On Sunday, crowds braved the sweltering heat to support the newest kid on the East Dallas block, Goodfriend Beer Garden and Burger House. Matt Tobin, the owner of Vickery Park, and Josh Yingling, the bearded bar wrangler and manager, are the duo behind the vision.
The Construction Patio Party gave patrons a preview of what’s in-store for the nightlife and foodie scene later this summer. Hundreds came out to support the latest endeavor and the crowd consisted of some of the usual characters from the Henderson block, a mix of the Lakewood crowd, beer enthusiasts, fashionable tastemakers, and some furry four-legged friends.
The expansive space features a Texas-sized horseshoe shaped bar that leaves ample elbowroom, so you won’t waste anytime ordering up a drink and can get straight to the conversation. A massive tap system is going in place very soon and the finish out will accent all the striking wood surroundings.
Huge garage doors were drawn up as it brought in the sunlight for partygoers to bask in and provides easy access to the patio. The sprawling patio features cedar trellises, which are to be completed with covered awnings, so princesses like me will no longer be drowning in our own sweat. A personal favorite décor highlight is the gorgeous reclaimed wooden doors that welcome visitors with diamond shaped detailing.
Even after the free flowing beer, wine, and Jameson ran out after a few hours, Goodfriend was still a buzz as the crowd chilled out and conversed for a while longer because that’s the kind of spot it is. The good energy, endless possibilities and the cute tatted eye candy kept Sunday Funday rolling on. Not even the 104-degree temperature could stop good times from being had at Goodfriend.
While it’s off the beaten path of the normal Uptown bubble, that’s the essence of what makes the up and coming area revival of Casa Linda, East Dallas, and Lakewood exciting, vibrant, and filled with much personality and creativity. Many can see why entrepreneurs are flocking to the neighborhood for future expansions, as it has a laid back Austin feel with a Big D twist.
Goodfriend is sandwiched between to Good-to-Go Tacos and a future seafood joint to round it out the tasty burgers they’ll be serving up, so you’ll be able to have a delicious late night fix whatever your tastes may be. Start whetting your palate for Adult Happy Meals, think damn good naturally grass fed burgers and fries while washing it down with a perfectly paired cold craft beer. If that didn’t already bring a childlike smile to your face, the addition of Kool-Aid on the menu definitely will.
So I’ll be counting down the days until the doors officially open sometime in mid-August, but mark my words I know we’re going to be mighty fine Goodfriends.
Goodfriend Beer Garden and Burger House is located at 1154 Peavy Rd., Dallas, TX 75218. Scheduled to open in Mid-August.
