McGowan’s Oakhurst Pub

CLOSED over some BS!

Great place to hang out with friends. Great Atmosphere — Good place to watch The Walking Dead! Great Craft on Draft!

McGowan’s has become my new local favorite place for brunch. My son and I have been a few times on Sundays, and we have always been happy. Each time, we have arrived about 10ish, and it has not been crowded, which is great for us.
When you arrive, you will see that this restaurant has an eclectic style. It is in a historic building in the Oakhurst Village. There are a mixture of random chairs and table types, ranging from leather couches, arm chairs, church pews and more. I love that because it feels like you are sitting in a living room :). My son likes to sit in the room with all the windows, so that is where we usually sit. There are two bars on either side of the building and some private rooms that are cozy and relaxed. I think it would be perfect for a group lunch, casual business lunch, book club, etc. I have been with coworkers and sat at a large table, and it was easy to have a conversation with everyone at the table. They have a really cool outdoor space with a fire pit that I have not taken advantage of yet, but I plan to one day.
The menu is typed on paper and clipped to a clipboard, which allows them to change up the menu every once in a while, and I think it gives the restaurant a low maintenance feel, which I appreciate. The wait staff have always been very nice and accommodating to us.

The place is very different. I didn’t know what to expect when I went, but I can assure you that what I saw was nowhere on my list of expectations. It is a house, gutted out, with very old ‘vintage’ (old) furniture scattered about. I would think that a place such as this would have servers in coat and tails and insist upon calling the guests madam or sir, but they are more punk rockish and calling you dude. The menu was kinda odd and if you ordered certain things, they were quick to tell you that you might not want to pick that one. The kitchen staff or decision makers do not listen to the feedback of the servers (which is weird, they actually get the feedback of the customers). I really love fresh made chips. I ordered theirs. They were black and burned. Because I really enjoy reading about things like this, I was explaining to them that one of the secrets to this is to soak the potatoes in water after slicing, I explained all of the science behind it. They were like — yeah, we know… we told ‘them’, but they act like we do not know what we’re talking about. I was sad. I really wanted some chips.
Unlikely to return, but it is a pretty cool place to go with some pals.

Come here if: you don’t want to be somewhere filled with hipsters, you are in a big group, and/​or you have kids with you.
This place isn’t my favorite, but they handle large groups well. I often come here with a big group to socialize. It works well for that: they can handle people coming and going, children, etc. The outdoor seating area is nice. We’ve never had a problem finding space on a Friday evening.
The food here is ok. I’ve tried the fish tacos and burger, and I feel like I have had better ones (for the same or lower price) somewhere else in Decatur. Similarly, the beer list is ok, but you can find a better selection at other venues nearby. I haven’t tried the cocktails.
Note: outside of Decatur this place would definitely be 4 stars!

Overall, good local bar — there aren’t a ton here! Good for large groups, being outside, and a nice view of the jazz in Oakhurst if the timing is right. I just drink here so I can’t say anything about the food. Bar snacks were pretty typical though according to my friends but if you’re looking for some eats I’m not sure this is the spot. Drink away!
Pros: outside bar, cool servers — I think I had Shawn/​Sean? could be wrong there, solid beer selection, dark and homey inside bar
Cons: seats literally gave me a bruise on my back. Yes I bruise easily but ouch. I got in a fight with my bf here — but not McGowan’s fault — my bf’s :) Décor could be improved outside.

Pretty awful. Where to begin? Watery, under-​seasoned queso dip, flavorless onion rings, silly hot shrimp po boy with fried scotch bonnets (Sysco fried shrimp on stale sub roll), wedge salad (forgot the dressing). The table outside was disgustingly dirty. The waitress made an attempt to clean, but we’re talking deep-​seated grimy dirty. We had to move our app plates out of the way so waitress could put down our entrees.
Saving graces: ok pork sliders, fairly good fried green tomato sandwich (they forgot to put the bacon on as ordered). The beer list was very good. Not a decent wine to be had.

McGowan’s is my all-​around Atlanta favorite destination for many, many reasons. Its appeal knows no bounds! Let’s discuss why it’s my go-​to for almost any occasion. In no particular order:
1. LOCATION: Tree-​lined Oakhurst Village is a lovely place to spend time. Its residents are down-​to-​earth yet urbane, just like McGowan’s.
2. ATMOSPHERE: the restaurant is at the top of a big grassy hill, under the canopy of serene old oak trees. The front patio is huge and inviting, unlike most of Atlanta’s parking lot patios. Inside is spacious, warm, cozy and inviting, and also doubles as an event space.
3. DRINKS: creative cocktails with fresh ingredients are wonderful, craft beers galore, and the wine list offers plenty of choice without being overwhelming. The wine prices are also mercifully affordable.
4. FOOD: the menu offers lovely meals that are simple and un-​fussy, yet creative and composed of fresh, top-​quality ingredients. The antipasto platter is fabulous and about half the price as other local restaurants. the cheeses are always carefully selected for a versatile and divine tasting. The salmon entrée makes my mouth water just thinking about it, and the desserts, paired with wine, prosecco or champagne, are the perfect end to an evening. The regular specials are always stellar, too.
5. SERVICE: always attentive, friendly and accomodating– never pushy or impatient.
6. EVENTS: regular beer, wine and liquor tastings are a treat. They are well-​organized and the tastings are much less expensive per person than anywhere else. This is also a beautiful venue to rent for a special event.
That about covers it. In short, run, don’t walk to McGowan’s– any day of the week! (You’ll probably find me there too.)

I like McGowan’s. Good neighborhood feel, there’s always a few beers on tap that I dig, and the food is pretty good for a bar. When the weather is nice, the patio and its fire pit can be very enjoyable. I’ve had occasional service issues like watching people who sat down 5 minutes after me get served drinks before our table got any, but even when harried the staff is friendly. I like the burgers, the coneys, and the pot roast. The mussels are gone from the menu now, but we go to The Shed or Ziba’s for mussels anyhow. I don’t think there are any bad dining experiences in Oakhurst.

I like to affectionately call McGowans — McGrubers (lovingly pilfered from my friend Gabe).
Have been to this spot numerous times, and have always had a great time.
The bartender is great, friendly, and knows his selections. Their beer selection is definitely solid.
Ive stuck with the brie, proscuitto and apple pressed sandwich with their side mixed greens salad. Always a winner. I would hoqever like to suggest having thinner slices of proscuitto for easier eating.
On my most recent visit I finally switched it up and ordered the salmon sandwich with fingerling potatoes. It was really good. Im a bog fan of fingerlings and these were cooked to perfection!
I highly suggest stopping by if you’re looking for a solid place in Oakurst.
Nice bar and great patio are a huge plus.

Fantastic place to enjoy a drink or a yummy meal outside in lovely Oakhurst! Loved it!
Here’s what’s great…
– Perfect patio! Large enough for groups and set among trees. Its really like you’re sitting in someone’s yard, which is fantastic. There’s also plenty of people watching opportunities with the fire department right across the street. Love the twinkle lights!
– Yummy eats! I went for a burger with cheddar cheese, sauteed onions, and extra pickles. Heavenly on a delicious egg bread bun and perfect with a side salad. My friend got a corn soup that was also delish! The mussels were perfection. I also thought the price point was dead on for the quality of food and beverage received.
– Great beer and wine selection.
– Friendly staff!
Here’s what’s not so great…
– Our waitress, bless her, was on her 2^nd night working there. It made for some very odd encounters (food coming out at different times, weird getting her attention for the bill, etc). I don’t fault her or McGowan’s for this (everyone has to start somewhere, right?) but just a word of warning to others to come to McGowan’s with a dash of patience.
– We seemed attacked by bugs at McGowan’s. Again, we chose to sat outside and its not like McGowan’s can do very much to control the elements (a giant moth landing in mussel broth and splashing around? Really not their fault, but gross all the same…). I would recommend citronella candles, giant pots of basil, or something to show some kind of pointed effort at reducing the bugs on the patio. As with any patio dining adventure, I’d recommend bug spray.

I love this place. It’s 2 minutes form my place and is always open when I want it to be.
The staff is very friendly and the beer selection is solid. This is coming from a beer aficionado (just ask my beer belly)
The food menu is also solid. Their sandwiches are unique and well made. Their main dishes are also very good. Have had the stew and salmon which have both been tasty.
My only complaint is the dearth of Tequilas but, hey, overall, I will still be coming back here.

Attempted to try this place last Friday. We stood in the entry way with staff barely missing us when they were walking by while we waited and waited for hostess. After we got tired of almost being run over we started to walk to one of the empty tables when magically someone appeared to seat us. Though there were several empty tables she placed us at the worst one which was right at the doorway of the entrance. We moved to the next empty table but was given only one menu to share. Flipped through the menu which involved pages of drinks to a few pages of food. It is basically the same menu Palate had. By then both myself and husband were done with the place.
Wont be going back! There are way to many good restaurants in Oakhurst and Decatur.

Quick update (and hoping mgmt sees this and corrects) — our last visit we tried the Cuban and the Prosciutto Apple sandwiches. Tasty, but not really how I like my sammys. The meat was too thick, chunky even, and not as described on the menu (it’s my understanding that the ONLY way to serve prosciutto is thinly sliced).
Alas, i found 2 things i won’t order again. But those fries… what is that, vinegar salt?! *om nom nom*
At least now I’ve narrowed the menu. See my previous review for recos. Or don’t, playa, i don’t give a what what. Ya heard me? *flashes pretend gang signs*

I have to give a big shout out to my peeps at McGowans.
Who stayed open during the crazy and ridiculous icy conditions?
Who served a near full menu until midnight?
Who now has Eric Awesome working at their bar?
and Who is in a historic cool art space?
I have been here with friends and by my lonesome several times since they reopened and refreshed themselves and really enjoy that this place is in my hood. The have a great patio and outdoor live music and art sales when the weather permits also. I know Oakhurst is sort of out of the way and hard to locate but check them out and be pleasantly surprised.
#yelp365 ¹²⁄₃₆₅

They’re trying to kill me. I should’ve known when the mussels I ordered smelled like an outhouse when placed before me that I shouldn’t have eaten them. I tried one anyway and when the server noticed my cringing face and asked if something was wrong, I realized my private moment wasn’t so private. I tried another one to confirm and yes, they tasted like ass. Avoid!
The fries were decent though, sprinkled with lemon pepper. They have a great beer list, too. However the service was a bit sketchy the night we went and sat on the patio. Meh.

McGowan’s is a new restaurant/​pub in Oakhurst next to the Solarium.
Here is my take:
Beer: really great beer selection with at least 20 beers on tap. Great variety of different brews from light to dark. They also have high-​gravity beers plus an IBU ranking on their menu, also known as international bitterness units (higher IBU = more bitter). Right now, they have a couple of Oktoberfest/​pumpkin blends. A friend also had their Spanish red wine (Borsao) and liked it a lot (at least I think so given that she had 3 glasses!). Of course, they also have a full bar.
Food: overall, pretty good with decent prices. I’ve had the parmesean panko encrusted chicken sandwich which was great (although I would suggest they add some kind of special sauce). Baked lasagna with eggplant was also good (although I needed to send it back to be cooked a little more since the middle was still cold). I wasn’t as impressed with the four-​way chili topped spaghetti — sounds great, but needed to be a little more messy. Was more like ground meat topping rather than chili. Nice cinnamon taste to it. All food is made in house, except desserts which are from a local bakery. Chocolate peanut butter cake was great.
Ambiance: really cool space. Identical in layout to the Solarium next door. Really large inside with 2 bars. To the left is a huge bar with plenty of seating, flat screen t.v.s and several tables mixed in. There are smaller, more intimate back rooms with tables for dining. To the right, there is another bar with couches and chairs for socializing. I’ve heard you can also rent out space for events. One of the best things about this place is the large outdoor patio area with coal fire pit in the middle. There is mood lighting above the tables/​chairs. Very romantic.
I’ve been to McGowan’s several times now with different groups of friends. Each time my friends have been here for the first time, they comment on how nice the place looks and ask why I would pick such a «fancy place» to go for drinks. The place is really nice, but then when you look at the menu, you are pleasantly surprised that the prices are very reasonable — no more than any of the Downtown Decatur bars.
Service: generally really good. Our most recent waiter was very friendly. If he didn’t know something, he asked.
So, I think this place is an excellent alternative to the craziness of the Brickstore and Leon’s in Downtown Decatur. Really nice atmosphere, great beer, decent food and good prices. A great combination. This is a place I would give a 5 star rating, but since the food could use some work, I give it a 4… really would give a 4.5 if I could. I definitely would recommend that you consider visiting this place.

My husband and I went there, to try it out, and because I’d always wanted to go to Palate since it has such a beautiful deck.
UNFORTUNATELY (or maybe fortunately for them), I won’t be going there ever again.
step 1: walk in, and we’re seated outside
step 2: wait for waitress to acknowledge our presence, which takes 10 minutes. Add wild screaming toddlers and blaring 80’s music to the mix, and it’s a hot night in hell.
step 3: waitress takes order, brings my drink within 10 minutes, and hub’s drink in 15
step 4: get food, which was the highlight of the evening for me. I ordered the pasta provence, which is linguine, shrimp, mussels and scallops for $ 13.50. Not bad! And quite tasty.
step 5: waitress comes, ask for check, and wait another 20 minutes, and then another 10 for her to bring back the card.
Overall, if the service, the flies (it’s Oakhurst in September), screaming kids running wild, 80’s music and the raining bark on our food hadn’t been there, it would’ve been a great night out!

Okay — I’m sure that I experienced an off-​night from these guys.
I loved Palate a lot and was kinda bummed to see that they had been subsumed, Borg-​like, into McGowan’s. However, change can be good, right?
So we go in and are greeted by tits — tits EVERYWHERE! Now, I’m no prude and I like tasteful nudes, but these were paintings of comic-​book-​like women that were either weird and sensationalistic («Look! I have nipples!») or just weird/​stalkeresque («I am a naked woman covered in slasher-​like red pain that looks like blood.»).
I know that art is in the eyes of the beholder, but this was the vibe that this beholder felt walking in.
This review isn’t about the art, however — it’s about the place. I won’t use the former place as a reference point because it’s now N/​A, but I was pretty disappointed with the seating arrangements that we were presented — the table was either too high or our two chairs were too low. Either way, I felt like a 3 year old at Sunday dinner and felt an urge to throw things on the ground to see if a willing adult would be willing to pick them up.
Seriously, pick tables and chairs that are matchy/​matchy.
Think Garanimals.
The worse part is coming up — we order one (1) glass of wine, one (1) cup of coffee and one (1) chocolate crème brûlée. Truth — how long (on a moderately busy night) should that take?
10 minutes?
20?
Can I hear 30?
I see someone in the corner at 35! Do I hear 40?
SOLD! At 45 minutes!
Now, mind you, I SAW that crème brûlée in the case when we walked in — I saw it!
What happened?
Our server, who I really think had her heart in the right place, brought us the wine and coffee out in about 5 – 10 minutes.
But then, we just froze.
We would get periodic updates — once it was even reported that the the missing piece of our little dinner party was (as we spoke) being seared by the little torch. Another 10 or 15 minutes went by.
Okay, I won’t drag it out any more. Our server offered us another dessert (I picked a piece of Key Lime Pie [which was good]) and offered to take it myself from the cooler to our table) to compensate us and as it was arriving to the table our naught crème brûlée decided to make an appearance (perhaps we should have named that crème brûlée ‘Elvis’ for all of the sightings we got). The guy who brought it over kind of made light of the situation and I think our server really tried to make things right, but we were there about 40 minutes longer than we had planned.
I hope we go back and I hope the wrinkles are a little more ironed out — it’s a great venue and the food and booze menu looks really interesting.

I can’t explain how excited I was when I wandered into Palate last night and discovered McGowan’s was finally open. The new menu is a great mix of the old Palate classics (mac n’ cheese, please!) and new pub fare. I tried the chili cheese coney in addition to my usual mac n’ cheese. I wish my eyes hadn’t been bigger than my stomach because it was so good. The fries were equally impressive. Lemon pepper fries standard? Really? I’m in love.
I sat out on the patio, but the interior looked great. They have fancy TV’s hanging over the bar and the (sort of) open kitchen. I’m not a big beer drinker, but I’m sure my beer loving daddy will enjoy the multitude of beer options both on tap and in the bottle. I can definitely see myself spending way too much money and time here all through fall.