Quick Bites: New beer at Hopstix, Jinya Ramen comes to Buckhead, the poke train keeps rollin’ and more

Food news roundup



No value assignedChamblee’s Hopstix brewpub and nearby film studio Third Rail Studios have collaborated on a new beer. Sales of the tasty Belgian witbier with Thai flavors like lemongrass and galangal root go toward re:imagine/ATL, a local nonprofit that empowers the next generation of storytellers by providing mentorship and training in film, music and podcasting. “Beer is part art, and part science,” said Hopstix founder/brewer Andy Tan. “This launch is a perfect example of the artistic side and we’re proud to support the growing local art scene.?۝



Poke saturation continues in Atlanta. Signage indicates Poke Drop is opening soon in Downtown Decatur at the former Salon Red location (123 East Ponce de Leon Ave.)

Deal alert! Fifth Group Restaurants has extended a half-price gift cards promotion until today (June 30). Eat $40 worth of food at Ecco, La Tavola, Lure, South City Kitchen, Alma or El Taco for $20. The electronic gift cards are available on the group’s website and are only valid for dinner.

Here’s a chance to do something good. Two neighbors opened Community Grounds 10 years ago in Lakewood Heights as a safe place for community and coffee. It has grown and moved since then but the mission remains ??_ and so does the same espresso machine. The organization received a matching grant for half the funds needed for a new machine but require more money to keep the coffee shop open in historic South Atlanta. Want to help? Click here.

There is a new place to slurp in Buckhead. Jinya Ramen Bar is now open on 3714 Roswell Rd. Be sure to try their black tonkotsu, a Creative Loafing 100 Dishes honoree. The California-based ramen shop also has a location in Sandy Springs.

Moving back to traditional Indian cuisine, Amara has hired a new chef. Praveen Sharma has 20 years experience cooking in India and brings many of his signature dishes to the Inman Park restaurant. “We are going to listen to our fans and take the menu back to basics,” Amara said in a press release, “and Sharma’s extensive experience and expertise will allow us to serve some incredible Indian fare for our neighbors.” The new menu rolls out on July 4th.

Hot spot BoccaLupo is a difficult reservation to snag but we have a tip. Head to Freedom Farmers Market this Saturday, where chef Bruce Logue will be cooking in the pop-up chef tent. Folk artist Frank Brannon will be rocking the farm stand.

NEXTO in Old Fourth Ward has partnered with Reformation Brewery to host movie nights this summer. The film and fare will change weekly, but expect wings, burgers, ramen and drink specials. Hopefully there will be White Russians at the next event, a doubleheader featuring The Big Lebowski and Fargo on Thurs., July 6.

It’s a pop pop-up! Birmingham-based Steel City Pops, which makes gourmet paleta-style popsicles from all natural and local ingredients, opened this past weekend at the Shops Buckhead Atlanta. Pops like strawberry lemonade with watermelon and creamy avocado are $3 each. The shop, located at the center of the plaza, will be serving through October.

Springer Mountain Farms recently recognized Philippe Haddad, executive chef/partner of Cape Dutch. Haddad received the Celebrate the Chef Award, Springer’s highest honor.