It is so easy to criticize Yard House for being a chain restaurant that serves lots of chain quality food. That being said, the anchor of the brand new Banks neighborhood, created by the consolidation of Ft. Washington Way, does a lot of things that most restaurants could never do, and it does them well, to boot. Prominently located on the corner of Freedom Way and Walnut Street near all of the major neighborhood attractions including Paul Brown Stadium, Great American Ballpark, The National Underground Railroad Freedom Center and the Smale Riverfront Park, Yard House has become my go to restaurant for large groups.

For example, last Saturday my friends and I celebrated the 30th birthday of one of my best friends. Trying to keep the gathering a secret was a way bigger challenge than trying to find a restaurant that would accomodate nearly 20 people. Not only were they able to accomodate us, they were able to do so quickly. Several of the group arrived at 5:15 to put our name in and by ten til six, we were seated. Did I mention that this was also the same night as the NCAA Final Four? Even with a marquee sporting event on the myriad tv’s, Yard House had no problem finding a table for our very large party. It didn’t seem to matter one bit that they don’t accept reservations.

In the event that you may have to wait for a table at Yard House, saddle up to their enormous bar and enjoy one of the 160 beers on tap. Yes, you read that correctly, ONE HUNDRED SIXTY BEERS! If you have heard of it (or maybe even if you haven’t) it is on tap at Yard House. That should be all that you need to know, but if for some reason you actually came to a restaurant to eat, the menu at Yard House is almost as extensive as the beer selection. Nearly every cuisine, every category and every trend is represented. Some of the basics, such as burgers, wings, and onions rings don’t set my palate on fire (especially the greasy onion rings), but other items are quite good. The small, tapas sized, street tacos are great, especially the Korean Pork Belly, as are the Truffle Fries, Sweet Potato Fries with Maple Bacon Dip, and the Chicken Nachos. The nachos are actually among my favorites in the city. If you are so inclined after gorging yourself on bar food and beer, the dessert menu is decent as well. The Smores Brownie, served in a mini cast iron skillet and big enough to share, is always a favorite at our table.

While it isn’t too difficult believe that Yard House comes from the good people at Darden Restaurants who brought you Red Lobster, Olive Garden and Longhorn, Yard House is a small step above those mid market mainstays. And Yard House boasts a stellar view of The Roebling Suspension Bridge and a short walk to Paul Brown or Great American. You can’t get that in the burbs.