First look: The BookHouse Pub

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The hot new trend in Atlanta seems to be the emergence of several new gastropubs. Which actually makes a lot of sense. These tough economic times have us all watching our money a little closer. The beauty of these new gastropubs is the ability to really bring a distinct personality to their look, bar and menu. All done within a comfortable and cozy atmosphere and relatively affortable.

The BookHouse Pub, on Ponce de Leon in Midtown, is a perfect example of this hot new trend of gastropubs. Opened recently by the team that brought us MJQ, BookHouse Pub does not disappoint. The warm and inviting atmosphere is accentuated by an extensive beer selection and a surprisingly delectable and diverse menu. Let's take a closer look at what makes this spot so special.

Atmosphere: The pub itself was named after the Bookhouse Boys, characters from David Lynch's "Twin Peaks." However, you won't get that weird "Twin Peaks" vibe here. The pub is very intimate and warm, somewhat like a cross between an English Pub and a charming mountain lodge. The beautiful stained glass offers up just the right amount of light and color to the stone and rich wood walls and ceilings. There is even a stone fireplace in the middle of the room for those upcoming chilly winter nights. What makes this pub truly unique are the carved wood ornaments and artwork that are tastefully placed throughout the venue.

For a little change of atmosphere, you need to take a trip out to the gorgeous outdoor patio. This is not your ordinary patio. It is an exceptionally well done two-tier patio nestled between more wood and stone. The place is lit perfectly with tiny little lanterns giving this patio a romantic feel.

The Bar: Why do we love gastropubs so much? Well, it's the beer selection, of course. Although they are stocked with a full bar, it's the beer here that will get your attention. BookHouse Pub offers up 15 different beer selections on draft, each with its own unique taste and style. Take your pick from several types of stout or ale and maybe try something a little different. Some of the more notable selections include Dogfish 60min IPA, Weihenstephaner, Arrogant Bastard, Chimay Tripel (white) and Guiden Draak. Whatever you choose, the marriage of quality beer along with the warm wood and stone interior will certainly make you feel you are far away from Atlanta and enjoying a pint in a neighborhood European pub. 

The Food: Not to be outdone by the atmosphere and beer selection, here is where BookHouse Pub separates itself from some of the other gastropubs around town. At first glance you see all the wonderful comfort food appetizers, many of which are fried: from the pickles and green tomatoes to the slightly more unusual mac n' cheese. So, you can get your fill of comfy Southern fare here. However, a closer look unveils some delicious dishes. Not necessarily eclectic as far as the basic chicken, steak, seafood options, but more how they are prepared to make them BookHouse specialties. Be sure to ask your server or bartender to explain how some of these items are prepared, you will be pleasantly surprised.

The duck confit is an interesting appetizer. The boneless duck is served over a pumpkin puree and then accentuated with a spoonbread pancake. As I said, not your ordinary pub grub here. You can also find a sweet potato and spinach wrap, an artisan cheese plate or a charcuterie plate for something a little different. The main entrees include a miso glazed salmon, a 10 ounce pork chop, ribeye steak or just a simple veggie plate. If you are not in the mood for a full-on dinner entree, enjoy a grilled cheese sandwich, warm turkey sandwich or angus burger. Whatever your mood or appetite, it all goes down well with one of those tasty draft beers, doesn't it?