Nearly 2,000 guests participated in the return of tasting events in Sandy Springs as Food That Rocks returned this past weekend. The tasting event completed a four-session run Saturday, Sept. 25 at City Springs. More than 30 restaurants provided their favorite tastes, along with beer, wine, and cocktail tastes. Live music added to the ambiance for each session.
“The pandemic-pause and lingering challenges have been tough on our restaurants and those of us in the hospitality industry. We are thrilled to be back, connecting with the community, and transforming tasters into diners,” said Dale DeSena, founder of Taste of Atlanta, which produced Food That Rocks.
Food That Rocks originated as an outdoor event on one evening, and this year the event was divided into four sessions, creating a more intimate and VIP experience, while allowing additional elbow room for social distancing. Each session featured a different set of Sandy Springs’ restaurants providing their best tastes. At the end of each session, guests voted for their favorites.
The Best Bites Include:
Marlow’s Tavern, Thursday night
The Select, Friday night
O’Reilly’s Public House, Saturday afternoon
il Giallo Osteria & Bar, Saturday Night
Billed as a Party With a Purpose, the focus this year was on the city’s frontline workers. Patrons paid it forward, as a portion of every ticket sold contributed to allow more than 300 frontline workers to receive complimentary tickets.
“While 2020 was a year we all want to forget, 2021 was the year we saw great resilience and resolve. Even Mother Nature contributed to a successful weekend with clear skies and moderate temperatures, added DeSena.
Photos from Food That Rocks 2021
Battle and Brew in action. Photo by Dark Rush Photography.
Photo by Dark Rush Photography.
Three Sisters Catering at Food That Rocks. Photo by Dark Rush Photography.
il Giallo Osteria & Bar having fun, serving up some risotto.
Live music serenading the crowd. Photo by Myron Douglas.
The Select at Food That Rocks 2021. Photo courtesy of Food That Rocks.
Under the Cork Tree and their salt cod croquettes.
Guests dining and listening to live music performances on Saturday night.
Bulleit Frontier Whiskey serving up whiskey cocktails.
