I'd probably put a path in and line it with ferns, unless it is dry, in which case, hostas. If you want ideas for the more open areas between the stairs and the garage, we need to see the whole space.

25 Ideas to Perk Up Your Side Yard

I would buy some sidewalk type concrete squares at one of the big box stores, and make a sidewalk from the back to the garage door, then either restore the grass, or make some planting beds on each side of it. Restoring grass the way it is, will never work, because it has become a walkway to the garage side door, and I doubt that will ever change.