Yard Bird - Menu

American style menu that can be some what cryptic with a lot of sauces, spices and phases that needed clarification from the waitress. (Who was very pleasant).... read more American style menu that can be some what cryptic with a lot of sauces, spices and phases that needed clarification from the waitress. (Who was very pleasant). Both of us got the Angus burgers and although the patty was very tasty it was quite bland and the chips were pretty ordinary. Accompanied by a very pathetic looking salad that would have been better if not on the plate. To the credit of the establishment the meals were quite prompt. There isn't much indoor setting but the outdoor area is quite large which is nice. Positively though the decor is very pleasant and this place would be a great spot for some drinks with friends unfortunately the meals just aren't up to scratch.

The Yard Bird seemed like a good option for dinner while we were on a weekend getaway in Bendigo on a hot summer's night. The restaurant is upstairs inside the... read more The Yard Bird seemed like a good option for dinner while we were on a weekend getaway in Bendigo on a hot summer's night. The restaurant is upstairs inside the beautiful heritage Shamrock Hotel, built at the time of the goldrush. The heritage setting and ambience takes a backseat once you enter into the Yard Bird, with the feel of more of a cowboy Western bar saloon. There's not much seating indoors with most of the tables out on the first floor open air balcony, giving a good view of Pall Mall, the city's main drag, down below. Vistas of the elegant heritage former post office and part of Rosalind Park beyond make for a pleasant setting.Service was warm and helpful. We ordered off the menu of mostly American Southern-style cooking: Cajun spice-rubbed blackened cod with lime aioli, chargrilled corn on the cob, jalapeno poppers and an Angus beef burger.The meal was not exceptional with the cod tasting like frozen rather than fresh fish. The jalapeno poppers made for good finger food but after a while, the mozarella stuffing felt too heavy. A fun setting for night out.