Christmas Day back in Raleigh

With so much work to complete I made the mistake again by not scheduling to visit family and loved ones but I am thankful to be invited to a few gatherings...

At the Reynolds we prepared the traditional turducken and shucked raw oysters as it was cooking. 

 In a misguided attempt to make jan pong with pig skin noodles last night I bought baby octopus and scallops but decided to convert them into a warm app medley....  To pinch and swallow as the monster roasts in the oven. 

I can't believe this is only hour 1.

Empire State South

The start of a great meal in midtown Atlanta with some incredible company and laughs to boot.  Empire State South where the bartenders serve "classic cocktails" and are willing to fight you about what you think is classic but will end up makin what you want anyway....

Below is the ravioli with black truffle shavings.  Soooo good

Their version which was pretty darn good... Crispy rice with kim chi mixed with a soft boiled farm egg. 

A must go....