Restaurant Informer hosted a celebration lunch for its 2026 class of Rising Stars at Zakia Modern Lebanese restaurant in Buckhead on June 17. In a beautiful setting, each honoree was presented with a framed print of the feature article written about them in Restaurant Informer. Publisher John Sawyer and Editor Lara Creasy hosted the reception. Past Rising Star Olivier … [Read more...] about Restaurant Informer Rising Stars Honored at Awards Luncheon
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Guests Never See Your Systems, but They Always Feel Them
Restaurant operators have a complicated relationship with technology. We know we need tech systems in place. Our businesses require them to take reservations, process payments, route orders, manage schedules and, in general, keep the business moving. Whether we like it or not, technology is an essential foundation of a well-run restaurant. The guest may never know what … [Read more...] about Guests Never See Your Systems, but They Always Feel Them
Melissa Libby, A Leader in Restaurant Public Relations, Announces Retirement
Melissa Libby, owner of hospitality public relations firm Melissa Libby & Associates (MLA), announced her retirement starting at the end of June. MLA team members and clients will move to Caren West PR, a firm that also specializes in hospitality public relations. A graduate of the University of Georgia’s Grady College of Journalism and Mass Communication, Libby has … [Read more...] about Melissa Libby, A Leader in Restaurant Public Relations, Announces Retirement
Rising Star Austin Goetzman Joins Aria as New Executive Chef
Austin Goetzman, who is a 2026 Restaurant Informer Rising Star, was named Aria’s new executive chef. Goetzman joins Aria following experience in some of the country’s most respected kitchens, including Thomas Keller’s The French Laundry in Napa Valley, as well as EL Ideas and Acadia in Chicago. Most recently, he spent several years at Atlanta’s Lazy Betty, where he was part of … [Read more...] about Rising Star Austin Goetzman Joins Aria as New Executive Chef
Under Pressure Wine Bar to Open in Buckhead this Fall Featuring Wine-First Approach
Under Pressure Wine Bar is bringing a fresh perspective to Atlanta’s wine scene later this year, with the goal of becoming a neighborhood go-to and a destination-worthy experience. All levels of wine knowledge and enjoyment will be welcome at this wine-first bar and restaurant coming to Roswell Road in the Chastain area. Created by Atlanta’s first MICHELIN … [Read more...] about Under Pressure Wine Bar to Open in Buckhead this Fall Featuring Wine-First Approach
Creative Team Behind Westside Motor Lounge to Open Pop-Up Concept at Krog District
The Krog District will welcome pop-up concept LikeMinds this spring, slated to be an inclusive and inviting space that is founded on the common thread that unites us all: Different journeys, same destination. The pop-up, slated for a limited 120-day run, is fueled by a collective of Atlanta hospitality veterans for a high-energy experience rooted in music, food and … [Read more...] about Creative Team Behind Westside Motor Lounge to Open Pop-Up Concept at Krog District
Travelers will Soon Meet Enzo at Atlanta Airport’s Delta Sky Club
This spring, ENZO Steakhouse & Bar has touched down in the Delta Sky Clubs at the world’s busiest airport, as part of Delta Air Lines’s Local Flavor program, spotlighting the chefs and restaurants shaping Atlanta’s dining scene. Whether arriving or departing to the B and D Concourses at Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport, Delta Sky Club guests get a taste of Chef … [Read more...] about Travelers will Soon Meet Enzo at Atlanta Airport’s Delta Sky Club
Good Luck Smoke Show Returns to Sweet Auburn Barbecue with All-Star Chef Line Up
Atlanta-based Sweet Auburn Barbecue is bringing back its Good Luck Smoke Show on May 20 for a one-night celebration. Timed to coincide with Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, the party brings together an award-winning mix of chefs for an evening of food, music, culture and block party energy. Now in its second year, Good Luck Smoke Show has expanded with … [Read more...] about Good Luck Smoke Show Returns to Sweet Auburn Barbecue with All-Star Chef Line Up
