Metro Atlanta Food News: Award-Winning Soju, Openings & More

The culinary landscape of Metro Atlanta is buzzing with exciting developments, from local spirits achieving global recognition to new dining destinations opening their doors. This week, we celebrate a significant win for a Doraville-based distillery, mourn the loss of a pivotal figure in the restaurant supply industry, and highlight several new restaurant openings and special events across the city.

Atlanta-Made Soju Crowned World’s Best

Doraville’s own Minhwa Spirits has achieved international acclaim, with its Yong Original Soju winning double-gold and “best-in-class” at the prestigious 2025 San Francisco World Spirits Competition. This remarkable feat positions the locally distilled spirit as a contender for the best soju globally, triumphing over established Korean distillers through blind tastings.

Business partners Ming Han Chung and James Kim, both Georgia Tech graduates, launched Minhwa Spirits in late 2023 with a mission to revive traditional, high-quality craft soju. Unlike industrialized versions often criticized for being cheaper and sweeter, Yong Original Soju offers a crisp, smooth flavor, perfect for sipping straight or as a neutral base in cocktails. The duo hopes this accolade will ignite greater curiosity in their product and elevate Korean spirits in the U.S. market, much like tequila’s journey from exotic to mainstream. Find Minhwa Spirits at 2421 Van Fleet Circle, Doraville, or online at minhwaspirits.com.

Remembering a Legend: Howard Halpern

The Atlanta dining community mourns the passing of Howard Halpern, founder of Halperns’ Steak and Seafood, who died Thursday at age 85. A true pioneer, Halpern moved to Atlanta in 1966 and established Halperns’ Gourmet Grocer in 1972, an innovative combination restaurant and butcher shop. He transitioned to wholesale in 1983 with Buckhead Beef, which was later acquired by Sysco. He then founded Halperns’ Steak and Seafood, focusing on fine dining restaurants, and remained active in the business until his final weeks. His legacy profoundly shaped the quality of ingredients available to Atlanta’s chefs and restaurants.

Restaurant Highlights & Happenings

New Management at Vice Steak Bar

Vice Steak Bar in Milton has welcomed Jamie Saad as its new general manager. Saad, who previously managed hospitality operations at Rockingham Speedway, was drawn to Vice Steak Bar’s unique vertical integration, boasting its own cattle operation in North Georgia. This allows for exceptional control over the supply chain, ensuring high quality and competitive pricing. Chef and owner Nick Leahy praised Saad’s keen eye for detail and community-focused personality. Visit them at 3000 Heritage Walk, Milton, or vicesteakbar.com.

Seasonal Specials and Unique Experiences

• Bar Blanc (Westside Provisions District): Starting Nov. 28, enjoy “French Dip Fridays” with two styles of French dip sandwiches during lunch. (barblancatl.com)
• Season (Marietta): Indulge in a limited-time holiday coffee flight for $20, featuring gingerbread latte, sugar cookie latte, eggnog cold brew, and peppermint white mocha. (seasonmarietta.com)
• Tiger Sun (Memorial Drive SE, Atlanta): Their acclaimed movie-inspired omakase cocktail menu shifts to a “Goodfellas” theme, with cocktails like the “2R Rossi.” (tigersunatl.com)
• O by Brush (Buckhead): Experience a unique dessert omakase service beginning Dec. 6. Available daily between 1-3 p.m. with only 10 reservations, priced at $155 per person plus gratuity. (obybrush.com)

Upcoming Atlanta Restaurant Openings

Here’s a quick look at new establishments preparing to welcome diners:

Frequently Asked Questions About Atlanta’s Dining Scene

• What local spirit recently won a global award?
  Minhwa Spirits’ Yong Original Soju, distilled in Doraville, won double-gold and best-in-class at the 2025 San Francisco World Spirits Competition.
• Who was Howard Halpern?
  Howard Halpern was the esteemed founder of Halperns’ Steak and Seafood, a long-time supplier to Atlanta restaurants, who recently passed away at age 85.
• What makes Vice Steak Bar unique?
  Vice Steak Bar stands out due to its vertical integration, owning its own cattle operation in North Georgia, which allows for unique control over quality and pricing.
• Are there any new hotels opening with dining options downtown?
  Yes, Hotel Phoenix is opening December 1 in Centennial Yards, featuring a flagship restaurant named Zephyr and a cocktail bar, Bar Z.
• What unique omakase experiences are available in Atlanta?
  Tiger Sun offers a movie-themed cocktail omakase (“Goodfellas” currently), and O by Brush is launching a dessert omakase service in Buckhead.

From globally recognized spirits to new dining concepts and seasonal delights, Atlanta’s food and dining scene continues to evolve, offering residents a diverse and exciting array of culinary experiences to explore.

Atlanta Soju Crowned Worlds Best