Courtesy of Breaker Breaker
In warmer months, Atlantans flock to Breaker Breaker via the Beltline, filling tables and bars with convivial groups noshing on fried shrimp and downing frozen margaritas. On the roof at Florida Man, the 21-and-up crowd gathers for conversation, cocktails, and bites on weekend nights. With the majority of Breaker Breaker’s footprint being outdoors, it’s natural that business would slow during the winter. This year, owners Johnny Farrow and Alex Brounstein are capitalizing on the more leisurely period with a new (temporary) concept and menu from executive chef Max Hines.
Courtesy of Breaker Breaker
“We have such a great culinary team. We want Max to show off his chops,” Brounstein says. “We can’t do that as easily in the summer when we are trying to serve 200 tables.”
By introducing a Northeastern comfort tavern theme—called Long Haul Lounge at Breaker Breaker—focused on the interior dining room, the duo hopes to create a more elevated dining experience including both Breaker Breaker favorites and new gourmet offerings.
“Snowbirds go south for the winter. We’re already in the South, so we’re going north to New England for the winter,” Farrow says.
Courtesy of Breaker Breaker
In addition to the Captain’s Platter, fried shrimp basket, and Breaker (grain) bowl, there will be a lobster roll, steak frites, and clam chowder. Gone are the shrimp burger, fish melt, and smoked fish dip; instead, look for a beer-battered cod sandwich, spinach and artichoke dip, tomato bisque with a grilled cheese sandwich, and a chicken Caesar wrap. There will be a seafood pasta and three variations of piccata.
“We want to give people a little warmth with more comfort food,” Brounstein says.
The drinks, too, will evolve, as they won’t need to be made quite as quickly. The new beverage menu includes a pistachio foam espresso martini and a maple bourbon hot toddy. For those wishing for sunnier days, there’s a spicy passionfruit margarita and bubbly basil limoncello. The drinks will be served in glassware, as opposed to the plastic cups Breaker Breaker traditionally utilizes. Nautical decor will be added as well.
“We don’t have the BeltLine masses in the winter, so we’re able to become more thoughtful in terms of presentation and deliver a higher-end experience,” Brounstein explains.
Long Haul Lounge will be open through February.
Courtesy of Breaker Breaker
Less than a week before Long Haul launches, on November 28, rooftop bar Florida Man will transform into Festiveman for the holiday season (through New Year’s). Featuring over-the-top Christmas decorations—think lights, ornaments, and tinsel a plenty—it will serve “greatest hits” from Long Haul, such as the lobster roll and hot toddy, plus a hot buttered whiskey and Jello shots.
“It’ll have a more focused menu with small bites meant for groups and some extra drink options,” Farrow says.
Not into the holiday spirit? The “I Wanna Be Sedated” (painkiller) cocktail is for you.
