Rick Tanner has been selling chicken at various locations around metro Atlanta since 1986. The newest Rick Tanner’s Grille and Bar at the Shops at Hamilton Mill has been open only since August. But it’s already crowded with folks who love Tanner’s way with fried chicken fingers and basted rotisserie birds.
The look: Tanner's took over the former Fieldhouse space, creating a family-friendly atmosphere that's part sports bar, part live music venue, and a popular lunch spot. Flat- screen TVs hang from every wall, along with team banners and rock memorabilia. There's an expansive patio and the horseshoe-shaped granite bar is a late-night gathering spot.
The scene: Depending on the day and the hour, the scene changes rapidly. On a recent Sunday afternoon, extended families with grandparents, parents and children settled in for supper at several large tables. At the bar, couples and small groups went for beer and wings while tuning in to any number of NFL games.
The menu: Tanner's most popular starter is known as "chicken lips" — fried egg rolls stuffed with chicken and cheese and served with queso sauce. Ribs, pulled pork, burgers, sandwiches and homey fare such as "mom's meatloaf," mac-and-cheese and green beans round out the menu. Daily specials often include prime rib, steaks or fresh fish.
The drinks: The full bar features chilled Jagermeister and Patron shot machines, cocktails and a small selection of wines by the glass. Recent draft beer offerings include Bell's Two Hearted Ale, Sweetwater 420 and Samuel Adams Octoberfest. Look for PBR tallboys and bottled beer specials by the bucket.
The extras: Kids eat free on Mondays, there's trivia on Wednesdays and live music on the weekends. Tanner's does a booming to-go and catering business, with combo packs and custom meals. For Thanksgiving, roasted turkey dinners with sides will be available by special order.
Dining out
Rick Tanner’s Grille and Bar
Kitchen: 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Sundays-Thursdays, 11 a.m.- 11 p.m. Fridays-Saturdays. Bar open late. Lunch specials: 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Mondays-Fridays.
Snacks and starters, $4-$15; burgers and sandwiches,$7-$8.50; entrees and platters, $7-$18.
3519 Braselton Highway, Dacula. 770-932-6099, www.rtanners.com
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