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News for Restaurants in Atlanta
June 2012 Archive

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RESTAURANT NEWS

Openings

The Pecan (College Park) chef-owner Tony Morrow is opening his own barbecue operation to be called Tony Morrow's Real Pit BBQ. Son Devaughn will operate as pit master at the new venue. Tony Morrow's Real Pit BBQ, 3807 Main St., College Park, GA 30337, no phone available.
 
Longtime Grecian Gyro customers Steve Van Wey and his sister Christine and her husband Joe Dolgetta have opened the fourth location and first franchise of this locally owned and family-run chain. Monday, June 25, was the establishment's first day of operation in Johns Creek, quite far removed from its home base stores in Hapeville, Forest Park and Tucker. Founder Nick Koulouris, a native of Greece, and his two sons, George and Pano, operate the original three. The menu is the same, with sausage gyros and Greek potatoes, among other treats. This outpost, though, is located in a shopping center, so there is no drive-thru. Lunch & Dinner daily. Grecian Gyro, Walk of Johns Creek Shopping Center, 11035 Medlock Bridge Rd., Ste. 50, Johns Creek, GA 30097, 770-559-9789.
 
The Optimist has opened in Atlanta (Photo by Andrew Thomas Lee) Chef/owner Ford Fry's father suggested the name for his son's latest establishment (Ford also owns JCT. Kitchen & Bar and No 246 Restaurant) because it refers to a small, single-handed sailing dinghy intended to be used by children up to the age of 15. The understated quality of the name along with the forthright meaning of the word appeals to Fry. Fry also likes the idea of being an optimist about the "day's catch" and "catching the next big fish." The Oyster Bar at The Optimist is adjacent to The Optimist and is a more casual "fish camp" style venue featuring a raw bar and an outdoor patio with a two-hole putt-putt golf course. Coastal living defines the theme and feel of the restaurant with a focus on seafood, although such dishes as roasted organic chicken will also be available. Wines come from coastal wine regions, another way to support the theme. Lunch & Dinner daily. The Optimist, 914 Howell Mill Rd. NW, Atlanta, GA 30318, 404-477-6260 .
 

News Bytes

Fleming's Summertime Sunday Prime Rib Special
Fleming's Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar is offering its prime rib dinner on Sundays through September 2 for $29.95 per person plus tax and gratuity. The three-course dinner includes a choice of salad, Fleming's prime rib, a side dish, and a dessert. For this special, Fleming's is highlighting the B.R. Cohn North Coast Silver Label Cabernet Sauvignon for $40 a bottle. Fleming's Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar, 4501 Olde Perimeter Way, Atlanta, GA 30346, 770-698-8112.
 
Renovated Hottie Hawg's Smokin' BBQ Reopens July 4
Hottie Hawg's Smokin' BBQ closed for a quick renovation after Memorial Day, and plans to reopen with a bang on July 4. Some changes will include serving all dishes in cast iron skillets and eliminating the printed menu in favor of chalkboard listings so each day can reflect what's fresh in the market and what changes seasonally. Otherwise, much remains the same, and chef Matthew Moseley continues as pit master and all-around guy in the kitchen. Hottie Hawg's Smokin' BBQ, 2057 Main St. NW, Atlanta, GA 30318, 404-794-5224.
 

Chef Shuffle

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Closings

CLOSED FOR GOOD
Take your taste buds on a walk down memory lane! Check out our exclusive closed restaurant database for Atlanta to virtually visit your favorite dining spots from the past. Bazzaar, R.I.P.

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CULINARY EVENTS
Want to
learn to cook? Try new dishes? Meet a foodie friend for fun? Check out our compilation of culinary events in your area.

View our calendar of Wine Dinners & Tastings in Atlanta

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VALENTINE'S DAY WINES

Add wine to the celebration of love, curated by GAYOT´s Wine & Spirits Editor.

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CHAMPAGNE COCKTAILS

For a rosé bubbly Valentine's Day celebration.

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GAYOT'S RESTAURANT AWARDSOver the years, we have been electing restaurants to be on GAYOT's Yearly Restaurant Awards.

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