Simply Buckhead November/December 2011 by Simply Buckhead

November/December 2011 | Simply Buckhead

S I M P LY BUC K H E A D ® | N OV E M B E R / D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 1

Students at Atlanta International School warm up during a rehearsal for “Beauty and the Beast.” Josh D. Weiss

Contents /// COVER STORY

/// DEPARTMENTS

BUCKHEAD’S HOLIDAY GEMS We uncover 28 of the season’s best secrets

9 LETTERS

35 SIMPLY ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

11 SIMPLY NOW 43 SIMPLY DELICIOUS 23 SIMPLY STYLISH 63 SIMPLY HAPPENING

/// FEATURES

CARIBBEAN TRAVEL 3 amazing escapes

THESPIAN SCHOOL OF COOL Atlanta International School in Buckhead a musical-theater powerhouse

FROM GUTTING TO GLORY A once-dilapidated Morningside home becomes Richie Arpino and Mitchell Anderson’s ideal sanctuary LOST IN A SEA OF KITSCH Dante’s Down the Hatch may be the best show in town

November/December 2011 | Simply Buckhead

“What I love about Buckhead is all the trees—you have all of these massive trees intertwined with the big buildings. It’s very homey to me, it doesn’t feel like a big city.” — Buckhead resident and blogger Lindsay Spencer. For interview, see page 50

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2011 | ISSUE #07 P.O. Box 11633, Atlanta, GA 30355 www.simplybuckhead.com For advertising rates call: 404-538-9895

/// CONTRIBUTOR

Sara Hanna

Contributing Photographer Sara Hanna is an Atlantabased commercial and editorial photographer with a talent for bringing portraits, products and interiors to life. A marketing degree led her to a 10-plus year career in business, but an eye for a great photo was a constant theme in her personal life. A rapidfire series of advanced photography classes and a twist-of-fate break into a local magazine later, and her photography career was officially on track. Hanna’s knack for learning what makes people tick, in conjunction with her extensive marketing background, has helped her make locals (such as local Food Network regulars Kevin Rathbun and Karen Portaleo) and celebrities (ESPN’s Erin Andrews, actress Vera Farmiga and designer Zac Posen) alike shine in photos. In this issue of Simply Buckhead, she showcases her versatility, providing the photography for four stories, including our Home feature. Learn more about her at sarahanna.com or follow her on Twitter at @ATLPhotos.

Publisher Joanne Hayes Editor-In-Chief Allison Weiss Entrekin Creative Directors Michael Bergman Omar Vega Account Executive Selena C. Bridges Contributing Editor Giannina Smith Bedford Contributing Writers Katie Kelly Bell Wendell Brock H.M. Cauley Felicia Feaster Jennifer Bradley Franklin Rachelle Hicks Brian Merman Christina Merman Elsa Simcik Margaret Watters Contributing Photographers Renee Brock Sara Hanna Josh D. Weiss Graphic Designer Leslie Haugen Copy Editor Ellen Glass Marketing Intern Nicole Cha

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 © 2011 by Simply Buckhead®. All rights reserved. Printed by Walton Press, Inc. Distributed by Distributech, Network Communications, Inc., and Distribution Services Group. Simply Buckhead® is a member of the Buckhead Business Association.

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Simply Buckhead®

ON L I N E ®

LIVE ON ! E STAG

Adapted and Directed by Jon Ludwig Based on the classic television special

Nov 3 - Dec 31 It's back!

You won’t want to miss this faithful adaptation of the wonderful holiday tradition that speaks to the misfit in all of us.

AC EN

BOOK NOW! 93 Sold Out performances in 2010!

Clay Walker

Supported in part by:

XCLUSIVE E R ! TE

RUDOLPH Light-Up Nose Hand Puppet

Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer and all elements from the 1964 television special Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer © and ™ under license to Character Arts, LLC.

Read Simply Buckhead online at www.SimplyBuckhead.com/tour.html with click-through capability

Available ONLY in our Museum Store!

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///Proud sponsor of:

Written and Directed by Jon Ludwig

Jan 26 - Mar 11, 2012 Previews: Jan 24 & 25

In space, no one can hear you... learn! Blast off on a galactic journey of scientific facts and pure fantasy with your hosts, Ot and Eema!

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Limited FREE Parking • MARTA Accessible Advance purchase is highly recommended. Season supported in part by: Fulton County Arts Council, Georgia Council for the Arts, National Endowment for the Arts, City of Atlanta Office of Cultural Affairs

November/December 2011 | Simply Buckhead

S I M P LY BUC K H E A D ® | N OV E M B E R / D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 1

Letters First I would like to say that I appreciate the opportunity for me to be on the cover of your magazine. I tweeted it a lot and received great feedback and I hope you guys did the same as well. My daughter got a kick out of it, even to this day, and she says she feels like a celebrity when she goes to school. I have the frame of pictures up in my place, as well as the magazines, in San Diego. Thanks again for allowing me to grace the cover of Simply Buckhead.

–Takeo Spikes, San Diego Chargers

I want to say I enjoy reading your new magazine! I love the large format. I’ve lived and worked in Buckhead for 10 years and am so glad to read a magazine devoted to the area.

–Kari Kenner, Grasshopper Marketing

Just wanted to thank you for the copies of Simply Buckhead. I particularly enjoyed the “Behind the Cover” section. What a great picture of you and your son and Mr. Spikes. Very special!

–Kelly Hornbuckle, Georgia Restaurant Association

Browsing the Internet, I came across Simply Buckhead. Fabulous magazine! I plan to relocate from New Jersey to Atlanta. Any chance I can subscribe to your publication? It is so informative and would help me as I am leaning toward Buckhead.

–Antonia Gray-Fenton

FROM OUR “TWEET”HEARTS! Follow us @SimplyBuckhead Enjoyed article on childhood home of Susan Rebecca White, NYT bestselling author. Love the 500-pound elephant! –BevsCornbread Honored to be a featured Atlanta stylist in the article “Style Secrets” in the Sept/Oct issue of Simply Buckhead. –editbylauren New Simply Buckhead available at Atlanta Activewear. Looks fabulous! Love the articles on style secrets and laughter yoga! –AtlActivewear Shout out to Simply Buckhead. It’s a good read. –propertygrind

You obviously aim to please, and you certainly have succeeded here. By the way, love the picture of Joanne and Takeo and Tyler.

We love being a part of such a wonderful publication! –LearningRxATL

Magazine looks great! Every issue you publish looks better than the last.

Check it out! The cover of Simply Buckhead’s Sept/Oct issue. Life is good. –TakeoSpikes51

–Diana Tipton

–David Zeh, Walton Press

We truly enjoyed our meeting with you! I loved Simply Buckhead the first time I picked it up, but now meeting you and knowing your story, I just love it even more. We are so excited to be a part of such an elegant publication.

/// EDITOR’S LETTER

his issue of Simply Buckhead was an eye-opener for me. I’ve lived here for a decade, but I’ve never had a clue just how much happens in Buckhead around the holidays.

Contributing editor Giannina Smith Bedford has opened my eyes. It seems like every art center in our area has a huge sale, every restaurant unveils a festive takeout menu and every bar pours a new seasonal cocktail. Who knew I could take my daughter to meet Santa at Corner Café while he gulps coffee with local firemen? And did I know the St. Regis Atlanta hosts a Black Friday tea for tired shopaholics like me? Nope. But now I do—and my calendar is marked. Read our cover feature and find yourself amazed … Buckhead positively glitters with holiday gems. Also in this issue, we give you ocean breezes and piña colada dreams with our special Caribbean travel section. From a honeymoon in St. Lucia to a villa vacation in Parrot Cay, our writers’ tales will make you wish for bathing-suit season (well, maybe). Enjoy this issue, and I’ll see you around town—apparently I have a lot of places to go. Allison Weiss Entrekin editor@simplybuckhead.com

–Randi Medley, Newks Express Café

/// LETTER BOX ///

/// CORRECTIONS ///

Tell us what you think! Send your comments, compliments and criticisms to editor@simplybuckhead.com. All letters will be considered for publication and may be edited for length and clarity.

In our September/October issue, we incorrectly stated that the Warrick Dunn Foundation builds homes for single parents. They fill homes; they do not build them. We regret the error.

/// BEHIND THE COVER Who better to help create our “hidden gem” cover than one of our city’s own gems, Highland Bakery Lead Decorator Karen Portaleo? Together with her team (shout out to Heidi and Joshua!), she created a nearly 3-foot-by-2-foot “ring box” cake, which photographer Renee Brock shot on location at the Atlanta Botanical Gardens. Between the cake, the antique English cricket table from Dearing Antiques on which it was displayed and the gorgeous holiday lights, the photographs positively shimmered. You’d never know our shoot wrapped five minutes before the heavens opened with a torrential downpour—or that three of our staff members’ children were playing just feet from the photo frame!

Cover photo: Renee Brock

November/December 2011 | Simply Buckhead

Give the gift of PLAY! The Big Adventure May 26 - Sept. 9, 2012 Adventures with Clifford The Big Red DogTM Feb. 4 - May 6, 2012 Once Upon A Time... Exploring the World of Fairy Tales Through Jan. 22, 2012

Gift Memberships

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A full year of play, programming & member discounts on summer camp, party celebrations, and special events!

Specialty toys, select books & fun early learning gifts especially selected for young children. Curbside pick-up available!

Museum Gift Certificates The gift of play for any day!

November/December 2011 | Simply Buckhead

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E V E N T S | L O C A L S A L U T E | T R AV E L

Simply Now

Travel

“When the going gets tough, the tough get going – on vacation, that is.” Turn to page 18

Parrot Cay sunset. Photo courtesy COMO Hotels. November/December 2011 | Simply Buckhead

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/// FREE EVENT ///

Marvelous night for a moondance Stare through a high-powered telescope at the full moon above while sipping cocktails and listening to tunes from a DJ. Toto, you’re not in the planetarium anymore—you’re at a “Full Moon Night” at Whiskey Blue at the W Buckhead. Every 28 days from 9 p.m. to close, the posh nightspot’s rooftop location becomes the place to stare into space and enjoy a view of the star-filled Buckhead skyline. The bar plays up the mooncentric theme with complimentary moon pies, $5 full moon shots and specialty cocktails throughout the night. The best part is there’s no cover for guests, who must be 21 and up to join the fun. On November 10, the event will be the SEC Tailgate Edition; fans are encouraged to come clad in game day attire (the most spirited win prizes), feast on gourmet tailgate fare and enjoy specials on bourbon and beer. On December 10, bust out your holiday finest (or tackiest) for the Ugly Sweater Edition and snack on candy canes, $5 Ho-Ho-Ho shots and gourmet cupcakes while standing under the mistletoe. Look through the telescope and you might even spot Santa prepping his gift-delivery route for Christmas day. — Giannina Smith Bedford

/// FEATURED EVENT ///

5 ways to give back in Buckhead Whether you have 10 minutes or 10 hours, you can make a difference this holiday season By Margaret Watters

’Tis the season, right, y’all? If you’re already feeling stressed by the Lenox traffic, and the line at the West Paces Starbucks for your peppermint latte has you clenching your fists, it’s probably time to break from your holiday routine and think about celebrating in new ways. The volunteer opportunities in Buckhead are joyfully exhaustive this time of year. Here are just a few ways and days we’re excited about: Keep the neighborhood looking nice by lending a hand to Buckhead Heritage on Nov. 12 as they continue their work to clean up Harmony Grove Cemetery with weeding and planting. No big plans for Thanksgiving this year? Grab the kids and head to Hosea Feed the Hungry downtown to serve Thanksgiving dinner to some Atlantans in need. We hear slots fill up, so sign up early. Escape to a Winter Wonderland for inner-city youth at the Carl E. Sanders Buckhead YMCA Dec. 10 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. The YMCA is looking for volunteers to help with décor, games, arts and crafts, and food. Busy that day? Swing some gifts by for kids, adults and seniors in need anytime between Nov. 25 and Dec. 9. Help Buckhead Christian Ministries with their annual Joyous Toy Store by organizing a toy drive at work or in your neighborhood. Easy-peasy, and who doesn’t love to go toy shopping?

photo by Mark Lewin

Whiskey Blue 3377 Peachtree Road N.E. Atlanta 30326

Bring men’s, women’s and children’s coats and blankets to Project Overcoat at Disco Kroger (3330 Piedmont Road for those of us who don’t remember the disco) Jan. 8–Jan. 22.

678.500.3192 www.gerberbars.com/whiskeyblue-atlanta

November/December 2011 | Simply Buckhead

The Carl E. Sanders YMCA needs volunteers to help with its Winter Wonderland for inner-city youth. Judy Ginn, Greer Heard, Belinda McCafferty and Kathleen Beck assist with organizing donations for Buckhead Christian Ministry’s Joyous Toy Store.

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Grab the kids for an afternoon of imagination and creative fun at The Children’s Museum December 13. Imagine it! The Children’s Museum of Atlanta

/// FAMILY-FRIENDLY ///

Free fairytale fun It’s story time at The Children’s Museum of Atlanta. On December 13, grab your little one and head to the museum for an interactive program with storyteller Sherry Norfolk. Norfolk, an inspiring professional storyteller for more than 30 years, will help guide children 8 and under through creating their own holiday stories inspired by classic folktales. It’s also Target Free Tuesday at the museum (which means admission for the whole family is free!), so get there early to brush up on your classic fairytales. The museum’s newest exhibit, “Once Upon a Time ... Exploring the World of Fairy Tales” will transport you around the world and behind the scenes of some of our most cherished childhood stories, including “Beauty and the Beast” and “Thumbelina.” Norfolk will present on the hour between 2 and 6 p.m.

Imagine It! The Children’s Museum of Atlanta December 13 275 Centennial Olympic Park Drive N.W. Atlanta 30313 404.659.5437 www.childrensmuseumatlanta.org

November/December 2011 | Simply Buckhead

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Local Salute By Margaret Watters

Band of brothers The Pease Brothers defy the odds to complete endurance races Brent, Evan and Kyle Pease aren’t ordinary brothers training for a triathlon. Twenty-six-year-old Kyle, often called “K. Peasey” by friends and family, was diagnosed with cerebral palsy as a child. When his older brother (and Buckhead resident) Brent, 28, recently completed an Ironman, it struck a chord in Kyle. “I remember very vividly talking with Brent and asking him how he felt and how his body reacted to the different sports,” Kyle says. “I said ‘I want to do a triathlon’—and from there, it just spiraled out.” The brothers signed up for the 2011 St. Anthony’s Triathlon in Florida and hired a training coach to help them with the logistics of getting Kyle across the finish line. They bought a special jogger for the running section of the race, outfitted a bike with an extra seat and worked with a family friend to create an inflatable raft they could pull Kyle in during the mile swim. When race day arrived, the three felt prepared. Brent says that one moment in particular from that day sticks out in his memory. For him, it was pulling Kyle to a practically deserted beach (everyone else had raced on) to find Evan, 26, waiting for them. “It was three brothers working together for this one goal, and no one else was involved,” Brent recalls.

Our neighborhood team Six Buckhead residents compete in an Ironman for charity

“Completing a race always feels good, but the deepest part of it was that all three of us did it together,” Evan Pease says. John David Johnson

Inspired by the experience, the brothers have established The Kyle Pease Foundation, dedicated to sharing this opportunity with other people with disabilities who may not have the monetary or family support to complete a race on their own. “Nothing would be cooler for us than to go to the next triathlon, and instead of seeing one boat in the water, you see two,” Brent says.

An Ironman is a 2.4-mile swim, 112-mile bike ride and a 26.2-mile run (yep, a marathon). For most of us, reading these distances is as close as we’ll get to completing them. Six of our Buckhead neighbors thought differently and wanted to see what all the fuss was about firsthand. Cameron Thomas, Gibson Bussey, Jason and Heather Bussey, Regina Pettus and Katie Aguilar are members of Team in Training Georgia’s first IronTeam. The six will run, swim and bike their ways to the finish line with a 47-person team Nov. 20 in Tempe, Ariz. The team’s 11-month training schedule got off to an icy, snowy start with the January blizzard. But they kept pushing through to their physical and fundraising goals, raising more than $250,000 for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. Jason says the training is so intense that most members scale back their social lives to make it work. But to him, it’s well worth it. “There are people who

are forced to literally live in bubbles because of chemo,” he says. “We can quit anytime, but you can’t quit chemo. So it makes it pretty easy to get yourself out of bed, even when you don’t feel like going.”

Buckhead residents (and Team in Training Georgia IronTeam members) Regina Pettus, Jason Bussey and Heather Bussey.

Nothing to poo-poo about Donated pet stations around the neighborhood help reduce waste Buckhead Coalition and Buckhead Pet Pals (a petsitting company) are cleaning up the streets—literally. Together they announced a joint initiative to purchase 14 “pet kits” (the stations with bags and cans for dog waste) for every Buckhead neighborhood and offer them to those neighborhoods’ civic organizations at a reduced cost. The doggie doo stations run $300 each and the Coalition is offering them for $25. So far, Buckhead Forest, Buckhead Heights, North Buckhead, Paces 14

West, Peachtree Hills, Peachtree Park, Pine Hills and Wildwood have all purchased stations for their public areas. Buckhead Coalition President Sam Massell says the additional stations are necessary for increasingly apartmentfocused Buckhead neighborhoods. Because these apartments often have limited green space, dogs are walked in surrounding areas and owners don’t always clean up after their pooches. Peachtree Hills Animal Hospital’s veterinarian Dr. Duffy Jones agrees

November/December 2011 | Simply Buckhead

the stations are important, which is why his practice donated one to the Peachtree Hills neighborhood. “We’re in the business of educating people about diseases that can go from dogs to kids and this is a way to prevent that,” Jones says. “When you make it easy, people will use it.” Buckhead Coalition President Sam Massell, Buckhead Forest Civic Association President Kim Kahwach and Buckhead Pet Pals Owner Shannon Centola holding Winston, a neighborhood resident. Garth Z. Peters

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SPECIAL SECTION

CARRIBEAN TRAVEL 3 Amazing Escapes

St. Lucia Page 16

Parrot Cay Page 18

Playa Del Carmen Page 20

Couple walking the beach at Parrot Cay. Photo courtesy COMO Hotels. November/December 2011 | Simply Buckhead

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Above: Enjoy views of the famous Pitons from your room in Ladera; bottom right: Ladera goes out of its way to foster a romantic atmosphere. Photos courtesy www.ladera.com

Honeymoon in Paradise From Ladera’s lush landscape to Jade Mountain’s sanctuary suites, a Buckhead couple recalls a St. Lucia honeymoon to remember By Brian and Christina Merman

fter our amazing—but exhausting—Atlanta wedding last May, we were more than ready to hop on a four-hour flight to St. Lucia, the site of our honeymoon. Our wish list for the trip was pretty straightforward: rest, privacy, fun excursions and some really good food (we both love to cook and eat!). We checked everything off our list—plus much more—during our stays at Ladera and Jade Mountain. Both located in St. Lucia, these resorts came highly recommended by some of our in-the-know friends, and we decided to experience each one for three nights. We knew we’d have a great time, but we never imagined how wildly the trip would exceed our expectations, or how months later we’d still shake our heads in wonder over what we’ve dubbed “the best honeymoon ever.”

November/December 2011 | Simply Buckhead

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Rainforest retreat

Our first stop was Ladera, an extremely private resort (there are only nine villas and 23 suites) located in a former cocoa plantation on the southwest side of the island. Each room is constructed from tropical hardwoods, with the western wall left open to showcase the views of the famous Pitons and the Caribbean Sea. Picture a fully loaded tree house for the Trump set. Of course, when you hear of an “open wall,” you might wonder: Is it still private? Will you get eaten up by bugs? Is the temperature comfortable? In our experience, the answers were yes, no and yes. The way the suites are oriented, guests are very removed from one another. The bugs left us alone, and when

birds came for a visit, we squirted them with water guns provided by the resort. We slept soundly to the sounds of nature outside and loved the cool breeze. The sun did wake us up rather early in the morning—but this simply meant we didn’t waste our days away snoozing. Instead, we wasted them away drinking piña coladas by the pool and snorkeling along the white-sand beach. (Hey, it was our honeymoon, right?) After a few days we were a bit more productive, joining the resort’s executive chef, Orlando Satchell, as he went to the farmer’s market to buy ingredients for the night’s meal at Dasheene, the hotel’s signature restaurant. At the market, he had us sample coconut milk, coconut jelly and other native ingredi-

ents he uses in his dishes. Then he took us back to Ladera and taught us how to make a few entrées. Between his funloving personality and incredible recipes (including a to-die-for curry soup), we had a blast cultivating our inner foodies. Another incredible excursion was our sunset cruise, operated by Mystic Man Tours. As we relaxed on a large sailboat, the staff played music, passed around rum punch and conch fritters, and pointed out dolphins as they played in our wake. It was a great way to get a sense of the island’s size and scope, and it also offered us our first glimpse of the place we’d be staying next—Jade Mountain.

7th Heaven Lamb at Ladera

Photo courtesy www.ladera.com

Ladera Musts: Must eat: Dasheene Lucian Lamb Curry or seafood salad, both from Dasheene. Must experience: A chef-led tour through the local farmer’s market. Must know: The concierge team is more than happy to make dinner reservations for you at non-resort restaurants, including the fabulous restaurant across the street at Hotel Chocolat. For a quiet night in, you can rent a board game or a DVD player and movie from the front desk. 866.290.0978 www.ladera.com

Jade Mountain Musts: Celestial palace

When you approach Jade Mountain (also located on the island’s southwest side), you can’t help but gawk at the architecture. Individual bridges lead to “sanctuaries” that rise higher and higher, with each boasting its own infinity pool just outside an open fourth wall. There are four sanctuary categories— Star, Moon, Sun and Galaxy—and the higher you ascend the complex, the larger the sanctuaries become. On our first night, we stayed in a “Sky Suite” on the lowest level—spanning 1,650 square feet, we thought it was plenty spacious and marveled at the thought of what a larger suite might look like. We would soon find out. After our first night, our Major Domo (i.e. “personal butler”) told us we had been upgraded to a Moon Sanctuary. When he led us to our room, we couldn’t believe our eyes—it was about 1,950 square feet, complete with a private infinity pool about one-third the size of the suite itself. How do you emerge

from a room like that? In the morning, we sipped coffee and read in the pool overlooking the Pitons while we waited for our room-service breakfast to arrive. During the day, we had spa treatments—in the room. We did occasionally manage to venture out to the dark-sand beach, where we went scuba diving and sipped mango daiquiris. We also had an incredible four-course dinner at Jade Mountain Club, where James Beard Award winner Chef Allen Susser wowed us with everything from a pan-seared mahi mahi to a sizzling New York strip. At the end of our trip, we were more than rested—we were revived. We returned to Atlanta ready to begin our lives as a married couple…and plan an anniversary trip to St. Lucia.

Must eat: Pan-seared mahi mahi with crab couscous or the Piton tower (pita, hummus, veggies)—both very fresh and healthy and available at Jade Mountain Club. Must experience: An in-sanctuary massage. Must know: The sand on the dark-sand beach is extremely hot. Wear sandals or flipflops when walking on the beach! 800.223.1108 www.jademountain.com

Above: Each “sanctuary” at Jade Mountain has its own infinity pool; two photos on right: Modern, colorful architecture is a Jade Mountain hallmark.

Photos courtesy www.jademountain.com

November/December 2011 | Simply Buckhead

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Dancing with the starfish Quiet luxury in the Caribbean By Joanne Hayes

Sun-drenched serenity in Parrot Cay. Photos courtesy COMO Hotels and Resorts

hen the going gets tough, the tough get going … on vacation, that is. A bit cliché, but with busy schedules, everyday life can sometimes seem like a battle to be won. Or at least paused with a truce, even if for a short time. After a barely two-and-a-half-hour flight from Atlanta to the main island of Providenciales in Turks and Caicos (in the British West Indies), you are whisked off to Parrot Cay’s private marina, where a boat awaits your arrival for a 35-minute transfer to this secluded paradise island of over 1,000 unspoiled acres which remain mostly undiscovered by mass tourism. As you speed to the island, the spray of warm water tangles your hair and teases with a salty promise of what lies ahead at this hidden gem, discovered by pirates who sailed its seas many years ago. The utmost privacy is ensured, as this tiny island is not only a resort, but also houses eight private villas belonging to Bruce Willis, Donna Karan, Keith Richards and Christie Brinkley, among other celebrity homeowners. No paparazzi allowed; the mere sight of a lensman’s bag causes alert. A beachfront villa at the resort, 100 feet from the ocean, features a private plunge pool, screened porch, built-in teak and whitewash furniture, a massive Balinese four-poster canopied bed draped with billowing cotton, and a huge bathroom with a separate soaking tub and shower. Robes and Parrot Cay’s signature flipflops (which, by the way, are the only shoes one need 18

don here, unless you plan to use the 24-hour gym) are provided. Fluffy white towels—oversized and comfortable—are plentiful. The toiletries are the resort’s own, and the intoxicating scent of the Invigorate line lingers in your memory long after your vacation ends. You are drawn into a spell from the moment you arrive until you wave goodbye from the dock. Whether you’re lounging by the infinity pool with the sun on your face, tropical drink in hand, or sitting under an umbrella reading a book beachside while raindrops fall, it’s easy to forget the day or time, and hard to think about not being this relaxed after you leave. The water is so turquoise it doesn’t seem real, the white sand on the mile-long beach pure limestone. Starfish can be plucked from the floor of the sea and are visible from waist-deep. The diving here is some of the world’s best, and should you choose to explore, deep-sea fishing, biking and kayaking can also be arranged. Returning at night to find your plunge pool lit, candles glowing, bed turned down and lights dimmed are just a few of the minor details that make Parrot Cay so magical. The fruit basket on your table is replenished daily, and while only the papaya is grown locally, the freshness of all is impeccable. You’ll swear you’ve never eaten any so good before. The peaceful COMO Shambhala Spa embodies a holistic way of life. With its own pool, Jacuzzi garden, steam room, sauna, massage, ayurvedic therapy, acupuncture and skin care services housed in several buildings, the overwhelming sensation here is quiet, just plain quiet. Complimentary yoga and Pilates sessions are offered throughout the week at the yoga pavilion overlooking the North Caicos channel, or on the beach, with some of the world’s leading teachers.

November/December 2011 | Simply Buckhead

All of this serenity exists among the property’s hibiscus trees, along with the lizards and sand crabs. The spa experience pervades dining as well. The COMO Shambhala Spa Menu is available at all times, featuring healthful cuisine like foods rich in living enzymes, vitamins and minerals, raw food items and mostly vegetarian dishes. Other dining locations include Lotus Poolside Restaurant, with local Caribbean specialties served at lunch and Southeast Asian-inspired menus for evening. If you ask nicely, the chef will share his recipe for steamed fish, with its fragrant ingredients of bok choy, ginger, scallions, and shiitake mushrooms—it will become a favorite dish to make at home. Terrace Restaurant features Italian-inspired Mediterranean cuisine and provides the morning breakfast buffet, where breads, pastries, granola, fresh-squeezed juices and homemade smoothies are created daily. Whatever suits your mood at breakfast, you’ll find it on the menu. It’s foolish not to sample one of everything over the course of your stay. The days pass slowly and leisurely, yet your stay seems to go so fast. It’s easy to arrive at Parrot Cay, and very hard to leave. There’s a reason the experience here was awarded “Best for Yoga, Spa Manager, Water, and Romance” in 2009 by Spa Finder, and “Top Resort Spa – Caribbean” in 2011 in Condé Nast Traveler’s annual readers’ poll. When’s the next flight? parrot cay 877.754.0726 www.parrotcay.como.bz

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Beachfront villas at Parrot Cay offer the utmost in luxury and comfort.

Get vacation-ready! To stock up on products to protect your skin while enjoying the warmth of the sun on your face, visit Woo Skincare and Cosmetics at Peachtree Battle Shopping Center. Caudalie and Darphin are among their skin care lines; Dermalogica® is used for Anti-Aging Facials. These three are from the Dermalogica® AGE Smart™ line, designed to fight signs of skin aging caused by exposure to the elements:

Enjoy a spa treatment overlooking the marshes at COMO Shambhala.

1. Antioxidant Hydramist for dry and dehydrated skin, with white tea, licorice, and Vitamin E. $37 2. Dynamic Skin Recovery (with SPF 30) for daytime moisturizing. $62 3. Age Reversal Eye Complex with peptides and Vitamin C. $75

And for sun-kissed lips, Yves St. Laurent Rouge Volupté Lipstick #23, a berry pink that pairs nicely with Dessins des Lèvres Lip Liner. The lipstick is feathery-soft but doesn’t bleed, and keeps your lips soft and moisturized. $34 and $25.

Woo Skincare and Cosmetics 2339 Peachtree Road N.E. Atlanta 30305 404.477.5000

www.wooskincareandcosmetics.com

Guests may opt for a private dinner on the beach in Parrot Cay. November/December 2011 | Simply Buckhead

S IMP LY N OW T RAVE L

Visitors to Playa del Carmen can relax on shaded beds on the beach.

Play in Playa Veer off the tourist-beaten path in Playa del Carmen By H.M. Cauley

he pearly Caribbean beaches of Cancún are lined with American-style resorts that fill up with tourists looking for sunny beaches and energetic nightlife. About an hour south and across the channel, the island of Cozumel attracts cruise ships that unload passengers daily. This stretch of the Riviera Maya can be a busy place, but between Cancún and Cozumel is an area where life isn’t quite so crowded. Since the days of the Mayas, visitors have stopped at the tiny town of Playa del Carmen on the way to other destinations. Today, the community’s 20

historic roots are evident in the old town square, the churches, the pedestrian shopping district and the expansive beaches. Though there are several posh resorts and nightclubs, there is also the hum of small-town life that exists beyond the major attractions. For those who just want to be pampered, Playa’s beachfront resorts offer everything from shaded beds on the beach to swim-up bars in the pool. Many are all-inclusive, so guests can leave their wallets in the wall safe while ordering unlimited food and beverages. One of the most luxurious resorts here is the Royal Playa del Carmen, which pampers visitors with a full spa, balconies with hammocks, beach butlers who bring food and drink to your lounge chair, and a range of dining options that include French and Mediterranean cuisine. A few blocks from the beach, the town’s Fifth Avenue has been paved over as a pedestrian walkway. Here, shoppers and sightseers can stroll leisurely past jewelry, clothing and accessory boutiques, sample the local seafood for lunch or refresh with a skewer of fresh fruit from a shaded cart in the

November/December 2011 | Simply Buckhead

market square. If you want to take a short trip to Cozumel, it’s an easy walk from the heart of town to the square and the docks from which the ferries leave about once an hour. No Mexican getaway would be complete without checking out the lively nightlife. Playa has plenty, and it keeps locals and visitors alike in the streets until the wee hours. The one not-to-miss spot is Coco Bongo, a hybrid nightclub, theater and dance club where patrons and servers climb on the elevated bar to show off their moves. In between songs, performers stage complicated dance numbers set to famous musical or pop tunes. There’s even a bit of acrobatics thrown in (think Cirque du Soleil with tequila). Playa is centrally located near several fascinating historic sites. The gray, ancient ruins of Tulum, where the earliest Mexicans established a community, stand defiantly overlooking the Caribbean. And at the eco-archaeological Xcaret Park, visitors can learn more Mayan history, check out the local flora and fauna, hike nature trails and stay for dinner and the “Mexico Spectacular,” a show that recaps cen-

turies of life on the Yucatán Peninsula. Perhaps one of the most attractive features of Playa is the graciousness of the locals toward non-natives whose only Spanish words may be “por favor” and “gracias.” American currency is gladly accepted, as are major credit cards. And don’t worry about the water; whether drinking or gargling, it’s safe. Playa is comfortable and laid-back, and visitors are invited to do as much or as little as possible. Unlike its flashier neighbors, this is still a small town, a place where visitors can slow down and sip tequila next to a table of locals or talk to local artisans at an outdoor market. In an area known as a tourist mecca, Playa still offers a serene escape.

Playa del Carmen, Mexico Several websites provide detailed information about Playa, including www.iloveplaya.com and www.playadelcarmen.com. Both AirTran and Delta offer direct flights from Atlanta to Cancún. And remember: A passport is required to travel in Mexico.

November/December 2011 | Simply Buckhead

H O M E | FA S H I O N | W E L L N E S S

Simply Stylish Modern Elegance

“This is the place we love to entertain and actually call home.” — Richie Arpino, ‘From gutting to glory.’ Page 24

Richie Arpino and Mitchell Anderson’s dining table is adorned with a glass vase gifted to them by Ed Roland, lead singer of Collective Soul, and his wife Michaeline.

November/December 2011 | Simply Buckhead

S IMP LY STY LIS H HOM E

The home’s original wood-beamed ceiling brings warmth to the modern décor. Photos by Sara Hanna Photography - www.SaraHanna.com

From gutting to glory A once-dilapidated Morningside home becomes Richie Arpino and Mitchell Anderson’s ideal sanctuary By Giannina Smith Bedford

ome people can pick out a diamond in the rough and see the glittering potential that lies beneath a lackluster exterior. This is exactly what Richie Arpino and his partner, Mitchell Anderson, were able to do when looking for a home in 2003. When Arpino rode his Vespa in Morningside in search of a home to buy, the owner of Richie Arpino Salon in Buckhead discovered a neglected mid-century abode with potential. Almost in complete ruins, the home suffered from years of bad renovations and neglect. But despite its dilapidated façade, the home’s modern one-level floor plan, clean architectural lines and rooms, each with its own exterior door, gave it the bones to become Arpino and Anderson’s dream dwelling.

Richie Arpino and Mitchell Anderson nicknamed their home “Anderpino Park.”

November/December 2011 | Simply Buckhead

After calling Anderson, a former actor on “Party of Five” and owner of restaurants MetroFresh and MetroFresh in the Garden, the couple decided to consult some professionals for advice. “We called up our friends who are architects and asked them about it, and they actually already knew the house,” Arpino says. “They said, ‘Get the house—we already have plans for it.’” Mark Williams and his team from Mark Williams Design Associates helped Arpino and Anderson transform the dilapidated California ranch-style home built in 1950 into a Frank Lloyd Wrightinspired retreat, which the couple likes to refer to as Anderpino Park. Here, Arpino and Anderson entertain, cook and relax with their pup, Schotzi. Although they are delighted to be living in their “dream house,” the path to the haven’s completion came with its fair share of trials. To start, the 10-month renovation of the three-bedroom, two-bath home cost double what they expected. “When you have an old house like this that wasn’t very well taken care of, you’re going to run into problems,” Anderson says. And indeed, the one-story home needed a severe gutting. Arpino and Anderson (with Williams’ help) stripped it of its rough appearance, replacing the floors, electricity and air conditioning, and leaving just a shell to work with. They took out the interior walls, allowing the design team to create an open floor plan with Brazilian cherry wood floors and accents like frosted glass walls in the dining room. One of the few elements that survived the massive demolition is the home’s original woodbeamed ceiling—a touch that attracts the eyes of visitors today and creates a warm contrast to the modern décor. Arpino, Anderson and Williams also love the outdoor spaces that range from quaint courtyards to a large green side lawn. “All we wanted to do in looking at the house was bring back its original nature and strip off the bad things that had been done to it over the years,” Williams says. “References to the outdoor space were really kind of poor and now the whole house, from the family room to the living room, opens up to these wonderful outdoor courtyard areas.” Although Williams assisted with the majority of the structural work, Arpino and Anderson took the reins on interior decoration, purchasing furniture and décor from shops like 14th Street Antiques, DRTC (Delaware River Trading Company) in Midtown and Anthony|Wolf in Buckhead. Barcelona chairs and low tables adorn the living room, and a custom tigerwood dining table with a lucite base—an item Arpino purchased at a Design Industries Foundation Fighting

Top: Richie Arpino’s guitars dot the home. bottom left: Anderson and Arpino relax by their 8-foot-long island; bottom right: The skylit dining room features frosted glass walls and a custom tigerwood dining table.

AIDS (DIFFA) benefit—is the focal point of the skylit dining room. “The [décor] inspiration was that Frank Lloyd Wright look and feel, and going to Palm Springs. All the Palm Springs homes are like this,” Arpino says. Anderson’s main area of interest during the home’s renovation was the kitchen; not only does he cook for a living, he also makes a gourmet dinner at home three to four nights a week. Equipped with chefworthy Sub-Zero and Bosch appliances, the kitchen is done in dark wood cabinetry and poured concrete countertops. At 6 feet 6 inches wide and 8 feet long, the oversized island, which seemed a little too oversized to Anderson at first, proved to be ideal for prepping food while entertaining. “They came to install the island

and I called Mark and said, ‘The Queen Mary has landed in our kitchen,’” Anderson recalls. “It just seemed ridiculously big, but it totally works.” Arpino’s passions, music and photography, can also be spotted throughout the home. The halls are covered with Arpino’s photography and a corner in the living room is dedicated to his collection of guitars—one a 1956 Gibson given to him by his father, one that belonged to Jon Bon Jovi, which Arpino bought at a silent auction, and one given to him by Ed Roland, lead singer of Atlanta alternative rock band Collective Soul. The living room is also home to a piano, which Arpino uses to belt out Elton John tunes at the drop of a hat. After nearly eight years of enjoying the

fruits of their renovation labors, Arpino and Anderson are happy they can look back with humor at the toil required to create their dream house. For others attempting to transform a diamond in the rough into a glittering jewel, the couple advises taking one day at a time and remembering that, despite the struggles, there is a light at the end of the tunnel. “We are so glad we saw the vision and potential this house had, although during the process it was sometimes hard to visualize,” Arpino says. “However, this is the place we love to entertain and actually call home. What a great feeling and so worth it!”

Continued >>

November/December 2011 | Simply Buckhead

SI MPLY STYLI SH H OME

Continued from page 25

Top five essentials for a chef-worthy kitchen:

Mitchell Anderson, owner and chef at MetroFresh and MetroFresh in the Garden, gives us his top five essentials for a chef-worthy kitchen:

November/December 2011 | Simply Buckhead

Food Processor. Cuisinart is the best. I use it every day to make dressings, hummus, salsa, grate cheese … The possibilities are endless!

Two sharp knives. The biggest misconception is that chefs need a big knife kit. If you have one good 10- or 12-inch chef’s knife and a paring knife, you really don’t need anything else. I use a bread knife and once in a while a slicer, but basically my 12-inch chef’s knife is my best friend.

Plastic containers in various sizes. In my house it’s almost impossible to find matching lids and bases, but it sure would be helpful when trying to preserve prepped food and that last morsel of some awesome dinner you made on Tuesday night!

A large well-seasoned cast iron skillet. They’re not perfect for everything, but when you’re sautéing some onions and peppers and making a Sunday frittata to slip into the oven, there’s nothing better.

A large 20-quart stockpot. You won’t use it very often and they’re a pain to store, but after Thanksgiving, when you want to make a delicious turkey soup, or on your Nana’s 80th birthday when you want to boil a few Maine lobsters, you’ll wish you had one.

S IMP LY STY LIS H W E L L N E SS

Pulleying my weight A true story of tackling the only Kinesis Wall in Atlanta

By Joanne Hayes

y quest to shape up for vacation turned out to be life-changing. The last two years have been a blur, with my fiveday-a-week workout routine taking a back seat to new obligations. That’s why I reached out to Jamie Bodner at Pinnacle Fitness, the home of the only Kinesis Wall in North Georgia. Kinesis is the Greek word for movement, and the Kinesis Wall was designed to challenge a user’s strength, stability and flexibility in an engaging and intuitive way. Pulleys, cables, grips and weights activate the core with every move and are capable of facilitating hundreds of exercises, from sports-specific training to yoga, Pilates and T’ai Chi. Kinesis is constantly evolving and is done one-on-one or in a class with no more than four to six people. A typical session lasts an hour. Three-and-a-half years ago, when Bodner was opening Pinnacle Fitness, he wanted a cable system and turned to Technogym for the best—hence, the Kinsesis Wall. Though it cost him $45,000 and he needed 450 square feet in which to put it, he felt it was worth the investment for the quality of training. Since that time, he has hired staff with backgrounds in football, bodybuilding, military, Pilates, physical therapy, dance, and chiropractic; they

all agree that with this wall, there are no limits to the moves that can be devised. A “Fitness Design Expert,” Bodner tailored the program specifically to me, including homework (cardio on days I’m not strength training). I’ve rotated among five professional trainers here in six months, and the philosophy of all is to go to fatigue, not failure. My “X” factor is recognized each session, so I never leave feeling like I’ve been in a boxing match. I’m energized (not brutalized), smiling, and don’t need a nap. Well, maybe I am a little sleep-deprived these days! Bodner helps me find options when I am traveling and stays in touch by using modern technology (email and texts). With his knowledge of science and anatomy, he’s aggressive in educating about nutrition. Ask him what gives him the greatest satisfaction, and he’ll say: “Changing the quality of someone’s life and the way they perceive themselves. They stand taller, they are more confident, and just feel better about themselves. That’s what is so awesome and makes 14- to 15-hour days easy.” At 50, I’m proud to be in top physical condition, and of course the side benefit … wearing my favorite pair of jeans again. Pinnacle Fitness 3215 Cains Hill Place N.W. Atlanta 30305 404.228.3705 www.pinnaclefitnessgym.com

3 More Unique Local Workouts •

•

Take an SPX Fitness ™ class on a Megaformer™, and reap the benefits of Pilates, cardio and strength training in one 50-minute session. www.stellarbodiesatl.com Dance with weighted hula hoops, resistance bands and balance balls—and knock off 1,000 calories—during a ValeoFit 1000 class. www.valeoclub.com How can girls ages 6 to 12 get exercise? They can take a Girl Power class, where the emphasis is on staying healthy for the right reasons—and having fun. Think basic cardio, jumping rope and using the balance ball for light strength work. www.powerlady.com

Training with Jamie Bodner on Pinnacle Fitness’ Kinesis Wall. photo by Josh D Weiss; athletic apparel and sneakers provided by DEKA Athletic

November/December 2011 | Simply Buckhead

S IMP LY STY LIS H FAS HION

Hot coats for cold weather Update your coat closet with fresh looks and fun styles By Elsa K. Simcik

ust because Buckhead doesn’t dip down to sub-zero temps in the winter, doesn’t mean we don’t all need a little coverage. Some days we even need lots of coverage. (Let’s not forget the snowstorm of January 2011.) But since we rarely have to don heavy parkas, we can have a little more fun with our outerwear. Here’s a look at a few of our favorite styles from local shops.

Georgiou Studio Military-Inspired Coat Function and fashion: This women’s coat “will keep you warm and stylish at the same time,” says Monyetta Shaw, owner of Emerlyn & Ester Boutique in Buckhead. “Everyone loves the pea coat,” she says, “but instead of traditional navy or black, we chose to get in with a bold pop of color.” Around town: Shaw likes the coat’s versatility and says it can be worn in carpool, to work or to dinner. She adds, “This coat is stylish, bold, classic and ageless. This coat is Buckhead.”

Outfitting: “I personally would wear this with leggings, jeans, trousers, or a dress. I would make this my go-to coat for just about any outfit,” Shaw says. Available for $230 at Emerlyn & Ester Boutique 3209 Paces Ferry Place N.W., Suite 7 Atlanta 30305 404.848.8494 www.emerlynandester.com

No Excess Double Breasted Coat

Gryphon Man Repeller Coat What’s in a name? This women’s coat was designed in part by Leandra Medine, author of “The Man Repeller,” a popular fashion blog that focuses on trends that women love but men hate (like harem pants and jumpsuits). But women need not fear that this coat will repel men, says Morgan Henzlik, owner of Morgan Kylee Boutique in Buckhead. “The name simply comes from Leandra’s collaboration with Gryphon,” she says. In fact, with the animal print on the back, she says, “You would think and hope that men would really dig it.” For the fall or for a freeze? Henzlik says it’s lightweight and allows for layering. “It is very possible to have a

65-degree day in December,” she says. “However, the piece is so well made that the construction of the coat will shield wind very well.” Not just for superheroes: While Gryphon is calling it a trench, Henzlik says it takes the shape of a cape, which, she adds, are “huge this season.” The cape style is very flattering and effortless, according to Henzlik.

Outfitting: “The outfits are endless with this,” Henzlik says. She offers some ideas: black skinny jeans tucked into shorter black motorcycle boots with a simple ivory sweater; or a fitted gray dress and black chunky suede heels.

Available for $620 at Morgan Kylee 3273 Roswell Road Atlanta 30305 404.307.4668 www.morgankylee.com

Why it works: Local clothing designer Bill Hallman (who has stores in Buckhead, Virginia Highland and Little Five Points) says this men’s coat has a “rugged masculine style with a modern, updated fit and material.” He adds that it’s a good weight for Atlanta winters. Combo coat: The coat seems to be a hybrid between a pea coat and a bomber jacket, according to Hallman. He credits this for giving it a look that is classic without being traditional.

Outfitting: Hallman says, “It can be dressed up with slim dark pants, a button-up shirt and vest or worn casual with jeans, a sweater and boots.” Available for $284 at Bill Hallman 792 N. Highland Avenue Atlanta 30306 404.876.6055 www.billhallman.com Photos by Sara Hanna Photography www.SaraHanna.com

What’s in for outerwear

Besides the trends shown here—capestyle, double-breasted and military— here are some more styles you might see around Buckhead this winter, based on buzz around the fashion blogs:

For Women: Elegant coats Bright colors: orange, burgundy, blue Maxi coats (think long) Snake prints Retro—60s and 70s

For Men: Camel Tweed Preppy-look Gray Fabrics like velvet, cashmere and leather

November/December 2011 | Simply Buckhead

Tasty treats Here’s a little help to finding your way to their hearts

Simply Sensational

Holiday

Gifts

A Special Advertising Section

Perfection in each bite! Experience our moist delish munchie mini pound cakes and Gourmet treats! Great for Special Occasions, Holidays, Parties, Corporate Events, or just because you love.....Pound Cake. We Ship All Over the Country! Munchadoodle 404.855.7199

www.munchadoodle.com

A fresh-baked treat from Pie Shop is always a savory choice. Whether for corporate gifts or your holiday host, a hand-crafted pie couldn’t be more appropriate. Buckhead’s new Pie Shop is already being called “one of the city’s best dessert destinations.” Get your holiday order in now before this artisan bakery sells out. Pie Shop 3210E Roswell Road Atlanta 30305 404.841.4512

www.the-pie-shop.com

November/December 2011 | Simply Buckhead

S PECI A L A DV E RT ISING SEC T ION

The royal treatment For the trendsetting man or woman with discerning taste, Mel Boteri offers the opportunity to create a oneof-a-kind, custom bag. Premium European components, along with you as the designer, will create an iconic addition to your wardrobe and a piece you will keep forever. Located in Buckhead, Miller Brothers has been meeting the wardrobe needs of well-dressed Atlanta men and visitors since 1996. Founded by brothers Robby and Greg Miller, the shop offers custom and off-the-rack clothing along with quality sportswear, shoes and gifts in a welcoming, relaxed setting.

Mel Boteri By appointment only 404.259.9196

www.MelBoteri.com

Miller Brothers 3207 Paces Ferry Place Atlanta 30305 404.233.8000

www.millerbrothers.com

Happy holidays begin at Mercedes-Benz of Buckhead where 2011 Certified PreOwned C-Class models begin at $28,995—all low mileage, and immaculately maintained. Choose also from four floors on new 2012s aggressively priced right now. Mercedes-Benz of Buckhead 2799 Piedmont Road NE Atlanta 30305 800.398.9528

www.mercedesofbuckhead.com The Kings of Atlanta Grooming Lounge & Spa is Buckhead’s oasis for men who require more than the basic haircut. Amenities include facials, massages, hand and foot detailing, and expert shoe shine. K.O.A. enhances the experience with private label grooming products, custom suits, and personal shopping. The Kings of Atlanta 360 Pharr Road Atlanta 30305 404.816.1506

www.TheKingsOfAtlanta.com

Longines Admiral: sporting performance, an affair of attitude, spirit and form. Aesthetics, precision and the beauty of the action predominate. Frequent travelers and the adventurers will appreciate the 24h “second time zone” watches. This line illustrates Longines’ innate ability to match elegance and performance. $3950 Guven’s Fine Jewelry 1790 Mall of Georgia Boulevard Buford 30519 678.546.9099

www.guvenfinejewelry.com November/December 2011 | Simply Buckhead

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Step out in style Gifts to make anybody into the most fashionable person

Vintage Chanel buttons set in sterling silver and strung on freshwater pearls are the perfect Holiday gift! Styles and prices will vary. Just the Thing has “the BEST selection of Jewelry and Handbags in town”! Find this bracelet and a lot more at their little yellow house on Pharr Road. Just the Thing 529 Pharr Road NE Atlanta 30305 404.869.4100 www.shopjustthething.com

Pretty Please invites you to discover our fairy tale land filled with unique apparel, décor, accessories, and gifts for children ages newborn to 14 years! Looking for something different? Let our friendly staff help you find the perfect gift this season that is sure to make your BABY, CHILD, or TWEEN smile with joy! Pretty Please Atlanta 3716 Roswell Road Atlanta 30342 404.254.3187

www.prettypleaseonline.com

Diverse selection of stylish, affordably priced shoes for active children on the go. One stop shopping, from name brand athletics to casual and dressy footwear for boys and girls. Sprong prides itself on excellent customer service with a knowledgeable and helpful staff. Sizes infant to big kid 7.

Mint Julep is Atlanta’s exclusive Lilly Pulitzer store located in the Peachtree Battle shopping center. Customers will find the entire collection of Lilly Pulitzer products under one roof including Women’s, Children’s and Men’s apparel, shoes, bags, jewelry, gifts and the new Lilly Home collection. MINT JULEP 2353 Peachtree Road Atlanta 30305 404.814.9155

www.mintjulepga.com

November/December 2011 | Simply Buckhead

SPRONG Children’s Shoes 375 Pharr Road Ste. 502 Atlanta 30305 404.846.8506

S PECI A L A DV E RT ISING SEC T ION

Truly unique Give differently this year

Rediscover The Joy of Listening to Vinyl Records. Designed and built by audiophiles, the Music Hall USB-1 is a convenient and easy to use turntable. Whether you’re looking to digitize your record collection, seeking the best listening experience or a just new toy for the Man Cave - the USB-1 is your answer. Music Hall USB-1 - $250 Mojo Vinyl 534 Webb Street #8 Roswell 30075 678.534.5042 www.mojovinylrecords.com

Pairing The Corkcicle with a bottle of wine is one of our favorite gifts this holiday season. Fabulous packaging with a beautiful bow is sure to please your wine-lover. This and many other brilliant gifts are at Swoozie’s this holiday season. We wrap for free, even gifts that are not from Swoozie’s – just purchase the paper and ribbon here! Chastain Square, 4285 Roswell Road, Ste. 10, Atlanta 30342, 404.252.7979, and The Forum, 5131 Peachtree Parkway, Ste. 1015, Norcross 30092, 770.263.6441

www.swoozies.com

Everyone needs an UGLYDOLL! These fun colorful plush characters live in Uglyverse, a place where UGLY means unique and special. From small kids who love the funny faces to teenagers who identify with their creative descriptions, these Uglies are great gifts for any age. Winner of multiple Best Toy Awards! $5.99-19.99

Bean Head Toys, NEW Buckhead location, 3497 Northside Parkway NW, Atlanta 30327, 404.841.0826, and 220 Johnson Ferry Road NE, Sandy Springs 30328, 404.851.2980, www.beanheadtoysonline.com

If you’re hosting the next holiday party, order custom wine for the table. Your guests will feel special knowing that you took the time. Placing your order is as easy as selecting your wine style and then deciding on a personalized wine label that suits your occasion best. Urban Vines Wine Company 404.919.6494

www.urbanvineswc.com

November/December 2011 | Simply Buckhead

O N S TA G E | A RT V I E W | L I T E R A RY

Simply Arts&Entertainment Art View

“Getting a glimpse inside the creative process is the idea behind First Thursday Art Walks.” — “What were they thinking?” page 37

Paint on an artist’s palette at Tula Art Center, home of First Thursday Art Walks. Photos by Sara Hanna Photography - www.SaraHanna.com November/December 2011 | Simply Buckhead

S IMP LY A & E ON STAGE

Thespian school of cool Atlanta International School in Buckhead a musical-theater powerhouse By Wendell Brock

hey are just high-school kids rehearsing a fall musical. But that doesn’t stop their director from offering withering critiques. “It feels like Snore Fest,” sniffs the Atlanta International School’s Rob Warren after the group runs through the sprawling opening scene of “Disney’s Beauty and the Beast.” He doesn’t care that it’s the Monday after a weeklong field trip and that everyone is a little rusty. They are going to have to do better than this. “That was the Village of the Damned version,” Warren yells. “Now we are going to do the cartoon characterized version!” Might the director be putting on a show because a reporter is in the house? “No,” says 11th-grader Lorenzo Gonzales, who plays Beast. “He’s toning it down.” Apparently, you don’t soar to the top of the region’s high-school theater scene by pussyfooting around. Fifteen years ago, Atlanta International School’s theater program consisted of seven passionate kids. Today, more than 150 students in grades 9 through 12 participate in extracurricular thespian activities. And for two out of the last three years, the academy, based in Garden Hills, has swept the Shuler Hensley Awards, established in 2009 to honor excellence in the city’s sprawling high-school musical-theater scene (and named after the Atlantaborn Tony Award winner who attended The Westminster Schools). Arts-magnet schools like Cobb County’s Pebblebrook High and Sandy Springs’ North Springs Charter High were expected to dominate the first Shulers, not this U.N. of Atlanta schools, where Mandarin and Latin are taught. (Kids from more than 70 countries attend here, and the student population is evenly divided between Americans and nonnatives.) “I think as a group we felt a little intimidated by the other schools,” says Laetitia Butler, who portrays Mrs. Potts in “Beauty and the Beast.” But at the inaugural Shulers, the Buckhead underdog’s production of Sondheim’s “Into the Woods” shook up the Cobb Energy Centre gala with four wins, including best overall 36

production and best directing honors for Warren. Then, in 2010, AIS did it again. Its production of “Oliver” won an astonishing six Shulers (including, once again, best overall show and top director laurels for Warren). Perhaps because AIS’s most recent production, “Urinetown,” was snubbed at the Shulers, the pressure is on for “Beauty and the Beast.” But Warren, a British native who himself attended an international school when his dad took a job in Germany (he came to America for college), insists he’s not motivated by thespian

November/December 2011 | Simply Buckhead

competitions. He threw the first Shuler application in the trash—twice. But after reading that the awards were to be a celebration of the arts, he reconsidered. Winning “didn’t prove that we were better than anybody else,” he says. “But it proved that we have something special at this school that we have been building for years.” Indeed, several AIS graduates have gone on to successful entertainment careers. Chris Lowell (’03) played the boyfriend of Emma Stone’s Skeeter in the hit movie “The Help.” And Jocelyn Kuritsky (’99) is a member of New

York’s Woodshed Collective, an experimental theater that has gotten strong notices from The New York Times. Gonzalez, whose portrayal of the Artful Dodger in “Oliver” won him a Shuler Award as a ninth grader, plans to pursue a career in theater. The son of Colombian parents, Gonzalez started AIS as a 3-year-old kindergartener (yes, you read that right) and now wants to study drama at Yale, Brown or Northwestern. “The way I see it, I would not be happy doing anything else,” he says. Neither would Warren, who, despite his tough talk during rehearsals, says he’s looking forward to putting on a show that will inspire both audiences and the young thespians under his tutelage.“To be honest,” he says, “I picked ‘Beauty and the Beast’ because it’s going to be a show that will bring the community together and the spirit back to the school.’’

Left: Eleventh-grader Julia Henry, who plays Belle in the Atlanta International School’s production of “Beauty and the Beast”; above: Director Rob Warren coaches his students through the play’s opening scene. Josh D. Weiss

“Disney’s Beauty and the Beast” 7 p.m. Nov. 17-19; 2 p.m. Nov. 19. Lademacher Performing Arts Center Atlanta International School 2890 North Fulton Drive Atlanta 30305 404.841.3840 www.aischool.org

S IMP LY A & E A RT VIE W

“What were they thinking?” Get inside the artist’s vision during Tula’s First Thursday Art Walks

A visitor takes in an Alexi Torres oil painting during a First Thursday Art Walk at Tula Art Center in Buckhead. Photos by Sara Hanna Photography - www.SaraHanna.com

By H.M. Cauley

t’s one thing to see a piece of art and love it. It’s another to know exactly what was going on inside the artist’s head when the work was created. Getting a glimpse inside the creative process is the idea behind First Thursday Art Walks, held monthly at Tula Art Center. This multi-level enclave of creativity off Bennett Street in Buckhead is home to more than 30 artists of all mediums who open their spaces to the public for an evening of wine, snacks and conversation. “The really nice thing about having people come into your studio is that you can talk to them directly about the inspiration for your art,” says Cat Tesla, who has been painting ethereal landscapes for 15 years. That’s the attraction for Tom Whitlatch, a Sandy Springs PR executive who’s been attending the monthly

events for about a year. “It’s a wonderful chance to visit a colony of artists and partake of the thoughts, the verbal and intellectual exchange, that’s not highbrow,” he says. “No one is snobbish at all; it’s very down-to-earth. And there’s a good crowd—you’ll see students, as well as leaders of the community, as well as this close-knit group of artists that support each other.” Artist Clara Blalock grew up in Buckhead and has been part of the Tula scene for 17 years, working exclusively on oversized oil abstracts—a job that requires the high ceilings and open spaces the building offers. She says the First Thursday events give her the chance to cultivate new business. “People aren’t going to walk in and buy an abstract painting right on the spot,” she says. “But I can make good connections with people, and that has helped and will help my career. … I usually have the best wine, so a lot of them

wind up hanging out at my space!” The open studio events are also a way for artists to get people thinking about Tula as more than a gallery; it’s a place where artists and the public can interact and see works in various stages of production. “First Thursdays give us a way to provide our vision directly to the clients,” Tesla says. “They can come into a studio that’s laid back and warm, and talk directly to the artists. And for me, it’s very gratifying to get feedback. It’s also nice to know who’s adopting your work. When somebody views your work and gets it, then wants to make it part of their collection, that’s a real privilege.” First Thursday Art Walks 6 to 9 p.m. Tula Art Center 75 Bennett Street Atlanta 30309 404.355.0341 www.tulaartcenter.com November/December 2011 | Simply Buckhead

November/December 2011 | Simply Buckhead

S IMP LY N OW L IT E RA RY

A tale to tell Everyday folks come out of their shells at Carapace

By H.M. Cauley

n the fourth Tuesday of each month, Buckhead resident Lynn Meyer gets engrossed in a good story. But she’s not glued to the TV or speedreading through a book. Instead, she’s sitting in Manuel’s Tavern in Virginia-Highland listening to real people tell real stories—without a script, an agenda or any professional training. “I’ve been going since the third session,” Meyer says. “It’s a place for people to come together to share personal stories and create a community as well.” Carapace is Atlanta’s own version of The Moth, a national storytelling organization with a broadcast that’s frequently aired on National Public Radio. In fact, Carapace began as a Moth affiliate, but artistic differences led to the spin-off that launched in February 2010. Carapace has monthly meetings with pre-announced themes; speakers come prepared to relate their experiences with topics ranging from science to revenge. Names are tossed into a hat and randomly selected. A typical night may feature a dozen people at the mike; over the last few months, the 90-minute sessions have attracted standing-room-only crowds. No one is more surprised by Carapace’s rapid success than organizers Randy Osborne, Joyce Mitchell and Lance Colley. “Our first show at Manuel’s had 75 people,” says Osborne. “Now, we regularly get 125, at least, who want to hear stories that are vulnerable and touching.” Many of the attendees also want to tell their own tales, even if they’ve never picked up a mike. “Most adults have an overwhelming fear of public speaking, but at our last event, we had 22 people get up,” Colley says. “Liquid courage may have something to do with it, but I think it’s more a testament to the environment we’ve fostered; it isn’t a karaoke bar with a hostile audience.

November/December 2011 | Simply Buckhead

Skyler Osborne and Jamie Osborne at a recent Carapace gathering. photos by Raquel Colley

Everyone is incredibly positive, even if someone fumbles or gets upset.” There have been times when stories were so moving that it wasn’t just the speaker who got teary-eyed, Colley says. “It’s not unusual to have someone come up later and say, ‘I had the exact same thing happen to me—you’re not alone.’ It’s that human contact that makes it work.” Carapace sessions are free, and organizers and speakers receive no compensation. The crowd that gathers does it for the emotional connections—including Meyer, who despite her faithful attendance for more than a year, has yet to find the courage to tell her own story. “I don’t have any problem talking, but I haven’t quite felt daring enough to craft a story,” she says. “I’m still a little bit nervous about that. But the Carapace motto is all about getting out of your shell, so who knows?”

CARAPACE Fourth Tuesday of every month Manuel’s Tavern 602 North Highland Avenue Atlanta 30307 404.525.3447

R E V I E W | F O O D I E J O U R NA L | W I N E | TA S T E M A K E R | R E S TAU R A N T S

Simply Delicious Restaurant Review “America had barely heard of fondue when Dante Stephensen discovered these butane campfires as a young Navy man touring the Alps around 1960. He went on to start Dante’s Down the Hatch, which he claims is the nation’s second-oldest fondue restaurant.” — Wendell Brock, “Lost in a sea of kitsch” Page 44

After cooking your meat in oil, choose from a number of dipping sauces for the perfect bite. Renee Brock November/December 2011 | Simply Buckhead

S IMP LY D EL I C IOUS RE VIE W

Dante Stephensen hams it up at his eponymous Buckhead restaurant. photos by Renee Brock

Lost in a sea of kitsch Dante’s Down the Hatch may be the best show in town By Wendell Brock

et’s sail away for the night, shall we? Let’s pretend to be pirates and captains. Let’s listen to cool jazz and dip into hot pots of bubbling fondue. Let’s get lost at sea on an 18th-century ship. Let’s hunt for treasure. Let’s have a drink. Let’s order a fancy bottle. Let’s toss Captain Hook overboard to the hungry crocodiles. Let’s go to Dante’s. Dante’s Down the Hatch, an Atlanta destination since 1970, isn’t so much a restaurant as an exploded theatrical set piece. Inside a nondescript, three-story building on Peachtree Road just south of Lenox Mall resides this astonishingly kitschy playhouse of the mind, created by its owner/namesake, Dante Stephensen, the reigning P.T. Barnum of Atlanta’s restaurant scene. Built to resemble some romantic ideal of a seaport village, circa the 1700s, the so-called “kid-friendly nightclub” contains a towering ship with billowing sails, a moat stocked with real crocodiles and a cozy lower-level chamber where a jazz band plays six nights a week. Inside this sunken lair, pleasure-seeking adults can roll cubes of bread in liquid cheese, take long intimate sips of wine and one another, and imagine themselves adrift with their own private band.

November/December 2011 | Simply Buckhead

America had barely heard of fondue when Stephensen discovered these butane campfires as a young Navy man touring the Alps around 1960. The Chicago native, son of a Danish mother and a Ukrainian father, would go on to start what he claims is the nation’s second-oldest fondue restaurant. An essential, one-of-a-kind local landmark on par with The Varsity and Pittypat’s Porch, the unsinkable Dante’s has endured two Underground Atlanta incarnations. (It finally closed its downtown deck in 1999.) A beacon to tourists and the just plain curious, the primordially dark, wood-paneled Buckhead flagship has been afloat since 1981, the scene of countless birthday parties and romantic rendezvous. Little about the menu of fondue dinners, cheese plates and signature frozen strawberry daiquiris in souvenir glasses has changed in four decades. Because the menu has been translated into 64 languages since the 1996 Olympics, reprinting it would be incredibly inconvenient and costly, Dante says with characteristic dryness. The owlish owner’s shtick—spinning yarns and greeting his clientele—hasn’t changed over the years, either. “I just happen to like to meet my customers,” he says. On a recent night, while I caught up with a colleague, I realized I was having a déjà vu moment. I didn’t recall ever visiting Dante’s, but the décor sure felt familiar. I must have gone to the old Underground location as a boy. The downstairs bunker was eerily quiet, so we decided to forgo the $7 on-ship cover

charge and sit upstairs, where we happily dunked apples, broccoli, cauliflower and bread into our pot of molten Emmenthal, Gruyère and “other Swiss cheeses” laced with wine. Not bad. Then came the boeuf, a half-pound of raw cow from the Australia/Tasmania region, which we gingerly fried in oil, along with yellow squash, mushrooms and red and green peppers. We ended the meal with a wedge of pecan pie à la mode and a brandy snifter called Nuts and Berries – a killer blender drink of frothy Frangelico, Chambord and vanilla ice cream. Dante, however, was nowhere to be seen. Whether it was the promise of another adult shake or the desire to see the lord master himself, I decided to return for a second visit. Down the outdoor gangplank and piers, past the cats and the tomb of Dante’s pet croc, Throckmorton, I sauntered in and took a seat at the bar. The lovely bartender pushed the votives toward me so I could see the menu. Famished, I wolfed down a cup of rich, meaty Tasmanian beef stew, heartily recommended by this super-attentive staffer, followed by an appetizer of crispy fried Chinese dumplings of beef and pork tenderloin. Next time, a bowl of stew. As if on cue, a large family group arrives to celebrate a birthday. Dante greets the 6-year-old in the group, who immediately announces that he celebrated his birthday at Alfredo’s (“the best spaghetti in the world!”). I almost fall off my barstool. Dante tells the little tyke to behave himself, and he’ll get to open the treasure chest and choose a toy. A brilliant game of manipulation, to be sure. Having no self-discipline, my prize to self is another boozy shake. This time, a Brandy Alexander, made with brandy, white crème de cacao and a boatload of vanilla ice cream. Floating out of the place, I stop to pick up a list of Dante’s favorite quotations, some of which I had noticed framed in the bathroom. “Oh, which one did you want?” asks the sweet hostess at the door, requesting a page number. Only Dante would create his very own Bartlett’s. Sensing my confusion, she makes a very nice “save,” collating a small souvenir booklet for me to take home—quotes on love, quotes by Cicero, a little essay on “Persistence.” Feeling a tad woozy, I think it must be getting late. But when I open the door, it is still light outside! Such is the curious magic of Dante’s, a place where time stops, in more ways than one.

Left: Dip everything from broccoli to bread in a pot of melted cheese at Dante’s Down the Hatch; right: The chocolate fondue at Dante’s requires two days advance notice and a minimum of six people. A tasty alternative is the pecan pie à la mode.

DANTE’S DOWN THE HATCH 3380 Peachtree Road N.E. Atlanta 30326 404.266.1600 www.dantesdownthehatch. com Entrées: $15.50-$31.50 Bottom line: More than the fondue dinners, one-of-a-kind décor is the draw at Dante’s. Left: Enjoy live music inside the in-restaurant ship; right: Swirling your veggies in cheese is part of the fondue experience. November/December 2011 | Simply Buckhead

November/December 2011 | Simply Buckhead

S IMP LY D EL I C IOUS

Foodie Journal | Culinary News & Notes By Jennifer Bradley Franklin

Stirring the pot

Sous vide made simple

San Marzano Italian Tomato Soup from Mad Mama Soups. Sarah B. Elmore

As though she took a play from the Simply Buckhead book of naming, Buckhead resident Cindy Kowalyk authored Simply Sous Vide (www.simplysousvidecooking.com). Kowalyk—a self-taught cook—demystifies the sous vide method, which involves vacuum sealing food into a bag and cooking it “low and slow” in a water bath. Since the method doesn’t require as high a temperature as grilling, baking or frying, it preserves a greater majority of vitamins and minerals in food. Kowalyk, who first learned the method under the instruction of Paces 88 Chef Mark Alba, was drawn to sous vide for many reasons—the health benefits, the fact that many of the recipes use only one pot, and the biggie: It makes it almost impossible to burn supper. “Dinner parties are now easy for me,” she quips. “Instead of toiling away in the kitchen I can enjoy the party with my guests.” Simply Sous Vide ($24.95, available at Cook’s Warehouse) goes where many others of the same genre do not, including recipes for cakes, pastas and casseroles. To try the recipe below without purchasing specialized sous vide equipment, you’ll need a vacuum sealer and a kitchen thermometer to keep the temperature consistent.

Chicken Margarita

my and Mark Smith did not set out to make, much less sell, soup. But seven years ago, the couple fell in love with a particularly compelling and silky one of the tomato variety while traveling in Napa Valley. In fact, they loved it so much that they packed an extra serving in a thermos to take home. Mark painstakingly attempted to recreate the flavor and texture in their Brookhaven kitchen, developing their now-signature San Marzano Tomato Soup. When the couple’s family and friends began clamoring for some to take home, Mad Mama Soups (www.madmamagourmet.com) was born. Incidentally, their brand’s curious name was a hybrid of Mark’s nickname, “Mad Mark,” and Amy’s official title at home, “Mama.” The soups are now easily found in Buckhead at Lucy’s Market, and Smith affectionately talks about them as though they are beloved children: The Spanish Gazpacho also “makes a

LUCY’S MARKET 102 West Paces Ferry Road Atlanta 30305 404.357.0052 www.lucysmarket.com

wicked Bloody Mary mix,” the PotatoLeek tastes like “a hot, liquid French fry,” and the Tuscan White Bean laced with truffle oil is a “decadent derivative of a hot cannellini bean dip we used to take to dinner parties.” Mad Mama also offers seasonal flavors like Roasted Garlic Pumpkin with maple syrup and cumin, and takes special orders as well. All of the ingredients are locally sourced when possible—some even from the Smiths’ backyard. The Smiths’ outfit is truly a family affair, with their children (Gabriel, 8, and Ava, 4) constant fixtures in the kitchen. Loving and learning how to make good, wholesome food? There’s nothing “mad” about that.

Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (1–1½ inch thick) 4 slices prosciutto 4 tablespoons pesto sauce 8 slices Provolone cheese, 4” diameter 6 medium tomatoes, sliced 4 tablespoons margarine, divided, for sauce 1 head garlic, thinly sliced ½ cup dry white wine 1 cup fresh basil, chiffonade Instructions: Heat a water bath (in a regular stockpot, with an accurate kitchen thermometer to keep the temperature very consistent) to 150°F. Place a slice of prosciutto on top of each chicken breast. Spread one tablespoon of pesto on top of each breast, followed by two slices of Provolone. Divide the tomatoes and place on top of the cheese. Place each breast in an individual bag. Remove air and vacuum seal. Place in the bath and cook for three hours. To make the wine sauce, heat one tablespoon of margarine over low heat. Add the sliced garlic and cook until lightly browned. Add the white wine and reduce by half. Add the remaining margarine to the pan. Remove the chicken from the bags and plate. Pour the sauce over the breasts and top with basil.

John and Jennifer Maley photo by Anne Richmond Boston

Southern foodies unite John and Jennifer Maley are unlikely food entrepreneurs. The Ansley Parkbased couple both have “day jobs”—he as a digital brand manager and she as an assistant director of development at Emory University. But they share a true passion for food indigenous to the South. Jennifer got hooked into the food community a couple of years ago when she started managing the blog for Buckhead-based Peachtree Road Farmers Market, mostly for fun. She realized that, other than attending a market in person, it was difficult to find unique, artisanal, locally produced food. Fast-forward to Labor Day of this year, when the Maleys launched Local Market South (www.localmarketsouth. com) to fill the void. The site offers products like Georgia-based High Road Craft ice cream, Merrilily Gardens relishes and pickles, Emily G’s jams, Pine Street Market cured meats and Sugar Coated Radical sweets. “Our goal at Local Market South is to connect consumers across the country to the amazing foods being produced here in the Southeast,” says Maley. “Whether it’s Southerners who’ve moved away missing foods from here, folks from here sharing food gifts with their friends and family elsewhere, or someone who is just looking to try the best of what the Southeast has to offer (which is a lot!), we want them to be able to see not just the foods available but the purveyors’ stories behind them.” Indeed, each purveyor has a bio page, written by Jennifer, so that guests can learn more about how and where their food is produced. If the buzz generated out of the gate is any indication, Local Market South is well on the way to meeting the Maleys’ goal of creating the go-to source for artisan foods produced in the South.

November/December 2011 | Simply Buckhead

S IMP LY D EL IC IOUS W IN E FE ATURE

Buckhead’s wine sleuth Doug Bryant sips and sells at Sherlock’s Wine Merchants

By Katie Kelly Bell

uring a recent visit to the new Buckhead location of Sherlock’s Wine Merchants, I chanced upon a glorious opportunity. I was exploring the spacious, nicely trimmed-out new digs (just doors down from the old space) when proprietor and lifelong Buckhead resident Doug Bryant offered me a taste from a 6.0L of a 1974 Clos du Val Cabernet Sauvignon. Apparently Bryant had been wrestling with a loudspeaker in his cellar when the equipment fell, damaging the wine’s bottle neck. His loss was everyone’s gain, as customers were invited to taste a rare and exquisite example of 37-year-old Napa Valley fruit. It’s just not every day one gets to taste a wine like that, for free. But this is Sherlock’s, and sharing wine is what Doug Bryant is all about. Bring a sense of adventure when you shop here, because you’re not likely to recognize most of the wines, and that’s the fun of it. In fact, Bryant estimates his store carries only 20 common broad-market wines seen elsewhere. His relationships with winemakers throughout Western Europe have been the singular factor in his ability to source artisanal wines from small producers. When he’s sleuthing out new wines, he considers price and value but, he notes, “They must always be of high quality and reflect typicity of the region.” Sherlock’s carries a global collection of wine, but Bryant’s specialty

is French appellations. Indeed, his French connections are legion. His personally curated J. Sanders collection from Burgundy is impressive for its breadth and quality; Sherlock’s Bordeaux collection is legendary and considered to be one of the largest in the Southeast. All of Bryant’s relationship building and experience has earned him the distinction of being the regional Maître de Commanderie de Bordeaux (essentially the president of a global organization devoted to education about and appreciation of Bordeaux wines), and he was also awarded the Ordre du Mérite Agricole, France’s highest award for those in the wine and food professions. Whether he’s taking clients on a guided tour through France or hosting a wine seminar in his store, Bryant is always cultivating relationships. As he explains it, “I love this work, largely because people who like wine are interesting people.” Even Bryant’s home cellar, which he inherited from his father, is testimony to his lifetime of friendships in the wine world. His most valuable bottles are the empty ones inscribed with the names of the people who enjoyed the wine with him. Impressive names too: Robert Mondavi, Bruno Prats. It’s a collection that emphasizes memory over pedigree, commemorating the people rather than the wine itself. And, really, as Bryant well knows, that’s what wine is all about.

Bryant’s Tips To keep everyday wine fresh after opening: Use a device to remove any oxygen (like Vacu Vin) and leave the bottle alone, away from direct sunlight. During hot summer months, put your opened wine in the fridge for storage.

Doug Bryant pours glasses of wine at his newly renovated store, Sherlock’s Wine Merchants Buckhead. photos by Renee Brock Sherlock’s Wine Merchants Buckhead 3401 Northside Parkway Atlanta 30327 404.233.1514 www.sherlocks.com

Chill out: Wine should be served at slightly cooler than room temp. Before opening, chill your reds for 30 minutes in the fridge. You will taste more layers of complexity and the subtle nuances that make a wine special. Hot wine often just tastes of alcohol.

November/December 2011 | Simply Buckhead

S IMP LY D EL I C IOUS TAST E MA KER

Whole gain One resourceful Buckhead resident turns celiac disease into a foodie opportunity

By Felicia Feaster

n 2006, while rowing competitively at the University of Georgia, Buckhead resident Lindsay Spencer was diagnosed with celiac disease. Defined as the inability to digest the protein in wheat, rye and barley, celiac disease affects roughly 1.3 percent of the population. For Spencer, who had always loved both food and the social dimensions of eating, the thought of cutting wheat from her diet seemed daunting. But what might be a burden for another diner, the thoughtful, cheerful 26-year-old Spencer—who works in new media at the Weather Channel— has transformed into an opportunity. In 2009 she launched her informative, nicely opinionated blog Celiac Eats (celiaceats.blogspot.com), which offers everything from Atlanta restaurant reviews to chef interviews and information about new gluten-free products. On a scale of 1-10 with 10 being the most challenging, how much of a daily struggle is it to be on your restricted diet? It varies by the day. If I had to average every day, probably for me now, about a 3. For the first two years of my diagnosis, I was probably around a 7 to an 8. What’s the food you miss the most? I really miss pizza—more the social interaction. I can make [gluten-free] pizza at home and it’s fabulous, but I miss being able to go to Fellini’s and have pizza with my friends.

Can you talk about some of your favorite gluten-free spots in the Buckhead area? Probably my two favorites are Kyma and Bistro Niko. Kyma’s chef took the time to go through the menu and write down everything that was gluten- and dairy-free for me on a sheet of paper. That means a lot to me. The ribs are probably my favorite at Kyma. And at Bistro Niko they do this French roast chicken that’s just simple and classic. I absolutely love it. Who are the Atlanta chefs you’d like to offer a special shout-out to for accommodating diners with dietary restrictions? At Empire State South, Hugh Acheson and his executive chef Ryan Smith are both just amazing. Even though Hugh is not in the restaurant every day, the culture he breeds to educate people about food and any kind of [food] intolerance and the efforts they go to to accommodate people blow me away. Have you discovered any favorite foods or ingredients you didn’t know you’d love? Pho, the Vietnamese soup, is like my chicken noodle soup. It has the most healing powers if you’re feeling blue. What do you love about Buckhead? I love all the trees—you have all of these massive trees intertwined with the big buildings. It’s very homey to me; it doesn’t feel like a big city.

November/December 2011 | Simply Buckhead

Lindsay Spencer enjoys a gluten-free meal of French roast chicken at Bistro Niko. Photo by Sara Hanna Photography - www.SaraHanna.com

S IMP LY D EL I C IOUS

Featured Restaurants | A sampling of great eats in and around Buckhead By Rachelle Hicks n Annie’s Thai Castle 3195 Roswell Road NW Atlanta 30305 404.264.9546 www.anniesthaicastle.com Located off Roswell Road, Annie’s Thai Castle is a quaint eatery, great for a weekday lunch or dinner any night of the week (except Mondays, when Annie’s is closed). Stop by one afternoon and sample tasty appetizers like mussels in a clay pot or the famous basil rolls, and follow it up with spicy basil eggplant or ginger pork. Or have a more adventurous night with the basil squid, three-flavor fish or mango shrimp entrée. For tamer diners, the trusty fried rice and Thai noodle dishes are simply delish. n Aria 490 East Paces Ferry Road N.E. Atlanta 30305 404.233.7673 www.aria-atl.com

Spotlight n Treehouse Restaurant and Pub 7 Kings Circle Atlanta 30305 404.266.2732 www.treehouseatlanta.com So, we’ve decided to spill the beans on “the hidden bar in Buckhead since 1986.” Sitting cozily amidst Buckhead’s lush greenery and exuding the aura of an adult treehouse, Treehouse Restaurant and Pub offers guests a casual and somewhat quirky dining experience. The restaurant caters to an eclectic crowd, from families who’ve been regulars for decades to adventurous youngsters looking for a fun, yet relaxing hub. The outside deck, kept toasty by heaters and decorated with vibrantly colored glass art, is a great spot for enjoying the chill of the season while sampling some beer-battered mushrooms with zesty horseradish sauce. If you choose to dine with your dog (yes, the patio is pet-friendly!), the laid-back staff won’t mind a bit. During these winter days, Treehouse’s intimate interior warms with a blazing hearth as guests dine on entrées like chicken stuffed with goat cheese, roasted red peppers and sweet chili sauce, or the five-spice seared yellowfin tuna topped with wasabi-soy and wakame seaweed. The menu also includes a diverse selection of pizzas, soups, salads, burgers and sandwiches. And don’t miss lobster night every Monday and Tuesday—get ’em steamed, stuffed or tossed in your favorite pasta!

“What’s for dinner tonight?” Well, if you’re dining at Aria, that’s quite a necessary question. The nightly changing menu continues to surprise as Co-Owner and Head Chef Gerry Klaskala enlivens upscale American cuisine with his avant-garde style. Signature favorites to look out for are the warm lobster cocktail and the Zinfandel-braised beef short ribs. And there’s no way you can leave without noshing on a delightfully sinful sweet made by Aria’s own pastry chef, Kathryn King. Cult favorites include warm chocolate cheesecake and Cross Creek tangerine panna cotta. n Café Agora 262 East Paces Ferry Road N.E. Atlanta 30305 404.949.0900 www.cafeagora.com Staying true to the relaxed, yet highly passionate Mediterranean way of life, Café Agora serves up the most mouthwatering of dishes in a casual, friendly atmosphere. The Greek-, Turkish- and Mediterranean-inspired plates range from traditional gyros and kebabs to specialty pies like spanakopita—a baked phyllo dough pie stuffed with tomatoes, sautéed onions and exotic herbs. There’s also the sinful sigara borek—deep-fried phyllo dough rolled around Turkish feta and parsley. For lighter options, Café Agora’s signature salad and appetizers like hummus, tabouli and baba ghanoush are sure to hit the spot. And ask for the bulbul yuvasi from the menu of homemade desserts—you won’t regret it!

Focusing on locally sourced Southern cuisine, Food 101 offers classic Georgia favorites with a neighborhood twist. The restaurant is open for Sunday brunch, lunch on weekdays and nightly dinners, making it the perfect spot for catching up with friends, slipping in a lunch break, or dining before a concert at nearby Chastain Park. The dinner menu includes enticing specialties like Georges Bank scallops and Georgia wild shrimp and grits, not to mention the ahi tuna tostadas appetizer. A must-try is the grilled Scottish salmon with English cucumber, wild arugula and peach-jalapeño salsa, drizzled with a sweet soy glaze—yum! n Horseradish Grill 4320 Powers Ferry Road Atlanta 30342 404.255.7277 www.horseradishgrill.com Horseradish Grill’s goal is to provide guests with an atmosphere reminiscent of yesteryear, when the pace along Powers Ferry Road was a trot and the simpler things in life were treasures. On weekends, start the day off right with a comfort breakfast of fresh blueberry pancakes, and any evening, enjoy the view of Chastain Park while dining on an entrée of seared duck breast, horseradish-crusted Florida grouper, or farm-fresh local vegetables. n Local Three Kitchen & Bar 3290 Northside Parkway N.W. Atlanta 30327 404.968.2700 www.localthree.com

The Treehouse patio. Rachelle Hicks

n Davio’s Northern Italian Steakhouse 3500 Peachtree Road N.E. Atlanta 30326 404.844.4810 www.davios.com After a long day of holiday shopping at Phipps Plaza, something elegant, classic and delectable at Davio’s Northern Italian Steakhouse might be the best gift you can give yourself—and you don’t even have to leave the mall to find it! Davio’s serves up the most tempting of breakfast, lunch and dinner dishes with a contemporary twist. The menu overflows with an array of plates from savory antipasti to classic

hearty entrées. There’s even a glutenfree lunch and dinner menu. For larger parties, Davio’s offers a wallet-friendly Sunday Family Dinner, where the meals are served family-style and the cost is only $20 per adult; $10 for children 12 and under. n Food 101 4969 Roswell Road Atlanta 30342 404.497.9700 www.food101atlanta.com Buttermilk fried chicken elegantly prepared by a dedicated farm-to-table chef—we dare you to name a Southern favorite that sounds more enticing.

Chefs Chris Hall and Todd Mussman, along with “Business Dude” Ryan Turner (AKA “The Local Three”), created this restaurant with locally sourced ingredients, quality service and zero pretention as their business staples. Local Three’s atmosphere is one of casual elegance—inviting and relaxing, yet sophisticated. Because of Local Three’s adherence to local ingredients, the menu changes seasonally, but a sample menu is available on the Web site. Favorite appetizers include crispy cornmeal-crusted oysters with Logan Turnpike grits, arugula and lemon; and the creamy celery-root soup with lobster, truffle and crispy sage. Entrée specialties include Maple Leaf Farms duck meatloaf with crushed fingerling potatoes, thin beans and tomato jam, and the grilled hanger steak with patatas bravas, Vidalia onion and charred tomato.

November/December 2011 | Simply Buckhead

n Siam Thai 123 Sycamore Street Decatur 30030 404.371.4333 www.siamthaidecatur.com

eat in / Take out

Free Wi-Fi

Nestled among the many delights of Decatur Square is the hidden gem that is Siam Thai. Why this place doesn’t have a line waiting outside the door every night is a mystery. The best way Delicious loDGe sPeciAliTY sANDWicHes to start off a meal at this inexpensive, FARM FResH sAlADs AND WRAPs • KiDs MeNu yet elegant spot is with the coconut HoMeMADe siDes • couNTeR culTuRe coFFees shrimp appetizer—succulent golden crustaceans served with homemade 3417 Roswell Road | Atlanta, GA 30305 | 404.842.5817 tangy-sweet marmalade. Adding aeslodgecafe@peachtreepres.org thetic value to the dining experience, Monday- Friday: 8:00am - 7:00pm | saturday: closed | sunday: 8:00am - 2:00pm the barbecue chicken satay comes with a creamy peanut dip—and a side of fire for crisping the meat. End the night with Siam’s awe-inspiring Thai donuts TheLodgeSimplyBuckheadAd.Final.indd 1 10/7/11 3:30 PM dipped in sweet milk. n Terra Terroir Grille & Wine Patio 3974 Peachtree Road Atlanta 30319 404.841.1032 www.terragrille.com Would you like some dinner with your wine? At Terra Terroir, the extensive wine list is the highlight of the evening, featuring gems like the Van Duzer Pinot Noir. And speaking of impressive, Terra Terroir is known for having one of the most picturesque patios in Buckhead (equipped with heaters for the winter), despite the restaurant’s location in a strip mall along Peachtree Road. Among the delectable entrées offered are favorites like vermentino-splashed sea bass, Key lime-chipotle shrimp with stone-ground grits, and buffalo meatloaf with red pepper coulis. Terra Terroir is also known for hosting exclusive wine dinners, the details of which can be found on their Web site. n Tin Lizzy’s Cantina 3639 Piedmont Road Atlanta 30305 404.846.6000 www.tinlizzyscantina.com Whether you’re looking for a place to relax after work or a venue to enjoy some live local music, Tin Lizzy’s Cantina is a prime Buckhead spot for unwinding and letting the good times roll. Start with a plate of appetizers—like fried pickles, homemade guac or two different kinds of salsa and queso—and rev up your appetite for the gourmet tacos that are known to make regulars out of first-time guests. If you’re planning to stay for a while, the “fall off the house” margarita is a specialty.

November/December 2011 | Simply Buckhead

n Truffles Café 3345 Lenox Road NE Atlanta 30326 404.364.9050 www.trufflescafe.com Headquartered in Hilton Head, Truffles Café just opened its first location outside South Carolina near Lenox Square Mall. This Buckhead eatery offers a diverse selection of small bites like soups, salads and sandwiches, as well as more decadent dishes like Cajun tilapia with homemade corn salsa, chicken pot pie and grilled grouper with a basil parmesan glaze—to name just a few. The café also boasts an extensive wine list—75 options total—featuring brands like Ferrari-Carano, Silverado, Duckhorn, and Coppola Director’s Cut; it also prepares its own specialty cocktails. Care for a Millionaire’s Manhattan (Woodford Reserve, sweet vermouth, bing cherry and honey) and a crab cake on your lunch break? We thought so.

November/December 2011 | Simply Buckhead

S I M P LY BUC K H E A D 速 | N OV E M B E R / D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 1

Cover Story Holiday Gem

#18

Black Friday Afternoon Tea After shopping all day, rest your feet at the St. Regis Atlanta.

Black Friday Afternoon Tea at the St. Regis Atlanta includes warm drinks, fresh scones and a $50 Saks Fifth Avenue gift card. November/December 2011 | Simply Buckhead

S IMP LY B UC K HE A D COVE R STO RY

Buckhead’s

Holiday gems

We uncover 28 of the season’s best secrets

By Giannina Smith Bedford

ollow the masses to the annual lighting of the Christmas tree—been there. Wait in long lines for a photo with Santa—done that. Why not skip the crowds this year with some under-the-radar holiday activities? Whether you’re seeking out a secret way to spot Santa or snagging a one-of-a-kind gift at an unbeatable price, Buckhead provides a ton of hush-hush holiday happenings that can take your annual celebration from festive to unforgettable.

SIP

RECIPES

]

The Wassail Cocktail

Tired of the season’s standard boozy eggnog? Here are a few Buckhead bars mixing up creative libations that will leave you wishing the season lasted all year long (and perhaps vocalizing this wish a bit too loudly).

Ingredients: 1 ounce rhum agricole 1 ounce Laird’s Straight Apple Brandy, bonded 1 ounce mulled apple cider shrub (recipe included) ½ ounce white port ½ ounce lemon zest

November/December 2011 | Simply Buckhead

Melissa Libby & Associates

n Add a little smoke to your holiday happy hour with Woodfire Grill’s Wassail Cocktail, inspired by the traditional English mulled punch of the same name. Mixing the flavors of Thanksgiving and Christmas with the smell of a fireplace (yes, we said a fireplace), Bar Manager M. Blake Morley says, “I have reached back into my sensory memories to create something that, to me, screams winter.” Rinsing the glass with a peaty, or smoky, scotch, Morley adds unique ingredients, like espresso beans and fresh ginger, to give this drink a nice little kick. “So there you have it. A nice winter cocktail with spice and sweetness, a bit boozy with a hint of smoke. Just like home,” he says. 404.347.9055. www.woodfiregrill.com

Instructions: Shake all ingredients except lemon zest in a cocktail shaker. Strain into a cocktail glass rinsed with a peaty scotch like Compass Box Peat Monster or Ardbeg and garnish with zest.

SHOP When you find yourself wandering the mall so aimlessly that you actually stop at the head massage kiosk—because, who knows, maybe your mother has always wanted a head massager—it’s time to take your gift buying in another direction. From original paintings created by Georgia artists to pampering gift “experiences” customized for recipients, there are a number of unique (and stress-free) ways to give a holiday gift from the heart that will be remembered for years to come.

Peruse jewelry by Liaung-Chung Yen and Rebecca Myers during TEW Galleries’ three-day trunk show December 1-3. TEW Galleries

n Nothing cuts the nip in the air like a warm serving of Irish coffee. Beginning November 1, you can indulge in Fadó Irish Pub & Restaurant’s delectable version of the tried-and-true seasonal beverage, which combines Bushmills Irish Whiskey, brown sugar, coffee and fresh whipped cream

Mulled Apple Cider Shrub Ingredients: 4 sticks cinnamon 2 tablespoons whole clove 1 small nub fresh ginger Zest of one orange 1 tablespoon espresso beans 1 cup Laird’s Apple Brandy ½ cup St. Elizabeth Allspice Dram 3 cups sugar 3 cups water 1 ½ cups apple cider vinegar Instructions: Mix all ingredients.

with cinnamon swirls. Luck of the Irish would be sipping this delicious concoction all winter long. 404.841.0066. www. fadoirishpub.com/atlanta n Sing “The Twelve Days of Christmas” drink-by-drink at The St. Regis Bar, The Wine Room and Paces 88—just don’t sing it too loudly. During the month of December, they serve cocktails themed after the holiday carol’s lines—think “Four Calling Birds” and its accompanying drink, “The Champenguin,” which ties into the hotel’s penguin-themed gingerbread house and is made of Veuve Clicquot Champagne and St. Germain elderflower liqueur. 404.563.7900. www. stregisatlanta.com/diningw n You don’t have to spend the holidays in London for a taste of the perfect Blueberry Scone. Simply head to the rooftop of Whiskey Blue at the W Buckhead and sip on the cocktail version of this pastry with the rest of the bar’s well-heeled clientele. Mixing muddled blueberries and Baileys Irish Cream, this proper British-inspired concoction will leave you improp-

RECIPE

Blueberry Scone Ingredients: 15 blueberries 1 ½ ounces Stoli Vanilla ½ ounce Baileys Irish Cream ½ ounce half and half Splash of simple syrup 2 pinches of cinnamon, divided 1 cinnamon stick Instructions: In a cocktail shaker, muddle blueberries and top with ice. Add remaining ingredients and shake. Strain into a glass with new ice and garnish with a cinnamon stick and another pinch of cinnamon as a dusting on top. (Tip: Blueberry pieces should come through into the glass, but the bulk will stay behind in the shaker.)

erly slurping for every last little bit. 678.500.3192. www. gerberbars.com/whiskeyblue-atlanta

n While the masses hover over glass cases at jewelry stores, you can peruse one-of-akind pieces created by artists Liaung-Chung Yen and Rebecca Myers during a three-day trunk show at the TEW Galleries. Try on Myers’ fine gold, bronze and silver, as well as her bamboo-inspired adornments, and delight at Yen’s small jewelry “sculptures.” Get a few holiday gifts out of the way or treat yourself to some sparkly items for your stocking. Don’t worry—you can always say they came from Santa. Jewelry ranges from $500 to $15,000. December 1, 6 to 9 p.m.; December 2, 1 to 4 p.m. and 6 to 9 p.m.; December 3, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. 404.869.0511. www.timothytew.com n Have years of unsuccessful searching given you permanent gift-giving phobia? Skip the panicked Christmas Eve shopping trip and employ the help of a professional at the holiday desk of the St. Regis Atlanta. Stop by the hotel’s lobby to design a custom experience for that special someone. Purchase gift cards in increments of $50, $100, $250, $500 and $1000 for pampering experiences like a champagne brunch (about $30) paired with facial (about $95$255) or a Bourbon Cocktail at The St. Regis Bar (approximately $12) and dinner at Paces 88 (about $65). If you’re in a rush, pick up the phone and do it all via the direct holiday hotline. 404.563.7797 www.stregisatlanta. com n Even though it’s winter, you can pretend it’s spring at Tootsies’ Lela Rose Spring 2012 Trunk Show. Taking place November 10 and 11, the event will showcase select pieces from the designer’s 2012 Spring line, including glamorous creations that follow Rose’s style of embellished fabrics and detailed separates, dresses and jackets. An extra bonus is the Belargo Trunk Show that will take place at the same time, allowing shoppers to pair glittering Belargo jewelry with each outfit. 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. 404.842.9990. www.tootsies.com n Stop by The Peachtree Road Farmers Market on Nov. 26 and Dec. 17 for the Holiday Artist Markets, which showcase the handmade creations of 25 artists (on top of produce from 50 farmers and food vendors) to help you with a bit of holiday shopping. 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. 404.365.1078. www. peachtreeroadfarmersmarket.com

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SURPRISE Let’s be honest: Most holiday activities we plan and plot are for the kids, but fighting crowds for a fleeting glimpse of Santa is no way to celebrate the Christmas spirit. Rather than sticking with the common—and often stressful—game plan, go out on a limb and venture with the little ones to uncover new ways to enjoy some holiday fun. n You can skip the annual performance of “The Nutcracker” (phew!), but still delight the kids with a taste of this yearly tradition at the Ritz-Carlton Buckhead’s Children’s Nutcracker Tea. Complete with hot chocolate and holiday sweets, the event also features young dancers from “The Nutcracker” performing vignettes from the famed ballet, as well as caroling by the Dickens Singers and an appearance by Santa. What’s more, children are invited to decorate a holiday cookie to take home and add to Santa’s Christmas plate. December 19 and 20. Seatings at 11 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. $59 per adult, $47 per child. Reservations required. 404.240.7035. www. ritzcarlton.com n Have an outdoor winter adventure with the kids during Blue Heron Nature Preserve’s Winter Bird Walk for Families. Walk the wintry trails through the woods with binoculars, watching and listening for feathered creatures above. Atlanta Audubon Education Director Nikki Belmonte will lead the bird walk, discussing common Georgia birds that might be spotted. Mini-adventurers will have the chance to make a craft, such as a birdseed pinecone or treat, to take home for their backyard birds. The walk also includes a story time featuring the children’s book Stranger in the Woods with hot chocolate and sugar cookies. December 3, 10 to 11:30 a.m. Free for Blue Heron and Atlanta Audubon members and $25 per child for non-members. 404.345.1008. www.bhnp.org n With more than 1 million energyefficient bulbs strewn across its 30-acre grounds, the Atlanta Botanical Garden’s Garden Lights, Holiday Nights is an attraction that requires a plan of action— particularly when traveling with the kids. To ensure you get the most out of your visit, follow these handy insider tips:

Two small “angels” visit the Atlanta Botanical Gardens for its Garden Lights, Holiday Nights attraction.

•

At the start of the tour, turn right toward the Canopy Walk rather than left toward most of the lights. This is the best way to avoid crowds and save the top-notch displays for last. • Head to Alston Overlook—the highest point in the Garden— for a photo op and great vantage point overlooking the Levy Parterre’s Italian Limestone Fountain, Crepe Myrtle Allée and Great Lawn. • Take refuge in the Fuqua Orchid Center to warm up from the winter chill and enjoy the indoor light displays inside the adjacent Conservatory. November 19 to January 7 (except December 24 and 31). Tickets are $18.95 for adults and $12.95 for children 3-17. Garden members are $14.95 for adults and $9.95 for children 3-17. 404.876.5859. www.atlantabotanicalgarden.org n For a global holiday experience, visit Atlanta International School’s German Christmas Market, “Weihnachtsmarkt.” Children can have their photos taken with St. Nicholas, craft Christmas decorations and listen to German fairy tales while parents munch on sizzling bratwursts, sip on spicy Christmas cider and decide which advent wreath made of fresh pine leaves and decorations to purchase. Kids and adults can also take part in beeswax candle dipping and watch as their candle creation is formed, dip by dip. December 3, 12 to 6 p.m. 404.841.3840. www.aischool.org n Did you forget to sign the kids up for “Breakfast with Santa” at Buckhead Diner months in advance? Shhh … don’t fret, as you might be able to catch a glimpse of ol’ Saint Nick across the street at Corner Café, where he takes an early meal with Buckhead’s firefighters before heading to Buckhead Diner. Stop by December 10 and 11 around 8 a.m. as Santa hands out candy canes to good boys and girls before hopping on a fire truck for a ride to Buckhead Diner. 404.240.1978. www.buckheadrestaurants.com/corner-café n Have some last-minute shopping to do at Lenox Mall, but need the kids occupied for a half hour? While you peruse bed shams and gifts at Pottery Barn Kids, drop the kiddos off for Story Time Tuesdays from 11 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Kids of all ages are invited to join

November/December 2011 | Simply Buckhead

Children visit with Santa before he rides a fire truck to Buckhead Diner.

the fun and receive an official Book Club Passport at their first story time. After attending five story times (and getting five stamps in their passport), they get a special gift of $10 off in-store merchan-

dise. It doesn’t get much better than free babysitting and discount shopping all in one. 404.442.9122. www.potterybarnkids.com

SHINE With parties and potlucks crowding your holiday calendar, how to find time to primp for all your appearances? Leave the beautification rituals to these Buckhead professionals—you don’t have to have a celebrity’s budget. n Kill two birds with one stone by mixing happy hour with beauty hour. Enjoy a $35 blowout (choose from styles named after cocktails, like the Mai Tai and the Cosmopolitan) at the newly opened Dry Bar while sipping on champagne and special holiday libations. This new addition to the Buckhead scene is modeled after a traditional bar, with tufted Italian chairs lined up along a glossy white bar. Clients don’t watch the blowout in progress and wait for a big reveal at the end. 404.382.5310. www.thedrybar.com

n Let a MAC Cosmetics makeup artist revamp your holiday look— for free! Stop by the Lenox Square shop (connected to Macy’s) and if they aren’t too busy, they will fix you up and share tips and techniques on how to recreate their makeup magic at home. Have them focus on one key feature or even give you some snazzy false eyelashes before you head to your holiday party. Calling ahead is recommended. 404.231.2800. www. maccosmetics.com n For gentlemen wanting to refresh their looks for 2012, Kings of Atlanta Grooming Lounge and Spa is the spot. Men can choose to undergo everything from a signature haircut and wardrobe consultation to a manly and meticulous hand grooming and deep-tissue massage. As part of the holiday

facial and deluxe hand and foot detail for $75 and The Crown signa ture haircut plus a mini-facial and shoulder massage for $25 (normally a $50 value). 404.816.1506. www.thekingsofatlanta.com

Get a free makeup lesson at MAC Cosmetics in Lenox Square Mall. Courtesy MAC Cosmetics

rush, the man-centric spa will be running specials like a half-hour

n Make an appointment to have your hair styled on the cheap by a burgeoning hair stylist at Aveda Institute Atlanta, which moves into its new digs in Brookwood Hills just in time for the holiday rush. Starting December 1, the school of beauty (and home to some of the city’s rising hair stars) in South Buckhead will also extend its operating hours to six days a week until 8 p.m. Haircuts begin at $15 and facials begin at $20. If you’re looking to pass on the gift of beauty to others (this is the season of giving, after all), purchase a $100 gift certificate between November 1 and December 24 and get a free $20 gift card. 404.649.7119. www. avedainstitutesbb.com

A new arrival to Buckhead’s beauty scene, Dry Bar offers blowouts and cocktails to help clients get party-ready.

Continued >> November/December 2011 | Simply Buckhead

S IMP LY B UC K HE A D COVE R STO RY

Snatch up original art during the Off-the-Wall Pin Up Show + Sale at the Museum of Contemporary Art of Georgia.

SAVE No matter how hard you try not to go overboard, it seems the holidays always cut a hole in your pocket and leave you picking up nickels and dimes in the New Year. Lucky for you, we can reveal a number of low-profile Buckhead bargains you probably haven’t heard of, so this year you don’t have to skimp on gift giving … or fun. n All that is standing between you and that must-have piece of modern art is four pushpins and

$500 (or less). At The Museum of Contemporary Art of Georgia’s (MOCA GA) Off-the-Wall Pin Up Show + Sale, holiday shoppers can choose from a variety of affordable works from seasoned and emerging Georgia artists. The art is displayed unframed, un-matted and hanging from four pushpins, allowing buyers to easily snatch their favorite pieces and transport them home. Each of the event’s 300 participating artists is invited to hang one piece of art priced under $500, so arrive on time— works go on sale promptly at 6 p.m. to the first person willing to pay the stated price. November 17, 6 to 9 p.m. Cost of attending is a MOCA GA membership fee of $25 for individual artists and $35 for non-artists. 404.367.8700. www. mocaga.org

n You can finally class up your holiday floral display with the elegance of white phalaenopsis orchids. During November and December, Buckhead Blooms, located in the heart of Buckhead at the corner of Peachtree Road and West Paces Ferry, is selling these beautiful flowers (normally priced at $125 for a single-stem plant) for $75. 404.266.2400. www.buckheadblooms.com n You don’t need a 10-foot-tall sculpture to make an artistic statement. Pass on the appreciation of small works of art by purchasing a mini-masterpiece—none larger than 8 inches in any direction—at Little Things Mean a Lot Show and Sale at Swan Coach House. The sale showcases more than 300 pieces in all mediums by more

than 100 Georgia artists, including Buckhead residents Ben Jennings and Marc Granberry. The work of young emerging artists like Melissa Faduski will also make an appearance at the event. The art comes at a bargain price—most of the original work is $500 and under—and buyers are allowed to take home purchases on the spot. The sale’s opening reception is November 17 from 6 to 8 p.m., with the show continuing until January 7. 404.266.2636. www.swancoachhouse.com n Thanks to Whole Foods Market, you can enjoy an easy—and cheap—meal. Visit the Buckhead grocer on November 11 and join in-the-know shoppers for a oneday sale on whole raw chickens, offered at 99 cents per pound. The turkeys might be jealous, but at least your wallet will be pleased. 404.324.4100. www.wholefoodsmarket.com/stores/buckhead n Pick up a one-of-a-kind masterpiece at a bargain price at the Chastain Arts Center Holiday Show and Sale showcasing a variety of handmade media created by students and instructors. From pottery and jewelry to handmade silk scarves and paintings, this exhibit acts as the Center’s largest fundraiser and even includes a surprise visit from Santa Claus himself at the opening reception on December 2, from 6 to 8:30 p.m. The sale continues Monday through Saturday until December 16. 404.252.2927. www.ocaatlanta. com

Nothing’s expensive—or larger than eight inches—at the Little Things Mean a Lot Show and Sale at Swan Coach House. Terry Kearns

November/December 2011 | Simply Buckhead

Purchase a phalaenopsis orchid for less at Buckhead Blooms.

SAVOR You don’t have to sweat over a stove to ensure a successful holiday. After all, you should enjoy the festive season just as much as your guests. Stop by one of these Buckhead haunts for a relaxing bite or a totally prepared holiday meal: n While browsing the racks at Neiman Marcus for your New Year’s outfit, an intense pang of hunger hits. You begin to worry that you’ll have to break into the granola bar in your purse or risk fighting the holiday crush in the food court. Lucky for you, a hidden gem often overlooked by starved shoppers is located right below your feet. NM Café, a gourmet shopping respite on the lower level of Neiman Marcus in Lenox Square Mall, comes to the rescue with a delectable menu that includes items like she-crab soup and roast chicken as well as free popovers—not to mention a calming ambiance removed from the mall crowd. The café also hosts a breakfast with Santa for little ones on December 10 and 17. Hours are Mondays through Saturdays, 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.; closed Sundays. Extended holiday hours (November 25 through December 30) are Saturdays 11:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sundays 12 to 3:30 p.m. 404.279.5850. www.neimanmarcus.com n If you’re looking to change up your Thanksgiving menu this year but would rather “try before you buy,” stop by Whole Foods Market in Buckhead on November 12 for a Taste of Thanksgiving. Sample a smorgasbord of food items, including appetizers, side dishes, entrées and desserts, to help you plan your innovative new menu and ensure you get exactly what you want. Don’t forgo a delectable bite of the Pumpkin Pumpkin Mousse Pie, a traditional pumpkin pie with a layer of fluffy pumpkin mousse on top. If you decide you want to order an entire meal for the big day, the Thanksgiving dinner for eight people—including everything from a 10- to 12-pound turkey and sides like green bean casserole—costs $89. 1 to 3 p.m. 404.324.4100. www.wholefoodsmarket.com/ stores/buckhead n You can’t do it all—and you don’t have to! Henri’s Bakery holiday meals on-the-go provide everything from turkey (about $65) and

macaroni and cheese ($24 for 4 pounds) to an entire holiday dinner spread for six to eight people for about $160, depending on the size of the turkey. This 80-year-old Buckhead mainstay also creates gingerbread houses ($60 to $65) and one-of-a-kind centerpiece cakes. One of their most popular is the croquembouche, a Christmastree-shaped French pastry made of tiny cream puffs and garnished with sugar ($85). Although the bakery stocks a variety of premade items, it is best to order at least a week in advance to ensure your holiday meal ends up on the table in time for your guests’ arrival. 404.237.0202. www.henrisbakery. com n In light of the grueling shopping experience that is Black Friday, the St. Regis Atlanta is hosting a Black Friday Afternoon Tea aimed at pampering shopaholics who have been at it since 5 a.m.— and those who just want to share in the day’s traditional shopping spirit. Sit back with a glass of sparkling wine and snack on freshly prepared English scones. Along with these gastronomic goodies, attendees receive a $50 Saks Fifth Avenue gift card in case they want to continue the shopping marathon. November 25 from 2 to 5 p.m. $88 per person. Reservations are highly recommended. 404.563.7910. www.stregisatlanta.com n Leave it to Buckhead lunch spot Souper Jenny to put a healthy (and tasty) twist on a traditional holiday feast with its “Everything but the Bird” Thanksgiving take-out. The on-the-go offerings include sides like gluten-free, vegetarian wild-rice-and-quinoa stuffing with apricots and toasted hazelnuts ($15 per quart) and Jenny’s pumpkin butternut squash soup topped with crispy prosciutto and crushed amoretti cookies ($10 per quart). Your guests will think you slaved all day in the kitchen! Orders, which have a $60 minimum, must be placed by 5 p.m. on November 18 and picked up between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. on November 23. 404.237.7687. www.souperjennyatl.com

Munch on shopping-themed treats during Black Friday Afternoon Tea at the St. Regis Atlanta.

Sample holiday ham at Whole Foods Market in Buckhead on November 12. Courtesy of Whole Foods Market

November/December 2011 | Simply Buckhead

PA I D A DV E R T I S E M E N T

P E T PAG E

Frolicking with Fido By Giannina Smith Bedford

Yedidah Glass and Magrick Lewis founded Frolic Canine Services LLC in 2004 with the goal to help busy pet parents juggle their many responsibilities. By providing one-on-one pet sitting, dog walking and in-home pet care, Frolic is allowing pet parents to spend more quality time with their pups and be worry free when away from home. Serving Sandy Springs, Dunwoody, Buckhead, Midtown, as well as some neighborhoods in East Cobb and Roswell, this pooch-friendly company prides itself on making life easier and pets happier by giving them more time to, well, frolic! Simply Buckhead recently chatted with company founder Yedidah Glass about her inspiration in starting the business and mission to provide top-notch pet care. How did Frolic get started? Frolic was founded in 2004 after the passing of my beloved Shetland Sheepdog, Corky. I realized that my true calling was working with animals and I wanted to help give them as much joy as they give to me. What prompted you to start the business? I saw a huge void in what was being offered in the way of inhome pet care. If I were going out of town, or just needed someone to walk my dog every day, I saw that options were limited, as was the knowledge of the companies providing the service. We did a lot of research and became very serious about being the premier in-home pet care provider in the area.

November/December 2011 | Simply Buckhead

What is Frolic’s most popular service? Our most popular service is the daily visit. Whether it’s a dog, cat or guinea pig, we feed, water, walk (if applicable!), and love your fur baby, as if he or she is our own. What is unique about Frolic that our readers should know? We listen! With a background as a corporate concierge to highlevel executives, we provide a standard of service that is far beyond what one would expect. We are always available to our clients. We are knowledgeable. We are professionals and take our responsibilities very seriously. We also have ways of making your pet smile! Do you have any pets? I have two rescues: Niki, who is a 10-year-old Chihuahua mix (and our benevolent queen) and Fox, an 8-year-old male Shiba Inu mix. They are the apples of my eye. What do you like best about being in the pet industry? I take pride in the fact that we are really helping people fully care for their pets’ physical and mental well being. We make a difference and we are honored to do so. Any plans for future expansion? Perhaps. I like that we provide a very personal touch and have such close relationships with our clients and their fur kids. We are small by design.

S I M P LY BU Z Z | S I M P LY C H A R I TA B L E | S I M P LY S C E N E

Simply Happening Spotlight Chastain Arts Center Monthly Adult Painting Parties December 9 Chastain Arts Center 135 West Wieuca Road N.W. Atlanta 30342 404.252.2927 www.ocaatlanta.com

Add an artistic edge to your night out at Chastain Arts Center’s monthly adult painting parties. Open to anyone 21 and older—from the novice paint-by-numbers type to modern-day Picassos—this social event invites attendees to combine art with bites and libations. Each party pays homage to art history through a famous artistic style, technique or artist’s vision. Highlighting the work “Ga-

briel Trumpeting Angel,” the December 9 event takes place from 7 to 9 p.m. and surrounds the painting technique inspired by Howard Finster, a Georgiaborn folk artist. Best known for his evangelical works, the self-taught artist uses bright colors to bring a variety of subjects to life, from historical figures to pop culture icons like Elvis Presley to religious images. Led step-by-step by a Chastain Arts Center instructor, painting party students will create a masterpiece similar to the famous one being highlighted. At the end of the evening, participants take their works of art home. Chastain Arts Center provides the art supplies, and attendees are welcome to bring snacks and drinks. Cost is $35 per person and reservations are required.

Each adult painting party is focused on an artistic style, technique or artist’s vision.

November/December 2011 | Simply Buckhead

S IMP LY HA PP E N ING

Simply Buzz | Events, exhibits, galas and more By Giannina Smith Bedford

The Circle Celebrates Arts and Antiques November 4 Miami Circle Foxglove Antiques & Galleries 699 Miami Circle Atlanta 30324 404.233.0222 www.miamicircleshops.com

Miami Circle, the nucleus of Buckhead’s arts and antiques scene, is hosting a welcome party for its new residents— Anne Irwin Fine Art, Thomas Deans Fine Art, Matre Gallery, Pryor Fine Art, Steve Newman Fine Arts and Anne Hathaway Designs have all relocated to the area in the last year. From 5 to 9 p.m., Miami Circle will come alive with special events, food and drinks at select merchants, including spots like Foxglove Antiques & Galleries, where patrons can enjoy live music and margaritas. Park once and stroll the streets ablaze with tiki torches or ride the complimentary trolleys transporting patrons from shop to shop. Terrific Thursdays in Decatur Thursdays in November and December Decatur City Hall 509 N. McDonough Street Decatur 30030 404.370.4100 www.visitdecaturgeorgia.com

Skip the mall and head out for some holiday shopping in downtown Decatur on Terrific Thursdays. Stroll the picturesque streets strewn with holiday lights and enjoy shopping and dining deals at some of Decatur’s most popular stops. Participating businesses will stay open late and offer snacks and refreshments to visitors. Santa joins the fun in December, visiting shops and restaurants within the city limits. On December 15 at 7 p.m., Terrific Thursday will also include a warm bonfire and tasty marshmallow roast.

Benefits of Laughter Gala November 10

Chefs in the City November 17 and December 8

St. Regis Atlanta 88 West Paces Ferry Road Atlanta 30305 678.686.5905 www.skylandtrail.org

Bloomingdale’s Lenox Square 3393 Peachtree Road N.E. Atlanta 30326 404.495.2800 www.atlantachefs.eventbrite.com

Laugh until it hurts at the 14th Annual Benefits of Laughter Gala, taking place at the St. Regis Atlanta. Kicking off with a reception at 6:30 p.m. and followed by a seated dinner, the event features comic relief from Southern icons Vince and Barbara Dooley, who will entertain with tales of Georgia football and more. Since 1998, this funny evening has helped clients of Skyland Trail, a Buckhead-based mental health treatment facility for adults, recover from mental illness by raising money for the Financial Aid Fund, which assists those who otherwise couldn’t afford to complete treatment. The lowest level of sponsorship for the benefit is $1,200, which includes two seats.

Mix gourmet food and fashion with a little philanthropy at Bloomingdale’s Chefs in the City event. The monthly celebration combines a guided tasting of artisan wines, a cooking demonstration by one of Atlanta’s top chefs and a preview of the latest in home and fashion décor—essentially indulging all your vices. What’s more, a portion of the proceeds benefits nonprofit organization Open Hand. The November event features “Top Chef” contestant Hector Santiago of Pura Vida and Super Pan Latino; December welcomes Chef Heather Hurlbert of Cherokee Town and Country Club, who will impress with creative holiday confections. Advance tickets are $25 and a limited number of tickets may be purchased at the door for $35. Guests must be 21 and older to attend.

Soul Celebration: A Gala Benefiting St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital November 11 JW Marriott Atlanta Buckhead 3300 Lenox Road Atlanta 30326 800.654.8563 www.stjude.org/soulcelebration

Support St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and hang out with some celebrity moms at Soul Celebration, taking place at the JW Marriott Atlanta Buckhead. Loraine Smith (mother of Grammy award-winning singer Ne-Yo), Aliyah “Mama Pain” Najm (mother of T-Pain) and Jacida Carter (mother of Lil Wayne) will take part in the evening’s festivities, which include a live performance by Ne-Yo. The event begins at 6 p.m. with a cocktail reception and silent auction followed by dinner. Individual tickets are $250 and tables for 10 can be purchased for $2,500. Proceeds benefit St. Jude, the only pediatric cancer research center where families never pay for treatment not covered by insurance.

November/December 2011 | Simply Buckhead

25th Annual Beaujolais Nouveau—Beyond Beaujolais November 19 The Defoor Centre 1710 Defoor Avenue N.W. Atlanta 30318 404.997.6800 (FACC–Atlanta) www.facc-atlanta.com

Join the French American Chamber of Commerce–Atlanta for Beyond Beaujolais, an event celebrating the annual release of the Beaujolais Nouveau red wine produced in the Beaujolais region of France. Guests will be enticed with a gastronomical tour of France and the Southeastern United States, including food, live entertainment and wine. Vintages from Bordeaux, Burgundy, Alsace and the States will be flowing along

with French Champagne and, of course, the signature Beaujolais Nouveau. Held at the Defoor Centre from 7 p.m. to 12 a.m., advance tickets are $45 for members and $55 for nonmembers. Tickets will also be sold at the door for $60. Decatur Candlelight Tour of Homes December 2 and 3 Oakhurst Community Renfroe Middle School (suggested parking) 220 West College Avenue Decatur 30030 404.371.8386 www.decaturtourofhomes.com

Tour the interiors of nine Decatur homes at the 28th Annual Holiday Candlelight Tour of Homes, taking place Friday and Saturday from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. Benefitting the Mary Miller Decatur Youth Fund, the Decatur Preservation Alliance and the Decatur Education Foundation, the event highlights everything from a renovated bungalow to a 1930s brick craftsmanstyle home in the Oakhurst neighborhood. Also included in the tour are stops at the Clairemont Holiday Marketplace and Café at Clairemont Elementary. Tickets are $20 in advance and $25 at the door; a free shuttle service will be available to transfer attendees from home to home. Places of Memory and Dreams Opening Reception December 16 The Museum of Contemporary Art of Georgia 75 Bennett Street Atlanta 30309 404.367.8700 www.mocaga.org

Visit the Museum of Contemporary Art of Georgia on Bennett Street for the opening reception of Places of Memory and Dreams, a solo exhibition of Atlanta-based artist Katherine Mitchell. The reception will take place from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., with the exhibit officially opening on Dec. 17 and continuing through March 31, 2012. Mitchell, who’s had more than 20 solo exhibitions, is a re-

tired senior lecturer in drawing and painting at Emory University, where she taught for more than 20 years. Her work has been collected by numerous museums, including the High Museum, MOCA GA, the Carlos Museum, the Speed Museum, and the Arkansas Art Center. Opening receptions are free to members and U.S. Military with IDs, $5 for nonmembers and $1 for students. Annual Christmas 5K in Virginia Highland

December 17 Fire Station #19 1063 N. Highland Avenue Atlanta 30306 404.327.7738 www.rungeorgia.com/vahichristmas.html

Put on your Santa hats and tie bells to your running shoes for the Annual Christmas 5K in Virginia Highland. Kicking off at 9 a.m. at Fire Station #19, the fun-filled race winds through the quaint streets of the Va-Hi neighborhood before finishing at Morningside Presbyterian Church. All participants receive a Santa hat and post-race fruit and goodies, as well as a long-sleeved cotton shirt. Keep your eye out for skinny Santa as he runs by giving out goodies. Race entry is $25 if postmarked by Nov. 1 and $30 after that date or until race closes.

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Left: It’s the Journey Executive Director Kimberly Goff, Georgia First Lady Sandra Deal and Simply Buckhead Publisher Joanne Hayes; below: John Mullin, Sabine Mullin, Jason Ellis, Tonya Lancaster and Tony Cephus.

n Day One of the 2011 Atlanta 2-Day Walk for Breast Cancer, nearly 700 walkers passed through Buckhead during their 30-mile route. The flagship event of It’s The Journey, Inc., the 2-Day Walk raises money for breast cancer organizations in Georgia. This year’s walk netted nearly $700,000. For more information, visit www.2daywalk.org.

Photos by Sara Hanna Photography - www.SaraHanna.com Left: Joan Kelly and Marcia Strickland; below: Susan Russell Alexander, Erin Etheredge and Elizabeth Fine

Above: Nidia Walkup, Debra Schreibman, Kim Jarvis and Becky Thompson

Above: Hailey Morris, Judy Morris, Shireen Wright, Robin Neas and Amy Ballou Right: Signs in memory of those who lost their battles with breast cancer lined the driveway of the Governor’s Mansion.

November/December 2011 | Simply Buckhead

S IMP LY HA PP E N ING S IM P LY SCENE

photo courtesy www.ladera.com

Taste of the sea A selection of appetizers from Ladera Resort in St. Lucia, featured on pages 16-17.

November/December 2011 | Simply Buckhead