Chef Joey Ward is getting closer to opening two restaurants in the Plaza Theatre complex on Ponce de Leon Ave.
Ward, who will leave his current position at Gunshow in early 2019, told Eater Atlanta that he'll open two concepts in Poncey-Highland in the former Island Flowers & Gifts space at 1049 Ponce de Leon Ave. next year
Southern Belle, named for Ward’s wife, a former beauty queen, will offer a small plates menu along with cocktails, beer and wine.
The adjoining Georgia Boy will feature a 16-seat chef’s counter serving a 10 course tasting menu, including a vegan option. Beverage pairings will also be available, or customers can order drinks from Southern Belle’s menu.
Holeman & Finch’s Spencer Gomez will serve as chef de cuisine for both concepts.
Ward, who has been working on the project for the past two-and-a-half years, said he chose the location because of its proximity to popular areas including Ponce City Market, Old Fourth Ward and Virginia-Highland.
He added that while he's excited to strike out on his own, leaving Gunshow will be bittersweet.
“Gunshow has been my home since it was just an idea,” he said. “That’s going to be an interesting moment when the day comes to say goodbye.”
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