First Look: Fadó Irish Pub, Midtown

933 Peachtree Street, Atlanta. 404-260-7910, fadoirishpub.com/atlanta-midtown.

Just in time for the annual St. Patrick’s Day parade, Fadó Irish Pub opened a second Atlanta location at the corner of 8th and Peachtree streets in Midtown. The surprisingly open and airy buildout was designed and constructed by the Irish Pub Company to express the many changes in pub culture since Fadó first opened in Buckhead in 1996.

The look: The space combines traditional and contemporary elements in an atmosphere that addresses its urban surroundings. Soaring windows offer views of the cityscape, while brightening up the dining areas, which include communal hightop tables, intimate booths and a small snug at the end of the bar, plus a private party room and two covered outdoor patios.

The scene: One recent Friday afternoon, the crowd was a mix of tourists and the business lunch bunch. One group was gathered at a long hightop, while another large party celebrated in the semi-private section dubbed the "Whiskey Room."

The food: The menu mixes Irish favorites, such as fish and chips ($15.95/$10.95), all-day Irish breakfast ($13.95), and corned beef and cabbage ($14.95), with reimagined dishes made with the likes of grass-fed beef and sustainable fish. Harp-battered fish tacos ($8.95) are topped with spicy red chili aioli, veggies and herbs. Oak-smoked salmon bites ($8.95) are perched on crisp "boxty" potato pancakes, with capers, onions, and horseradish sauce.

The drinks: Besides Guinness, Harp and Smithwick's on draft, the beer list ($5-$11) includes a good selection of Belgian and American craft offerings, including St. Bernardus Abt 12, Wild Heaven Invocation and Stone Smoked Porter. The whiskey program features two-ounce pours and flights with an array of Irish and bourbon selections, as well as a bit of single malt Scotch.

The extras: Check out happy hour food and drink specials, 4-7 p.m. Mondays-Fridays, with $5 snacks, cocktails, craft beer and wine. There are also late night and brunch menus. Every Saturday and Sunday, the bar opens early for broadcasts of European sports, such as soccer and rugby.