For longtime Atlanta residents, the new Yard House in Atlantic Station will invite comparisons to the updated versions of local favorite, Taco Mac.
With cross-country locations from Arizona to New York, Yard House features a huge draft beer list, with rows and rows of tap handles to match. But beyond that, the California-birthed concept is surprisingly upscale, with a sprawling menu that includes Asian-inspired snacks, burgers, pizza, seafood and steaks, and an atmosphere that’s more rocking restaurant than sports bar.
The look: The architectural focal point of the space is an imposing center island bar, where a stainless steel tap tower connects to a glass-enclosed keg room via a web of overhead beer lines enclosed in refrigerated pipes. The simple contemporary decor is accented by the colorful abstract paintings of California artist Jerome Gastaldi.
The scene: One Saturday afternoon, “Black Magic Woman” flowed among the steady stream of classic rock songs booming from the sound system. The covered brick patio, fitted with TVs and ceiling fans, was the popular place hang out. Inside, a large party gathered at a long banquet table, while several young men sipped tall “half-yard” vessels of ale.
The menu: The food offerings total some 130 items contained in a hefty menu book. Snacks such as edamame with kosher salt ($3.65) and an ahi poke bowl with macadamia nuts with crispy wontons ($5.85) meet an appetizer-size grilled artichoke with potato chips ($9.85). Street tacos come as a snack ($3.85-$5.35) or a plate with rice and beans ($10.35-$13.35). Entrees top out with a 12-ounce grilled ribeye steak and jumbo shrimp combo ($31.35).
The drinks: Draft beer is served by the half-yard, traditional pint or six pack sampler. Oddly, the beer list doesn’t include prices. A rotating, seasonal and specialty beer list, which recently featured local treats like Sweetwater Sticky Nugs and Terrapin 10th Anniversary, is posted on an electronic “blackboard” above the bar. Cocktails include house martinis and “fresh and skinny” drinks.
The extras: Look for kids, gluten-sensitive and seasonal sub-menus, as well as lunch specials, happy hour and late-night menus.
Dining Out
Yard House, Atlantic Station
11 a.m.- 1 a.m. Mondays-Thursdays; 11 a.m.-2 a.m. Fridays-Saturdays. 11 a.m.-midnight Sundays.
Snacks and appetizers, $2.95-$13.95; burgers, sandwiches and pizza, $12-$16; entrees, seafood and steak, $8.95-$31.45.
261 19th Street N.W., Atlanta, 404-815-8990, www.yardhouse.com/GA/atlanta-restaurant/
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