On Feb. 7, the Hawks unveiled the first of Schafer’s handiwork to culinary operations at Philips Arena. The fixings –fancy proteins like rack of lamb with chimichurri and crispy duck confit a l’orange and vegetables such as bok choy with crispy garlic and roasted butternut squash with a sherry gastrique – were clearly concoctions from the mind of a chef.

"We wanted to bring fine dining and entertainment together," said Hawks CEO Steve Koonin about the improved food and beverage experience that is part of a $192.5 million transformation of the 18-year-old venue that will be completed in time for the team's 2018-19 season.

Read more about what to expect from the new culinary offerings at Philips Arena at myajc.com.

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Aerial photo shows demonstrators holding signs to oppose Trump’s immigration policies during “No Cake for False Kings” protest on the 17th Street NW Bridge, Saturday, June 14, 2025, in Atlanta. (Hyosub Shin / AJC)

Credit: HYOSUB SHIN / AJC