Checking in on 4th and Swift

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In these still-sobering times for Atlanta restaurant’s scene, when we hear too often about good restaurants closing, it was heartening to check in with 4th and Swift’s chef-owner Jay Swift and hear some positive news. “Our business has been great this fall, and we are still having fun,” says Swift. “It’s seems as though we’re on a dramatic upswing, let’s hope it lasts!”

Swift’s daily-changing Market Menu is in full autumnal swing these days, including entrees like day boat triggerfish with roasted fennel, sweet peppers, black bean puree, and grilled scallop ceviche; a Harris Ranch steak with rutabaga, apples, bacon, and fingerling potatoes, duck breast with locally grown savoy cabbage, cipollini onions, maitake mushrooms, and port wine cherries.

Chrysta Umberger, formerly pastry chef at Restaurant Eugene, gets cheeky with desserts such as “Snap. Crackle. Pop.”—Rice Krispies, white chocolate ganache, balsamic vinaigrette, tangerines, and sucre Pétillant, which are similar to chocolate pop rocks. Check out Umberger’s recipe for sticky toffee pudding on the Reynolds Group blog.

“I am looking forward to perhaps developing a new concept in 2011, but don’t have any specific commitments yet, just some ideas,” says Swift. There is much going on in the neighborhood”—including a New Urban Garden—“that we anticipate benefiting from one way or another. The future remains bright!”

NEWS AND NOTES:
For the first time, Restaurant Weeks for Downtown, Midtown, and Buckhead will be marketed in a joint effort, as announced in the Atlanta Business Journal. In 2011, Buckhead Restaurant Week will be January 29 to Febuary 6; Downtown Restaurant Week, May 28 to June 5 (notably earlier in the year); and Midtown Restaurant Week, August 27 to September 4. The Reynolds Group and the Central Atlanta Progress will jointly market the three events.

Atlantan Nona Sivley has landed in the finals of Hell’s Kitchen.

The Atlanta Business Journal reports that Lime Fresh Mexican Grill—a Miami-based restaurant chain serving Mexican standards like tacos, burritos and quesadillas—is scouting metro Atlanta for locations.

David Lishness has been named President of A Legendary Event catering company.

Buckhead. Tantra, a sexy supper club featuring a Middle Eastern food focus and a slammin‘ cocktail menu, has opened at 2285 Peachtree Road.

What Now Atlanta reports that Toulouse will shutter on December 31.

Downtown. What Now Atlanta first reported that the owners of Wasabi are changing the name of the Castleberry Hill sushi spot to Bottle Rocket on December 31st and expanding the menu to include steak, a tuna burger and grilled fish.

Tomorrow News Today
notes that One Cafe Blanc and Yoeshi have closed.

East Atlanta. CL’s Cliff Bostock notes that Ryan Stewart has returned to The Glenwood as top toque.

Midtown. Chocolate Pink dessert cafe closed yesterday.

 
Question of the Week: What intown resto is offering a “Cookies and Cocktails” menu for the Holidays?

PS. The answer to last week’s QOTW—What popular pub recently added an addition featuring a 500-bottle collection of vintage brews?—is The Brick Store Pub, as reported by Urban Daddy.

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