Dresden Walk

Cory and I were walking around the Village Place development (Library, Verde, Kaleidoscope, etc.) this week, and we noticed a sign across the street on Dresden. It seems to be a public notice that a developer is doing some preliminary design work for a new development called "Dresden Walk".

I had heard a rumor months ago that the property was under contract to be Two Brookhaven, a high-end residential condo development with homes starting from the $1,000,000 (Bleh!) and a sister property to One Brookhaven which is off of Peachtree across from Cherokee Plaza. There are wonderful houses in my neighborhood with smaller (not by much) price tags, and some of those haven't sold in years. As WhatNowAtlanta wrote about, the condo market is ruining Atlanta, and I cannot imagine much of a market for condos in that price range.

From the Dresden Walk public notice, the developer and consultants are doing some stream remediation/preliminary design to prepare the property for development. This piece of land is the one across from the Mom & Pops convenient store, and runs almost all the way to Fernwood Drive (see map for rough estimate). They have even already torn down the house on the corner of Ellijay and Dresden (it also partially burned last year...). The notice only mentions a "mixed-use residential and commercial development". So who knows what that means. It's definitely a pretty substantial parcel, and the Village Place could use something across the street to spur some more development, and maybe even kick the MARTA plans into gear (one can dream, right?).

My only concern for them is parking- I hope they incorporate a parking deck to accommodate all the recent traffic that has been plaguing that area! Sometimes it's ridiculous if Cory and I just want to stop by the Library to grab a quick beer (now all under $3 a glass!). But I guess that's what city living is like, and it does encourage us to walk the 1 mile over there more often.

We will keep you all posted on this development and any updates-it's most likely still pretty far off (1-2 years). Hopefully they don't clear-cut it and then lose funding or decide to pull out like the Streets of Buckhead project, which is only now starting to move again. But it is exciting to see new development coming- with the success of Village Place, we could use more bars and restaurants!

Brookhaven Bolt- May 14th!

Since our half marathon in March, Cory and I have been itching to run another one. Last weekend we participated in the 5k Walk MS Atlanta at Piedmont Park to support the National MS society (we had a blast! See photo below), and we have already signed up for the Warrior Dash (5k obstacle race) up in North Georgia in a few weeks. Lastly, we're looking forward to possibly participating in a sprint triathlon in July as well. Phew!

There is just something about the spring season that makes me want to get out of the house and work out (sometimes...)! Not to say that I'm any sort of crazy athlete like my sister, Erica or my friend, Stacy, but I do enjoy running, swimming, biking (occasionally...), hiking, etc.

While out running for the first time in awhile yesterday, I spotted a sign in our neighborhood for the 4th annual Brookhaven Bolt. A local 5k run/walk to support our local elementary school: Ashford Park (100% of the proceeds are donated!). The run is Saturday, May 14th and starts at 8:00am. Cory and I would love to participate, but that happens to be the same day as Warrior Dash :(. The race looks like a lot of fun, and the course actually looks very similar to a few of the runs we did for training (see Course Map below). Ashford Park is a great neighborhood to run through (a bit hilly), but beautiful unique homes to look at, and LOTS of shade.

The race starts and finishes at the Village Place development (Library Coffee, Verde, Kaleidoscope, Pour, Eggs Nest, etc.). So after you're done you can grab a coffee, taco, wine, and some baby gifts!  If you aren't a big runner, and would still like to help out this event, they need a lot of volunteer support.

If you are interested in supporting this great cause and getting a little exercise at the same time, sign up today (cost is $20 and increases to $25 after May 12th)!

Kaleidoscope - The Review...

I guess you can say we have been pretty excited about Kaleidoscope coming to our neighborhood.  Chef Joey Riley has been a strong presence in great Atlanta restaurants for well over a decade and we have waited with great anticipation to see what he will serve up in his own spot.  After we first heard about it last summer, it seemed like it would never open - we were taunted while walking by, constantly peering in to see how construction was progressing.  Finally when it did open at the end of December, it was packed so full of people, we stayed away; envying those inside but not yet ready to brave the wait for the table (they don't take reservations).  But in the months that it has been open we have been inside a couple times (for quick burgers and beers), and the other night, finally had our first blog-able meal.  

On a Friday night at 7:00, to our surprise we were seated immediately.  I must say, the atmosphere inside is awesome.  Some might find it loud, but it is true of a pub environment and creates a wonderful buzz about the restaurant.  We started with drinks - their wine list is extensive, and they offered some specialty cocktails...but you gotta drink beer at a pub!  The draught beer list wasn't lengthy, but it contained some well selected brews that were easy to pick from.  After our drinks arrived, we each started with a "first impression" aka - appetizer.  Malory couldn't turn down the special: broccoli bisque with grated sharp cheddar - one of the highlights of the night- creamy, rich, and delicious.  I decided on the Thai Style Beef Jerky which was a tad bit salty, but still very flavorful jerky marinated in a Thai lime sauce (both above).

For my main course, I went with the dinner special (they just sounded so good!): fried local catfish, collards with bacon, slaw, and hushpuppies (above).  The catfish was fresh and perfectly cooked - light and flaky, and the collards were the perfect complement- crisp, sweet, and creamy.  This dish was our second favorite of the night.  Malory ordered the short ribs- the meat was tender and juicy and the pearl onions and fingerling potatoes were a nice addition to the "roast".  

I guess we were feeling particularly adventurous, or maybe just the waiter did a great job selling it (that never happens...), but we decided on a dessert.  We don't usually indulge ourselves, but after hearing about this S'more brownie (above), we couldn't turn it down.  Graham cracker crust, with a layer of chocolate brownie topped with melted marshmallow, this dish was a unique take on the campfire treat.  

While we had some standout favorites, we really enjoyed all of the dishes.  We've been scared about the crowd for some time (nobody likes waiting an hour for a table then 20 minutes at the bar trying to get a drink!), but to be honest, they had ample seating (even more so when the weather turns nice... huge outside patio!)  The majority of crowd is hanging out at the bar, which is all you can really see from the street... so don't be deterred. We have also been a little weary that the price tag would possibly hinder us from making this a typical Friday night hang out, but the menu has a $20 ceiling that keeps you from running the bill too high.  We were greatly impressed with all that we experienced and cannot wait to go out and try it again.  Hope to see you there!

Pour Wine Bar

We had meant to have a nice dinner at Kaleidoscope last week, and even got there early to ensure a table for six, but they had a last minute closing. They had lacquered the floors that day which weren't quite dry; plus the place wasn't airing out (smelled like a strong Sharpie... really it did- they let us in for about a minute and it was just too much to bear). So we hung our heads, after weeks of planning a trip to the newest, hottest restaurant in Brookhaven, and walked over to Verde for some tacos (not quite the same after you're craving duck fat french fries!)

Stacy & Chris and Maddy & Kyle joined us at Verde where we all enjoyed some $3 Tecates, $2 PBRs, and slightly overpriced gourmet tacos (word to the wise- if you get there early, you'll have to deal with a lot of families with little kiddies!). Stacy already did a great job posting about dinner, and with her newfound photo skills, check out her great blog post about Verde.

Since we had all had a long week of work, we decided to continue the evening at Pour Wine Bar & Market. The mood was very relaxed and chill inside- they have a unique interior with a gastro-pub feel.  Half of the space is the Wine Market (see photo above) and the other half is the Wine Bar. There was only one other small group in the bar- which was a welcome change to the slight chaos of Verde.

Pour has wine by the glass ($7-$13 a glass) and also serves tastings as well (called "Flights").  They have a 3 glass tasting (pick any wine off the menu) for $12 and a 6 glass tasting for $20. Most of us ordered the tastings, and with that (with 2 orders of the 6 glass tasting) you also receive a cheese and cracker platter. Check out all the glasses on our table (above)!

We definitely had a lot of fun tasting all the different wines- although it did take them awhile to pour them all. Even if you're not a big wine drinker- they also have some local and small brews available by the bottle. It was great trying it out with friends, and I would recommend this spot for after dinner drinks with a date (or before dinner while you're waiting for your table at Verde or Kaleidoscope), or with a small group of friends to just relax.

Haven

We found ourselves celebrating the birth of Jesus a couple nights ago and wanted to go out for a nice dinner.  And with Kaleidoscope's opening status unknown at the time (fyi- its now open!), we decided to hit one of our favorites in the area, Haven.  Haven is in the Village Place development and is a staple restaurant for Brookhaven.  We have been a couple times and have even seen Executive Chef Steven Herman at Field of Greens serving up farm to fork dishes.  While they have a great inside space, they have an even better outdoor patio to sit at when the weather is nice.

We started with some hay.  Potato Hay, that is (above).  It is a plate stacked high with shoe-string fried potato sticks drizzled in truffle oil.  We found it very unique take on a fried potato dish and was fun to eat.  Although, it was a massive plate that was more than enough for the two of us.  

Malory ordered the chicken and dumplings (above) based on the recommendation from our waiter.  It was a roasted chicken breast atop homemade herb dumplings and local oyster mushrooms - a great take on a southern comfort food.

I ordered the C.A.B. (Certified Angus Beef) tenderloin.  It came grilled accompanied by a twice baked shortrib potato, horseradish butter, and mustard greens (above).  The meat was perfectly cooked (medium rare) and the greens were a nice bitter complement.  The potato was a bit greasy but had a great flavor.  

Haven is a great neighborhood restaurant.  Maybe a little pricey to visit often ($20-$30 entrées), but the menu offered many other great dishes we will have to go back and try.  They also have a great wine selection and with no beers on tap (yet, hint hint) there are plenty of good wines to complement a good steak.  We've always had a great dining experience there (maybe not such a great bar scene) and will continue to visit in the future.  Go check it out.

Egg's Nest

I do a lot (90%) of my shopping online for the Holidays. I am not a fan of crazy shoppers, long lines, and limited parking.  I try to steer clear of malls and large shopping centers.

However, sometimes you just can't beat the joy of shopping around Christmas. Typically the non-chain/neighborhood stores are nicely decorated and the staff cheerful and helpful.  So when I had to do some baby shopping for a new 9 month old family member, I was excited to get to try out our new local, eco-friendly baby boutique: Eggs Nest (no website, follow them on twitter @eggsnestatlanta). Eggs Nest is located in the up and coming Village Place development off Dresden with the Library Coffee Co, Cocktails and Canvas, Kaleidoscope, and Yoforia to name a few.

Eggs Nest has a fairly large retail space with adorable, eco-friendly gifts for any little one (mainly baby & toddler). I picked out a few small gifts for our cousin's baby and they even wrapped the gift in a cute bag with ribbon and a gift tag (complimentary!). I'll let you know how she enjoys them!

If you go, ask for Katharine Kinney, the store owner. She was very friendly and helpful, especially when shopping for a gift. They had some unique products there that looked pretty cool for any new mom.

We always love to support our local stores, so stop by if you can, Christmas is approaching quickly!

Kaleidoscope - soon?

I know we have talked about this restaurant a couple times - probably because we just can't wait for it to open. There were rumors of a soft opening last week but all we saw was a sign for a "Private Party" (damn, how do I get invited?). And I've also heard rumors that they don't have their liquor license yet, which is obviously delaying the opening. Our friend Kyle forwarded us the menu and frankly, beer or no beer, let me in! While the prices seem a little higher than what I expected (same price ranges as Haven), the dishes make my mouth water and I'll definitely have to try pretty much all of them. This is going to be a great addition to the area. Take a look at the menu here and hopefully our next post will be us, inside!!

Costume Contest & World Bazaar

Just got a few emails about some upcoming events!

Costume Party tonight! Friday, October 29th at Library Coffee Co. Enjoy free appetizers and a costume contest. Prizes will be awarded for best costume.

Also, from the Brookhaven Art Alliance, a new (?) organization called the Brookhaven Community Connection is hosting a "Bazaar"/Market next weekend at Village Place. See below for information about the event.

Have a great Halloween weekend!

Yoforia & Kaleidoscope

Cory and I enjoyed a nice yogurt treat last night at our local Yoforia. Yoforia is a self-serve, organic and low-calorie frozen yogurt place. With a modern and clean feel, its a nice alternative to a sugary sweet ice cream cone. The only draw-back is they don't offer any doggie cones, so Jasper is a little disappointed when we visit.  And keep it tart - the imitation savory flavors don't always stand up to the real thing.  But we love being able to mix and match flavors and add our own toppings and for $0.39 an ounce- its not breaking the bank either (be careful though... the tubs they have hold a lot of yummy yogurt and 39c adds up quickly!). Sorry we don't have pictures of our treats... we ate them too fast :) They did have a flavor we hadn't tried, honeydew, that was quite tasty!

Our local Yoforia is located in the up and coming Village Place shopping development (see whats coming in HERE). And Cory and I love walking around that area and looking at the new restaurants, retail, and modern condos/townhomes.

We talked a little about Kaleidoscope (see above for progress pictures) last week, and it looks like its progressing along very well. With an almost complete interior- I'm hopeful that it will open in November! Maybe they might even catch some of this wonderful warm fall weather so they can utilize the incredible patio out front. We also walked by POUR- Wine Market and Tasting Room and talked to two guys who were sipping wine (of course) and discussing floor layout (we assume they were the owners). When I asked when they plan to open- they said hopefully next week (!). We will keep you posted on if they make it :).

Also the new baby store- Eggs Nest, also looks very close to opening. We aren't in the market right now for any baby items, but it looks like a cute kids boutique!

Library Coffee Co: Wine Tasting

Our favorite local coffee shop (and early-night bar), Library Coffee Co is hosting a wine tasting this Wednesday (10/13) at 7pm.

This months tasting features "Italy's Best." This monthly event fills up quickly, so if you haven't signed up make sure to do so soon! The tasting costs just $20 per person and includes a range of wine samples (between 6-7 samples) and 3 appetizers (bruschetta, hummus/ veggies, & cheese). Call (404) 841-8818 to reserve your spot today.We have been to 3 of the wine tastings, and we have enjoyed them all (above picture was from the Argentina vs. Spain themed tasting we did on Cory's birthday this year- pictured: Ryan, me & Maddy). The atmosphere is great, and we love learning more about wine: how its made, how to properly drink, and what to pair it with. Our favorite tasting so far was the Blind tasting we did in August with Stacy and Chris (see blog links at bottom right).

The regular Sommelier (wine connoisseur) who leads the tastings is a wonderful speaker and very engaging- you won't be disappointed! My only advice is to get there at least 20 minutes early- tables cannot be reserved, and if you have a party of more than 4- it can be tough to all sit together! At the end of the tasting (~9pm) they offer the remaining wine bottles from the tastings at $6-$7 a glass.

Enjoy!

Kaleidoscope

We walked by the new restaurant/pub Kaleidoscope in the Village Place shopping center on Dresden. Looks like they are making progress (on the bar at least!). Hopefully, we can still expect it to open this fall. See more pics on their facebook page.