THE SPOTTED DOG is the latest addition to the Atlanta-based Derek Lawford group of British-style neighborhood pubs — which includes the Angel in Decatur, Prince of Wales near Piedmont Park, Fox and Hound on the west side, and Hand in Hand in Virginia-Highland. This time, the venue is a renovation of a historic firehouse in Midtown. And while the upscale pub grub will be familiar to anyone who's been to any of the other Derek Lawford spots, the high ceilings and airy, wide-open spaces create an atmosphere that's dramatically different.
CLUBBY PUB: Spotting the Spotted Dog can be a bit of a challenge. Located on bustling North Avenue, between Peachtree and West Peachtree streets, the only parking is in a pay lot next door. The brick exterior retains the look of the old firehouse. Inside, though, except for some vintage brass fire extinguishers that have been made into lamps, there aren't many reminders that this was ever anything other than a bar/restaurant. The decor is solidly masculine and clubby, with exquisite tile floors, lots of dark wood and brass, and plush cushions. The upstairs is available for private parties.
HEARTY GRUB: The menu features classic fish and chips and the bodacious Brit burger with caramelized onions, Stilton cheese and crisp bacon, as well as bangers and mash and shepherd's pie. Other hearty entrees include a big, juicy grilled pork chop with buttery mashed potatoes. But there are also nods to more contemporary tastes, such as plump grilled shrimp atop fragrant jasmine rice and fish tacos with zippy tartar sauce. And one of the best things on the menu is also one of the simplest: thin potato chips topped with blue cheese, bacon bits and scallions. Brunch is served on Saturdays and Sundays, with French toast, eggs Benedict and omelets.
FULL BAR: The beer list includes 11 draft and 13 bottled beers, with the usual Bass and Guinness and a few high gravity offerings, such as Duvel. There's also a small wine list. But cocktails seem to be most popular. On Friday, the Spotted Dog will celebrate St. Patrick's Day with a tent party in the parking lot and a special menu, featuring corned beef and cabbage.
HOURS: 11 a.m.-2 a.m. Mondays-Saturdays; 11 a.m.-midnight Sundays. Brunch: 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturdays-Sundays
CREDIT CARDS: All major
PRICES: Starters and salads: $5-$10; sandwiches and burgers: $8-$10 entrees: $9-$15; desserts: $6
RESERVATIONS: No
RECOMMENDED DISHES: Brit burger, potato chips with blue cheese, grilled pork chop
PARKING: Pay lot
WHEELCHAIR ACCESS: Yes
SMOKING POLICY: No smoking
NOISE LEVEL: Moderate
TAKEOUT: Yes
VERDICT: Historic firehouse transformed into clubby urban pub with hearty food and drink.
