Daniel B.
Yelp
I don't know the history of Steinbeck's, but one of the signs outside says it's been around since 1902. Wow. This is a small ale house located in Oakhurst, a historic neighborhood in southwest Decatur. The inside has seating for only about 30 folks (9 at the bar), but the dog-friendly patio outside has space for about 24 more. The patio looks like a great spot for when the weather is nice. There's one TV inside for sports viewing.
While Steinbeck's has the look and feel of a traditional Irish pub, the food menu features a variety of cuisines including American Southern (buttermilk fried chicken), Asian (Szechuan eggplant), Mexican (fish tacos), and in-between (Vietnamese chicken tortas). We came here to try the restaurant's Double-Double burger, which was prominently featured on the cover of Atlanta Magazine's January 2015 issue covering the 20 best burgers in/around the city. Steinbeck's burger landed at #8 on the subjective list. Here's a picture I took of the impressive stack: http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/steinbecks-decatur?select=6QrqhtrKmlj62DSaA7MdKg#6QrqhtrKmlj62DSaA7MdKg.
I was told by server Amy the burger consists of two 4-ounce patties (equaling about half a pound total), shredded lettuce, cheese, tomato, bacon, and housemade "Million Island" dressing. This is Steinbeck's take on the In-N-Out burger right down to the name (Double-Double) and description ("Animal style"). The only exception is Steinbeck's version has bacon and In-N-Out's doesn't. Million Island dressing is Steinbeck's version of In-N-Out's spread, which is similar to Thousand Island dressing.
When all is said and done, Steinbeck's Double-Double is a pretty darn good burger, regardless of emulation. I've had my fair share of In-N-Out burgers (http://www.yelp.com/list/in-n-out-burger-daly-city) and, while tasty, I'm not as fervent a fan of them as so many are. Steinbeck's medium-cooked patties are lean, meaty, slightly juicy, and wonderfully flavorful. The lettuce is crisp and the sliced tomato ripe. The strips of bacon are thick and chewy. It all makes for one satisfying and filling burger. Funny enough, the burger reminds me most of McDonald's Big Mac (Hey, I love a good Big Mac every now and then!), like a bigger, gourmet, homemade Big Mac. It must be the Million Island spread.
The burger is $9.50. Other menu items range from $5-8 each for appetizers and snacks and $10-20 each for entrees. Other items I've tried include the Green Finger Chilies, Chinese Breakfast, and Crispy Szechuan Eggplant -- all good.
The Green Finger Chilies are a fun, different kind of bar snack. Made with soy and black vinegar, the bite-sized chilies are definitely Asian in flavor and are mildly spicy (basically non-spicy to me). Good flavor.
I was surprised to see Crispy Szechuan Eggplant on the menu. Steinbeck's rendition of the Tasty China/Gu's Bistro favorite is quite respectful and I believe the only Szechuan eggplant you're going to find on this side of town. It's appropriately made with red peppers and chili powder along with fresh cilantro. Crispy and savory. I recommend.
Robin S commented to me the Chinese Breakfast reminded him of Korean bibimbap (mixed rice). I can see why. The Chinese Breakfast is a bowl of white jasmine rice topped with an egg (sunny side up), roasted pork belly pieces, and wilted leeks. This original Steinbeck's creation has all the makings of comfort food. Mix everything together and enjoy. There are adequate portions of glistening pork belly, plenty of chopped leeks, and a hint of soy in this gratifying bowl of food. My only critique is overall, the dish is a bit too oily.
The staff is friendly and accommodating.
You can park for free in the attached parking lot or on the street.