Yesterday, Andy Kober signed the lease at 330 Edgewood Ave., in Atlanta’s Sweet Auburn Historic District. He plans to transform the 5,000 square-foot space, formerly the Eagle’s Nest Ministry church, into a watering hole called Black Sheep Tavern & Oyster Room. It is expected to open in mid-July.

Kober described his concept as “a timeless, classic tavern” with “dive bar approachability.” At the laid back Black Sheep, patrons will be able to “order specialty oysters with a can of Tecate or a bottle of High Life and not think twice about it.” “You don’t have to be a rich person to eat oysters,” he said.

Kober holds 15 years of experience in the hospitality industry, including managerial and bartending experience with Six Feet Under Atlanta and multi-unit concepts Mo’s Irish Pub and Brothers Bar & Grill. This is his first ownership venture.

Black Sheep with be “a tavern first,” according to Kober. The majority of its eight to 12 tap handles will feature local beers. He hopes to keep things simple with classic cocktails and boilermakers (a beer and a shot). “It won’t take longer than five minutes to make a drink,” he said.

Besides oysters, the Black Sheep food menu will hold a selection of appetizers, sandwiches and sides. Although the menu is not yet finalized, expect starters along the lines of fried tacos, wonton mozzarella sticks and queso with chips. Sandwiches will likely include fried bologna, Philly cheesesteak, fried peanut butter and jelly, as well as a burger “and a good bratwurst because I am from Chicago,” Kober said.

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