Crystal City Sports Pub – Best DC Venue for March Madness

Last week, Rhino Bar took on Penn Quarter Sports Tavern for the right to face Buffalo Billiards in the second round.

Penn Quarter Sports Tavern had ample representation from exuberant UConn and Villanova followers and thus earned a 15/20 for patronage. The bar is smaller and at times it was difficult to secure a good vantage point for watching the games. Also, more than half of the establishment was booked for the College Hockey tournament so they only receive an atmosphere score of 12/20. The service was average (10/20) as I had to wait for the bartenders attention on multiple occasions. And finally, I give them a 10/20 on intangibles, as I felt the bar did nothing to go above and beyond for the NCAA tournament.

Rhino Bar lacked the collegiate representation that I expected, and was actually eerily empty for the Saturday evening game. Still, the sporadic cheering and interest in the game was enough to score a 13/20 for patronage. I could take my pick of televisions and could hear the game commentary clearly. As a result, they received higher marks for atmosphere (14/20). The service, perhaps because it was so empty, was great. I had a beer in my hand at all times, helping to quell the heartburn brought on by the $.25 wings (my own lack of judgment). They get a 16/20 for service and a 12/20 for intangibles. Rhino Bar defeats PQ Sports Tavern 55-47 to advance and meet Buffalo Billiards in the semis.

Buffalo Billiards was just better suited for NCAA tournament action. They were absolutely filled to capacity last Thursday for the sweet sixteen match-ups. In fact, even before the game started they had multiple group happy hours already in attendance. The contrasting mix of hard core collegiate fans and those looking to socially network resulted in a mediocre patronage score (14/20). Their atmosphere score, however, by virtue of their many flat screens, was a 16/20. Buffalo Billiards seems understaffed for larger events. It is nearly impossible to get drinks at the back bar, and there is always a lack of seating. They scored relatively low marks for service (12/20). I gave them a 15/20 for intangibles resulting in a 57-55 victory over Rhino Bar and advancing them to the championship.

Buffalo Billiards’ low marks for service was the difference in their championship game against Crystal City Sports Pub. Even across all of the other criteria, Crystal City’s impeccable service earned them a 62-57 victory and the right to be called the best March Madness Venue in the DC area.

For complete reviews of these venues you can reference my previous blogs.

Rhino Bar & Pumphouse
Penn Quarter Sports Tavern
Buffalo Billiards
Crystal City Sports Pub

March Madness Update

Rhino Bar & Pumphouse - Sports in Georgeown!

When you think of Georgetown, the images of cozy coffee shops, trendy restaurants, and upscale shopping probably come to mind. You don’t necessarily think of sports bars. Still, Rhino Bar & Pumphouse, has carved out an interesting niche in this often times “swanky” town.

Located on M Street, just a rock toss from the Key Bridge, this sports bar is known for its professional and college football coverage, as well as being a Red Sox bar—during the MLB playoffs, transplanted Bostonians come in droves. Rhino Bar is a good venue for group congregation. It is dark, and a bit dingy, but they have ample televisions and plenty of room. In the Fall, they cater to Big Ten alumni, and are usually packed for the Ohio State and Penn State games. You will find the larger, more boisterous crowds upstairs, where long tables are usually covered with pitchers of beers and pizza. Recent Buckeye and Nittany Lion alum arrive early on Saturdays to claim their stake. If you get there at game time, you may be out of luck, especially if you are sober. Like any venue, when it gets too crowded, the small bathrooms can get a little skuzzy, and securing a drink at the bar can be increasingly frustrating. On Sundays, they have the NFL ticket, so Charger and Seahawk fans can take solace in at least getting some coverage in the DC area.

On nights that lack a big game, you will find local Georgetown and GW undergrads enjoying one of Rhino Bar’s many specials, whether it be half-priced beers, or $.25 wings. Their patrons run the gamut from jersey clad football fanatics to the more anticipated Georgetown crowd--popped collars and handbags to boot. The demographic battle is usually won depending what game is being aired. In any case, if you are looking for a sports pub in Georgetown, this is it. There is a lack of solid alternatives, although if the crowd is too overbearing, you can always walk three blocks east to Old Glory. It doesn’t have the coverage, but it also doesn’t have the crowd.

Penn Quarter Sports Tavern -- Cozy Coverage

Penn Quarter Sports Tavern has got a few advantages working in its favor in terms of sports coverage. First of all, its location is ideal. Situated five blocks south of the Verizon Center it is engulfed in the DC sports scene. As a result, it caters to the Caps and Wizards fans that can’t score tickets or those looking to catch away games. But don’t be fooled. The upstairs is decked out with college and football helmets, also providing the necessary setting for the gridiron fanatic. Secondly, they are diligent about posting events and details on their future television coverage, so you won’t get burned upon arrival and miss out on the specific sporting event that you are anticipating.

While all of their televisions have been recently upgraded, their organizational meticulousness is required, as they do not have an overabundance of flat screens. And with two relatively cozy levels, it can get crowded. Also, the tight quarters can bring about challenging viewing angles when it is congested. And while they do not have the game coverage of larger venues like Crystal City Sports Bar, or Buffalo Billiards, they do an ample job of managing expectations. Check their website to make sure the game of your choice is playing. It’s a safe assumption that the local teams will be televised, but others may require some follow up.

Because of its size, the service is prompt. You are always within eye contact of the bartenders and waiters so your beer mug will remain filled and you can evade the service frustration that accompanies those larger sporting venues. For more popular events, you may want to opt for a larger establishment, but for your run-of-the-mill local sports, Penn Quarter Sports Tavern has everything you need—good service, ample equipment, and an energetic atmosphere.

BRABO Restaurant - Upscale and Cosmopolitan

After visiting their tasting room recently, it was mandatory that I dine at their restaurant next door. And although I enjoyed the experience, I definitely like the Tasting Room better—more for the livelier atmosphere than anything.

BRABO is everything that you would expect from an upscale restaurant. The food is delicious and the service is impeccable. From the free valet parking to the informed and punctual wait staff, BRABO delivers the lavish experience that you would demand from a chic and fashionable establishment. The menu is a bit pricey, but comparable to its upscale counterparts.

The atmosphere is ultra cosmopolitan, reminiscent of the trendy restaurants that you might find in Manhattan’s more corporate neighborhoods. This makes sense, as it is conjoined with the Lorien Hotel & Spa and thus caters to their clientele. The ambiance is subdued, and relaxing—with dim lighting complemented by spa-like sconces. The chocolate colored walls with apricot accents further a feeling of tranquility. The elongated booths and leather chairs are distinctively lounge like, but are curiously juxtaposed with light blue Windsor chairs, which seem inconsistent with the otherwise comfortable décor.

The food was excellent, albeit the portions were a bit small. The Citrus Pepper Seared Ahi Tuna was a crowd favorite among my company, and there wasn’t a complaint to be heard--fresh, delectable and cooked to perfection. I had the Jumbo Asparagus with Maltaise Sauce for a side dish. The portion was small, and I question the use of the term “jumbo” but nonetheless it tasted good. Rave reviews were also had regarding the Grilled Lamb Tenderloins and Brabo’s inventive approach to the everyday Caesar salad, as they wrap it in prosciutto. For dessert, the Lemon Tart and the Triple Chocolate Mousse Terrine were exquisite.

Overall, I give them an A. The food and service are stellar, but if I had my pick, I would rather enjoy them next door at the Tasting Room where there is more action.

DC Bar Challenge Update

It was a great first weekend in the NiteNetwork DC Bar Challenge. Nellie's took on Bugsy's Sports Bar in the opening round of the tournament and scored a decisive victory 55-25 to advance to the second round.

Bugsy’s just didn’t have the goods to compete. The antiquated televisions and lack of game coverage gave them an atmosphere score of 10/20. The service was questionable as my chicken parmesan sandwich magically morphed into an order of buffalo wings. Moreover, there was a substantial wait for beer refills. As a result, they scored a mere 5/20 on service. The bar was not packed, and many seemed indifferent about the games, perhaps disappointed with the lack of Hockey coverage. In fact, in seemed as though they had their consistent draw of regulars, rather than an influx of college basketball fans. They get a 5/20 score for patronage. And finally, there was a Bud Light Promotion, but it was a feeble attempt at drawing a crowd. The Bud Light cheerleader was selling 5$ Bud Light drafts. That’s right, one dollar more than the Miller Lights I was drinking. The plastic basketball hoop was more of a distraction than an allure, and so they receive a meager 5/20 for intangibles, giving them a total of 25 points.

Nellie’s Sports Bar, on the other hand, was equipped to handle a much larger crowd, with far more flat screens. The university banners in the back added to the collegiate tone. They earned a 12/20 for atmosphere and backed it up with consistent and punctual service (15/20). The cheering and interest in the games earned them a 13/20 for patronage and I gave them a 15/20 for intangibles. As a result, they scored 55 points, en route to a runaway victory over Bugsy’s 55-25.

Nellie’s advanced on to the second round where they played valiantly against second seeded Crystal City Sports Pub. Crystal City, however, had too much firepower, edging them out 62-55. They had too many televisions, all visible, and had posters advertising the game line-ups. The state-of-the-art sound system puts patrons courtside for the games and so they earned a 17/20 for atmosphere. The service was impeccable, as both my hands were full throughout the evening, and despite the lack of tables, a bartender actually set up stools for our appetizers. For service they received high marks (17/20). As for patronage, it was evident that collegiate basketball fanatics regularly congregate here. The noise level and enthusiasm earned them a 15/20 for patronage. And finally, I gave them a 13/20 for intangibles, enough to solidify a 62-55 victory and advance to the championship.

For complete reviews of these venues, you can check out my previous reviews.

Bugsy’s Sports Bar
Nellie’s Sports Bar
Crystal City Sports Pub

Nellie's Sports Bar -- Debunking Stereotypes

The prospect of me, an ex-athlete with “meathead like” tendencies, attending a gay bar by myself to watch the NCAA tournament seems outlandish. Nevertheless, last Saturday, I found myself downing Miller Lights at Nellie’s Sports Bar on U Street, alone, watching Duke scrape by Texas by the slightest or margins.

Societal stereotypes dictate that the mere existence of a gay sports bar is a paradox. Since when can the two diametrically opposed worlds of cutthroat athletic competition-- the historical gridiron of manliness--and the “alternative lifestyle” coexist? Since now. Nellie’s Sports Bar has done more than just open up a great sports venue. It is challenging the close-minded, all-too-pervasive stereotype that male sports are not for the homosexual community. I specify “male,” not because Nellie’s message to the lesbian community is any different (it’s not), but because I feel like the sports/lesbian dichotomy is less pervasive. It is much more acceptable for female professional (and collegiate) athletes to admit to being gay than it is for male athletes. But, Nellie’s, in its fun-loving manner, tackles this controversial issue, and ultimately debases the lingering stereotype that sports are not for the gay community.

The beauty of Nellie’s message is the subtlety by which they achieve it. There is nothing political about their message. In fact, the only political undertones you will find are a few patriotic decorations and their motto, “Nellie Wants You to Join Our Team.” It is reminiscent of the Uncle Sam Army posters that the United States utilized as a wartime marketing technique. But whereas politics, and especially wartime politics, are marked by divergence, confrontation, and unilateral disagreement, Nellie’s message is clear, “all are accepted here.” Their proof is in the pudding. Not only will you find every demographic, from gay to straight, from man to woman, from black to white, but you will find every sport. The main room is decorated in antique sports paraphernalia, but NOT your expected football, baseball, and hockey memorabilia. Rather, wooden tennis rackets, croquet mallets, and crew paddles—the so-called more refined sports--adorn their walls. But then, in typical Nellie fashion, they are juxtaposed with an extensive collection of antique fraternity paddles. Brilliant! Moreover, you will find the collegiate basketball banners in the back room and realize that Nellie’s pays homage to all sports, just like they invite all races, and all sexual affiliations to “join our team.”

Come to Nellie’s. The cement floors and old exposed brick walls are cozier than you might think. And their "antique sports" decorative scheme is tasteful and neverending. Nellie’s embodies what all competition should--an even playing field for everyone where the rules are consistent for all those involved. This message is clear, all while taking a back seat to their primary message, “have fun.” And they are most certainly that. How else could you explain a former fraternity meathead visiting alone, without the security blanket of his friends, and having a wonderful time?

Crystal City Sports Pub - Gametime Nirvana

Crystal City Sports Pub rivals ESPN Zone with its capability for hosting sporting events. From the time you enter until the time you leave it is sensory overload—perfect for the sports fanatic seeking to lose their self in a plasma fantasyland.

The first level is the most expansive and family oriented section. And by family oriented, I mean I actually witnessed families dining there at Friday’s Happy Hour. The nuclear family was not the group that I expected to encounter at a sports pub, and true to form, that demographic dissolved over the course of the evening. In any case, the bottom floor is the most conducive to dining as it is more spacious and outfitted with larger tables. Still, you will not miss the big game if you are eating downstairs as there are a plethora of flat screens bearing down on you from every angle.

If you really want to immerse yourself in the game watching experience, walk upstairs. The second floor hosts another bar, and another series of HDTV’s as well as a state-of-the-art sound system. It can be loud at times, but you can count on witnessing every shoestring catch, every buzzer-beater, and every crunch time performance. And finally, if you seek the ultimate display of electronic splendor, visit their brand new non-smoking club level. It hosts one ten foot and two eight foot projection screen televisions, as well as numerous smaller ones for your viewing pleasure. The walls are decked out with sports memorabilia and there is sports ticker tape a la Wall Street. The accompanying scoreboards assure that you will never want for a score or gambling line, regardless of your sport of choice. The 27 foot ceilings add to club level comfort and the windows overlooking 23rd street provide light and the only connection to the outside world. Otherwise, it is a complete escape into sports utopia.

The menu is extensive, and what you would expect from a sports pub. What differentiates them from ESPN Zone is their patronage. I have found the franchise business model can often ostracize the local community in favor of a more corporate clientele. Crystal City Sports Pub has made an effort to coalesce with the surrounding environs, and it shows in the laid back and seemlingly tight knit cliques that frequent the venue.

Bugsy's Sports Bar - Upstate VA?

When I stepped into Bugsy’s Sports Bar, I was immediately transplanted from Old Town Alexandria to upstate New York—for better or worse. You would think Washington DC is a hockey town judging from this old yet cozy watering hole. If there is an ice hockey game being played, you can be sure they will be tuned in. But don’t expect to be watching it on upgraded plasma as their televisions are one step removed from necessitating a converter box. Bunny ears and tin foil anyone? Maybe this adds to the small town hockey atmosphere for some, but I enjoy actually seeing the puck go into the net.

Old sports memorabilia adorns the walls, most with local flavor. The owner is a former NHL player for the Washington Capitals (among other teams) so it makes sense that the bar would pay homage to the sport that he loves. The walls are brick and the wood flooring, barstools, and tables are all worn. There is a certain rustic charm that you cannot ignore, despite the need for electronic upgrades. The clientele? It is pretty much who you would expect to find at a Hockey game. Fans, clad in jersey’s or old t-shirts and jeans, down pitchers and smoke cigs. You don’t need to dress up, and the atmosphere is more-than-casual. The occasional late night argument between rival enforcers is not unheard of.

The food is good—standard bar fare, not expensive, but tasty. Also, you can choose to dine at the Pizza Restaurant downstairs if you so desire. The bartender is friendly, there seem to be a host of regulars, and with the Caps having their best season ever, why not?

Vapiano - Casual Dining with a Twist

Vapiano’s has discovered a way to eliminate the uncomfortable debate of how to split the check at the end of the night. Each customer receives a “chip” card that is scanned after every purchase. At the end of the evening, patrons check out at the front and cover their tab.

The result is a casual atmosphere that is remarkably fluid, as customers can sit at one of the many dining tables or linger at the bar without having to worry about closing and re-opening their tabs. It makes for a great meeting spot for co-workers and friends because people can come and go as they please without having to hastle with "settling up" before leaving.

And while the transition from one area to another is effortless, Vapiano’s has done an excellent job of delineating specialized sections for its patrons. Customers can order in the buffet style line where the cook makes your dish while you wait. Or, if you don't want to separate from the bar while your meal is prepared, they will give you a buzzer card that vibrates when it is ready. Alongside the kitchen are dining tables, ideal for larger groups. If you want a more social experience, you can congregate around the brick fireplace and dine in the lounge area at the opposite section of the restaurant. After dinner, transition seamlessly to the adjacent bar and enjoy a nightcap.

The food is fresh and distinctively Italian as most of their entrees are either pizza or pasta. Vapiano’s lacks intimacy, and might not be the best place to have a conventional first date, but it facilitates group congregation. Don't lose your card as you will be charged $100, and don't forget to leave a tip! Located at M and 18th street, Vapiano’s has revolutionized the casual dining and drinking experience.

March Madness Bar Challenge

The brackets are set up for the first Annual 2009 DC March Madness Challenge. Six qualifiers will battle it out to determine which is the best college basketball venue in the city. The preliminary rankings were determined by the NiteNetwork Drinking Establishment Committee (NNDEC). Committee members include Me, Myself, and I.

After heated debate, Buffalo Billiards earns a first round bye after picking up the number one seed. Their solid performance during the pro football season coupled with key screenings of marquee boxing matches enabled them to win the highly touted Northwest Conference and receive an automatic bid. They will face the winner of Rhino Bar and Penn Quarter Sports Tavern, ranked 4 and 5, respectively. Both venues scored at-large bids, falling short in the Northwest Conference tourney. Solid college football representation combined with a binge-drinking inducing atmosphere gave them high RPI ratings and their difficult strength of schedule(SOS) merited that they go dancing. Will one of them be this year's Cinderella Story?

In the bottom part of the bracket, Crystal City Sports Pub snagged the number two seed on mere hearsay. I have never been there, but I am told it is a premier venue for a sports fanatic. Will they live up to the hype? They will take on the winner of Nellie's Sports Bar and Bugsy's Sports Bar, ranked 3 and 6, respectively. Bugsy's earned an automatic bid by winning the lowly Alexandria Conference, and Nellie's is currently the only team in the "Alternative Lifestyle" Conference. They will do battle this weekend to take on the supposed perrenial powerhouse, Crystal City Sports Pub.

In order to bring some sort of objectivity to this competition, I will be adhering to a strict limit of fifteen drinks per evening so as to give each establishment their rightful review. Venues will be judged on four important criteria; atmosphere, service, patronage, and intangibles. Furthermore, they will be judged solely by me and my vast expertise in March Madness Hosting Technique. For my complete review schedule reference my earlier blog. Tipoff starts at Bugsy's on Thursday at 7pm.

O'Connell's - Alexandria's Authentic Irish Pub

Everybody loves an Irish Pub, especially when it is authentic, and this is exactly what O’Connell’s offers --authenticity. The wait staff and bartenders are predominantly Irish, and the décor is charmingly antiquated. Their vintage bars are over two hundred years old and there is endless antique paraphernalia adorning the walls, such as a turn-of-the century cigarette dispenser usptairs. Even the cupboard that stores the liquor bottles was recovered from an old Irish pharmacy. These relics must have cost a small fortune, but they augment the old fashioned Irish atmosphere. Three wood burning fireplaces complement the dark mahogany and exposed brick prevalent throughout.

O’Connell’s is located on King Street two blocks from Old Town’s waterfront. The colonial brick exterior belies its dimensions. From the outside O’Connell’s appears to be quite cozy, but upon entering, you’ll find a labyrinth of bars, dining rooms, and corridors. It almost feels as though you are navigating through an ancient castle. There are four bars, situated throughout restaurant, interspersed among the dining rooms. The main dining rooms are located upstairs and connected by an open corridor that overlooks the bar below. On fair-weathered days you can eat outside on the sidewalk, or enjoy a few cocktails on the patio overlooking King Street.

I have not eaten at O’Connell’s but their dining area is always bustling. The menu looks a bit expensive for Irish Pub fare, but again, this is personally unsubstantiated. For a drinking venue, O’Connell’s is excellent. There is always a lively crowd, and with four bars it is never overly cramped and always convenient for throwing back a few Guinness pints while watching your favorite football team on the tele.

BRABO Tasting Room -- Bravo for BRABO

From the man who brought you Brasserie Beck and Marcel’s, Robert Wiedmaier now presents BRABO in Old Town Alexandria, and he delivers once again. Specifically BRABO Tasting Room, adjacent to main dining room, is a perfect place for congregating with friends.

As you enter the tasting room you cannot help but notice that everything is brand new. A pristine stainless steel and brick oven greets you upon entering. The walls are painted pure white, contrasted by the black nautical decorations—simple yet sleek. There is nothing superfluous about BRABO. It’s brick flooring combined with the unadorned décor create the perfect balance of contemporary and rustic. I felt as though I was being entertained in a magnificent Tribeca loft as the ambiance and service are that personal.

Situated in the middle of the tasting room is an elongated table at which patrons stand, eat, imbibe and socialize with friends. Private booths offer a bit more seclusion and look out onto King Street. But don’t visit the tasting room if you are seeking quiet conversation. The atmosphere here is electric, and at times a bit noisy. But this only accentuates the tasting room’s purpose--a casual and lively dining experience with friends. Those looking for a more romantic evening can visit the main dining floor next door.

The service is impeccable; formal and considerate but also friendly and engaging. Our meal was brought out in a timely fashion and we actually enjoyed our dialogue with the waiter. It is a rare experience to be served not only a delicious meal, but meaningful discourse. For an appetizer we split the signature mussels, steamed in a classic white wine garlic, shallots, and parsley sauce. It was a meal in itself, and the perfect social food for those who are just as interested in conversing as eating. For my entrée I had the Five Onion soup and the Oven Roasted Chicken sandwich. Both were amazing, and so filling that I opted out of desert. To drink I had a Westmalle Trapist Tripel, a thick-headed Belgian beer. I must have enjoyed it, as I ordered three.

I look forward to dining at BRABO, in their main dining room. But for a social get-together with friends, the atmosphere, the service, and the food at BRABO Tasting Room are all A+. It is a must visit.

Town Hall -- Glover Park Convenience

So I found where everyone in Georgetown goes to pre-game for the Gin & Tonic late night dance scene, Town Hall. It too is located on Wisconsin Avenue, just a few blocks south. I am starting to realize what both of these establishments have in common, convenience.

Like Gin & Tonic, Town Hall doesn’t offer anything outlandish in terms of ambiance or theme; it is your general run-of-the-mill tavern. However, it is just far enough from Georgetown to avoid the weekend commotion, yet still accessible to young professionals who work in the city, many of whom live in Glover Park. On the weekends, it fills up to capacity, shortly after 10pm, and stays that way until close—providing for a lively atmosphere.

Town Hall is clean and organized, two important qualities that cater to its young professional patronage. Unlike Gin & Tonic, there is no dancing and drinks are easier to acquire, as it is far less crowded. If there was one episode last Saturday that illustrates the distinction between these two venues, it would be the group who ordered five Irish Coffee’s at the bar. This would never fly at Gin & Tonic. Not only would the bartenders be ill-equipped to handle such an order, but the chances of not spilling them are slim to none.

I have never eaten at Town Hall, but their menu is standard American cuisine. Dinner entrees like Dijon chicken, shrimp, and scallops go beyond your typical bar fare. This is a differentiating characteristic of Town Hall as it is more swanky than your typical pub. If you dine before 7pm during the week you will receive 15% off of your meal. And on Tuesdays they have half price wine night. But why settle for half price wine, when you can visit Bistro Lepic down the street for a free wine tasting?

As an outsider looking in, I have failed (until now) to grasp the appeal of the Glover Park social scene. But, like Gin & Tonic, Town Hall has something intangible for its visitors, convenience. They cater to the sizeable demographic that live in the area and who are actively searching for a central locale to meet up with friends. This is why they have a consistent following of regulars who visit time and again.

Firefly -- Caught in a Bottle

Walk southwest from Dupont Circle along New Hampshire Avenue, and you will find a small restaurant on your right called Firefly. The décor is comparable to that of a high school theatre set. As you enter, an overly large tree trunk greets you, serving as a centerpiece for the dining floor. It is large and unwieldy. Seemingly, its sole purpose is to accommodate the lanterns that hang from its branches, from which Firefly derives its name.

The forest theme is consistent, as the back wall is adorned with large imitation stones—clearly fake. The bar is polished wood, and less of an eyesore, but inconveniently placed near the encroaching tree. The entire room feels cramped, and dark. The lighting is a plaque-like yellow, complemented by the kitchen window, which is also tinted. There is a distinct lack of crispness. They are trying to create a refreshing sensation of a Summer evening, but they fall short. The theme is overly contrived and a bit suffocating. I felt more like I was in an amateur rehearsal of A Midsummer Night’s Dream than an upscale restaurant.

The food is decent but way overpriced. The hamburger I ordered was fine, but 17 dollars is a bit much. My friends tried the seared sea scallops and the roasted organic chicken (both dishes cost more than 25$) and while there were no complaints, I didn’t sense any substantial enthusiasm. Their beer menu is rather limited as well--although I did try a Troegs Dreamweaver Wheat and thoroughly enjoyed this Pennsylvanian ale.

All in all, Firefly just doesn't live up to the upscale experience that it markets itself as. The ambiance is confined but not intimate, and sometimes claustrophobic. And the food, while good, is not worth the price tag. I have to acknowledge, despite my grievances, that there is frequently a wait to be seated; perhaps evidencing that there is a multitude that will take exception with my critique.