Page 48 - South Mississippi Living - August, 2024

LEISURE
The bustling Bay St. Louis beach has a new backyard island escape that’s the perfect family-friendly, pet-welcoming neighborhood spot to unwind and relax.
Just a short distance from the marina front in the Depot District, the Back Yard Beer Garden at The Blind Tiger Butcher Shop and Seafood Market opened on Memorial Day weekend at 126 Blaize Avenue. It features a 20-slot off-street golf cart parking lot along with a tiki bar vibe. The Back Yard also has 20 beers on tap and another 20 in bottles and cans, games and a play area with a large sandbox for young visitors, and a doggy romping space that was decorated by Café BoneJour, a Depot District pet boutique.
“It’s a safe place to enjoy yourself,” said managing partner Scott Sutherland. “It’s just like your own fenced-in backyard, so you don't have to worry about the kids or dogs running off where they are not supposed to be. We also have Quakes Ice Cream and freshly made smoothies for the kids so there’s something for everyone.”
And the plans for the beer garden won't be stopping any time soon. While bushwhackers, piña coladas, live entertainment, and baseball dominate this summer, Sutherland and owner Thomas Genin are already making plans for football season. Underway is a wall installation of four 72-inch televisions that will also serve a dual purpose.
“The plan is to be able to pull them apart and have four separate TVs or for special events like Saints games, push them together to make one giant screen so everybody can watch,” Sutherland said.
Also, in the works is an outdoor kitchen that will feature pub-style dishes and appetizers. Currently, people can get food from the adjacent deli and seafood market, where smoked tuna dip is a fan favorite. Patrons can order from the online menu and items such as the ever-popular smash burgers, Baytown hot chicken po'boys, or seafood and steak can be prepared, and ready and waiting when they arrive.
Laid back acoustic entertainment is set for Saturdays and Sundays, and the beer garden will host special events, such as barbecue competitions, pig roasts, and a fall Oktoberfest.
www.smliving.net | SOUTH MISSISSIPPI Living
story by Cherie Ward photos courtesy of
The Back Yard Beer Garden
48 | August 2024