Beer Garden Review 2…read more
Hospitality isn't complicated. It's making people feel like guests instead of table numbers.
And Mid City Beer Garden didn't skip that part. In fact, the way we were treated says more about the character of this place than the food ever could.
I use a cane, so I now have three legs--well, four if you count my beautiful husband!
After our HVAC decided to abandon us in the middle of this heat wave, we figured the best way to beat the temperature was to escape to Mid City Beer Garden in Baton Rouge for some cold drinks, good food, and hopefully a little relief.
When we walked in, we were warmly greeted. I immediately noticed the high seating and explained my situation, asking if a booth was available. The beautiful young lady greeter checked and told us it would be about a 15-minute wait.
After just escaping our sweltering house, we weren't sure we wanted to wait that long. Then the handsome young gentleman greeter said, "Let me make sure."
About five minutes later, he came back with the best news: "We have a booth for you!"
That small gesture meant a lot. They didn't simply tell us to wait--they took the time to find a comfortable seating option for me. We immediately felt welcomed and appreciated.
We visited in the evening, and the atmosphere was exactly what we needed. The evening vibe was spot-on--industrial meets modern, softened by greenery, warm lighting, string lights, and neon. Think laid-back European beer garden, but effortlessly cool. At night, the place really came alive without losing that cozy, inviting feel.
Beer lovers, don't skip the main bar. The custom tap wall is a total vibe, with a solid lineup of beers and plenty of personality.
Our waitress continued that same level of hospitality. She was attentive, friendly, and provided that kind of service where the smile feels genuine rather than part of the uniform.
But then came the moment that really impressed me. I ordered a 10 oz. Sapporo, but somehow received a 16 oz. I didn't even notice the difference. When we were getting ready to pay, our waitress came over and told us about the blunder-- noting we would only be charged for the 10 oz.
Now THAT is honesty.
We've been to establishments where billing mistakes seem to mysteriously work in the restaurant's favor. So having someone actually point out an error that benefited us--and make sure we weren't overcharged--was refreshing.
Speaking of the food...
We ordered the shrimp po'boy. It certainly looked loaded with shrimp, but was skimpy and unfortunately, it fell short for us. The shrimp was flavorful, but overcooked. The bread was thick and dense, so I eventually found myself eating only the shrimp and leaving the rest of the sandwich behind.
The fries were tasty, but they didn't have that hot, fresh-out-of-the-oil crispiness we were hoping for, so we only ate a few.
Would I order the shrimp po'boy again? Probably not. I'm only speaking for the two people at our table--and we're not professional food critics, just two hungry people with opinions!
Now, the real highlight of our visit...
We met the most beautiful soul.
My husband suddenly says, "Look, there's a really tall young man sitting behind you."
I turned around, stood up, and said, "My husband said you're really tall. Can I take a picture with you?"
He was so sweet and gracious and took a picture with me. And let me tell you--that absolutely made my night!
I told him he was beautiful, and he responded, "You are beautiful too!"
I disagreed with him, of course.
He looked at me and said, "No, ma'am. You are beautiful."
Well... alright then! You win.
Naturally, I had questions.
I asked if he played basketball.
"Yes, for Southern University."
I asked his jersey number.
"Number 22."
I told him, "Well, I'm coming to see you play!"
And that young man gave me one of the biggest, brightest smiles I've ever seen on a basketball player.
So, y'all... if you get out to Southern University and A&M College this season, go show #22 some love and cheer him on.
Who knows? We might be looking at a future NBA champion!
We had a wonderful evening at Mid City Beer Garden. Eventually, we went back home to a house that had finally cooled down and enjoyed the rest of our evening loving on each other.
Thank you, Mid City Beer Garden, for giving us a place to escape the heat, relax, laugh, eat, drink, and make a memory.
And most of all...
Thank you, Number 22, for honoring an old lady's wishes.
Some nights are about the food.
Some nights are about the atmosphere.
And some nights, you just happen to meet a beautiful souls who makes the whole evening unforgettable.
