By Steve Trask
A brand new Irish pub, The Elder Tree Public House, has replaced the former Blue Frog Cantina space in East Atlanta Village and opened in February 2012. The same owners have completely revamped the space into a sleeker, cozier, darker, Irish sports bar complete with faux tin pressed ceilings, dark hardwoods, a huge L-shaped bar, flat screen TVs playing soccer and sports, and a row of high back wooden booths. The small sidewalk patio area will eventually be utilized for dining, but there are plenty of tables and booths inside, or space along the bar for food and libations.
The menu is mixture of Irish/British inspired fare and a sprinkling of southern foods. We started with a side of duck fat fried French fries with a curry dipping sauce – crispy, unique, and decadent. I ordered the standard burger meal, and I added cheese and a strip of pork loin to the adequate burger, along with a side of wickedly rich Stilton infused macaroni and cheese. The macaroni and cheese was outstanding. My friend Mark ordered the grilled salmon and salad where everything was fresh and flavorful. We also sampled their fried potato cakes with salmon lox.
Of course there are plenty of good European draft beers and liquors to choose from at the full bar. The bar staff is eager and attentive, while the wait staff is still learning the ropes at this brand new establishment. Perusing the menu, entrees range from $8-18, and include and are not limited to: fish and chips (yes, made with delicious Haddock), bangers and mash, shepherd’s pie, and scallops. You’ll find lamb items sprinkled throughout the menu, and appetizers that include lump crab cakes (chock full of mostly fresh crab, like you’d get down on the Atlantic or Gulf).
Stop by and ask for Brent, the owner, who will be happy to share the story of his new culinary adventure. Sample some of the chef’s creative creations and some draft beers with your neighbors. They even offer a late night hangover-preventing breakfast plate of fried eggs, pork loin, black and white pudding, and bangers. It’s nice to see something new and different in the village—the only British/Irish pub on this side of I-20. They are still ironing out a few kinks, but expect the Elder Tree to flourish.
The Elder Tree Public House is located in East Atlanta Village at 469 Flat Shoals Avenue SE. 404-658-6108. Hours are Monday – Thursday: 5:00pm -12:00am, Fri: 5:00pm – 3:00am, Sat: 12:00pm – 3:00am, Sun: 12:00pm – 12:00am. (2.5 of 4 Porch Chairs)
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