Unfortunately for a lot of business travellers in the downtown Atlanta business district, there are not many of what I would consider interesting options for eating and drinking after the work day is done. Within walking distance of the many offices and hotels you will find plenty of the typical chain offerings from Hooters, to Hard Rock Cafe, to Benihana, to Steak & Ale, and on and on and on. Sure, fair enough, there is Ray's in the City, Pittypat's, and Azio offering some creative dining fare in more comfortable setting. But, there is no real good outlet for brewpubs, beer bars, or take-out beer in the downtown Atlanta business district.
You've seen me write before about Gibney's...not a bad little downtown Irish Pub. Then, also about my trips to Midtown (Vortex and Gordon Biersch) and to Decatur (Brick Store Pub and Twain's). Other stops around the region could include Little Five Points (another Vortex location), Buckhead (eh, Fado), Smyrna (Muss & Turner's), and The Highlands (Limerick Junction, et al).
The downstairs holds the kitchen, a decent size dining room, and a front bar area that can hold a moderate crowd at barstools, hightops, and tables. Upstairs you'll find the bright tanks, pool tables, another (longer) bar, and more dining.
....the beers. They run the gamut here from non-threatening (is that the second time I've used this descriptor?) for the timid to bigger, more flavorful beers for those that are looking for them. Here's a quick rundown of their four usual taps, followed by a couple of seasonals that I noted on my last trip there.
Honey- subtle honey, very quaffable; good for a session
Red- thinner than expected, but nicely drinkable, just enough malt, nothing offensive over all
Black- ROASTED HEAVEN!, hint of chocolate, just enough weight
English Pale Ale- nicely balanced; a pleasant, mild fuggle hop bitterness in the finish
Barleywine- very nice; smooth, 11.5% ABV, decent body, hops noticeable in finish, then disappear; ready for more!
I think you get the message here. While Max Lager's may not be a destination beer stop in and around Atlanta, if you're in the downtown business district it is the place to go for decent craft beer and a nice dinner.
No comments:
Post a Comment