In a market of new concepts, the ones that are successful are expanding and Sam Fox’s The Yard at Farmers Arts District Tempe is the latest to truly make its mark. The new location that includes Culinary Dropout is the new hot spot for lunch, dinner and drinks.
With its wharf-meets-warehouse look, this indoor/outdoor compound of food, drinks, yoga, workouts and fun is the hub for lunch as well. While the drinks and the Game area are not the spotlight, the food, service and overall appeal is perfect for that client lunch, customer meeting or colleague hangout. The menu is the same day or night and is a gourmet take on pub grub for sure. Antipasti’s to start are traditional combos with a twist. They are a bit of a “build your own” with delicious meats, cheeses and “snacks” to accompany. Soups and starters are plentiful and can certainly be filling enough for a full meal. The Soft Pretzels and Provolone Fondue is a must-have. The creamy cheese over the fresh-baked pretzel rolls is phenomenal.
Salads and sandwiches are a best bet for most, with options that include the Gorgonzola Chicken Salad made with smoked almonds and shaved apples in a sour cherry vinaigrette. The Turkey Pastrami is refreshing, complete with Swiss cheese and coleslaw on a pretzel bun. Or try the Grilled Cheese Sliders with bacon and tomato for a nice, crunchy delight. On the lighter side, try the Seared Tuna Salad made with wasabi peas and cashews tossed in a ginger vinaigrette.
The ambience is fun and eventful to say the least. The Yard, comprised of game and lounge areas under a big roof, is a casual hang-out space during lunch. The space is large and quite fun with a group. At lunch, the area is vastly empty, but certainly OK to schedule something for the office or a team event. Well-designed with a hip industrial appeal, the space is vibrant and comfortable. The service is professional and quick, as is true at all Fox Concept establishments.
Culinary Dropout and The Yard
149 S. Farmer Ave., Tempe
(480) 240-1601
