Review content:
I'm astounded that other reviewers mention poor service -- I don't think I've ever been to a friendlier bar! The staff works really, really hard on busy nights, but they always have a moment to say a friendly word, recommend a new beer, or describe anything on the menu.\r
Go for the beer, first of all -- there isn't a wine list to speak of, and while the cocktails are good, they pale in comparison to the assortment of ales, lagers, stouts, wheat beers, dopplebocks, Belgians.... The owner likes to rotate new varieties in quickly, so don't be surprised to discover a particular favorite is gone -- but ask for a recommendation, and you'll find a new favorite!\r
The regular menu is fairly standard pub fare, with mild-to-painfully spicy wings, juicy burgers, tasty fish and chips, and good sandwiches. The specials, on the other hand, can be pretty ambitious. We had one of the best striped bass ever here; I love the steamers; and the pasta dishes are top-notch. \r
The atmosphere can run the gamut from tame to wild (depending on the sporting events being shown on any of the six screens), and the crowd is absolutely the most diverse and friendly I've seen (probably a reflection of the neighborhood). If you want friendly service, a dependable menu that features surprisingly ambitious specials, and possibly the broadest selection of beers outside of Monk's or Eulogy, you'll enjoy the time spent at McMenamin's.
Pros: The beers, the burgers, the staff, the energy.
Cons: Can get crowded on Fri / Sat nights; parking is sometimes a drag.
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