Towne Center Tavern, the new restaurant concept by local Mellow Mushroom franchisees Shawn Ledford, opened in Evans, Tuesday evening, just in time for Masters.
The new eatery, housed in the two-story suite of the Meybohm building at Evans Towne Center — the former location of Stay. Social Tap and Table — has been in development at the space since last year.
“I really just kind of fell in love with this location, with the foot traffic being from [Evans Towne Center] Park and the performing arts center,” said Ledford. “I’d like to give just another casual dining option in Evans that’s maybe outside of the franchise.”
The menu is comprised of what Ledford refers to as elevated American pub food. Alongside mainstays cheeseburgers, hot dogs and wings, there are heavy sandwiches like the Steak Dipper, a hoagie stuffed with sliced ribeye and provolone, or the TCT Dipper, with meatloaf, onions and gouda on a Cuban roll; and hardy appetizers, such as fried shrimp or smoked baby back ribs.
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Between the full open bar and the walls decked with TVs to allow patrons to stay abreast of the latest big games, the new bistro is designed to offer the ambience of a sports bar.
Tuesday’s 4 p.m. launch was a soft opening, with the restaurant currently only serving dinner. After Masters week, the restaurant will be open for lunch as well, completing its robust selection by offering smoked barbecue.
“People know me in the industry here in Augusta, and kind of look forward to see what we’re going to put out. There’s been a lot of traffic and talk about it,” Ledford said. “But we’re really just kind of trying to make sure we have everything right before we go full blast to the public.”
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Towne Center Tavern is located at 7025 Towne Center Blvd. in Evans.
Skyler Andrews is a reporter covering business for The Augusta Press. Reach him at skyler@theaugustapress.com.
