Buckhead Tavern coming to Pharr Road
Following the closure of short-lived flagship restaurant Bonehead's, Ron Barber has regrouped to open a new concept. "Destined as Atlanta’s own neighborhood 'Cheers',” Buckhead Tavern will open at the corner of Pharr Road and North Fulton Drive in the bottom of the Eclipse Condo building.
A reader of this blog hinted at the conversion plans a couple of months ago, but there had been no movement or permits filed. Interestingly, according to the city of Atlanta, the only permit filed for the restaurant was labeled as "sign business" on November 13th. Further investigation reveals this will be a halogen lit 29 square inch wall sign that is estimated to cost $2,500 and will be bolted to the wall.
With this being the only permit filed, it would seem as though no significant work will be done to change the restaurant from Boneheads to Buckhead Tavern.
Barber, who formerly operated Scenario (one of the most commented upon stories on this site ever), a hybrid restaurant, club and lounge at Chastain Square on Roswell Road, has brought in a familiar name to help run his new concept. Johnny Esposito, Jr., son of the late nightlife and entertainment leader and founder of the legendary Johnny’s Hideaway, Johnny Esposito, Sr. Barber and Esposito will reportedly jointly own the new concept with Esposito likely to run most, if not all, day to day operations.
"Buckhead Tavern will offer fresh, approachable tavern fare, handcrafted cocktails and a curated selection of beer and wine in addition to live entertainment Thursday through Sunday."
Buckhead Tavern will be helmed by Executive chef Nicole Christner along with her culinary team led by chef de cuisine Roberto Barth.
The restaurant's menu seems far from your typical tavern fare. Menu items are likely to include "Asian-braised short ribs, brined thick-cut pork chop with rosemary apple jus, truffled cauliflower/potato mash and broccoli rabe; and grilled salmon with brown sugar & mustard glaze, truffled cauliflower/potato mash and edamame succotash."
Plans call for the new restaurant to open December 18th.
Do you think Buckhead Tavern will succeed where Boneheads failed? Does the sample menu for Buckhead Tavern appeal to you? What menu item, amenity or drink must Buckhead Tavern have to get you in the door?
Please share your thoughts below.