RITZ-CARLTON ATLANTA LOW COUNTRY COOKING CLASS

AN EVENING OF PURLOO AND SYLLABUB IN ATLANTA

By Doc Lawrence

ATLANTA, Ga.—Brian Jones is my kind of chef. A native of the Atlanta area, deeply steeped in genuine Southern cooking traditions, Jones has that sparkle of stardom everyone who cooks should want. Atlanta’s kitchen wizard is teaching a few classes at the luxurious Ritz-Carlton Atlanta. Under Brian Jones’ guidance you can explore, regional southern cooking in all its diversity and eccentricity as he presents a series of demonstration-style culinary classes. Jones, chef de cuisine of Atlanta Grill, will sprinkle an entertaining dose of southern lore with the preparation of regional specialties in a casual setting beginning this Thursday September 20 with Low Country Deconstructed

“History, culture and foods from low-elevation land and the seacoast are the cornerstones of Low Country cuisine,” said Chef Jones. “We’ll think about the origins of the ingredients and flavors, the revival of heritage grains today, then bring it all together in great regional dishes that guests can easily make at home for friends and family.”

Guests will taste small plates from a three-course menu paired with traditional cocktails and selections from regional wineries and breweries. Ritz-Carlton Atlanta Sommelier Brian White hosts special guest Brian “Spike” Buckowski, brewmaster and co-founder of Athens, GA-based Terrapin Beer Company, who will bring six craft beers to sample with Chef Jones’ menu.

Here’s the taste thrills for Low Country Deconstructed:

Cocktails

St. Cecelia Punch or Plantation Punch

Appetizers

Pâté of the South: Pimento Cheese Three Ways, Cheese Straws, Pickled Shrimp

Terrapin Golden Ale, Rye Pale Ale and All American Pilsner

Main Course

Savannah-style Purloo, Carolina Gold Rice and Coastal Seafood

Cracklin’ Cornbread

Terrapin Hopsecutioner, Monk's Revenge and Pumpkin Fest

Dessert

Muscadine and Port Syllabub, Benne Seed Cookies

Classes are $75 per person and may be made by calling Atlanta Grill at (404) 221-6550. Low Country Deconstructed is followed by Foraging through the Great Smoky Mountains on October 18 and Holiday Dining at Chef Brian’s House on November 15.

I'll see you at The Ritz!