Simply Buckhead January/February 2022 by Simply Buckhead

January/February 2022 ISSUE 84 • FREE

YOUR GUIDE TO LIVING WELL IN ATLANTA

Serving Buckhead, Brookhaven, Serving Buckhead, Chamblee, Dunwoody, Sandy Brookhaven, Sandy Springs, Springs Chamblee and Upper and Dunwoody Westside

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JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2022

Photos: 22: Erik Meadows Photography, 32: David Parham, 59: Joann Vitelli, 68: Sara Hanna

Contents

59 COVER STORY

12 Editor’s Letter [ SIMPLY NOW ]

28 Pets: Tooth be Told

15 News: Home Swank Home

The dos and don’ts for ensuring your pet’s smile is healthy

Furniture store makes statement in Upper Westside

30 Kids: Baby Bumps

20 Travel Far: Spiritual Renewal

Expert advice to help kids adjust to a new sibling

A Sedona getaway is supercharged with good vibes

[ SIMPLY LIVING ]

22 Staycation:

A family of seven make their home dreams come true in a renovated 1920s dwelling in Ardmore Park

Gastronomic Getaway The new Epicurean Atlanta offers a chic, culinary-focused hotel stay

24 Approved: We’ll Drink to This Healthier drinks to sip in the new year

25 15 Minutes With: Erin McCutcheon CEO of Copiana

32 Home: Five-Star Spread

37 Bulletin Board: Mosquito-Free Zone Tuxedo Mosquito Control offers strategies to control pests

38 Tastemaker:

Built to Last

A sustainable lifestyle can be a major upgrade

[ SIMPLY STYLISH ]

[ SIMPLY DELICIOUS ]

40 Fashion: Fashion Remedy

68 Review: Westside Wonder

Buckhead resident Lauren Amos brings her fashion concept ANT/DOTE to Upper Westside

42 Beauty: We Tried It! Our team shares first-hand experiences for must-try treatments

The Woodall gives globally inspired dishes and drinks local flavor

72 Foodie Journal: Love at First Sip Starbright Wine founder shares her wine-shopping tips for Valentine’s Day and beyond [ SIMPLY HAPPENING ]

[ SIMPLY ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT ]

54 Art Bulletin:

79 Events: Places to go and things to do

Holding Out For a Hero

Creecy Comes Home

83 Charitable:

Steve McKenzie explains how to find the star of your space

Works by the late modernist on display at Bill Lowe Gallery

A spotlight on philanthropic and social gatherings

January/February 2022 | Simply Buckhead

YOUR GUIDE TO LIVING WELL IN ATLANTA

Serving Buckhead, Brookhaven, Chamblee, Dunwoody, Sandy Springs and Upper Westside JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021 | ISSUE 84 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

David Parham

Now Re-Open at Phipps Plaza! Join us for Lunch, Sunday Brunch & Dinner! For reservations call 404.844.4810 or visit www.davios.com/atl 3500 PEACHTREE ROAD NE, ATLANTA, GA 30326

January/February 2022 | Simply Buckhead

Born and raised in Atlanta, photographer David Parham found his passion behind the lens of a Canon starter DSLR on a camping trip through the Pacific Northwest during his time as a Georgia State University film major. He initially enjoyed capturing fragments of the world— juxtaposing bustling city life and tranquil nature found in the Appalachian foothills. Then a favor for his mother, who wanted photos of her newly remodeled kitchen, turned into a successful career in commercial real estate photography that has expanded into wedding, lifestyle and band photography as well. Find his work in Simply Buckhead’s home feature. davidparhamphotography.com, @dparhamphoto

Jill Becker H.M. Cauley Carly Cooper Caroline Eubanks Lauren Finney Harden Mickey Goodman Angela Hansberger Taylor Heard Michael Jacobs Nicole Letts Amy Meadows Hope Philbrick Claire Ruhlin Ginger Strejcek [ PHO T O GRA PHE RS ]

Sara Hanna David Parham Joann Vitelli [ SALES & ADVERTISING ] Senior Account Executive

Cheryl Isaacs Account Executive

Michelle Johnson Graphic Designer

Layal Akkad [ DIGITAL ] Website Development Management

BHG Digital We welcome all contributions, but we assume no responsibility for unsolicited material. No portion of this publication can be reproduced in whole or in part without prior written permission. Copyright © 2022 by Simply Buckhead ®. All rights reserved. Printed by Walton Press, Inc. Distributed by Distributech and Distribution Services Group.

Director of Audience Development

Mike Jose Legal Counsel

Scott I. Zucker

FIND US ONLINE Read Simply Buckhead online at

simplybuckhead.com Facebook Like us at @livingwellatl

Twitter Follow us @simplybuckhead

Over 150 Designers

Instagram Follow us @simplybuckhead

[ BEHIND THE COVER ] Creatives know that some projects feel like a struggle. Conversely, moments when everything comes together seamlessly and better than expected are to be treasured. That’s precisely how this cover shoot felt. What started as an idea to do something simple to illustrate our sustainability theme turned into a creative collaboration that was greater than the sum of its parts. We approached Atlanta-based fashion designer Octavius Terry about creating a one-of-a-kind dress, and boy, did he deliver! Our cover model, Tati, who happens to be studying environmental engineering at the University of Georgia and plans to get an MBA with a sustainability focus, wore the jaw-dropping custom gown, adorned with purple flowers and moss. The Garden Room at Atlas was the perfect atmosphere, since it’s a spot where locals can get the sense of being in a botanical-filled greenhouse year-round. Co-owner of The Drawing Room ATL Daniel Zimmerman made a piece of butterfly art that echoes Atlas’ butterfly-themed private room to add an extra touch of whimsy. We think you’ll agree: This cover is a show-stopper!

CASUAL & DAY WEAR COCKTAIL BALL GOWNS MOTHER OF THE BRIDE SIZES 2 T0 24 FEATURING COUTURE EVENINGWEAR DESIGNER ALEX TEIH

Photographer: Sara Hanna Producer: Jennifer Bradley Franklin Styling and dress: Octavius Terry Model: Tati, courtesy Ursula Wiedmann Models Hair: Vincent Bell Makeup: Michaela David Photography assistants: Chris Rothman, Amanda Johnston, Andrew Hintzman Videographer: Alten Hayes Butterflies: Daniel Zimmerman Styling assistant: Vin Mykel Nails: Sugarcoat Location: The Garden Room at Atlas, St. Regis Atlanta Special thanks to Jennifer Parker and Chef Freddy Money for hosting us.

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January/February 2022 | Simply Buckhead

SIMPLY BUCKHEAD® JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2022

[ E DI T OR ’ S L E T T E R ]

don’t dare make new year’s resolutions for fear of failure. Instead, I keep to-do lists and a Google calendar that harbor my plans for healthier next steps and life goals year-round. The start of a new year inherently brings with it an air of “anything can happen,” of hope, of a new beginning, and that’s exciting. After a busy and oftentimes stressful holiday season, this issue brings you stories that will hopefully inspire selfcare, wellbeing, adventure and positivity on your 2022 journey. If exploring new beauty is top of mind, don’t miss what Senior Contributing Editor Jennifer Bradley Franklin, Publisher Joanne Hayes and I found out when we tried a few treatments aimed at rejuvenating skin. If healthier swaps are on your list, discover Lauren Finney Harden’s roundup of vitamin-boosted non-alcoholic drinks and my Wellness piece on choosing better supplements. If mindfulness is your new jam, read how Jeff and Callie Dauler lead life with gratitude in Michael Jacob’s On Stage story. And if getting out of the house to explore more in The A and beyond is top priority, then check out Angela Hansberger’s coverage of author Amanda Plumb’s new book about our city’s incredible eateries as well as our travel stories on Sedona, Tallahassee and Atlanta’s new Epicurean Hotel. And because living well extends beyond oneself and into your home and community, our January cover feature focuses on sustainability. Find valuable tips in Jill Becker’s interview with Wellness Within Your Walls’ founder about ways to avoid toxins in your house and Michael Jacobs’ curated advice from interior designers and home builders on creating a greener home. Also gain an understanding of local recycling rules and more. Whether you make resolutions or not, we’re here to cheer you on for a happy, healthy new year! Warmly, Karina

Karina Antenucci Managing Editor

CLARIFICATION In our November/December issue’s Happening section, a write-up about the nsoro Foundation’s Starfish Ball should have specified that Simply Buckhead is the media sponsor of the event.

January/February 2022 | Simply Buckhead

SIMPLY NOW

15 MINUTES WITH ERIN MCCUTCHEON

P25

"With our towers, property managers can be part of the greater ESG conversation." —Erin McCutcheon

Erin McCutcheon, CEO of Copiana, has helped bring aeroponic farming to Atlanta's commercial spaces. Photo: Joann Vitelli

January/February 2022 | Simply Buckhead

NEWS BY:

Ginger Strejcek

Home Swank Home Furniture store makes statement in Upper Westside

ooking to spruce up the nest in the new year? Check out the dreamy designs at CB2, recently opened at Westside Provisions District. The 8,350-square-foot space features an eclectic blend of home furnishings and accessories, from an Imbu Boucle 5-piece sectional for $6,595 channeling midcentury vibes by musician Lenny Kravitz’s design company to a gallery-worthy Loki Lavender china dessert plate for $10.95 by British fashion designer Matthew Williamson.

Part of the international Crate & Barrel Holdings, the Atlanta store also offers free professional design services for customers, private shopping appointments and concierge services for trade members. “Homes have become the places where we live, work and play. Our customers come to us to create a home that truly reflects their personal style,” says Ryan Turf, CB2 president. “Our Atlanta location is an open invitation to be inspired by a thoughtfully

curated collection, paired with knowledgeable and design-forward associates.” Thanks to an edgy mix of inventory, from global partners such as Studio Anansi and Mermelada Estudio to a small assortment of hand-selected vintage heirlooms, CB2 offers high-quality furniture at an approachable price point based on category and detail, Turf says. That includes reissued classics such as Paul McCobb’s midcentury designs that go for a fraction of the original sale value. n

CB2 404.260.7264 cb2.com @cb2

NEWS CLIPS HIGH SPIRITS Shop fine wines and spirits at Aria Spirits, just opened in Sandy Springs’ Aria Village.

The boutique bottle shop bills itself as tech-centric, providing detailed information to customers about everything on its shelves. Find a unique selection of premium offerings from big brands and family-owned and lowproduction wineries, as well as curated tasting experiences and in-house expertise about the craftsmanship behind each label. Of note: It carries Camus Cognac, Robert Foley Vineyards, Far Niente Winery, Faust and Frank Family Vineyards. ariaspirits.com, @aria_spirits

C'EST MAGNIFIQUE! Original art, Parisian decor and much more can be found at the new location of Huff Harrington Home, Huff Harrington Fine Art and Huff Harrington Design at the Galleries of Peachtree Hills. Primely perched next to the Atlanta Decorative Arts Center, the 8,500-squarefoot space consolidates all three businesses under one roof, with a chic showcase of French antiques and imports, decorative accessories, jewelry and gifts on the first floor; a gallery of nearly 40 global

artists on the second floor; and design services on the third floor. Ann Huff and Meg Harrington launched their artful enterprise in Buckhead in 2006, growing the multifaceted business while hosting sightseeing and shopping trips to Paris and Provence. huffharrington.com @huffharrington

GOLDEN TOUCH American luxury jeweler David Yurman has opened a posh new boutique on the ground level of Lenox Square in Buckhead, expanding its

previous space by 700 square feet to feature a curated collection of women’s, men’s and wedding designs. In conjunction with the launch, the brand announced a unique partnership with Savannah College of Art and Design that includes a $1 million donation of gemstones from its private collection to SCAD’s jewelry program, as well as an endowed scholarship to be awarded to a jewelry design student from SCAD’s School of Fashion. davidyurman.com @davidyurman

January/February 2022 | Simply Buckhead

LOCAL SALUTE

BY:

Mickey Goodman

Left: Lasagna Love chefs share nourishment and kindness. Below: Atlanta founders Kelley Kolling (left) and Kirsten Glaser provided meals for first responders to commemorate the 20th anniversary of 9/11.

Strengthening Communities Providing love and lasagna In mid-2020, Buckhead resident Kelley Kolling and East Cobb resident Kirsten Glaser learned about Lasagna Love while listening to segments on WXIA-TV’s evening news and NBC’s “The Today Show.” They decided to establish a group in Georgia to provide lasagna to people in need and spread kindness. “It started with just the two of us and has grown to more than 600 ‘chefs’ who deliver an average of 4,000 meals a week,” Kolling says. Lasagna Love quickly spread on social media and became a movement in all 50 states, Canada and Australia, powered by more than 20,000 chefs around the world. The concept took root in San Diego when Rhiannon Menn saw some of her neighbors struggling due to job layoffs, loss of childcare or COVID-19 and began making

trays of lasagna that she delivered outside their doors. On the 20th anniversary of 9/11, the organization’s nationwide focus was on first responders, and Kolling and Glaser delivered meals to Fire Stations 21 and 27 in Buckhead. “It’s a hard day for anyone wearing a uniform, and we wanted to share love along with some comfort food,” Kolling says. Her most memorable recipient was a single mother with two young boys who lost her job as a result of COVID-19. “She told me that our lasagna made 14 separate meals for her family when otherwise they might have gone hungry.” For more information, visit lasagnalove.org.

Take the Plunge

Every Superhero Needs a Cape During the pandemic in 2020, photographer and digital artist Courtney Buchanan looked for new ways to use her creative energy. She tried hand drawing designs and selling them as prints, but it just didn’t feel right. When a friend told her that they had an element of silk scarves, she embraced the idea and founded CB Grey, a luxury silk collection. The timing was perfect for the Sandy Springs resident. “People were dressing from the waist up for Zoom calls, and scarves made the perfect accessory,” says Buchanan, who draws the designs by hand and then has them printed on silk. When the business took off, she wanted to find a way to give back. One way was to design a Superhero Scarf in honor of Pediatric Cancer Awareness Month in September. “Anyone

Atlanta Volunteer of the Year Nancy Overheim, Carmen Hermes and Paralympian McClain Hermes.

Volunteers honored for long-time service At the 2021 October Swim Across America-Atlanta event at Lake Lanier Olympic Park, Sandy Springs residents Nancy Overheim and her husband, Mark, were honored as Volunteers of the Year for their longtime service. She served as safety coordinator, and Mark was in charge of set up and break down, both essential to the success of the swim that raised more than $425,000 for the Aflac Cancer and Blood Disor-

Superhero scarf creator Courtney Buchanan and her son, Grey, deliver scarves to children at CHOA.

ders Center at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta. They even used their garage as a staging area for the event. Overheim became involved with the organization after meeting founders Sheri Hart and Megan Melgaard in 2013 at the Cherokee Town and Country Club where she was the swim coach. She quickly

January/February 2022 | Simply Buckhead

became hooked on the group and its mission. Since inception, SAA-Atlanta has raised more than $2.7 million and was honored with a named lab at Aflac. “It’s a thrill to talk with researchers about the latest treatments and to see our name on a plaque outside the door,” Overheim says. The event drew 425 swimmers, including 33 teams and a number of Olympians and Paralympians

Young heroes soar

battling cancer is the most super of superheroes,” she says. What makes the scarves even more meaningful to her is that her son Grey, 2, and godson, Phillips Smith, 5, had a hand in their creation. “I gave them each iPads and let them go,” she says. “The result was a Jackson Pollock-ish design in bright colors with stars printed on a kid-friendly cotton and silk blend fabric. Most kids wear them as superhero capes like the heroes they are.” Buchanan donated 100 Superhero scarves to young patients, 50 to CHOA and the remainder to CURE Childhood Cancer. For every scarf or shawl purchased, she donates a head scarf to a woman who is currently battling the disease. For more information, visit shopcbgrey.com.

who ranged in age from 12 to senior citizens. “Swimming in open water is very different from being in a pool,” Overheim says. “Since the water isn’t clear, you can’t see the bottom, and the weather and the water temperature are always unpredictable.” For more information, visit swimacrossamerica.org.

Want to nominate a volunteer, company or nonprofit that gives back to the community in Buckhead, Brookhaven, Chamblee, Dunwoody, Sandy Springs or Upper Westside? Please contact: editor@simplybuckhead.com

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TR AV E L NE A R

Above: The rooftop bar overlooks Cascades Park and is known for “The Charlie,” a purple gin cocktail. Left: The Tallahassee skyline includes views of the state capitol.

STORY:

Caroline Eubanks

efore making the 4.5-hour drive from my home in Atlanta through the small towns of south Georgia, I had little to no knowledge of Tallahassee. The city’s reputation as the home of Florida State University preceded it, so I went into my trip with an open mind, curious to see what a person who graduated many years ago could enjoy in a college town. I drove into town on an oak-lined street straight out of a postcard before making my way into the city center. I passed the historic state capitol, with its red-and-white window awnings that make it look like a resort, and the surrounding buildings where the legislators work. A few blocks away, I checked into the new AC Hotel by Marriott Tallahassee Universities at the Capitol, a sleek property overlooking Cascades Park. I dropped my bags to explore, starting with the park. It has an amphitheater that hosts live music, a playground, two restaurants in the city’s former power plant and connects to the 2.5-mile Capital Cascades Trail. I went to the hotel’s eighth floor to grab an evening drink at Charlie Park, Tallahassee’s first rooftop bar. I tried the purple-hued Charlie, the bar’s signature cocktail made with lavender syrup and Empress Gin. It was the ideal refreshment as the sun set over the city, especially paired with the chocolate pretzel trifle. The next morning, I fueled up with a croissant and Spanish omelet at the hotel before an active day, starting with the zipline course at the Tallahassee

Museum. The sprawling 52-acre outdoor museum lets visitors soar above the cypress swamp that features metal sculptures modeled after dinosaurs. On a mission to pick up some souvenirs, I sought out the city’s best shopping, starting with the Railroad Square Arts District. The mural-covered warehouse neighborhood is home to restaurants, vintage boutiques, art galleries and a small arthouse cinema. That evening, my friends and I drove down a rural road to the legendary Bradfordville Blues Club. The cinderblock building under neon lights has been hosting some of music’s best artists since 1964. The interior is covered in paintings of these famed musicians such as BigEyes Willy Smith and Johnny Winter. The next morning, in need of a detox, I joined an outdoor yoga class at Maclay Gardens, a state park set around a 1923 estate. The sounds of the fountain and the soothing voice of the instructor calmed my mind and body. After a quick detour at Hearth & Soul, a gorgeous home decor and clothing boutique owned by Susie Busch-Transou of the St. Louis brewing

The Bradfordville Blues Club has hosted notable acts since the 1960s.

January/February 2022 | Simply Buckhead

family, it was time for brunch. Jeri’s Midtown Cafe was the perfect spot for a meal. The garden courtyard gets crowded, so go early to enjoy gouda grits with apple butter and chicken salad croissant sandwiches. Afterwards, I browsed the stacks at Midtown Reader, the bookstore upstairs. The day’s activities were far from over. I borrowed a bike from a local outfitter and hit some of the more than 700 miles of trails throughout the city. I rode back to the hotel on a paved section of the Capital Cascades Trail, following a former rail line. Enthusiastic cyclists can ride all the way to the coast. I secured a table at Il Lusso, one of the top restaurants in Tallahassee, for

Visit Tallahassee

Above: Il Lusso is one of Tallahassee’s most praised restaurants, crafting artful dishes such as seared octopus.

Visit Tallahassee

TALLY HO

A capital city getaway to Tallahassee

The AC by Marriott Tallahassee has the brand’s European-inspired design.

my last night in town. Located steps from the capitol, the restaurant has a lengthy wine list and artfully prepared steaks, seafood and Italian dishes. I fell asleep easily that night, happy and full from my shrimp ravioli. Before leaving town, I packed up my car with the goodies and souvenirs I’d purchased and made my way to brunch at Table 23, set in a former home. I sat underneath the oak trees and enjoyed chicken and waffles, my brunch dish of choice, while reminiscing about the trip, pleasantly surprised that Tallahassee has plenty to attract both students and alumni alike. n DETAILS AC Hotel by Marriott Tallahassee Universities at the Capitol 850.392.7700 marriott.com, @achoteltallahassee Visit Tallahassee visittallahassee.com, @visit_tally

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T R AV E L FA R

Above: The writer on a red-rock ledge at the end of the Cathedral Rock hike. Left: The Enchantment Resort is tucked into Sedona's Boynton Canyon.

Spiritual Renewal A Sedona getaway is supercharged with good vibes STORY:

Karina Antenucci

turned 20 in a New York nightclub and 30 on a “tour de Vegas.” To celebrate my fourth decade around the sun, I chose a location where the only noise was the crunch of my hiking shoes on a trail, and the majority of lights at night were those beaming down from the sky: Sedona, Arizona. Known for its mystical energies and plethora of hiking and biking trails among its stunning red rock landscapes, Sedona is a popular destination for spiritual seekers and outdoor adventurers alike. This combination was a win-win for me and worth the journey that included a 4-hour-and-15-minute flight to Phoenix from Atlanta and 2-hour car

ride to the luxurious Enchantment Resort set off the area’s beaten path in Boynton Canyon. On the drive in, my group, which included my husband and two friends, stopped to check out Montezuma Castle National Monument. The impressive, well-preserved dwellings in Camp Verde that were built high up into the rock face by the Sinagua, indigenous people of the Southwest, made one reflect on how easy daily life is today in comparison. The next stop included a roadside stand to sample Native American fry bread, which tasted similar to a savory beignet. Once at the resort, we settled in at casual restaurant Tii Gavo and ordered up a storm, including loaded nachos, guacamole, fish tacos and uber-delicious margaritas, then retired

A treatment in an Enchantment Resort spa suite is the perfect treat after a day of hiking.

January/February 2022 | Simply Buckhead

to the nearby pool with views of breathtaking red rocks that changed color with the sun’s movements. During our stay, we also enjoyed the property’s fine-dining restaurant, Che Ah Chi, focused on American cuisine with Native American influences. With such beautiful topography to explore, I hiked almost every day during my week-long stay. Energy vortex hikes are must-do. Vortexes, or vortices, are thought to be centers of energy in the Earth that are conducive to healing and meditation. Did I feel the tingling in my hands or inexplicably break into tears like others have reported? No, but I felt the peace, exhilaration and spiritual openness that comes with being in nature and experiencing these particularly unique landscapes and climbs. Favorites included the Boynton Canyon Trail, which can be as long as 7.3 miles or as short as 1.1 to just experience the Boynton Vortex Trail. Cathedral Rock is strenuous but has the most rewarding views at the very top. Tip: Skip the popular Airport Mesa trail and drive to the top for the sunset. And don’t hike after dark: As a designated International Dark Sky Community, the nights are black. Because of the lack of light pollution, stargazing is phenomenal. The Enchantment offers its guests complimentary stargazing sessions with an astronomer each week. Through various telescopes, we saw Saturn, Jupiter and its rings, star clusters and more up close. It’s pure magic. The resort’s programming includes several free

The writer and her husband took a day trip to the Grand Canyon for a helicopter tour.

and add-on activities such as a Native American Labyrinth walk meditation, yoga classes, mountain biking, tennis and more. The day spa offers a wide range of services including those of the spiritual sort such as astrology, past life regression and energy clearing. A 15-minute drive from the resort, Sedona’s Main Street district is filled with touristy haunts. If you love crystal shops like I do, there is no shortage of them here. I found my birthday treasure, a large honey citrine crystal that is said to boost creative imagination, at Peace Place. Another fun, albeit a bit woo-woo, activity is aura photography, where a biofeedback imaging camera takes a photo of you with your colorful, dynamic electromagnetic field; you receive a printout of what the aura colors mean. Between the time in nature, exercise and new experiences, Sedona renewed my spirit and recharged my energy to take on the adventures of the next decade. n

ENCHANTMENT RESORT enchantmentresort.com @enchantment_resort

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Photos: Brandon LaJoie

S TAYC AT I O N

Gastronomic GETAWAY The new Epicurean Atlanta offers a chic, culinary-focused hotel stay STORY:

Above: The 16-story Epicurean Hotel is part of the $530 million development at 1105 West Peachtree.

Giannina S. Bedford

otels combine all of my favorite things: travel, stylish interior decor and, of course, food. One of the newest members of Marriott International’s Autograph collection, Epicurean Hotel on West Peachtree in Midtown, prides itself on focusing on the latter, while keeping the former very top of mind. The Epicurean Atlanta, opened September 2021, is the second location of the brand, a collaboration between Mainsail Lodging & Development and Tampa’s legendary Bern’s Steak House. Known for its exemplary cuisine and jaw-dropping wine cellar boasting half a million bottles, Bern’s aims to transfer its gastronomic genius into the hotel experience through this new property. The multifaceted culinary concept includes two restaurants and the Epicurean Theatre, a state-of-the art show kitchen where guests experience and learn the skills of chefs, winemakers, mixologists and more. Some recent events included rum tastings, wine pairing seminars and holiday dinners. The hotel also weaves in its namesake in other ways. At check in, I was offered a complimentary glass of Sauvignon Blanc or a sour beer by West Midtown’s Fire Maker Brewing Company. Each hotel floor is named for a wine varietal, displayed on an accent wall made of wine crates

Erik Meadows Photography

Above: Reverence's chef-driven menu pays homage to seasonal, local produce.

Below: The room's stylish bar showcases items from canned cocktails and craft mixers to pour-over coffee.

serving upscale, Latininspired tapas with a skyline view. After a mezcalinfused Zarzamora cocktail and a small serving The hotel's 178 guest rooms feature artisanal pantries of molcajeteand butcher block accents alongside striking city views. crushed guacamole with serrano chili, queso fresco from Bern’s Steakhouse. Halls and and totopos (corn chips), I tore myself guest rooms also showcase foodfrom the view to head to dinner. focused art: Pieces in my guestroom Aerial’s vacation-inspired tropical vibe on the Bordeaux floor paid homage was a contrast to the dark, modern to Mary Mac’s Tea Room, Ponce ambience I encountered at ReverCity Market and local produce, from ence, the lobby-level restaurant where Georgia shrimp to strawberries. suits gathered at the Office Bar for liOne of my favorite amenities bations. I met up with a friend, and we was the in-room bar, equipped with found our way to our high-top where pour-over coffee singles, an electric warm woods and leather seats set the kettle and a stylish floating bar with a tone for the seasonal menu of meats display of glassware, mixers, liquors, and seafood. We kicked off with a wine and canned cocktails that would Trilogy of Salmon (lightly smoked make anyone wish for happy hour. rillettes, bourbon-cured and caviarHigh up on the 15th floor, my room topped salmon) and the recommendoverlooked the one-acre Sky Terrace ed Chichirones Surf and Turf (wild that links the hotel with a Class A ofuni, avocado hummus, pork belly, fice tower and luxury residential conpomegranate). The inventive creations dominium. The central promenade is kept our culinary senses engaged home to a green space, outdoor pool and wanting more. For the mains, we with resort-style cabanas and Aerial shared the duo of grass-fed heritage Kitchen & Bar, an open-air restaurant

January/February 2022 | Simply Buckhead

beef and the roast halibut steak. The fish was slightly overcooked, but the beef, served with three sauces, was perfectly juicy. We enjoyed our meals and bottle of Boneshaker Zinfandel and left wondering about some of the other unique menu offerings, such as the Moroccan duck meatballs and bourbon shoyu-cured lamb tataki. Between the on-point decor, stellar Midtown location and thoughtprovoking food, Epicurean is the kind of place that leaves you wanting to come back for another taste. n EPICUREAN ATLANTA 470.283.2000 epicureanhotelatlanta.com @epicureanatlanta

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January/February 2022 | Simply Buckhead

A P P ROVE D

Olipop Sparkling Tonic ($2.50) Co-founder David Lester recently moved to Atlanta from California, making this sparkling, healthy alternative to soda company now Atlanta-based. Backed by microbiome science, Olipop tonics aim to nourish a healthy gut with prebiotics— and taste good. Nostalgic flavors such as vintage cola, orange cream and classic root beer may evoke childhood memories. Available at Whole Foods Market locations drinkolipop.com @drinkolipop

WE’LL DRINK TO THIS The options are no longer just water, iced tea or soda to sip on. An explosion in recent years of healthy beverages has seen the premium beverage business boom. New innovations, flavors and types of beverages promise all sorts of health boosts, ranging from antioxidants to vitamins. Here are a few locally available premium bevvies to seek out the next time you’re parched.

Cirrus CBD-Infused Sparkling Water ($5) From Atlanta’s own Second Self Beer Company comes Cirrus, a new CBD-infused sparkling water. It has 33mg of hemp CBD extract, no artificial sweeteners and zero calories. With flavors named after locations such as Kata, Key Largo, Ipanema and Waikiki, they’re all guaranteed to make you chill out and feel like you’re on vacation, even if only for a short while. Look for CBD-infused coffee, tea and lemonade from the brand up next.

STORY:

Purpose Tea ($3)

Available at Second Self Beer Company 678.916.8035 drinkcirrus.com @drinkcirrus

Available at Kroger locations purposetea.com @purpose_tea

Lauren Finney Harden

January/February 2022 | Simply Buckhead

New to Atlanta is Texas-based Purpose Tea. It’s a mission-driven beverage company that offers antioxidant-rich bottled purple tea, which can have up to 50% more antioxidants than green or black tea. Founded by a Vietnamese immigrant who escaped Communism in her home country, Purpose Purple tea helps empower those vulnerable in the process of making tea, namely female tea pickers in Kenya, where purple tea is harvested. It’s available in unsweetened as well as flavors such as watermelon mint and coconut lime.

Golda Kombucha ($5) Atlanta-based Golda Kombucha wants to make fermented beverages taste good, and it achieves that through a variety of delicious flavors, such as blackberry basil, hopped citrus, peach ginger and lavender lemonade. The sparkling tea beverage is a family recipe, passed down to Atlantan Melanie Wade from her grandmother, Golda. Having an event? The company has a mobile kombucha bar available for rent. Available at Floral Park Market 404.367.0200 goldakombucha.com @goldakombucha

Kalo Hemp Infused Seltzer ($5) This hemp-infused seltzer is new to Atlanta and comes in eight flavors, including blood orange mango, lemon lavender and strawberry watermelon. A patent-pending extraction technique allows you to get all of the goodness without any of that hemp taste. Void of preservatives and artificial flavors, including artificial sweeteners, Kalo is made from water-soluble hemp, which the brand says makes it easier to digest its phytonutrients, vitamins and antioxidants. Available at Savi Provisions Westside 678.974.7589 drinkkalo.com @drinkkalo

15 MINUTES WITH

ERIN MCCUTCHEON STORY:

Amy Meadows PHOTO: Joann Vitelli

rin McCutcheon boasts an impressive 25 years of experience in the corporate accounting and financial management arenas. A CPA by trade, she has taken on financial roles in a number of industries, including construction and landscaping. However, when she and her husband, Jim, launched Copiana in the fall of 2018, she quickly realized that they had entered uncharted territory. “There’s no training manual on how to run an aeroponic farming company that operates in commercial properties,” says McCutcheon, who serves as CEO and oversees the financial and strategic planning elements of the startup. “This has never been done before.” In fact, Copiana is the only company in the country that installs and farms vertical aeroponic towers in office buildings, apartment complexes and other commercial spaces. Currently, the towers can be found in Buckhead, Sandy Springs, Perimeter and up the Ga. 400 corridor, as well as in Midtown and Downtown. And people are clamoring for the towers’ fresh and delicious produce that is harvested by the Copiana team every four weeks and distributed by property managers to building tenants free of charge. Clients (the buildings) lease the towers, so there are no upfront costs; monthly costs per tower range from $290 to $340, depending on the decorative accessories included, and there is a three-minimum tower per location.

What made you and your husband decide to start this unique company? We were looking at different needs in the city, and we noticed that so many people are food insecure. Our idea was to try to get farms to be closer to the people. We thought we could bring these hyper-local farms right into commercial properties all over the city. What’s great is that aeroponic technology requires no soil; it just works with water and nutrients. So aeroponic towers can go into office buildings, schools, hospitals and other spaces. We just bring a tower to your property, plug it in, fill it up with water, put seedlings in, and you’re good to go. Why did you choose the name Copiana? It’s a take on the word cornucopia, the Horn of Plenty.

Why was Buckhead the right location to launch your business? The Buckhead commercial property market is highly competitive. Property managers are looking for a variety of ways to distinguish themselves and provide unique amenities. So you have this group of talented thought leaders who are looking for the next big thing and want to try something new for their tenants. They’re willing to see a new idea and take a risk on it. It’s a really good set of people who are willing to work with us to bring change to the city. How did you keep the business thriving during the COVID pandemic? Almost all of our clients decided to stay with us under contract during the shutdown. Even though their

offices were closed, our clients asked us to donate all of the produce from their towers to City of Refuge so they could give back, as so many people were struggling at the time. What has been the most rewarding part of this business journey? With our towers, property managers can be part of the greater ESG (environmental, social and governance) conversation. For so long,

being environmentally conscious was viewed as an either/or situation with being profitable. Now, you can do better for the Earth and your community while also being more profitable by driving more tenants to your building and creating higher levels of occupancy. It’s exciting for me to be able to help our clients do good. Which produce do you like best from the aeroponic towers?

There are so many things you can grow—anything except a root vegetable. We can grow lettuce, greens, peppers, cucumbers, tomatoes, edible flowers, squash, celery— you name it. But my favorite is the basil. It’s the best ever. It has so much flavor, COPIANA and the 678.944.7776 smell is copiana.com incred@copianafarms ible. n

January/February 2022 | Simply Buckhead

James Kovin, Unsplash

Amanda Klamrowski, Unsplash

P E TS

TOOTH BE TOLD THE DOS AND DON'TS FOR ENSURING YOUR PET’S SMILE IS HEALTHY

STORY:

Taylor Heard

BONUS TIP For dog owners: Don’t give your pup hard bones such as antlers or cow

ust as oral health is critically important to our quality of life and longevity, so it is with our cats and dogs. “Our pets dramatically benefit from having a healthy mouth, and being able to give them that makes all the difference in their comfort and allows them to live longer lives,” says Dr. Jodi Reed, practitioner at Veterinary Dental Center of Atlanta in Sandy Springs. Here, Reed encourages owners to make their pet’s dental health a priority by breaking down a few top dos and don’ts.

DO see your local vet regularly. When it comes to oral care, there isn’t a large difference between what’s needed for cats and dogs. Reed suggests, “At a minimum, young adult animals should have their mouths checked at least once a year at their annual physical exam, and as they age, bi-annual vet visits become very important.”

dogs as a resource. Each list offers a simplified breakdown of products (think water additives, oral gels, chew treats, dental diets and the like) that have been reviewed, tested and verified to reduce the risk of periodontal disease, which is the most common oral disease to affect cats and dogs.

DON’T assume your pet’s teeth are fine because they’re white. Dr. Jodi Reed, practitioner at Veterinary Dental Center of Atlanta in Sandy Springs

your pet once per year. Additionally, Reed urges pet parents to demand full-mouth dental X-rays be taken every time their pet is under anesthesia for a dental procedure. Fifty percent of their teeth are below the gumline and can only be seen with X-rays, which means many painful oral issues could be missed if a complete oral exam and X-rays are not performed.

DO plan for a professional cleaning once per year. While it may seem normal for pets’ breath to smell, well, not great, bad breath is actually a key indicator your pet is suffering from a dental hygiene issue. Such problems can be avoided by scheduling and planning financially for a professional cleaning for

DO implement plaqueprevention home care. “Daily tooth-brushing is the gold standard, but that’s not realistic or possible for many pet owners,” Reed says. She suggests using Veterinary Oral Health Council’s highly selective Accepted Products list for cats and

January/February 2022 | Simply Buckhead

When it comes to periodontal disease, buildup or damage may not always be obvious, since inflammation and infection largely affect areas below the gumline. If not caught and treated through professional dental Comprehensive Oral Health Assessment and Treatment (COHAT), it can lead to more serious issues with your pet’s other organs, such as the heart and kidneys.

DON’T opt for a nonanesthetic dental cleaning. While it may seem like you’re doing your pet a favor by not putting them under anesthesia, nonanesthetic dental cleanings are incredibly uncomfortable for pets—plus, they don’t allow veterinarians to complete a full examination or cleaning, which could lead to major dental health problems going unseen.

hooves to chew on. While they may help prevent plaque, Reed notes they often lead to other dental problems such as fractured teeth.

Reed also advises owners of senior pets not to assume their pet is “too old” for anesthesia for a professional COHAT. “Senior and geriatric pets have some of the worst, most painful dental diseases,” she explains. “Anesthesia can be tailored specifically to each pet's needs, even the older ones.”

DON’T assume your puppy or kitten can’t have dental problems. Even young pets aren’t fully protected from periodontal disease if proper care isn’t given. Reed says, “We see several dental issues in 8- to 10-week-old kittens and puppies, some of which are very painful and if not corrected right away can lead to a lifetime of dental issues.” n

DETAILS Veterinary Dental Center of Atlanta 770.807.9435 atlantaveterinarydental.com Veterinary Oral Health Council vohc.org, @petsmileofficial

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January/February 2022 | Simply Buckhead

K ID S

BABY BUMPS

EXPERT ADVICE TO HELP KIDS ADJUST TO A NEW SIBLING STORY:

Giannina S. Bedford

dding a new baby to the family is a huge transition, not just for mom and dad, but for big brother or sister, too. Some kids thrive as older siblings without much guidance, while others have a harder time adapting. We spoke with child experts Jody Baumstein, a licensed therapist with Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, and Lisa Miller, an associate professional counselor with the Buckhead office of Grow Counseling, to get their insights on making the shift to a “plus one more,” as smooth as possible. Give Them Time To Prepare A few months before the due date, start the conversation about the impending arrival. Keep the information as developmentally appropriate as possible. “Say things like, ‘The baby is growing in mommy’s belly.’ Use terms like being a big brother or sister. And then follow their lead. If they want to know more, they will tell you,” Baumstein says. Use books to explain what it means to be a sibling and expose them to other infants so they can get a sense of what babies are like. “Get some board books or picture books to explain where the baby grows,” Miller says. Dolls can be great tools to show how to take care of

a baby, and play can help young children process the news. “We want to give them plenty of time to ask questions, take in all the information and share their feelings,” Baumstein says. Validate, Don’t Shame Big Feelings If an older sibling begins acting out, becomes clingy or shows signs of regression—in potty-training or sucking their thumb, for example—don’t punish them. “These are normal, natural reactions to stress,” Baumstein says. “If you think they are looking for attention, give it so they don’t seek it out in negative ways.” Validate their feelings and be honest about what to expect. Miller suggests creating a safe place in the home where anyone, mom and dad included, can go to calm down when needed. “The caregivers can be role models for the sibling in how to cope with those big emotions,” Miller says. When it’s time to meet the little one, don’t add pressure to the introduction. “Give them chances to meet the baby while providing lots of guidance and support,” Baumstein says. “If they are uncomfortable, talk it through. Don’t force them.” Miller suggests doing the sibling introduction at the hospital or somewhere outside the home with just the parents and children. “This allows everyone to walk into the house together as a strong

January/February 2022 | Simply Buckhead

family unit,” Miller says. Get Them Involved Getting siblings involved can give them a sense of purpose. Invite an older child to help decorate the nursery or ask a preschooler to hand you a burp cloth or diaper. “Having that helper role, especially for a young child, can be very important and can build confidence,” Miller says. JODY BAUMSTEIN Don’t Add Unnecessary Stressors If potty-training or moving out of a crib is around the corner for the older sibling, make the transition far ahead of the due date. If not, wait until everyone is settled in the new phase of life before making big changes. “You want to avoid anything that is not necessary as far as stressors go,” Baumstein says. Prioritize One-On-One Time Spending one-on-one time with your firstborn is important, and it helps curtail jealous behavior. “We want the older child to feel they are still important and cared for,” Baumstein says. Call on other adult relatives to also help. “Maybe they can take the older sibling out to the park or to get ice cream,” Miller says. And when visitors come to meet the baby, remind them to engage your older child so they don’t feel ignored. n

strong4life.com @wearestrong4life

LISA MILLER @growcounseling.com @growcounseling

HOM E | B U L L E T I N B OA RD | TA S T E M A K E R

SIMPLY LIVING

HOME

Five-Star Spread P32

“We want our kids to be playing outside and using their imaginations as much as possible.” —Mary Stuart Iverson

The Iverson family transformed their home to fit their lifestyle, including spending as much time as possible outdoors. Photo: David Parham

January/February 2022 | Simply Buckhead

H OM E

Above: The open concept design of the new addition lends itself to day-to-day family life and weekend entertaining. Below: The 1920s stucco residence in Ardmore Park got a major update when the Iversons moved in.

Five-Star Spread A family of seven make their home dreams come true in a renovated 1920s dwelling in Ardmore Park STORY:

Giannina S. Bedford

PHOTOS: David

Parham

hen Mary Stuart Iverson first entered her Ardmore Park home in 2013, she was awed. As a realtor, she’d seen many impressive residences, but something about this one spoke to her. “When I walked in the door, I just started crying. I could just see our family here,” she says of the 1928 stucco residence. At the time, Mary Stuart and husband Joel Iverson, co-founder of Monday Night Brewing, lived in a 1,600-square-foot home in Berkeley Park. They had two boys with another on the way and needed more space. They soon became the third owners of the aforementioned two-story abode, which had hosted campaign parties for Jimmy Carter and benefits for the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra during its storied lifetime. While Mary Stuart fell head over heels for the

January/February 2022 | Simply Buckhead

dwelling, the outdated interior needed work. Before the Iversons moved in, the property underwent a four-month renovation that replaced the orange shag carpet with hardwood floors, updated the kitchen and mudroom, and reconfigured the upstairs bedrooms to have larger closets and updated bathrooms. A few years later, after expanding from three boys to four, the Iversons enlisted Lucas Tilton Resi-

Left: One of the casual dining areas is furnished in a Gabby Home table and a repurposed banquette that Marty Stuart picked up from the street and recovered in faux leather fabric. Below: The family room—adorned with a chandelier from Circa Lighting and sconces from the old screened porch—showcases art by Caroline Carr, which Mary Stuart gifted herself for her 40th birthday. Above: The mudroom’s practical design is taken up a notch with a wall-papered ceiling and cabinets painted in Pratt & Lambert Obsidian. Below: Star-patterned tile, quartz counter tops and pendant light fixtures give the upstairs laundry room a stylish flair.

“The only thing I would change is adding a second washer and dryer for the crazy amounts of laundry we go through daily.” —Mary Stuart Iverson “When we moved back in, I was pregnant with my fifth. We weren’t expecting a fifth, so we are short on lockers and have only four bar stools in the kitchen,” Mary Stuart says. “I just share a locker with the baby.” Built by Costelli, the mudroom’s six locker-room-style cabinets have shoe drawers and ventilation holes arranged in a star design that Mary Stuart drew. She also included a shelf in each locker with an electrical outlet to charge devices. “I hate screens, so they have to drop their screens when they get home from school and charge them,” Mary Stuart says. “The boys can keep all their junk in here so I don’t have to look at it.” The rest of the boys’ stuff overflows into the two-level playroom on the home’s second floor, also part of the most recent reno-

dential for a much larger overhaul, doubling the square footage to 6,360. “My husband said he didn’t ever want to live anywhere else. We’re conveniently located for both our jobs; we love the yard; we love the BeltLine at the end of the street and the walkability to Peachtree,” Mary Stuart says. “I said, ‘We need more than three bedrooms, so let’s add on.’” From June 2018 to June 2019, the Iversons lived in a rental so their home could be expanded. On the first floor, they added an open kitchen and living space as well as a guest bedroom where members of Joel’s large family (he is one of nine kids) stay while visiting. The main level also boasts a backyard entry foyer and mudroom custom-designed for the family, which added another boy to the family tree in 2019.

Below: The back entry foyer is accented with a Moroccan brass lantern from Chairish that Joel surprised Mary Stuart with on Mother’s Day.

H OM E

Left: The Iverson boys often pile into the master bathroom tub, which offers a view of the Atlanta skyline.

Above: The soothing master bedroom offers has high ceilings accented in cedar box beams.

Joel’s tucked away home office has a “secret” bookcase door leading to a storage closet.

Mary Stuart revels in her walk-in closet, adorned in chandeliers and a palm frond window treatment.

January/February 2022 | Simply Buckhead

vation. High ceilings accommodate a “Lego loft” overlooking the lounge space below. On family movie nights, a large projection screen descends strategically over a built-in bookshelf. “We don’t have a TV; we only have a projection screen,” Mary Stuart says. “We want our kids to be playing outside and using their imaginations as much as possible, so we don’t do screens during the week.” With a trampoline, in-progress treehouse and landscaping by Thorn Garden, it’s easy to get the family outdoors. The patio of FireRock pavers features an Elegant Earth table that doubles as a ping-pong court and a cooking space with a Big Green Egg, a kegerator with three taps (pouring beer, homemade kombucha and sparkling water) and two Ooni pizza ovens. “The outdoor space was something I spent the most time obsessing about. From the hardscaping and artificial turf, which sees lots of wrestling, and outdoor kitchen with poured concrete countertops, it’s built for

both resilience and fun,” says Joel. The two-tiered backyard also has a detached garage and au pair suite (added in second renovation) and a custom hot plunge pool or “onsen” inspired by Joel’s childhood in Japan. The fast-warming water feature and the nearby outdoor shower are used by the family year-round. While the backyard is home to most of Joel’s favorite amenities, Mary Stuart is particularly fond of her two dishwashers, spacious laundry room and master suite. In the master bedroom, high ceilings rise above a custom powder blue velvet upholstered bed and leather and Lucite bench. Off to the side is Mary Stuart’s home office, painted in Farrow & Ball Green Blue No. 84 and furnished in a high-glossed Chinese campaigner desk that belonged to her grandmother. Across the room is the swoon-worthy master bathroom with black-and-white tile, a shower with a glass and iron door and window, and

THE IVERSONS’ TOP 3 TIPS FOR ENTERTAINING OUTDOORS 1. Having a great line of sight is important. Think about how you will watch little kids from the grilling area or where adults are spending time, making sure spaces are handicap accessible and hiding the junk. No one likes to entertain outside and have to stare at the trash and recycling bins! 2. Use the trees! There is nothing more romantic than having a chandelier hanging from a tree for al fresco dining. Or hang a swing for some family fun under a tree. We were sad to cut down a large tree to build our garage. We saved a 10-foot section and are using it as the base of our sons’ tree house.

Above: Designed by Wayne Vassey of Thorn Garden, the outdoor space was a focal point of the renovation.

a stand-alone tub strategically placed for the view. “South-facing houses are really important to me for the natural light. This house faces south, and we have a city view. At night, I love seeing the Midtown buildings, especially in the winter,” Mary Stuart says. Through the bathroom are the couples’ hisand-her closets. Joel’s section is barely filled with his casual collection of clothing, and Mary Stuart’s features chandeliers originally in the front entrance hall, a custom palm window treatment and displays for her shoes and handbags. “I chose the smaller closet because it was more private. With all the boys, I wanted my own space,” Mary Stuart says. With the help of Virginia Cheek Designs, the lady of the house also claimed her stake by infusing a light Mediterranean-style decor into the interior inspired by her time spent with her grandmother in West Palm Beach. “I want my house to feel like a vacation home,” she says. The kitchen showcases Bianco Rhino marble countertops, warm white oak cabinets and a stucco hood mirroring the façade of the fireplace. Facing the hearth is a sofa from her grandmother’s house and two chairs Mary Stuart salvaged from a model condo. The living area also boasts a wet bar with antiqued mirror backsplash, blue leather cabinets to match the kitchen barstools and a Ferguson brass sink with a custom decorative brass dowel. “I saw a picture of an old Italian sink that had the brass dowel detail and got a [craftsman] to make it to match,” Mary Stuart says. The living area offers three casual eating areas, but more upscale meals take place in the dining room, located in the original footprint. The home’s 93-year-old wing also includes a formal living room and Joel’s office, an alcove painted in Pratt & Lambert’s Obsidian with a “secret” bookcase door that opens into a storage closet (formerly a hard-to-reach powder room).

3. Consider your lighting. Lighting is such an important tool for entertaining. Make sure you have good lighting for evening activities, whether that is a string of party lights, landscape lighting or the glow from an outdoor fireplace.

Above: The cavernous, two-story playroom offers more than enough room for the Iverson’s five boys to romp around. Left: The Iverson boys create Lego masterpieces in their playroom loft.

After living in their renovated home for more than two years, Mary Stuart is as passionate about it as ever. Her only regret is a minor one. “We love our home and are so thankful we were able to add on before COVID hit,” Mary Stuart says. “The only thing I would change is adding a second washer and dryer for the crazy amounts of laundry we go through daily.” n

Right: Off the master bedroom is Mary Stuarts sun-lit, minty green office.

January/February 2022 | Simply Buckhead

BULLETIN BOARD

BY:

Giannina S. Bedford

David Maddox (above) and Robert Pittman (below) from Tuxedo Mosquito Control offer tips to keep your time outdoors unburdened by bugs.

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Mosquito-Free Zone E

veryone looks forward to warmer months when they can spend evenings outdoors, but as the temperature rises, so does the mosquito population. Good news: We don’t have to let these pesky insects ruin our backyard parties. To get a head start on bug prevention, we spoke with Tuxedo Mosquito Control owner Robert Pittman and company founder David Maddox about what can be done to mitigate mosquitos. What mosquito control treatments does your company offer? DM: No. 1, our automated misting systems, and No. 2, a spray service where a technician treats the property with a product designed to kill and repel mosquitoes. The products

are a synthetic form of crushed chrysanthemum flowers. The other option is an essential oil-based product that is a more organic option. What other ways homeowners can keep mosquitoes from breeding? DM: Paying attention to your yard is very important because mosquitos need stagnant water to breed. The little plates you put under your plants on the deck, bird feeders and children’s toys that collect water [are culprits]. It’s important for the homeowner to make sure those things are either dry or rinsed out on a regular basis. And make sure you keep gutters clean because the leaves and debris will cause dams that create habitats for mosquitos.

DESIGN & REAL ESTATE NEWS

When does your company typically begin treatments? DM: We start de-winterizing our misting system customers in March to get them out in front of the mosquito problem and start our spray service in April. Why is it important to start early? DM: Female mosquitos are the ones that bite, so we want to interrupt that life cycle and keep them from laying eggs in our yard. Eggs can be dormant for up to two years waiting for a water source, and once they get a permanent, stagnant water source, they pop out as adult mosquitos. It only takes enough water to fill a bottle cap to breed a huge number of mosquitos.

development, The Interlock. The company’s fourth location in Georgia gives shoppers a place to sample “Sactionals,” premium foam bean bag chairs called Sacs and peruse associated home decor accessories. lovesac.com, @lovesac

n Known for its adaptable modular couches, The Lovesac Company recently took up residence in West

Midtown. The home furnishing brand occupies a 1,215-square-foot showroom at SJC Ventures’ mixed-use

n Atlanta-based Loudermilk Homes is taking its talents to the western mountains of North Carolina. The luxury custom home builder’s first development in Cashiers is called Saratay Falls, a com-

RP: If you let your mosquito population build up in March, April, May and June then your July, August and September will be exponentially worse because you haven’t done anything to interrupt that life cycle. What does your company do to minimize the effect on pollinators? DM: We spray at times when the pollinators are not actively foraging for food therefore protecting pollinators. RP: We position nozzles away from pollinator areas, and the way we apply the spray with backpack blowers allows us to avoid flowering plants. n tuxedomosquitocontrol.com @tuxedomosquito

munity with a 40-foot natural waterfall and 20 private estate lots with homes starting in the $1.8 million range. The company is also building homes in the communities of Bear Mor in Highlands and Cedar Hill and Lonesome Valley in Cashiers. This is Loudermilk Homes’ first major expansion outside metro Atlanta. loudermilkhomes.com @loudermilkhomes

n Spain-based Cosentino opened a showroom in the heart of Buckhead. This is

the second North American location for Cosentino Group, a producer and distributor of surfaces for architecture and design. Its new technologyforward, 3,824-square-foot space offers 3D visualizations, to-scale digital product renderings and full-slab digital displays as well as a kitchen to host events and co-workinginspired networking corners where designers can work and host clients. cosentino.com @grupocosentino

January/February 2022 | Simply Buckhead

TA S T E MA K E R

also want to make sure everything’s not melamine on the inside. It’s a slick, plastic-y finish. Always look at the back of the piece, too, because that’s where you can tell how the construction is. That said, keep in mind that if you’re buying an antique French piece from the 1700s or 1800s, they used an unsightly piece of wood on the back, so make sure you’re not throwing out the baby with the bathwater. They put the beautiful wood on the facade. As a designer, how do you balance your own aesthetic and the aesthetic of the client? I love to put old with new, and I feel every room needs a diverse number of elements to make it visually interesting. I like a hero in the room. If I think about my own place. I have a Gothic altar from southern France that sets the tone for the living room. Even if you’re a midcentury lover, and you only want midcentury, I’ll probably push for an antique or two to be thrown in because you need something warm to soften it. But I can make you the midcentury home that you want. A good designer can take the knowledge base and apply the principles that they follow to the exact aesthetic of what you like.

CatMax Photography

How do I find that special piece if I don’t necessarily have that design eye? I think studying rooms can give you examples of where a hero is. Is it a light fixture? Is it a piece of art? Is it the rug? Is it a piece of furniture? Is it an antique? Then build around it, whatever that one piece is.

HOLDING OUT

FOR A HERO Steve McKenzie explains how to find the star of your space STORY:

Nicole Letts

triking interiors shouldn’t just be the domain of the upper-crust, according to Buckhead-based designer and artist Steve McKenzie. “I firmly believe everyone deserves great interior design, not just the wealthy,” he says. “If you express to me, ‘I don’t think I can afford this,’ I will try to find

someone from the [design] community whom you could afford.” That’s the mark of someone who truly loves what they do, and McKenzie exudes passion for his craft. He’s been in the home industry since college. While at Butler University in Indiana studying chemistry and business, McKenzie worked at SherwinWilliams’ research labs designing color palettes, eventually worked in product

January/February 2022 | Simply Buckhead

design for Leewards Creative Crafts, the precursor to Michaels, and later became the vice president of marketing for Larson Juhl, an Atlanta-based framing wholesaler. While McKenzie’s namesake design firm is a mere 10 years old, he has an invaluable lifetime of experience. Below, McKenzie shares his favorite sourcing spots, his predictions for 2022 design trends and his go-to interior tips and tricks. Given your product design background, what do you advise consumers to look for when selecting a quality piece of furniture? Construction is everything. Look at the way the drawer box is built. You want to look for a dovetail box. You

Where are some of your favorite places to source? I love Huff Harrington and Peachtree Battle Antiques. I also like Interiors Market, especially the new one that’s uber curated on Miami Circle. I love Antiques & Beyond for busts, cocktail glasses and other vintage cocktail wear. Do you consider glasses and cocktail supplies a part of interior design? Absolutely. If we’re doing a bar, we’re going to outfit the bar. What do you think is trending for 2022? I really think brown furniture is coming back strong. Prints are big for fabric and textiles. I think everybody’s open to some form of print right now. n

STEVE MCKENZIE 404.618.0422 stevemckenzies.com @stevemckenzies

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

The Road to Recovery P46

“It’s so rewarding to be part of the solution.” —Carter Pope Jr.

Carter Pope Jr., CEO of Buckhead Behavioral Health, used his own experience to find resources for others. Photo: Joann Vitelli

January/February 2022 | Simply Buckhead

FAS H I O N

Austin Presley

Expect hard-to-find brands such as Mugler, Bibi van de Velden, Thom Browne, Rick Owens and more at ANT/DOTE.

FASHION REMEDY Buckhead resident Lauren Amos brings her fashion concept ANT/DOTE to Upper Westside STORY:

Lauren Finney Harden

auren Amos has had a fashion dilemma. For more than 20 years, she’s wanted to shop particular styles and designers in Atlanta but hasn’t had access to them in her hometown. That meant going to New York, Tokyo or Paris to shop. You might have seen her around town in her architectural outfits, from designers such as Iris van Herpen and Comme des Garçons, while perusing art at the High Museum or at other galleries, as she is a passionate art advocate and collector. But now this Atlantan wants to bring home the caliber of fashion she’s seen internationally, and she

knows Atlanta is ready for it. “I think there’s a lot of people with passion who know a lot about designers and are curious and interested,” she says. “And they’re ready to have access to these pieces that they may not have had access to before.” All of this meant creating an oasis in the middle of Atlanta, one like ATL has never seen before. Amos, who is inspired by Rei Kawakubo and Jun Takahashi’s retail endeavors in Japan, found a space on the Upper Westside that spoke to her desire for the building to have a sense of history but also to her need for a convenient location. A preview space on Moreland Avenue in Little Five Points preluded the permanent one. The new store, ANT/DOTE, which

January/February 2022 | Simply Buckhead

is slated to open in February, feels like a museum of sorts, with museum-quality pieces, many of which are exclusive to Atlanta. Sculptures, paintings and more from local Atlanta artists will dot the space. But Amos is adamant she does not want anyone to feel like they are in a place of reverence. “I really want people to get in there and try on the clothes and feel like a million dollars, and to not feel intimated by this experience,” she says. Amos, who is partnering with friend and co-founder Eugene Rabkin, will bring quite a few fashion heavy-hitters, such as Junya Watanabe, Hyke and Dries van Noten, to name a few. But she wants to avoid elitism at all costs. “I hope to create an environ-

ment where every single person is welcome. And even if you can’t afford anything in the shop, we can sit around and talk about fashion. I want to help cultivate an excitement around fashion and a community,” she says. There will be many exclusives but also a good mix of designers and brands Amos just likes, such as Wolford, Rick Owens and Jil Sander. Expect jewelry from brands such as Bibi van der Velden and Paco Rabanne. Scents from Perfumer H and Mad et Len will also be on offer, both of which are exclusives. ANT/DOTE will be the first store in the U.S. to carry Perfumer H’s new hand-blown glass bottles, specially made with ANT/DOTE’s name on each bottle. The motto of ANT/DOTE is “one must be absolutely modern,” which is reflected in not only the assortment but also the building itself. The exterior is made from pressed and stained concrete imprinted with wood that acts as a palette cleanser before you enter. Hand-poured terrazzo floors and plaster walls are beautifully made but quiet to give the fashion a proper showcase. As for what “absolutely modern” means to Amos? “It’s a strive for excellence, a strive for beauty, a strive to be the best I can be,” she says. “It’s about human excellence, about culture, about progress, about never resting on our laurels.” And, of course, the clothing. She says, “I can’t ANT/DOTE sleep at night 404.777.7525 sometimes, I get antidotestyle.com so excited about @antidotestyle clothing.” n

B E AU TY

WE TRIED IT!

What: Botox & Brightening

HydraFacial Where: Truffles Medispa in Buckhead

OUR TEAM SHARES FIRST-HAND EXPERIENCES Sara Hanna FOR MUST-TRY TREATMENTS

STORY:

PHOTOS:

What: Dry Brushing Where: Spa Sydell STORY:

Joanne Hayes

kin is the largest organ in the body, responsible for eliminating most of the toxins, yet the skin on our bodies is less cared for by most of us who tend to pay more attention to our faces and necks. Simple techniques can help, including the little-known practice of dry brushing. The process involves brushing the skin with a bristled brush for three to five minutes per area, in strokes toward the heart. This technique massages the skin while exfoliating it, improving circulation and cleansing the lymphatic system. The practice was made popular by Finnish doctor Paavo Airola who used it on his patients more than 30 years ago. It’s now seen in spas, skin therapy clinics and cancer treatment centers in Europe. I checked in at Spa Sydell’s reception, changed into a comfortable robe and was brought to a dimly lit aesthetics room where soothing

music and a heated table created the perfect ambiance to encourage relaxation. As I settled into the rhythmic procedure, I found it very meditative. My therapist, Carol Hawthorne, explained all the benefits of dry brushing during the treatment, and I was surprised when my stomach started gurgling as the process also stimulates digestive organs. After the brushing, I luxuriated in a warm shower with spa bath gel to rinse off the dead skin and returned to the table where the treated areas were moisturized. I left feeling happy and lighter, and was given the brush

January/February 2022 | Simply Buckhead

to use in my daily skin care routine at home. Besides eliminating dead skin, dry brushing can help reduce the appearance of cellulite. Massaging the subcutaneous adipose tissue breaks down the toxins that accumulate, eliminating them through the skin and other filtering organs. Regular exercise and healthy eating help speed the elimination process. Other benefits include stress relief, nervous system rejuvenation, enhanced digestion and kidney functions, smoothing and tightening of the skin, and enhanced nutrition absorption (through topical products) by the skin. Since skin brushing is done as a dry service, it’s also a perfect pretreatment before airbrush tanning. Who doesn’t need that extra glow during the winter months? n DETAILS:

$80 for Dry Brushing 404.255.7727 spasydell.com, @spasydellatl

Karina Antenucci

rom my daily skin care products to my spa facials, my go-to beauty routine is almost 100% clean and natural. I never thought I’d do Botox, but then I had a kid and turned 40. Research has shown that having a baby can age you an additional two years on a cellular level. That might not sound like a lot, but I suspect it might explain my newfound forehead wrinkles. So when Physician Assistant Maggie Schreck, an injectables specialist at Truffles Medispa, invited me in for a skin consultation, my curiosity was piqued. Schreck patiently answered all of my questions about Botox. In considering the treatment, the most important thing to me was that it would look natural—not that frozenfaced appearance that we’ve all seen. She assured me that she’d go light and that the injections would offer a facial pick-me-up without looking obvious. Schreck also noted that if I didn’t like the results, it would wear off in about three months. So I agreed to have it done on the spot before I lost my nerve. Given my acute aversion to needles, my nerves kicked in, and I closed my eyes and hummed. Schreck used an alcohol pad to clean the area, applied an ice pack to prevent bruising and then poked my forehead and in between my brows 17 times in what she called a “light sprinkling across the whole area to evenly distribute the Botox.” It felt like pin pricks and was over within a couple minutes. While side effects can be light bruising and a headache/heavy-feeling forehead, I didn’t experience any. The smoothing effects should happen over a week, she noted, when I should come back for another consultation. Over the course of the week, I watched as my forehead slowly and subtly ironed out. I could still move my brows and make my normal facial expressions (phew!), except when I tried to frown. That just didn’t work. When I went back to see Schreck, she noticed one small spot where there was movement and added one injection so that everything was even. The icing on the cake was a

45-minute brightening HydraFacial with licensed aesthetician Brooke Manwaring to tackle my other skin woe: sun spots. The customized facial included a 15% glycolic peel, a brightening ZO Skin Health booster and LED red light to help lighten my hyperpigmentation. I felt like a million bucks. I purposely didn’t tell anyone about my treatments to see what folks would say. In the weeks that followed, I received several compliments on my skin. Best of all? No one said, “Did you get Botox?” Success! n DETAILS:

$350 for Botox (32 units), starting at $200 for HydraFacial ($50 extra per booster) 770.460.2000 trufflesmedispa.com @trufflesmedispa

What: HALO by Sciton

Hybrid Fractional Laser Where: AYA Medical Spa

in Buckhead STORY: Jennifer

Bradley Franklin

eauty industry pros often call fall and winter “laser season,” a stretch of time when we can be out of the sun, a prerequisite for just about any laser treatment. With this in mind, I scheduled a consultation with Amanda Thomas, a licensed aesthetician and laser practitioner with AYA

Medical Spa’s East Paces location. Though I’ve worn high SPF on my face just about every day since I was 12, the effects of a couple childhood sunburns and a sudden sprinkling of faint melasma on my forehead left me considering options. My goals included brighter, smoother skin on my face and neck, with reduced hyperpigmentation. Thomas recommended the HALO by Sciton Hybrid Fractional Laser, a

non-invasive treatment that combines two technologies for maximum results in minimal time. One treatment uses ablative (on the surface to remove damaged and dead skin) and non-ablative lasers (to heat the skin’s deeper tissues to tighten and stimulate collagen) for a result that equals five treatments with other lasers. It’s rated for just about any skin tone and can address issues such as sun damage, elasticity, age spots, hyper-

pigmentation, wrinkles and vascular conditions. I was sold. I arrived for my treatment nervous but prepared, thanks to a check-in from Thomas, including her recommendation to use Alastin Regenerating Skin Nectar, a balm that helps clear away damage and support the skin’s ability to produce healthy elastin in the two weeks leading up to the procedure. Thomas applied a topical numbing cream and gave me the PRO-NOX tube to breathe in a 50-50 mix of oxygen and nitrous oxide for a bit of pain and anxiety relief during the treatment. She started by measuring every area of my face with the machine’s wand to ensure the optimal coverage. The HALO system has builtin dynamic thermal optimization technology that takes the skin’s temperature and adjusts as needed to guarantee even coverage. The first few passes of the HALO wand on each area were tolerable, but the intensity increased as Thomas ran the laser over again and again. The whole procedure only took about 25 minutes, and I was grateful it was over. That night, I felt like my skin had an intense sunburn and that I was standing in front of a space heater. Ouch! I followed the instructions to use ice packs, take Benadryl to minimize the histamine response and sleep with my head elevated to reduce swelling. I woke up the next day with no pain and some puffiness, which continued to decrease throughout the coming days. Over the next week, my skin went through distinct phases: slightly red and swollen with visible pinpoints, bronzed with thousands of dark brown freckles called MENDS (microscopic epidermal necrotic debris, the damaged bits my skin was shedding), a sandpaper-like texture with flakes, and finally, pink baby skin peeking through. I stuck to a simple, twice-daily regimen of a gentle enzyme cleanser, antioxidantrich Alastin balm and high SPF—and tried hard not to touch my face. By day seven, I felt like I was looking at a new person. My skin glowed and appeared lit from within. I’m told that I’ll continue to see improvement over the coming months. Bottom line: The pain and less-than-lovely looks while my skin was healing were absolutely worth it. n DETAILS:

$1,650 for HALO face, $800 for HALO neck, $198 for Alastin Skin Nectar 404.600-3381 ayaskincare.com, @ayamedicalspa

January/February 2022 | Simply Buckhead

W E L LN ES S

Do You Need a Supplement? Local experts weigh in on how to find what’s best for you

STORY:

Karina Antenucci

ollowing your favorite Instagram star’s supplement regime for better health? Don’t. Supplementing should be an individualized wellness practice. To verify what supplements are optimal for your constitution, if any, work closely with your health care provider and get a blood panel, urine test or stool test. “We’re seeing a lot of high zinc intake these days to help with immune support, but not everybody needs zinc, and you could get copper deficiency if you take too much of it. The right balance is needed for good bones, hair and healthy immune system. Find a health care provider you trust, whether in primary care who takes a deeper dive or in the functional/holistic space, who can help determine what your body needs,” says Kristin Oja, who holds a doctorate in nursing practice and is the founder of STAT Wellness in Upper Westside. Oja, who specializes in functional medicine, offers an example of how she would advise a patient based on blood panel results: “The normal range for vitamin D is 30-100, but if your lab panel shows you at 31, that’s not optimal if we’re thinking about bone density, mood, immune support and cancer prevention. We want you to be closer to 60,” she says. Your trusted health care provider also will make sure supplements don’t conflict with prescribed medications and offer advice on how to take it and how much to take. A fatsoluble vitamin such as vitamin D, for instance, should be taken with food to enhance its absorption. Collagen,

Kristin Oja, DNP, founder of STAT Wellness

popular in powder supplements touting skin benefits, must be paired with vitamin C to have bioavailability for the body to absorb the collagen, notes Susanne Zellmer, co-founder of Buckhead-based DYO+, a new supplements brand. Since most people don’t get enough omega-3s in their diet, fish oil is often a supplement Oja recommends for overall wellness. The same goes for vitamin D, as clothes and/or sunscreen block vitamin D synthesis. And in a Western world where antibiotics are often over-prescribed and germs are frequently washed away, probiotics can help restore good bacteria in the gut, a positive thing for the immune system. Do some research to find quality over-the-counter supplements. It is not required by law, but some supplement manufacturers use third-party testing to show their commitment to producing a superior product free of harmful levels of contaminants and verify that it contains

January/February 2022 | Simply Buckhead

Susanne Zellmer and Patrycja Horodyska, co-founders of DYO+, created DYO+ My Skin Glow ($138) featuring 30 glass bottles for a month-long daily cocktail of collagen, vitamin C, zinc, vitamin A, vitamin E, biotin, copper and hyaluronic acid. The blend is said to enhance the skin’s elasticity and glow, as well as hair and nail strength.

what is stated on the label. Patrycja Horodyska, co-founder of DYO+, can’t say enough about a good manufacturer: “We were lucky to find a producer who has been in the business for four generations and over 100 years, and has all the strict German certifications as well as to add the FDA-approved label to our products.” The packaging can make a difference, too. “Look for amber-colored glass bottles to help the vitamins maintain their potency and ensure plastic microparticles don’t go into the product,” Zellmer says. Due to the many false claims on OTC supplements, Oja prefers pharmaceutical grade, which undergo strict testing. “The supplement industry is the wild, wild west,” she says. As for what form to choose, op-

tions range from oral pills, capsules, powders and liquid formulas to IV drips and injections, and even topical creams that absorb through the skin. It comes down to what your health care provider recommends and personal preference (some people hate needles or swallowing pills). “Medical studies have shown that liquid extracts have faster absorption rates, higher efficacy rates and are easier to digest,” DETAILS Zellmer says. Life is too DYO+ short not to feel dyoplus.com your best. “It’s @mydyoplus important to STAT Wellness know what’s go404.254.5905 ing on and get to statwellness.com the root cause,” @statwellness Oja says. n

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January/February 2022 | Simply Buckhead

TA S T E MA K E R

to stay relatively close to town, but the other options I was presented with were out of state. I was committed to being close to family because it was such an important piece of my recovery. Family really needs to be included in the process. That’s what we are trying to focus on—treating the entire family system. What sets BBH apart? We take adult patients, and we also take adolescents ages 13 to 18. It’s often difficult to find good adolescent treatment, and we are excited to offer this option to young people in the area. What sets us apart, though, is our clinical staff. We spent a lot of time working to find the right group of highly experienced and well-trained professionals. They really make a difference, and they focus on truly individualized treatment. There is no one fix that is going to get everybody well. The treatment has to be unique. It’s about getting beyond the substance abuse problem, finding what’s causing it and treating the source of the issue. What kind of response have you received from the Buckhead community? We’ve had nothing but support from the community and from the city. I grew up in Buckhead, and I just love it more than anywhere in the world. It’s so unique because you can get everything here. And I just want to help people. We see every day how horrible this disease [of addiction] can be and how it can tear people and their families apart. It’s so rewarding to be part of the solution.

The Road to

RECOVERY Carter Pope travels a new path with Buckhead Behavioral Health

hen Carter D. Pope Jr. was 29, he started down a path that led to a battle with substance abuse, and he struggled to find his way back. Bolstered by the support of his family, he got the help he needed and began the road to recovery. Though he searched for a treatment facility near home in Buckhead and intown Atlanta, he couldn’t find one that met his needs, including taking insurance. He ended up traveling nearly an hour to access the right care. With that memory always

STORY:

PHOTO: Joann

fresh in his mind, the former property and investment acquisitions specialist decided to start his own facilities. In September 2019, he founded Buckhead’s Creekside Recovery Residences, a local sober living facility. Buckhead Behavioral Health opened in October 2021, offering individualized and comprehensive addiction and mental health treatment through partial hospitalization and intensive outpatient services, such as detox, therapy, rehab and more. The new facility, which offers a safe, private

January/February 2022 | Simply Buckhead

Amy Meadows Vitelli

and luxury setting, is the realization of a dream for Pope, who serves as CEO. Along with President Alec Pagliarulo and Medical Director Dr. Rahul Gupta, he has brought a new and necessary option to the area. How did your own recovery lead to the creation of BBH? I had an incredible opportunity to get well, and I grabbed ahold of that. If quality, localized treatment had been available, I would have chosen that. But I had to go somewhere else. I was able

What are your goals for BBH? I would like this to be a true community resource where we are helping people get well from substance abuse disorders and mental health issues. I want it to be a place where everybody feels comfortable coming to get help. This is where it starts, and we are really trying to offer the full spectrum of care. What is your advice to someone who may just be starting their own journey to recovery? The hardest thing in the world to do is ask for help. You cannot do it alone, but you can do it. n BUCKHEAD BEHAVIORAL HEALTH 470.391.4603 buckheadbh.com @buckheadbh

Featured in:

DYOPLUS.COM

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Maggie Schreck, PA-C is a highly-skilled and sought-after injector treating patients in the Buckhead location of Truffles Medispa. Maggie is an injector trainer for both Allergan (the makers of Botox Cosmetic, the Juvederm portfolio, and Kybella) and Galderma (the makers of Dysport, the Restylane portfolio, and Sculptra Aesthetic). Maggie is also one of the very few injectors who trains physicians and other practitioners throughout the State of Georgia in the use of Sculptra Aesthetic for both the face and body. With more than fourteen years of injectable experience, Maggie specializes in Non-Surgical Aesthetic Rejuvenation. She is a true artist who loves working with patients to help them achieve their aesthetic

maggie schreck

goals. She is known for her excellent bedside manner, exceptional patient care, and innovative treatments that cannot be found at other practices. Maggie obtained her Bachelor of Science degree in Fine Arts from Miami University of Ohio and her Physician Assistant degree from Yale University. In addition to her extensive experience as an injector, Maggie has worked in the field of plastic surgery since 2007 assisting in surgery, preoperative care, and postoperative care. Maggie is a native of upstate New York and lives in Atlanta with her husband and two children.

Maggie Schreck, PA-C

TRUFFLES MEDISPA 2233 Peachtree Rd., Suite K,

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Atlanta, GA 30309

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adds or restores volume to the face with results lasting up to two years

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LITERARY

| ARTS BULLETIN

| TA S T E M A K E R

SIMPLY ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

ARTS BULLETIN

Spotlight: Creecy Comes Home P54

“...like discovering a treasure trove you’d think would be in the High or the Tate Modern in London.” —Donovan Johnson

The late artist Herbert Creecy’s “Floating Winds,” an oil acrylic collage and mixed media on canvas, created in 1997.

January/February 2022 | Simply Buckhead

L I T E R ARY

Unique Eats spotlights restaurant stories in Atlanta STORY:

Angela Hansberger

PASSPORT TO EXPLORE

rowing up in South Carolina, Amanda Plumb watched her parents hold dinner parties celebrating a different country each month. It involved library research and binders filled with recipes assigned to guests for the potluck. “I got to explore the world through food,” Plumb says. Her new book, Unique Eats and Eateries of Atlanta: The People and Stories Behind Food, dedicates a couple of pages to her own supper club, which she started with friends in 2011 after she moved to Atlanta a few years before. The Buford Highway Supper Club met at the restaurants along the famous international corridor. From there came something a bit more ambitious. Chow Club started in 2017, focusing on home cooks bringing their foodways and 50 of the club’s guests (of a roster of thousands) together each month at the host cook’s home or a secret location. Tables of six hear the stories of the featured chef and taste dishes

that play a role in the cook’s family. Publisher Reedy Press enlisted Plumb to put this formula on paper, and the timing couldn’t have been better, as it became available right when restaurants began opening after the pandemic shutdown. Where to begin such a daunting project? It wasn’t about making a “best of” list, but rather compiling interesting stories and cuisines—the people and places that give a sense of a neighborhood. “I had to ask myself, ‘What does it mean to be a unique eat?” Plumb says. “We don’t have one dish that is specific to Atlanta, but we do have interesting stories and so many different types of cuisine.” So she focused on chronicling the timeless tales that help tell the story of Atlanta. On Plumb’s quest for the right mix to cover, she found favorites along the way. “I had never been to The 57th Fighter Group,” she says. “It’s so campy and fun to drive up and see these broken-down World War II jeeps outside.” Find out how to get the best view and hear the control tower at the

January/February 2022 | Simply Buckhead

Chamblee spot on page 139. The book is chock-full of tips like these and others, such as off-menu dishes and the best way to experience a restaurant. Even with places she was fond of and visited often, Plumb found exciting origin stories. “I couldn’t write this book without R. Thomas [Deluxe Grill in Buckhead],” she says. “There is not a place quite like it, the circus atmosphere, parrots…” She learned owner Richard Thomas was the No. 2 guy at KFC in the 1970s and later cofounded Bojangles. When a healthy lifestyle evangelist pointed out his role in fast food in America, Thomas changed, becoming vegan. Another favorite story kicks off the book. Bell Street Burritos founder Matt Hinton was teaching religion at Morehouse in 2008 when his adjunct classes were canceled. He began making burritos using his copy of Tortilla restaurant’s burrito recipe the owners passed out when the beloved institution closed in 2003. He had 50 orders his first week. Bell Street now has three locations in Buckhead,

UNIQUE EATS ($22.50) is available on Amazon and at Barnes & Noble. If you order it on the author’s website, uniqueeatsatl.com, it comes signed and with a restaurant tracker bookmark.

Inman Park and Tucker. A fun secret leaked in the book: Bell Street serves tamales from scratch on Fridays. Unique Eats includes everything from doughnuts and coffee to white tablecloth dining at Bacchanalia. Use it as a checklist to both get out of and dig deeper into your neighborhood and explore food. n @unique_eats_atl

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2911 Northeast Parkway, Atlanta, GA 30360 ICC MC #355279 | US DOT #797586 | GPSC #8292 January/February 2022 | Simply Buckhead

ARTS BULLETIN

BY:

H.M. Cauley

HOW TO

CREATE A PICTURE GALLERY

hether it’s favorite family photos or reminders of the last fabulous vacation, placing those images in a prominent place can bring a smile when it’s least expected. Positioned all together, they can be transportive while transforming a dull, blank wall into a visual centerpiece. Framebridge Manager Mike Gramenz offers a few quick tips to designing a wall of artworks.

Above: Atlanta native Herbert Creecy was one of the shining stars of the city’s art scene. Left: Creecy’s “Yukimis Rose Oil and Mixed Media on Canvas” is just one example of his innovative style.

SPOTLIGHT

CREECY COMES HOME WORKS BY THE LATE MODERNIST ON DISPLAY AT BILL LOWE GALLERY

hen it comes to Atlanta arts royalty, the late Herbert Creecy is on the list. Raised here, he became a local sensation when the High Museum offered him a oneman show while he was still a senior at the Atlanta School of Art in 1964. His work has been collected by The Whitney Museum of Art in New York and the Corcoran Gallery in D.C. For years he reinvented his artform from a studio in Barnesville where he toyed with innovative uses for air-brushing and using polyurethane transfers and presses to form layers.

ART HAPPENINGS

Though Creecy died in 2003, a 2015 retrospective of his work by the Museum of Contemporary Art of Georgia brought a new following. Since then, the artist has been in high demand, says Donovan Johnson of Bill Lowe Gallery in Buckhead. “When we first saw his work in 2018, it was like discovering a treasure trove you’d think would be in the High or the Tate Modern in London. He has such a wide breadth of visual vocabularies: Some are extreme

2. On the craft paper, place the works that will be in the layout, leaving about 2 inches between the edges of each frame. Then trace the frames’ outlines with a pencil or marker. This practice step gives the chance to switch things up to find the right combination without impacting the wall. Framebridge 3. Once you’ve settled on a layout, start hanging!

404.793.2147 framebridge.com @framebridge

minimalism; others are extremely textural. In the last two years, we’ve sold 32 of his works, with price points between $50,000 and $300,000.” Later this month, Bill Lowe Gallery will showcase 15 to 20 of Creecy’s creations and publish a retrospective of his work. The timing is just right, says Johnson. “It’s our duty as a gallery to give the public a broader sense of the Atlanta art world and to uncover those things that history didn’t focus on or time passed over,” he says. “This Lowe Gallery show will ce404.352.8114 ment his work lowegallery.com in time.” n @billlowegallery

Trinity School Artists Market

include complimentary drinks and hors d’oeuvres.

From Jan. 31 through Feb. 5, Trinity School’s Spotlight on the Art features an artist market of original works by more than 350 established and new talents. Look for a range of categories, including contemporary, realism, representational, Americana and whimsical, to name a few. Admission is free; opening night and the Cocktails and Canvases event require tickets that

404.231.8100 trinityatl.org/ spotlight-on-art @spotlightonart

January/February 2022 | Simply Buckhead

1. Start by measuring the dimensions of the wall where the works will hang. Once the size is determined, buy some craft paper and cut it to those exact dimensions.

Nobuntu Ubuntu, the Nguni word describing compassion and humanity, is also the root of the name of the female quintet from Zimbabwe performing at City Springs Jan. 21. Nobuntu mixes traditional Zimbabwean music with

Afro jazz and gospel, in harmony with minimal percussion and accompanying dance. Founded in 2011, the group identifies as a new generation of women using their voices to celebrate and preserve their culture through art. 770.206.2022 citysprings.com @visitcitysprings

The Idyll Before the Storm: The Art of Rococo France From Feb. 11 through June

5, gaze into 18th century France through the lens of Rococo-style artwork on porcelain and paper at the Oglethorpe University Museum of Art. Pieces from Jacques-Philippe Caresme and JeanBaptiste Pillment are on display, as well as Sevres and Meissen porcelain. Admission is free; on Wednesdays, it’s open until 10 p.m. 404.364.8555 museum.oglethorpe.edu @oumuseum

January/February 2022 | Simply Buckhead

TA S T E MA K E R

What does it take to be a successful podcaster? CALLIE: Passion, passion, passion and great audio quality. Jeff gets so frustrated because he’ll see these people that are super famous, that are backed by networks that have billions of dollars, and their show is physically hard to listen to. It doesn’t cost $10,000 to have a great-sounding show. JEFF: It’d cost $200 (for a decent microphone). How do you bring passion into your show? CALLIE: It makes it exciting when you see someone that’s so fired up about what they want to talk about. Whether it’s the socks that you’re wearing or your favorite team, that’s what you can pour your soul into and get other people excited about it.

Morgan Hayes Photography

How does podcasting compare with radio? JEFF: In radio, there was so much jubilation on ratings day when you were No. 1, and then there was so much anguish when you dropped. And then I got into podcasting, and I realized it doesn’t have to be like that. If our show is good, and people are listening to it, I am going to make a lot of money. And if somebody else has a show doing as well as ours, they are also going to make a lot of money. I don’t have to beat anyone else down.

AIR BUDS

STORY:

Michael Jacobs

PODCASTING COUPLE JEFF AND CALLIE DAULER ARE GRATEFUL THAT LIFE IS ALWAYS LOOKING UP

eff Dauler finds it easy to see the upside of being fired as Star 94.1’s morning host in May 2019. The end of a quarter-century in radio freed him to join his wife, Callie, an executive assistant to HLN morning anchor Robin Meade, in launching a podcast, a newsletter and what they view as a movement of gratitude in August 2019. Posted on their website, callieandjeff.com, and other podcast platforms early Monday through Friday to catch morning commuters, each episode of The Upside with Callie and Jeff runs about 35 minutes. The Sandy Springs couple, who celebrated their fifth wedding

anniversary and the first birthday of daughter Ellie in October, bring their lives onto the recorded show. Some topics are fun or silly, such as Jeff’s dilemma about line etiquette in the Starbucks drivethrough. Others are serious, including Callie’s postpartum anxiety. Some are both: A funny observation of a neighbor keeping bees on his balcony developed over a week of shows to reveal that he’s an Afghanistan veteran who took up beekeeping for therapy and is bringing the hobby to fellow vets. They start each episode by stating something each is grateful for. Jeff’s light editing maintains a comfortable, casual, conversational tone, and the Daulers always find

January/February 2022 | Simply Buckhead

the bright side through the stumbles, laughs and tears. “Life isn’t perfect,” Callie says. “One of the parts that allows people to let their guard down when they’re listening to our show is ‘OK, these guys aren’t perfect either.’ For better or worse, we share it all.” The Upside is streamed or downloaded 30,000 to 35,000 times a week. About 60% of the audience is in Georgia, but listeners tune in worldwide. In addition to selling ads, merchandise and subscriptions, the Daulers have moved into production and consulting to help other independent podcasters make money, and Jeff is teaching courses at madetopodcast.com.

What do your listeners say they want to hear? JEFF: We are so open about mental health and anxiety. We want to find a way to continue to have that conversation but allow our show to remain a safe place. I think a close second is we are back to being fun and funny, and it is OK to laugh. How has hosting a show devoted to gratitude affected you? JEFF: The whole point of the podcast is that gratitude did change both of our lives. We went on a road trip to see Callie’s family in Kentucky, and on the way home Ellie had an upset tummy and threw up twice. The version of me that existed a decade ago would have been so upset, but we just dealt with it. CALLIE: When you start practicing gratitude every single day, it rewires your brain. So when those things do happen, you don’t notice. n callieandjeff.com @calliedauler, @jeffdauler

FROM OUR FAMILY TO YOURS May you and your loved ones have a happy, blessed new year.

womrestaurants.com

COV ER S TORY

Built to Last A sustainable lifestyle can be a major upgrade “Green,” “eco” and “sustainable” are buzzwords thrown around just about everywhere these days, but a recent Harvard Business Review noted that 65% of consumers surveyed said that while they want to buy purpose-driven brands that advocate for sustainability, only about 26% actually do. Those choices can have a big impact. Unilever, a global manufacturer of consumer products, estimates that almost 70% of its greenhouse gas footprint depends on which products customers choose and whether they use and dispose of them in a sustainable way. From recycling and composting to patronizing businesses that support eco-friendly goals and adjusting your home environment to prioritize health, this feature is packed with news you can use. The experts we spoke with echo the same sentiment: Small changes can make a big difference. Read on to find out how you might incorporate greener practices into your life for delightful results.

January/February 2022 | Simply Buckhead

Chef Freddy Money presents cover model Tati with a gorgeous plate at The Garden Room.

Serving Mother Earth Compostable packaging, oil filtering among ingredients for eco-friendly dining STORY:

Michael Jacobs PHOTO: Sara Hanna

ecycling, composting, working with local farmers, sourcing sustainable seafood and donating instead of trashing leftover food are among the ways restaurants have reduced their environmental impact in recent years. But the pandemic has tested their commitment to green operations. Sustainability becomes just one of myriad crucial concerns when supply chains are strained, employees are hard to find and keep and costs are soaring, says Karen Bremer, the CEO and president of the Georgia Restaurant Association. “Everybody is working to survive right now,” she says. Short-staffed restaurants struggle to spare workers to ensure that the compostables and recyclables go into appropriate bins, Bremer says. The sustained surge in takeout meals has forced restaurants to use any packaging they can find, even if they dislike plastic. “It’s disappointing not being able to fulfill your company’s [sustainability] goals and values due to supply chain issues,”

Bremer says. The crisis has created opportunities, however. The oil reconditioning provided by Filta Environmental Kitchen Services is more attractive after cooking oil prices have more than doubled since spring 2020. Filta’s microfiltration extends the life of oil, and eventually the company converts used oil it to biodiesel. Filta’s Atlanta franchisee, John Lopez, services about 30 commercial kitchens in our area. Better Earth manufactures compostable food packaging in Clarkston out of switchgrass grown in Tennessee. An estimated one-third of waste going into municipal landfills comes from food service packaging, says Buckhead resident Savannah Seydel, the company’s vice president of sustainability and impact. Even a bakery serving individual cake slices can make a big difference by switching from a plastic clamshell package to a compostable alternative, she says. “When a [restaurant’s] choosing

January/February 2022 | Simply Buckhead

between a Styrofoam clamshell and a compostable clamshell, they’ll choose the compostable clamshell because that is their perception of quality, and it’s healthy, beautiful and natural,” Seydel says. The Tavistock Group, which operates The Garden Room and Atlas at The St. Regis Atlanta in Buckhead, is making that switch. Distributor CompostNow is supplying the restaurants with Better Earth takeout packaging and in the long term hopes to support their composting, Seydel says. “I respect how they’re continuing to invest in local partners to support their needs,” she says, adding that she looks forward to educating Tavistock’s customers and developing broader sustainability initiatives. CompostNow helps complete the sustainability circle for compostable packaging. In addition to distributing the packaging, it services compost bins at homes and restaurants in the area, collecting and processing the organic waste into compost and distributing it back to customers and community garden programs. Nick Morrow, CompostNow’s chief growth officer, says restaurant partici-

pation picked up during the summer as more people returned to dining out. He estimates that a typical restaurant composts about 300 pounds of produce, meat, dairy, bread and foodcontaminated paper products a week. Composting and compostable packaging increase restaurant costs but could help with staffing by demonstrating a shared commitment to sustainability, Morrow says. It’s also important for customers to let restaurants know if they care about such efforts, he says. “Ultimately, for composting to be good for your business, your customers are going to want to keep coming back to support that.” n Better Earth becompostable.com @becompostable CompostNow compostnow.org, @compostnow The Garden Room and Atlas thegardenroomatlanta.com @thegardenroomatlanta atlasrestaurant.com @atlasbuckhead Georgia Restaurant Association garestaurants.org @garestaurantassociation

C OVE R ST ORY

How to make small changes that have a big impact STORY:

Amy Meadows

ou’ve already taken steps to go green in your everyday life. You recycle. You drink out of reusable water bottles. You bring your own shopping bags to the grocery store. But have you considered how those efforts can translate to your personal care routine? There are many simple decisions that not only are healthier for you, but also better for the environment. Here’s what some area experts have to say about making your beauty routine greener.

By a Hair Taking a top-down approach is a great way to begin. According to Lisa Saul, president of holistic hair salon EcoColors in Piedmont Heights, “An environmentally friendly hair care routine is as simple as choosing products that have more natural ingredients.” Saul recommends looking for products with ingredients that are easy to pronounce and avoiding such listings as polyethylene glycol (a silicone that aids in frizz control), triclosan (a preservative that reduces bacterial contamination) and phthalates (a gelling agent used in some shampoos, conditioners and mousses). These chemicals can

GO GREEN WITH YOUR

BEAUTY ROUTINE enter the body through the skin and also are released into the environment as they are washed out of the hair. It’s also important to avoid aerosols for styling. When it comes to hair color, a non-toxic salon such as EcoColors uses products that are cruelty-free, formaldehyde-free, plant-based and less plastic-based, making the process both cleaner and safer.

Nailed It “Your hands are like the smile of your body: Everyone notices them,” says Iaya Xiong, owner of Èlan Organic Nail Boutique, located in North Buckhead. There’s nothing like a good manicure to dress up those hands throughout the year. However, while spectacular nail designs are growing in popularity, there are considerations to keep in mind as you plan your next salon visit. As Xiong notes, acrylic nail extensions can pose issues, particularly when it comes to the heavy-duty chemicals used to apply them. Gel extensions can be a better option; they don’t damage the nail bed when applied correctly, and you’re not exposed to the chemicals as-

sociated with acrylics. She adds that it’s nice to simply give your nails a break and choose to have a basic manicure. At Èlan, the staff uses natural ingredients such as lemons for cleansing and brightening, and lavender to relax and relieve stress. For a healthier experience, she recommends opting for nail polishes that are vegan or 9-Free (made without nine toxic ingredients such as dibutyl phthalate, formaldehyde and toluene).

Under Your Skin Washing your face and moisturizing are a must, and there are excellent green skin care options. Sally Larsen, founder of Buckhead-based organic skin care company Sally B’s Skin Yummies, suggests finding products that are free of not only parabens (artificial preservatives), but also phthalates, which often are used as a fragrance stabilizer. “That lip balm scented like blueberries? It takes hundreds of chemicals to create that blueberry scent,” Larsen says. However, companies do not have to specifically denote the presence of phthalates on their labels, so look for products that list essential oils

or naturally derived scents. Additionally, while retinol is used in many serums and moisturizers, it can be a hormone disruptor. Natural alternatives promote cell turnover in the same way, such as moth bean extract or cacay oil. Take heart: You also don’t have to change all of your products at once. “As you run out of facial cleanser or a moisturizer, look at the alternatives,” she says. “You have to learn to be your own expert in terms of looking at labels.” Finally, look for products that boast a verified seal from the Environmental Working Group, a nonprofit organization that specializes in research and advocacy regarding chemicals in everyday items. From cosmetics to lotions and fragrances, you’ll have a heads up on what’s what in your products. n

EcoColors – A Holistic Hair Salon ecocolorssalon.com @ecocolorsalon Èlan Organic Nail Boutique elanorganicbeauty.com @elanorganicnailboutique Sally B’s Skin Yummies sallybskinyummies.com @sallybskinyummies

January/February 2022 | Simply Buckhead

COVE R S T ORY

Recycling’s

CLEAN SWEEP

Care and attention can keep a wide range of waste out of the landfill STORY:

Michael Jacobs

ou’ve finished your New Year’s celebrations when you face a perennial question: Can I recycle these glass bottles? Yes, but how depends on where you live. In the City of Atlanta, glass goes in the curbside recycling cart with other party refuse such as aluminum cans, cardboard boxes, paper cups and plastic bottles. But DeKalb County customers in Dunwoody and Brookhaven and city customers in Chamblee have to haul their glass to a county drop-off site. Sandy Springs residents, who hire private companies for trash and recyclable collection, have to bring glass to Keep North Fulton Beautiful’s recycling center. Cost and contamination are key factors in the mix of glass rules. The market value of recycled materials in general has fallen, especially since China stopped importing them in 2018. Single-stream curbside recycling—putting all recyclables in one container outside your home—has increased participation by making recycling easier. But it also requires a collection facility to separate paper from plastic and aluminum from glass. Broken glass can damage machinery or injure workers during that processing. Bits of glass can stick in paper and plastic and contaminate them so that it’s not worth recycling them. Drop-off centers solve the problem by keeping glass separate, and as long as the glass is clean and dry, it won’t go to the landfill. As recently as 2016, Atlanta sent glass from its curbside recycling to the landfill, but Georgia manufacturers now import recycled glass from other states to meet their needs

in producing $1.1 billion worth of bottles and fiberglass a year, according to Georgia Recycles. While you’re cleaning up from that holiday party, don’t throw away the Styrofoam and plastic cups and utensils if you live in Atlanta or Sandy Springs. Fulton County has joined Cobb, Gwinnett, Cherokee and Forsyth in the Hefty EnergyBag program that takes hard-to-recycle plastics and turns them into a liquid used to make new plastics. Purchase special orange Hefty bags at Kroger and fill them with plastic wrap, bubble wrap, plastic straws and a wide range of plastic food packaging without foil lining. Everything must be clean and dry. Outside the City of Atlanta, place the tied-up orange bags in your curbside recycling container; inside the city,

January/February 2022 | Simply Buckhead

south of Downtown. take the bag to Live Thrive’s Center for Hard to Recycle Materials, known as CHaRM. Residents of Atlanta still can toss unbagged plastic cups, plastic bottles with Nos. 1 to 5 and 7 on the bottom and many other plastic containers into the curbside cart. Keep the caps on the cleaned, dried bottles. CHaRM recycles anything you would put in your curbside cart, plus items ranging from cooking oil and non-food-grade glass to tires, electronics, textiles and even cigarette butts, some for free. You can also take many of those items to Atlanta Recycles Day on the third Saturday of every month at Greenbriar Mall. The Sandy Springs recycling center also accepts an expanded list of materials, though not as broad as CHaRM’s list, and only Sandy Springs

residents may drop off some items, including certain appliances and computer accessories. Just be careful to clean and dry anything that once contained food or liquid to avoid the contamination that can ruin a load of recyclables. About a quarter of items people try to recycle wind up in landfills because of contamination, according to recycling company Rubicon. Pizza boxes are a classic example. Although they’re cardboard, the grease that soaks into them makes them unrecyclable. Pizza boxes and other contaminated paper products, such as napkins and paper towels, can join food waste in being composted at municipal drop sites such as CHaRM or through a program like the one run by CompostNow that exchanges compost bins at your doorstep weekly. n

Atlanta recycling atlantaga.gov/recycling @atlpublicworks Chamblee recycling chambleega.com/263/ recycling CHaRM livethrive.org/charm @livethriveatl CompostNow compostnow.org @compostnow DeKalb County recycling dekalbcountyga.gov/ sanitation/residential-singlestream-recycling-program Earth911 earth911.com @earth911 Georgia Recycles georgiarecycles.org @garecycles Keep North Fulton Beautiful keepnorthfultonbeautiful.org @keepnorthfultonbeautiful

It looks at the specifications of various products and what they’re made of. In addition, we consider the life cycle of the product, as well as the manufacturing process and waste products. We are looking for healthy and innovative products that are sustainable. If we have better health, the planet has better health. Can health-friendly and ecosensitive products still be stylish?

Absolutely. Our course materials give many examples of natural and sustainable products that are both healthy for humans and the planet while also being beautiful. For example, numerous nontoxic paints, stains and adhesives are on the market today, without limitation of color range or performance. And naturally dyed fabrics come in a stunning range of colors. What are some other lifestyle changes we can make to ensure a healthier living environment?

The Prescription for a Healthy Home Jillian Pritchard Cooke shares ways we can avoid letting our homes make us sick STORY:

“Y

Jill Becker PHOTO: Joann Vitelli

our body can only take so much,” says Jillian Pritchard Cooke, founder of a Buckhead-based company called Wellness Within Your Walls. Cooke speaks from personal experience, as a rare tissue cancer diagnosis she received was found to have been caused by environmental factors, including prolonged exposure to toxicants during the construction and furnishing of dozens of homes during her 40-plus years as an interior designer. This revelation led her to create WWYW, an informational resource group offering guidance to homebuilders and building product manufacturers regarding the dangerous chemicals and other substances commonly found in our homes. “Creating nontoxic, sustainable living environments is vital because our homes impact our health,” says Cooke, who has now been free of cancer for more than 15 years.

What does WWYW do?

Through our four-course educational series, we educate design and building industry professionals and homeowners/buyers about the presence and impact of toxins in our homes, as well as strategies to eliminate them. In addition, we work with architects, builders and inspectors on the certification of homes, both new and existing. What are some of these toxins we’re living with?

Two hidden toxins commonly found in our homes are formaldehyde, which is used to increase performance and decrease drying time in a number of products, and the synthetic fragrances found in sprays, detergents, soaps and candles. As a population, we believe if something is in the store that it’s safe, but that’s not true.

What are some of the health issues stemming from repeated exposure?

The World Health Organization has warned for more than a decade that chronic, noncommunicable diseases caused by environmental factors are rapidly increasing. Common chronic conditions include cardiovascular disease, cancer, diabetes, obesity, neurocognitive disorders and immune dysfunction. . Have people’s attitudes changed towards their wellness in relation to their living and working spaces, since both spaces are often in the same place these days?

I think air has certainly become top of mind because of the pandemic. Americans already spend 90% of their time indoors, and indoor air can be significantly more polluted and harmful than outdoor air. Even the effects of dust mites, pollen and pet dander multiply during a pandemic since office environments are typically cleaned more frequently than our homes. How does WWYW’s product certification process work?

1. Make air quality a priority. Assess your ventilation system (including humidification/dehumidification needs), making sure it’s appropriate for your home’s needs. Choose a filter designed to purify specific particulates found in your home, generally MERV 13 or higher. And change your filters as recommended. 2. Check your water source. Environmental Working Group has an easyto-use zip code system (ewg.org/ tapwater) for municipal water sources across the country. Determine a filtration system, whether whole-home, at the tap or a pitcher, that addresses the listed contaminants. 3. Avoid fabrics treated with substances that make them wrinklefree, stain-resistant, fire-resistant and water-resistant. These substances are typically chemicals that off-gas and can cause skin irritation. 4. The Japanese tradition of removing your shoes in the house lessens the number of toxins you track in. Can you share a WWYW success story?

I worked on a project in Luling, Louisiana, near New Orleans, that was downstream of some huge factories. The owner put in a water filtration system, and of the 27 chemicals that had been found in his water, he was able to mitigate 26 of them. n Wellness Within Your Walls wellnesswithinyourwalls.com @wellnesswithinyourwalls

January/February 2022 | Simply Buckhead

COVE R S T ORY

Below: This Daikin variablerefrigerantvolume compressor heats and cools a 5,000-squarefoot Dunwoody Prairie house.

Right: For an energy-efficient retrofit, Eco Custom Homes installed German triple-pane windows. Below: Builder Jeffrey Dinkle says fireplaces don’t fit with a high-performance home.

Above: Eco Custom Homes installed reclaimed 100-year-old oak flooring for a renovation in the Buckhead area.

Tighten Up and Build Right A high-performance house seals in energy savings, healthy air and comfort STORY:

Michael Jacobs

uilding a greener house doesn’t have to break the bank. A tight-fitting, well-insulated home carefully positioned to prevent overheating by the sun doesn’t cost much more than standard construction, says Jeffrey Dinkle, founder and owner of Eco Custom Homes in Sandy Springs. “Sustainable, tight construction is a better way to build,” says Dinkle, who has spent two decades improving “high-performance” houses that are airtight and energy-efficient with healthy air. “A leaky house is one that is prone to deterioration, mold, not very good energy efficiency, pollen and bugs.” Dinkle suggests including long roof overhangs to shield the house; 2-by-6-inch beams for exterior walls and 2-by-10s for roof rafters; casement windows, triple-pane if possible; and a high-efficiency heating/ ventilation/air-conditioning system with a stand-alone humidification system or energy recovery ventilator air exchange system. He recommends Daikin variable-refrigerantvolume or Mitsubishi variablerefrigerant-flow HVAC units. A smoke blower door test can check for the tightness of the construction before the drywall goes up so any leaks can be fixed, Dinkle says. Solar panels are essential for net-

zero carbon emissions, he says, but if the homeowner doesn’t want to add the expense during construction, Eco Custom Homes makes the house solar-ready, with an area wired for panel installation. A high-end HVAC system, the best windows and solar panels could boost construction costs 10%, Dinkle says. He notes that energy savings should pay for the HVAC and windows within seven or eight years, while the payoff for going solar takes about 10 years. Exclude fireplaces, which are bad for the exterior and interior air, he says, and maybe skip the faddish $15,000 battery storage system in favor of a $9,000 generator. Interior designers should be involved from the start of the project to ensure a healthy living space, says designer Radhika Vydianathan, owner of Kalaa Chakra Interiors in Dunwoody. Healthy choices include water-based or beeswax stains and paints with low or no volatile organic compounds that can emit dangerous chemicals. Vydianathan suggests natural fabrics for curtains and furniture, and sheep’s wool for insulation, although Dinkle says spray foam’s energy savings makes it a good choice. Furniture should be built with wood certified by the Sustainable Furnishings Council and foam that is soy-based or bears the CertiPUR-US seal. Vydianathan says too many of her colleagues don’t think about the

January/February 2022 | Simply Buckhead

EcoManor at 15

Radhika Vydianathan says supply chain issues have helped clients recognize the value of reconditioning furniture instead of dumping items and waiting for new pieces from overseas.

health of a home. She took a daylong course on healthy, sustainable design and earned the certification of Buckhead-based Wellness Within Your Walls, which aims to prevent trapping toxins within an airtight house. WWYW founder Jillian Pritchard Cooke’s suggestions for air quality include area rugs instead of carpeting, electric ranges instead of gas, air fryers over deep oil fryers and blinds over curtains draping to the floor. A positive effect of the supplychain disruptions of the past two years, Vydianathan says, is that clients are open to repurposing wellmade furniture. Instead of waiting nine months for a new chair from overseas, they can have an old chair reupholstered and restuffed by a local artisan in nine weeks for about

Green homebuilding came to Buckhead on a grand scale in 2007 with the completion of EcoManor, the first home in the Southeast to receive the U.S. Green Building Council’s Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design Gold certification. The Tudor-style mansion with more than 5,000 square feet of living space remains the home of Laura Turner Seydel and husband Rutherford. Architect Bill Harrison and interior designer Jillian Pritchard Cooke designed the $1.5 million house and demonstrated that luxury finishes and classic looks could coexist with features that dramatically reduce energy costs, reuse water for landscaping and create healthier interior air.

the same cost and save time, reduce transportation-related emissions and keep furniture out of landfills. “Make a conscious effort to make these small changes,” Vydianathan says. Just as people exercise and eat right for their physical well-being, “everyone should take this responsibility to reflect that in your home.” n Eco Custom Homes ecocustomhomes.com @ecocustomhomesga Kalaa Chakra Interiors kcidesign.net, @kcidesign

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January/February 2022 | Simply Buckhead

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January/February 2022 | Simply Buckhead

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Shrimp and Scallop Polenta is a standout on The Woodall's brunch menu.

RESTAURANT REVIEW Westside Wonder P68

Photo: Monica Farber

The Woodall is a top spot for fresh Georgia ingredients in eclectic dishes.

January/February 2022 | Simply Buckhead

REVIEW

WESTSIDE WONDER The Woodall gives globally inspired dishes and drinks local flavor STORY:

Tempura eggplant fries present a delightful tender/crisp contrast.

Hope S. Philbrick PHOTOS: Sara Hanna

”S

ee you next week,” our server says with a smile while grabbing the signed receipt. We’re not established regulars at The Woodall in Westside Village; this was our first visit. But return we did, a few days later with eager anticipation for brunch. And then for dinner a few days after that. Sure, I was researching, but even after this story is published you may see my husband and me occupying a booth on any given day. There are plenty of reasons to return again and again. For starters, consider the gougères. These bite-sized, delicate puffs of gooey gruyère and smoked gouda sprinkled with parmesan are worth a trip alone. Though they’re meant to share, I would understand if you hoard a pile for yourself. Pair them with a creative cocktail or glass of wine for a preview of what heaven should taste like. The lump crab beignets are equally satisfying. Each decadent sphere is a rewarding pop of savory sweet crab tinged with Old Bay seasoning. Wasabi honey mustard adds zing. The Woodall opened in February 2021, the latest concept by Chef John Metz, CEO

Crisp-skinned chicken paillard swims in a sauce that warrants plate-licking.

January/February 2022 | Simply Buckhead

and co-founder of Sterling Hospitality, which owns Marlow’s Tavern. Whether you prefer a table, booth or high-top, there’s a seat to suit in the comfortable dining room and outdoor patio. Whitewashed brick, shiny metal, warm woods, brown leather and modern light fixtures warm up the converted warehouse while a mural of eagle talons clasping a silver spoon adds personality. “My goal with the menu is for it to be very eclectic and internationally inspired, but using all the great freshness of Georgia ingredients,” says Metz. The Sicilian calamari and rock shrimp are elegantly battered and fried then served scattered across a plate among tempura lemon slices and bits of red pepper and pepperoncini with marinara sauce for dipping. Scoop the different elements into your mouth all at once to experience a harmonious concert of textures and flavors from tart to salty, spicy to sweet. For an entrée that impresses like a sophisticated yet cheap date, order the open-faced tenderloin sandwich. Thin slices of marinated grilled beef are piled atop grilled focaccia along with smoked gouda, kale pesto, onion confit and tomato. Each bite is packed with

upscale ingredients and preparations that surpass expectations of its $16 price tag. Chicken may be the most noteworthy thing on the menu for its mind-blowing, seemingly protein-defying juiciness, thanks to sous vide cooking in advance. Fried and sandwiched between a biscuit at brunch or brioche bun at dinner or seared for crispskinned paillard paired with tender heirloom carrots, fingerling potatoes and green beans, all swimming in a chicken glacé so good it’s hard not to lick the plate: In whatever final form you order it, chicken at The Woodall is consistently tender, succulent and crave-worthy.

Below: The dining room is anchored by a welcoming open bar.

Above: Sea scallops are seared to perfection and served with seasonal risotto. Above: Lump crab beignets are decadent savory bites worth the calorie splurge. Right: Linger over wellbalanced cocktails like the Hibiscus Paloma and What's In Fashion.

Monica Farber

Below: Tender Bailey's butter cake is packed with rich flavors you won't want to miss.

The Woodall is the latest concept opened by Chef John Metz (Marlow's Tavern). If your heart’s set on ordering the Durham’s Chicken Biscuit at brunch, arrive early since quantities are limited. But if you happen to miss out on that tender fried chicken tucked inside a feathery soft buttermilk biscuit—an homage to Metz’ favorite dish at South Carolina’s Durham’s Convenience Mart—consider The Woodall’s creative spin on two breakfast classics. The jumbo lump crab cake Benedict tops a toasted English muffin with a fried crab cake, sautéed spinach, overeasy fried egg (rather than the traditional poached) and creamed corn béarnaise (in lieu of hollandaise). Sweet crab and corn flavors dominate the overall combo like loving parents. Shrimp and scallop polenta, a twist on shrimp and grits, tops smoked gouda polenta with perfectlycooked seafood plus spinach, tomato, bacon, roast shallot and a pan sauce so buttery you won’t want to miss a drop. For dessert, don’t miss the Bailey’s

butter cake. Packed with rich notes of browned butter, vanilla and bruléed sugar, the tender cake is crowned with whipped cream and strawberries, which it could do without, and wading in a puddle of Bailey’s sauce so scrumptious you may start humming an Irish tune. Servers are attentive without hovering, so you can enjoy conversation with your dining companions. The relaxed mood may inspire you to linger over a cocktail. Consider well-balanced concoctions such as the Southern Charmer (bourbon, peach nectar, ginger, lemon and lavender bitters) and the Boardroom Rita (tequila, Fresno peppers, clementine orange, Benedictine, maraschino, agave and lime). The menu changes seasonally, though popular items will remain. “I have a habit of changing stuff I really love,” says Metz. “The goal is to bring in fresh, great flavors every season.” Sounds like a tasty invitation to return. n

THE WOODALL 404.343.4424 thewoodallwestside.com, @thewoodallatl Prices: (dinner) small plates: $10-15; salads: $9-12; sandwiches: $14-17; mains: $14-43; sides: $6; desserts: $9-10. (brunch) small plates: $9-14; sandwiches: $11.5-17; mains: $13-29; sides: $5. Recommended: Southern Charmer, gougères, lump crab beignets, chicken paillard, tempura eggplant fries, Durham’s chicken biscuit, Bailey’s butter cake. Bottom line: A contemporary eatery that delivers high-quality, globally-inspired food, drinks and service at competitive prices in a relaxed environment.

January/February 2022 | Simply Buckhead

D R I NKS

Left: Aziza's David Chapman adds a rich layer to the Manhattanlike Applewood with Amaro Abano. Right: Amaro Montenegro can take classic drinks to new heights, as it does in Storico Vino's riff on a Sazerac.

Brandon Amato

Jose Pereiro

Below: Aria's King of Hearts proves whiskey and amaro are perfect companions.

AMORE FOR AMARO BITTER AND BALANCED BEFORE OR AFTER A MEAL, OR BETTER YET IN A COCKTAIL

maro means “bitter” in Italian. It refers to a number of bitter herbal liqueurs. With hundreds of years of tradition, the category is a place where producers can express themselves through the manifestation of the unique botanicals of their regions. Amaros can range from floral and lightly bittersweet to astringently bitter. For the most part, dark and densely spiced amaro is served neat as an after-dinner digestif. Those labeled “aperitivo” tend to be lighter in body, low in alcohol and ideal, as their Latin-derived name defines, to “open up” one’s appetite before a meal. Both categories can easily be lengthened with club soda or sparkling wine for a spritz-type beverage. In a bartender’s arsenal, amari are a go-to ingredient, adding complexity and spice that are especially comforting in cold weather months. Most people are familiar with Campari, which lends an herbal, bitter root flavor to a Negroni, or Aperol’s vibrant orange color and bittersweet flavor in an Aperol Spritz. But there are so many more bottles to explore. Leave it to Italian hotspot Storico Vino to swap an Italian amaro in a riff on a Sazerac. Amaro Montenegro dates from 1885 and is

made from a secret blend of 40 botanicals from the four corners of the world. It’s soft and pleasant with Mediterranean coriander, nutmeg, cinnamon, oregano, cloves and both bitter and sweet orange peel. It falls right into the comfort zone of the wine bar’s stirred Andiamo Banana, which includes Bulleit bourbon, Cognac, Montenegro and Crème de Banana. Meletti is a rich, aromatic, almost spicy amaro that is an easygoing swap in a cocktail. At their new location at Westside’s The Works, Fox Bros Bar-B-Q puts the bittersweet profile next to bourbon, a little Hogshead Whiskey and OldFashioned Bitters. Swapping amaro for sweet vermouth makes a classic cocktail feel more sophisticated, and the hint of Hogshead’s Scotch-like smoke complements a menu of barbecued meats. Created in 1952, the recipe for Luxardo’s Amaro Abano includes an infusion of cardamom, cinnamon, cinchona, bitter orange peel and condurango, an herb often used in medicinal concoctions. It’s dark amber in color and has a warm, bitter citrus flavor. At Aziza, bar manager David Chapman includes it in his Manhattan-like Applewood. He stirs together spiced rye and Pommeau de Normandie, a French

January/February 2022 | Simply Buckhead

STORY:

Angela Hansberger

apple-based aperitif, and adds layers with Oloroso sherry and Amaro Abano. Sipped by itself, Cardamaro has the harmonious balance of sweet and bitter made with wild herbs such as artichoke leaves, cloves, cardoons, licorice root, marjoram and the aromatic properties of thistle. Find it in Atlas’ Holy Smokes, mixed with specially barreled bourbon and Aztec chocolate bitters. An addition of Benedictine enhances the texture and body with its coppery hue and notes of gingerbread and saffron. Ecco Buckhead’s Cloak & Dagger is made with mezcal, rum, banana liqueur and Cynar (pronounced CHEE-nar). The strange blend of ingredients coalesces into a cocktail that sips like a deep, bold and fruity mezcal old fashioned with unconventional balance. The sweetness of banana liqueur balances the smokiness of mezcal. Cynar is the backbone of the drink, tempering sweetness with vegetal notes. The Italian bitter aperitif, created in 1948, is made from the artichoke leaves and a secret infusion of 13 botanicals. With warming spices and herbaceous botanicals, a sip of amaro as an aperitif or digestif or in a cocktail can feel like a lifesaver on a cold winter day. n

DETAILS Atlas 404.600.6471 atlasrestaurant.com @atlasbuckhead Aria 404.233.7673 aria-atl.com @ariaatlanta Aziza 404.968.9437 aziza-restaurant.com @azizarestaurant Ecco Buckhead 404.347.9558 ecco-atlanta.com @eccobuckhead Fox Bros Bar-B-Q at The Works 770.755.5099 foxbrosbbq.com @foxbrosbarbq Storico Vino 404.806.0050 storico.com @storicovino

Photo by Zhong Lin

ROBERT WUN

1600 Peachtree St. NW Atlanta scadfash.org

Culinary News & Notes

BY:

Claire Ruhlin

Treebird branding

FOODIE JOURNAL

Pumpkin-pie-spiced winter squash gelato, served here in a profiterole. Heidi Harris

WINTER From left: Starbright Wine Founder and CEO Rachel Katz. The Lil Fizz by No Fine Print, available through Starbright Wine.

Love at First Sip

Starbright Wine founder shares her wine-shopping tips for Valentine’s Day and beyond

ne-on-one support meets speedy, local delivery (or pickup) with Starbright Wine, which launched in Atlanta in fall 2021. Customers can choose wines online or chat with Starbright’s certified experts to build a taste profile. If you live within Atlanta’s city limits, your order can be delivered in as little as two hours. Here, we spoke with Founder and CEO Rachel Katz about choosing the perfect wines for Valentine’s Day. What advice do you have for choosing wine suited to someone’s tastes?

The biggest pattern I see with wine buying is either going with what looks the most approachable (buying by the label) or going for a bottle based solely on the grape you’re most familiar with. What we love about our personalized one-on-one shopping support is we are able to dig into what the customer likes and suggest bottles they may not otherwise have chosen. The biggest misconception

FOOD NEWS

is that if you like one Pinot Noir, for example, you’ll like all Pinot Noir. While there are common flavors and tasting notes that connect varietals, so much can vary based on where the wine is grown, the weather, soil, practices, fermentation and aging. We encourage customers to shop by taste preferences first. What are the top three wines you’d recommend for Valentine’s day?

So many options! For a little bit of a romantic splurge, I love the Clos de Betz Bordeaux Blend from the Betz Family. It’s a sexy wine with ripe, rich berries, chocolate and a hint of nutty vanilla. Decant it to let the air open it up and sip on it all night. The Callie from Une Femme wines is always a good idea. You can buy a bottle for $32, or individual pony bottles for $11. It’s dry and crisp with berries and a toasty caramel finish. Best of all, proceeds from every purchase go to Dress for Success. Lastly, not everyone is in the mood for red wine or bubbles, and

n Dunwoody’s first rooftop bar, Bar Peri, is now open at the AC Hotel Atlanta Perimeter. Stop by for skyline views and a menu of tapas and bites (think: a charcuterie board and flatbreads), plus craft cocktails, beers and boutique wines. barperi.com

January/February 2022 | Simply Buckhead

that to me is where this Roussanne comes in. The Lawrence Vineyard Roussanne from Latta Wines is a round and smooth white wine, a perfect side-step for an unoaked Chardonnay drinker (or anyone really). It has balanced acidity and salinity, and citrus, floral notes. It’s a steal of a wine that drinks above its pay grade ($35) with beautiful intensity and drinkability. Do you offer gifting and tasting options?

We take the heavy lifting away from gifting, whether for friends and family or clients and employees. We can curate wine gift sets, wrap them up and get them to where they need to go without your lifting a finger. We also do events and tastings if you’re looking for something fun and different to do with your loved ones, partner or friends. n Starbright Wine starbrightwine.com @starbrightwine

n Florida-based meal service Fitlife Foods is now open in Buckhead’s Tuxedo Festival plaza, offering chef-prepared meals and snacks for pickup. Choose from pre-portioned small, medium and large sizes, labeled with nutritional information and ingredients.

n Coastal restaurant Carmel is set to open in Buckhead Village in the second half of this year. Helmed by Oliva Restaurant Group, the team behind Rina, Aziza, Falafel Nation and Bellina Alimentari, the restaurant will serve lunch, dinner and weekend brunch.

eatfitlifefoods.com

olivarestaurants.com

BITES Bacchanalia’s Chef Anne Quatrano shares her recipe for pumpkin-pie-spiced winter squash gelato Who says you can’t enjoy frozen treats in winter? Not us—and certainly not Chef Anne Quatrano, whose pumpkin-pie-spiced winter squash gelato is available on the menu at Bacchanalia this winter. 2 tsp salt 3 1/2 tbsp dextrose 1/3 cup + 1 tbsp nonfat dry milk 1 cup sugar 1 cup heavy cream 6 cups milk 1 tsp vanilla 1 tsp pumpkin spice 2 cup roasted squash purée (recipe below) In a saucepan, add all the dry ingredients, including the spices. Mix well with a whisk. Stir in the milk and heavy cream. Bring to a boil and let simmer on low heat for 10–15 minutes. Add the squash purée and vanilla. Stir until incorporated. Let sit for 5 minutes then strain through a fine sieve. Cool completely. Freeze according to your ice cream machine manufacturer's instructions. FOR THE PURÉE

1/2 butternut or similar winter squash (seeds removed) 1/4 cup brown sugar 3 tbsp sugar 4 oz butter 1 tsp salt Roast squash at 350°F for 45 minutes to 1 hour until soft. Scoop out flesh and purée in a food processor with brown sugar, sugar, butter and salt. Bacchanalia 404.365.0410 starprovisions.com/bacchanalia @starprovisions

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404-458-0065 Securities offered through Triad Advisors, LLC. Member FINRA/SIPC. Advisory services offered through Financial Innovations, LLC. Financial Innovations, LLC is not affiliated with Triad Advisors, LLC.

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January/February 2022 | Simply Buckhead

TA S T E M AKE R FUN FACT Abes once dined with basketball legend Michael Jordan at The Capital Grille in Charlotte, N.C., 10 years ago, after meeting at nowdefunct Twist in Atlanta.

will launch, rounding out the options. But Abes stresses that The Village is more than a collection of restaurants. He hopes the courtyard will serve as a community meeting space, a place to listen to live music, watch a ball game on the big screen or gather for festivals. “These spaces were all retail; we’re converting them to a place with heart,” he says. We spoke to him to learn more about his work and his personal life. Aside from The Village Dunwoody, what does DASH do? We have 17 clients right now. We’ve worked with Slutty Vegan, Ray’s on the River and True Story Brands (Yebo, Biltong Bar). We work on everything from startups and marketing to backoffice systems and operational issues. What else are you working on? I’m opening a bistro called The Usual with Nick Leahy (owner of Nick’s Westside) in Arya on Peachtree. Nick used to own Saltyard nearby, so it’s going back to the neighborhood for him.

The Duke of

DUNWOODY

DASH Hospitality’s David Abes strives to make The Village Dunwoody the heart of the community STORY:

Carly Cooper

avid Abes’ resume speaks for itself. Having worked as director of operations at Here To Serve Restaurants, regional director of operations at LDV Hospitality and COO at Buckhead Life Restaurant Group, he knows a thing or two about managing restaurants. Launching his own company, DASH Hospitality Group, in 2016, was a natural next step. Now Abes is taking his

business even closer to home with the creation of The Village Dunwoody, a communal entertainment district with four restaurants and a bar surrounding a 30,000-square-foot central courtyard in his hometown. “I’ve been working on this for almost three years now,” he says. “I want it to be a central meeting spot for Dunwoody, a place my wife and I can hang out with our friends.” Opening in three phases, the Village debuted recently with Bar(n), a rustic wine-and-whiskey bar serving

January/February 2022 | Simply Buckhead

charcuterie and small plates. This spring, barbecue spot Morty’s Meat & Supply, named for Abes’ grandfather, and casual Tex-Mex restaurant Cuco’s Cantina will open with a “Homework Happy Hour” discounting tacos and other snacks to entice high schoolers to come by from 4 to 5 p.m. (Those hungry to try the eats before the brick-and-mortar opens can stop by the shared food truck Thursdays through Sundays.) In the fall, Mediterranean eatery Yoffi and beachy seafood restaurant Message in a Bottle

Your wife owns Batter Cookie Dough Counter. Are your children interested in the hospitality industry as well? My daughter is 24. She’s finishing her doctorate in occupational therapy in South Carolina. My son is 21. He’s a senior at the University of Maryland studying marketing communications. He interned at beverage wholesaler United Distributors and loved it. What do you do for fun? I love to travel. Just recently, my family went to Napa Valley; Margate, New Jersey; and 30-A on the panhandle of Florida. I still play basketball and golf once in a blue moon. What are your favorite Buckhead restaurants? Yebo is great at what they do. I like Tuk Tuk and Aria. Gerry Klaskala (owner of Aria) is a rockstar. n THE VILLAGE DUNWOODY 770-338-6992 thevillagedunwoody.com @thevillagedunwoody

Cherry Blossom Festival 2022

March 26 - 27 at Blackburn Park Get local with 40,000 of your best friends at Brookhaven's signature festival March 26th and 27th. Enjoy a weekend of music from your favorite bands, curated artist market, the best neighborhood food and drinks, activities for the kids, and more. Visit brookcherryfest.org for details.

January/February 2022 | Simply Buckhead

FEATURED RESTAURANTS A sampling of great eats in and around Buckhead BY: Wendell Brock, Rebecca Cha, Jennifer Bradley Franklin, Angela Hansberger, Hope S. Philbrick

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

BABYLON CAFÉ When Iraqi native Saad Marwad and his wife, Kelly Rafia, opened Babylon Café in 2014, the city’s foodie community started to buzz about the couple’s fresh, flavorful repertoire of Middle Eastern classics, from falafel and hummus to kebabs and baklava. While the starters are quite good—try the fattoush salad, the lentil soup and the eggplant badenjan—the earthy, long-simmered stews

PHOTOS:

Sara Hanna, Joann Vitelli

are unlike anything else in town. We like the herb-based qurma sabzi with super-tender lamb shank and the bamia (okra and tomatoes) with oxtail. Don’t leave without a sip of the anise-flavored aperitif called arak and a bite of kanafeh, a sweet made of shredded phyllo, housemade sweet cheese, rose- and orange-water syrup and pistachios. Appetizers and sides: $2-$7 Entrees: $12-$20 babyloncafeatl.com

BIG SKY BUCKHEAD The laid-back cattle ranch decor in this West Village hotspot is the perfect foil for top-notch Tex-Mex-meets-Deep-South eats. Specialty cocktails served up by fresh-faced mixologists combined with events such as Wednesday trivia nights, game-day viewing parties and weekend brunches with all-you-can-drink mimosas make Big Sky Buckhead a favorite urban escape. Best-in-class dishes such as the Big Sky Nachos, Goose Island IPA wings, Original Burger and Buffalo Chicken Sandwich are good enough to brand this place in your memory forever. Good to know: Big Sky is a cashless establishment, so don’t forget your alt-currency. Also, free on-site parking spots are limited, so consider carpooling or ridesharing. Starters: $4-$12 Salads, sandwiches and tacos: $11-$13 Entrees: $15-$19 Brunch items: $12-$15 bigskybuckhead.com

Ecco's interpretation of classic scampi includes perfectly al dente bucatini, Georgia shrimp and Sapelo Island clams.

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

DAS BBQ

Say hello to some of Westside's finest brisket, Brunswick stew and barbeque ribs, from DAS BBQ.

January/February 2022 | Simply Buckhead

In 2016, Stephen Franklin had a dream to make Georgia the most “inclusive, creative barbecue experience in the country,” and that’s just what he did at DAS BBQ. Whether it’s the rosy, smoke-ringed brisket, equally pink and juicy St. Louis-style ribs or the spicy, smoked chicken wings, every bony bite is a testament to Franklin’s focus on the art and science of smoked meats. Bring the whole family and don’t pass up housemade sides of decadent cream corn, mac ’n’ cheese and stick-to-your-ribs Brunswick stew. Dig into white chocolate banana pudding after if you’re willing and able.

Meats (whole, half and sandwich): $7-$28, sausages $5/link Wings: $9/$18 for half dozen/dozen Side dishes (in regular, pint or quart): $3-$23 Desserts: $3-$5 dasbbq.com

ECCO BUCKHEAD Meals at Ecco in Buckhead have the elegance and spontaneity of a spin around the dance floor, thanks to the hyper-seasonal approach to the menu. The kitchen shines in creative interpretations of European cuisine with dishes such as Spanish octopus with Castelvetrano olives, grilled pork tenderloin with beet top risotto, and tortellini stuffed with butternut squash and mascarpone. Perennial favorites such as fried goat cheese with honey and cracked black pepper and the Allora flatbread (with its San Marzano tomato sauce, still bubbling mozzarella, hot sopressata and pepperoni) don’t fail to impress. Paired with expert service, a nicely curated wine list and an atmosphere that’s at once sleek and cozy, this Phipps Plaza-adjacent eatery warrants a visit. Bottom line: If you find something you crave, visit soon to get it before it’s gone. Small plates: $9-$18 Flatbreads: $15-$21 Pasta and mains: $19-$36 Sides: $7-$12 Desserts: $6-$9 ecco-atlanta.com

At KR Steakbar the olive oil cake with almond brittle and citrus cream is a knockout.

KR STEAKBAR Atlanta chef Kevin Rathbun’s only Buckhead restaurant feels customtailored for the community. A contemporary nocturnal cubbyhole where small plates rule, wine flows and the air bristles with excitement, the fashionable “steakbar” concept finds Rathbun and chef de cuisine Jessica Gamble fusing two venerable concepts: meat and Italian. Here, nearly everything speaks with a perky Mediterranean lilt: amari-kissed cocktails, steak doused with espresso sauce, heavenly olive-oil cake with almond brittle and citrus cream. (Pastry chef Kylie Akiyama is terrific.) Hidden touches, like the speakeasy-style bar behind the kitchen and a patio that feels like a sunken garden, make us want to continue to explore this romantic spot. Antipasti: $6-$19 Pasta: $12-$16 Entrees: $18-$68 krsteakbar.com

LE COLONIAL Le Colonial’s website describes this upscale French-Vietnamese restaurant as “a luxurious escapist oasis,” and we’d agree. Amidst potted palms, starched white tablecloths and whirring vintage fans, glitzed-up diners are transported back to 1920s Vietnam and enjoy the culinary synthesis of the era. Favorite street fare such as banh mi thit nuong (chargrilled pork sandwich) and pho bo (beef noodle soup) get the white glove treatment with chef Richard Lee’s skillful way with Asian herbs and spices. Classic favorites of crispy panseared chicken dumplings, garlicky beef rice noodle rolls and curried green papaya salad will have you hankering for a one-way ticket to Saigon. Small plates: $12-$24 Soups and salads: $10-$18 Large plates: $14-$60 Sides: $4-$11 Desserts: $12-$14 lecolonialatlanta.com

NEWK’S EATERY This Mississippi-based chain has popped up in the Atlanta market, and though it looks like a fast-food joint, it tastes like homemade. Salads—from shrimp remoulade salad to a delicious steak-and-blue-cheese version to old-fashioned chicken salad—are a standout. At this casual, familyfriendly, crowd-pleasing spot you can also get sandwiches, pizzas and mac and cheese but, refreshingly, no burgers. We are pretty crazy about the sausage-and-pepperoni pie, with

its thin crust and warm and gooey toppings. And who can resist a crispy rice treat with chocolate and peanut butter? Not us. Salads, sandwiches and pizzas: $7-$11 newks.com

and an unforgettable peanut butter chocolate pie. Breakfast: $9.75-$14.75 Appetizers: $4.50-$17.50 Sandwiches, salads and veggie mains: $5.99-$17.50 Entrees: $13.25-$20.75 Desserts: $6.50-$8.75 rthomasdeluxegrill.net

Small plates: $4-$18 Mains: $14-$33 Sides: $4-$6 Desserts: $6-$9 southboundatl.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

changes about three times a year, but popular favorites remain, including the double-stack burger, Southern ramen, smoked short rib, Chamblee hot chicken and wild Georgia Shrimp.

SOUTHBOUND A “welcome to the neighborhood” vibe lingers throughout Southbound in Chamblee, whether you sit at the bar stocked with artisan spirits, on a comfortable chair in the main dining room or under an umbrellaed picnic table on the patio. Weathered wood, exposed bricks and dangling light bulbs give the space casual elegance. The menu presents Southern comfort food with some creative international flavors and influences. Variety means there’s something for just about any preference, diet, budget and hunger level. The menu Newk's shrimp po’boy is a healthy alternative to the traditional sandwich of fried shrimp.

TAKA SUSHI AND PASSION Chef Taka Moriuchi learned from perhaps the most famously finicky and cult-inspiring Japanese chef Atlanta has ever known: Sotohiro Kosugi, owner of Buckhead’s legendary (but now shuttered) Soto Japanese Restaurant. Today, Moriuchi holds court at his own sushi bar, where his impeccably fresh fish and hot and cold appetizers compare to the best Japanese food in town. The only difference: His prices won’t shipwreck your budget. Among our faves, the UPS roll is a delicious nod to the Atlanta-based Big Brown fleet, and the black cod and okra tempura are packages you’ll be happy to see arrive at your table. Appetizers: $6-$20 Nigiri: $2.50-$11 Sushi rolls: $4.50-$19.50 takasushiatlanta.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 2022 | Simply Buckhead

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Arrested Development

ROCK OUT TO SUPPORT ALZHEIMER’S

hat do Cracker, Arrested Development and Drivin N Cryin have in common other than their Georgia ties? The legendary bands will be headlining the 9th Annual Alzheimer’s Music Festival Feb. 4 at Buckhead Theatre. Additional performers at the extended play jam session, going from 6 p.m. to 1 a.m., include artists Gurufish and Zangaro, as well as Kurt Wheeler, Ralph Roddenbery and Donna Hopkins, Buckshot George, Morgan Rowe and DynaGroove. The electrifying evening of entertainment supports the Dementia Spotlight Foundation, with all proceeds directly benefitting families and individuals living with dementia-related disorders. “The Alzheimer’s Music Fest brings a special community of people to the forefront,” says festival founder Vince Zangaro, DSF’s director of development and special events. “Our team is comprised of all former care partners like myself. I was a care partner to my father for 14 years and realized families caring for a loved one with dementia needed a voice. What better way to project awareness than through music?” As guests dance the night away, they can refuel at the venue bar, with drinks and food

Bradford Jones

BANDING TOGETHER Gurufish

available for purchase. VIP ticket holders will enjoy a catered spread. Two lucky raffle winners will take home a guitar signed by the band members. Meanwhile, attendees can shop band merch, check out sponsor tables and design a custom festival T-shirt offered in different colors and styles. Grab some swag at the onsite DSF displays with koozies and bumper stickers to boost awareness, and sign-up to help caregivers through volunteer opportunities. Tickets are $60 general admission and $150 for VIP. Through its past music festivals, DSF has gifted more than 7,000 hours of free respite care to families living with dementia. Event entry requires proof of full vaccination or a negative COVID test taken within 48 hours, as well as masks (except while eating or drinking).

Kurt Wheeler

ALZHEIMER’S MUSIC FESTIVAL 404.843.2825 thebuckheadtheatreatl.com @buckheadtheatre

Zangaro

January/February 2022 | Simply Buckhead

E V E NTS

[ NEAR ]

Right: “Barack Obama” by Kehinde Wiley, oil on canvas, 2018. National Portrait Gallery, Smithsonian Institution. © 2018 Kehinde Wiley. Left: “Michelle LaVaughn Robinson Obama” by Amy Sherald, oil on linen, 2018. National Portrait Gallery, Smithsonian Institution.

BUZZ “DOWNTON ABBEY: THE EXHIBITION” Through Jan. 17 downtonexhibition.com @downtonabbey

Commanding View PRESIDENTIAL PORTRAITS DEBUT AT THE HIGH Don’t wait to book tickets to “The Obama Portraits Tour,” in town Jan. 14-March 20 at the High Museum of Art. Since the official portraits of former President Barack Obama and Michelle Obama were unveiled in February 2018 at the Smithsonian’s National Portrait Gallery, the art has sparked an unprecedented response due to both the history-making subjects and the groundbreaking artists. The exhibition at the High, the exclusive Southeastern venue for the five-city tour, offers the opportunity to examine each portrait up close and snap a photo, with a short video clip as part of the 10-minute gallery experience. Timed tickets ($16.50) are

required, and limited walk-up tickets are available daily. “The Obama portraits are popular in part for what they are not,” says Michael Rooks, the High’s Wieland Family curator of modern and contemporary art. “They are not images that embody the power of the state, but rather are images that convey the personal power of the subjects. The paintings capture not only the strength and confidence of the president and first lady, but also the intrinsic humanity we share with them.” In a dramatic departure from traditional portraiture, Kehinde Wiley’s painting of President Obama depicts

him seated in a chair with a lush green backdrop dotted with colorful blooms, including chrysanthemums, the official flower of Chicago. Amy Sherald’s portrait of the former first lady features her in a dazzling white gown with bold geometric patterns, against a light-blue background. Wiley and Sherald are the first African American artists to be commissioned by the National Portrait Gallery to create official portraits of a president or first lady. “THE OBAMA PORTRAITS TOUR” 404.733.4400 high.org, @highmuseumofart

[ FA M I LY ]

Super Fly ACROBATS AMAZE IN SANDY SPRINGS Decades before YouTube snagged a billion monthly users with uploaded content, The Peking Acrobats were captivating audiences around the globe with their smooth moves, blending artistic beauty and daredevil brawn in a thrill show like no other. Catch the performance troupe in person Feb. 26 at Byers Theatre at the Sandy Springs Performing Arts Center. From trick-cycling and precision tumbling to juggling and gymnastics, the 33rd annual tour packs a gravitydefying punch with amazing displays of contortion, flexibility and control that push the limits of human ability. Every second is beautifully choreographed with colorful costumes, special effects

Head to City Springs to witness the acrobatic feats of this renowned performance troupe.

and live music played on traditional Chinese instruments, honoring the country’s ancient art form. “All the acts in the show are spectacular, but I’d say fan favorites are the Bicycle Pagoda, the Tower of Chairs, the Pole Act and the Lion Dance,” says Cynthia Dike-Hughes, VP/COO of IAI Presentations, Inc., the event producer. The company set a world record set for the Human Chair Stack in 1999,

January/February 2022 | Simply Buckhead

Fans of the hit Brit historical drama can step into the Crawley family’s aristocratic world of wealth and privilege on a blockbuster tour that brings the fictional Yorkshire country estate of Downton Abbey to life. Staged at Sandy Springs Perimeter Pointe, the immersive walk-through features set recreations from the show’s six-season run, including the formal dining room, Lady Mary’s bedroom and Mrs. Patmore’s kitchen, as well as 50-plus original costumes, accessories and props, all capturing the grandeur of post-Edwardian England. Departing visitors need not be glum: The movie sequel, “Downton Abbey: A New Era,” hits theaters March 18. $39-$45.

MLK DAY CELEBRATION Jan. 16-17 atlantahistorycenter.com @atlhistcenter

Commemorate the life and legacy of Atlanta’s own Martin Luther King Jr. with a two-day celebration at the Atlanta History Center, featuring a variety of educational programming and free admission from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Blazing new trails toward equality through nonviolent activism, King led the American civil rights movement from 1955 until his assassination in 1968. Event registration is required.

“THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING EARNEST” Feb. 4-27 (select dates) stagedoortheatrega.org @dunwoodysdp

balancing six people atop six chairs 21 feet up in the air. A few members went on to make their Hollywood debut in the “Ocean’s Eleven” movie series. Tickets cost $30-$40. THE PEKING ACROBATS 770.206.2022 citysprings.com/events/peking-acrobats @citysprings

Enjoy some comic relief as Dunwoody’s Stage Door Players pull back the curtains on this Oscar Wilde farce about social expectations of the English upper class. Two London bachelors pretend to be a man called Earnest to win over two ladies, as proper Lady Bracknell runs interference. Performances are at 7 p.m. Fri.-Sun., 2:30 p.m. Sat.-Sun. $35 ($20 students, $15 youth).

January/February 2022 | Simply Buckhead

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Renee Hardman, Joanne Bryant, Danielle Britton, Whitney Ridgeway

Sara Mixon of Tootsies

John Boydston Photo

AN EVENING OF GIVING STORY:

Lisa Feld, Cindi Oakey, Denisa Parete

H.M. Cauley

F Ashley Foster, Kenyon McCutcheon

Larry Davis, Bart Edwards, Nancy Flaherty

ashion and food shared center stage during “An Evening of Giving: Fashion Showcase with Jonathan Simkhai” in November. Held at the Kimpton Sylvan Hotel in Buckhead, the event welcomed about 80 guests who raised almost $30,000 for the Atlanta Community Food Bank. The evening kicked off with a cocktail hour and hors d’oeuvres in the Willow Bar, followed by a fashion showcase in the Camellia Ballroom. Models sporting standout selections from Simkhai’s 2022 spring collection mingled among the tables. A virtual silent auction featured donations from the Loews Hotel Atlanta, the Atlanta Ballet, Nolram Bak, Exhale Spa, Spa Sydell, Integrative Aesthetics and Truffles Medispa. The next morning, sponsors from Tootsies, Charles Schwab, Atlanta Face & Body, the Mishon Williams Agency and Simply Buckhead met Simkhai at Tootsies for a light Proof of the Pudding breakfast and a few hours of shopping. The funds raised will provide about 120,000 meals for food insecure Atlantans.

Jenni Lubo, Carmen Henegan, Joanne Hayes Norman Lewis, Cindy Sprague

Nicole Postlewaite, Jennifer Dunaway, Lisa Boren Sivy

Cristyl Kimbrough, Mishon Williams

January/February 2022 | Simply Buckhead

CH AR I TABLE

Harold Cunliffe, Scott Saunders, Karen Cunliffe

Kim Evans Photos

ARTCAN BY JCM AND JIMMY CHOO STORY:

Jen Jagielo checks out the ELISH Miami mint green snakeskin print leather bag, donated by Jimmy Choo as a raffle prize.

Mike Flaherty, Dr. Alex Gross, Ray Bouley

Jarno Kettunen, Joanne Chesler-Gross, Pamela Monastra, Joanne Hayes

H.M. Cauley

he Veranda’s intimate space in Buckhead Village was bustling in early December when supporters of the JCM Foundation squeezed in for a cocktail party staged with the help of Jimmy Choo. The store, just a short stroll from the space, donated 10% of its sales for the week leading up to the event and provided the bubbly for the evening. About 50 guests sipped and socialized while perusing three original artworks for sale by Finnish fashion artist Jarno Kettunen. Attendees also pitched in to purchase raffle tickets for a Choo-donated snakeskin print leather handbag and T-shirts sporting a Kettunen abstract design. Chaired by Pamela Monastra and Grace Saunders, the event raised $17,000 to support pancreatic cancer research at Johns Hopkins and Emory universities.

Nancy Flaherty, Jarno Kettunen

Jabe Mabrey, Megan Shaw

Kirk Bouley, Giovanni Tortorici, Maureen Monastra-Vrh, Lou Siccurezza, Scott Saunders and Ray Bouley. (Top Row) Monica Lodge, Grace Saunders and Pamela Monastra

January/February 2022 | Simply Buckhead

S C EN E

FLOWER POWER Model Tati settles in before an elegant feast, prepared by Chef Freddy Money, at The Garden Room during our cover shoot. PHOTO: Sara

January/February 2022 | Simply Buckhead

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January/February 2022 | Simply Buckhead

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Simply Buckhead January/February 2022

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Editor’s Letter

Foodie Journal Love at First Sip

News: Home Swank Home

Staycation Gastronomic Getaway

Travel Far Spiritual Renewal

Kids: Baby Bumps

15 Minutes With Erin McCutcheon

Bulletin Board Mosquito-Free Zone