Restaurant opening:
Magnolia Tap & Kitchen fuses a unique combination of old time saloon meets Southern comfort food with a casual style found only in San Diego. Set to officially open on July 12-13th, Magnolia Tap & Kitchen revamps the former Bareback Grill’s downtown location on E Street.
The name originates from a former saloon located a stone’s throw away on 6th and E in the 1880’s. Old-time newspapers line the bathroom while the main dining area houses a fireplace and warm wooden shelving.
The modern comfort food is made the old fashioned way – handcrafted from scratch. Head of the house, Christopher Reid explains the importance of using local and organic goods for simple flavors. Some of the produce suppliers include local Chesapeake Fish Co. and artisanal farm Brandt Beef. The menu focuses on Southern treats with standouts like the dry rub chicken wings and a pecan pie with a Bourbon laced whipped cream.
For libations, the house made fresh juice is made daily for refreshing drinks like the watermelon lemonade. The nostalgic yet inventive cocktail menu has a smooth Magnolia Sundown that has vodka, St. Germain, Chambord, lemongrass, and cucumber. The imbibe list also includes several California wineries and local breweries such as Iron Fist and Ballast Point.
While the interior aims to be casual and old time saloon, the open bar and patio has an altogether different feel. It takes one back to a time of dining on Grandma’s porch while eating some of her home cooking and sipping on a fresh batch of sweet tea. The duo of saloon and Southern seems to be a likely and unique winning combo at Magnolia Tap & Kitchen.
The Foodie Fashionista 