Judging from the online commentary so far, Burger Tap has both delighted and confounded blogger critics with its rectangular-shaped burgers, wall of beer taps and eclectic-modern build-out.
The new Asian-influenced fast casual spot, which opened in Morningside in December, is the creation of a Los Angeles team that includes executive chef Sean Park and some of the original founders of the frozen yogurt chain Yoforia.
The look: Burger Tap is situated in the former Caramba Cafe space on Highland Avenue. There's a sidewalk entrance in front and another entrance via a stairwell from the back parking lot. Inside, the design is a sleek mix of stained wood, stainless steel and polished concrete. The overall look and trademark burger logo give the impression of a franchise-in-the-making.
The scene: One recent weeknight, there was a short line at the order counter, where a friendly young woman answered questions about the menu and dealt with a foamy draft system. Around the long, bright stretch of the dining room, college students sharing pitchers of beer and families feeding young children seemed to define the demographic mix.
The menu: Park's offerings include a couple of green onion and andouille dogs ($3.80/$5.80), plus grilled cheese ($2.80) and portobello veggie ($5.80) sandwiches. But the heart of the menu is his four "themed burgers" -- each made with single or double 4-ounce patties formed from a blend of ground brisket, chuck and short rib that's griddled and served on a buttered, toasted bun. The Classic ($3.80/$5.80) has American cheese, onion, lettuce, tomatoes and house sauce. The Truffle ($5.80/$7.80) is glazed in white truffle oil and topped with Gruyere cheese, crispy onions and roasted garlic aioli.
The drinks: Soft drinks include self-serve Coca-Cola products ($2-$2.30), bottled water ($1.50) and juice boxes ($1). The 25 taps feature domestic, imported and craft beers served in shaker pints or pitchers, ranging from Bud Lite ($2.50/$8) to Heavy Seas Loose Cannon ($5.50/$20).
The extras: There's a $3.50 kid's meal with a grilled cheese or slider, fries and juice box. On Tuesday nights, the beer special is half-off on Sweetwater or Terrapin. Every Wednesday night, look for $2 pints of Woodchuck cider. Every Thursday, it's $1 pints of Pabst Blue Ribbon.
Dining out
Burger Tap, Morningside
Mondays-Thursdays, 11:30 a.m.-10 p.m.; Fridays-Saturdays, 11:30 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sundays, 11:30 a.m.-9 p.m.
Burgers, sausages and sandwiches, $2.80-$7.80; salads and sides, $2-$6.80.
1409 N. Highland Ave. N.E., Atlanta, www.burgertap.com
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