Like I said, it's an unconfirmed rumor of a new Irish pub around 5 points. The people that told me said it's a friend of theirs, but they're keeping it pretty tight lipped. Has anyone heard anything else?
Oh man...I'm kinda excited already.
If true and if it is authentic, then this is great news!
Heard it is going into the old Kentucky Leather Works location on Lomax.
The Pub is called Steamworks English Pub, i went there yesterday and it was great, they've got an English pub menu with traditional items like scotch eggs, cottage pie,etc and also an American Bar menu. I had the Guinness cheese and bacon dip which was quite good. Pretty much the whole menu is made from scratch including the sausages. The beer selection was decent, though there's no english beers on tap but i'm sure that will change. The atmosphere is typical pub, long bar, a couple of booths and some billiards tables. There's also a space in the back for a DJ or live band, on tuesdays they have rockabilly. All in all i think is a great addition to 5 points and hopefully everyone will support them.
Location?
Quote from: Bike Jax on June 21, 2008, 01:30:41 PM
Heard it is going into the old Kentucky Leather Works location on Lomax.
it's on lomax in between the Scribes Cafe and Sake House, they have large British, Irish and one other flags flying from the awning
I'm glad to hear about this, but from what I've read, aside from the food, it doesn't really sound like a traditional English pub....still, I'm sure it'll be well received as a positive addition to the area.
Enough of these damn pubs and sushi places, we need more diversity. Let's get some Thai food in here as well, and others.
Quote from: reednavy on July 31, 2008, 08:39:01 AM
Enough of these damn pubs
I like pubs. What other pubs are around? Just any bar that serves beer is not a pub to me. I haven't checked this place out yet, but I will do so sooner than later.
YES! There arent any Irish pubs in Riverside, I say BRING IT!!!! and pour me a Guinness STAT!
Laura Capitano review...
The Florida Times-Union
August 1, 2008
An after-dark void is filled in Five Points
By LAURA CAPITANO
The Times-Union
Steamworks opened last month with a clear mission in mind: Give those kids on the Five Points scene somewhere to dance again.
Sure, they can eat there, too, as Steamworks serves British-type fare from 11 a.m. to 2 a.m. daily. But Steamworks is more in touch with its nightclub side.
While telling me about the concept behind the dance spot-British pub combo, manager Mike Kennedy spoke fondly of the clubs of yore that inspired Steamworks - The Art Bar and The Milk Bar. The closing of those places, with their preferences for a not-so-mainstream soundtrack, left a perceptible void in after-dark Jacksonville.
Steamworks is reaching for that niche market of the darkly dressed, tattooed set with their distinct, anti-Top 40 tastes. And that crowd is hearing the call. With an 18-and-up policy, the pub skews young and draws from the neighborhood pool of Riverside hipsters. You'll find plenty of extreme hairstyles and goth-inspired fashion statements. The pub has even become the meet-up spot for the Critical Mass midnight bicycling club on Thursday nights.
Even on a modest Tuesday, the bar's rockabilly night, customers fill the bar stools and tables - both the ones for eating and the ones for shooting pool or smashing air hockey pucks. Rockabilly was a cool little theme to behold, with lady bartenders dressed in Bettie Page-meets-Evanescence attire, and some customers dressed the part, too, with muscle shirts, back-pocket bandanas and wallet chains. I even saw a Galaxy 500 parked outside. Music for the night was divided among rockabilly, rock and punk rock.
Steamworks keeps its gaming tables at the front of the space, where the music is quieter; the dance floor and DJ booth await in the back, behind the L-shaped bar and a row of booths.
Not only is the sound different from front to back, but the look is, too. The pub portion follows an orangey-peach color scheme and is well-lit (perhaps a little too well-lit for a nightspot) with about a dozen Tiffany-style lamps. The dance space is dark, with more of an unfinished, warehouse feel. Disco ball? Check.
Thursday and Friday nights feature an indie rock DJ and are the club's biggest dance nights. Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays feature "eclectic" music, which the pub describes as "cutting edge, Euro-synth-pop, college rock, old & new wave" sounds. Meaning, you'll probably hear some Joy Division and Siouxsie and the Banshees.
Steamworks serves mostly beer, the cheaper the better as far as its customers are concerned. Oddly, the pub only has a couple of British beers so far, and guests opt more for Natural Light and PBR can specials - both under $2. You can also get a variety of fun soft drinks such as Hawaiian Punch and Stewart's sodas, as well as a couple of cheap wines.
Foodwise, I was disappointed - the Scotch egg was surrounded by dry, bland pork instead of tasty sausage. And you wouldn't think anything could go wrong with cheese-bacon-Guinness dip, but it was watery and weird, and no one in my crew liked it.
But people aren't there for the food. People are there for the cheap beer and decent music, and Steamworks has those covered.
laura.capitano@jacksonville.com, (904) 359-4370
http://jacksonville.com/tu-online/stories/080108/enc_311460799.shtml
this is not a pub.... English or Irish... just because it has the word pub in it's name does not make it one
went there last night with some friends after Wall Street... no cover charge on Thursday night but they did
make us wear wrist bands. wtf? is it a club or a pub. we got there at about 9:30 or so
they did have air hockey which was nice and $4 drafts of shock top served in a plastic pint cup....
other than that, very little beers on draft and no imports
the bathrooms are disgusting
after a while the disco lights in the back room started going for dancing... they serve an array of sodas and other non-alcoholic beverages. basically seems like it is going to be a teen club to be honest. they also have two small (non-regulation) size coin pool tables
I probably wouldn't mind the place if I was 21 and not expecting a "pub".
Anyone who goes here expecting something like Fly's Tie or how the old London Bridge used to be, is going to be very disappointed.
Still had a good time b/c I was out with my friends, but I won't be back there.
Also as an FYI - credit cards are a $10 minimum but they don't tell you that until AFTER you have walked in the door and ordered 2 $2 beers...
The giveaway of a lack of authenticity is the presence of both English and Irish flags. This should never happen.
Sad news
So it's not an irish pub. My mistake. Not really a pub at all, but I did check it out last night. As an aging wanna-be hipster who doesn't dress the part, I'd say this place is much needed in Riverside. Your only late night options nearby are Starlite, Raglands & Wall-Street. So what's left for today's art-barish college age crowd? Not much else. Pearl is more mainstream than ever, TSI is an indie-rock fashion show and Eclipse has been picking up the slack lately in this area.
Don't go in expecting a pub atmosphere, there's an airhockey table that echoes obnoxiously off the exposed pipe ceiling and narrow walls , not much in the way of imported beers and a dance floor in the very back with a dj booth along the far wall. Overall though, I think it's a perfect fit for Riverside as I remember it being more vibrant & grungy as a youth. My generation who frequented the milkbar & artbar back in the 90's and early part of this decade are turning or have already turned 30 by now, so this place is adding some much needed youthful energy to the area. Plus, they do have some great drink specials.
I'll leave the food reviews up to someone else though :D I like to be optimistic and support new businessses when they open up in the hood and let them prove themselves over time.
Quote from: stephElf on August 01, 2008, 10:31:06 AM
Also as an FYI - credit cards are a $10 minimum but they don't tell you that until AFTER you have walked in the door and ordered 2 $2 beers...
Merchants accepting Visa or MasterCard credit or debit cards are not allowed to set a minimum amount for using the card; that is a violation of the merchant agreement.
If they get caught they won't be accepting any credit cards. Reporting them is always an option.
Quote from: stephElf on August 01, 2008, 10:31:06 AM
this is not a pub.... English or Irish... just because it has the word pub in it's name does not make it one
went there last night with some friends after Wall Street... no cover charge on Thursday night but they did
make us wear wrist bands. wtf? is it a club or a pub. we got there at about 9:30 or so
they did have air hockey which was nice and $4 drafts of shock top served in a plastic pint cup....
other than that, very little beers on draft and no imports
the bathrooms are disgusting
after a while the disco lights in the back room started going for dancing... they serve an array of sodas and other non-alcoholic beverages. basically seems like it is going to be a teen club to be honest. they also have two small (non-regulation) size coin pool tables
I probably wouldn't mind the place if I was 21 and not expecting a "pub".
Anyone who goes here expecting something like Fly's Tie or how the old London Bridge used to be, is going to be very disappointed.
Still had a good time b/c I was out with my friends, but I won't be back there.
Also as an FYI - credit cards are a $10 minimum but they don't tell you that until AFTER you have walked in the door and ordered 2 $2 beers...
What? Were you going in expecting it to be Club Paris, lady? "the bathrooms are disgusting" I don't remember you complaning about how gross the bathroom were at the milkdome when that bouncer ripped you off the out of order toilet that night Fred Durst was there and you shouted at him that you wanted to....please him in a special way :D. I know you're used to your hookah lounges and upscale restaurants, so try to go easy when giving your opinion on a place that's geared towards a younger crowd. I will give you one thing though, the pub designation will throw alot of people off as the London Bridge, Kings Head & Fly's Tie do hold as true to the "pub" atmosphere as you will find in these parts.
But back to the bathrooms, I don't think clean bathrooms are allowed in 5 points, in fact the men's bathroom at Steamworks is severely lacking graphite & obscene/philosophical writings on the wall. We need someone to get on that, stat!
Quote from: David on August 01, 2008, 10:54:44 AM
So it's not an irish pub. My mistake. Not really a pub at all, but I did check it out last night. As an aging wanna-be hipster who doesn't dress the part, I'd say this place is much needed in riverside. Your only late night options nearby are Starlite, Raglands & Wall-Street nearby. So what's left for today's art-barish college crowd? Not much else. Pearl is more mainstream than ever, TSI is an indie-rock fashion show and Eclipse has been picking up the slack lately in this area.
Don't go in expecting a pub atmosphere, there's an airhockey table that echoes obnoxiously off the exposed pipe ceiling and narrow walls , not much in the way of imported beers and a dance floor in the very back with a dj booth along the far wall. Overall though, I think it's a perfect fit for Riverside as I remember it being more vibrant & grungy as a youth. My generation who frequented the milkbar & artbar back in the 90's and early part of this decade are turning or have already turned 30 by now, so this place is adding some much needed youthful energy to the area. Plus, they do have some great drink specials.
I'll leave the food reviews up to someone else though :D I like to be optimistic and support new businessses when they open up in the hood and let them prove themselves over time.
I agree.... I don't think it;s a bad addition. Just that if they yanked the menu mostly except for say pizza and fries and removed pub from the name, they would have a more clear focus.
It's a late nite place for people generally younger than us (30) to dance and drink PBR. I don't have any problems with that.
As far as the bathrooms, they make London Bridge's look like the hyatt. BOTH of the women's stalls had NO LOCKS. so in addition to hovering while taking a whiz I also had to hold the door at the same time. FUN!
Quote from: Lunican on August 01, 2008, 11:05:11 AM
Quote from: stephElf on August 01, 2008, 10:31:06 AM
Also as an FYI - credit cards are a $10 minimum but they don't tell you that until AFTER you have walked in the door and ordered 2 $2 beers...
Merchants accepting Visa or MasterCard credit or debit cards are not allowed to set a minimum amount for using the card; that is a violation of the merchant agreement.
If they get caught they won't be accepting any credit cards. Reporting them is always an option.
exactly... that's why I can buy a 25 cent pack a gum at a gas station if I wanted... that really irked me.
And the annoying thing was I just closed out my $15 tab and I had ordered my husband the wrong drink and he wanted to get something else. cut me some slack people! they could have just ran my stupid card again for $4.
Quote from: David on August 01, 2008, 11:13:21 AM
I know you're used to your hookah lounges and upscale restaurants, so try to go easy when giving your opinion on a place that's geared towards a younger crowd. I will give you one thing though, the pub designation will throw alot of people off as the London Bridge, Kings Head & Fly's Tie do hold as true to the "pub" atmosphere as you will find in these parts.
But back to the bathrooms, I don't think clean bathrooms are allowed in 5 points, in fact the men's bathroom at Steamworks is severely lacking graphite & obscene/philosophical writings on the wall. We need someone to get on that, stat!
hey wall street is a dive and i don't mine pissing in theirs or sherwoods bathrooms. a lock aint too much to ask for. i like grimy places just as much as a nice place.
i just was expecting like i said a flys tie or a london bridge and this place is the furthest from both.
but it will serve its purpose well for the crowd it is catering to
Quote
i just was expecting like i said a flys tie or a london bridge and this place is the furthest from both.
but it will serve its purpose well for the crowd it is catering to
I know, you do have a valid point. I think this thread has bumped up the credibility of metrojax a notch. Change starts here. One bathroom at a time.
Quote from: David on August 01, 2008, 11:26:49 AM
I think this thread has bumped up the credibility of metrojax a notch. Change starts here. One bathroom at at ime.
wise ass ;D
Quote from: Lunican on August 01, 2008, 11:05:11 AM
Quote from: stephElf on August 01, 2008, 10:31:06 AM
Also as an FYI - credit cards are a $10 minimum but they don't tell you that until AFTER you have walked in the door and ordered 2 $2 beers...
Merchants accepting Visa or MasterCard credit or debit cards are not allowed to set a minimum amount for using the card; that is a violation of the merchant agreement.
If they get caught they won't be accepting any credit cards. Reporting them is always an option.
That's a dick move. Merchants actually lose a percentage of your money when you use your card, so cut them a break. It makes no sense for them to run a credit card for a $2 charge, because they lose probably $.25 off the top and then an additional $.10 or $.0.15 off that. It may seem small to you, but to a small business this all adds up in the end. They're just trying to make sure they cover their costs. I would rather have a $10 minimum than cash-only.
The charge can be a bit higher than that even. I talked to a business owner who said they pay 10% off every charged purchase, and if that doesn't equal $.50, then they add a $.50 fee. Give small business owners a break, they are the reason we go to Five Points. If you wanted Applebee's you'd go to the SJTC.
I guess. Either accept them or don't. It's 2008 - who the heck has cash?
And yes, I realize that they have to pay a percentage to the credit card company. But instead of giving away a little bit of $5 - they got nothing. And it wouldn't surprise me if some people don't go back b/c of that.
They should just tack on a surcharge if the total's less than a certain amount. Some delis downtown do that. Example, your total's only 3.50, they add on a .50 cent fee to cover the service fees of credit & debit cards. I'd rather pay the extra .50 to .75 cents than have to spend another 4 dollars on something I don't want.
That would be the best solution. Overall it was just a minor complaint anyways.
What was really annoying was those damn kids playing their airhockey with all its racket. Don't they know us old people simply want peace and quiet when we go out drinking and scouring for little things to complain about?
Quote from: stephElf on August 01, 2008, 12:11:09 PM
I guess. Either accept them or don't. It's 2008 - who the heck has cash?
And yes, I realize that they have to pay a percentage to the credit card company. But instead of giving away a little bit of $5 - they got nothing. And it wouldn't surprise me if some people don't go back b/c of that.
I use cash exclusively... with an exception for major purchases , online, etc...
QuoteI use cash exclusively... with an exception for major purchases , online, etc...
::attempts to mug bridgetroll but cries when he gets me on a noogie headlock::
The problem is that eventually they will get caught by Visa/MasterCard (especially with a pretty high $10 minimum) and they may get their merchant license revoked. It's cash only then. Someone might want to warn them.
Quote from: David on August 01, 2008, 01:16:57 PM
QuoteI use cash exclusively... with an exception for major purchases , online, etc...
::attempts to mug bridgetroll but cries when he gets me on a noogie headlock::
:D :D
Quote from: Lunican on August 01, 2008, 01:20:57 PM
The problem is that eventually they will get caught by Visa/MasterCard (especially with a pretty high $10 minimum) and they may get their merchant license revoked. It's cash only then. Someone might want to warn them.
If that's the case, then most likely the next step would be to put an ATM machine in the door and charge your 2 or 3 bucks extra to get cash out :( :( :(
ok THIS is what the rumor I heard was referring to, it wasn't about steamworks afterall:
Topic: Dona Maria's on Margaret Closed????
Quote from: The Compound on September 22, 2008, 03:21:37 PM
Yes its closed. There is an irish pub going in there.
I've noticed business owners want us to keep hush hush until they say for sure what the plans are, so that's all I've heard. I believe mossfire's involved somehow though.
YES! Great plan. Excellent location for an Irish Pub!!!! ;D
Quote from: David on September 22, 2008, 03:30:42 PM
ok THIS is what the rumor I heard was referring to, it wasn't about steamworks afterall:
Topic: Dona Maria's on Margaret Closed????
Quote from: The Compound on September 22, 2008, 03:21:37 PM
Yes its closed. There is an irish pub going in there.
I've noticed business owners like us to keep hush hush until they say for sure what the plans are, so that's all I've heard. I believe mossfire's involved somehow though.
Should be open in 6-8 weeks
Good riddance Donna Marias. May your fecal-laced food never touch anyone's lips again!
The ONLY thing that place had going for it was the outside bar & patio, great place to get some happy hour drinks but that's about it. I hope this new establishment keeps the outdoor patio atmosphere going.
Quote from: David on September 22, 2008, 04:47:12 PM
Good riddance Donna Marias. May your fecal-laced food never touch anyone's lips again!
The ONLY thing that place had going for it was the outside bar & patio, great place to get some happy hour drinks. I hope this new establishment keeps the outdoor patio atmosphere going.
Oh yeah thats the only thing Dona Marias had going for them. I think this is going to be an awesome new place, and finally a nice different option for the area.
It is hard to imagine that a proper pub could be built out in just 6-8 weeks. Either the time estimate is inaccurate or the place will not be a true pub as seen in Ireland.
Quote from: RiversideGator on September 22, 2008, 05:15:36 PM
It is hard to imagine that a proper pub could be built out in just 6-8 weeks. Either the time estimate is inaccurate or the place will not be a true pub as seen in Ireland.
I was told 6-8 weeks by the owners, so I guess we'll have to wait and find out.
Bahahaha, Fecal laced food....
But guys aren't you forgetting, what other place sells single 10oz domestic drafts for $4 the moment their happy hour ends?
Man, Steamworks, Bold City, and now this. Are there any hospitals that will put you on the liver transplant waiting list before Cirrhosis takes effect?
May this place be the pub that the Gas Lamp "Pub" and Steamworks "Pub" are not! May I be able to sit in a dark, warm and comfortable space and sip on a delicious pint of ale and eat a plate of corned beef and cabbage while a bartender with an accent tells me about the new libations that were just delivered from the olde country for my enjoyment. May football play on the tele while I laugh and carry on with my mates in A TRUE IRISH PUB!!! ;D
Jacksonville Confidential and I will have a blog up shortly with some official news about the new Pub on JacksonvilleConfidential.com.
Its been confirmed!!!!!
http://www.jacksonvilleconfidential.com/2008/09/obrothers-irish-pub.html
Nice. I'm sure the area will love this place and support it.
"pub & restaurant"
This bodes well
So another "Pub" in Riverside just around the corner from Steamworks, that just opened as well. Are they going to be significantly different??? I guess if 5 Points can support multiple sushi restaurants, they can support multiple Pubs..................
Quote from: tpot on September 23, 2008, 05:52:19 PM
So another "Pub" in Riverside just around the corner from Steamworks, that just opened as well. Are they going to be significantly different??? I guess if 5 Points can support multiple sushi restaurants, they can support multiple Pubs..................
You wont be able to compare Steamworks to O'Brothers. Steamworks is barely a step up from Starlight, just a bar with fried bar food.
And air hockey!
One thing though: I keep hearing "oh another pub in Riverside?" style comments alot from multiple people but the thing is, there's not much over there really. Just a year ago all you had was wallst, starlite, raglands and....and well that's about it right? Kickbacks isn't in the immediate area. From a nightlife perspective, the area has been needing more to sustain that atmosphere for a long time. Look at little 5 points in Atlanta, they've got a music venue, multiple eataries, pubs etc. Alot in one area basically... I always get envious when I go for a visit. But eitherway, It's good to see more options coming to the Riverside area. I wished I had all this stuff when I was 21!
Quote from: David on September 23, 2008, 06:15:19 PM
And air hockey!
One thing though: I keep hearing "oh another pub in Riverside?" style comments alot from multiple people but the thing is, there's not much over there really. Just a year ago all you had was wallst, starlite, raglands and....and well that's about it right? Kickbacks isn't in the immediate area. From a nightlife perspective, the area has been needing more to sustain that atmosphere for a long time. Look at little 5 points in Atlanta, they've got a music venue, multiple eataries, pubs etc. Alot in one area basically... I always get envious when I go for a visit. But eitherway, It's good to see more options coming to the Riverside area. I wished I had all this stuff when I was 21!
I totally agree. Also, who in the area can compare to the outdoor space in this location. No one. Dona Marias had a great space, they just fell short in EVERY other area.
The Brick does "outside" well - especially in the colder months.
Well, I 'm looking forward to trying it out.
I biked past the place and took a look inside to see how things were coming along. Looks like its still quite a ways off. Lots of renovation on the inside being done and still a lot of Dona Marias patio furniture outside, I'd be amazed if it's open before the end of the year. If nothing else though, at least there are signs of something happening there.
Im sure the entire building was disgusting. It will take a while to get the place in presentable shape. But I have total faith in the O'Brothers brothers.
Quote from: Bewler on October 27, 2008, 07:09:04 PM
I biked past the place and took a look inside to see how things were coming along. Looks like its still quite a ways off. Lots of renovation on the inside being done and still a lot of Dona Marias patio furniture outside, I'd be amazed if it's open before the end of the year. If nothing else though, at least there are signs of something happening there.
Yeah they are gutting the whole inside. It needed it.
They nabbed all the awesome furniture etc. out of the old Preservation Tap House location a few weeks ago to be placed in the pub, I expect it will be quite nice.
From the looks of it this afternoon, outside work has begun. Demolition, painting etc.
Hope they're getting close!
Nice coat of paint for the building, and they just put up their new awning this week, looks good.
They are opening Wednesday or Thursday this week.
Last night I saw the sandwich board out front and people going in.... but it turned out to be a soft "friends & family" opening.
The woman out front working the door said they were opening to the public on Saturday.
Yeah I went last night, it a really cool place. We'll have a little review of it up on JacksonvilleConfidential.com later today.
Here's the link
http://www.jacksonvilleconfidential.com/2008/12/obrothers-irish-pub-first-look.html
Looking forward to checking this place out. Does it in any way resemble an authentic pub (i.e. as seen in Ireland or Britain)?
Really looking forward to checking the place out!
Thanks for a great write-up, JC.
Quote from: RiversideGator on December 16, 2008, 10:44:10 PM
Looking forward to checking this place out. Does it in any way resemble an authentic pub (i.e. as seen in Ireland or Britain)?
I think so. Ive not been to Ireland, but Ive been to London. It definately has a pub feel, but definately a bit nicer and way cleaner, lol. They also will have some different pub games when its done.
This just sounds wicked nasty hella dope tight boiii.
Any word on the beers they'll be carrying?
There are 18 taps on the inside bar but i'm not sure what All the beers will be. It wasn't finished yet.
Nice place...drink were pretty expensive though. $5 pints I believe...
Quote from: The Compound on December 17, 2008, 02:59:13 PM
Quote from: RiversideGator on December 16, 2008, 10:44:10 PM
Looking forward to checking this place out. Does it in any way resemble an authentic pub (i.e. as seen in Ireland or Britain)?
I think so. Ive not been to Ireland, but Ive been to London. It definately has a pub feel, but definately a bit nicer and way cleaner, lol. They also will have some different pub games when its done.
Good to hear. There is nothing better than a proper pub IMO. BTW, for a great list, complete with pictures and information, of traditional London pubs, check out this site: http://www.pubs.com/home.cfm
I have had the good fortune to visit many of them.
Yeah it was on the expensive side. Hopefully there’ll be a happy hour or some kind of drink specials soon.
Quote from: Bewler on December 22, 2008, 03:48:11 PM
Yeah it was on the expensive side. Hopefully there’ll be a happy hour or some kind of drink specials soon.
They do have happy hour specials. $2.50 & $3 drafts, half price well drinks, and $4 house wine.
Actually, $5 for a guinness seems about right. I was there this weekend and paid $3 during happy hour.
And I am pleased to report that the food was good. My bangers and mash were very tasty.
Do you know if that's everyday or how long happy hour lasts? I work till 7 everyday so I usually miss out on the early fun.
I know this is going to sound too rich for most people's pay grade (because I thought the same thing at first), but hear me out...
1171 on Edgewood has a fantastic happy hour that goes from 5-7, and the 2-4-1 applies to everything across the board, including premium liquors. If you want belvedere or grey goose, it's like $7 and 2-4-1. Martinis are also 2-4-1. So is everything else. And they have a really good pour too. So if you're looking for something besides beer in a happy hour, then you really can't beat it. They serve food at the bar, too, and as long as you stick to a burger or sandwiches, it's really pretty reasonable.
Obviously, it's a whole different experience than a pub setting, but I just figured I'd put it out there.
Actually that sounds like a fair deal Chris. I've wanted to check that place out so that's a good reason to.
I've been to O'Brothers a few times and I'd say it's more of a place to enjoy the atmosphere and great food than a place to slam down cheap booze.
The Guinness macaroni & cheese looks like a tasty app, and I can't wait to try out the lamb burger. The prices are fair and the food's definitely above average. I must've talked to 3 or 4 people at the bar and asked them how their meal was; all were pretty much impressed with their choices.
Well, we went and tried O'Brother's last night, and I was both impressed and slightly disappointed.
To start with, the food is very simple, mainly comprised of your typical "family level" restaurant fare, but with everything having been given cliche Irish-sounding names. The concept is pretty much the same thing as Bennigan's. The Bangers & Mash and the Shepherd's Pie are about the only UK-inspired items on the menu, with the rest of the selections being your typical cheeseburgers, breaded chicken tenders, buffalo wings, yada, yada.
The food quality itself is actually pretty decent, and there were no problems with it. Everything was tasty for what it was, and there was nothing to complain about. The service was also good, and we had a very friendly server who is putting herself through pharmacy school. She was attentive and warm, so no complaints there either.
But the pricing was on the high side. Not excessively, but still noticeably so. We ordered one cup of soup, one order of 8 buffalo wings, and two cheeseburgers. Our waitress informed us it was happy hour and said the drinks were 1/2 off, so we decided to indulge. I had a few vodka tonics, and Mike had two beers, plus the two apps and burgers. So for the basic food and well-brand drinks that we ordered, the bill should have been what? $40-$45 plus tip & tax should cover it. But in reality, the bill wound up being $70.
Now...at $40-$50 out the door, I'd say I liked the place. In fact, I thought the food was good, and we did appreciate their beer selection. But with a $70 bill for the type of basic food and drinks we ordered, it's clear the pricing just doesn't match up. Quality-wise, this is a $20 per person restaurant but they're charging almost double that. So my review is kind of a mixed bag. There's nothing 'wrong' with the place, per se, except that it's pricey for what it is. For that same $70, we could have gone to Biscotti's, the Brick, etc. And it's not that they're the cat's meow or anything like that, but at the same time those type of places are undeniably a couple rungs up the ladder from O'Brother's, and yet the prices are the same.
Anyway, that's my $0.02, so take it for what you paid for it. I think this is a nice place, but they need to adjust a bit if they're going to make it long term. There are just too many restaurants around with the same food and cheaper prices. And the drinks are pricey for a "Pub", which is perplexing since that's ostensibly the reason you're there in the first place. Regular well drinks shouldn't be much more than $4 or $4.50, and $3 or $3.50 for a beer should be the max, unless it's something really exotic. There's also no reason that basic 1/4-lb cheeseburgers should run $10 or $11, even despite the creative names. But with all that said, the pricing isn't worth avoiding the place altogether, and the food isn't bad. It's just never going to be your nightly food & drinks hangout, unless you want to spend a fortune.
I ate at Mossfire last week. Stopped by to pick up a menu. The menu looks Delicious. Can't wait to try it.
Wow Chris... Im gonna agree with you here. If the pricing is as you say, many of the 5 points denizens will not patronize on a regular basis. :o
I think the majority so far believes the pricing is a bit steep. I agree.
It's a great place for a drink or two and maybe an app but to make a night of it would be far too costly.
I am going to jump on this band wagon. Me and three of my friends went the other weekend, and that is exactly what we did. Each of us ordered drinks, split two appetizers and left to go to Raglands to drink more. Not to put this place place down, because I think it is a good edition to the area, especially since it is directly at the end of my street, but it wasn't much different than Moss Fire on the price range, and I was expecting a drinking establishment. Hopefully they will have a special night like Donna Maria's did for tacos on Wednesday, that will make it a better deal to spend an evening drinking and eating there.
I've been there twice now. I like it ok.
The beers are a lil on the high side. $5. I'd be happier with $4 or even $4.50... for that price I'll go to Bold City instead as I love 75% of their beers and it costs less.
The food is good. But I agree, it is pricey for what it is. They could at least throw in 2 sides vs. 1 or a small dinner salad with their entrees. For the price, I'd rather go to Biscotti's or The Brick like another poster mentioned as I feel their food is a notch above.
I'll go back. But it will have to be for a happy hour priced beer or a weekend lunch like a sandwhich.
I am glad there is a new edition to 5 pts to choose from. And I will always, always LOVE mossfire. Goat Cheese appetizer is all I have to say about that.
http://obrothers.food.officelive.com/default.aspx
(http://obrothers.food.officelive.com/images/menu1.JPG)
(http://obrothers.food.officelive.com/images/menu2.JPG)
Thats not the current menu, its been updated since that.
Quote from: stephElf on January 07, 2009, 01:17:47 PM
I've been there twice now. I like it ok.
The beers are a lil on the high side. $5. I'd be happier with $4 or even $4.50... for that price I'll go to Bold City instead as I love 75% of their beers and it costs less.
The food is good. But I agree, it is pricey for what it is. They could at least throw in 2 sides vs. 1 or a small dinner salad with their entrees. For the price, I'd rather go to Biscotti's or The Brick like another poster mentioned as I feel their food is a notch above.
I'll go back. But it will have to be for a happy hour priced beer or a weekend lunch like a sandwhich.
I am glad there is a new edition to 5 pts to choose from. And I will always, always LOVE mossfire. Goat Cheese appetizer is all I have to say about that.
Happy hour beers (4-7pm) at OBrothers are $2.50 domestic, and $3 import
Here is the updated menu -
http://www.jacksonvilleconfidential.com/2009/01/obrothers-new-menus.html
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r225/fridechx/OBrothersmenunew.jpg)
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r225/fridechx/OBrothersmenunew2.jpg)
Quote from: The Compound on January 07, 2009, 01:32:40 PM
Happy hour beers (4-7pm) at OBrothers are $2.50 domestic, and $3 import
Ya, but that's exactly the problem.
O'Brothers' "happy hour" prices are within $0.50 or $1 of the REGULAR prices at most places, and then when you take happy hour at the other places into account, then the spread gets even worse. European Street is right around the corner, charging $3 to $4 with 2-4-1 during happy hour.
And if you don't happen to catch the happy hour at O'Brothers, which is pretty likely since most people don't eat dinner at 6pm sharp, then $5 for domestic beers and $6 for imports is pretty much highway robbery. It shouldn't cost you $35 to have 2 or 3 beers and a burger, which is what this place charges. Add it up...$18 for 3 beers at $6 ea., plus $9.50 or so for a burger brings you to around $28. Then add $2 tax and $4 tip, and you're right at $34. And it just keeps getting worse if you want a mixed drink, or order an app.
It's a rip, especially for a place that's supposed to be a"pub". Even the Brick, which is overpriced in its own right, charges $1 less for burgers, the beers are at least $1 cheaper, and most of the apps are cheaper. And they have better food. I really think O'Brothers is going to have to lower their prices if they want to be successful, long-term.
I see that the Fish & Chips is now $12.99 as opposed to the much more reasonable price of $10.99 from the original menu posted here.
You can also get a 12-pack of natty lite for $6 and sit at home and cry in your beer and count pennies. Thats what I do.
Quote from: The Compound on January 07, 2009, 02:39:46 PM
You can also get a 12-pack of natty lite for $6 and sit at home and cry in your beer and count pennies. Thats what I do.
Nah, I just prefer to pay $4 for 2 beers and $7 for a gigantic meal at European Street. Or $4 for a beer and $9 for a burger at the brick. Or $3 for a beer and $6 for a burger at Harpoon Louies. I'm sure you get where I'm going with this...
This place, charging $6 for a beer and $10-$12 for a burger, is overpriced. That's not my fault.
Quote from: The Compound on January 07, 2009, 02:39:46 PM
You can also get a 12-pack of natty lite for $6 and sit at home and cry in your beer and count pennies. Thats what I do.
:D
Quote from: The Compound on January 07, 2009, 02:39:46 PM
You can also get a 12-pack of natty lite for $6 and sit at home and cry in your beer and count pennies. Thats what I do.
Think I'll stay with European street and get plastered ther when I'm in town. If I'm paying 6 bucks a beer I expect someone to be naked and dancing around a pole.
:D :D :D
O'Brothers should reconsider being open on Sunday afternoons. While I was sitting outside enjoying the weather @ Mossfire yesterday afternoon, a swarm of at least 25+ bicyclist descended upon the pub, only to find it closed.
I've never seen a place lose so much potential business at once!
Where did the swarm move off to? On a related note...
http://www.physorg.com/news151929868.html
Quote from: David on February 09, 2009, 09:18:28 AM
O'Brothers should reconsider being open on Sunday afternoons. While I was sitting outside enjoying the weather @ Mossfire yesterday afternoon, a swarm of at least 25+ bicyclist descended upon the pub, only to find it closed.
I've never seen a place lose so much potential business at once!
That is terrible. I wonder what their reasoning is?
I went to Al's pizza in 5 points yesterday. I arrived about 5:15 and the whole area seemed busy.
I learned at the Irish Fest last weekend that O'Brothers will be having a block party (Margaret St.) for St. Patty's day with live music and some very reasonable drink / food specials. Should be as much fun as you can have on a Tuesday and make for a very difficult Wednesday.
This is a great idea, it beats having the cops yell at us to get off the street.
http://www.rivercityvibe.com/
http://obrothers.food.officelive.com/default.aspx
Eff Obrothers, Ill be at the flip cup tourney at Bold City Brewery.