Nestled in the classy downtown of Atlantic Beach, sits a burger joint that is more than meets the eye. Before heading there, I assumed it was just created by someone either named Poe or a person that loved po’ boys. Didn’t give much other thought to the name.
Ryan Adams and Beach Breezes
When I arrived I didn’t think about the name either. We sat outside in an adorable porch area with just the right amount of shade and open air. Oh yeah, I was there on a date, specifically a second date. A second date is that perfect thing where you are eager to know more about someone and everything is new and exciting – including learning what kind of restaurants you may get invited to and each other’s favorite foods.
It was the perfect February day outside. A nice Florida breeze and some bright Saturday sunshine. Even the music was adding to the atmosphere as Ryan Adam’s sang “To Be Young” in the background. I’m a sucker from some folk rock. Compared to a recent date at a loud, chaotic and oh-so-commercial Dave and Buster’s, this place was already winning. And then I saw the menu.
Evermore Eatin’
It was completely Edgar Allen Poe themed. Now Poe’s Tavern made sense. I glanced around the restaurant and saw the décor was a literary feast of tiny details like ravens and menu items referencing poems and characters. I write poetry, so finding myself at a poetry themed venue was a wonderful surprise – even if Poe isn’t my favorite writer. He is one of my people. Sure, I don’t love his mixture of jingle and dark themes. But I would be friends with him.
Burgers and Brews
My date and I ordered some afternoon beers and got settled in. I did spy a fun drink menu, but didn’t really explore it as I was more interested in seeing where the conversation would take us. We both ordered burgers and our plates showed up overflowing with fries. Everything was tasty. Although, maybe not quite as mouth-watering as the burgers at Lynch’s. But this isn’t Jax beach, Atlantic needs its own spot.
I popped inside to visit the restroom and noted how the rest of the place was bursting with the literary theme. I should’ve brought a book and gotten cozy in the corner. But it was date time.
We slowly finished our food and our friendly servers had us on our way. The restaurant is a quick jaunt from the beach so we checked out the ocean after.
My only caveats about this place would be that parking is a bit terrifying and the restaurant is so popular that you might be stuck waiting for a while. You have been warned.
For anyone taking an English major and burger lover on a date, this is a definite win.