Simply Buckhead January/February 2021

January/February 2021 ISSUE 76 • FREE Serving Buckhead, Brookhaven, Sandy Springs, Chamblee and Dunwoody

YOUR GUIDE TO LIVING WELL IN ATLANTA

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SIMPLY BUCKHEAD® |

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021

53

48

16

Contents

32

53 COVER STORY

10 Editor’s Letter [ SIMPLY NOW ]

13 News: New Bistro in Buckhead Neighborhood gathering spot The Chastain tickles tastebuds

16 Travel Near: A Couple’s Retreat Highlands, North Carolina, provides the kid-less getaway of COVID-year dreams

Photos: 53: Monica Naranjo, 48, 60: Joann Vitelli, 32: Brad Mitchell

60

26 Pets: Homeward Bound What you should consider before “returning” a pet

Modern Day Makeovers FIVE LOCAL TRANSFORMATIONS AND EXPERT TIPS FOR LIFESTYLE UPGRADES

28 Kids: Anti-Bullying 101 How to navigate this difficult subject

[ SIMPLY STYLISH ]

[ SIMPLY DELICIOUS ]

[ SIMPLY LIVING ]

40 Fashion: Eyewear Upgrade Stay on-trend with

60 Review:

new glasses this season

Tradition meets transition at Yuzu Sushi

32 Home: Design Decadence Florida natives transform a traditional Buckhead home into their modern dream

Showtime in Chamblee

42 Beauty: Ready For Your Close-Up How to look

62 Drinks: Make Mine a Mule

polished and camera-ready for video meetings

Variations on the classic copper mug cocktail

Design Hacks

44 Wellness: Back On Track

64 Foodie Journal: Que Rico!

Preventing and alleviating back pain

22 15 Minutes With:

4 design professionals share their favorite in-home tricks

Ozzy Llanes brings big flavor to a tiny restaurant

Kirk Halpern The Founder of Farmers & Fishermen Purveyors

38 Tastemaker:

20 Staycation: A Tennessean Sojourn Exploring Chattanooga’s Southside neighborhood

36 Bulletin Board:

So Fresh and So Clean

24 Approved: Real Food Resolutions Soups to support a healthier New Year

Lindsey Johnson, co-founder of Weezie, is helping upgrade bath time

[ SIMPLY ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT ]

48 On Stage: Young Talent 11-year-old Livi Birch’s acting career is beginning to bloom

66 Tastemaker: From Medicine to Meat Get to know Connor Boney, the man behind Buckhead Butcher Shop

January/February 2021 | Simply Buckhead

7

YOUR GUIDE TO LIVING WELL IN ATLANTA

Serving Buckhead, Brookhaven, Sandy Springs, Chamblee and Dunwoody JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021 | ISSUE 76 P.O. Box 11633, Atlanta, GA 30355 simplybuckhead.com For advertising rates, call: 404.538.9895 Publisher and Founder

[ F E AT U RE D C ON T RI B U T OR ]

Joanne Hayes Chief Financial Officer

Sonny Hayes [ E DI T ORI A L ] Managing Editor

Karina Antenucci Senior Contributing Editor

Jennifer Bradley Franklin Creative Director

Alan Platten Contributing Home Editor

Giannina S. Bedford Copy Editor

H.M. Cauley Contributing Writers

Giannina S. Bedford Giannina S. Bedford is a writer and editor whose work has appeared in Condé Nast Traveler, Hemispheres, Delta Sky, Virtuoso Life, travelandleisure.com, womansday.com and the Atlanta Business Chronicle, among other publications. She spent threeand-a-half years as the editorin-chief of Simply Buckhead and now enjoys touring some of Buckhead’s most beautiful abodes as the magazine’s contributing home and design editor. Fluent in Spanish, Giannina was born in Miami and grew up in Brazil, Chile, Hawaii and Australia. She currently lives in a renovated home in Dunwoody with her two kids, husband and rescue dog.

H.M. Cauley Rebecca Cha Carly Cooper Jessica Dauler Mickey Goodman Angela Hansberger Taylor Heard Nicole Letts Amy Meadows Lia Picard Ginger Strejcek Jewel Wicker [ PHO T O GRA PHE RS ]

Sara Hanna Monica Naranjo Joann Vitelli [ SALES & ADVERTISING ] Vice President, Sales & Marketing

Cheryl Isaacs Account Executive

Michelle Johnson Graphic Designer

Layal Akkad [ DIGITAL ] Website Development Management

BHG Digital Director of Audience Development

Mike Jose 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.

See our curated collection of pleasure objects, liquid velvet sheets and bedroom adventure gear.

8

January/February 2021 | Simply Buckhead

Copyright © 2021 by Simply Buckhead ®. All rights reserved.

Printed by Walton Press, Inc. Distributed by Distributech and Distribution Services Group.

Legal Counsel

Scott I. Zucker

SimplyBuckhead.com Facebook facebook.com “Like” us at LivingWellATL

Twitter twitter.com Follow us @SimplyBuckhead

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[ BEHIND THE COVER ]

We had to get creative to illustrate our makeover cover theme, and boy, was it a team effort! To create the effect of our dressed-down model looking in the mirror and seeing herself in full-on glam mode, Sonny Hayes (our publisher’s husband) built a person-sized frame, sans mirror. Then, Buckhead-based fashion stylist Sara Mixon of Tootsies set about creating both a cozy, stay-athome look for our model, Mia, as well as an outfit that’s ready for a night out. We set up shop in Morningside in the dining room at Nowak’s, and photographer Sara Hanna carefully shot separate images that could be

[ P RO U D S P ON S OR OF ]

combined with the magic of postproduction editing. The result is a conceptual cover that showcases the spirit of the transformations included in our cover story.

Producers: Jennifer Bradley Franklin, Joanne Hayes Photographer: Sara Hanna Photography assistant: Mong Bui Model: Mia, courtesy of Ursula Wiedmann Models Make-up: Michaela David Hair: Richie Arpino Stylist: Sara Mixon, Tootsies Wardrobe: Orchid Vegan Leather Midi Skirt ($350) and Luna Vegan Leather Peplum Top ($315) by Straud, Penny Mule by Loeffler Randall ($395), The Looker Skinny Jeans by Mother ($220) and The Lori Off-Shoulder Sweater by Brochu Walker ($430), all courtesy of Tootsies.

Special thanks to Nowak’s for hosting the photo shoot.

Interested in Advertising?

Read Simply Buckhead online at

For information, email us at advertising@simplybuckhead.com or call 404-538-9895

FIND US ONLINE

[ P ROU D M E M B E R OF ]

January/February 2021 | Simply Buckhead

9

SIMPLY BUCKHEAD® JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021

[ E DI T OR ’ S L E T T E R ]

T

he word “transformation” can feel overwhelming.

Case in point: I’m a big fan of goal-setting, but I’ve never been one for making New Year’s resolutions. They feel like a set-up for failure— and who needs an extra reason to feel bad about oneself? Every January, I begin bracing for the onslaught of “New Year, New You” emails that will inevitably flood my inbox and social media feeds. I have a suspicion I’m not alone.

With that in mind, I think you’ll love this issue’s makeover-themed cover story. Rather than overhaul someone’s entire life or set unrealistic standards, we follow five locals who needed a reset in one area of their lives: fitness, hair and makeup, skincare, wardrobe or nutrition.

The stories you’ll find here are encouraging and hopeful, and they include expert, practical tips anyone can use.

You’ll find the rest of this issue peppered with ideas and resources to optimize various areas of life in 2021. Managing Editor Karina Antenucci explores how to keep your back and neck healthy by upgrading where you work and sleep at home; I explore how to update your eyewear with expert insights from a pro at Warby Parker, and beverage writer Angela Hansberger shares an easy DIY cocktail recipe with ways to customize Sara Hanna

it to your preferences.

Wishing you a most happy and fulfilling New Year!

10

Jennifer Bradley Franklin Senior Contributing Editor

January/February 2021 | Simply Buckhead

N E W S | L O C A L S A L U T E | T R AV E L | 1 5 M I N U T E S W I T H | A P P R O V E D | P E T S | K I D S

SIMPLY NOW

TRAVEL NEAR Couple's Retreat P16 Find utter peace and quiet at this adults-only, luxury country property in Highlands, North Carolina.

Half-Mile Farm’s main house still boasts its lovely early-1900 bones.

January/February 2021 | Simply Buckhead

11

NEWS Ginger Strejcek

Heidi Harris

Michael Thompson

BY:

NEW BISTRO IN BUCKHEAD “W

hen one door closes, another door opens” is par for the course in the restaurant business.

But launching an eatery during a pandemic is another matter entirely. Just ask Christopher Grossman, executive chef and operating partner of The Chastain, a New American cafe that now occupies the space where the shuttered Horseradish Grill served as a Buckhead institution for a quarter of a century.

“Opening a restaurant is always a huge challenge. I

Heidi Harris

French onion soup

actually feel extremely lucky that we were in the construction phase when the pandemic hit,” says Grossman, former chef of Atlas at The St. Regis Atlanta. “It allowed us to weather the initial wave of uncertainty and use that time to reassess and adapt our plan to new legislation and guidance as it was implemented.”

The Chastain features a rotating selection of made-from-scratch dishes with a creative take on classic comfort food, from cinnamon date buns and avocado toast on the breakfast menu (with casual counter service) to French onion soup, fingerling sweet potatoes, lobster agnolotti and prime New York strip for dinner (with spirits aplenty). Some ingredients are sourced from the on-site garden.

Steps away from Chastain Park’s horse park and amphitheater, the restaurant takes full advantage of the scenic locale with plentiful patio seating and a 2,500-square-foot dining room that ushers in the outdoors with large iron-rimmed windows and doors. A neutral color palette with wood and leather accents lends itself to the quaint setting of

Michael Thompson

NEIGHBORHOOD GATHERING SPOT THE CHASTAIN TICKLES TASTEBUDS

Croissant and pain au chocolat with espresso

the building, once home to a roadside country store. “It was the history, natural beauty and innate charm of the entire THE CHASTAIN property that helped 4320 Powers Ferry Road N.W. me to realize this Atlanta 30342 is exactly where 404.257.6416 I wanted to be,” thechastainatl.com Grossman says. n

NEWS CLIPS ANNE FRANK EXHIBIT ON THE MOVE Adding to its cultural and educational programming, City Springs in Sandy Springs will be the new home for the “Anne Frank in the World” exhibit, currently located in the Parkside Shopping Center. Efforts are underway to fund building construction, including an office for the Georgia Commission on the Holocaust that operates the exhibit documenting

the story of the Frank family from 1929-45. The late Mayor Eva Galambos, who fled Germany during the Holocaust as a teenager, was instrumental in bringing the exhibit to Sandy Springs. holocaust.georgia.gov/exhibits/ anne-frank-world-1929-1945

ECONOMIC BOON FOR SANDY SPRINGS Amping up Atlanta’s reputation as a fintech hub, Deluxe Corporation is expanding

its local operations, relocating to a bigger space in Sandy Springs from Dunwoody Perimeter Center. The new financial technology and customer innovation center is set to open this April at 5565 Glenridge Connector.

A pandemic pick-me-up, the center will bring roughly 700 jobs to the city over the next three years with an average salary of $91,500, according to Deluxe CEO Barry McCarthy. Founded as

a check-printing company over a century ago, the Minnesota-based corporation works with other businesses to process transactions and payments through digital financial services. deluxe.com

LIFT-OFF AT PDK An exciting project is taking flight at DeKalb-Peachtree Airport in Chamblee. The Air & Space Museum is under development by the

nonprofit Inspire Aviation Foundation with the goal to create a dedicated space for aerospace education, history, research and development on a tourismfriendly campus. “We are fortunate to have this coming to PDK as it will add another dimension to our incredible aviation community,” says Chamblee Mayor Eric Clarkson, recently named to the IAF Board of Directors. atlantaairandspacemuseum.org

January/February 2021 | Simply Buckhead

13

LOCAL SALUTE

BY:

Mickey Goodman

Scott Cunningham/NBAE/Getty Images

Heather Schlesinger is helping lead the Atlanta Community Food Bank through one of its toughest challenges: COVID-19.

Atlanta Hawk John Collins is a superhero both on and off the court.

Focus on Kids John Collins, the Atlanta Hawks’ dynamic forward/center, is widely recognized for his accomplishments on the court, but he’s equally well known in the philanthropic arena. For his generosity, he was awarded the 2019-2020 Jason Collier Memorial Trophy as the Hawks player who most closely exemplified the characteristics of a community ambassador such as Collier, who passed away in 2005.

The NBA standout has been volunteering with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Metro Atlanta since he joined the Hawks in 2017. “Both of my parents were in the military, and I spent a lot of time at recreation centers like BBBS,” he says. “I never met successful adults and wanted to help fill that gap.”

Nicknamed the “pied piper” by his mom, he’s lived up to the name by serving as an Honorary Big and

Star on and off the court hosting scores of kids at games.

With the onset of COVID-19, Collins has also been conducting virtual workout camps. In normal times, he’s a frequent visitor at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta.

A big supporter of the military, Collins works with the Veterans Empowerment Organization of Georgia that helps veterans on their road to self-sufficiency. “Being part of a military family, I saw how the military supported families by providing housing and other services,” he says. “When I visited retired vets recently, I realized how the military can also let troops down. The harsh reality of meeting them in person inspired me to keep on going.” l For more information, visit nba.com/hawks.

School Supply Surprise

14

When Dunwoody resident Heather Schlesinger worked for Krystal, her kids told their friends, “Mom makes square hamburgers.” Today, they say with pride, “Mom works at the Atlanta Community Food Bank and feeds hungry kids.”

As chief marketing officer for the last three years, Schlesinger says that although the jobs are similar, her current position is a lot more rewarding—but also more challenging.

Those challenges have become exponentially greater during the pandemic that has generated a 300% increase in inquiries from people seeking food assistance in Georgia. “Food insecurity affects people from all walks of life, and we now provide 30 to 40% more meals every week than we did at this time last year,” she says. “One in four kids goes to bed hungry, and

Education is a high priority for cosmetic dentist Hugh Flax who donated needed school supplies to deserving young students.

Crayons, pencils and books Dunwoody cosmetic dentist Hugh Flax has a passion for education, and when he read about the struggle teachers are having due to COVID-19, he wanted to help.

Fellow dentists Steve Gorman of Minneapolis, Rod Gore of Scottsdale, Arizona and Todd Goldstein of New York were of a similar mind.

They devised a contest via

Feeding Folks

social media and asked teachers to tell them why they needed an extra $500. “Each of us selected a teacher so we could hopefully help give kids a new dream for

January/February 2021 | Simply Buckhead

themselves,” says Flax. “We opened the envelopes with the names of the winners online as if we were on an awards show. We’re hoping to start a movement and inspire others to do the same.”

Flax chose Rachel Helling, a kindergarten teacher at Glengarry Elementary School in Nashville where students have language and economic barriers. “While working virtually, I wondered how I would be able to buy the individual supplies dictated by the district for my 25 students with just the $200 allocation,” says Helling.

With a portion of the dona-

Ramping up

school meals are likely the only food they get.” With so many students studying remotely, the Food Bank is working with districts and nonprofits to distribute meals to kids who are no longer in brick-and-mortar schools.

“Our biggest challenge in 2020 was having to close our doors to the 30,000 people who volunteer annually,” she says.

“Fortunately, Governor Brian Kemp shared the Georgia National Guard, which allowed us to continue doing our work.”

A donation of $5 provides four meals, Schlesinger says.

“Since families can’t currently visit loved ones, homebound seniors and people with disabilities rely on us and our network of partners, too. I hope people will consider giving generously.” l For more information, visit acfb.org.

tion, Helling bought chair covers with multiple pockets. When the students returned to the classroom in October, they found them loaded with supplies selected by Flax. “They were absolutely thrilled,” she says. “Many had never owned crayons, pencils or books.” l For more information, visit flaxdental.com.

Want to nominate a volunteer, company or nonprofit that makes Buckhead, Chamblee, Dunwoody Sandy Springs or Brookhaven a better place to live?

Please contact: editor@simplybuckhead.com

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TR AV E L NE A R

A Couple’s Retreat

From left to right: One of Half-Mile's three historic cabins, cozying up in front of the fire pit and breakfast delights in the Main House.

Below: A Woodland Luxury King Room balcony provides a private outdoor space.

Highlands, North Carolina, provides the kid-less getaway of COVID-year dreams STORY:

Karina Antenucci

O

nly the call of a romantic mountain retreat at Half-Mile Farm in Highlands, North Carolina, could have drawn my husband and me out of our lockdown mode this winter. The utter peace and quiet of the adults-only, luxury country property 2.5 hours from Atlanta and a few minutes’ drive from quaint downtown Highlands were a divine gift of rest and reconnection for two weary toddler parents.

Our first, second and third order of business was to relax. A Champagne welcome, followed by a nap in a Frette linen-clad king bed and reading an issue of Vanity Fair on a balcony overlooking a pine tree forest complete with a running brook soundtrack, fit our “take it easy” agenda. Next, we indulged in Half-Mile’s daily 5 to 6 p.m. cocktail hour, taking our vino and complimentary meat and cheese plates out to the veranda to enjoy the view of serene Apple Lake, named after the orchard that once flourished on the original 120-acre farm, which began as land grant in the 1880s.

Today, a few apple trees remain.

Half-Mile Farm’s 21-room property features a main house that boasts bones from its early 1900 beginnings and now houses a reception area, cozy bar and spacious breakfast restaurant. Its accommodations include

16

Left: Warm up fireside with a cocktail at HalfMile's bar, J. Henry Farmhouse Tavern.

several newly renovated guest rooms just off the main house, each with an outdoor entrance (a COVID-era plus) and three historic, rustic-chic cabins. The latter originated as eight cabins in locations throughout the South and were carefully dismantled, relocated and reconstructed with larger floor plans at Half-Mile.

For laid-back fun without leaving the property, complimentary bikes, a canoe and stand up paddle boards (for the brave and well-balanced in the winter!) are available. A heated pool beckons sore muscles from active adventures no matter the season. Several indoor and outdoor seating nooks are nestled throughout the spaces, including a guest lounge where you can curl up by a fireplace and play board games (currently available upon request), share conversation or simply enjoy blissful silence.

January/February 2021 | Simply Buckhead

Off-property, an abundance of outdoor activities, including various hikes, awaits. Craving time in nature without making a day of it, my husband and I embarked on two nearby trails. First we tackled Whiteside Mountain, a 2-mile loop that sounded but didn’t feel “moderate” during the 1-mile ascent to the top, but it offered breathtaking vistas that made the strenuous climb worth it. Glen Falls trail, also roughly 2-miles roundtrip, provided four scenic stops to view the rushing falls.

Afterwards, I savored every minute of a signature massage at The Spa at Old Edwards Inn. While the spa’s saunas and steam rooms are currently closed, the coed Fireside Lounge welcomes with the plushest of lounge chairs to sink into.

In addition to the spa, guests of Half-Mile enjoy all the amenities sister property Old Edwards Inn has to

offer including its restaurants, presently open only to inn guests. Trusted foodie friends told me Madison’s Restaurant was not to be missed, and the romantic, farm-to-table fine dining in a relaxed, stone cottage-like ambiance did not disappoint. Recommended: the roasted root vegetable “kilt” salad with bacon lardons, aged goat cheese and apple cider vinegar to start followed by a Dijon and herbcrusted pork tenderloin with roasted apples, fingerlings and garden greens.

The inn’s shuttle is at your service after a night on the town. Look out for bears crossing—we delighted in spotting a mama and her cubs.

Having enchanted us with its ways and with so much more to see and do, Highlands has certainly landed a place on our must-return list. Now back to the “real world”… n HALF-MILE FARM 855.271.7246 oldedwardshospitality.com/ half-mile-farm

T R AV E L FA R IF YOU GO Savor Barndiva barndiva.com Mateo’s Cocina Latina mateoscocinalatina.com Dry Creek Kitchen drycreekkitchen.com

Sip DaVero Farms & Winery davero.com Jordan Winery jordanwinery.com Bricoleur Vineyards bricoleurvineyards.com

Shop Bon Ton Studio bonton-studio.com

Have wine?

Stay Harmon Guest House harmonguesthouse.com

Will Travel

Left: Stroll vast Sonoma vineyards and taste the grapes during Jordan Winery's vineyard hike.

Despite 2020’s Sonoma-area fires, centralized Healdsburg continues to draw grape enthusiasts

A

s my plane descended into the San Francisco airport, the sky turned an eerie shade of persimmon, and a faint scent of smoke filled the cabin. The flight was my first during the pandemic, and the macabre ambiance caused by the nearby wildfires was, honestly, a bit unsettling. We pushed through gray clouds of smoke, and I reminded myself that several days of wine tasting in California’s most illustrious terroirs would more than compensate for my brief unease.

I was right. I was headed to Healdsburg, one of Sonoma’s idyllic towns, perfectly centralized for experiencing three of wine country’s more than 18 American Viticultural Areas (AVAs): Alexander Valley, Dry Creek Valley and Russian River Valley.

Healdsburg has a way of rising from the ashes. In fact, as Atlantans, we might call it our fellow Phoenix city. Wildfires are to Californians what hurricanes are to Southerners. They’re dangerous and unpredictable, but they don’t paralyze us. As I made my way throughout Healdsburg, tasting unique wines and sampling local cuisine, I discovered a city that is resilient and people who are strong.

With three AVAs within a few miles of Healdsburg, I made it a point to visit a winery in each one. Plus, wine tasting is perhaps one of the safest socially distanced activities. As of my trip in the fall, each tasting took place outdoors.

At DaVero Farms and Winery, one

18

mile from Healdsburg and part of the Dry Creek Valley AVA, guests are treated to a tour of the biodynamic farm and gardens before sitting amid flowers and trees for a private Italianvarietal wine tasting and seasonal food pairing. Director Andrew Hock says his goal is to “tear down the pretentious walls around wine and make it for everyone.” As such, he lets guests’ tastebuds lead, never hinting at what they should or should not taste in their glasses.

My next stop was to Alexander Valley to experience the area by sipping under the trees and amid the vines at Jordan Winery. The 1,200-acre vineyard and winery offer various ways to enjoy cabernet sauvignon and chardonnay vintages. The vineyard hike takes adventurous wine drinkers on a 4-miler through the vineyards and climbs more than 300 feet of elevation. The Paris on the Terrace lunch is a two-hour, five-course food and wine pairing prepared by chef Todd Knoll that all but transports diners to a French bistro. If you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of head winemaker Maggie Kruse, who just celebrated her 15th harvest with Jordan and her first as head winemaker.

Finally, I traveled to Bricoleur Vineyards, one of Russian River Valley’s newest wineries that is already solidifying itself as a top-notch maker due to its legendary staff. Here, fourth generation California winemaker Cary Gott (of the same family as the famed

January/February 2021 | Simply Buckhead

STORY:

Nicole Letts

Gott’s Roadside in neighboring Napa) helms the winemaking while executive chef Shane McAnelly presides over the food. The result is a balanced partnership in which food and wine waltz in harmony. Visitors to Bricoleur can choose from a variety of tastings, most of which showcase the food and wine partnership between Gott and McAnelly. I enjoyed the Sip & Savor option. During this ultimate tasting experience, I sampled six wines along with six small bites of paired dishes.

Like me, plan to rest your head at Harmon Guest House, one of Healdsburg’s latest hotels in the heart of town. With 39 rooms, you’ll be treated to a boutique affair. Each guest room is complete with a balcony or patio with views of the prop-

Below: DaVero Farms and Winery offers private tastings amid their gardens in Healdsburg.

erty’s creek, mountains or interior courtyard. Guests are enveloped in the surrounding trees, offering a cozy respite after a day of wine tasting.

For drinks, head to the hotel’s The Rooftop for picturesque views of Fitch Mountain before making your way across the street to Mateo’s Cocina Latina for fresh agua fresca, seasonal margaritas and Yucataninspired fare with California flair.

Despite being faced with a difficult 2020 followed by devastating fires, Healdsburg presses on. Most of the fires were kept at bay while harvest forged ahead. Hell hath no fury like a threatened winemaker. The 2020 vintages were produced, and I am already dreaming about my return to sample the fruits of the harvest. n

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January/February 2021 | Simply Buckhead

19

S TAYC AT I O N

Left: Chattanooga sits in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains.

Below: Chef Erik Niel of Easy Bistro prepares dishes like wood-fired lobster.

A Tennessean Sojourn

Below: At Chattanooga Whiskey you can sample flights and cocktails.

STORY:

Lia Picard

"W

ould you and Jon like to go away for the night?” That simple question, posed to me by my mother-in-law, set my heart aflutter. We love our 19-monthold daughter, but being cooped up with her since March with little childcare has left us in need of some grownup time. A one-night getaway sounded perfect, and I knew just the place: Chattanooga. Getting there is an easy 90-minute drive north of Buckhead on I-75, making it an ideal locale for a staycation.

Chattanooga sits in the foothills of the Appalachian mountains, and the Tennessee River winds through it. This juxtaposition of nature against the urban landscape lends to the city’s moniker “Scenic City.” It’s just as easy to appreciate the natural beauty from the pedestrian-only Walnut Street Bridge as it is from a trail on nearby Lookout Mountain.

In the spirit of an adult jaunt, the first stop we made upon arrival was Chattanooga Whiskey located in the city’s Southside Historic District. Take a tour or get straight to the good stuff by booking a tasting-only option. This gets you seats at the bar and a flight

20

of six samples of the staple distillates and a couple tastes of the experimental batches, such as a coffee-infused liqueur. Let the fun begin!

The great thing about the Southside neighborhood is its ample dining options and walkability. When the hunger pangs kicked in, we headed to Slick’s Burgers, a five-minute walk from the distillery. Upon entering Slick’s, the first thing that stands out is the quirky vibe complete with an Airstream that houses the kitchen. The big draw here, besides the burgers, is the presence of Rebecca Barron who formerly helmed the kitchen at Chattanooga’s upscale and nationally lauded St. John’s Restaurant. Here, she shifts gears in a casual setting but still makes her mark with indulgent yet clever offerings such as cheeseburger egg rolls and smoked brisket tacos.

There’s plenty to explore around Chattanooga, but we stuck to the Southside. After getting a caffeine fix at Velo Coffee Roasters and visiting the Chattanooga Choo Choo, a historic train depot turned hotel and entertainment complex, we headed to Hotel Indigo. The boutique hotel opened its doors in October and is situated downtown about a half mile from the Riverfront district.

Our evening’s main event was din-

January/February 2021 | Simply Buckhead

Hollis Bennett

EXPLORING CHATTANOOGA'S SOUTHSIDE NEIGHBORHOOD

ner at Easy Bistro, which moved to its new location in Chattanooga’s West Village district in September and is a quick walk from Hotel Indigo. The space is bright and welcoming with a blue and white color palette and warm brass accents. We sat by the window overlooking the street and took our time sipping wine and enjoying the menu’s standouts of fresh Gulf oysters, wood-fired lobster with a chili-lime butter and the house-made cavatelli with tomato sauce and burrata.

With no baby to wake us up, we slept in before meandering over the river to the North Shore neighborhood where Milk & Honey is located. The all-day cafe offers comforting fare in a charming setting. On that chilly morning, I warmed up with a cup of coffee

and the Farmhouse Biscuit loaded with sausage, bacon, tomato jam, caramelized onion and scrambled egg.

Feeling content, we said goodbye to Chattanooga and headed home where our bright-eyed, curly-haired toddler awaited. Grownup time was fun while it lasted. n

DETAILS Hotel Indigo Chattanooga Downtown ihg.com Easy Bistro easybistro.com Slick’s Burgers facebook.com/slicksburger Chattanooga Whiskey chattanoogawhiskey.com

15 MINUTES WITH

KIRK HALPERN

STORY:

Amy Meadows

PHOTO: Joann

Vitelli

K

irk Halpern was one year and one day into his law career, and he was not happy in his chosen profession. He yearned to build something into a tangible success. So he called his father, Howard Halpern, founder of Buckhead Beef. “I told him that I was looking to make a jump,” Halpern recalls. “He asked if I had a pair of shoes.”

He joined his father’s company, and the duo transformed it into one of the largest privately owned meat purveyors in the country. They sold it to the Sysco Corporation in 1999, and Halpern stayed on as president and chief operating officer until 2005. Soon after, the Sandy Springs resident founded Halperns’ Steak & Seafood Co., which also achieved success. Gordon Food Service acquired it in 2015, and Halpern left in 2017.

Over the 18 months that followed, Halpern developed a slew of single-family rental homes. He pursued his passion for philanthropy, which led to his current appointment as chair of the board of directors of Goodwill of North Georgia. Then he returned to his roots in July 2019, launching Farmers & Fishermen Purveyors to serve local chef-owned and operated restaurants. But the experience became an unexpected one that saw him change his entire business plan overnight.

Why did you decide to return to the meat and seafood purveyor industry?

I’m a 30-year professional, but it’s been my entire life.

I grew up in this business.

This is the industry I know.

It’s what I enjoy. I have a passion to build, and I wanted to build a new company. I have a passion to serve, and I wanted to serve my customers, community and employees. I also have a passion to work with my son who’s 24, and I wanted to create an opportunity for him to have a business if he earns it.

What was your initial goal for Farmers & Fishermen Purveyors?

I spent 18 months thinking about the model. I thought about how distribution is always done using big trucks and Class A drivers.

I wanted to change the environmental footprint and give an opportunity to people who have the inclination to be drivers but not the certification. Atlanta is a Mercedes town, so I bought Mercedes-Benz

22

vans, which anyone can jump into and drive.

I made sure that all packages could be carried by the drivers; usually they’re 80 pounds, but everything packed for me is under 20 pounds. I wanted a model that would bring a great level of flexibility with it.

So my model was actually “go small or go home.”

How did the pandemic change your approach to the business?

It was early March, and we were serving 120 of the top restaurants in Greater Atlanta. But on March 16, the market dropped.

Restaurants were closing down. I was getting call after call canceling orders. My suppliers were at risk. I went home, and my wife had sent out a text to some friends to see if they needed meat and seafood. As I pulled into the driveway, I saw five suburban Sandy Springs women grabbing boxes of salmon. I had an epiphany.

We needed to take care of the community. I sat down

January/February 2021 | Simply Buckhead

with a yellow legal pad and spent 13 hours redesigning the business. There would be no firing, no furloughs and no reduction in pay or hours. We were going to work and grow through this crisis. We would deliver directly to people’s homes, which we had never done before.

How is business today?

It’s gone so well. We’ve developed a great customer base. And those customers are so thrilled to receive

quality products at home for a great price. I’m also hiring during this crisis; I had 35 employees, and now I have over 55.

We’re still serving restaurants, and I wanted to help them as they reopen.

So I started Cooking Chatter, a show on Facebook Live, so chefs could share their tips for cooking the products we offer. It brings the restaurant customers and home delivery customers together. We’ve made it fun.

Why do you think your new approach has been so successful?

I love Atlanta, and we were able to do this because of where we are. There’s a sense of community and the idea that we’re all in this together. I couldn’t have done this in any other state or any other city. n FARMERS & FISHERMEN PURVEYORS 770.441.1100 farmersandfishermen.com

A Place Where You Belong We are ready to welcome you!

Please check with our individual businesses for more information on current operating hours, curbside/delivery options & more.

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January/February 2021 | Simply Buckhead

23

A P P ROVE D

Mother Earth Bowl ($9.95)

Poke Bowl ($13.50) A superfood cafe, Kale Me Crazy is dedicated to house-made juices, smoothies blended from fresh fruit and vegetables, and açaí bowls made from scratch each day. Menu options include plenty of quick and nutritious choices made with organic ingredients, including raw foods such as the top-selling Poke Bowl. This specialty dish is made with wild caught ahi tuna, avocado, cucumber, carrots, edamame, radish, toasted sesame seeds and spicy vegan mayonnaise, and served on a bed of jasmine rice.

Custom ingredient options are also available for all menu items.

Kale Me Crazy 4600 Roswell Road Atlanta 30342 404.500.3712 kalemecrazy.net

Flower Child has carefully created meal choices for healthy eaters by offering a generous selection of vegetarian, vegan and Paleo options. This casual dining alternative is satisfying whenever you are craving bowls, salads or wraps. Reviews claim the Mother Earth Bowl is a top pick that combines fresh vegetables, avocado and cucumber with an ancient grains mix of quinoa, farro and barley, less processed grains that are higher in protein and fatty acids.

Flower Child 6400 Blue Stone Road Sandy Springs 30328 470.481.7850 iamaflowerchild.com

Real Food Resolutions It’s that time of year again when vows for well-being are made, and the demand for healthy food is on the rise. Many people with busy lives frequently rely on takeout menus or fast-casual dining concepts to get them through each week, often sacrificing nutrition for quick convenience. This year, ordering out or on the go is no longer an excuse to surrender resolutions since the Buckhead area is fortunate to have a variety of fast-casual restaurants that serve up nourishing, delicious options to healthy lifestyle seekers.

STORY:

Jessica Dauler

Gusto is another fast-casual concept that makes eating healthy a simple step-by-step process. Start by choosing a fresh bowl or wrap with a certain “gusto,” an international or American-inspired flavor such as sweet soy sriracha, chile sesame barbecue or tahini cucumber feta.

Then, pick a style (mixed greens or rice for example), add a protein Gusto!

4945 Peachtree Blvd. such as chicken and grab and go.

Chamblee 30341 Visit the Peachtree location that 678.587.5386 houses the company’s first drivewhatsyourgusto.com thru option in Atlanta.

My Dad's Turkey Chili Bowl ($8) Souper Jenny often has lines out the door with loyal customers eager to savor the latest menu items. A new selection is offered daily that includes a variety of healthy soup, salad and sandwich specials. Customers rave about owner Jenny Levison's gluten-free turkey chili (her father's original recipe) that combines four different types of beans with fresh minced turkey, three types of pepper, fresh cilantro and chili seasoning.

Souper Jenny Brookhaven 4274 Peachtree Road N.E Atlanta 30319 404.968.9361 souperjennyatl.com

Green Miracle Soup ($9.95) Local wellness and lifestyle expert Tammy Stokes runs a healthy eats cafe that offers an assortment of nutritious salads, smoothies and nutrient-dense signature soups.

The Green Miracle soup is loaded with dark, leafy green vegetables and herbs such as basil and bay leaf.

It's perfect for getting Cafe West Express back on the healthy eating 3792 Roswell Road track after an indulgent Atlanta 30342 holiday season.

404.800.5379 cafewestexpress.com

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January/February 2021 | Simply Buckhead

Tahini Cucumber Feta with grilled chicken ($9.55)

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January/February 2021 | Simply Buckhead

25

P E TS

dog's space if he wishes to be alone.

Instead, allow the dog to approach family members once he becomes comfortable. Rushing interaction may alarm the dog. In contrast, patience is more apt to foster long-term bonding, security and trust.”

Courtesy of cottonbro from Pexels

BE PATIENT

Homeward Bound What you should consider before “returning” a pet STORY:

O

Taylor Heard

ne piece of much-needed good news came to surface this year: Atlanta’s animal shelters and rescue centers were either completely or nearly emptied in early summer, thanks to the many Atlantans fostering and adopting pets to fill the extra time inside that came with their new work-from-home lifestyle.

Rescue Me Georgia in Sandy Springs was one of the centers positively impacted by stay-at-home

26

an increase in animals returned when lifestyles revert back to normal.

BE PREPARED orders. “We’ve had a huge spike in the number of adoptions; we’ve had over 300 since March,” says co-founder Marybeth Rathbun.

“When COVID is over, we don’t want them to be returned to us.

We want success on both ends.”

Likewise, the post-holiday period is notorious for pet “returns.” If you’ve taken in a four-legged friend to keep you company, whether as COVID comfort or a holiday gift for the kids, these local experts offer advice on how to make the transition as smooth as possible for both you and the pet, so shelters don’t see

January/February 2021 | Simply Buckhead

Just like any other personal commitment, adopting animals requires putting in the preparation up front to make it more successful long term. “When bringing the dog home, provide a crate in a quiet area of the home; two dog beds, one in a quiet area and another in the corner of the family room; a water bowl; two to three dog-human interactive toys, such as a ball or tug rope; and two to three chew items,” says Mark Spivak, owner and head trainer at Comprehensive Pet Therapy, Inc., in Sandy Springs. “Don't invite guests for the first few days. Moreover, don't invade the

A gentle approach is also vital when accommodating a new pet in your abode. “For a foster in a new home, everything is brand new. They need a gentle hand and lots of patience,” says Robin Bronner, a certified professional dog trainer at Dunwoody’s Camp Run-A-Mutt. “Don’t punish them if they do something you don’t like; focus instead on teaching them what you do want.”

Alex Valdivia, a veteran professional dog trainer at Sandy Springs-based AV Dog Training, says it can take an animal, especially a dog, up to 21 days to adjust to a new home. There are actions you can take to help a new pet feel more comfortable, like taking the dog to a neutral location such as a park, to get acquainted with each other prior to heading home. New adoptive pet parents can also tap AV’s team for their talents in obedience and behavioral training, especially if your new tail-wagging tenant has trouble listening to commands or is treating your polished hardwood floors like a patch of grass.

Additionally, Spivak says, “The inclusion of lavender essential oils from a diffuser, dog-appeasing pheromone products such as Adaptil from a wall diffuser or spray or the pleasant auditory stimulation of chamber music may help expedite relaxation.”

BE HONEST There’s always a chance the animal won’t get comfortable in its new space, even if you do everything “right.” If you’ve done your due diligence to give the pet plenty of time to adjust, Rathbun advises that “the right thing would be to contact [the shelter or rescue center] and let them know it’s not working. You shouldn’t feel bad about being honest that it’s not working because you could actually do more damage if you’re not.” n DETAILS AV Dog Training avdogtraining.com Camp Run-A-Mutt camprunamutt.com/dunwoody Comprehensive Pet Therapy, Inc. cpt-training.com Rescue Me Georgia rmgdogs.org

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January/February 2021 | Simply Buckhead 

27

K ID S

Anti-Bullying 101 How to navigate this difficult subject

B

Understand what bullying is

Know what you’re dealing with Bullying comes in physical, verbal, social and cyber forms, and depending on what you hear your child say, you might consider different responses.

First, make sure your child is safe. For physical and cyberbullying, which is

28

Karina Antenucci

Inform the school appropriately

ullying is one of the ugly aspects of life. And when your child is hurt, it’s hard not to want to rush in to rescue her right away, but try to proceed by listening calmly and asking open-ended questions first, suggests Lynn J. Mandelbaum, a licensed clinical social worker who has been the Early Learning Counselor at The Galloway School in Buckhead for 15 years and was previously in clinical practice.

A one-time incident or the social ups and downs that come with friendship aren’t necessarily bullying. “It’s important that parents are able to discern between a child going through a social problem at school and the ongoing, repeated and intentional behavior that is bullying,” says Mandelbaum, who cautions parents not to use the word “bully” too frequently or flippantly to diminish its true meaning.

STORY:

Lynn J. Mandelbaum, Early Learning counselor at The Galloway School.

The first step in escalating awareness of the situation is to share what you’ve heard with the classroom teacher, who may be able to intervene easily. Next, contact the school counselor. If you don’t get any action after those attempts, move it up the food chain to the assistant principal and principal, Mandelbaum recommends. If the abuse is verbal or social, however, try to first empower your child to handle it on his or her own, and then find out how it’s going.

Arm your kid with info a crime, parents must step in quickly.

“Usually there’s some kind of school code of conduct for online behavior.

Kids often don’t understand how powerful online information is, and there can be legal consequences,” Mandelbaum says.

It’s also important to know that your child might not tell you if they are being bullied. “Look out for any behavior change and telltale signs such as avoidance, change of basic habits like sleeping and eating or an unusual reluctance to go to school,” Mandelbaum says.

January/February 2021 | Simply Buckhead

Parents can offer strategies and even do rehearsals in advance.

Mandelbaum suggests using the acronym S.A.F.E. to communicate ways to deal with being bullied: n S is for “say something,” such as “stop, don’t do that” to dissipate the behavior. n A is for “ask for help,” whether that’s from parents, a school counselor or a teacher. n F is for “find a friend,” as there is always strength in numbers. n E is for “exit the area.” Just get away from the situation.

Regarding cyber interactions, make sure to educate kids on the concept of digital citizenship. “Remind kids that they are the same person online that they are in the world, and they are always a representative of themselves, their family and their school,” Mandelbaum says.

Teach empathy at every interval What can you do if your child is— God forbid—the bully? The best strategy is to teach empathy on an ongoing basis. Parents can use media such as books, TV shows and movies to drive home this message.

“Kids who are targeted are often perceived as different in some way.

Explain to children that we all have differences and all have value. It’s a long process. Schools and families alike have to embrace opportunities to teach this,” Mandelbaum says.

“From a young age, ask your child, ‘How do you think so-and-so felt in that situation?’ If your child doesn’t have the words to answer, you can supply them. ‘If I were in their shoes, I would be really frightened.’”

Lastly, when a bullying issue is resolved, let it be resolved so your kid (and the other one) can move on. n

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SIMPLY LIVING

HOME

Design Decadence P32

“We wanted to make it as modern as we could without it looking ridiculous.” —Ron Yung

After a lengthy renovation, Ron and Ann Yung are reveling in their stunning Buckhead abode.

Photo: Joann Vitelli

January/February 2021 | Simply Buckhead

31

H OM E

Below: The Yungs teamed up with designer Jeffrey Bruce Baker for the home makeover.

Design Decadence Florida natives transform a traditional Buckhead home into their modern dream

Joann Vitelli

STORY:

R

on Yung loves ultra-modern homes.

But when he and his wife, Ann, couldn’t find the ideal Buckhead lot on which to build a contemporary abode, they did the next best thing. They found a home on a well-sized property and made it as modern as possible—without sacrificing the integrity of its traditional beginnings.

“When we came in here, it was unpleasantly

32

January/February 2021 | Simply Buckhead

Giannina S. Bedford PHOTOS: Brad Mitchell

traditional, but it had good bones. It was built well,” Ron says. “We wanted to make it as modern as we could without it looking ridiculous, so we kept some of the crown molding and things like that. We wanted modern but didn’t want it to look completely out of place.”

To help complete the transformation, the Yungs hired Jeffrey Bruce Baker of Jeffrey Bruce Baker Designs. They’d seen his name advertised on a yard sign near a recently built modern home they loved, and before even putting in an offer, they asked him to assess the home for its potential.

“I loved the house, but it had lots of small rooms and no views to the rear.

Those were the two major items I first wanted to change,” Baker says.

The Yungs closed on the three-story, 7,500-square-foot house in March 2019.

They moved into the downstairs basement and lived through more than a year of

renovations, facing unforeseen delays exacerbated by the pandemic.

“We thought, worst case scenario, we’d be in by Thanksgiving, and we just forgot to ask what Thanksgiving,” Ron chuckles.

“We had a lot of stuff that came out of Italy, so with the shutdown, there were a lot of things we were waiting on that couldn’t get brought into the country.”

In addition to modernizing the home, Ann had several items on her wish list. An avid cook, she wanted both an updated indoor kitchen and a fully equipped outdoor kitchen.

She also envisioned a floor plan that opened up to the large backyard and a customized walk-in closet in the master bedroom. Once complete, the home checked all the boxes.

The kitchen, completely redone and relocated, was flipped 180 degrees to offer a view of the vast backyard through a wall of new sliding glass doors. Anchored by a waterfall island

Left: Pops of yellow from the kitchen to the dining room add just enough of Ann’s favorite color to the sleek interior.

Right: The Eames chair in the living space next to the kitchen is one of the few items the Yungs brought from their previous home.

-

Below: An onyxtopped dresser glows in the center of the master closet.

“The whole thing was a ying-yang effect of blending traditional and modern.”

–Jeffrey Bruce Baker

den behind leather pocket doors made of sheepskin embossed to look like shark’s skin.

In the adjacent art gallery-inspired foyer is one of Ron’s favorite works of art: an acrylic painting called Behind the Mask by British artist Lincoln Townley. The sleek space, with the entry through a mahogany pivot front door, also showcases two furnishings custom made by Baker: a narrow chrome and glass table and central bench of long-hair angora shearling on a base of burl wood. Arguably the most eye-catching design highlight of the main level, however, is the glass and steel staircase. Thick wood treads float between artistically cut panels of glass to create a statement-making ascent to the top floor.

“The stairs are my very favorite thing in the house. I would never have done the remodel if I couldn’t have done floating stairs,” Ron says. “It’s art, and I love art. I think it’s fantastic.”

At the top of the stairs is the couple’s master bedroom retreat with Ann’s wowworthy walk-in closet. Surrounding a glowing onyx-topped center dresser island, the

s

topped with Antolini’s Bianco Lasa Fantastico marble from Pietra, the kitchen features zebra wood, an oversized Dacor refrigerator and— a nod to Ann’s favorite color—lacquered yellow cabinets that hang above the Gaggenau range. Its casual dining area is furnished in a dark gray Century table and matching chairs upholstered in super-soft Pollack fabric.

Off the kitchen, a spacious lounge area features a gas fireplace backed by striking floor-to-ceiling tiles of Antolini’s Black Cosmic leathered granite. The opposite side of the kitchen offers a more formal dining area where another pop of yellow comes from the custom square table created by a local artist.

Nearby, two silently refrigerated custom glass columns showcase wine bottles as floating art.

“The whole thing was a ying-yang effect of blending traditional and modern, but where it looked like there were intentional decisions,” Baker says. “It’s sophisticated.”

The home’s main level also houses a TV room with a vintage jukebox and junior suite (large bedroom and ensuite bathroom) hid-

In the entryway, a prized acrylic painting hangs above a heavy chrome and glass table custom made by Jeffrey Bruce Baker.

January/February 2021 | Simply Buckhead

33

H OM E

room features lacquered gray cabinetry and glass doors that enclose an impressive collection of purses, shoes and designer fashions. “Her closet turned out pretty nice, I must say,” Ron says.

Around the corner, the couple’s bedroom is sleek and minimalist, but offers controlled color through the yellow leather bed from Italy and night stands designed and made by Baker. Behind a wall of gold-leafed crystal prisms is the Yungs’ white and gray master bathroom with upscale Kohler fixtures and a walk-in shower done in tiles of lilac marble.

“We cut and laid the tile in the damier pattern that Louis Vuitton does to give it a little hint of fashion Ann loves,” Baker says.

The transformation of the Yungs’ striking Buckhead abode was all about high-end details. From the fabrics—Loro Piana, Holland & Sherry and Pollack—that came from some of the oldest mill houses in the world to the custom furnishings and handpicked cuts of stone, no design elements were chosen casually.

“We started with hand sketches and created it. The only downfall is it takes patience and time when it comes to innovation and true custom details” Baker admits.

The finished product offers the “wow” effect of many upscale modern homes, with a warmer undertone. Ron says guests are often blown away by the unexpected interior.

Ron loves modern design, but acknowledges that some uber-modern environments can be artful to the point of being uncomfortable. “I don’t think this is like that.

I think this is very inviting,” he says of the couple’s new home. n

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January/February 2021 | Simply Buckhead

Above: More of Ann’s favorite hue is showcased by the tufted Italian leather bed in the master bedroom.

Left: Adjustable lighting mirrors and smart toilets are just some of the fixtures in the Yungs’ high-end bathroom.

Below: The floating staircase was Ron’s musthave design element.

JEFFREY BRUCE BAKER’S TOP TIPS FOR INFUSING MODERN TOUCHES INTO A TRADITIONAL HOME 1. Do not worry about needing to replace everything. Large quantity items such as moldings look great when painted the same color as the walls, doors and ceiling.

2. Where possible make all major floor surfaces the same material so the spaces flow together.

3. Pick a few areas to make features, such as the fireplace or staircase. For example, stair railing design alone or paired with the stair materials and trimming or an entire new stair can make a major impact on the style of the space.

4. Big items such as kitchen and bath designs will definitely make a huge impact, but do not overlook small details such as updating all the door hinges and handles to a modern or transitional option.

5. Small accents go a long way, too. For example, covering a key doorway leading to a powder room or the guest suite with materials such as leather or wallpaper will create a unique element and emphasize the importance of the passage.

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January/February 2021 | Simply Buckhead

35

BULLETIN BOARD

BY:

Giannina S. Bedford

DESIGN HACKS 4 DESIGN PROFESSIONALS SHARE THEIR FAVORITE IN-HOME TRICKS Heather Hogan Roberts

Lauren Davenport DAVENPORT DESIGNS

IVY AND VINE ivyandvine.com “I do many projects with wallpaper, and we always end up having some left over. So, I have done panels of wallpaper framed in a series or a large, framed piece.

It’s a great way to add color or pattern in a neutral room. You can also float it on a gold or lacquered frame for more pops of color without breaking the bank.

A lot of clients also don’t want to spend the money to paper an entire room, so this is a great way to get a little piece.”

the bed. Then layer on higher quality or pricey pillows and throws to make an inexpensive duvet look more high-end.”

PRODUCT

SPOTLIGHT

This Cyan Design Brighton Wine Holder offers a stylish way to display the many wine bottles collected over the holiday season. Made of iron and leather with a raw steel finish, it’s available to order in small (pictured) for $70, medium for $95 and large for $115 at the Buckhead showroom of Topography Home or at topographyhome.com.

davenportdesignsltd.com

“If you have a space that has low ceilings and little architectural interest, paint the walls, ceiling and trim all the same color to give the illusion of higher ceilings. Doing this does not provide the eye a breakpoint to distinguish between the moldings and the ceiling.”

Designer Divya Vaswani says closets and hallway nooks can be converted to a workspace.

Divya Vaswani DIVYA VASWANI INTERIORS divyavaswani.com

Susie Prince SUSIE MAE DESIGN susiemaedesign.com

“Use inexpensive white bedding.

There are many duvets and duvet covers at various price levels, even at HomeGoods! Go for a size up if possible so it’s nice and full on

“Use a closet as an office space. Now that so many of us are working from home more than ever, finding a dedicated workspace is a must! Oftentimes we have an overstuffed closet that needs a good purge anyway. By removing the closet doors and the shelving, you have an instant spot for a counter space/ ledge and a chair. Get creative and paint or add a peel- and-stick wallpaper for a colorful touch.” n

DESIGN NEWS n Mill Creek Residential’s Modera Prominence Apartment Community is now open in Buckhead. Located at the corner of Lenox and Piedmont Roads, it’s home to 318 studio, one-, two- and three-bedroom apartment homes, penthouse suites with rooftop access and 21,000 square feet of retail on the first floor. For more information, visit millcreekplaces.com/community/ modera-prominence. n Celebrating its 50th anniversary, the Cathedral Antiques Show returns in 2021 with fine period furniture, art, jewelry and accessories. Kicking off with a preview party, the Jan. 21-23

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January/February 2021 | Simply Buckhead

event includes a Flower Festival on Jan. 22 and a Tour of Homes on Jan. 23. For more information, visit cathedralantiques.org. n Although Trinity School’s Spotlight on Art’s Artist Market has been cancelled for 2021, you can still support Trinity School by purchasing a Spotlight pARTner Card for $100. The card offers a 20% discount at some of Atlanta’s renown art galleries from Jan. 25–30.

Participating galleries include Atlanta Artist Collective, Buckhead Art Company, Gregg Irby and Huff Harrington Art. For more information or to purchase, visit trinityatl.org/spotlight-on-art.

January/February 2021 | Simply Buckhead 

37

TA S T E MA K E R

Weezie offers 10 piping colors and monogram styles, allowing customers to create one-of-a-kind linens.

that launched two years of research and work into what Weezie is now.

There are tons of towel brands.

How is Weezie special?

We use super high-quality materials, but so do a lot of other brands. The way we treat our cotton and spin it into yarn [is our differentiator]. We infuse air into the yarn, which creates air pockets that expand every time you wash. Those air pockets absorb the water but also make the towel super fluffy. It’s got a great hand feel.

When did you know the business was going to work?

It sounds crazy, but it was the day we launched. We had an article in Fast Company and orders started flooding in. We knew we were onto something, and this wasn’t just a crazy idea.

Lindsey Johnson, co-founder of Weezie, is helping upgrade bath time

SO FRESH AND SO CLEAN STORY:

F

Jennifer Bradley Franklin

or some, baths and showers can be utilitarian: get clean, dry off and move on. Buckhead resident Lindsey Johnson, of cult-favorite towel and robe brand Weezie, is on a mission to change that. She launched the direct-to-consumer lifestyle brand in 2018 with friend and co-founder Liz Eichholz with a collection of ultra-soft and durable towels, bath sheets and robes. The offerings were a result of two years of intense research, market analysis and development (including finding a family-owned textile mill in

38

Portugal) to create both a superior product and a seamless online experience where shoppers can customize embroidery and piped edges in a variety of shades. Johnson, who started her career in the competitive world of finance and venture capital in New York City, is quick to admit that launching a lifestyle brand wasn’t a linear path. But with more than two years of success and the recent launch of Lil Weezie, a line of kidsized bath accessories, beach towels and robes, she hasn’t looked back.

January/February 2021 | Simply Buckhead

Why towels?

Liz, who has been a friend for over a decade, wanted me to start a business with her. She and I are opposites in terms of skill sets: I came from finance, and she’s worked on creative teams.

She had this pain point: She went to register for towels for her wedding and found the process overwhelming with a lot of brands, confusing jargon and not much help [from sales associates]. She texted friends to ask what brand they recommended, and no one had a great answer. That was the first conversation

How did you come up with the name Weezie?

It’s a family name for both Liz and me, with relatives named Louise and Eloise, but we wanted something more modern, fresh and unique because the monogrammed linen space can be very traditional. So we put a spin on it with a fun nickname, Weezie. It’s also a nod to the word “easy,” a hallmark of our purchase experience. We use it in our social media, saying things like “Take it Weezie” or “Weezie like Sunday morning.”

What advice would you give to someone thinking of launching a start-up?

Two things: Do your homework and, once you commit, don’t turn back. Most people told us this was a terrible idea, and we let them because we didn’t know yet. But once we’d done our research, it was easy to say, “I don’t care if you think it’s a horrible idea, I’m doing it anyway.” It’s so freeing, once you’ve made that decision, not to turn back. n WEEZIE 912.400.0340 (via text) weezietowels.com

FA S H ION | B E AU T Y | W E L L N E S S | TA S T E M A K E R

SIMPLY STYLISH

TASTEMAKER

Pretty in Pink P46

“We’re known for our imaginative use of color and original prints in easy-to-wear feminine silhouettes.” —Mollie Crosby Burch

Designer Mollie Crosby Burch in a dress from her easy, breezy clothing line, Crosby by Mollie Burch.

January/February 2021 | Simply Buckhead

39

FA S H I ON

ONE-OF-A-KIND

SPECS

EYEWEAR UPGRADE

W

hen most of us think about a wardrobe update, we tend to envision clothes and shoes, but upgrading your eyewear can make a big statement. After all, the eyes are one of the first things other people look at. “Eyewear is having a real moment and becoming a trending accessory with the increase in remote working and video calls,” says Kim Nemser, chief merchandising officer for Warby Parker, an eyewear retailer that offers virtual and at-home try-ons and has a storefront in Buckhead Village. “Give yourself permission to step outside of your comfort zone and try something new.”

Here, she shares tips to do just that.

Know your needs. When shopping for new eyewear, Nemser says the important things to consider are comfort, color and shape. “For comfort, ask yourself whether you have a preference of material or weight, and how long you’ll be wearing your glasses each day,” she says. Frames range from thin metal (think ultra-light

40

Modern-day renaissance man and Buckhead resident Billy Ayala has had a passion for skateboards since childhood. In 2015, he launched Boxframebilly, a line of bold, limited-edition sunglasses made from repurposed skateboards. “Boxframebilly is where fashion meets sustainability,” says Ayala.

Stay on-trend with new glasses this season STORY:

Jennifer Bradley Franklin

titanium) to chunkier styles in acetate, so you can choose according to what’s comfortable for you.

“Color is always a fun way to emphasize your style through your frames,” says Nemser. “Consider whether you’re looking for a bold accessory that really stands out or something more subtle like a crystal or metal frame.”

Shape up. “The best frame shape for your face is always the one that you feel the best in,” says Nemser. Some experts advocate juxtaposing the shape of the glasses with the shape of your face. “For example, more angular shapes like rectangle or square frames work well on rounder faces, and round or oval frame shapes look nice on more angular faces,” she says. It’s important to find frames that fit your face so they won’t slide or pinch your nose or temples. Many retailers offer frames that range from narrow to wide.

Setting trends. “Given that most of us are working remotely or spending

January/February 2021 | Simply Buckhead

more time in front of our computers on video calls, there’s more focus than ever on the face and therefore on having some fun with glasses,” Nemser says. Her team is seeing demand for bigger, thicker and bolder shapes, as well as bright and striking colors, particularly in shades of green.

Another trend? Blue-light filtering lenses, offered as an add-on to any Warby Parker frames.

Made in the shade. You can also get creative with sunglasses, though Nemser notes that classic aviators continue to be popular. “The shape is easy to wear, works on a variety of faces and never goes out of style,” she says, adding that oversize and mixed material combinations (think two-tone colors or metallic accents) sunnies are on the rise as well. When it comes to sunglasses, Nemser advises clients to consider what type of lens they need, from polarized to light-responsive to prescription lenses, and choose accordingly. n

Until now, he’s created 500 one-of-a-kind pairs per year, all with polarized and UVprotectant lenses (specialty lenses available on request), though he’s planning to increase production in 2021.

“I touch every single pair. Each pair is like [a member of my] extended family,” he says of the handmade frames. “Sometimes it’s hard to let them go.” Sunglasses start at $149 for a simple design; his highest ticket pair topped $2,000, and he’s always open to custom commissions.

The skateboards, typically made of durable maple wood, are donated by skateboarders and skate shops in Georgia and from across the country. While clients can purchase online, Ayala’s stylish spectacles are in such demand that they often sell out just from his Instagram posts at @boxframebilly.

Learn more at boxframebilly.com.

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January/February 2021 | Simply Buckhead 

41

B E AU TY

Ready For Your Close-Up How to look polished and camera-ready for video meetings

I

t’s natural to want to look our best, particularly at work, but what happens when the format changes?

Millions of people found themselves in this situation when in-person meetings switched to virtual ones last year.

This “Zoom effect” has had a dramatic impact on the beauty industry.

“We’ve seen an increased demand for all of our services across the board,” says Dr. Mark McKenna, founder and CEO of Ovme, a wellness and medical aesthetics practice in Buckhead.

“Video calls have essentially forced people around the country to look at themselves throughout the day, and for some people this has certainly been a call to action.”

Identify the concerns. Take note of what bothers you about your appearance when you’re onscreen.

That way, when you decide to engage professional help, you’ll be able to describe your frustrations. Not sure how to describe your issue? Take a screenshot. “The most common concerns we receive are regarding wrinkling, volume loss and skin texture or luminosity,” McKenna explains.

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STORY:

Start small. There are plenty of non-invasive ways to optimize your appearance onscreen. “The primary differences [in appearance on video versus in person] are related to lighting, dimension and angle,” McKenna says. “In most instances, lighting on video calls is less than optimal. This can lead to facial shadowing which can dramatize imperfections such as under-eye hollowing and nasal-labial creasing. The two-dimensional nature of video calls can blur the natural contours of the face, making features appear wide or ‘fat.’ Finally, the angle of most video calls is lower than the line of sight. This point of view is generally unflattering and can accentuate problem areas.” It might be possible to improve your look by elevating your computer and adjusting the room’s lighting.

Decide on a strategy. Considering engaging a doctor or medical aesthetician to optimize your appearance?

It’s smart to choose a practice that offers multiple modalities to address your concerns. For example, at Ovme, the issues McKenna mentioned may

January/February 2021 | Simply Buckhead

Jennifer Bradley Franklin

be addressed with some combination of medical aesthetics and medicalgrade skincare, an approach they’ve dubbed “All the Things.”

The category of medical aesthetics includes injectables, such as Botox and Dysport, both of which are neurotoxins that inhibit the muscular contractions that cause wrinkles. It also includes dermal fillers, such as Juvéderm, Restylane and Sculptra to address age-related volume loss that can make skin look like it’s sagging.

Other services, such as laser treatments, might also be beneficial, and the results can be dramatic. “Looking good isn’t actually about how you look; it’s about how you feel,” McKenna says. “When you feel good, your colleagues see it, the world sees it, and we all feel good. That energy is contagious.” n OVME 3167 Peachtree Road N.E., Suite G Atlanta 30305 770.504.6000 ovme.com

Smile! You’re On Camera Sarai Mateo, a Buckhead-based makeup artist and founder of The Standard Image, has seen an uptick in her clients’ requests for tutorials on how to look their best on camera. Worried about looking flawless for your time on-screen?

Here are some strategies to make sure you’re ready for your close-up. l Skin care is important. Make sure you start with a clean face that’s been well moisturized.

“Hydrated skin is a must,” Mateo explains. l Choose matte, rather than shiny, finishes “to avoid light reflection or the impression of sweat,” Mateo says. l If you’re looking for just the basics, make sure your kit includes concealer, tinted moisturizer, mascara and eyebrow and lip color. l Those who are adept at applying makeup for “real life” can try the more advanced technique of contouring the face and eyes to create more dimension on camera. l Mateo recommends investing in a ring light for your camera, computer or phone to give you a bright, glowing look.

Mateo offers video makeup tutorials for $85 for a 45-minute session, customized to each client’s needs.

The Standard Image 404.647.9652 setyourstandardatl.com

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W E L LN ES S

ALTERNATIVE SUPPORT TWO MORE WAYS TO REDUCE BACK PAIN CBD Relief “Most people use a CBD cream for two reasons: pain and inflammation.

Topical pain relievers are applied to the skin over the painful area and help to treat and manage the pain as a part of an overall treatment,” says Joe Salome, co-founder of The Georgia Hemp Company in Sandy Springs.

BACK ON TRACK Preventing and alleviating back pain

M

any people spend 16 to 18 hours each day in the office and in bed. Because of that time expenditure, the items you are sitting and sleeping on can have an enormous impact on the state of your neck and back. According to the American Chiropractic Association, back pain is the single leading cause of disability worldwide.

In the U.S., it accounts for more than 264 million lost work days in one year. While there are several serious conditions that can affect the back, such as inflammatory arthritis, the experts at ACA say most cases of back pain are mechanical.

“Americans are very busy, and we don’t always listen to or take care of our bodies. Even those that do might not be paying attention to body mechanics such as how they work at home, sit in a car or sleep at night,” says Kay Nuñez, general manager of Relax The Back in Buckhead.

Prevent future or alleviate existing back pain by evaluating your daily

44

digs for ways to improve posture.

Since the majority of time is spent in the office and bedroom, Nuñez recommends outfitting these spaces with ergonomic products to better support your body and reduce stress on the back. Office items can include an ergonomic chair that has armrests at the right height. “A lot of people put the armrests higher, but 90 degrees is best to reduce neck and shoulder tension,” Nuñez says.

A sit-to-stand desk is another option that allows your body to change position and promotes posture change throughout the day. “This adjustable desk also works well for shorter individuals, or a footrest might be an essential tool for sitting ergonomically at a regular desk,” Nuñez says.

As for the bedroom, simply upgrading neck pillows could make a huge difference. Consider getting fitted for a contoured one or anatomic cervical pillow that varies based on a person’s frame, build and sleeping posture.

“These pillows help with neck and

January/February 2021 | Simply Buckhead

STORY:

Karina Antenucci

shoulder issues of the spine,” Nuñez says. The bed itself is also a main component of sleep support. Nuñez recommends “alternative sleep” mattresses such as Tempur-Pedic and Technogel because they naturally envelop the contours of the body.

When dealing with back pain, you may need to consider a hybrid approach. In addition to home and office products, lifestyle factors such as inactivity, weight gain, smoking and wearing high heels could be contributing to the discomfort. Treatments such as chiropractic, physical therapy, massage, acupuncture, red light therapy and topical creams may help to manage or reduce pain. Before doing anything, pay a visit to your doctor to rule out something serious. n

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Light Therapy “Red light therapy has been around since the ’70s, originally gaining popularity for its healing potential after being used by NASA. It can be used to increase blood flow, reduce inflammation and relieve chronic and acute pain,” says Karl Chen, founder and CEO of Prism Light Pod, available at RegenCare in Buckhead. “Traditionally used as a hand-held device, Prism Light Pod is a powerful, full-body red light therapy system.”

RELAX THE BACK 3330 Piedmont Road N.E., Suite 2 Atlanta 30305 404.848.7977 relaxtheback.com

Prism Light Pod at RegenCare, $45 per session or $99 for three consecutive-day sessions (recommended), regencare.life

January/February 2021 | Simply Buckhead 

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TA S T E MA K E R

The latest collection of Crosby by Mollie Burch is inspired by the vibrant red rocks, desert flora and Sedona sunsets of the Southwest.

Pretty in Pink

STORY:

Mollie Burch with business partner Taylor Montes de Oca.

Ginger Strejcek

Designer Mollie Burch champions women with Crosby clothing line

W

hen Mollie Crosby Burch was a child, tottering around in high heels and oversized dresses for the sheer joy of it, little did she know her passion for fashion would evolve from pretend play to the real world. Today, the 30-year-old Atlanta designer is not only dressing women around the country in her easy, breezy clothing line, Crosby by Mollie Burch, she’s using the Insta-worthy brand to bring attention to a powerful social cause.

“We’re distinguished by our vibrant designs, so we coined the slogan #ShineYourBright to empower women to be their boldest, brightest selves in their own lives and in the lives of others,” Burch says. The company has also delivered on its founding mission to fight social injustice, donating more than $35,000 to Wellspring Living to aid victims of sex trafficking. “It’s an incredible nonprofit that works to rescue and restore the lives of women and children, and we’re honored to be able to give back and spread awareness.”

46

Burch attributes the brand’s success to a savvy business plan, hatched in collaboration with partner Taylor Montes de Oca when the two were fresh out of college, sharing an apartment in Buckhead. Both are University of Virginia alums; Burch majored in fashion, and Montes de Oca studied business.

The dynamic duo launched Crosby

by Mollie Burch in October 2015.

They’ve been profitable since sales began in 2016—an industry feat even more impressive in the wake of a global pandemic. With an Atlanta office and showroom that employs seven women, the nationally recognized brand is carried by 200 boutiques, including Poppy’s of Atlanta in Buckhead, where fashionistas flock for the preppy pieces. “We’ve been selling there since we started with an incredibly supportive customer base,” Burch says.

What’s to love about the line?

We’re known for our imaginative use of color and original prints in easy-to-

January/February 2021 | Simply Buckhead

wear feminine silhouettes. I’m super intentional about designing pieces that will appeal to women of all ages and body types, so the fits are flattering for mothers, daughters and grandmothers alike. Our goal is to create fun collections for modern-day women to celebrate who they are through what they wear. Customers love the flowy pieces, where the print is what’s really making the statement.

Where do you get your design ideas?

I have a great passion for art, and I’m inspired by the beauty of nature and unexpected color palettes. That’s where the prints come into play. I see the world in print, like walking down the sidewalk and seeing a cool leaf shadow.

I’ve had that lens for a long time. I also hone in on where trends are going and follow innovative designers like Wes Gordon at Carolina Herrera.

How did you get the ball rolling?

We had to nail down what our mission was and build out a step-by-step plan.

We formed an LLC and raised $20,000 through a Kickstarter campaign that paid for our first round of production of goods. I created 18 pieces for the first collection, and a sample set was made.

We hit the road and did 21 trunk shows all over the Southeast in a month’s time. We lived on wine and cheese boards and stayed with family and friends. The shows generated incredible wholesale demand, so that side of the business is bigger than the direct consumers we were reaching online.

What’s next?

We’re in the midst of launching our spring collection, and we have some exciting home collaborations in the works as we expand into a lifestyle brand with more products in our prints like throw pillows and curtains. We’ve got new headbands and masks, as well as a couple of graphic tees for lounging options. n CROSBY BY MOLLIE BURCH 404.302.0924 crosbybymollieburch.com

ON S TAG E

| ART

| LITERARY

SIMPLY ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

ON STAGE

Actress Livi Birch takes music lessons alongside her acting classes.

Toung Talent P48

11-year-old Livi Birch has certainly had some unimaginable adventures despite the COVID-19 pandemic this year.

Photo: Joann Vitelli

January/February 2021 | Simply Buckhead 

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O N S TAGE

Young Talent

STORY:

Jewel Wicker

PHOTO: Joann

Vitelli

11-YEAR-OLD LIVI BIRCH’S ACTING CAREER IS BEGINNING TO BLOOM

S

andy Springs resident and actress Livi Birch hasn’t been able to play games and bowl at the Main Event with friends this year, but the 11-year-old has certainly had some unimaginable adventures despite the COVID-19 pandemic.

Thanks to her burgeoning acting career, she’s walked the red carpet for a film, made an appearance in a popular HBO drama and visited a cheetah sanctuary while on set in South Africa—all in 2020.

Birch, who landed her first acting role—a spot in a Gorilla Glue commercial—just last year, has been quickly racking up roles while juggling virtual school at The Galloway School and playtime with her two brothers. In August, her first film, the faith-based Tulsa, arrived in theaters. Birch says she’s still getting used to seeing herself on the big screen. “It’s been really crazy. You’re in that movie, and people

48

are seeing you,” she says. The release gave viewers a chance to see Birch star as a child grappling with the loss of her mother while trying to navigate a relationship with a father she never knew. In her next major role, she’ll appear in a TV Christmas film titled “A Nashville Christmas Carol” for the Hallmark Channel.

Recently, Birch appeared in a minor role during an episode of HBO’s popular series “Lovecraft Country.”

The show, which blends the harsh realities of African Americans with the horrors of H. P. Lovecraft, turned out to be a bit too scary for her to watch, so she hasn’t seen the full episode, just the trailer she appears in.

When Birch speaks of her schedule, it’s with a sense of delight. “I’m doing school virtually, callbacks virtually and some acting classes virtually,” she says. The school offers flexibility so if she has an audition, she can

January/February 2021 | Simply Buckhead

focus on that. But typically, the rest of her day is spent on homework, and shortly thereafter, Birch is free to play or ride her bike.

Like most families, the Birches have had to get creative with their ideas of fun this year. They’ve spent a lot of time walking around Chastain Park together. Frozen yogurt from Menchie’s or a rolled cookies and cream and chocolate ice cream treat from Sweet Charlie’s has replaced the family’s trips to the former Horseradish Grill, the Buckhead restaurant that reopened as The Chastain.

Just like school and family time, Birch’s career training has changed, too. The virtual acting and music classes include sessions with Jan “Mama Jan” Smith, a vocal coach who has worked with artists such as Usher and Justin Bieber, and attending remote sessions with Catapult Acting and The Working Actor Group

(TWAG) in Sandy Springs.

Birch’s mom, Joanna, says the classes her daughter takes have helped develop her craft. “We’d had no training when she booked the first thing; we’d never thought about doing that.

It was a real ah-ha moment,” she says.

After appearing in Tulsa, Birch used some of her earnings to take an acting class with a Disney theme. The young actress, who admires actors such as Zendaya and Jamie Foxx, dreams of appearing in a Nickelodeon or Disney show one day.

It’s unclear whether or not the pandemic will have subsided by spring 2021 when Birch’s next film, the faithbased romantic drama Redeeming Love, is released, but the family will continue to celebrate all the success the young actress has had thus far. “It’s just kind of surreal,” Birch says of her past year. “When I talk about it, it’s like ‘Wow, that’s really happening.’” n

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January/February 2021 | Simply Buckhead 

49

Caleb Jones

ART

Cassette Capsule Sculpture artist David Schwartz forever captures his hip hop gods STORY:

I

Nicole Letts

nspired by statues of the Greek god Atlas bearing the weight of the celestial world, sculpture artist and Buckhead resident David Schwartz created his own deity sculpture to celebrate hip hop culture and tell its story.

Currently on display at Buckhead Art & Company (price available upon request), Rhyme Capsule is a 1,200-pound Italian marble and lead-free optic crystal (often used for camera lenses because of its clarity) sculpture depicting an ambiguous b-boy holding a translucent boom box encapsulating the most iconic hip hop

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cassettes of the ’80s and ’90s. This modern Atlas wears a hoodie, jeans and Jordans, the original viral sneaker.

“He represents the fan. He’s the champion. He says to the other gods, ‘This is my offering. These guys, right here, are the gods of hip hop,’” says Schwartz of the popular piece that was recently featured as a part of Nustalgia at The Vault Art Gallery and Studios, an interactive exhibit that showcased the hip hop and pop culture collection of Larry “Nuface” Compton.

To create the sculpture, Schwartz collaborated with material experts to bring his vision to life. His marble partner used a machine to create the

January/February 2021 | Simply Buckhead

base before hand-carving the more intricate details. Once the materials arrived for the boombox, Schwartz painstakingly filled it with his collection of 180 tapes.

“There’s a lot of special work in here that should be preserved and celebrated,” he says. Artists such as NAS, Jay-Z, Lauryn Hill and The Notorious B.I.G. are represented, some more than once.

The top row of tapes is Schwartz’s favorites. “As a kid, when you got one of these tapes for a present or you could scrape enough money to buy one, it was really special,” says the 41-year-old artist. Like many from the cassette and compact disc generation, Schwartz describes listening to the album, liner notes in hand, picking

apart every detail. “Back then, before you could connect with your favorite artist on Instagram, that cover was the closest you could get to them.”

Schwartz knows a thing or two about meeting your musical heroes.

As a 20-something, Schwartz, along with his hip hop group mates known as the Fonky Bald Heads, toured with Prince and opened the legend’s shows. While living in Minneapolis, hometown of the Purple Rain singer, he became friends with Prince’s bandmates and began making music with them. The tunes eventually found their way to the artist himself, and Schwartz ended up rapping on two Prince albums and appearing in Prince’s music video for “The Daisy Chain.”

While he reveled in being a musical artist, in 2002, Schwartz found himself at a crossroads. He could continue working with Prince and fellow artist KayGee from Naughty by Nature on a solo album, or he could quit the industry and put his creativity towards graphic design and art direction to “start making some real money.” He chose the latter, embracing a more traditional career. He moved to Atlanta to design album covers and stayed for eight years before moving to Los Angeles for a decade and working at ad agencies with clients such as Paris Hilton and Gucci Mane.

Despite industry success out west, Schwartz soon found himself longing for the physicality and longevity of tangible materials. Speaking about his digital and print design work, he says, “It was here today and gone in a month. It just isn’t the same as having something you can appreciate every day that changes the mood of a room.” He began his work on Rhyme Capsule as a creative outlet and completed the piece in 2019, just before returning to Atlanta with his wife, Ania.

Schwartz’s affinity with the music that shaped his childhood doesn’t end with hip hop. “I hope to create more pieces in this series as well as make other art that isn’t so extravagant and big, so that it’s more accessible in size and value for all collectors,” he says. n BUCKHEAD ART & COMPANY 288 Buckhead Ave. N.E. Atlanta 30305 404.883.3670 buckheadartcompany.com rhymecapsule.com

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L I T E R ARY

DETAILS ATLANTA-FULTON PUBLIC LIBRARY BRANCHES Buckhead 269 Buckhead Ave. 404.613.7350 Northside 3295 Northside Parkway 404.613.6870

Heard a Good Book Lately?

Sandy Springs 395 Mount Vernon Highway 404.612.7000 afpls.org DEKALB COUNTY PUBLIC LIBRARY BRANCHES Chamblee 4115 Clairmont Road 770.936.1380 Dunwoody 5339 Chamblee-Dunwoody Road 770.512.4640 dekalblibrary.org

LOCAL LIBRARIES’ ONLINE PROGRAMMING IS FLOURISHING

U

sually a beehive of activity, the Buckhead branch of the Atlanta-Fulton County Public Library has been somberly quiet for months. The pandemic has quashed the laughter of kids enjoying story time entertainment, teens clicking away on computers and patrons plopping piles of books on the checkout counter. While the public has been banned from crossing the library’s threshold, it doesn’t mean they’ve had to forgo the joys of reading, checking out videos or meeting up with friends for a book club gabfest. The Atlanta-Fulton branches on Northside Drive and Buckhead Avenue in Buckhead and Mount Vernon Highway in Sandy Springs are still conducting business, just not business as usual.

“The library staff have been hard at work creating new and inventive ways to serve our patrons during this challenging time,” says Fulton County System Director Gayle Holloman. “I am pleased with all the work staff has put into creating story times, craft programs, read-aloud programs for adults and teens, even cooking and fitness! Book clubs are meeting

by Zoom, and our curbside services are allowing us to get books in patrons’ hands.”

Creativity and imagination have

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become new skills for librarians, notes Teryn Gilliam, who oversees eight Atlanta-Fulton branches, including those in Buckhead. “All our programming is done by our staff, and we’ve had to step up our game,” she says.

“Our librarians are doing yoga, Zumba and crafting programs. They’ve also become digital production and editing experts. Everyone has stepped up to the plate in some form or fashion.”

The libraries have long offered a plethora of virtual connections.

Audio books, ebooks and movies are available with a library card. Classes on cooking, kitchen chemistry, fitness and more are offered throughout the week. Genre-specific book clubs are meeting online to discuss mysteries, sci-fi stories and true crime accounts.

And kids programming has been especially popular, says Gilliam. “We have streaming story times that give children a bit of a break. They can view puppet shows, hear multiple books and enjoy a song, dance or puppet activity after each one.

And we also have ‘Book Break’ for adults, where we read about 30 to 40 minutes of short stories, a book chapter or poems.”

The Chamblee and Dunwoody branches of the DeKalb Public library also offer curbside pickups, online

January/February 2021 | Simply Buckhead

STORY:

H.M. Cauley

Outreach Librarian Meagan Stone hosts streaming story times from the Sandy Springs Library to keep kids at home engaged.

book clubs, teen trivia contests and streaming workshops on topics such as creating photo journals and writing resumes. Kids can tune into weekly story times, including one in Spanish, and download a “Stay Home” calendar of daily activities.

The recently-added Hoopla service provides downloadable movies, music, graphic novels, ebooks and audiobooks.

The online programs have generated so much interest that Gilliam doesn’t see them going away—even when the pandemic does. “They’re overwhelmingly popular, so even when we get back to normal, full service, we’re going to continue virtual programming to some degree.” n

How to Get a Library Card Online library cards are available to DeKalb residents. Start with the generic information form online, then contact a local branch to complete the registration. Atlanta-Fulton also has a brief online registration from. Cards give access to ebooks, audiobooks, videos, newspapers and magazines, educational videos and homework help for kids.

Atlanta-Fulton also offers access to virtual programs with a library card through its Facebook page, facebook.com/fulcolibrary.

COV ER S TORY

Wardrobe: Mia is wearing Zuma Sweatpant ($145) and Ojai Hoodie ($170) by Velvet JG and Bibi Sneakers ($275) by Veronica Beard, all courtesy Tootsies.

Modern Day

Makeovers FIVE LOCAL TRANSFORMATIONS AND EXPERT TIPS FOR LIFESTYLE UPGRADES With the advent of every new year, it’s tradition to cast an optimizing eye over every element of our lives. Rather than overhaul everything (overwhelming!), we tapped five locals to tackle just one area—nutrition, beauty, wardrobe, skincare or fitness—and paired them with top-of-their field experts. Read on for our brave subjects’ transformations and pro tips to use for yourself.

PHOTO: Sara

Hanna

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COV E R S T ORY

FITNES S M AK EOVE R

The Journey Begins Pinnacle Fitness is helping a local resident put herself first for the first time STORY:

Amy Meadows

PHOTOS: Monica

Naranjo

F

or 10 years, Jeanna McKnight has put her family first, caring for her grandmother and her ailing parents. But when her beloved grandmother passed away in June, she knew she finally had to listen to the voice inside that’s been trying to get her attention. “I’ve been having this feeling internally. My soul has been feeling like I need to break free and do something different,” she says.

“I’ve been taking care of my family, 10 years going back and forth, and I forgot how to take care of myself.”

Now 45, McKnight decided it was time to bring her health to the forefront. While she has been exercising and trying to lose weight, she recognized that she needs some direction and an extra push to get her on track in terms of her personal fitness. She connected with Jamie Bodner, owner of Pinnacle Fitness in Buckhead, who will be her guide on a journey to take her fitness and overall health to new heights.

“Jeanna has an amazing and athletic figure, and we want to meet her where she is,” Bodner explains.

The pair started with a consultation that included the use of Pinnacle Fitness’ InBody 570 Body Composition Analyzer. The scan provided by the state-of-the-art machine goes far beyond weight; it measures fat, lean body mass, minerals and retained water, giving a comprehensive picture of an individual’s health.

From there, Bodner created a personalized fitness plan that has McKnight working out with Pinnacle Fitness’ trainers several days a week.

She will also do specific exercises at home on the days she doesn’t go to the gym. In the beginning, the focus is on the full body, in many cases using McKnight’s own body weight during the exercises; as progress is made, the exercises become more targeted to specific muscle groups. The key, Bodner says, is that McKnight gets maximum results for minimum effort.

“We need to challenge the body, but we need to energize, not brutalize. We want to get the muscles to change so they mobilize and use

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the body’s stored fat, and we want to do it in a safe environment,” says Bodner, who also notes that the process should be slow, with the first few weeks of a fitness plan concentrating on preconditioning before ramping up to include exercises that incorporate additional movements, repetitions and weight.

“I need this kind of plan,” says McKnight. “I need someone to say, ‘Jeanna, do this and this on these days, and you’ll see results.’ I’ve been doing it on my own, and I really need the structure.”

She’s also taking photos of her daily intake as a food journal, which Bodner recommends to help clients understand their own eating habits so they can make necessary changes to complement their fitness plans.

“People have habits, and they gravitate to certain foods,” says Bodner. “We can change those habits one meal at a time. You don’t have to change everything in one day.”

While McKnight knows how many pounds she would like to lose as she gets underway, Bodner notes that it may take three to four months before she sees major changes from her new fitness regime. However, along the way, he expects her to feel stronger and notice small differences in the way she looks and

January/February 2021 | Simply Buckhead

Jeanna McKnight is in the first phase of her new workout routine at Pinnacle Fitness, which will help her transform her body over the coming months.

SHAKE UP YOUR FITNESS ROUTINE If you’re looking for inspiration to get moving on a long-planned fitness journey, trainer Jamie Bodner offers these tips. l Don’t overthink it. You know

you need to exercise, so just get up and do it. l Buddy up with someone who

will hold you accountable as you try to reach your goals. l Consider working with a profes-

sional trainer who can help you personalize your plan.

feels. And every six weeks, she will have another body scan to measure her body and its changes.

“It’s going to be long-term for me to get to my healthy point,” McKnight says. “I see myself virtually where I want to be, and it’s making me happy knowing that I’m getting there. My personal goal is to be healthy. That’s one of the most exciting parts. I’m getting on this journey to getting back to myself.” n

l Working out harder and longer

Pinnacle Fitness 3215 Cains Hill Place N.W. Atlanta 30305 404.228.3705 pinnaclefitnessgym.com

or work personally with a trainer, you can lose weight and improve your health. Just add movement and be mindful of the food you choose to fuel your body.

won’t necessarily make you lose weight faster. Sometimes cutting back on the time and intensity of a workout will yield better results because your body will respond more to efficiency and the specific exercises you do. l Don’t compare yourself to others.

This is a personal journey that’s about making yourself better every day—not basing your success on what you see on social media. l Even if you can’t go to a gym

SKIN U PG R AD E

C OVE R ST ORY

Fresh Face Forward How a med spa novice dove skin-deep into his first facial STORY:

Taylor Heard

PHOTOS: Sara

Hanna

PRO TIPS Aesthetician Lauren Nee shares her skincare insights.

T

o some, skincare comes as easily as spewing every lyric to Journey’s “Don’t Stop Believin’.” But for others, it’s more like a far-too-relatable version of Aladdin’s “A Whole New World.” The latter rang true for 32-year-old Alex Bayer, who took his first foray into the world of medical spas with a recent facial and laser treatment at Spa Sydell Integrative Aesthetics in Buckhead.

“I was very unsure of what to expect,” says Bayer. “I hate to say it, but I’m the standard, basic guy that washes his face after he works out, and that’s pretty much all I do. My girlfriend and I got really bored during quarantine in the beginning. She has one of those [facial] steamers, so we did that one day, but that’s as far as I’ve ever gone with skincare before.”

As the saying goes, not all heroes wear capes, and luckily, Spa Sydell’s licensed aesthetician and assistant cosmetic laser technician Lauren Nee walked Bayer through the entire process, starting with a 10-minute consultation to get to know his current skincare routine and background with products. Once Bayer’s minimalist approach to a daily regimen was established, Nee was able to tailor a treatment to most benefit his skin. “I decided to give Alex a HydraFacial, and then I also added in a laser treatment called Photogenesis,” explains Nee. “I wanted to do something that wasn’t going to be super aggressive and that would be a good step up from his current, basic routine, as well as something that he could come in and do on a regular basis with no downtime.”

Following the 35-minute facial, even Bayer had to admit he was impressed and is more open to getting another facial now that he’s been through the experience with a professional aesthetician. To help him maintain his newfound, healthy glow, Nee sent Bayer home with a few Sydell Skincare signatures (think: a starter skincare pack), including a rose water and white tea gel cleanser ($25), Ultrasome C-20 vitamin C serum ($77) and Antibac Protectant ($42). “It’s great

How to care for your skin in the winter: “Make sure you’re switching to a heavier moisturizer, especially at night, to help combat the colder weather. Also look into more aggressive facial treatments, like lasers and chemical peels; it’s a good time to do it when your skin isn’t as exposed to the sun. And stay hydrated!”

Which skincare products are must-haves: “I always recommend including active ingredients in your skincare routine as a preventative measure against aging. SPF is one, if not the most, important anti-aging product that you can use on your skin. Vitamin C is another great active ingredient. It’s an antioxidant that helps protect your skin against environmental factors like pollution or smoke. It can also aid in lightening dark spots and hyperpigmentation. Retinol is another good active that I’d recommend.

It forces skin-cell turnover to bring fresh skin cells to the surface and fight signs of aging, such as fine lines and wrinkles.”

What treatments to consider for your age group: “Around the age of 30, the aging process starts to kick in. It’s a good time to consider more aggressive aesthetic treatments beyond routine facials, [such as] laser or microneedling—things that are going to help with the production of collagen and elastin to fight the signs of aging. In their late 40s and 50s, clients tend to have more concerns with skin laxity, where you see your skin start to sag in some areas. Non-invasive treatments, like Ultherapy, can be really helpful. It uses ultrasound technology to create collagen to help lift and tighten the skin.”

for people to come and see me, but it’s also important to have a homecare routine and to be consistent with that,” notes Nee. “Doing homecare on a consistent basis is going to help you maintain what you’re getting from your facial and also extend the lifetime of that facial.” n

Aesthetician Lauren Nee performed Alex Bayer’s first facial at the Buckhead location of Spa Sydell.

Spa Sydell Integrative Aesthetics 3005 Peachtree Road N.E., Suite E Atlanta 30305 404.255.7727 spasydell.com

When to think about injectables: “If you still see those lines present on your face in a resting state, it may be time to consider injectables, such as Botox in the forehead, to prevent those wrinkles and get rid of them. Filler-type injectables can help more with loss of volume in the cheek area or lower face. All of these are elective, of course, but around the age of 30, based on your concern, would be a good time to consider injectables, since the skin-cell turnover and collagen production starts to slow.”

January/February 2021 | Simply Buckhead

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COV E R S T ORY

WA RD ROBE RES E T

Left: “The key piece that we put on Magen was this long, cashmere, tie-dye duster,” says Davis, who set off the ensemble with layered necklaces.

Fresh Start

How one Atlantan found solace—and a new style—in revamping her closet STORY:

Taylor Heard

PHOTOS: Sara

“I

Hanna

f you’re staring at a closet packed with clothes, and you’re saying to yourself, ‘I have nothing to wear that feels like me,’ then it’s time for something to change,” says Magen McRoberts, a business owner, wife and mom to a 2-yearold who, like many, felt in desperate

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need of a reset going into 2021.

As the founder and CEO of Boundless Impact Agency (formerly Auction Eventworks), an event management firm specializing in fundraising for nonprofits, McRoberts’ lifestyle tended to dictate her wardrobe.

“My fashion to date has been very responsive to my work,” she explains.

“I dress for a Zoom call, I dress to go meet a client, I dress to do a speaking engagement. I have an entire closet filled with gala gowns. My style

January/February 2021 | Simply Buckhead

has been very dependent on everyone else around me, and I’m ready to re-find myself and my self-expression through my style—especially now that my business has evolved—to say, ‘This is who I am, and you can fit into my mold instead of me trying to fit into yours.’”

Enter Sabrina Davis, expert stylist and owner of Range Boutique, who came to the retail rescue for McRoberts with an afternoon of personal styling at her storefront that’s been a staple in Buckhead for more than a decade. “Walking in, I definitely felt overwhelmed,” says McRoberts, “Sabrina really relaxed me. She just approached me with warmth, ease and grace.”

During the one-on-one appointment, Davis walked McRoberts through the store, selecting pieces for her to try on with an explanation for each, while McRoberts also pulled items that caught her eye.

Davis provided her expert opinions along the way, ultimately helping McRoberts move comfortably out of her comfort zone. For the final look, McRoberts says, “Sabrina got me into an outfit I never would have picked for myself—and I loved it! I left feeling like I wanted to go meet my friends for cocktails.”

While McRoberts will be the first to admit she avoids shopping, the rebranding of her business felt like the perfect opportunity to rebrand herself, especially after 2020, when the seventh-generation Atlantan faced the loss of a sibling to suicide and a disruption to the events industry that drives her business, not to mention having to overcome these emotional challenges while raising a 2-yearold daughter. “This past year was a culmination of feeling like I was being pummeled, and that reflected in all kinds of areas, including my health and appearance; I was feeling wrung out,” she says. “Since this past fall, I’ve tried to focus on how I

Above: “The Spanx leggings were a nobrainer,” explains Davis. “She can throw them on with sneakers or pumps.”

CLOSET COUNSEL Fashion maven and Range Boutique owner Sabrina Davis shares the must-haves for every closet.

Not every piece is meant to be a showstopper. “When putting together an outfit, oftentimes it’s best to only have up to two pieces that are ‘wow.’ If every piece you wear is a statement, each piece will get lost in the overall look and miss having the impact it was designed for.”

Great-fitting denim is essential. “It’s important to try on multiple styles of denim to make sure you have a pair that fits perfectly. They will become your go-to when you’re in a rush because all you have to do is add a top, shoes and accessories, and you’re out the door, styled to perfection.”

Pick a great T-shirt. “Make sure it feels good. It’s not too baggy but also not too fitted, is thick enough to survive through the wash, and you feel great in it. Great basics make getting ready easier and are a key essential in any closet.”

Remember to accessorize.

“Accessories can take an outfit from plain to amazing instantly.

Good shoes with a complementary belt make styling a breeze, so make sure you have a few sets of both pieces in key colors like black, tan or nude and gray.”

Seek a professional’s help. “Work with a stylist or retail sales associate who truly cares about styling for your body type and lifestyle, so you always look and feel fabulous.”

can do more self-care and provide more space for myself to breathe.

I’m finally feeling like I’m coming up for air, and this wardrobe reboot was just a refreshing reminder of how important it is to take care of myself beyond my child, my husband, my clients and my entire team.” n Range Boutique 3872 Roswell Road N.E. 404.816.8230 rangeboutique.com

BE AUT Y MA K EOVE R

C OVE R ST ORY

A Cut Above A beauty newcomer gets a hair and makeup upgrade STORY:

H.M. Cauley

PHOTO: Sara

I

Hanna

t takes a certain degree of courage to sign on for a beauty makeover since the results may or not be welcomed. But Libby Butgereit admitted she had none of that trepidation about being the subject for our hair and makeup redo.

“Honestly, I was excited,” says the 28-year-old from Chastain Park. “I’ve seen shows that make people over, and I always thought I could use a little boost.” Butgereit, who works for Lululemon and peddles her photography on the side, added that she was open to professional suggestions.

“I’m a low-maintenance person who’s always on the go, and I’ve never put on foundation except for prom, and I’ve never colored my hair,” she says. “I think part of the reason was that my mom passed away when I was 14, and I never had that bond with a mom who said, ‘This is how you do your hair and makeup.’ It didn’t go too well when I tried it, and I haven’t changed much over the years.

I don’t have a regular person who cuts my hair or does my makeup.”

Butgereit told stylist Erik Hedrick, co-owner of Buckhead’s Lotus Hair Artisans, and makeup guru Julian Allemeier, owner of Julian’s Cosmetics & Skincare in Brookhaven, “Do what you want.”

Butgereit’s unfussy style was easy to work with, says Hedrick. “She has natural hair that has never been colored—a rare, rare thing!—and that gave us a clean canvas to work with.

I had no worries about pre-existing colors or bleach to deal with.”

Hedrick’s first impression was that his subject’s light brown locks that fell mid-back needed a color boost. “The hair had no warmth to it. We didn’t want anything drastically different, so I highlighted it with Redken about a half [shade] lighter than her natural hair. It looks like she spent the summer at the beach, but it’s very subtle.”

Hedrick concentrated the lightness on the ends. “That left a lot of her own color so it wasn’t too shocking to her,” he says. “Then we cut off about 3.5 inches, added some curtain bangs that drape over to one side and did some visible

layering to give it some charisma.

To finish, we curled it so it falls just below her shoulders.”

While the color was processing, Allemeier worked on makeup. “I wanted to do something that looked natural.

Putting someone in total glam when they don’t typically wear [much] makeup would be a bit of a shock.

We went for very clean and polished.”

Butgereit has “flawless skin,” says Allemeier, but a few blemishes needed coverage before applying foundation, the crucial element. “I picked one that matched her natural skin tone so it flows from the face to the neck.

After that, the rest was pretty easy.”

Butgereit’s concern was her hooded eyelids. “It’s hard to do everyday makeup; I usually just put on eyeliner and mascara. So I asked specifically what I should do with my eyeshadow so you can see it.”

Allemeier had the answer, using a blend of muted brown, brownish orange and a touch of plum.

“We put the color above, not in the crease, to achieve the appearance of wider eyes. The key thing in getting a 3-dimensional look is to use multiple colors, and these gave a nice wash of color. They made her green eyes pop and look amazing.”

Allemeier also opted for brushing shadow beneath the eyes rather than using liner. He then filled out Butgereit’s brows and downplayed the color on the lips with a neutral shade—a pandemic-inspired approach to draw attention to the eyes when a mask covers the mouth.

Those approaches have Butgereit

NEW YEAR, NEW HAIR Thinking about a change? Erik Hedrick, stylist and co-owner of Buckhead’s Lotus Hair Artisans, offers suggestions.

A consultation is critical. “This may be the most important part of a service. Everything we do is customized to the client, and every situation is different. I know some [stylists] don’t like to see pictures [for inspiration], but I love them. Bring them!”

Start with repairing pandemic damage.

Many people have given up on their regular hair care routines. “Now it’s winter, and we’re inside where forced heat dries out hair. Moisturizing is critical, especially for colored hair.

Moisturizing masks are great, as are

rethinking her daily routine. “My eyes look so natural; it wasn’t heavy,” she says. “The foundation wasn’t heavy, either. It wasn’t a ton of work, and I could do it.”

She’s also happy with the final color and cut that’s still long enough to pull into a ponytail.

“I was very against coloring my hair, but I love it! What Erik did fades into my natural color and gives some dimension rather than just having long brown hair. The sweeping bangs frame my face, and the layers give my hair more definition.” n moisturizing shampoos and volumizing conditioners. And always have [product] in your hair before blow drying so the heat takes the moisture out of the product, not the hair.”

Don’t be seduced by off-the-shelf coloring. Hedrick cautions against the DIY approach and recommends leaving the process to the pros.

“You can put the same color on 10 different people and you’ll get 10 different results. Invest in products that keep hair healthy and strong, and support and maintain the color.

Lotus Hair Artisans 3655 Roswell Road, Suite 310 Atlanta 30342 404.846.6111 lotushairartisans.com

COLOR ME REFRESHED Julian Allemeier, owner of Julian’s Cosmetics & Skincare in Brookhaven, has a few ideas for the new year.

Primed for success. “First of all, a clean surface is the best way to start. And no canvas looks good if it’s not primed properly. Primer makes pores look smaller and helps foundation lie better on the skin. It will also make the foundation last longer and keep it in place.”

Incorporate more color around the eyes. “Before COVID, it was all about brightening the lips, but we’re all wearing masks now. So play up the eyes with a little more color.”

Fill in the brows. “Again, you could get away with not doing [much to the brows] since the lips were the focus [when people didn’t wear masks].

Now, choose a color that matches the darker tones in your hair and add more color with a pencil or powder.”

Not sure how to pair color with your natural shades? Consult a trusted makeup artist for expert advice.

Add definition. “A liner defines the shape of the eyes, so start there. Then add mascara to make them pop.”

Julian’s Cosmetics & Skincare 705 Town Blvd.

Brookhaven 30319 470.355.3291 julianscosmetics.com

January/February 2021 | Simply Buckhead

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COV E R S T ORY

NU TRITION M AKEOVE R

Cade Parian (left) has lost more than 60 pounds thanks to the delicious meals created and tested by Perfectly Portioned Nutrition’s highly skilled team, led

by RDN Jessica Todd (right).

A Delicious Makeover

How a Brookhaven company changed one man’s relationship with food STORY:

C

Amy Meadows

ade Parian admits with a chuckle that he sometimes licks his Perfectly Portioned Nutrition meal containers clean.

He still can’t believe how good the food tastes—or how satisfied he feels after he finishes eating. And he notes that after just six months of enjoying the company’s prepared meals, usually for lunch and dinner, he’s lost 60 pounds and continues to lose weight like never before.

“I was always trying to lose weight, and I thought you had to do [a diet] perfectly. I did no carb, low carb, Keto. One tiny failure would cause my entire Jenga puzzle to come crashing to the ground,” Parian recalls. “Now I have a new relationship with food.”

It was during the COVID lockdowns last spring that Parian, a selfdescribed “husky guy” for most of his life, decided to focus on his health.

His longtime physician suggested that he speak to a dietician to help him reach his weightloss goals. That dietician recommended that Parian turn to Perfectly Portioned Nutrition, a Brookhaven-based company founded by Registered Dietician Nutritionist Jessica Todd, a clinical assistant professor and director of the coordinated program in nutrition at Georgia State University. Her goal when she launched two years ago was to create a resource to provide

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delicious prepped meals in appropriate portions for people who have specific wellness needs or don’t have the time or desire to cook daily.

“This is a one-stop-shop for all things nutrition,” Todd explains.

“There’s a misconception that to be healthy, you can’t have this or that.

But that’s not what nutrition is about.

There’s no magic potion, but you can follow what’s been established and what you know to be scientifically correct. We offer a product that is delicious and controlled so you have all of the nutrients, healthy fat, quality protein and fiber-rich complex carbohydrates you need.”

For Parian, who also added walking and cycling to his personal health plan, the variety of flavorful, complete meals produced by Todd and her team of chefs and dietary professionals has made a huge difference in his journey. He chooses from six menu items online each week that include seafood, pork, beef and poultry options. Nothing is off-limits, from potatoes and pasta to Italian and Mexican entrees, and new recipes are tested and offered regularly. He can even select a la carte breakfast items as an add-on. The fresh meals, which last up to five days in the refrigerator and also are freezer friendly, are delivered to his door and come with detailed reheating instructions. And because the plan is tailored to each client’s particular needs, it can be modified week to week.

January/February 2021 | Simply Buckhead

“The [negative] way you think about food can take hold, and you just don’t enjoy it anymore. You can become obsessive about eating ‘perfectly.’ But you have to give yourself grace and know that food is nourishing. Food is OK,” says Todd, who recommends that individuals work with a registered dietician nutritionist (RDN) so they can get off the diet roller coaster for good. For those who have never seen an RDN, Perfectly Portioned Nutrition offers that service through its Perfectly Portioned Wellness division, which includes an initial dietary consultation and a personalized nutrition and wellness plan. “Everyone is different, and you have to be ready to make the change. You may contemplate it for a long time and know you need to do it, but you’re not ready yet,” she continues. “Cade was ready.”

Now heading into maintenance mode because of his significant weight loss, Parian knows that he’ll never go back to the way he was before. “Weight loss is a marathon, not a sprint. I had to learn that through this process,” he says. “When you’re overweight, you don’t even know what an adequate portion of food is. You lose the ability to know that after so many years of eating unhealthily. But the meals from Perfectly Portioned Nutrition had everything. It was a complete shift in mindset. Now I see that food is fuel. Perfectly Portioned gives you what your body needs—and you still get to eat everything you like.” n

WORDS TO THE WISE Registered Dietician Nutritionist Jessica Todd offers advice for getting started on your own upgraded nutrition journey. l Find a credentialed registered

dietician nutritionist to give you the right information along the way. l Take a deep dive into your medi-

cal history before starting a plan; your short-term and long-term goals will be affected by everything from your blood pressure and weight to the medications you take and how much you exercise. l Don’t turn to social media

for information. Much of it is incomplete or misconstrued. l Set realistic expectations

and understand that sustainable change takes time. l Not every day will be perfect;

pick yourself up and try again, and you will see results. l Recognize that food is good for

you. It can be delicious, and you can have healthy fat, protein and carbs. You just need it in the right amounts and combinations. l Know that it takes time to learn

to listen to your body when you’ve been ignoring it for so long. When you learn what it feels like to feel great, you won’t want to go back.

Perfectly Portioned Nutrition 860 Johnson Ferry Road, Suite 215 Atlanta 30342 209.730.3429 perfectlyportionednutrition.com

RE V I E W | DRI N K S | F O ODI E J OU RNA L | TA S T E M A K E R | RE S TAU R A N T S

SIMPLY DELICIOUS

RESTAURANT REVIEW

Showtime in Chamblee P60

In the midst of Chamblee's ever-evolving culinary landscape, Yuzu's quality and consistency are attractive.

The lofty ceilings juxtaposed with the intimate, down-toearth vibe create an ideal setting for pristine sushi and sashimi.

Photo: Joann Vitelli

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REVIEW

Above: Loyalists thrill over chef Kenny Kim’s sushi and inventive Japanese dishes as well as his wife Anna's efficiency and grace.

Right: With its crunchy fried shrimp and silky avocado, the dragon roll is one of chef Kim's signatures and a perennial customer favorite.

Showtime in Chamblee Tradition meets transition at Yuzu Sushi STORY:

Rebecca Cha PHOTOS: Joann Vitelli

J

ust drive down Peachtree Boulevard near Chamblee Tucker and gaze at the spankin’ new developments going up, and it’s easy to see Chamblee as the hippest, most diverse community in recent ITP history.

Goths and geeks as well as soccer moms.

They’re all here, usually congregating in the produce department at the Whole Foods.

Chamblee, as they say, is on the verge.

The earnest, unassuming Yuzu Sushi fits in perfectly. Located on the first floor of The Oliver, the chic, retro-style apartment complex, Yuzu draws crowds of hungry bohemians every night, clamoring for Chef Kenny Kim’s sushi, rolls and inventive Japanese dishes. Known-by-name customers gravitate toward host Anna Kim, his wife, who runs Yuzu with efficiency and grace. Anna transformed the vast, impersonal space into an intimate sushi bar-centric dining room with cozy tables basking in rays of recessed lighting and inviting banquettes cloaked in apple blossom upholstery. Walls of traditional Japanese art with geishas, samurais

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January/February 2021 | Simply Buckhead

Yuzu's special spicy rainbow roll is a colorful palate pleaser.

and landscapes as subjects create an ambience of authenticity.

Menu-wise, a similar ethos prevails. There were moments during my visits when I recalled Jiro Dreams of Sushi, the 2011 documentary about the eponymous sushi master. Like Chef Jiro, Kim exhibits laser focus behind the sushi bar, as if nothing else in the world existed during moments of fresh fish engagement. The flash of his razor-sharp Masamoto knives, the hand and muscle control, the perfectly calibrated slices. In other words, this chef is the real deal.

It’s a mesmerizing show, one that is best accompanied by sake (rice wine). Various grades are on offer (none exceeding $39), and Anna is happy to help you find one to suit your palate and pocketbook. On our first visit, we couldn’t resist the Humpty Dumpty, nigori (cloudy, unfiltered) sake that

comes in a petite, egg-shaped bottle. On its own, it’s mild and fruity; with fish; it hints at smoke and earth. Just as good but far less complex was the sparkling Banzai Bunny, essentially a wine cooler—summery and perfumed with citrusy yuzu.

For eats, we chose the mixed sashimi plate, and what arrived is what I call “sushi bar primary colors”: French vanilla (escolar), persimmon (salmon) and aubergine (maguro tuna). The three were firm, sweet, silky and utterly distinct, but the escolar dusted with tongue-popping black tobiko (flying fish roe) was the favorite. A chutoro (tuna belly) sushi was extravagant, but so worth it: twin morsels of lightly marbled tuna belly, pure melt-in-your-mouth richness, set atop bite-sized mounds of seasoned rice. To my delight, Kim’s plating included two dewy petals of chutoro sashimi. The sight evoked a

Left: The crispy salmon plate combines the sushi roll and tempura concepts in this mouth-watering main course.

Right: Raw and remarkable: Yuzu's mixed sashimi appetizer.

Behind the sushi bar, Chef Kim exhibits laser focus.

Above: Umami-rich shrimp tempura atop toothsome udon noodles in a steaming bowl of veggie broth.

Left: Surf and turf lite: baked salmon skin salad is crunchy and rich without being too heavy or fishy.

reaction not unlike receiving a Tiffany ring box: complete surprise and a resounding “Yes!” We moved on to some menu building-block items, dishes with less obvious wow factor but no less impressive and tasty. First up was the steaming tempura udon, a huge bowl of umami-rich vegetable broth, thick slurp-worthy wheat noodles, piles of earthy Asian veggies and two golden fried shrimp tempura. It was enough to fill all of us, but with soup, there needs to be salad, and the baked salmon skin looked especially enticing. Crisp baby lettuce leaves, snappy green beans and tomatoes are the foundation for a mound of charred salmon skin bits, crunchy and rich without being too fishy. It was a satisfying closer to our meal.

Our next visit commenced with an outstanding Japanese ceviche, a variety of raw fish pieces tossed with red onion, cilantro and tomatoes in a house-made ponzu dressing.

Follow-up selections were a nod to the Kims’ former beloved restaurant, Sushi Mania, now under new ownership. Over a Yoho Wednesday Cat, a light, fruity Japanese beer, we contemplated the myriad available sushi rolls, how the clever names were derived and who

makes the cut. Is it a sort of Chorus Line operation, each roll auditioning for a “role” on the menu? The special spicy rainbow roll and the dragon roll were clear standouts, and both arrived as works of edible art. The rainbow roll is a nori drum of spicy shrimp and baby asparagus kissed with Yuzu’s hot sauce.

Exquisite, but the dragon roll was even better.

A lightly fried shrimp and crab roll, topped with avocado and eel sauce, hits all points on the tongue’s taste map—crunchy-savorysweet—and proved utterly addictive. Our final selection was more of a “main course” dish: the crispy salmon plate. Fresh salmon and avocado are rolled and delicately fried like tempura, sliced and topped with a dollop of creamy, decadent red onion sauce.

If sushi-phobic folk happen to be in your group (kids, for example), Yuzu has plenty of options, including superlative versions of chicken teriyaki, gyoza, seaweed salad and the like. There’s something for everyone at Yuzu, and the Kims are committed to quality and consistency—an attractive draw in the midst of an ever-evolving culinary landscape. n

Sake supreme: various grades are on offer at Yuzu, none exceeding $39.

YUZU SUSHI 5193 Peachtree Blvd., Suite E, Chamblee 30341 678.691.3001 yuzusushiatlanta.com Prices: sushi menu: $3.90-$16.50; appetizers and salads: $4-$14.50; sushi special plates: $13.50-$17.80; sushi plates and rolls: $8.50-$16.50; dinner entrees: $13.50-$15.90; desserts: $4-$5.

Recommended: salmon skin salad, mixed sashimi plate, toro sushi plate, udon tempura, dragon roll, special spicy rainbow roll, Japanese ceviche, chicken teriyaki.

Bottom line: Creative and traditional Japanese cuisine, sushi and sashimi offered up by one Atlanta’s most beloved restaurant couples.

January/February 2021 | Simply Buckhead

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D R I NKS

DETAILS Gypsy Kitchen 3035 Peachtree Road, N.E. Atlanta 30305 404.939.9840 gk-atl.com

Make Mine a Mule

Fado Irish Pub 273 Buckhead Ave. Atlanta 30305 404.841.0066 fadoirishpub.com

VARIATIONS ON THE CLASSIC COPPER MUG COCKTAIL

STORY:

T

Angela Hansberger

he Moscow Mule is inextricably linked to the copper mug in which it is presented. As adorable as the spicy, effervescent drink is when served inside the vintage looking vessel, it is not because copper is a superior thermal conductor. Rather, it’s served that way because of an act of serendipity.

With many classic cocktails, origins are disputed. It’s not the case for the Moscow Mule. It’s the first time a specific cocktail was used to advertise a spirit. It’s hard to believe vodka was ever a weak-selling spirit, but in the 1940’s United States, at the height of Cold War tensions with Russia, that was the case.

It went down when three people came together at Cock ’n Bull restaurant on the Sunset Strip in Los Angeles. John G. Martin of Heublein, the company that distributed Smirnoff, met with Sophie Berezinski, a Russian immigrant who arrived in 1941 with 2,000 copper mugs and a goal to sell them. Cock ’n Bull owner Jack Morgan was sitting on an overorder of ginger beer. Putting the three things together with the addition of lime juice and lime wheel garnish popularized vodka and the ubiquitous cocktail menu item known today.

The bubbly drink with a sweet and tangy kick is simple to make at home, and its versatility makes it an all-weather sipper. It's easy to modify

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the drink to anyone’s preference by building upon the simple formula.

Make a frozen version on sultry days or stir one up with smoky mezcal or jalapeno vodka for a heated boost.

Take clues from Buckhead-area bartenders who mingle ingredients to pair with their restaurant’s menus.

CLASSIC MOSCOW MULE 2 ounces vodka ½ ounce lime juice 4 ounces ginger beer Lime wheel Fill a copper mug with crushed ice.

Add vodka and juice. Top with ginger beer. Add lime wheel for garnish.

Tehran Mule To complement a Persian menu of richly flavored kabobs and basmati rice, Rumi’s Kitchen in Sandy Springs serves up a Tehran Mule. “What makes this mule Persian is the infusion of saffron into the vodka,” says COO Stephen Kaplan. “It brings a floral character and depth to the drink that takes it a step above a regular mule, or at least we think so.” Atlanta will soon have a new Rumi’s to visit in Midtown’s Colony Square when their anticipated food hall opens next year.

January/February 2021 | Simply Buckhead

Rumi’s Kitchen 6112 Roswell Road Atlanta 30328 404.477.2100 rumiskitchen.com

Irish Mule To go along with the quaint Irish vibes in the many nooks, crannies and patios at Fado Irish Pub, mixologists serve their mules in the same style, swapping out vodka for Jameson Irish Whiskey in copper cups.

Their version includes Crabbie’s Alcoholic Ginger Beer from Edinburgh, which adds a little more punch with the zing. They also serve a Kentucky version with bourbon and one made with strawberries. If you come in on a Friday, bottomless mules are offered from 3 to 7 p.m. Bring some friends to the patio for a Mega Mule that comes with up to 10 copper mugs for a celebratory experience.

Spice Trader At newly renamed Buckhead Village, Gypsy Kitchen serves a menu influenced by regions throughout the Mediterranean. Just as the chefs do with their food offerings, the owners wanted to take a traditional

cocktail and incorporate the hallmark spices and flavors of a place in time.

“The Spice Trader is inspired by the maritime silk roads that once connected east and west,” said General Manager Ali Ebrahimi. It mixes together Elijah Craig Small Batch Bourbon, ginger beer, lime, honey, apricot and cayenne. “We transformed this classically sweeter cocktail by giving it very subtle spice and citrus notes, resulting in a unique imbibing experience.“ Take it outside on the patio for a taste trip. n

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The Negative Ion Emissions lifts mood inflammation proven effective in reducing microbial life form (viruses, bacteria, The Healthy Climate UV light emits ultraviolet energy that has been and kills mold, bacteria and viruses as well as reducing allergens in to The walkNegative IndoorsIon andEmissions Outdoorlifts mood yeasts andLarge molds)campus in the air. proven effective in reducing life formbeen (viruses, bacteria, The Healthy Climate UV lightmicrobial emits ultraviolet energy that has been the air. systems tested with up and killsSome mold,metropolitan bacteria andwater viruses as wellhave as reducing allergens in yeasts and molds) the air.

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The Negative Ion Emissions lifts mood water filtration system deliver the water possible. proven effective inin reducing life form (viruses, bacteria, tobuilding 50+ micro drug residues inmicrobial theto water.

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January/February 2021 | Simply Buckhead 

63

FOODIE JOURNAL

Culinary News & Notes

BY:

Lia Picard

Lucky Lotus offers refreshing, colorful smoothie bowls.

HIT REFRESH Lucky Lotus brings smoothie bowls to Buckhead

T

Que Rico!

Ozzy Llanes brings big flavor to a tiny restaurant

I

n Florida, hungry Miami residents can stroll up to takeout windows and order Cuban sandwiches, pastries and cafe con leche to go. Ozzy Llanes, a Sandy Springs transplant who grew up in Cuba, doesn’t miss much about living in Miami, but he does miss those windows—and those traditional Cuban sandwiches of ham, pork, Swiss cheese, pickles and yellow mustard on Cuban

bread, served pressed and warm. Llanes couldn’t find one he liked in Atlanta (and he tried many), so in August he opened Cubanos ATL in Sandy Springs.

The concept is similar to what you might find in Miami, only it’s operated out of a tiny house with a commercial kitchen in a parking lot off of Roswell Road. There’s no seating inside or outside, but diners flock to the parking lot Tuesday through Saturday to feast on Cuban fare prepared by Llanes and his parents. We spoke with Llanes to find out what makes Cubanos ATL worth lining up.

What sets your Cuban sandwiches apart from the ones you’ve tried in Atlanta?

What makes us really special is the pork. All mojos (marinades) are based around the same thing, with sour orange, oregano and garlic, so we tweak [mojo] products that already exist with our own [ingredients] and make what we think is that perfect mojo. And we just

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January/February 2021 | Simply Buckhead

let the pork marinate for about 24 hours, then we roast and slice it.

How are your parents involved with Cubanos?

My mom makes the flan every day, and my dad makes the coffee. The idea was to keep them busy. They're 71 and 72, so they’re working part-time.

What can we expect to see from Cubanos in the future?

I went to Miami to look for pastries, like pastelitos (puff pastry with sweet fillings) and croquetas (fried pastries typically with a creamy ham filling), because clients are asking for them. And we need more space to cook and prep more products and sandwiches. So we got a license for a kitchen about a mile from here that will serve as our headquarters. n Cubanos ATL 6450 Roswell Road Sandy Springs 30328 404.889.8948 cubanosatl.com

he doldrums of winter are here, but sipping something tropical can evoke warm feelings, even if the treat itself is cold. Lucky Lotus in Buckhead has the cure. Located in Xander Coffee on the ground floor of family club Kefi, Lucky Lotus specializes in smoothies and smoothie bowls, made with tropical açaí that creates a vibrant purple base. There are four options of topping combinations, but the standout (and most fun) comes with banana, strawberries, blueberries, Fruity Pebbles cereal and coconut flakes. If you want a protein boost, try the aptly named protein bowl with bananas, strawberries, peanut butter and chocolate chips.

If you’d rather slurp than spoon your smoothies, try one of the 12 drinkable blends. Popular options include “Wake Me Up” with coffee, banana, coconut cream, cashews and dates; and the “Kale Lucky Lotus Quencher” with 3637 Peachtree Road kale, mango, suAtlanta 30319 perfood powder, 404.937.3356 lime and basil. xander-coffee.square.site

FOOD NEWS C&S Seafood and Oyster Bar in Sandy Springs offers delicious seafood in a high-end atmosphere. The restaurant opened its doors in September and features classics such as chargrilled oysters, clam chowder, lobster rolls and the everimpressive seafood tower. candsoysterbar.com Craving Mexican fare? Head to Botica, which opened on Peachtree Road in the former Watershed space in November. Helmed by Mimmo Alboumeh, the restaurant’s menu is packed with favorites such as smoked meats and craft cocktails. The restaurant’s atmosphere is laid back with several televisions perfect for game day. eatbotica.com

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TA S T E M AKE R

FUN FACT Despite attending college in Texas, Boney is an avid University of Florida Gator fan.

his uncle’s Maryland-based seafood distribution company.

We spoke to the entrepreneur about his growing business and his less-than-traditional career path.

Why did you leave medical school?

I went to med school to care for people. Around that time, my personal faith grew, and I found the opportunity to love and care for people through ministry. I wanted to find a job I could enjoy but that would allow for a more balanced life. I wanted to be a present father figure. [Then,] I fell in love with my uncle’s business.

Samantha Whittman

What makes Buckhead Butcher special?

Meats are hand-selected, cut and custom-aged. We sell meat thermometers and sous vide machines. I wanted to create an atmosphere the Buckhead community could relate to—high end, modern and sleek. I wanted them to feel like they were walking into a boutique clothing store. It has black walls, gold accents, dark wood floating shelves and one white marble wall. I’ve hired chefs and culinary experts from around the area to pick the very best products. The items can’t just be quality products—they have to look it, too.

From Medicine to

Meat STORY:

H

Carly Cooper

aving lived here nearly all his life, Connor Boney knows Buckhead and its needs. So when the COVID-19 pandemic hit, and local residents began struggling to find meat and poultry at grocery stores, Boney sprang into action.

Co-owner of 6-year-old Revere Meat Co., he started selling his high-end

66

Get to know Connor Boney, the man behind the Buckhead Butcher Shop

steaks—originally sold only to restaurants, clubs and retailers—out of the back of his truck to local buyers.

“Within two weeks, there were two-hour waits at times,” Boney says. “People were in love with the quality of the product.”

To address the demand, in July 2020 he opened Buckhead Butcher Shop, selling steaks, fresh and smoked seafood, poultry, pickles, charcuterie, jam, cheese, spices and

January/February 2021 | Simply Buckhead

more. Some of the most popular items are prime filet mignon, Wagyu hot dogs and Chilean sea bass, as well as prepared corn souffle and potatoes au gratin.

He’s also planning virtual cooking classes. “We’re all cooking more, so I want you to enjoy it more,” he says.

The 38-year-old hasn’t always been in the food world. He attended medical school, but after three years, he dropped out to help with

How do you balance running two businesses with family time?

I don’t [laughs]. My wife and I just welcomed our second child. We moved into a new house. It’s been difficult. I have great staff, and my faith gets me through.

What do you do for fun?

I spend time with my wife and kids.

We like to cook out, go on walks and go to the beach. We’re homebodies.

We like to spend time with each other, whether over a meal, watching TV or being outside. I like to golf and hunt but don’t have time for that right now.

I’m a member of Buckhead Church and lead their Starting Point groups. It gives me the opportunity to develop one-on-one relationships with people who are just jumping into their faith.

My biggest passion is serving other people through that ministry. n

BUCKHEAD BUTCHER SHOP 54 Pharr Road Atlanta 30305 404.963.5335 buckheadbutchershop.com

January/February 2021 | Simply Buckhead 

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FEATURED RESTAURANTS A sampling of great eats in and around Buckhead BY: Wendell

Brock, Rebecca Cha and Angela Hansberger

PHOTOS: Sara

Hanna, Joann Vitelli

10 DEGREES SOUTH After 15 years on the scene, this Roswell Road establishment is a highly original destination where food and wine from the tip of the Southern Hemisphere are celebrated with flair.

Before we could pose the server with a query on the peri-peri, we got the hard sell on South African reds—particularly the Rupert & Rothschild 2009 “Classique.” The big, full-bodied R&R was the perfect match for the luscious, spicy food that followed. We wager that nobody makes bobotie (the South African national dish) like 10 Degrees South. The dish consists of tantalizingly sweet curried ground beef topped with a custardy crust. It’s time to get your head out of the sand and indulge in the kind of stuff our parents enjoyed when “Continental” cuisine was in vogue.

Appetizers: $10-$16 Entrées: $21-$38 10degreessouth.com

THE ALDEN Chamblee's popularity as a residential and dining destination seems to be on the rise, and Chef Jared Hucks is here to make sure diners eat like royalty.

Winning starters include a homemade bread plate with prosciutto butter and cheddar pimento cheese, silky sweet potato bisque and sashimi quality seared scallops. For mains, go with the

cold smoked salmon, Moroccan-spiced shrimp and grits or the hickory smoked Brasstown coulotte steak. Desserts are deliciously unique. If you’ve got belly room to spare, be sure to witness the chef’s gastro-theatrics with the banana bread pudding service. Our favorite was the lunar chocolate, which the chef calls his “dessert moonscape.”

Smaller dishes: $11-$21 Larger dishes: $23-$45 Desserts: $9-$15 Chef’s tasting menu: seven courses/$95 thealdenrestaurant.com

CASI CIELO Casi cielo translates to “almost heaven,” and it’s a fitting description for this sophisticated Sandy Springs Oaxacan eatery. You’d be loco to miss the tender, charcoal grilled octopus, earthy portobello or mahi-mahi tacos, the crunchy plantain croquettes or buttery Chilean sea bass. Equally enticing is the world-class mezcal collection and the exotic cocktails made with favorite brands such as Alipus, Nucano and Gracias a Dios. The gracious staff epitomizes high-bar professionalism.

Appetizers, soups and salads: $6- $18 Quesadillas, tacos and bowls: $12- $18 Main dishes: $15-$43 Desserts: $9 casicieloatl.com

The bobotie—sweet ground-beef curry baked with a savory custard crust—is reason enough to visit 10 Degrees South.

FLOWER CHILD Get your groove on at this 21st century health food haven where bright colors, happy smiles and good vibes abound.

Whet your whistle with some refreshingly fruity on-tap kombucha (a fermented tea drink) and treat yourself to starters of tart, juicy tomato toast or creamy avocado hummus. You’ll be bowled over by the tantalizing flavors of the Mother Earth bowl, the Glow bowl and other health-friendly bowls, wraps and plates. Menu standouts include the “Forbidden Rice” bowl with grass-fed steak, the Mediterranean quinoa salad and for dessert, the vegan dark chocolate pudding. A limited wine and beer selection is available for those who prefer a cocktail with their quinoa or a tipple with their tofu.

Soups, salads and appetizers: $6.25 - $12.50 Bowls, entrées and wraps: $9.95 $15.50 iamaflowerchild.com

F&B

The creamy, decadent sweet potato bisque at The Alden can be made vegan-to-order if that's your preference.

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January/February 2021 | Simply Buckhead

Like its predecessor, the much-loved former Brasserie le Coze, F&B delivers timeless Provençal fare in a classic brasserie atmosphere. The menu is bolstered by comfort dishes portioned with hunger in mind, but it’s also forti-

fied with lighter salads, sandwiches and soups. Classics such as steak frites and skate wing with a brown butter sauce are deeply satisfying in their rustic charm. Mussels come piled high in a white wine and shallot broth, along with crusty French bread for sopping.

The drink menu is built on interesting French wines and remarkable cocktails such as the well-balanced, bourbonbased Line of Destiny.

Appetizers: $6-$18 Entrées: $11-$42 Desserts: $6-$8 fandbatl.net

HAL’S “THE STEAKHOUSE” Looking on the outside like a high-end strip joint topped with a Bourbon Street balcony, Hal’s has built its cachet around its loyal clientele, old-school style, impeccable service and terrific food. Owner Hal Nowak is a New Orleans native, and in his eponymous enterprise—with its shrimp remoulade, oysters bordelaise and booze-soaked bread pudding—he has created Atlanta’s answer to Galatoire’s. This may be your grandparents’ favorite restaurant, but in an age where everything old is new again, it also boasts a youthful clientele that appreciates its straightforward food, strong drinks and speakeasy atmosphere.

Appetizers and salads: $9-$24 Entrées and steaks: $24-$50 hals.net

You can’t talk to an R. Thomas fan without hearing praise for their fish tacos.

HAVEN RESTAURANT AND BAR Haven is exactly that—a safe, inclusive place where your every gastronomic need is met. If weather permits, enjoy the serenity of patio dining while indulging your taste buds with crisp Gulf oysters, the Southern cheese board or Timmy’s wild Georgia shrimp.

Or go inside and soak up the classy atmosphere while digging into seared Georges Bank scallops or spice-roasted Green Circle Farms chicken, and wrap things up with a warm chocolate brownie with artisan espresso sauce.

Small plates and salads: $6-$15 Entrées: $18-$38 Steaks: starting at $51 Sides and desserts: $7 havenrestaurant.com

KYMA The name means “wave,” and making waves is exactly what executive chef Pano I. Karatassos has been doing at his family’s stellar Greek seafood restaurant since 2002. From marides (tiny, “French fry”-size white fish) to Greek specimens grilled whole (try the barbounia or bronzino), Kyma excels at delivering the kind of simple, unadorned flavors you’ll encounter on a patio by the Aegean.

Order a glass of Greek wine (there are many options) and a few classic meze for sharing (we like the dolmades, spanakopita, cuttlefish stuffed with lamb stew and the feta-zucchini fritters), and your meal will go just swimmingly.

Meze: $8-$14 Mains: $26-$46 (whole fish $30 or $36 per pound) buckheadrestaurants.com/kyma

PRICCI Opened in 1991, Pricci is the Italian jewel in Buckhead Life Restaurant Group’s crown. This Buckhead institution still aspires to (and delivers) exceptional service, superlative Italian cooking and a vibe that’s both elegant and inclusive. Nothing says buon appetito like silky burrata Pugliese (cream filled mozzarella), tangy parmesan and anchovy-rich Caesar salad and aromatic steamed cozze (mussels in tomatogarlic sauce). Barbera-braised short rib ravioli, pecorino-sauced cacio e pepe and pizzas of all varieties are favorites, but if you’re extra peckish, order the Dutch-imported 16-ounce veal chop.

Mangia bene, but don’t forget to try Pricci’s world-class tiramisu.

Appetizers and salads: $8-$26 Pizza and pastas: $17-$27 Entrees: $24-$46 Desserts: $6-$15 buckheadrestaurants.com

R. THOMAS DELUXE GRILL Open 24/7 and bedecked with ’70sstyle disco lighting, beaded curtains and groovy plastic walls, this Buckhead favorite feels like a throwback to the days when the health food craze was in its genesis. Whether you go for the sizzling bone-in hot wings or Dr. Joe’s Mango Salad with a side of raw cashew “cheese,” R. Thomas lives up to its promise to “treat carnivores and vegetarians with equal respect.” More menu favorites include the quinoa-rich Thai Express bowl, the classic Thomas Burger with sprouts and guacamole, the curry coconut seafood linguine, Southwestern-style R.’s Quesadilla and an unforgettable peanut butter chocolate pie.

Breakfast: $9.75-$14.75 Appetizers: $4.50-$17.50 Nothing wraps up an evening at Pricci like their unforgettable tiramisu.

and bone-in veal chop will sate your Italian cravings as well. End your repast with a glass of the world-class Miscela d’Oro espresso.

Sandwiches, salads and veggie mains: $5.99-$17.50 Entrées: $13.25-$20.75 Desserts: $6.50-$8.75 rthomasdeluxegrill.net

STORICO FRESCO ALIMENTARI Is a trip to Italy on your bucket list, but you can’t get away? A meal at oh-so-authentic hot spot Storico Fresco may be just the ticket. A must here is the meat and cheese board, piled with prosciutto, bresaola, culatello, fragrant cheeses and gooey honeycomb.

Its refined, rustic and utterly classic pastas, including garganelli con funghi, tagliatelle alla Bolognese and ravioli spinaci, conjure up images of Tuscan vistas and Michelangelo statues. Seconds such as the pork shank for two

Appetizers: $12-$24 Salads and sandwiches: $10-$21 Pastas: $11-$23 Mains: $24-$30 Side dishes and desserts: $6-$7 storicofresco.com

TED’S MONTANA GRILL We love everything about the housemade dill pickles; the fat onion rings with horseradish dipping sauce; the Arnold Palmers; and the all-American, stick-a-flag-in-it, “where the buffalo roam” burgers. Yep, we’re talking bison, baby. It’s leaner than beef, yet richer and moister, somehow. The Ted’s burger that really rocks our world is the Blue Creek: Inspired by owner Ted Turner’s Blue Creek Ranch in Nebraska, it comes with bacon crumbles and blue cheese. And that’s all it needs. Just ask for a side of rings and a little ramekin of that horsey sauce.

Appetizers: $5-$14 Burgers: $12-$19 tedsmontanagrill.com

Note: Prices and menu items may have changed since original publication.

Hungry for more?

Visit the Simply Buckhead website to read all of our Restaurant Reviews! simplybuckhead.com

January/February 2021 | Simply Buckhead

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S C EN E

PAINT THE TOWN Next time you’re visiting Buckhead Village, keep an eye out for the new 20-by-14-foot floral mural by mixed media artist Niki Zarrabi, located behind Le Bilboquet.

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January/February 2021 | Simply Buckhead

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