Michael Benoit, co-owner of the Vortex restaurants, is branching out with wife Kristen and opening Bone Garden Cantina, which launches this weekend. This Mexican restaurant has a Day of the Dead theme, based on the traditional Mexican holiday. Expect skeletal sculptures (Michael has created three) and other Technicolor nods to the celebration. Guests can take advantage of $5 house margaritas served in 14-ounce glasses. And homemade tamales and other Mexican favorites are on the menu. "The only person in the kitchen who speaks English is the kitchen manager," Benoit says regarding the restaurant's authenticity. Bone Garden Cantina is located at the Lumber Yard in Atlanta.
• THE 411: Free. Bone Garden Cantina, 1425 Ellsworth Industrial Blvd., West Side. 404-418-9072, www.bonegardencantina.com.
STROLLING IN WHISKEY PARK
The new W Midtown Atlanta hotel brings with it a hip, happening nightspot. Night life guru Rande Gerber has crafted Whiskey Park, an avant-garde destination that blends rock 'n' roll and glam sensibilities with the plush W trademark. Touches include a botanical outdoor terrace and snazzy indoor decor including mammoth chandeliers. Guests can groove to music while tipping back signature cocktails. Whiskey Park is open 5 p.m.-2 a.m. Sundays-Wednesdays and 5 p.m.-4 a.m. Thursdays-Saturdays.
• THE 411: Free. Whiskey Park, 188 14th St. N.E., Atlanta. 404-892-6000, www.starwoodhotels.com.
GOING STOUT
The former McDuff's location in Buckhead has transformed into Stout Irish Sports Pub. The grand opening bash takes place June 6. The full bar boasts top-shelf selections, including more than 50 beers. For those who prefer their brew cheap and simple, Stout shills Miller High Life beers for $1 every day. Entertainment comes in the form of pool, darts, video games like "Golden Tee" and "Galaga," and international sports on 19 TVs. Or guests can simply kick back on the patio.
• THE 411: Free. 7 p.m. June 6. Stout Irish Sports Pub, 56 E. Andrews Drive, Buckhead. 404-869-1132, www.stoutirishpub.com.
MARTINI MONDAYS
Not only can you drink like P. Diddy at Justin's Restaurant (he owns the place), you can drink a P. Diddy cocktail on Martini Mondays and rub elbows with movers and shakers. This cocktail, made with Alize Red, lemon-infused vodka and other secret ingredients, is among the drinks guests can choose from during this networking and mingling event on the patio and indoors at the bar. Martinis range from $10 to $14 each.
• THE 411: Free. 5 p.m. Justin's Restaurant, 2200 Peachtree Road, Atlanta. 404-603-5353, www.justinsrestaurant.com.
About the Author
Keep Reading
The Latest
Featured
