Monthly Archives

October 2014

happenings

Georgia’s top breweries celebrate at Georgia Craft Beer Festival

October 31, 2014

Beer aficionados and good-time-goers made their way to Atlanta’s Candler Park for the Georgia Craft Beer Festival. Celebrating it’s second installment, and with over 100 cold craft beers on tap for sampling, the scene at the Georgia Craft Beer Festival was a glowing outdoor celebration of culture complete with live entertainment, arts and crafts, and a smorgasbord of food trucks.

Georgia Craft Beer Festival

Photo Credit: Michael Bradley

The Georgia Craft Beer Festival, presented by BDI Live, featured over 30 top statewide breweries, attracting beer mavens from all corners of the city to enjoy a supremely satisfactory afternoon beneath the autumn sun. The fun factor was amped with good vibrations, lip-licking libations and rockin’ live performances by local musicians Wesley Cook, Sailing to Denver, The Higher Choir and Neil Cribbs. Jamming to the tunes, guests browsed the impressive selection of fine local artwork, clothing, jewelry and the like – but the fun didn’t stop there! Twists on perennial party favorites had festival-goers enjoying games like life-size Jenga and bubble soccer.

Georgia Craft Beer Festival

Photo Credit: Michael Bradley

Event proceeds benefited The Georgia Craft Brewers Guild, which is a trade organization representing the many delicious craft breweries and beer pubs throughout the state of Georgia. Those serious about their beer selections know that without organizations like the GCBG, fun-filled festivals such as this would be difficult to come by! Needless to say, the Georgia Craft Beer Festival’s second anniversary was a memorable afternoon brimming with great sips, tasty eats and cultural treats for all to raise a pint in toast. And if this year’s festival was a preview of what’s in store for 2015, then I will definitely be back for another round!

For more information about the Georgia Craft Beer Festival please visit www.georgiacraftbeerfestival.com

happenings

Le Dîner en Blanc: A White Haute Affair

October 20, 2014

Picture this… You’re invited to an exclusive affair at the backdrop of the most beautiful view in town… but its location is unknown. The requirements; wear your finest white attire; pack a picnic feast along with a table and a few chairs. Oh, and most importantly, bring a friend.

On a brisk day in the city, under the eve of a moonlit sky, Atlanta’s most chic crowd did exactly that… at Le Dîner en Blanc.

Held at the gorgeous Millennium Gate Park at Atlantic Station, this private, posh picnic that’s equal parts mystery tour, pop-up feast, je ne sais quoi, and must-attend epicurean phenomenon, brought out Atlanta’s most fabulous for a fashionable feast underneath the stars. Moët & Chandon hosted this white haute affair with sips courtesy of their Moet Ice Imperial. Fitted in an all-white bottle and filled with luxurious flavor, Moet’s Ice Imperial served as the perfect pairing to the night’s festivities that featured decadent dining, lots of dancing, candid moments captured on camera, and many wishes that the night would never end.

Diner en Blanc - Atlanta

Images courtesy of Robin Lori Photography

Known as the world’s most fashionable flash mob, and celebrating its 25th anniversary, Le Dîner en Blanc is much more than a simple mix and mingle over a meal. A fabulous “tres chic picnic” is exactly what you get when you break out the blanc and experience it for yourself. With over 100,000 members worldwide, the beautiful people that signup for the privilege to attend this privé affaire revel at the chance to partake in a memorable moment that shapes up as the most magical meal under the moon.

Le Dîner en Blanc, a Parisian-born, worldwide-adored and exquisitely performed dinner outdoors draws over 15,000 attendees each year in cities across the globe. Diner en Blanc is only specific about the important things: wear white and bring a cosmopolitan appetite.

Diner en Blanc - Atlanta

Images courtesy of Robin Lori Photography

Those in the know for this posh pop-up picnic eagerly await the venue announcement. Donned in all white and ready for a regally rowdy night, attendees know that whichever spot is chosen, they are sure to “see and be seen.” And a sight to see it is. Both revelers and passers-by gasp in awe at the sight of partiers dressed in all-white as they walk in procession to their final destination. Diner en Blanc graced Atlantans for the first time this year as the private dinner party to which you wish you were invited – which is only fitting, since that’s exactly how the event began 25 years ago.

Native Parisian Francois Pasquier had been studying abroad for about three years, and upon his return to France, many of his friends wanted to meet for dinner to catch up. Knocking out two birds with one incredibly chic and well-thrown stone, Pasquier decided to invite all his friends to dinner, encouraging each to bring a plus one. Everyone was instructed to wear white as to recognize the others in attendance… And, well, the rest is history.

Diner en Blanc - Atlanta

Images courtesy of Robin Lori Photography

Diner en Blanc proved to be nothing less than the delectable dinner party that served up fashionable food and scrumptious style. Diner en Blanc is a place where new friends are made and elegance is on full display. And although this posh party was a first for Atlanta in 2014, it definitely won’t be the last. Until next time, friends!

Nikka Shae The Undercover Socialite

etc, etc

Montblanc Celebrates Grand Reopening of Lenox Square Boutique

October 15, 2014

Montblanc—a steadfast industry staple in the exquisite craftsmanship of writing instruments, timepieces and leather goods— recently hosted a Grand Re-Opening event for its boutique located at Lenox Square Mall in Atlanta. The event featured a preview of the luxury brand’s new Extreme Collection and an exclusive tasting of Aberfeldy 12 and Aberfeldy 21 Single Malt Scotch Whisky. The night exuded Montblanc’s main principles in design, style, quality, and workmanship that the legendary company has upheld for over 100 years. Aberfeldy Scotch also celebrated a re-launch by debuting new packaging for both the 12-year and 21-year aged malts. Having already garnered acclaim by earning “The Best Highland Single Malt” at the World Whiskies Awards 2014, Aberfeldy Single Malt Scotch is back for another round of taste-filled excitement.

And, as if it weren’t already a success, the event also included a star roster, where special guests such as Dave Annable of Red Band Society, Kat Graham of Vampire Diaries, and Kristen Ledlow from ESPN and HLN mixed and mingled among the attendees over delightful snacks and tasty spirits. In addition to the sumptuous sips by Aberfeldy, one of the highlights of the night featured a sneak peek of the pristine and dashing new Montblanc Extreme Collection.

Montblanc Re-Grand Opening

Photo Credit: Craig Bromley/Getty Images for Montblanc

Building a bridge between a long tradition of fine craftsmanship and a constant quest for innovation, Montblanc’s Extreme Collection masterfully blends the brands historic leather manufacturing process with cutting edge techniques resulting in a collection that’s unique and very stylish.

Montblanc Re-Grand Opening

Photo Credit: Ralph Williams for E37 Photography

In a showcase of style meets sophistication, the collective opinion of the new collection seemed unanimous—Montblanc truly takes luxury to a new level. With supreme craftsmanship by Montblanc and unparalleled sips by Aberfeldy, the evening saw the perfect pairing of taste and timelessness. Reminiscing on a fabulous night that featured great company, great sips and great style, there’s no doubt that the re-addition of Montblanc at Lenox Square will become a welcome tradition for shoppers with a taste for the finer things.

Montblanc is located inside Lenox Square Mall at 3393 Peachtree Rd, Atlanta, GA 30326.

Nikka Shae The Undercover Socialite

freebies

Giveaway Alert: Cirque du Soleil “Amaluna” Tickets:: CLOSED

October 14, 2014

Celebrating its 30th Anniversary in 2014, Cirque du Soleil brings a new show to Atlanta! Amaluna invites the audience to a mysterious island governed by goddesses and guided by the cycles of the moon. Amaluna’s Tony Award-winning Show Director, Diane Paulus, drew from a series of classical influences when creating the concept of the show; including tales from Greek and Norse mythology, Mozart’s The Magic Flute, and Shakespeare’s The Tempest.

Cirque du Soleil Amaluna
Cirque du Soleil Amaluna
Cirque du Soleil Amaluna

Now playing under the famed blue-and-yellow Big Top at Atlantic Station thru November 30th, Amaluna is a magical journey that you have to see to believe. I had a chance to catch Amaluna and I must say that it was absolutely mesmerizing!!! And, I want YOU to experience Cirque’s Amaluna for yourself! That’s right! I’m giving away a pair of tickets to two of my lucky followers to see and experience this once in a lifetime show before it hits the road.

To enter simply complete the form below. Pretty simply right?!

Here are the details:

Giveaway ends on Sunday, October 26th at 8:00 pm. All winners will be randomly selected and notified on Sunday, October 26th.

Tickets are valid for the 7:30 pm showtime at The Grand Chapiteau at Atlantic Station on Tuesday, October 28th ONLY. Tickets are electronically generated and will be emailed to all winners on Sunday, October 26th.

Good luck and enjoy the show!

Cirque du Soleil “Amaluna” Ticket Giveaway

cravings

Zinburger: A Zen-ful Experience

October 8, 2014

To simply say that Zinburger met my expectations would be quite the understatement. My experience at Zinburger was so much more than “good.” It was more like a slice of heaven – that is, if heaven is filled with made-to-order gourmet Angus burgers, “zin”-ful hand-dipped shakes, and to-die-for signature cocktails.

I was given the privilege of attending a special behind-the-scenes preview of the menu, compliments of Executive Chef David Maini, who showed us around Zinburger’s versatile yet distinctive menu.

Zinburger’s upbeat and inviting atmosphere alone is enough to have you reliving your glorious childhood years. Warning: This is not your average burger joint! With contemporary style, playfulness and comfort on the menu, you’ll feel like a kid again as you slurp down a decadent Salted Caramel Shake like I did.

Zinburger

What’s the best burger to complement, you might ask? Feast your eyes (and your taste buds!) on the famous Zinburger, of course: certified Angus beef that’s ground to order, topped with Manchego cheese and Zinfandel braised onions finished with mayo. If you’re looking to shake things up a bit, the Samburger was also excellent; meditate on the thought of Nueske’s Applewood Smoked Bacon, American cheese and 1000 Island dressing… Burger bliss, I tell you! The Turkey burger is perfect for those watching their waistlines and the Kobe Burger brought American style Kobe Beef almost back to life when accompanied by cheddar cheese and wild mushrooms.

And what would a hearty patty be without an amazing side? Chef Maini served up famous Double Truffle Fries, Sweet Potato Fries, and Zucchini Fries–each seasoned to a T. It seems there’s really something for everyone at Zinburger, and no category is lacking…

…Take, for instance, the lighter fare. If you thought a burger joint couldn’t create scrumptious salads too, you’ll be pleasantly surprised by Zinburger. The Seared Ahi and Chinese Chicken Salads each had their own twist on Oriental zest; the Ahi with avocado, cashews and Asian vinaigrette, and the Chinese Chicken was completed by orange segments, red peppers, crispy wontons and Asian Vinaigrette. A lovely summer salad was The Napa, which presented dried fruit over organic greens, almonds, and goat cheese. Stick with your slim streak and add a Skinny Margarita that’ll refresh you with the unexpected addition of orange juice.

Zinburger

If it’s wrong to follow a fresh salad with a creamy pie, I don’t want to be right! Because the Banana Cream and Chocolate Cream pies that blessed our forks tasted too good to not be forbidden.

With an impressive wine list to boot, we were delighted by Melville Vineyard’s “Fox Block Nine” Pinot Noir. You really can’t go wrong with a juicy burger and shameless shake that’s completed with a warming glass of red wine.

Zinburger

By pairing great wine with uh-mazing burgers, a sinfully satisfying menu, in a zen-like setting,  you will find it impossible to not fall in love for Zinburger. I can’t wait to explore this “zen”-filled place again… and again!

Zinburger is conveniently located at main entrance of Lenox Square mall at 3393 Peachtree Rd, Atlanta, GA 30326.

Nikka Shae The Undercover Socialite

 

happenings

InstaLIVE! Atlanta Eats Live 2014

October 5, 2014

Atlanta’s hottest restaurants once again took center plate at the Verizon Wireless Amphitheater as thousands of eatery enthusiast, food aficionados, and connoisseurs of cuisine from all over bid bon appetite to a smorgasbord of local flavor at Atlanta Eats Live 2014. What does that mean? It means LIVE music, LIVE cooking demos, and LIVE rock star chefs. Building on the success of last year’s event, 40 handpicked restaurants around Atlanta showcased their finest dishes served in a rock n’ roll atmosphere.

I attended last year’s event at I can tell you that it was well worth every bite. 😛 This year there was even more fabulous food, more restaurants and top chefs, and lots more fun! For 2014 Atlanta Eats Live featured the musical stylings of Yacht Rock Schooner who spiced up the crowd with a medley of ’70s and ’80s hits. Hosts Steak Shapiro and Mara Davis, both longtime voices of Atlanta radio, served as emcees for the second annual foodie extravaganza. And in keeping with tradition, Atlanta Eats Live directly benefited the restaurant community – with a portion of proceeds going to The Giving Kitchen charity.

Atlanta Eats Live hosted yet another unforgettable event and I have the pictures to prove it! That’s right; I captured every bit (and bite) of the action LIVE on Instagram below! So get your taste ‘buds and get ready for a fabulous night of entertainment, plenty of delicious food, and loads of fun! Follow the fun on both Instagram and Twitter using #AtlantaEatsLive and #OhNikkaATLEatsLive14. Here’s a lineup of the restaurants!

About Atlanta Eats: Atlanta Eats is the première multimedia company dedicated to capturing the food and dining out scene in Atlanta. Founded by Steak Shapiro in 2012, Atlanta Eats is comprised of a popular weekly 30-minute TV program and a highly interactive digital and social media presence. Fans count on Atlanta Eats to deliver engaging, entertaining and informative content, helping them discover new places, plan their next special meal, and dig deeper into the city’s flourishing food scene.  For more information, visit www.atlantaeats.com.

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More pics from Atlanta Eats Live 2013:

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freebies

UGG + Swarovski Launch ‘Glitterati Challenge’

October 2, 2014

This fall, UGG is stepping into the season with sparkle by partnering with Swarovski for the first ever ‘Glitterati Challenge’ in celebration of the new Swarovski crystal customization opportunities in all UGG stores!

Inclusive of all 23 North America UGG Australia stores, UGG will host an in-store only contest for the chance to win a custom crystalized pair of Classic Tall boots.  UGG fans are invited to visit any UGG store, view the display and guess the number of crystals used to cover the coveted boot.  One lucky winner will take home a pair of the custom Swarovski jeweled boots – a prize retailing at almost $5,000!  The boot itself is hand-crafted and requires about 40 hours of labor to complete. WOW!!!

The ‘Glitterati Challenge’ will run from October 8th through October 22nd.  There is no purchase necessary to participate, and the winner will receive their custom boots in time for the holidays.  The lucky winner will be announced on November 3rd.

The ‘Glitterati Challenge’ kicks off the new design palate of Swarovski crystal customization offered by UGG Australia stores this fall.  With additions like detailed stars, skulls and flowers, the new options are a way to bring sparkle to favorite classic UGG styles, from boots or slippers to loungewear.

Visit the UGG store at Lenox Square or any UGG store nationwide, and take your best guess to win a pair of blinged out boots!

Nikka Shae The Undercover Socialite

Simon Mall Style Setter Lenox Square