Terrapin Tap Room

I will emphasize that the Terrapin is a smoking allowed bar in the midst of almost all smoke free dinning and drinking here on concourse D above the Food Network kitchen.
I arrived at 2:50pm and the place is maybe 15−20% occupied. Most travelers are going to shy away from a smoke filled restaurant, unless they are smokers. I really wanted to try their craft beer, so I braved the torturous smoke. In Maryland we baned smoking in public places a decade ago.
I ordered a 22oz Hopsecutioner (IPA, 71 IBU, 7.3%), VERY GOOD!
I also ordered the three cheese grilled cheese (which comes with bacon, turkey bacon, or ham) with bacon and cup of tomato soup. While the soup is comercial, it is outstanding tomato bisque (think Costco), and the grilled cheese (cheddar, provolone, and gouda) sandwich with it’s burnt cheese edges is not only killer, but also perfect to dip into the soup.
As a note, this restaurant is a partnership with but not run by Terrapin Beer company. Accordingly the actual owner is a smoker which explains why the restaurant is going against societal norms of non-​smoking restaurants.
A unique service they offer Cigars and Hookahs here as well.
I loved the craft beer and food, but will never give 5 stars to any place that allows smoking as it detracts from the total dining experience!!!

Walking into this place to get a craft beer is like going back in time. A disgusting wall of smoke hits you and suddenly you have no desire to eat or drink. Not sure what Terrapin is thinking as this is not a pleasant place to hang out and have some beer.

It’s really gross that they let people still smoke in the airport like it’s 1965. In a space that equates to a studio apartment with no open fresh air… that serves food. I’m not against smoking or smokers in bars for that matter, but this place is so small, it was just an unpleasant experience all-​around. We were looking to acquire some craft beverages (and those coveted Untappd badges!) on our layover, but felt like a bite to eat wouldn’t be a bad idea. We scoped out an unoccupied back corner near an air vent, but soon enough more smokers started pouring in, taking puffs between bites of their meals Boardwalk Empire style. We quickly finished up and declined to order any more drinks. Typically overpriced yet slightly above average airport food, fast service, very friendly staff. Be aware of the smoking policy.

I discovered this place completely by accident while traveling to Atlanta. I had a little time before my flight to grab a quick bite and discovered what appeared to be a hidden second story above Concourse D. I found two restaurants on this hidden deck, a Buffalo Wild Wings and the Terrapin Tap Room. Not particularly in the mood for hot wings, I made my way into this almost brand new operation. Note to non-​smoking (and smoking) travelers, you CAN smoke in this restaurant.
I quickly settled on a bratwurst, Memphis-​style, which means it was served topped with grilled onions, bacon, BBQ sauce, and cheddar. It was just the right-​size sustenance I needed to make it through my flight back home. I now know full well that if I don’t plan ahead, I will not get a chance to truly curb any hunger pangs with what qualifies as «in-​flight snack service» (and that you have to pay extra for!). I would’ve tried the beer, but Atlanta apparently still follows some antiquated blue laws when it comes to alcohol. The staff was gracious to explain that they could serve no beer on Sunday until after 12:30 p.m.
Nonetheless, I was pleased to be greeted so kindly and served so promptly. And I got a chance to try out a new spot. If I ever pass through again, I’ll check out the rest of the menu (and maybe an adult beverage if the timing is right).