Back in 1997, three friends—Tom Kowalski, Dave Blanchard, and Mike Gallagher—decided to build a quiet, conversational pub dedicated entirely to quality brewing and scratch-made food.
Decades later, that willingness to ignore corporate restaurant trends turned a modest Georgia tavern into an internationally recognized craft beer pilgrimage site.
Quick Bite – Brick Store Pub, Decatur, GA 🤯
Opening at a time when major commercial lagers dominated local tap lines, the founders made a strict policy to refuse macro-beers, soda fountains, and TV screens.
Operating out of a historic 19th-century brick building, the trio hand-built the wood bar, eventually added a dedicated Belgian beer bar upstairs, and built an underground cellar holding over 1,000 vintage aged bottles.
Co-founders Dave Blanchard and Mike Gallagher still keep the space independent and focused on community, preserving its status as a real mom and pops and hole in the wall success story.
The Local Atmosphere – Brick Store Pub, Decatur, GA 😍
The worn wooden floorboards, warm lighting, and low hum of conversation give the pub a comfortable, unhurried feel.
Neighborhood residents from nearby Oakhurst, Kirkwood, and Avondale Estates regularly fill the booths alongside Emory Village students and visiting beer enthusiasts.
The routine here is straightforward: pick a draft from the hand-drawn chalkboards, order a hot plate from the kitchen, and relax without the constant noise of modern sports bars.
Signature Bites – Brick Store Pub, Decatur, GA 😋
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Brick Store Burger: A thick beef patty grilled to order, served on a toasted bun with sharp cheddar, lettuce, and house sauce.
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Belgian Style Frites: Double-fried potato spears crispy on the outside, served with house-made garlic aioli.
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House-Made Soft Pretzel: A large, salted bavarian pretzel fresh from the oven, served with warm beer cheese dip.
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Fish and Chips: Flaky white fish dipped in light beer batter, fried crisp, and served with tartar sauce and frites.
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Brunswick Stew: A slow-simmered, traditional southern stew packed with pulled meats, corn, and tangy tomato broth.
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Pierogies: Pan-seared potato and cheese dumplings topped with caramelized onions and sour cream.
Takeaway Bite – Brick Store Pub, Decatur, GA 😎
The gamble three friends took in 1997 paid off by creating a timeless community anchor that prioritizes conversation over commercial gimmicks.
Exceptional draft lists, solid pub food, and a commitment to independent ownership make this Decatur Square institution a standout.
📍: 125 E Court Sq, Decatur, GA 30030
🕒: Mon-Thu: 11:30 AM – 11:00 PM; Fri-Sat: 11:30 AM – 12:00 AM; Sun: 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM