First Look: Deckard's Kitchen & Kegs

Deckard’s Kitchen & Kegs on Ponce de Leon Avenue is the brainchild of Matt Deckard, longtime executive chef for Taco Mac and the creator of the bar menu at The Fred, the Sandy Springs underground speakeasy.

Deckard’s Taco Mac ties are evident in a tavern-style menu that features hearty starters, burgers, sandwiches and entrees, and a well-curated list of craft beers, value wines and culinary cocktails.

The look: Located upstairs in the second story space previously occupied by Matsuri Japanese Restaurant, the look echoes many sturdy design features of The Fred, with a crafty mix of brick and earth tones, a solid walnut bar and gleaming copper draft tower. The open kitchen, dining areas, and covered outdoor patio flow together to create an airy, convivial atmosphere.

The scene: So far, the crowds haven't discovered Deckard's. But during recent lunch and early evening visits, it was evident there were already some regulars who engaged in a bit of banter with the servers and bartenders. Like Taco Mac, Deckard's boasts plenty of flat screen TVs, even out on the patio, making it a prime spot for sports watching.

The menu: Deckard's most unique menu items include the likes of beef goulash ($13) and Sausalito linguine ($16) cooked in New England-style steam kettles. Scotch eggs, fries with pepper gravy and grilled local kielbasa, plus artisan cheese and meat boards are among the small bites. The Pig Pen ($9) is a chorizo burger topped with jalapeno cilantro relish and queso fresco.

The drinks: The draft beer list changes daily, but recently featured Stone Sublimely Self-righteous ($6.25), Lagunitas Little Sumpin' Wild ($5) and Red Brick Fred Brick ($4.25), a special single hop steam beer brewed at Red Brick with Taco Mac beverage director, Fred Crudder. The Bourbon Lancer ($9), mixed with Wathen's bourbon, simple syrup, Angostura bitters and champagne, topped the cocktail list.

The extras: Look for daily lunch and dinner specials and special events, such as beer and cheese tastings and beer dinners. On Sunday, Deckard's will kick off weekly brunch service, 11 a.m.-4 p.m., with the likes of Southern French toast with fresh fruit compote.