One of the newer options on Downtown’s lunching landscape is a Southern staple not prominently found in other area eateries: barbecue.
Underbelly opened June 13 at 113 E. Bay St. between Bay and Newnan streets, with owners and partners Emily Moody and Cameron Beard renovating and reimagining the former Ivy Ultra Bar space. She handles the décor, business and artistic elements, he handles the sound, stage and other technical aspects behind the business, she said, which makes them a great match.
Underbelly features live music, shows and, of course, 32 different beers on tap, but also it’s the simple food fare that patrons aren’t overlooking for lunch that begins at 11 a.m.
The menu, for now, features pulled pork sliders and an assortment of wood-fired flatbreads.
“Right now we are doing pretty well and looking to get the word out,” Moody said. “We’re also trying to expand more on the catering side.”
They’ll also be expanding the menu and overall build out.
Moody said she has signed a lease for the space above the business and would build stairs, add a balcony to overlook the stage area and increase seating for loungers and diners alike.
She said she hopes to expand the menu with “good old Southern food” that includes beef and buffalo sliders and other barbecue-related items.
In the meantime, Moody said she has enjoyed becoming a part of the Downtown scene following years of owning a Riverside business and looks forward to becoming part of the area’s fabric.
“I love it here,” she said.
The diners from all business backgrounds are digging the pulled pork, too, and even staying for a midday beverage or two before heading back to the office.
“You would be surprised,” she said then laughed. “But good for them.”
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