There is no doubt that Atlantans are excited to welcome the 2026 FIFA World Cup to the city this summer. Restaurateurs are some of the most excited, given the potential revenue the event will generate for the hospitality industry here. But imagine being an Atlanta restaurateur who also happens to be a former professional soccer player AND a native of a country playing a group … [Read more...] about Justin Anthony: Restaurateur, South African and Passionate Soccer Fan
Profiles
Two Atlantans Inducted Into The Culinary Institute of America’s Alumni Walk of Fame
The Culinary Institute of America recently inducted 21 distinguished alums into its inaugural Alumni Walk of Fame. The honor singles out alumni who have made lasting contributions to the food, beverage, and hospitality industries. Atlantan John C. Metz Jr., CEO, executive chef and co-founder of Sterling Hospitality was among the first group of honorees, as was Pano I. … [Read more...] about Two Atlantans Inducted Into The Culinary Institute of America’s Alumni Walk of Fame
Opportunities and challenges facing restaurateurs in Rome, Georgia
Cradled by the curves of the Etowah and Oostanaula Rivers in northwest Georgia sits Rome, a charming southern town where neoclassical architecture stands as a testament to its rich heritage and hospitality thrives. However, Rome is more than just a quaint city; it’s a place of transition and transformation. Situated in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, … [Read more...] about Opportunities and challenges facing restaurateurs in Rome, Georgia
Nick Quiñones Named Beverage Director of Castellucci Hospitality Group
Castellucci Hospitality Group has named Nick Quiñones as their first-ever Beverage Director. The news follows a milestone week for CHG, with its MICHELIN-starred restaurant Mujō recognized as Atlanta Journal-Constitution’s “Best Restaurant in Atlanta.” A familiar face in Atlanta’s restaurant community, Nick brings more than two decades of experience to the role, where he … [Read more...] about Nick Quiñones Named Beverage Director of Castellucci Hospitality Group
Ela in Virginia-Highland Announces New Executive Chef
Gizzy Rawlins has been appointed executive chef of Ela Mediterranean Restaurant in Virginia-Highland. Raised in Decatur, Rawlins enrolled at Le Cordon Bleu in Atlanta in 2009, which led to her first kitchen role in a French bistro. She soon became the first female line cook at Rathbun’s, eventually rising to lead sauté and sous chef before helping open KR … [Read more...] about Ela in Virginia-Highland Announces New Executive Chef
Rooted in Flavor, Fueled by Family
Rafael Jaime is living the American dream. The founder and president of CT Cantina & Taqueria in Alpharetta is a man whose personal journey is inspiring, rooted in resilience and an unwavering passion for his vibrant cultural heritage. Originally from Jalisco, Mexico, Rafael grew up one of 15 siblings. He was a farmer and a pig and cattle rancher, working alongside his … [Read more...] about Rooted in Flavor, Fueled by Family
Rising Stars 2025: Cari Fundora
Director of Marketing and Operations, Casa Nuova Italian Restaurant, Alpharetta By Toby Bloomberg "The restaurant is my second home," says Cari Fundora. Cari represents the next generation of hospitality leadership: blending tradition with innovation while maintaining unwavering commitment to staff, guests, and community. Her parents, Cuban immigrants, opened Casa Nuova in … [Read more...] about Rising Stars 2025: Cari Fundora
Rising Stars 2025: Jay Kloepfer
Co-owner GM, Marti’s at Midday, Atlanta By Nancy Woods During the COVID pandemic in 2020, Jay Kloepfer was faced with an unexpected life change. After completing a business degree at the University of North Georgia, the Athens native had forged a career as a SCUBA and sailing instructor for 12 years. However, while on a boat in Antigua in 2020, he learned of the untimely … [Read more...] about Rising Stars 2025: Jay Kloepfer
