Though the beers have only flowed for 14 months, Meehan's
Public House Downtown offers such a worn-in, comforting vibe that
it's hard to imagine Peachtree Street without it. Filled with antiques and
unique finds from around the globe, the rich, malty atmosphere of this Irish
pub is almost as good as its delicious dishes. From hangover helpers to
high-end offerings, the Meehan's menu is an ever-evolving feast of pub
fare with urban flair. Says managing partner Ian Macken, "I love that people
are surprised by our menu."
Each month, the chef creates an abbreviated (and discounted) menu
of his favorite bites and latest crazes. For June, Executive Chef Jordan Wakefield gets fresh
with Summer staples. Featuring chilling combos such as an heirloom tomato and Tequila gazpacho with tempura fried jalapeno
and cilantro-lime sour cream and Gianduia
Chocolate Mousse served with homemade peanut butter ice cream and hazelnut
tuile, Meehan's
Downtown is the best place to beat the heat. Wakefield, who relies
heavily on local, season-centric ingredients, also added a few Southern twists
to his June menu. Light yet filling options include skewered Georgia Wild Coconut Shrimp (served
with a micro greens and pickled ramp salad and a pineapple-jalapeno relish;)
the Enchanted Springs Trout (plated
with a sauteed broccolini, shaved fennel and garlic roasted red potatoes topped
with a grain mustard vinaigrette;) and the Ashley
Farms Duck Breast (served atop a Hoppin' John risotto of local field peas,
Applewood bacon, Vidalia onion and a bourbon-maple gastrique.)
To provide the convivial mood found in long-loved neighborhood
pubs, Meehan's Downtown features low light, a hodgepodge of seating, reclaimed
120-year-old aged pine floors and architectural elements, exposed brick walls
and tons of conversation starters. A few favorite pieces include Mick and Patty
- two 80-year-old Gnomes - the Egyptian front doors and old Deliberator Table
(a tall, sturdy plank where the fates of men were decided for ages.) Sports
paraphernalia is proudly displayed throughout, particularly near the huge,
hi-def televisions, tuned to any game you choose. Whether you're looking to
grab a quick bite, a new go-to for date night or a place to relax with tons of
friends, Meehan's Downtown is the perfect space.
One last thought to nibble on; maybe the food is just that
delicious, but each time I leave Meehan's, suddenly my day is much better. Luck
of the Irish, perhaps?