When I moved to Atlanta in 2008, I spent a lot of time in the Virginia Highland neighborhood those first few years as a young professional on my 20s. I went to Manuel’s Tavern several times, even watched Barack Obama’s inauguration in the (extremely crowded) bar in January 2009! I love the history of this place and the entire neighborhood. I don’t get back much anymore so planned a date night for Sean and I to have a beer at Manuel’s and then dinner at the infamous Highland Tap, queuing up the restaurant for my New Bites series as it was our first time eating there!
In this current time period of generic, mixed-use facilities, regional chains filling trendy, loud industrial warehouses, and general “sameness” of everything new, it is terrific to still have places like Manuel’s and Highland Tap to soothe the soul, get comfortable and enjoy a lovely meal and satisfying drink that doesn’t cost a small fortune.
Several years ago, Manuel’s Tavern went through a renovation and it seemed might be at risk of getting torn down in favor of – can you guess? – a mixed use facility. 🙁 It didn’t happen but they did get to renovate and also downsize but overall the place has retained its history, memorabilia, charm, and vibe. It was great to revisit this gem.
I had been to Highland Tap before but just for drinks. It’s an old-school steakhouse in the basement of the building and has a good atmosphere. We didn’t have reservations on a Tuesday because we figured hey this is an old place, it’s probably not that popular anymore so we’ll be fine. Ha! We were pleasantly surprised to realize that not all of Atlanta has become industrial warehouse-loving hipsters. Definitely an older adult crowd. We got two seats at the bar, had amazing service, strong drinks (hello, gin martini with a sidecar), and delicious food.
We started with the smoked North Caroline Trout dip and it was SO good.
I had the Tap’s Famous Steak Oscar (left) with tenderloin medallion topped with lump crabmeat, Bearnaise and asparagus over mashed potatoes. SO good. Sean had the gorgonzola crusted prime rib with everything baked potato. Also incredible. We’ll definitely be back.
