Koo de Kir

koodiker

Think Warhol’s Factory Girl without the high drama! Koo de Kir, from the French “Coup de Coeur,” translated to “a strike to the heart,” offers the modern space to show off functional art that would complement any home. The lifestyle shop offers modern home furnishings and accessories designed for the urban lifestyle. Since opening in 1997, this boutique shop has been catering to the city’s biggest trendsetters. Because your home is an expression of who you are, the folks here hope your experience both in the store and on the website “inspires you to think, dream, live laugh and love in an home imbued with a sense of style.” Check out the website at koodekir.com.

Midtown Mainstay: Baraonda Caffé Italiano

With its Peachtree address, intimately rustic decor and flower-lined sidewalk patio, Baraonda Caffé Italiano could easily coast on atmosphere. But the wood-burning brick oven is a sure sign that this lively pizza-and-pasta parlor does no such thing. The thin-crust pies are the real deal, most topped with simple, classic combinations like prosciutto, mozzarella and arugula—no barbecue sauce or ranch dressing here. In fact, the whole menu hews to Italian tradition, be it Sicilian-style rigatoni alla Norma with fried eggplant and ricotta salata; beef carpaccio with parmesan, capers, lemon juice, and olive oil; or uove in purgatorio (eggs baked in tomato sauce) for brunch. Meanwhile, oenophiles are sure to appreciate a wine list scattered with lesser-known varietals like Insolia, Brachetto, and Rosso di Montalcino—not least because the prices rarely break $40.

Atlanta Contemporary Art Center

The Atlanta Contemporary Art Center is where to go to experience contemporary culture. You’ll find painting, sculpture, music and performances by local, national and international artists. Check their schedule—they’re famous for their artist talks and innovative presentations involving audience participation.

The Center is currently closed for renovation, but will be re-opening on October 19, 2013. Visit the website at thecontemporary.org for more information about events during the summer, and the grand re-opening!