. The inside is as wonderful as the outside. Its two seats are comfortable and snug but not cramped. There are some bells
and whistles, but basically the Miata understands its role as a pure, solid, enjoyable sports car that’s hard to beat price-wise. Taking the Miata out on the road is an exercise in sportier driving. If you’re in stop-and-go traffic (this is Buckhead, after all), the car easily changes lanes and offers a smooth transition from brake to gas pedal. Take it out on the highway and you’ll feel its power and purpose, especially with the top down and the breeze blowing in your hair. It’s great on the straightaways and confident around the curves, and features quick steering to help avoid things in the middle of the road. And if you do hit a pothole, you won’t feel as if you’re in a plane that’s hit unexpected turbulence. Some automobiles deserve iconic status, and the Mazda Miata is approaching this honor. It’s a sports car that stays true to its origins, has improved over time and, without costing an arm and a leg, provides a sporty convertible hat that will make you volunteer to go to Whole Foods every time. n MSRP: $27,080 Get Yours At: Jim Ellis Mazda 5855 Peachtree Industrial Blvd. Atlanta 30341 888.814.7086 jimellismazdaatlanta.com
LEXUS LS 500
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C OV E R S T ORY
NIKO KARATASSOS President of Buckhead Life Restaurant Group
Photos: Niko Karatassos: Sara Hanna; Corvette Stingray: dave_7, Lethbridge, Canada, via Wikimedia Commons
When he was 6 years old, Karatassos fell in love with the featured car in Corvette Summer, a 1978 movie starring Mark Hamill. “The movie is about a California teenager who heads to Las Vegas to track down his beloved 1973 Corvette Stingray,” says Karatassos. “The candy-apple-red Stingray with gold flames was far from the Karatassos family car at the time, a VW Bug.” Four decades later, Karatassos, now the father of two sons, dreams of what will be the safest car when his teenager begins driving in a couple of years.
DREAM MACHINES THE FANTASY CARS OF SIX NOTABLE ATLANTANS
STORY:
Michael Jacobs
Dream cars are as diverse as the people plugging along on Peachtree Road, so we asked several Atlanta-area celebrities familiar with Buckhead driving what wheels get their motors running.
Courtesy of Aston Martin
Ninety-two-year-old former Atlanta mayor Sam Massell has followed a long and winding road to get to his dream car: a red Volkswagen Karmann Ghia, which was produced from 1955 to 1974. “When I enrolled at the University of Georgia in 1944, I was the proud owner of my sister’s hand-me-down Packard convertible,” he says. “I was into technical advances and attached every accessory available, including a set of trucking chrome-plated air horns on the front fenders. As time marched on, I started trading up, but my dream was a red Karmann Ghia with an added sunroof that I was told was impossible, a chrome luggage rack on the back and more. Its main benefit, in addition to budget operating costs, was its small size that created its own parking space, even on the crowded avenues of Buckhead.”
Sara Hanna
SAM MASSELL President of the Buckhead Coalition
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September 2019 | Simply Buckhead
Courtesy of Atlanta Braves
The Braves’ 22-year-old rookie standout, who pitched a perfect inning at this year’s All-Star Game in Cleveland, says his current dream car is the new Aston Martin DBS Superleggera, whose V12 engine supplies 715 horsepower. But his all-time favorite is Eleanor, the peppergray Shelby Mustang GT500 featured in the film Gone in 60 Seconds.
Courtesy of Volkswagen of America Inc.
MIKE SOROKA Atlanta Braves pitcher
Mary Grace Heath
BRIAN KEMP Governor of Georgia Kemp says his dream car is one he’s already owned for almost two decades: a green 2001 Chevrolet Suburban. “The ‘Green Machine’ is four-wheel drive, clocks in at more than 500,000 miles and knows all 159 counties in Georgia,” says Kemp. “It still makes its way around the Kemp family farm in Athens, and it’s a regular fixture on Georgia Highway 72.”
DRIVE ON
VEHICLE SUBSCRIPTION PROGRAMS LET YOU GET BEHIND THE WHEEL OF A DIFFERENT CAR EACH DAY
Jessica Dauler
too good to be true. I have an entire garage of Porsches at my disposal for one all-inclusive fee. I can drive the perfect Porsche for every occasion.” Mercedes-Benz, which, like Porsche, is headquartered in Atlanta, offers a similar ondemand service, the MercedesBenz Collection, for a one-time activation fee of $495. The monthly tier options start at $1,095 for the Signature plan, which includes models such as the C-Class sedans, coupes and convertibles, as well as the GLC 300 SUV and the SLC 300 Roadster. The Reserve plan, at $1,595 a month, offers midsize E-Class sedans, wagons, coupes and convertibles, as well as the GLE 350 SUV. The final tier, the Premier program, is $2,995 per month and includes Mercedes’ flagship SL Roadster, S-Class sedan and G-Class 550 SUV. Both programs include unlimited car swaps, mileage, insurance, maintenance, cleaning and delivery fees. A vehicle to fit your every mood and need? Now that’s something worth braving Atlanta traffic for. n
DEMAND
NICKI COLLEN Atlanta Dream coach Collen, the 2018 WNBA Coach of the Year, inherited a love of cars from her dad and says her dream car is the Porsche 918 Spyder, only 918 of which were produced between 2013 and 2014. “I think it’s the lines and the speed,” she says. “When I was young, I always wanted a 911 Carrera, but once I saw the 918 Spyder, that was it. My son, who’s 14, is really into cars, and so he’s showing me cars all the time. He’s like ‘Mom, you should say the McLaren 720S because that’s my dream car,’ and I’m like, ‘No, no, no, it’s the Porsche.’” Photos: Niki Collen: Scott Cunningham/NBAE via Getty Images; Porsche Spyder: Mario Roberto Durán Ortiz via Wikimedia Commons
STORY:
A
JAN SMITH Music producer, Jan Smith Studios Grammy-nominated producer and vocal coach Jan Smith says she admires the Pininfarina Sergio, a 2013 Italian concept car, and the Maybach Exelero, a one-off German sports car rolled out in 2005. “I’m more of an SUV kind of girl, though,” she says, “and those don’t come in a Bugatti! I’m on the road a lot, so safety and comfort are huge for me, as well as a stellar sound system for obvious reasons.” n
sk anyone with a smartphone and chances are they subscribe to something: movies, podcasts or food delivery. These days, even luxury cars are available on demand. Auto subscription programs offer a new alternative to leasing or buying a vehicle. For a flat monthly fee, members gain access to a fleet of luxury cars that can be requested directly from a mobile app and delivered to their homes or offices. Porsche Passport, for example, offers unlimited Porsche vehicles and is currently only available in Atlanta. Pricing starts at $2,000 per month for the Launch tier, which includes S models of the 718 Cayman, 718 Boxster, Macan and Cayenne. The Accelerate program, at $3,000 per month, offers access to the Launch fleet plus the base and S models for the 911 Carrera, 911 Carrera Cabriolet, Panamera, Macan GTS and Cayenne GTS. Both options charge an initial activation fee of $500, but neither require a long-term commitment. Atlanta resident Steve Barnes, who’s used the service since its inception two years ago, says, “It’s
Mercedes-Benz Collection collection.mbusa.com/atlanta Porsche Passport porschepassport.com
September 2019 | Simply Buckhead
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Drew Phillips
Look but don’t touch: A one-of-a-kind Bugatti Aerolithe valued at $5 million will be on display.
Puttin’ On The Glitz
STORY:
Kevin C. Madigan
David Weaver Photography
ATLANTA’S ANNUAL CONCOURS D’ELEGANCE AUTO SHOW KICKS INTO HIGH GEAR
This 1934 Packard Super 8 Dual Cowl Sport Phaeton claimed “Best in Show” honors among the American cars at last year’s event.
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September 2019 | Simply Buckhead
David Weaver Photography
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one-of-a-kind 1935 Bugatti Aerolithe, currently insured for $5 million, is just one of the many unique cars set to be featured at the Atlanta Concours d’Elegance auto show during the weekend of Oct. 19-20. Previously held at Château Élan, the show will take place this year at the former Fort McPherson military base that’s now home to the Tyler Perry Studios just south of downtown. “It’s absolutely gorgeous and secure and has all of the things we wanted,” says Concours co-founder Bill Wallet of the new intown venue. Occupying an 11-acre field once used by soldiers for parades and surrounded by turn-of-the-century
David Weaver Photography
Attendees are encouraged to dress in period garb inspired by the vintage cars.
buildings, the fourth edition of the Concours will host close to 200 different cars each day. Saturday will showcase vehicles produced between 1900 and 1970. “They’re going to be what we call ‘driver-level’ cars,” says Wallet. “These are the sort of cars that most collectors have in their garages.” On Sunday, “concours condition” cars will be on display. These are, by definition, as good or better now than on the day they were built and are judged on a point system. “You start off at 100 points,” says Wallet, “and you lose points for anything that’s not authentic or not exactly as it was intended to be.” The featured marque (make of car) will be Bentley, which is celebrating its 100th anniversary this year. Also on hand will be several Thomas Flyers,
Rachel Shurler
The Concours is a celebration of our lifelong love affair with the automobile, whether it’s from 1900 or 1970.
famous as the winning automobile of the New York to Paris Race in 1908. “The cars are coming from all over the country, and we work all year at recruiting them,” says Wallet. “We’re looking for very special cars. One of the things we try to do for the show as a design criterion is ensure that 50% to 60% of the cars on our field are pre-World War II.” The legendary Duesenberg will appear in that category, including a 1935 model first owned by renowned tap dancer Bill “Bojangles” Robinson. “We have another Duesenberg custom designed for Mae West,” says Wallet. “We have Sammy Davis Jr.’s RollsRoyce complete with his gold-plated golf clubs. One of Muhammad Ali’s Rolls-Royces will be there as well, and I think we have Colin Powell’s Mercedes.” Then there’s the burgundy red Ferrari Lusso owned by Sam Cooke and acquired by Dennis Wilson of The Beach Boys after Cooke’s death. A car enthusiast since his youth, Wallet is the proud possessor of a 1945 Lincoln Continental Cabriolet
At the Concours, hundreds of different vehicles are on view each day.
and uses as his daily driver a 2010 Jaguar XF Supercharged. But he and his Concours d’Elegance partner Harry Krix do more than just promote classic cars. They also support, with proceeds from their events, organizations such as the Shepherd Center, 100 Black Men and McPherson College’s Automotive Restoration program. In addition to the jaw-dropping automobiles, the October Concours weekend will feature a beer and wine garden, a Ride and Drive Experience, a market for automotive artists, storytelling and a Lifestyle Merchants Market hosted by Simply Buckhead. Attendees are encouraged to show off their period fashions. “The overriding issue is getting people to understand what a concours is and what makes it different from your standard parking lot car show,” says Wallet. “We’ll have spectacular cars that people tend to have never seen.” n
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There are many, but only one is truly Authentic‌
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22 Locations in Atlanta brazilianwax.com
RE V I E W | DRI N K S | F O ODI E J OU RNA L | TA S T E M A K E R | RE S TAU R A N T S
SIMPLY DELICIOUS
Shredded chicken, black beans, guac and chunky tomato salsa in white-hot queso gringo make the queso con todo a Pure Taqueria favorite.
RESTAURANT REVIEW
Pure Pleasure P78
Photo: Sara Hanna
Driving along the arboreous stretch of Johnson Ferry Road, one catches sight of a white rooftop bar in the distance, like an oasis. Welcome to Pure Taqueria. September 2019 | Simply Buckhead
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REVIEW
Pure Taqueria has tacos and homemade salsas for every palate and dietary restriction.
PURE PLEASURE There’s something to taco ’bout at Brookhaven’s Pure Taqueria STORY:
Rebecca Cha PHOTOS: Sara Hanna
A With its sizzling veggies, avocado and charred tomatillo salsa, the cazuela bowl is as visually stunning as it is tasty.
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s the hot summer sun bled through the blinds yet another day, I longed for a proper vacation from the unrelenting heat, hustle and traffic of my neighborhood. Who would’ve guessed I’d find a spot of relief by simply crossing over Peachtree Dunwoody from Buckhead into Brookhaven? Driving along the arboreous stretch of Johnson Ferry Road, one catches sight of a white rooftop bar in the distance, like an oasis. Welcome to Pure Taqueria. The centerpiece
September 2019 | Simply Buckhead
of the Brookleigh Marketplace, Brookhaven’s outpost conjures a most welcoming vibe. With its industrial brick and lighting, clean lines and floor-to-ceiling windows, it feels like an old, undiscovered Tribeca loft. No wonder it’s a multigenerational mecca, where grandfolks, singles, parents and tweens mingle as one big, happy community. Let’s go back to that breezy, beachy rooftop bar. Arrive at twilight, grab one of the canvascushioned seats (they fill up fast) and cozy up to the well-curated drink menu. While there are plenty of local and Mexican beers and specialty drinks, I recommend the Skinny Margarita, an absolute misnomer if based solely on flavor. (I imagined a tasteless diet soda version of a real margarita, but how wrong I was.) If the pure taste of the Skinny doesn’t take you back to that one special night in Tijuana, the pepino diablo margarita will. Along with freshly pressed cucumber juice, muddled cilantro, lime and a pinch of fresh chile, it has just enough Tanteo jalapeño-infused tequila to keep things interesting. I was strong-armed into ordering the queso con todo, but I’m glad I did. Deconstructed nachos? Sort of. Inverted fondue, more like. Shredded chicken, black beans, guacamole
and chunky tomato salsa are buried treasure waiting to be unearthed from a bowl of queso gringo (white American cheese) with sturdy totopos (thick, gluten-free tortilla chips). If you prefer noshing on the lighter variety of chips (always free), there are dozens of $1.19 dailymade salsas to choose from, each highlighting a different chile or classic blend. The queso blanco quesadillas with juicy, shredded white-meat chicken and gooey cheese wrapped in warm tortillas thrilled the kiddos at the table, while we adults shared the camarones a la parrilla, a menu “specialty” made with butterflied grilled shrimp atop salsa, guacamole and corn cakes. Though a bit of an inelegant mess, each individual component was fresh and well-prepared, but something about warm masa intermingling with increasingly warm salsas and guacamole proved better on paper than plate. One of the best server recommendations was the cazuela bowl. I’m not a big fan of this particular millennial-era trend, but this was a bowl without pretense. Available in vegetarian style or with a choice of protein, the sizzling trio of peppers, onions and zucchini over black beans and piquant rice was flavor combining at its finest. We couldn’t resist also trying the coliflor taco, a meaty, smoky cumin- and turmeric-roasted cauliflower taco loaded with pumpkin-seed pesto
Above: The camarones a la parrilla consists of butterflied grilled shrimp atop salsas, guacamole and corn cakes. Left: Layered with steak, chorizo, sliced ham, peppers and Chihuahua cheese, the torta de carne y chorizo is one very ambitious sandwich.
and smoked cashew salsa (the latter made with dried chile de arbol, chipotle, morita and pequin). For all it promises, you’d think it would be a vegetarian masterpiece, but the sauces exhibited far more complexity and unctuous layered flavors than the main event. We finished off another visit to Pure Taqueria with the torta de carne y chorizo, a meat lover’s pressed sandwich. Chunks of steak and chorizo, sliced ham and avocado, peppers and Chihuahua cheese all piled atop ciabatta; it’s a very ambitious sandwich. Whatever your feelings about messy Mexican, don’t pass up the accompanying hand-cut papas fritas. Tossed with sugar, lime zest, chile de arbol and cotija cheese, they are so crisp, hot and satisfying, you’ll be inspired to burn your bedside copy of Eat This, Not That! Dunk a few in the outstanding chile de arbol aioli and pronounce yourself an on-trend retro sensualist. Café con postre, anyone? I’m not one to
bicker about the use of Nespresso pods in restaurants, and after some exceptional tequilas and tacos, you may be motivated to order a double since Nespresso doesn’t disappoint. Thankfully, the same can be said for the desserts. The pastel de tres leches was so authentic, so porous, milk-heavy and rich with coconut, I almost forgot I was in Georgia. The desserts are billed as “scratch-made at the founder’s local artisan bakery” (Theo’s Brother’s Bakery up in Alpharetta), and next time we will definitely be trying the sweet plantanos fritos or sopapillas y chocolate. But I’ve saved the best for last: The service team is pure cream of the crop. Everyone on the floor had a firm grasp on his or her responsibilities and performed them with Zen-like composure. All told, Pure Taqueria Brookhaven offers more than enough in the way of eats, treats and setting to satisfy even the most discerning diners. n
Above: Head to the breezy rooftop bar and enjoy a pomegranate margarita or one of Pure Taqueria’s other outstanding adult beverages. Left: Still have room for dessert? Order the milk-heavy, coconut-rich pastel de tres leches, supplied fresh from Theo’s Brother’s Bakery. PURE TAQUERIA 3589 Durden Dr., Atlanta 30319 770.452.7873 puretaqueria.com
Pure Taqueria offers more than enough in the way of eats, treats and setting to satisfy even the most discerning diners.
Prices: Appetizers and taco platters: $4.79-$15.99. Classics, sandwiches and specialties: $8.49-$22.99. Desserts: $5.09-$8.49. Recommended dishes: Skinny margarita, pepino diablo margarita, queso con todo, cazuela bowl, camarones a la parrilla, torta de carne y chorizo, pastel de tres leches. Bottom line: A tight operation with a vacation vibe and on-point kitchen gives this Brookhaven Mexican eatery “destination” status. Bonus: There’s an egg-focused brunch on Saturdays and Sundays.
September 2019 | Simply Buckhead
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D R I NKS
DETAILS American Cut 3035 Peachtree Rd. N.E. Atlanta 30305 770.415.9766 americancutsteakhouse.com Gypsy Kitchen 3035 Peachtree Rd. N.E. Atlanta 30305 404.939.9840 gk-atl.com La Grotta Ristorante Italiano 2637 Peachtree Rd. N.E. Atlanta 30305 404.231.1368 lagrottaatlanta.com Local Three Kitchen & Bar 3290 Northside Pkwy. N.W. Atlanta 30327 404.968.2700 localthree.com Storico Fresco Alimentari 3167 Peachtree Rd. N.E. Atlanta 30305 404.500.2181 storicofresco.com
All Hail
the Negroni
Clockwise from far left: Toast the Negroni’s 100th anniversary with creative twists on the classic cocktail from Storico Fresco, Local Three and Gypsy Kitchen.
Celebrating the centennial of the classic cocktail
I
nvented 100 years ago, the Negroni is a perfect example of a three-part cocktail structure: one part spirit, one part sweet and one part bitter. Traditionally, it’s stirred with equal parts Campari, gin and vermouth, but it’s an easy classic for variations. We owe the creation of the ruby-hued drink to Camillo Negroni, a count from Florence, Italy. An aperitivo, an alcoholic beverage consumed pre-meal, is an integral part of a typical Italian’s day, and the count frequented a local establishment called Caffè Cassoni (later called Caffè Giacosa), where, as the story goes, one day he asked bartender Fosco Scarselli for his customary Americano, but this time topped with gin instead of soda water. The barman changed the lemon garnish to an orange slice and, voilà, the Negroni was born. Its popularity spread, and it’s now celebrating its centennial anniversary.
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Storico Fresco Alimentari, the Italian restaurant and specialty shop on Peachtree Road, serves up a tasty version of the decades-old aperitif. As an alternative to Campari, the mixologists there prefer orange-forward Gran Classico Bitter made from 25 herbs and roots. It has a similar taste but has a natural, amber-colored hue and pairs wonderfully with menu items such as the mozzarella- and ricotta-stuffed fried squash blossoms. Gypsy Kitchen’s cuisine draws inspiration from the exotic spices of Spain, Morocco and India, and the cocktail menu follows suit. The Evil Eye is a worldly Negroni knockoff that gets its shocking color from Strega, a liqueur made from ingredients such as saffron and espelette peppers. The drink experts at Local Three Kitchen & Bar put a Dutch spin on the Negroni, which they call the Back in St. Olaf. Made with Boomsma
September 2019 | Simply Buckhead
STORY:
Angela Hansberger
Genever, a gin from the Netherlands, it features lush and floral Carpano Bianco vermouth, and the aperitif duos of Suze from France and Cappelletti from Italy in place of the Campari. It may be soft and subtly sweet, but this is a strong and bitter concoction served on a big rock of ice. The bitterness of a Negroni lends itself to a bit of lengthening. Remember, it’s supposed to be a drink to kick off the evening. At La Grotta Ristorante Italiano, the Niece Negroni is tempered with a topper of sparkling wine and Pellegrino orange soda. Count Negroni’s family eventually opened a distillery in Italy and bottled a premixed version of the cocktail. The product is available in the U.S., although Campari’s and St. Agrestis’ ready-to-drink Negronis are not yet distributed in Atlanta. But the American Cut steakhouse in The Shops Buckhead Atlanta does have one barrel-aged and ready for happy
hour. The equal parts Campari, Bombay gin and Carpano Antica Formula vermouth have time to mingle and swirl in the wooden barrel. Celebrate the cocktail’s centenary by making your own classic Negroni at home (see recipe below). Or create an alternate version using equal parts spirit, bitter and sweet. Exchange gin for bourbon for a Boulevardier, for example. Use Jamaican rum in place of gin and you have a Kingston. n
CLASSIC NEGRONI Serves 1 1 ounce gin 1 ounce sweet vermouth 1 ounce Campari Orange peel for garnish In a rocks glass filled with ice, stir together gin, vermouth and Campari. Garnish with orange peel.
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FOODIE JOURNAL
Culinary News & Notes
BY:
Lia Picard
Legendary Events’ executive chef Diana Watkins likens her role to that of an orchestra conductor.
What’s your favorite aspect of overseeing the food for all of these big-time events?
There are so many elements that have to come together; it’s like being the conductor of an orchestra. After more than 20 years, our clients have come to expect innovative, highquality dishes, so I love the challenge we have in continuing to surpass their expectations, and it really does take a village. Tell us what it was like to be involved with the NFL owner dinner for the Super Bowl earlier this year.
Rise to the Top Catching up with Legendary Events’ new executive chef Diana Watkins
W
hen it comes to preparing meals for Buckhead’s biggest soirees, Legendary Events lives up to its name. The company, which has planned parties for everyone from Jane Fonda to Tyler Perry,
What has been the most exciting part of transitioning into your new role?
recently appointed Diana Watkins as its executive chef, but having been with Legendary Events for nine years already, she was more than ready to tackle her expanded responsibilities.
FOOD NEWS
Wow! It was an honor to be trusted to [oversee the menu for a meal executed by a group of such] talented Atlanta-based chefs. It was about a six-month process from beginning to end, and for our team, it was exciting to be a part of an event that meant so much to the city.
I was promoted to the position, so I already had the full support of our founder and CEO, Tony Conway, and I knew the Legendary Events team really well. This is my ninth year, so I’ve really grown with the company. The most exciting part of each day is
Zinburger’s new catering service will deliver a box of mouthwatering burgers right to your door. one point for every dollar spent and can apply those points to food purchases in its restaurants. They’ll also be randomly selected for exciting experiences such as a trip to Napa or special dinners. sphospitality.com
n Zinburger Wine & Burger Bar, with a location in Lenox Square, recently launched a catering program. Have a tailgating party, office shindig or other event coming up? The team there can feed your crowd a variety of
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burgers and treats sure to satisfy. zinburger.com n Southern Proper Hospitality, the restaurant group that includes The Big Ketch and Gypsy Kitchen, recently launched a new rewards program. Diners who enroll will receive
September 2019 | Simply Buckhead
n Earlier this year, Fifth Group Restaurants (known for South City Kitchen, Ecco and other eateries) raised more than $100,000 for the Atlanta Community Food Bank through its support of the nonprofit’s 35th annual Hunger Walk Run. fifthgroup.com
meeting with my team and working through all the new ideas that help keep our clients excited about working with us over and over again. What can we expect to see from you and Legendary Events going forward?
We’ll continue finding new ways to present classic Southern favorites as well as incorporating more international flavors, especially Asian and Latin dishes, into our menu choices. Also keep an eye on our food presentations; we’ve been having fun with molecular aspects as well as some other modern, edgy ideas I’m excited about. We’ve always done excellent food, but we’re ready to kick it up a notch and take it to the next level. n
SAVED BY THE BELL A SAVORY AFTER-SCHOOL SNACK
School’s back in full swing, and if you’re like a lot of parents, you may be scratching your head trying to come up with fun and healthy after-school treats for your hungry kiddos. We asked Jaime Foster, the founder of Georgia Grinders, which makes premium all-natural nut butters (which are available online at georgiagrinders.com and at the Peachtree Road and other area farmers markets), to share a quick and easy recipe.
BANANA SUSHI Serves 1 2 tablespoons creamy peanut butter 1 tortilla 1 whole banana Spread peanut butter on tortilla. Put banana on top and roll it up. Cut into slices and enjoy.
HAPPY HOUR DAILY 3-7PM PATIO PERFECTION WEEKEND BRUNCH OPEN LATE FESTIVE INTERIOR
GEORGIA chidoandpadres.com 128 E. ANDREWS DR ATL 30305 404 848 9100
September 2019 | Simply Buckhead 
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TA S T E M AKE R
FUN FACT
Brandon Amato
Willy Bitter plays guitar and once wrote a song about burritos that aired on a local radio station.
Putting the “Mmmm” in Mexican Food WILLY’S MEXICANA GRILL FOUNDER WILLY BITTER SPICES UP THE LOCAL RESTAURANT SCENE
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illy Bitter worked on a tugboat in Alaska, built a school in Kenya and studied marine biology in North Carolina. But it wasn’t until the founder of Willy’s Mexicana Grill moved to Aspen, Colorado, and worked at a Mexican restaurant that he found his passion. “So many things we take for granted now, I had never seen until then,” he recalls. “It was the first time I tried cilantro, chipotles, tomatillos, carnitas, mole sauce and on and on. I was a waiter, but I spent a lot of time in the kitchen.” Bitter moved to San Francisco and discovered a fast-casual taqueria in the Mission District that ended up being the inspiration for Willy’s. Three years later, following a move to Atlanta, he opened the first Willy’s, specializing in California-style
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burritos and more, on Roswell Road. It was 1995. Today, there are more than 30 Willy’s locations in Atlanta, Athens and Peachtree City, with more on the way, and Bitter is still an integral part of the Buckhead-based company. We spoke with him to learn more. What surprised you most when you first started Willy’s? How much time I had to spend on areas other than food. Looking back, I think a double major in psychology and accounting should be required for anyone looking to start a business. What’s your current role? Since bringing on our president, JC Garcia, in 2013, I’ve focused on what’s really important to me: the food. I am creative and a perfectionist at heart,
September 2019 | Simply Buckhead
so I love to develop new menu items and continually improve the way we do things. We are really quality-crazed at Willy’s, and my role is to make sure we stay that way. How has the business evolved since you started? One of the most exciting things that’s changed is how much more knowledgeable and open to bolder flavors our guests have become. When we first opened, no one knew what a lot of our ingredients were, so I always leaned toward milder when trying out new offerings. Now people are much more open to spicy, unique and ethnic flavors. What’s the toughest part about being in the restaurant industry? It’s a lot of hard work and long hours. If you don’t have the passion, it can
STORY:
Carly Cooper
be tough. Plus, if you’re going to open a restaurant, you have to make sure you have an edge. There’s a lot of competition out there, and if you’re not doing something better or different than what’s already out there, it’s not worth it. Tell us about your family and hobbies. I have an awesome wife and two young boys. Weekends are busy with soccer games, but I like to get outside and mountain bike or trail run when I get the chance. In the summer, we head out to the lake and go wakeboarding and wakesurfing. n WILLY’S MEXICANA GRILL To find the location of a Willy’s near you, visit willys.com.
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FEATURED RESTAURANTS A sampling of great eats in and around Buckhead BY: Wendell
Brock, Rebecca Cha and Angela Hansberger
PHOTOS: Sara
Hanna
10 DEGREES SOUTH After 15 years on the scene, this Roswell Road establishment is a highly original destination where food and wine from the tip of the Southern Hemisphere are celebrated with flair. Before we could pose the server with a query on the peri-peri, we got the hard sell on South African reds—particularly the Rupert & Rothschild 2009 “Classique.” The big, full-bodied R&R was the perfect match for the luscious, spicy food that followed. We wager that nobody makes bobotie (the South African national dish) like 10 Degrees South. The dish consists of tantalizingly sweet curried ground beef topped with a custardy crust. It’s time to get your head out of the sand and indulge in the kind of stuff our parents enjoyed when “Continental” cuisine was in vogue. Appetizers: $10-$16 Entrées: $21-$38 10degreessouth.com
BHOJANIC After a couple of meals at this North Indian restaurant in Buckhead, we’ve come to admire the flavorful, longsimmered home cooking. The samosa chat was a wonderful smash-up of potato-and-pea samosas topped with tamarind and mint chutneys and yogurt. As for the entrées, we loved the intensely flavored goat curry and wanted
to sop up every drop of the gravy with rice. This second location of Archna Becker’s beloved Decatur restaurant is an appealing minimalist space, and it’s easy to get in and out and have a solid and affordable meal. Tapas and appetizers: $4-$9 Entrées: $12-$18 bhojanic.com
BROOKLYN CAFE This Sandy Springs institution is never without crowds of satisfied diners, and it’s easy to see why. Join lunching locals over sandwiches and fresh salads such as the petite Caesar with peppery cayenne croutons or the mission fig and crumbled blue cheese with greens. The in-house smoked salmon salad is near perfection, as is the Brooklyn-famous Reuben consisting of juicy corned beef piled atop buttery toasted rye. Dinner highlights include the blackened mahi tacos and crab cake salad. Wrap things up with mile-high double chocolate cake or the homemade Key lime pie, each one sliced to feed two or more. And as if the phenomenal grub weren’t enough, it’s all served up by a friendly, whizbang staff, making for a delightful meal you won’t soon forget. Appetizers and salads: $7-$12 Sandwiches and mains: $11-$31 Desserts: $7 brooklyncafe.com
The chicken curry with rice at Co’m Vietnamese Grill is a comforting and dependable bowl.
CO’M VIETNAMESE GRILL In a Buford Highway strip mall on the edge of Brookhaven, Co’m has been for some time now a favorite place for the vibrant, aromatic flavors of the Southeast Asian nation that ownerbrothers Duc and Henry Tran once called home. While Atlanta has pho shops aplenty, the stars here are the rice and noodle dishes, which can be ordered with heavenly grilled meats, chicken or fish. The pièce de résistance, though, is the grilled grape-leaf rolls, stuffed with bits of beef, lamb, salmon, duck or tofu and doused in a pool of sweet-fishy vinaigrette and sprinkled with crushed peanuts and crispy fried scallions. Heaven! Appetizers: $3-$10 Entrées: $7-$18 comgrillrestaurant.com
DAVIO’S NORTHERN ITALIAN STEAKHOUSE
Whatever you order at Brooklyn Cafe will surely hit the spot.
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With its handmade pasta, terrific steaks and foundation of classic Italian dishes, the Atlanta outpost of Massachusettsbased chef-preneur Steve DiFillippo sets a higher-than-usual standard for a mall restaurant. Fine-food lovers flock to Phipps Plaza for Davio’s delicious fried calamari, tagliatelle Bolognese and warm spinach salad like ravenous shoppers on the hunt for Louis Vuitton
bags, Tiffany silver and Dior gowns. And they can do no better than the buttery medallion of impeccably grilled top sirloin, slathered with Gorgonzola and paired with wilted spinach and sea-salt-and-truffle-oil fries. No wonder the Davio’s menu is as tantalizing as the shoe department at Nordstrom. Appetizers and salads: $9-$16 Pastas, entrées and steaks: $18-$48 davios.com/atl
ECLIPSE DI LUNA At the tail end of Miami Circle is one of the most convivial joints in town. Head over for happy hour Monday through Thursday when most drinks and tapas are half price, and there’s live music. Yummy small plates of habanerospiced ahi tuna ceviche, smoky sundried-tomato mac and cheese (made with three different cheeses) and refreshing Granny Smith apple salad are some of our favorites. Still hungry? It’s hard to pass up the succulent balsamic-y spare ribs and flavorful, crunchy calamari. If you’re with family (or a family of friends), consider the exquisite saffron-infused paella, made with authentic Calasparra rice. Tapas: $2.95-$14.95 (most in the $5-$8 range) Large plates (for two or more): $20-$24 eclipsediluna.com
F&B Like its predecessor, the much-loved former Brasserie le Coze, F&B delivers timeless Provençal fare in a classic brasserie atmosphere. The menu is bolstered by comfort dishes portioned with hunger in mind, but it’s also fortified with lighter salads, sandwiches and soups. Classics such as steak frites and skate wing with a brown butter sauce are deeply satisfying in their rustic charm. Mussels come piled high in a white wine and shallot broth, along with crusty French bread for sopping. The drink menu is built on interesting French wines and remarkable cocktails such as the well-balanced, bourbonbased Line of Destiny. Appetizers: $6-$18 Entrées: $11-$42 Desserts: $6-$8 fandbatl.net
Feeling French? Head to F&B for the classic brasserie dish steak frites (steak and fries).
HEARTH PIZZA TAVERN Sandy Springs is lucky to be home to Hearth Pizza Tavern, where worldclass pie is served up in a cozy corner of the Exchange at Hammond. Pizzas such as the Ring of Fire and The Cure would earn three Michelin stars if there were a pizza rating, and other menu items aren’t far behind. If you’re eating carb-free, go for the Tavern chopped salad, piled high with Italian meats and cheeses, or dig in to hot, crispy Brussels sprouts or zesty roasted cauliflower. If those don’t tempt you, then the steaming bowl of PEI mussels or an oozing, medium-rare Angus beef burger will be your best bet. Openers and salads: $6-$12 Burgers and sandwiches: $10-$12 Pizzas: $7-$19 hearthpizzatavern.com
OK CAFÉ Just as we send diners to Bone’s for the definitive steakhouse experience, we suggest OK Café as a classic diner with a strong Southern twang. The offerings here are anchored in time and tradition: Root beer floats and cherry lemonade are called Black Cows and Pink Ladies. Meat-and-twos and veggie plates laden with silken collards and exquisite mac and cheese are meant to be washed down with sweet ice tea and sopped up with a perfect corn muffin. Fat slices of meatloaf encrusted with tomato sauce, roast turkey with cornbread dressing and gravy, chicken pot pie with an adorable little “OK” stamped onto its puffpastry blanket—this stuff draws a crowd. If you don’t want to play the waiting game, you’d better arrive be-
KYMA The name means “wave,” and making waves is exactly what executive chef Pano I. Karatassos has been doing at his family’s stellar Greek seafood restaurant since 2002. From marides (tiny, “French fry”-size white fish) to Greek specimens grilled whole (try the barbounia or bronzino), Kyma excels at delivering the kind of simple, unadorned flavors you’ll encounter on a patio by the Aegean. Order a glass of Greek wine (there are many options) and a few classic meze for sharing (we like the dolmades, spanakopita, cuttlefish stuffed with lamb stew and the feta-zucchini fritters), and your meal will go just swimmingly. Meze: $8-$14 Mains: $26-$46 (whole fish $30 or $36 per pound) buckheadrestaurants.com/kyma
fore 11 a.m. or between the lunch and dinner rush. After a quarter-century, OK Café never goes out of style. Appetizers: $4-$8 Burgers and sandwiches: $4-$13 Mains: $12-$16 okcafe.com
are tasty. The drinking experience is worth celebrating as well, with a large selection of sake, shochu and whisky. We recommend the smoked toro, tender slices of tuna served under a dome of hickory smoke and the bulgogi-like Gangnam-style roll. Dinner: $6-$37 theonesushiplus.com
THE ONE SUSHI + This glam space wedged in the back corner of Brookhaven’s Town Village is a neighborhood hot spot for Japanese small plates. The freshest fish flown in from Japan’s Tsukiji Market will impress the discerning sushi eater, while colorful rolls with clever names please the occasional dabbler. Shareable offerings and inspired snacks of zesty, yellowtail jalapeño shots and crispy fried bang bang rock shrimp are as fun as they
SALTYARD Saltyard offers a menu of small plates with reverence for local farmers and the current growing season. Employing global imagination, it heightens these dishes with international seasonings and flavors to create worldly comfort food. With an ever-changing menu, Saltyard is never the same place twice. Rustic dishes such as crispy duck confit and super-tender grilled octopus are masterful in their simplicity and depth of flavor. Raw and cured items such as the deconstructed salmon pastrami, while lighter, offer an equal flavor punch. This is not the place to skip the dessert course. The same amount of effort goes into the decadent chocolate nemesis with Brandy cream as it does the entrées. Tapas: $5-$16 Large plates: $18-$25 saltyardatlanta.com
Hungry for more? A mix-and-match assortment of sweets at Kyma: baklava with pistachio ice cream, a Greek donut and yogurt with honey and walnuts.
Visit the Simply Buckhead website to read all of our Restaurant Reviews! simplybuckhead.com
September 2019 | Simply Buckhead
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E V E N T S | C H A RI TA B L E | S C E N E
SIMPLY HAPPENING EVENTS BY:
Karon Warren
[ F E AT U R E D E V E N T ]
A GRAPE EXPERIENCE SAMPLE DOZENS OF WINES AT THIS BUDDING ANNUAL EVENT
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n Sept. 28, the Sandy Springs Wine Festival returns for its second year to the lawn of the Heritage Sandy Springs Museum and Park, where those ages 21 and older can indulge their love of good vino. From noon to 5 p.m., ticketholders can enjoy tastings of more than 75 wines and craft beers, along with wine-themed activities (wine bingo, anyone?), games such as cornhole and giant Jenga, a DJ and live music performances. “We are excited to partner with the Atlanta Sport and Social Club to bring you the Sandy Springs Wine Festival as part of the Sandy Springs Festival this year,” says Carol Thomp-
son, executive director of the Heritage Sandy Springs Museum and Park. “The Sandy Springs Wine Festival is part of a larger design to bring our city a cultural and fun experience. We plan to give our community a better and bigger festival than anytime in our 34-year history.” SANDY SPRINGS WINE FESTIVAL Sept. 28, noon-5 p.m. Tickets start at $25 Heritage Sandy Springs Museum and Park 6110 Blue Stone Rd. Sandy Springs 30328 facebook.com/events/995019650700898
September 2019 | Simply Buckhead
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E V E NTS
Noted designers share their thoughts on today’s hottest trends during Discover ADAC.
BUZZ DOGGIE DIP DAY Sept. 8 brookhavenga.gov/parksrec Grab your four-legged friends for a trip to the Murphey Candler Park pool in Brookhaven, where your canine companions can indulge in one last splash of summer. At this free event, small dogs (up to 35 pounds) swim from 1 to 2:30 p.m., and large dogs (more than 35 pounds) take to the water from 3 to 4 p.m.
[ DE S IG N ]
A Time for Discovery PICKING THE BRAINS OF THE DESIGN WORLD’S TOP TALENT Always a highly anticipated event at ADAC, Atlanta’s design destination, Discover ADAC brings together some of the industry’s top talents to share their insight and experience with attendees. The event takes place Sept. 24-26 and includes a full schedule of book signings, salon-style talks, cocktail sip and strolls, product launches and pop-up shops. Gather inspiration for your next project, ask your favorite designers for their thoughts and find out what trends are on the horizon.
This year’s lineup features Norman Askins, Timothy Corrigan, Lisa Fine, Eric Ross and Susan Sully. “Design centers are rare,” says Katie Miner, ADAC’s general manager. “ADAC is a hidden gem filled with people and products to help us live more beautifully. And Discover ADAC is the perfect time to be inspired by the biggest names in the world of design, as well as the most talented designers in the region.” Although all events are free to attend, registration is required.
DISCOVER ADAC
TASTE OF BUCKHEAD Sept. 24-26; check schedule for times Free ADAC 351 Peachtree Hills Ave. N.E. Atlanta 30305 adacatlanta.com/ discover-adac
Sept. 19 tasteofbuckhead.org Head to The Stave Room at American Spirit Works to sample tasty bites and beverages from some of Buckhead’s most notable eateries. General admission tickets include unlimited food and drink tastings, while VIP tickets also grant you a private tour of the ASW Distillery, chef demos and more.
Left: Guest curator Ben Coleman crafted works that use PCM as a “playground of acoustic space.” Right: Art displays explore the sonic qualities of PCM in engaging and unexpected ways.
Jeff Roffman
[ N E A RBY ]
SWAN COACH HOUSE FLEA MARKET
Making a Joyful Noise PUBLIC ART AND SOUND CREATE AN INTRIGUING MIX AT PCM Visitors to Ponce City Market on Sept. 26-29 can experience the Atlanta hot spot in an entirely new way. The site will host Flux: Ponce City Market, a free event exploring the space through public art. Flux Projects chose PCM for this year’s program because, with its history, it has so many stories to tell, says executive director Anne Archer Dennington. “Through sound, we’re inviting people to explore Ponce City
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Market differently, a place they may know well or may be visiting for the first time,” she says. “We’re highlighting sound projects because the medium is so underrepresented in Atlanta, and we’re always trying to bring new opportunities for artists and new experiences to our audience.” Curated by artist and musician Ben Coleman, the works displayed will utilize the building as a “playground of acoustic space.”
FLUX: PONCE CITY MARKET Sept. 26-29; times vary Free Ponce City Market 675 Ponce de Leon Ave. N.E. Atlanta 30308 fluxprojects.org
Sept. 19-21 swancoachhouse.com/ fleamarketevent A fundraiser for the Forward Arts Foundation, the Swan Coach House’s annual Flea Market returns with the opening night preview on Sept. 19, followed by the public market on Sept. 20 and 21. Browse the selection of clothing, jewelry, antiques, art and more to claim your own flea market find.
MAXWELL: A NIGHT AT THE SYMPHONY WITH THE ATLANTA SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA Sept. 27 atlantasymphony.org Enjoy an evening of music under the stars with a performance by neosoul artist Maxwell and the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra at the Cadence Bank Amphitheatre at Chastain Park. Concertgoers can expect to hear a mix of hit songs old and new.
The First Practice in Georgia to perform 10,000 CoolSculpting Treatments
Buckhead (404) 351-7546 | Marietta (770) 971-376 | Covington (770) 784-0343
We offer multidisciplinary and compassionate cancer care for patients diagnosed with melanoma, other aggressive skin cancers and sarcoma. In partnership with the Northside Hospital Cancer Institute, our specialized team consisting of experts in surgical oncology, radiology, pathology, reconstructive surgery, medical and radiation oncology, and nurse navigation are available to support our patients throughout their cancer journey, from prevention and treatment through survivorship. We are excited to welcome to Dr. Nicole Kounalakis, a surgical oncologist with over 10 years of experience that specializes in providing personalized treatment options to her cancer patients. She focuses on the surgical care of conditions including:
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Melanoma Squamous cell and basal cell skin cancer Merkel cell cancer Sarcoma
September 2019 | Simply Buckhead
Nicole Kounalakis, M.D. Surgical Oncologist
NorthsideMSOG.com Phone: 404-851-6000 980 Johnson Ferry Road NE Suite 940 Atlanta, GA 30342
CH AR I TABLE
Christina Graham, Alexis Hambrick
Photos: Paula Bond Heller
UNVEILING OF THE BENTLEY CONTINENTAL GT CONVERTIBLE
Marjorie Cundy, Stephen Cook, Ron Cundy
F Teneshia Forts, Greg Mabry Monica Bey, Carla Floratos
Alex Wan, John Brock, Jennifer Zuniga, Ava Zuniga, Mary Brock, Chris Brodnan
ans of luxury cars cruised up Highway 19 to the Bentley Atlanta dealership recently for an invitation-only unveiling of the 2020 Bentley Continental GT Convertible. One of the few dealerships in the country to offer a sneak peek at the new hand-built, open-air grand touring vehicle, Bentley Atlanta celebrated the exclusive viewing with a live auction that benefited Horizons Atlanta. Sales from the donated items, which included a Bentley 2020 GTC Weekend Experience and a microneedling package from Tailor Made Looks, raised almost $6,000, which will help fund two students’ participation in Horizons’ summer learning programs. The event also boasted a runway show featuring Elite Pour La Vie fashions and Etro handbags. Attendees, including retired CocaCola CEO John Brock and Clark University dean Fidel Turner Jr., dined on high tea-themed eats and drinks from Highland Bakery and Whispering Angel Rosé and enjoyed a pop-up gift suite from The Shops Buckhead.
Sid Barron, Nazy Gavahi, Joanne Hayes, Sonny Hayes
September 2019 | Simply Buckhead
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WHEELS AND HEELS It’s a battle of the beauties as our model poses in front of a shiny 1934 Packard Phaeton PHOTO: Sara
Hanna
WARDROBE: Courtesy of Tootsies. Alex Perry Julian one-sleeve
pleat gown ($2,300); Lizzie Fortunato ivory bangles ($150 apiece); Gas Bijoux green Lucite bracelet with stone ($425).
Atlanta Pet Life atlantapetlife.com
Simply Buckhead simplybuckhead.com
P.O. Box 11633, Atlanta, GA 30355 • 404-538-9895
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