The Pub Rocky River
Last night Alana and I checked out The Pub, on recommendation of one of my work friends. I was immediately struck by the great authentic old-style British atmosphere. I spent so long poring over the beer list I almost forgot to order food. I think they have something like 28 imports on draught? Notably they have a couple of my British favorites on tap, Fuller’s ESB (and another variety of Fuller’s) and Young’s Double Chocolate Stout. Not surprisingly, both are significantly better on draught.
Alana had an excellent pub ale brewed especially for them by Sam Adams, and I had a Kentucky Bourbon Barrel Ale. The bourbon finish was much stronger than I expected, but without overpowering the beer. It was maybe the smoothest beer I’ve ever had, and at 9%abv a force to be reckoned with. Each beer comes served in its proper glass.
I almost wept when I saw the scotch list, a full page of single malts all served with a splash of highland distilled spring water. I was elated to see some of my favorites, the Glenmorangie Port and Sherry finishes. Too bad they don’t also have the Madeira finish. Next time I’m going to try the Dalmore Cigar Malt. They also have a wide selection of small batch bourbons, including a 9 year old Knob Creek 100 proof. The single malts (not the really expensive ones), the bourbons and the beer can all also be had in a sampler flight.
We got bangers and mash and shepherd’s pie, both of which were delicious and served with field greens and balsamic vinagrette. Since HP Sauce can no longer be imported to the states, The Pub has their own identical formula. We split the Tipsy Laird for dessert, which was pound cake, berries, and custard. All of the food was excellent, the service was tremendous, and their entire menu is available for carry out.
Even on a Monday the place was packed, and I hear there’s a two hour wait on Friday and Saturdays. I’d recommend checking it out during lunch hours or a weekday evening. Entrees ranged from $10 - $15. Also worth noting, the drinks seem to be priced at fair market value so you won’t be paying out your ear when trying higher end beverages.
Thanks for writing this up. I hang out quite a bit in the Rocky River - Lakewood circuit and have been eyeballing The Pub as an alternative for what has been a staple: Around The Corner (ATC).