Marvin Woods’ Asante debut
Originally slated to open in early November, celebrity chef Marvin Woods' Asante Restaurant and Lounge debuted Dec. 12 in the downtown Atlanta space formerly occupied by Peasant Bistro. Open for lunch and dinner, the concept features "Coastal Soul Cuisine," blending dishes from coastal regions around the world. Woods is known as the TV host of "Home Plate," author of cookbooks "Home Plate Cooking" and "The New Low Country," and lead chef for first lady Michelle Obama's "Let's Move" campaign. 250 Park Ave W. N.W., Atlanta. 404-893-0022.
Bezoria Mediterranean open
Bezoria , a new Eastern Mediterranean concept, opened its first location at Eighth and Peachtree streets on Dec. 13. It's the first of three Bezoria restaurants planned for metro Atlanta in the next 18 months. Billed as "build-your-own premium fast casual" with "all house-made Mediterranean food," look for a menu that includes pita and wheat laffa bread baked daily onsite, and a selection of sandwiches, bowls and salads with a choice of proteins, toppings and sauces. 903 Peachtree St., Suite C, Atlanta. 404-464-5190, bezoria.com.
Buckhead Tavern opening
On Dec. 18, Buckhead Tavern , a neighborhood sports bar and live entertainment venue, is set to open in the former Bonehead's space at the Eclipse Buckhead Condominium development. Johnny Esposito Jr., son of Johnny's Hideaway founder Johnny Esposito Sr., partnered with Atlanta restaurateur Ron Barber on the project. Look for "tavern fare, handcrafted cocktails and a curated selection of beer and wine," in addition to live entertainment Thursdays through Sundays. 264 Pharr Road, Atlanta. 404-917-2620.
Hop City Bar/retail at KSM
Following the opening of Hop City Bar, Hop City opened its beverage store at Krog Street Market last week. The new location is stocked with craft beer, growlers and fine wines for retail sale, while offering 60 craft beers on draft, specialty wines and cocktails that guests can enjoy at the bar or while shopping or eating at KSM. 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Mondays-Thursdays; 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Fridays-Saturdays; 12:30-7 p.m. Sundays. Bar currently closed Sundays. 99 Krog St. 470-355-2534.
About the Author