tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-56132850886791444122024-03-13T11:21:05.076-05:00CHICAGOLAND BLOODY MARYThe quest to find Chicagolands best Bloody Mary in bars & restaurants found in a 100 mile radius of ChicagoChristopher Dearmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06322939448473439621noreply@blogger.comBlogger32125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5613285088679144412.post-5902250837981681062011-01-13T22:58:00.006-06:002011-07-13T21:17:09.310-05:00UNEXPECTED MOVE...<div style="color: #f1c232; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b>I had an unexpected out-of-state move, so unfortunately I had to put an unplanned hiatus to my search for Chicagoland's best Bloody Mary. Don't worry though! I will be back soon, and when I do, I will definitely continue my search & let you know about it here. :)</b></div><div style="color: #f1c232; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b><br />
</b></div><div style="color: #f1c232; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b>Feel free to continue to enjoy the many reviews that I've done so far...there are some good Bloody Marys to be drink'n!</b><br />
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<b>Also, if your curious to what I'm doing in the the meantime, please visit my new website:</b><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><a href="http://www.dellsbucketlist.com/">www.dellsbucketlist.com</a></b></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-size: small;">I'm continuing my search for adventure by going behind-the-scenes at various Wisconsin Dells bars, restaurants & attractions - please help me spread the word!</span></b><br />
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<b><span style="font-size: small;">Also, since I have your ear - I recently published a book about the hijinx & debauchery of my days working at Santa's Village - it's guaranteed to make you laugh & smile - and maybe even shed a tear or two. Please check it out - I'd love to hear what you think!</span></b><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.santasvillagegonewild.com/">www.santasvillagegonewild.com</a></span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YCuMww1m2I0/Th5Ltw8r_XI/AAAAAAAAAR8/GSWxDNGhzAg/s1600/booksmall.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.santasvillagegonewild.com/"><img border="0" height="284" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-W7f25LwfHUQ/Th5MnnJPDlI/AAAAAAAAASI/yHKBxviQOTs/s320/3Globes_arrowSign.jpg" width="320" /></a><b><span style="font-size: large;"></span> </b></div></div></div>Christopher Dearmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06322939448473439621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5613285088679144412.post-41024752590768754042010-09-30T17:48:00.004-05:002010-10-09T20:22:04.413-05:00STREETS OF CHICAGO SPORTS BAR & GRILL<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_ClbZhW-CYvA/TKUSSgjAy8I/AAAAAAAAANA/PIjWjUHdl8g/s1600/2010-09-25_13.19.43.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_ClbZhW-CYvA/TKUSSgjAy8I/AAAAAAAAANA/PIjWjUHdl8g/s200/2010-09-25_13.19.43.jpg" width="150" /></a></div><span style="font-size: large;"><b>STREETS OF CHICAGO</b></span><br />
<b>550 S. McLean Blvd. -</b> <b>Elgin, IL</b><br />
<b>847-697-7311</b><b> </b><br />
<b><a href="http://www.streetsofchicago.net/">www.streetsofchicago.net</a></b><br />
<b>Date & Time: Saturday 09/25/10 - 12:30pm</b><br />
<b>Atmosphere: Sports Bar</b><br />
<b>Price: $2. 00!</b><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ClbZhW-CYvA/TKUTgC3C-7I/AAAAAAAAANE/uIx8yKN3wq8/s1600/2010-09-25_12.29.52.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ClbZhW-CYvA/TKUTgC3C-7I/AAAAAAAAANE/uIx8yKN3wq8/s200/2010-09-25_12.29.52.jpg" width="150" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="color: #f1c232;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I'm going to make this quick as there really wasn't much memorable about this cocktail except for the price. By FAR the cheapest Bloody Mary I got so far, it would have to be really bad for me not to recommend this drink, especially in this economic climate. </span></span></b><br />
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<b><span style="color: #f1c232;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">The drink wasn't really that good, but it wasn't really that bad either. It was the standard Bloody Mary you get at any decent establishment, and will make do if your not a picky drinker. Hung over after a night of heavy drinking? This cocktail is more then adequate to help recovery....</span></span></b><br />
<b><span style="color: #f1c232;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><a name='more'></a></span></span></b><br />
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<b><span style="color: #f1c232;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">This bargain cocktail comes with three olives, a lemon wedge, and for $2 - I recommend scrounging up some change from under the couch cushions & go get your drink on today.</span></span></b><br />
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<b><span style="color: #f1c232;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> </span></span></b><br />
<div style="color: black; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>QUICK REVIEW STREETS OF CHICAGO BLOODY MARY</b></span></div><div style="color: black; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b> Look: STANDARD</b></span></div><div style="color: black; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"></span><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Garnish: ADEQUATE</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><b>Satisfaction: ECONOMICAL</b></span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Rating: 2.5 OLIVES (out of 5)</b></span></div></div><b><span style="color: #f1c232;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"></span></span></b></div>Christopher Dearmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06322939448473439621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5613285088679144412.post-10399126454838487692010-09-22T20:26:00.005-05:002010-10-09T19:58:17.828-05:00DONLEY'S OLD WEST STEAKHOUSE<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_ClbZhW-CYvA/TJqrdXa_vII/AAAAAAAAAMs/Fi0NTjxMDo0/s1600/2010-09-21_19.42.59.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_ClbZhW-CYvA/TJqrdXa_vII/AAAAAAAAAMs/Fi0NTjxMDo0/s200/2010-09-21_19.42.59.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><span style="font-size: large;"><b>DONLEY'S OLD WEST STEAKHOUSE</b></span><br />
<b>8512 S. Union Rd. -</b> <b>Union, IL</b><br />
<b>815-923-8000</b><b> </b><br />
<b><a href="http://www.wildwesttown.com/">www.wildwesttown.com</a></b><br />
<b>Date & Time: Tuesday 09/21/10 </b><br />
<b>Atmosphere: An Old West Saloon</b><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_ClbZhW-CYvA/TJqsovhKIRI/AAAAAAAAAM0/zHnmZp5KtN4/s1600/2010-09-21_18.17.31.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_ClbZhW-CYvA/TJqsovhKIRI/AAAAAAAAAM0/zHnmZp5KtN4/s200/2010-09-21_18.17.31.jpg" width="150" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><span style="color: #f1c232;">The Bloody Mary I had at Donley's Old West Steakhouse was surprising excellent. When it first arrived at the table, seeing only a pickle & celery stalk had me worried. It wasn't the most appetizing <i>looking </i>cocktail, but the taste was up there with the best I've had since beginning this journey.</span></span></b><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><span style="color: #f1c232;">After being greeted by a cute smiling girl in western garb, I made my way into the cavernous room filled with taxidermy heads & western memorabilia. This definitely was a first for me, and I have to admit, it had me doubtful in what I would be getting to wet my whistle....</span></span></b><br />
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<b><span style="color: #f1c232; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Boy was looks deceiving! The Bloody Mary was spiced nicely, had the perfect amount of heat, and was just all around excellent. The fun atmosphere added to the happiness the cocktail brought, and </span><span style="color: #f1c232; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">there really isn't much more to say except - Yee Haw!</span></b><br />
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<div style="color: black; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>QUICK REVIEW DONLEY'S OLD WEST STEAKHOSE BLOODY MARY</b></span></div><div style="color: black; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b> Look: NOT THE GREATEST </b></span></div><div style="color: black; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"></span><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Garnish: A LITTLE LACKING</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><b>Satisfaction: YUM!</b></span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Rating: 4 OLIVES (out of 5)</b></span></div></div></div>Christopher Dearmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06322939448473439621noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5613285088679144412.post-82827238881305679972010-09-22T20:18:00.003-05:002010-10-09T19:26:28.445-05:00AMICI'S CLUBHOUSE<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ClbZhW-CYvA/TJqjy1BujtI/AAAAAAAAAMM/q8xUxPiM3L8/s1600/2010-09-15_13.13.55.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ClbZhW-CYvA/TJqjy1BujtI/AAAAAAAAAMM/q8xUxPiM3L8/s200/2010-09-15_13.13.55.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><span style="font-size: large;"><b>AMICI'S CLUBHOUSE</b></span><b> </b><br />
<b>456 Reddington Dr. -</b> <b>S. Elgin, IL</b><br />
<b>847-531-8820</b><br />
<b><a href="http://www.amicisclubhouse.com/">www.amicisclubhouse.com</a></b><br />
<b>Date & Time: Wednesday 09/15/10 - 12:45pm</b><b> </b><br />
<b>Bartender: Katie</b><br />
<b>Price: $6. 00</b><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ClbZhW-CYvA/TKUHIeMIrjI/AAAAAAAAAM8/a6h7MZ0LRGM/s1600/2010-09-15_12.40.37.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ClbZhW-CYvA/TKUHIeMIrjI/AAAAAAAAAM8/a6h7MZ0LRGM/s200/2010-09-15_12.40.37.jpg" width="150" /></a></div><b style="color: #f1c232; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I've been a little under the weather, so sorry it took so long to get this review up. </b><b><span style="color: #f1c232; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Getting right into things, the next Bloody Mary on my quest to find Chicagoland's best was consumed at the newly opened restaurant & bar Amici's Clubhouse. While it doesn't take the top prize, the drink definitely was one I'd have again.</span></b><br />
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<b><span style="color: #f1c232; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Made by a very friendly bartender named Katie, the cocktail came with 2 olives, pickle, lime wedge & celery stick. The drink had a nice taste, but could use a little more "kick" - I think adding a bit of horseradish would set things off nicely...</span></b><br />
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<b><span style="color: #f1c232; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"></span></b><br />
<a name='more'></a><b><span style="color: #f1c232; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">The place itself was quite comfortable. It had good music playing, a handful of flat-screens around the room, and even a small flat-screen above the urinal - which is a nice touch. About the only thing disappointing about the place was the ice-water - it was absolutely TERRIBLE - almost to the point of ruining the meal! If the owners of this place end up reading this, do yourself a favor & do something about this immediately. I don't know if this is just how tap water tastes in South Elgin or what, but you should either get some sort of filtration system, or just switch to bottled water - seriously, it was that bad!</span></b><br />
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<b><span style="color: #f1c232; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">That said, the cocktail was good, lunch was as well, and the place even has a little patio out front to enjoy your meal when the weather is good - which I'll have to check out next summer & see if anything has been done about that water! ;) </span></b><br />
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<div style="color: black; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>QUICK REVIEW AMICI'S CLUBHOUSE BLOODY MARY</b></span></div><div style="color: black; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b> Look: NICE </b></span></div><div style="color: black; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"></span><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Garnish: TRADITIONAL</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><b>Satisfaction: SOLID</b></span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Rating: 3.0 (out of 5)</b></span></div></div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ClbZhW-CYvA/TJqlf44L0vI/AAAAAAAAAMU/kMhjOrrv_fk/s1600/2010-09-15_12.40.46.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><b> </b>Christopher Dearmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06322939448473439621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5613285088679144412.post-84716811485253309332010-09-22T20:14:00.003-05:002010-09-25T18:16:49.232-05:00OLD STARKS TAVERN<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ClbZhW-CYvA/TJqmTYCCWQI/AAAAAAAAAMc/LqA4uXmaHvY/s1600/2010-09-11_18.37.22.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ClbZhW-CYvA/TJqmTYCCWQI/AAAAAAAAAMc/LqA4uXmaHvY/s200/2010-09-11_18.37.22.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><span style="font-size: large;"><b>OLD STARKS TAVERN</b></span><br />
<b>43W478 II Route 72 -</b> <b>Hampshire, IL</b><br />
<b>847-683-0014</b><br />
<b><a href="http://chicago.metromix.com/bars-and-clubs/bar/old-starks-tavern-hampshire/140823/content">Old Starks Tavern Metromix</a></b><br />
<b>Date & Time: Saturday 09/11/10 - 7pm</b><b> </b><br />
<b>Atmosphere: Outdoor Deck</b><br />
<b>Price: ?</b><br />
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<div style="color: #f1c232; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #f1c232; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_ClbZhW-CYvA/TJqnbVTnVXI/AAAAAAAAAMk/QHWO8_Dprm4/s1600/starks.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_ClbZhW-CYvA/TJqnbVTnVXI/AAAAAAAAAMk/QHWO8_Dprm4/s200/starks.jpg" width="150" /></a></span></div><b><span style="color: #f1c232; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">After getting a damn good Bloody Mary at the Red Ox, we went down the road to see if we could press our luck and find another. Unfortunately, after arriving at what I would have to describe as an "old bar" - we were informed that they were out of Bloody Mary mix...</span></b><br />
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<b><span style="color: #f1c232; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Not being one to leave a bar without ordering something, we got a couple Miller Lites & went out on the back deck where a very friendly lady named Marina informed us that we must try some of the food from the cook - and went on to describe in detail the various options & how good each were. Even though I had ate before I left, her enthusiasm for the food definitely had my mouth watering, so I mentally made note to come back again sometime...hopefully they'll be able to provide a Bloody Mary when I do!</span></b><br />
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<div style="color: black; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>QUICK REVIEW OLD STARKS TAVERN BLOODY MARY</b></span></div><div style="color: black; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b> Look: NO IDEA </b></span></div><div style="color: black; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"></span><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Garnish: NO IDEA</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><b>Satisfaction: NONE</b></span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Rating: TBD (out of 5)</b></span></div></div><b><span style="color: #f1c232; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"></span></b><br />
<b> </b>Christopher Dearmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06322939448473439621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5613285088679144412.post-24097901591591194272010-09-17T18:43:00.004-05:002010-09-25T18:02:44.999-05:00RED OX RESTAURANT & BAR<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ClbZhW-CYvA/TJP78JvRCOI/AAAAAAAAAL8/cBvuSG8pAuA/s1600/2010-09-11_18.27.30.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ClbZhW-CYvA/TJP78JvRCOI/AAAAAAAAAL8/cBvuSG8pAuA/s200/2010-09-11_18.27.30.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><span style="font-size: large;"><b>RED OX RESTAURANT & BAR</b></span><br />
<b>129 E. Oak Knoll Dr. -</b> <b>Hampshire, IL</b><br />
<b>847-683-2300</b><br />
<b><a href="http://www.redoxhampshire.com/">www.redoxhampshire.com</a></b><br />
<b>Date & Time: Saturday 09/11/10 - 6pm</b><b> </b><br />
<b>Atmosphere: Outdoor Patio </b><br />
<b>Price: $4. 75</b><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ClbZhW-CYvA/TJP9AhPklWI/AAAAAAAAAME/TmhIeT0GNVo/s1600/red+ox.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ClbZhW-CYvA/TJP9AhPklWI/AAAAAAAAAME/TmhIeT0GNVo/s200/red+ox.jpg" width="150" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="color: #f1c232; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">My second attempt at getting a Bloody Mary at the Red Ox was a success, and thankfully, it was worth the wait. Wanting to enjoy the good weather before it's gone for the rest of the year, my sister & I took advantage of the big back patio that we had virtually to ourselves, except for a cute elderly couple that turned out to be celebrating a big win at an OTB earlier in the day.</span></span></b><br />
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<b><span style="color: #f1c232; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">When our Bloody Marys arrived, the waiter brought with him a huge bottle of Tabasco sauce, which was a nice touch. This, as well as the nice amount of garnish overflowing from the top of the glass, had me licking my lips with anticipation....</span></span></b><br />
<b><span style="color: #f1c232; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> </span></span></b><br />
<b><span style="color: #f1c232; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"></span></span></b><br />
<a name='more'></a><b><span style="color: #f1c232; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Speaking of the garnish, the olive, pickle, lime slice & celery stalk was definitely adequate, and the nice deep color of the cocktail made the complete package a very attractive picture. After taking a huge swig, it turned out look matched the taste. With enough good spice mixed in the drink, it wasn't even necessary to add heat from the bottle. I would have no problem ordering another one of these in the future.</span></span></b><br />
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<div style="color: black; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>QUICK REVIEW RED OX BLOODY MARY</b></span></div><div style="color: black; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b> Look: ON POINT </b></span></div><div style="color: black; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"></span><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Garnish: SOLID</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><b>Satisfaction: MOST DEFINITELY</b></span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Rating: 3.5 (out of 5) ...BUT VERY CLOSE TO A 4.0</b></span></div></div></div>Christopher Dearmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06322939448473439621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5613285088679144412.post-66276496741898811682010-09-11T01:26:00.003-05:002010-09-17T18:34:09.385-05:00HOULIHAN'S<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ClbZhW-CYvA/TIsfhi7mwYI/AAAAAAAAALs/k5QjKM_gjRY/s1600/2010-09-10_19.12.52.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ClbZhW-CYvA/TIsfhi7mwYI/AAAAAAAAALs/k5QjKM_gjRY/s200/2010-09-10_19.12.52.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><span style="font-size: large;"><b>HOULIHAN'S</b></span><br />
<b>1508 S. Randall Rd. -</b> <b>Algonquin, IL</b><br />
<b>847-658-4560</b><br />
<b><a href="http://www.houlihans.com/">www.houlihans.com</a></b><br />
<b>Date & Time: Friday 09/10/10 </b><br />
<b>Price: $5. 00</b><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ClbZhW-CYvA/TIsg5M49VMI/AAAAAAAAAL0/09DPHvILgIQ/s1600/2010-09-10_18.43.08.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ClbZhW-CYvA/TIsg5M49VMI/AAAAAAAAAL0/09DPHvILgIQ/s200/2010-09-10_18.43.08.jpg" width="150" /></a></div><div style="color: #f1c232; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><span style="font-size: small;">I'm going to keep this one short & give the review about as much time & effort that apparently was given to the creation of this extremely disappointing cocktail. While my disappointment partially may due to the fact that a good friend of mine had highly recommended a Houlihan's Bloody Mary she recently had in Lake Geneva, as I'm sure you can tell by the picture of the one I got in Algonquin - the drink was pretty pathetic.</span></b></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b><span style="font-size: small;">Coming with a single celery stick, the concoction had no heat, no spice, and was very "tomato-e" - in a word, it was just <i>bad.</i> I actually wrote WTF! on my review sheet, and underlined a bunch of other descriptive adjectives...none of which were positive....</span></b></span><br />
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<a name='more'></a><span style="font-size: large;"><b><span style="font-size: small;"></span></b></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b><span style="font-size: small;">The only saving grace to my visit was that the tuna appetizer I had was fantastic, and the cute blond server with the black glasses was very friendly. I've had many pleasant experiences at Houlihan's with no complaints, so I guess I'll just recommend that if you go - order the Bloody Mary at your own risk. What you'll get wholly depends on who's behind the bar making it.</span></b></span><br />
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<div style="color: black; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>QUICK REVIEW HOULIHAN'S BLOODY MARY</b></span></div><div style="color: black; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b> Look: WEAK </b></span></div><div style="color: black; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"></span><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Garnish: LAUGHABLE</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><b>Satisfaction: NONE</b></span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Rating: 1/2 OLIVE (out of 5)</b></span></div></div><span style="font-size: large;"><b></b></span></div>Christopher Dearmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06322939448473439621noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5613285088679144412.post-49550557355080948472010-08-27T15:18:00.033-05:002010-10-09T20:00:31.946-05:00THE WALNUT SPEAKEASY<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ClbZhW-CYvA/THgcq6qa9VI/AAAAAAAAALU/dupX329sgII/s1600/2010-08-26+16.38.15.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ClbZhW-CYvA/THgcq6qa9VI/AAAAAAAAALU/dupX329sgII/s200/2010-08-26+16.38.15.jpg" width="150" /></a></div><span style="font-size: large;"><b>THE WALNUT SPEAKEASY</b></span><br />
<b>214 Walnut Ave. -</b> <b>Elgin, IL</b><br />
<b>847-695-2420</b><br />
<b><a href="http://www.thewalnutspeakeasy.com/">www.thewalnutspeakeasy.com</a></b><br />
<b>Date & Time: Thursday 08/26/10 - 4pm</b><b> </b><br />
<b>Atmosphere: Brick & Wood Restaurant/Bar </b><br />
<b>Price: $5. 00</b> <br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ClbZhW-CYvA/THgdWUuaWCI/AAAAAAAAALc/SZfszhSJ218/s1600/2010-08-26+15.55.05.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ClbZhW-CYvA/THgdWUuaWCI/AAAAAAAAALc/SZfszhSJ218/s200/2010-08-26+15.55.05.jpg" width="150" /></a><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><b><span style="color: #f1c232;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I'm happy to report that I found a damn good Bloody Mary! I don't know why, but I wasn't really expecting much when I first arrived. Maybe because I still have bad memories from years ago when the place was called The Walnut Inn, but boy times have changed...</span></span></b></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><b><span style="color: #f1c232;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> </span></span></b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><b><span style="color: #f1c232;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">The place itself has been totally refurbished. Looking very upscale with the exposed brick & wood decor, the place is very nice. With over a dozen flat-screen TVs, it would be a great place to bring a date for a nice meal - and still get to keep your eye on the game. As for the Bloody Mary...</span></span></b></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><b><span style="color: #f1c232;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"></span></span></b></span><br />
<a name='more'></a><span style="font-size: small;"><b><span style="color: #f1c232;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">The Bloody Mary had a nice rich color, and with first taste I immediately knew I was getting a very good, rock solid Bloody Mary. Coming with a celery stick, olive & pickle medallion - the garnish was solid as well. (but with a couple more goodies, could have gotten a higher rating)</span></span></b></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><b><span style="color: #f1c232;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Overall though, I can't really complain. If your looking for some tasty Bloody Mary goodness at a decent price, The Walnut Speakeasy is well worth taking the time to check out.</span></span></b></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><b><span style="color: #f1c232;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">**On a side note I want to thank George Rogers (no affiliation to the above bar) for generously donating a few bucks to help me on my quest. Thanks George!</span></span></b></span><br />
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<div style="color: black; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>QUICK REVIEW THE WALNUT SPEAKEASY BLOODY MARY</b></span></div><div style="color: black; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b> Look: ROCK SOLID</b></span></div><div style="color: black; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"></span><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Garnish: GOOD, BUT COULD USE A LIL' MORE</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><b>Satisfaction: OH YEAH</b></span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Rating: 4 OLIVES (out of 5)</b></span></div></div><span style="font-size: small;"><b><span style="color: #f1c232;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"></span></span></b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><b><span style="color: #f1c232;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> </span></span></b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><b><span style="color: #f1c232;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> </span></span></b></span>Christopher Dearmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06322939448473439621noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5613285088679144412.post-17901979286356952372010-08-18T15:02:00.007-05:002010-08-31T18:19:32.818-05:00JD's SPORTS BAR & GRILL<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_ClbZhW-CYvA/TGw7mVbjHwI/AAAAAAAAALM/SF1XMfFh8rc/s1600/2010-08-16+20.53.12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_ClbZhW-CYvA/TGw7mVbjHwI/AAAAAAAAALM/SF1XMfFh8rc/s200/2010-08-16+20.53.12.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><span style="font-size: large;"><b>JD's SPORTS BAR & GRILL</b></span><br />
<b>908 W. Riverside Bl. -</b> <b>Rockford, IL</b><br />
<b>815-639-9488</b><br />
<b><a href="http://www.jdssportsbar.com/">www.jdssportsbar.com</a></b><br />
<b>Date & Time: Monday 08/16/10 - 9pm</b><b> </b><br />
<b>Atmosphere: Large Open Space Sports Bar</b><br />
<b>Bartender: Amy</b><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ClbZhW-CYvA/TGw8Nv9EegI/AAAAAAAAALQ/e5IOEbye3R0/s1600/2010-08-16+21.00.03.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ClbZhW-CYvA/TGw8Nv9EegI/AAAAAAAAALQ/e5IOEbye3R0/s200/2010-08-16+21.00.03.jpg" width="150" /></a></div><div style="color: #ffd966; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">At this point in the evening my taste for Bloody Marys was getting thin, but not wanting to waste the opportunity to do another review, I bought one for the group to share. Unfortunately for us, we probably should have called it a night on the Bloody Marys...</span></b></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><b><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">The bar itself is huge. High ceilings, and a ton of room to move around. The place was filled with plenty of flat-screen TVs to catch a game or even play a game yourself. (which we did by playing a game of Bags in the backroom - which is a nice touch)</span></b></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><b><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><a name='more'></a></span></b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><b><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">The bartender was a cute girl with a nice personality, so I was hoping the Bloody Mary was likewise. While it did have a nice kick, the drink itself had a very strong "tomato" taste, which if you know from previous reviews, is something I really can do without. It came with a pickle & 2 olives, but it could have used some much needed horseradish to further cut the tomato taste.</span></b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><b><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> </span></b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><b><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">That said, I liked the fact that it came in a White Sox glass, and the bar was definitely a place I could see myself going to in the future. If I do though, I'll be sticking to </span></b></span><span style="font-size: small;"><b><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> just beer & cocktails...</span></b></span><br />
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<div style="color: black; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>QUICK REVIEW JD's SPORTS BAR & GRILL BLOODY MARY</b></span></div><div style="color: black; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b> Look: TOO THICK</b></span></div><div style="color: black; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"></span><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Garnish: SIMPLE</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><b>Satisfaction: NOT REALLY</b></span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Rating: 2 OLIVES (out of 5)</b></span></div></div></div>Christopher Dearmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06322939448473439621noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5613285088679144412.post-25446423886267021402010-08-18T14:46:00.004-05:002010-08-27T21:27:25.351-05:002ND COUSINS BAR & GRILL<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ClbZhW-CYvA/TGw3pNAlPWI/AAAAAAAAALE/GK09FLaNV5g/s1600/2010-08-16+19.34.39.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ClbZhW-CYvA/TGw3pNAlPWI/AAAAAAAAALE/GK09FLaNV5g/s200/2010-08-16+19.34.39.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><span style="font-size: large;"><b>2ND COUSIN'S BAR & GRILL</b></span><br />
<b>6246 E. Riverside Bl. -</b> <b>Loves Park, IL</b><br />
<b>815-637-2660</b><br />
<b><a href="http://2ndcousinsbarandgrill.com/">www.2ndcousinsbarandgrill.com</a> </b><br />
<b>Date & Time: Monday 08/16/10 - 8pm</b><br />
<b>Atmosphere: Where else? (outdoor patio)</b><br />
<b>Bartender: Bridget? </b><br />
<b>Price: $3. 50</b><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ClbZhW-CYvA/TGw4YQU8zfI/AAAAAAAAALI/k3FYJMBotH4/s1600/2010-08-16+20.26.28.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ClbZhW-CYvA/TGw4YQU8zfI/AAAAAAAAALI/k3FYJMBotH4/s200/2010-08-16+20.26.28.jpg" width="150" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="color: #f1c232; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">The third bar on our pub crawl took us down a ways, and brought us to 2nd Cousin's Bar & Grill - where not only did we find an outdoor patio to relax in, but another $0.35 wing special to boot. Life was good.</span></b><br />
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<b><span style="color: #f1c232; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">After drinking a couple 23oz beers to cleanse the pallet, I asked our waitress Bridget if they made a good Bloody Mary. She of course said yes (they always do) and went off to get more cocktails for all. The place was busy, but not too packed, and I noticed that our waitress was also helping out the bartender behind the bar, so I couldn't be too mad at the lengthy wait at times for some of the drinks to arrive....</span></b><br />
<b><span style="color: #f1c232; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"></span></b><br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
<b><span style="color: #f1c232; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">When my Bloody Mary finally did come, I knew right away that what I was about to get wouldn't measure up to the nights earlier efforts. It came with a sparse 2 olives & a lime wedge, and after getting a real thick "tomato" taste from first drink, I knew it wasn't going to be anything to write home about. It had a little bit of kick, it wasn't terrible, but it wasn't all that great either. If some more time was spent spicing things up a bit, I might be able to bump up the rating, but until then, I would suggest just keeping these to only when you're really hung over. </span><span style="color: #f1c232; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> </span></b><br />
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<b><span style="color: #f1c232; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">One a side note: The wings here were mighty tasty & along with the nice beer specials - the place still comes highly recommended.</span></b><br />
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<div style="color: black; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>QUICK REVIEW 2nd COUSIN'S BAR & GRILL BLOODY MARY</b></span></div><div style="color: black; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b> Look: THICK</b></span></div><div style="color: black; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"></span><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Garnish: WEAK</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><b>Satisfaction: NOT REALLY</b></span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Rating: 2. 5 OLIVES (out of 5) </b></span></div></div><b><span style="color: #f1c232; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> </span></b><b style="color: #ffd966;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></b></div>Christopher Dearmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06322939448473439621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5613285088679144412.post-40764642983152438602010-08-18T14:40:00.006-05:002010-10-09T20:00:49.763-05:00JAX PUB<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ClbZhW-CYvA/TGw2SqKvXWI/AAAAAAAAAK8/EDIuohd5kyM/s1600/2010-08-16+18.41.29.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ClbZhW-CYvA/TGw2SqKvXWI/AAAAAAAAAK8/EDIuohd5kyM/s200/2010-08-16+18.41.29.jpg" width="150" /></a></div><span style="font-size: large;"><b>JAX PUB</b></span><br />
<b>4160 N. Perryville Rd. -</b> <b>Loves Park, IL</b><br />
<b>815-877-0600</b><br />
<b><a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Loves-Park-IL/Jax-Pub/110451944334">Jax Pub Facebook</a> </b><br />
<b>Date & Time Monday 08/16/10 - 6:45pm </b><br />
<b>Atmosphere: Outdoor Patio </b><b> </b><br />
<b>Bartender: Nancy</b><br />
<b>Price: $3. 00!</b><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ClbZhW-CYvA/TGw3GLx7q3I/AAAAAAAAALA/vLYffRf02j8/s1600/2010-08-16+18.54.13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ClbZhW-CYvA/TGw3GLx7q3I/AAAAAAAAALA/vLYffRf02j8/s200/2010-08-16+18.54.13.jpg" width="150" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="color: #ffd966; text-align: left;"><b><span style="color: #ffd966;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">The second stop on the Birthday pub crawl was a little bit down the way to a place called Jax Pub. Sticking with the theme of consuming our beverages outdoors, we found a table outside on the patio virtually all to ourselves & settled down to see what Jax had to offer.</span></span></span></b><br />
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<b><span style="color: #ffd966;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Asking the bartender if she can make a good Bloody Mary, she said yes & asked what I wanted for garnish. Telling her to surprise me, she went off to a backroom to get some ingredients - amping up my anticipation tenfold. When she returned, I'm happy to say that she didn't disappoint....</span></span></span></b><br />
<b><span style="color: #ffd966;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"></span></span></span></b><br />
<a name='more'></a><b><span style="color: #ffd966;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">My first hearty swig brought a good smooth taste, and immediately thought to myself that I would be open to getting one of these in the future. It came with solid garnish basics - 2 olives, a lime wedge, a celery stick & pickle. Nothing to complain about here. The best part was the price. I'm not sure if this was a daily special, or the everyday price, but for three bucks, this tasty concoction is money well spent. Nothing really more to say....</span></span></span></b><br />
<b><span style="color: #ffd966;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> </span></span></span></b><br />
<div style="color: black; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>QUICK REVIEW JAX PUB BLOODY MARY</b></span></div><div style="color: black; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b> Look: APPETIZING</b></span></div><div style="color: black; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"></span><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Garnish: ALL THE BASICS</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><b>Satisfaction: YOU BET</b></span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Rating: 4 OLIVES (out of 5) </b></span></div></div><b><span style="color: #ffd966;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"></span></span></span></b></div>Christopher Dearmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06322939448473439621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5613285088679144412.post-81390296752038836652010-08-18T14:34:00.009-05:002010-09-17T19:47:04.283-05:00RBI'S BAR & GRILL<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ClbZhW-CYvA/TGw0xaobEEI/AAAAAAAAAK0/vO4AeSLdEcU/s1600/2010-08-16+17.38.44.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ClbZhW-CYvA/TGw0xaobEEI/AAAAAAAAAK0/vO4AeSLdEcU/s200/2010-08-16+17.38.44.jpg" width="150" /></a></div><span style="font-size: large;"><b>RBI'S BAR & GRILL</b></span><br />
<b>3870 N. Perryville Rd. -</b> <b>Rockford, IL</b><br />
<b>815-877-5592</b><br />
<b><a href="http://www.rbisbarandgrill.com/">www.rbisbarandgrill.com</a> </b><br />
<b>Date & Time: 08/16/74 - 5:45pm</b><br />
<b>Atmosphere: Rock & Roll Diner/Sports Bar</b><br />
<b>Bartender: Tiffany</b><br />
<b>Price: $5. 00</b><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ClbZhW-CYvA/TGw1iCVw1MI/AAAAAAAAAK4/Ikov1md4ZCU/s1600/2010-08-16+17.47.16.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ClbZhW-CYvA/TGw1iCVw1MI/AAAAAAAAAK4/Ikov1md4ZCU/s200/2010-08-16+17.47.16.jpg" width="150" /></a></div><div style="color: #ffd966; text-align: left;"><div style="color: #f1c232;"><b><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Going on a birthday pub crawl brought me out to the Rockford area, and another opportunity to try & find the allusive perfect Bloody Mary. While I didn't find perfection at any of the four bars we hit that night, one of the night's highlights was found at R.B.I.'s Bar & Grill.</span></span></b></div><div style="color: #f1c232;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #f1c232;"><b><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Wanting to take advantage of beautiful weather, </span></span></b><b><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> after ordering our cocktails, </span></span></b><b><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I went out back to the patio to grab some space for the group</span></span></b><b><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">. At this point I wasn't expecting too much from the Bloody Mary, as I had seen my drink start being constructed with Zing Zang. As I was walking out back though, I noticed the bartender pouring in a splash of Guinness, so I was hoping she might knew a thing or two about jazzing up a pre-made mix....</span></span></b></div><b><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="color: #f1c232;"></span></span></span></b><br />
<a name='more'></a><b><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="color: #f1c232;"><span style="color: #f1c232;">Sitting at one of the the umbrella covered tables, my Bloody Mary is brought to me, and I quickly take a large swig. Surprisingly it was quite tasty, and had a good mix of heat & spice. </span></span></span></span><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="color: #f1c232;"><span style="color: #f1c232;">The three hearty green olives where a nice touch, but it could use a garnish upgrade with a little more variety. I passed the cocktail to a couple of the others, and they echoed my same sentiments. </span></span></span></span></b><br />
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<b><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="color: #f1c232;"><span style="color: #f1c232;">On a side note: We also tried the wings that they had on special, ($0.35 each) and they were quite good. It also helped that the talent they had working at the place was quite attractive. (the hot waitress with the pierced hand could serve me drinks any day!)</span></span></span></span></b><br />
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<div style="color: black; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>QUICK REVIEW R.B.I.'S BLOODY MARY</b></span></div><div style="color: black; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b> Look: STANDARD</b></span></div><div style="color: black; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"></span><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Garnish: COULD USE SOME MORE</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><b>Satisfaction: SURPRISINGLY GOOD</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><b> Rating: 3. 5 OLIVES (out of 5) - COULD HAVE BEEN 4 WITH A GARNISH UPGRADE</b></span></div></div>Christopher Dearmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06322939448473439621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5613285088679144412.post-59970787719589224832010-08-18T14:26:00.004-05:002010-09-17T19:42:42.137-05:00EMMETTS TAVERN & BREWING COMPANY<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ClbZhW-CYvA/TGwyhnyTeyI/AAAAAAAAAKs/AcORo7JyHuk/s1600/2010-08-15+18.02.30.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ClbZhW-CYvA/TGwyhnyTeyI/AAAAAAAAAKs/AcORo7JyHuk/s200/2010-08-15+18.02.30.jpg" width="150" /></a></div><span style="font-size: large;"><b>EMMETT'S TAVERN & BREWING COMPANY</b></span><br />
<b>128 W. Main St. -</b> <b>W. Dundee, IL</b><br />
<b>847-428-4500</b><br />
<b><a href="http://www.emmettsalehouse.com/">www.emmettsalehouse.com</a> </b><br />
<b>Date & Time: Sunday 08/15/10 - 5:15pm</b><br />
<b>Atmosphere: Outdoor sidewalk patio</b><br />
<b>Price: $6 .75</b><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ClbZhW-CYvA/TGwzUCOJNvI/AAAAAAAAAKw/6bCjZ8-LYgs/s1600/2010-08-15+17.19.52.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ClbZhW-CYvA/TGwzUCOJNvI/AAAAAAAAAKw/6bCjZ8-LYgs/s200/2010-08-15+17.19.52.jpg" width="150" /></a></div><div style="color: #ffd966; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">It was a beautiful day in Dundee, and since I was still nursing a two day hangover from Friday's festivities, a Bloody Mary was definitely in order. Not wanting to be stuck inside on a day like this, finding an outdoor patio to imbibe was key, and Emmett's Tavern took care of both of my needs.</span></b></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><b><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">After sitting down on the wrought iron furniture, I ordered a Bloody Mary and relaxed in the summertime air. Enjoying the nice view of Fox River to my right, the waiter came back and placed a Bloody Mary in front of me that I was pretty sure that I would enjoy just as much....</span></b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><b><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"></span></b></span><br />
<a name='more'></a><span style="font-size: small;"><b><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Just looking at the cocktail got my mouth watering. You could see a hearty mix of herbs & spices mixed throughout this tasty looking drink, and I knew I would be getting something better then all the other Dundee area one's I've reviewed so far - by looks alone.</span></b></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><b><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Around the rim the celery salt & herb mix that can be seen throughout the drink continued, and it was topped off with 2 olives & a lime wedge. While the garnish could have been a little more hearty, I was anxious to dig in.</span></b></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><b><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I'm writing this review a week later, have had four other Bloody Marys since, and this one still stands out. I'll be honest, this one has popped into my head often this week, and I've been tempted to go back multiple times already. I'm not sure what all the herbs in the drink consist of, but any bartender that takes pride in making a good Bloody Mary should go get one & steal the idea. The only thing keeping this from being a 4 star Bloody Mary is the price & garnish. Knock off a buck, and add some more garnish goodness, and this one would be near the top. That said, if your looking for a great thirst quencher in Dundee, as of right now, this is the one to get.</span></b></span><br />
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<div style="color: black; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>QUICK REVIEW EMMETT'S TAVERN BLOODY MARY</b></span></div><div style="color: black; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="color: black; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b> Look: BEST YET</b></span></div><div style="color: black; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"></span><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Garnish: COULD USE A LITTLE MORE</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><b>Satisfaction: MOST DEFINITELY</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><b> Rating: 3.5 OLIVES (out of 5)</b></span></div><span style="font-size: small;"><b><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> </span></b></span></div>Christopher Dearmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06322939448473439621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5613285088679144412.post-31145597134688665622010-08-18T14:17:00.003-05:002010-08-20T20:47:42.743-05:00RIVER LEE'S<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_ClbZhW-CYvA/TGwwq4D9VDI/AAAAAAAAAKk/A5-BjZGwHh0/s1600/2010-08-15+18.14.11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_ClbZhW-CYvA/TGwwq4D9VDI/AAAAAAAAAKk/A5-BjZGwHh0/s200/2010-08-15+18.14.11.jpg" width="150" /></a></div><span style="font-size: large;"><b>RIVER LEE'S</b></span><br />
<b>6 E. Main St. -</b> <b>E. Dundee, IL</b><br />
<b>847-428-8020</b><br />
<b><a href="http://chicago.metromix.com/bars-and-clubs/neighborhood_bar/river-lees-dundee/140793/content">River Lee's Metromix</a> </b><br />
<div style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Date & Time: Friday 08/13/10 - 9:15 pm </b></span></div><div style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: small;"></span></div><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Atmosphere: Festive Dive Bar</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><b>Price: Either $5 or $6 (didn't ask for breakdown of multiple drinks)</b></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ClbZhW-CYvA/TGwxi_r5pLI/AAAAAAAAAKo/kuzBMMdC5VM/s1600/2010-08-13+21.21.34.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ClbZhW-CYvA/TGwxi_r5pLI/AAAAAAAAAKo/kuzBMMdC5VM/s200/2010-08-13+21.21.34.jpg" width="150" /></a></div><div style="color: #ffd966; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><span style="color: #f1c232; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Walking across the bridge over the Fox River, the group decided to make a quick pit-stop at River Lee's on our way to meeting up with two other friends at Banditos. Having never been inside the place even though I've lived in the nearby area for over three decades, I was anxious to see what this long time Dundee dive bar would bring.</span></b></span></div><br />
<b><span style="color: #f1c232; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">After opening the imposing dark door I was pleasantly surprised how festive & inviting the place was. Decorated to the hilt with pictures of patrons on the walls & a bunch of Christmas lights - the place gave off good vibes, and I immediately asked myself why I waited so many years to actually venture in....</span></b><br />
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<b><span style="color: #f1c232; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"></span></b><br />
<a name='more'></a><b><span style="color: #f1c232; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Seeing a female bartender that looked to be far from her first tour working behind the bar, I figured she could easily make a good bloody mary, but I asked her anyway. Offering up a yes, I picked out a stool at a wooden table across the bar, and watched her go to work.</span></b><br />
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<b><span style="color: #f1c232; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">She squeezes in some juice from a lime wedge, and sprinkled in some </span></b><b><span style="color: #f1c232; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">salt, pepper, Worcestershire & Tabasco sauce. After pouring in a can of tomato juice, she shook up everything in a shaker, and topped it off with 2 olives & some celery salt directly in the cocktail. The lack of more then just olive garish was noted. </span></b><br />
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<b><span style="color: #f1c232; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"> </span></b><br />
<b><span style="color: #f1c232; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">At first drink I realized that this was going to be nothing to write home about. This was due to the very strong tomato juice taste. I have to give a disclaimer: I absolutely HATE pure tomato juice - it makes my skin crawl. Don't ask me how someone that hates tomato juice can love bloody marys, but I do. Because of this hatred, when pure tomato juice is used instead of a mix, it is an absolute necessity that horseradish is used to cut the tomato taste - and unfortunately with this bloody mary this wasn't the case.</span></b><br />
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<b><span style="color: #f1c232; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">That said, this cocktail has all the makings of potentially being great - so hopefully someone gives them a heads-up that horseradish should be used sooner then later, and that they should add some garnish goodness to the mix. I would love to be able to come back to this place to give their bloody mary a second chance...</span></b><br />
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<div style="color: black; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>QUICK REVIEW RIVER LEE'S BLOODY MARY</b></span></div><div style="color: black; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="color: black; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b> Look: NEEDS SOME WORK</b></span></div><div style="color: black; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"></span><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Garnish: LACKING</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><b>Satisfaction: POTENTIAL FOR GREATNESS</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><b> Rating: 2.5 OLIVES (out of 5)</b></span></div><b><span style="color: #f1c232; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"> </span><br />
</b>Christopher Dearmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06322939448473439621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5613285088679144412.post-36551012808320147782010-08-18T14:05:00.007-05:002010-08-20T19:36:00.498-05:00R BAR & GRILL<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_ClbZhW-CYvA/TGwtCT8066I/AAAAAAAAAKc/vVPQJ8UX9Ks/s1600/2010-08-14+10.01.46.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_ClbZhW-CYvA/TGwtCT8066I/AAAAAAAAAKc/vVPQJ8UX9Ks/s200/2010-08-14+10.01.46.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><span style="font-size: large;"><b>R BAR & GRILL</b></span><br />
<b>101 W. Main St. -</b> <b>W. Dundee, IL</b><br />
<b>847-428-0249</b><br />
<b>Date & Time: 08/13/10 - 8:30pm</b><br />
<b>Atmosphere: Dark Dive Bar</b><br />
<b>Price: $6 .00</b><br />
<a href="http://www.randallroadhouse.com/"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><span style="font-size: small;"></span></b></span></a><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><b> </b></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ClbZhW-CYvA/TGwuqGJKwaI/AAAAAAAAAKg/7RmcS9EkQ8E/s1600/2010-08-13+20.23.12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ClbZhW-CYvA/TGwuqGJKwaI/AAAAAAAAAKg/7RmcS9EkQ8E/s200/2010-08-13+20.23.12.jpg" width="150" /></a></div><div style="color: #ffd966; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Meeting up with a group of girls for a night of bar hopping, I found myself at our first stop in the heart of downtown Dundee. Kiddie corner from the location of one of my former employers, the now defunct Dundee Dollar Theater - R.I.P old friend - R-bar is a local dive that I've been to a handful of times.</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><b>Saddling up to the bar, I sat on a stool & asked the blond bartender if she made a good bloody mary. She replied with an affirmative, and went off to the side to mix my cocktail as I caught some of the Whitesox game on the TV behind the bar. Seeing her pour from a bottled mix, I didn't get my hopes up...</b></span><br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><b>I did see her taking the time to squeeze the juice from each of the lime & lemon wedges into the drink, and one of the girls noticed <span style="font-size: small;"><b>A-1 sauce being mixed in while I was distracted from seeing the Sox losing on TV. </b></span>Besides the fruit, it also came with three small olives & a rim of celery salt. </b></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><b>With first sip my thoughts were surprisingly that it wasn't that bad. It had a nice kick, and the bartender's additions to the pre-made mix helped make the cocktail enjoyable. It was nothing I would go out of my way to drink, but if I was hung over & wanted to catch a game, you could do alot worse.</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><b> </b></span><br />
<div style="color: black; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>QUICK REVIEW R-BAR BLOODY MARY</b></span></div><div style="color: black; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="color: black; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b> Look: DECENT</b></span></div><div style="color: black; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"></span><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Garnish: AVERAGE</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><b>Satisfaction: SURPRISINGLY SO</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><b> Rating: 3.0 OLIVES (out of 5)</b></span></div></div>Christopher Dearmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06322939448473439621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5613285088679144412.post-42990498174378837832010-08-14T11:51:00.008-05:002010-09-17T19:49:52.462-05:00RANDALL ROAD HOUSE<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ClbZhW-CYvA/TGbIjU81PkI/AAAAAAAAAKI/At6e17dqLnU/s1600/ROADHOUSE.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="185" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ClbZhW-CYvA/TGbIjU81PkI/AAAAAAAAAKI/At6e17dqLnU/s200/ROADHOUSE.JPG" width="200" /></a></div><span style="font-size: large;"><b>RANDALL ROAD HOUSE</b></span><br />
<b>2267 Randall Rd. -</b> <b>Carpentersville, IL</b><br />
<b>847-836-3300</b><br />
<a href="http://www.randallroadhouse.com/"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><span style="font-size: small;">www.randallroadhouse.com</span></b></span></a><br />
<div style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Date & Time: Satur</b></span><span style="font-size: small;"><b>day 08/06/10 - </b></span><span style="font-size: small;"><b>4: 30 pm</b></span></div><div style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: small;"></span></div><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Atmosphere: Sports Bar</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><b>Price: $6. 25 </b></span><br />
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<div style="color: #ffd966; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><br />
</b></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #ffd966; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ClbZhW-CYvA/TGwjqgcqgtI/AAAAAAAAAKY/YFPS9J-JSI0/s1600/roadhouse+002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ClbZhW-CYvA/TGwjqgcqgtI/AAAAAAAAAKY/YFPS9J-JSI0/s200/roadhouse+002.jpg" width="150" /></a></div><div style="color: #ffd966; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>I will begin this review with a shout-out to a very generous lady named "Autumn" for being the first person to donate some cash for a Bloody Mary! If you would like to do the same, please hit the DONATE button on the left hand side of the page about half-way down. Thanks again Autumn!!</b></span></div><div style="color: #ffd966; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><br />
</b></span></div><div style="color: #ffd966; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>On with the review of the Randall Road House Bloody Mary. I've been to this establishment a time or two in the past to catch a game (with plenty of flat-screens to watch your game all over the place), but never had the opportunity to try one of their Bloody Marys. After getting a call from some kin to see if I wanted to meet up for a couple pre-drinks before they headed to a friend's wedding. (which is consistent to how most of my extended family rolls - even though they were heading to an open bar...it's never to early to get started) </b></span></div><div style="color: #ffd966; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #ffd966; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>After battling the busy Randall Rd. traffic, I went into the bar to find that it had a pretty decent size crowd. Seeing that my companions had started without me, I asked the waitress if the bartender made a good Bloody Mary. After getting an enthusiastic yes, my mouth started watering in anticipation....</b></span></div><div style="color: #ffd966; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />
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</div><div style="color: #ffd966; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>The Bloody Mary arrived after a little while, and from the looks of it, I knew I would be getting something worthy of being judged. It had an inviting color, and garnish was over-flowing from the celery salted rim. It came 2 olives, lemon & lime wedges, pickle, and celery stalk. </b></span></div><div style="color: #ffd966; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #ffd966; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>At first taste, the Bloody Mary was pretty good, and throughout the rest of the journey it stayed that way. It was a good solid cocktail, and I would be more then happy to order another one on another day. The only thing keeping the rating from being four out of five is the price, but I imagine these things go on special from time to time - so maybe call ahead to see when that may be.</b></span></div><div style="color: #ffd966; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="color: black; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>QUICK REVIEW RANDALL ROAD HOUSE BLOODY MARY</b></span></div><div style="color: black; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b> Look: INVITING</b></span></div><div style="color: black; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"></span><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Garnish: A MOUTHFULL</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><b>Satisfaction: YEP</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><b> Rating: 3. 5 OLIVES (out of 5)</b></span></div><span style="font-size: small;"><b> </b></span></div>Christopher Dearmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06322939448473439621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5613285088679144412.post-47158340346839253922010-08-01T23:10:00.009-05:002010-09-17T19:55:41.498-05:00CRUISIN'<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_ClbZhW-CYvA/TFZDtxYlrRI/AAAAAAAAAJw/GBwzKG6Vp04/s1600/crussin+001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_ClbZhW-CYvA/TFZDtxYlrRI/AAAAAAAAAJw/GBwzKG6Vp04/s200/crussin+001.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><span style="font-size: large;"><b>CRUISIN' </b></span><br />
<b>11 Galligan Rd. -</b> <b>Gilberts, IL</b><br />
<b>847-836-7272</b><br />
<a href="http://www.cruisingilberts.com/"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><span style="font-size: small;">www.cruisingilberts.com</span></b></span></a><br />
<div style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Date & Time: Sunday 08/01/10 - 8:15 pm </b></span></div><div style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: small;"></span></div><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Atmosphere: Auto and Rock & Roll Decor</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><b>Bartender: Kaylin?</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><b>Price:$4.00 special</b></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_ClbZhW-CYvA/TFZFBeVXh8I/AAAAAAAAAJ4/ntkxoUKz2_A/s1600/crussin+004.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_ClbZhW-CYvA/TFZFBeVXh8I/AAAAAAAAAJ4/ntkxoUKz2_A/s1600/crussin+004.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_ClbZhW-CYvA/TFZFBeVXh8I/AAAAAAAAAJ4/ntkxoUKz2_A/s1600/crussin+004.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_ClbZhW-CYvA/TFZFBeVXh8I/AAAAAAAAAJ4/ntkxoUKz2_A/s200/crussin+004.jpg" width="150" /></a></div><span style="font-size: small;"><b> </b></span><br />
<div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><span style="color: #ffd966;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Made a quick stop the other day at this unique establishment on Route 72 in Gilberts on the way home from a dinner out at the parent's house. Seeing that Bloody Marys were one of the day's specials, I figured I made a good call by making this unplanned stop.</span></span></b></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><b><span style="color: #ffd966;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">There was only one other person in the place sitting at the bar when I arrived, so I pretty much had the place to myself. I asked the bartender if she made a good Bloody Mary, (knowing full well I was going to order one either way) and she confidently said she could. I saw her bust out the cocktail shaker & a bunch of ingredients & I knew that potentially I was going to be in for something good....</span></span></b></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><b><span style="color: #ffd966;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">After taking her time mixing the concoction, (which I appreciated) I sat down in back to get down to the business of drinking. </span></span></b></span><span style="font-size: small;"><b><span style="color: #ffd966;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">It came with 2 olives, a lime wedge & a bunch of celery salt around the rim. </span></span></b></span><span style="font-size: small;"><b><span style="color: #ffd966;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">After taking a deep swig, I realized the time she spent making the thing was well worth it. It was a good solid no-nonsense Bloody Mary. If your hung over, or just looking for to sit back & relax with, go check one out for yourself. Nothing really else much more to say about it.</span></span></b></span><br />
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<div style="color: black; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>QUICK REVIEW CRUISIN' BLOODY MARY</b></span></div><div style="color: black; text-align: left;"></div><div style="color: black; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b> Look: SOLID</b></span></div><div style="color: black; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"></span><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Garnish: COULD OF USED A LITTLE MORE</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><b>Satisfaction: YES</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><b> Rating: 3. 0 OLIVES (out of 5)</b></span></div><span style="font-size: small;"><b><span style="color: #ffd966;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"></span></span></b></span></div>Christopher Dearmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06322939448473439621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5613285088679144412.post-59531552054237817962010-08-01T22:37:00.006-05:002010-08-20T19:32:31.904-05:00MAD MAGGIES<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ClbZhW-CYvA/TFYz7aP1vqI/AAAAAAAAAJg/KO6IkCUo5hM/s1600/RASCALSJBSMADM+013.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ClbZhW-CYvA/TFYz7aP1vqI/AAAAAAAAAJg/KO6IkCUo5hM/s200/RASCALSJBSMADM+013.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><span style="font-size: large;"><b>MAD MAGGIES</b></span><br />
<b>51 S. Grove St. -</b> <b>Elgin, IL</b><br />
<b>847-531-5883</b><br />
<a href="http://www.madmaggies.net/"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><span style="font-size: small;">www.madmaggies.net</span></b></span></a><br />
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<div style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Date & Time: Friday 07/23/10 - 6:00 pm </b></span></div><div style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: small;"></span></div><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Atmosphere: Downtown Elgin Patio </b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><b>Bartender: Hot Latina</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><b>Price:$5. 50</b></span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ClbZhW-CYvA/TFY1K0BuBnI/AAAAAAAAAJo/Ip9Se0DCshg/s1600/RASCALSJBSMADM+014.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ClbZhW-CYvA/TFY1K0BuBnI/AAAAAAAAAJo/Ip9Se0DCshg/s200/RASCALSJBSMADM+014.jpg" width="150" /></a></div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><span style="color: #ffd966;">AFTER GETTING AN UNEXPECTED PHONE CALL FROM AN OLD FRIEND THAT LIVES IN CHICAGO TO PICK HIM UP AT THE DOWNTOWN ELGIN TRAIN STATION & MEET UP FOR A FEW COCKTAILS, I TOOK THE OPPORTUNITY TO HOPEFULLY FIND A BETTER BLOODY MARY THEN I GOT EARLIER IN THE DAY AT JBs. SINCE MAGGIES IS ONLY A FEW BLOCKS DOWN THE ROAD, I FIGURED WE'D CHECK THE PLACE OUT WHILE THE SUN WAS STILL SHINING, AS I'VE ONLY BEEN THERE A FEW OTHER TIMES BEFORE LATE NIGHT. </span></b></span></div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><span style="color: #ffd966;">AFTER ENTERING THE PREMISES, WE SAW THE PLACE HAD A DECENT SIZE CROWD WITH WHAT LOOKED TO BE A BUNCH OF HIGH SCHOOL KIDS WAITING TO HEAR A BAND THAT WAS SETTING UP EQUIPMENT ON THE STAGE. EITHER THE PLACE HAD AN 18 & OVER RULE OF SOME SORT, OR FAKE IDs ARE GETTING MUCH EASIER TO GET THESE DAYS - BECAUSE I CAN'T IMAGINE THAT ANY OF THEM WERE OF LEGAL DRINKING AGE. (EITHER THAT OR I JUST RAN INTO A BUNCH OF PEOPLE WITH EXTREMELY GOOD GENES)</span></b></span></div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><span style="color: #ffd966;">AFTER GOING TO THE BACK BAR, I ASKED THE HOT LOOKING BARTENDER IF SHE MADE A GOOD BLOODY MARY. SHE SAID YES, AND I TOLD MY BUDDY THAT THE FIRST ROUND WAS ON HIM FOR GIVING HIM THE FREE CAB RIDE FROM THE TRAIN STATION. I WENT TO GO TAKE A PISS AS SHE MADE THE COCKTAIL, AND AFTER I TOOK CARE OF BUSINESS, I CAME OUT TO HEAR THE BAND PLAYING AT RIDICULOUSLY LOUD DECIBELS....</span></b></span></div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><span style="color: #ffd966;"></span></b></span></div><a name='more'></a><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><span style="color: #ffd966;">REALIZING THERE WAS ABSOLUTELY NO WAY WE WOULD BE ABLE TO CATCH UP ON HOW THE SUMMER WAS TREATING US, AS I COULD BARELY HEAR A WORD MY BUDDY SAID, WE DECIDED TO TAKE OUR DRINKS OUT ON THE PATIO OUT FRONT. WE SAT DOWN AT A TABLE IN THE EMPTY PATIO, WHILE WE WAITED FOR ANOTHER OLD FRIEND TO ARRIVE.</span></b></span></div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><span style="color: #ffd966;"> </span></b></span></div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><span style="color: #ffd966;">TAKING A FIRST SWIG OF MY BLOODY MARY, THE TASTE WAS GOOD. I DON'T KNOW IF IT WAS MADE FROM A MIX OR NOT, BUT IT HAD A LITTLE KICK, AND IMMEDIATELY I DECIDED IT WAS BETTER THEN THE BLOODY MARY I HAD EARLIER, BUT IT WASN'T REALLY NOTHING TO WRITE HOME ABOUT. IT CAME WITH 2 OLIVES, A LIME WEDGE, AND FOR THE FIRST TIME OF MY QUEST, A LEMON WEDGE AS WELL. THE LOOK OF THE DRINK WAS APPETIZING, BUT UNFORTUNATELY, AS SOON AS THE FIRST DRINK WENT DOWN MY THROAT, THE SKY OPENED, AND RAIN STARTED POURING DOWN. </span></b></span></div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><span style="color: #ffd966;">WE TRIED TO KEEP THE DISCUSSION GOING UNDERNEATH THE AWNING, BUT AS SOON AS OUR OTHER BUDDY ARRIVED, WE DECIDED THAT RATHER THEN GO BACK INTO THE RIDICULOUSLY LOUD ATMOSPHERE INSIDE, THAT WE WOULD MAKE A BREAK FOR IT & GO TO THE GASTHAUS A COUPLE BLOCKS AWAY. I SLAMMED THE REST OF MY COCKTAIL, DECIDED IT WAS OVERALL PRETTY DECENT BUT NOTHING SPECIAL, AND MADE THE DECISION TO STICK TO BEER THE REST OF THE EVENING AFTER DRINKING TWO SUB-PAR BLOODY MARYS TODAY.</span></b></span></div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><span style="color: #ffd966;">AS FAR AS THE BAR ITSELF, THE ATMOSPHERE IS PRETTY DAMN GOOD FOR AN ELGIN BAR. (AS LONG AS A BAND ISN'T PLAYING, OR IF THERE IS, YOU ACTUALLY ARE FANS OF THEM.) THE PLACE IS HUGE, HAS THREE LEVELS, AND WHILE THIS INSTANCE WAS NOT THE MOST ENJOYABLE PLACE, I'VE BEEN HERE BEFORE & ENJOYED MYSELF. AS FAR AS THE BLOODY MARY IS CONCERNED, I'D ONLY ORDER ONE AGAIN IF I WAS EXTREMELY HUNG OVER - OR IF THAT HOT BARTENDER WAS MAKING ME ONE IN MY OWN HOME!</span></b></span></div><br />
<div style="color: black; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>QUICK REVIEW MAD MAGGIES BLOODY MARY</b></span></div><div style="color: black; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="color: black; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b> Look: NICE</b></span></div><div style="color: black; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"></span><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Garnish: DIFFERENT</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><b>Satisfaction: SOME</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><b> Rating: 2.0 OLIVES (out of 5)</b></span></div><span style="font-size: small;"><b><span style="color: #ffd966;"> </span></b></span>Christopher Dearmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06322939448473439621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5613285088679144412.post-15222779479512389932010-07-23T17:39:00.007-05:002010-08-01T22:59:55.975-05:00JB'S GRILL & BAR<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ClbZhW-CYvA/TE9e7uTIn-I/AAAAAAAAAJI/B0NljLFUg1I/s1600/RASCALSJBSMADM+007.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ClbZhW-CYvA/TE9e7uTIn-I/AAAAAAAAAJI/B0NljLFUg1I/s200/RASCALSJBSMADM+007.jpg" width="150" /></a></div><span style="font-size: large;"><b>JB's GRILL & BAR</b></span><br />
<b>297 S. McLean Bl. -</b> <b>Elgin, IL</b><br />
<b>847-695-0626</b><br />
<a href="http://jbsgrillandbar.com/"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><span style="font-size: small;">www.jbsgrillandbar.com</span></b></span></a><br />
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<div style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Date & Time: </b></span><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Friday 07/23/10 - </b></span><span style="font-size: small;"><b>1: 00 pm</b></span></div><div style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: small;"></span></div><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Atmosphere: Empty Beer Garden</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><b>Bartender: Diane </b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><b>Price:$6.00? </b></span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ClbZhW-CYvA/TE9f7vPPb2I/AAAAAAAAAJQ/S9fEoUkkknk/s1600/RASCALSJBSMADM+010.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ClbZhW-CYvA/TE9f7vPPb2I/AAAAAAAAAJQ/S9fEoUkkknk/s200/RASCALSJBSMADM+010.jpg" width="150" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><span style="color: #ffd966; font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">After four days of recovering from the Minnesota weekend in which we made an unplanned stop for lunch in Wisconsin Dells on the way home, an ended up partying till sun-up, I finally was well enough to venture out of the house just in time for the weekend. Making plans to meet the ex-wife for lunch & a cocktail, we met at JB's Grill & Bar in Elgin as it was a beautiful day, and I knew there was a beer garden to enjoy.</span></span></b></span></div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><span style="color: #ffd966; font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">Sadly, the beer garden was the only thing I really enjoyed, so I'm going to keep this one short, as I wasn't too impressed...</span></span></b></span></div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><span style="color: #ffd966; font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"></span></span></b></span></div><a name='more'></a><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><span style="color: #ffd966; font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">After ordering a bloody mary from the very friendly bartender Diane, I have to say that my hopes for getting a good one was dashed when she asked me if I wanted a pickle or celery stalk to go with it. Meaning, if I were to say no, there would be no garnish whatsoever to go with the poured mix & a couple dashes of pepper. That is unacceptable in my book. I told her a pickle would do as I at least needed something of taste to stir it, and went off to the back beer garden to look over the lunch menu.</span></span></b></span></div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><span style="color: #ffd966; font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">After taking a hearty swig of what basically was what I like to call "Tabasco water" - I thought to myself at least there was some good music playing. The bloody mary had kick, but as far as taste, there wasn't much to it. There is definite room for improvement. The food itself was OK, and I'll have to say that I did appreciate the "buy one lunch get one lunch free" business card I got when I was leaving, but that said, if I do go back, I won't be getting a bloody mary.</span></span></b></span></div><span style="font-size: small;"><b><span style="color: #ffd966; font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
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<div style="color: black; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>QUICK REVIEW JB'S GRILL & BAR BLOODY MARY</b></span></div><div style="color: black; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="color: black; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b> Look: WEAK</b></span></div><div style="color: black; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"></span><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Garnish: REALLY?</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><b>Satisfaction: NONE</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><b> Rating: 1. 5 OLIVES (out of 5)</b></span></div></div>Christopher Dearmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06322939448473439621noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5613285088679144412.post-22683522274090228822010-07-23T14:56:00.001-05:002010-07-26T21:01:08.740-05:00COMPUTER DOWN!I went on a weeklong bender partying in three different states to come home & find my computer is on the fritz.(just another thing to add to my list of unforeseen drama in the last few months) Since I'm currently using some free-wi & have a bunch of kids yelling behind me, I'm going to wait until the new modem arrives sometime next week before updating this thing.<br />
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Rest assure, I'm still drinking bloody marys & will be sharing my thoughts soon!Christopher Dearmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06322939448473439621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5613285088679144412.post-46745651607412708972010-07-17T21:30:00.004-05:002010-08-12T20:14:57.572-05:00PLUMS NEIGHBORHOOD GRILL & BAR<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ClbZhW-CYvA/TE5C5cGaeSI/AAAAAAAAAIs/sDsx3NM9u-E/s1600/PLUMS.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ClbZhW-CYvA/TE5C5cGaeSI/AAAAAAAAAIs/sDsx3NM9u-E/s200/PLUMS.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><span style="font-size: large;"><b>PLUMS NEIGHBORHOOD GRILL & BAR</b></span><br />
<b>480 Snelling Ave South -</b> <b>ST. Paul, MN</b><br />
<b>651-699-2227</b><br />
<a href="http://www.myspace.com/plumsbar"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><span style="font-size: small;">PLUMS MYSPACE</span></b></span></a><br />
<div style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Date & </b></span><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Time: </b></span><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Saturday 07/17/10 - </b></span><span style="font-size: small;"><b>4:45 pm</b></span></div><div style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: small;"></span></div><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Atmosphere: Bar, Grill & Beer garden</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><b>Bartender: Alex </b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><b>Price: No idea</b></span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_ClbZhW-CYvA/TE5ElloqNpI/AAAAAAAAAI0/dwoIybHTFsE/s1600/PLUM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_ClbZhW-CYvA/TE5ElloqNpI/AAAAAAAAAI0/dwoIybHTFsE/s200/PLUM.jpg" width="150" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #ffd966;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b><span style="font-size: small;">I know this place technically isn't in the Chicagoland area, but being I was up north to catch the Whitesox/Twins series (which being they lost 3 of 4 I should have saved the money on tickets & just watched them at a bar), I thought I'd see what Minnesota brought to the table as far as a bloody mary. </span></b></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #ffd966;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b><span style="font-size: small;">After getting "iced" (<i>Iced</i> is a game where one is ridiculed & made to get down on one knee & chug a Smirnoff Ice if presented with one unexpectedly) by the bartender Alex by means of a discreet phone call from one of my buddies before we arrived, I asked if he made a good bloody mary....</span></b></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #ffd966;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b><span style="font-size: small;"></span></b></span></span></span><br />
<a name='more'></a><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #ffd966;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b><span style="font-size: small;">Alex informed me that they have a small bloody mary bar off in the corner, but since that sort of defeats the purpose of judging these things, I asked if he could do the creation for me. </span></b></span></span><span style="color: #ffd966;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b><span style="font-size: small;">After a few minutes he placed down the beverage, and to my delight, I saw that it came with a beer back chaser! </span></b></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #ffd966;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b><span style="font-size: small;">A beer back chaser is one of the beautiful things about a bloody mary that unfortunately Illinois can't provide. (some kind of law against it) I have found that if you order a bloody mary virtually at any Wisconsin bar (and I'm guessing Minn. as well), you will always get a beer of some sort to go with it. I've gotten beer back in small glasses, 6 oz cans, and even full sized bottles. It goes especially well if you order a spicy bloody mary, as you can break the taste-buds up intermittently, without ponying up for another drink to go with it. </span></b></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #ffd966;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b><span style="font-size: small;">After the excitement of finally getting a beer back for the first time of my quest, I then moved on to checking out the bloody mary itself - and the garnishment did not disappoint. It came with a lime wedge, 2 olives, 2 cubes of some sort of white cheese, one cube of chedder cheese, 2 small beef sticks (which were quite good) and rimmed with celery salt. Definitely a nice array of garnishment goodness.</span></b></span></span></span><br />
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After taking a few hearty swigs, the bloody mary itself tasted pretty good. Taking everything into consideration, - I would not hesitate to order another one next time I'm up for a weekend bender. </span></b></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #ffd966;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></b></span></span></span><br />
<div style="color: black; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>QUICK REVIEW PLUMS BLOODY MARY</b></span></div><div style="color: black; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="color: black; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b> Look: HEARTY</b></span></div><div style="color: black; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"></span><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Garnish: TOP NOTCH</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><b>Satisfaction: SOLID</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><b> Rating: 3. 5 OLIVES (out of 5)</b></span></div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #ffd966;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b><span style="font-size: small;"></span></b></span></span></span></div>Christopher Dearmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06322939448473439621noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5613285088679144412.post-37737409615866936192010-07-13T20:45:00.003-05:002010-08-01T22:59:26.376-05:00RASCALS BAR & GRILL<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_ClbZhW-CYvA/TE40k9Z5EnI/AAAAAAAAAIc/thYioMZwzAM/s1600/RASCALSJBSMADM+001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_ClbZhW-CYvA/TE40k9Z5EnI/AAAAAAAAAIc/thYioMZwzAM/s200/RASCALSJBSMADM+001.jpg" width="150" /></a></div><span style="font-size: large;"><b>RASCALS BAR & GRILL </b></span><br />
<b>5223 Torque Rd -</b> <b>Loves Park, IL</b><br />
<b>815-636-9207</b><br />
<a href="http://www.rascalsbargrill.com/"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><span style="font-size: small;">www.rascalsbargrill.com</span></b></span></a><br />
<div style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Date & Time: </b></span><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Wednesday 07/13/10</b></span><span style="font-size: small;"><b> - 8:30 pm</b></span></div><div style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b></b></span></div><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Atmosphere: Sports Bar mixed with Little Rascal Decor</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><b>Bartender: Didn't bother to ask</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><b>Price: Free (father paid)</b></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ClbZhW-CYvA/TE41vtvpB3I/AAAAAAAAAIk/NIlTNI8gn30/s1600/RASCALSJBSMADM+005.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ClbZhW-CYvA/TE41vtvpB3I/AAAAAAAAAIk/NIlTNI8gn30/s200/RASCALSJBSMADM+005.jpg" width="150" /></a></div><span style="font-size: small;"><b><span style="color: #ffd966;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I found myself getting my next bloody mary at this out of the the way joint after watching my nephew's little league baseball game with some of my family. Deciding to grab a late dinner to celebrate my nephew's good game, as well as one of my young niece's dolls birthdays, (don't ask, but you'll know I'm not making this up if you look closely in the picture's background) I ordered a bloody mary from the cute waitress, waiting for some surprisingly affordable pizza, and hoped for the best.</span></span></b></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><b><span style="color: #ffd966;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Looking around, there is a nice atmosphere of a sports bar, with the added bonus of some old-school Little Rascal decor on the walls. I could see this place being a fun place to catch a game during football season, or even a weekend hangout to party with the locals. That said, anytime you go, skip the bloody mary & grab a beer or cocktail....</span></span></b></span><br />
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<a name='more'></a><span style="font-size: small;"><b><span style="color: #ffd966;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">My first impression is that the bloody mary tasted like tabasco water, and it had that 'watery' consistency that just makes for a dull drink. It wasn't terrible by any means, but there really wasn't any bloody mary goodness either. Overall it was really nothing special, so I don't really have much more to say about it. </span></span></b></span><br />
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<div style="color: black; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>QUICK REVIEW RASCALS BAR & GRILL BLOODY MARY</b></span></div><div style="color: black; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="color: black; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b> Look: BLAND</b></span></div><div style="color: black; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"></span><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Garnish: BASIC</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><b>Satisfaction: NOT REALLY</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><b> Rating: 2 OLIVES (out of 5)</b></span></div>Christopher Dearmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06322939448473439621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5613285088679144412.post-84992002134597851662010-07-11T22:00:00.003-05:002010-08-01T22:59:13.337-05:00DOUGLAS STREET SPORTS BAR & GRILL<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ClbZhW-CYvA/TDtl_Yv4XyI/AAAAAAAAAIM/RA0SDejzdcI/s1600/DOUGLAS+001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ClbZhW-CYvA/TDtl_Yv4XyI/AAAAAAAAAIM/RA0SDejzdcI/s200/DOUGLAS+001.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><span style="font-size: large;"><b>DOUGLAS STREET SPORTS BAR & GRILL </b></span><br />
<b>231 Douglas Street -</b> <b>Elgin, IL</b><br />
<b>847-695-5659</b><br />
<a href="http://douglasstreetsportsbar.com/"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><span style="font-size: small;">www.douglasstreetsportsbar.com</span></b></span></a><br />
<div style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Date & Time: </b></span><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Sunday 07/11/10 - </b></span><span style="font-size: small;"><b>6:45 pm</b></span></div><div style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Price: $5. 00</b></span></div><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Atmosphere: Sports Bar </b></span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_ClbZhW-CYvA/TDtnCyL0oTI/AAAAAAAAAIU/KGiXc4EHyII/s1600/DOUGLAS+005.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_ClbZhW-CYvA/TDtnCyL0oTI/AAAAAAAAAIU/KGiXc4EHyII/s200/DOUGLAS+005.jpg" width="150" /></a></div><span style="font-size: small;"><b><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="color: #ffd966;">After yesterdays fantastic bloody mary, I tried to go into this establishment with an open mind. I had been here a couple times in the past couple months ever since I heard about everything being half-off on Sundays. While I had yet to try their bloody mary, I knew that even if it wasn't up to yesterday's standards, that I would at least enjoy the tasty wings I've had previously - and that it wouldn't cost too much too boot.</span></span></b></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><b><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="color: #ffd966;">It was rainy, so drinking out back on the patio was out, but being I was still content to hopefully catching some sports highlights from the earlier WhiteSox game where they blasted 5 home runs to take a hold of first place. </span></span></b></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><b><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="color: #ffd966;">After ordering a bloody mary from the waitress at the bar, I found myself annoyed that the sports highlights were being drowned out my someone who decided to play a Marilyn Manson song that blared out of the speakers. I took a hearty swig of my drink, and my annoyance continued...</span></span></b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><b><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="color: #ffd966;"></span></span></b></span><br />
<a name='more'></a><span style="font-size: small;"><b><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="color: #ffd966;">After seeing her pour in a pre-made mix, my hopes weren't the highest, and after only getting 2 small olives & a lime wedge - I knew I'd have to order wings as well to help with the hunger. In a nutshell, it wasn't too flavorful, and no kick whatsoever. The only savor my tongue got as far as taste was from the celery salt around the rim.</span></span></b></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><b><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="color: #ffd966;">After getting to the bottom, I did notice that there was a bit of a BBQ sauce taste in the thickness of the mix. While I did stir the drink before tasting, I think things may have turned out better if the drink was shaken in a cocktail mixer before it arrived. I do have to say though that the BBQ Chipolte wings didn't disappoint.</span></span></b></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><b><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="color: #ffd966;">Besides the sub-standard drink, another thing that DID disappoint was when I got the bill. Seeing that everything was full price, I asked the bartender what happen to everything being half off. She informed me that the promotion was only for two months, and that it had expired. (Even though a female patron told me it was still promoted in the ladies bathroom) This did little to help the overall experience.</span></span></b></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><b><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="color: #ffd966;">So while it looks to be a great place to catch a game on numerous flat screens, (as long as they cut the jukebox off) and the wings definitely get a thumbs up, as far as the bloody mary goes, I can't say that I would order one again.</span></span></b></span><br />
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<div style="color: black; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>QUICK REVIEW DOUGLAS STREET BLOODY MARY</b></span></div><div style="color: black; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="color: black; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b> Look: DRAB</b></span></div><div style="color: black; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"></span><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Garnish: WEAK</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><b>Satisfaction: NOT MUCH</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><b> Rating: 2 OLIVES (out of 5)</b></span></div><span style="font-size: small;"><b><br />
</b></span>Christopher Dearmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06322939448473439621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5613285088679144412.post-33428050388203117922010-07-10T21:49:00.013-05:002010-09-17T19:38:49.306-05:00RIVERVIEW RESTAURANT & TAVERN<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ClbZhW-CYvA/TDkul5tNlhI/AAAAAAAAAH8/iQmKLHipLp0/s1600/algonquin+013.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ClbZhW-CYvA/TDkul5tNlhI/AAAAAAAAAH8/iQmKLHipLp0/s200/algonquin+013.jpg" width="150" /></a></div><span style="font-size: large;"><b>RIVERVIEW RESTAURANT & TAVERN </b></span><br />
<b>1320 S. Main Street -</b> <b>Algonquin, IL</b><br />
<b>847-658-5200</b><br />
<a href="http://www.riverviewpizza.net/rvr/"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><span style="font-size: small;">www.riverviewpizza.net</span></b></span></a><br />
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<div style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Date & Time:Satur</b></span><span style="font-size: small;"><b>day 07/10/10 - </b></span><span style="font-size: small;"><b>6:15 pm</b></span></div><div style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Price: $5. 00</b></span></div><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Bartender: Jaime</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><b>Atmosphere: Screen Patio </b></span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ClbZhW-CYvA/TDkvbZU9SrI/AAAAAAAAAIE/7b2PLB3CtMQ/s1600/algonquin+015.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ClbZhW-CYvA/TDkvbZU9SrI/AAAAAAAAAIE/7b2PLB3CtMQ/s200/algonquin+015.jpg" width="150" /></a></div><span style="font-size: small;"><b><span style="color: #ffd966; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">This Bloody Mary made my day, so I'm going to call it a night, write my review tomorrow, and dream about the yummy goodness this Bloody Mary provided in the meantime. </span></b></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><b><span style="color: #ffd966; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Check back for a more in depth review, but trust me, if your hankering for a damn good Bloody Mary...get your ass over to RiverView right now before the cute waitress Jamie that served up this delicious concoction leaves for the evening!</span></b></span><br />
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<div style="color: #ffd966; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b>UPDATE: Getting back to the review of the best Bloody Mary I've found since starting my quest....</b></div><br />
<a name='more'></a><b style="color: #ffd966;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">We arrived at Riverview after getting mixed results on the earlier two attempts at other establishments. Upon walking in the doors, we immediately were hit with the pleasant aroma of food being served from the restaurant area to the right, but instead took a left into the bar for some liquid refreshments. </span></b><br />
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<b style="color: #ffd966;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">After noticing the screened-in porch out front was empty, we gave the cute bartender our drink order, and said we would be drinking them outside. While she quickly poured my sister a beer & made my cousin a Mai Tai (which after taking a swig was found pretty tasty in itself) the bartender informed us to go ahead and sit out front, because she didn't want us to have to stand there while she took the time to create the Bloody Mary. I</span></b> <b style="color: #ffd966; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">took this as a good sign.</b><br />
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<b style="color: #ffd966; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">A few minutes later the Bloody Mary was delivered to the table, and from the looks of it, I knew I was in store for a much better experience then the "Hawaiian Punch" looking thing I had got from the bar down the road. Turns out this was definitely the case...</b><br />
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<b style="color: #ffd966; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Coming served with 4 pickle medallions, 2 olives, lime wedge, a pepperoncini</b><b> <span style="color: #ffd966; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">& rimmed with celery salt, I took a hearty swig. My response was <i>"That's pretty damn good!"</i> I took another drink to make sure I wasn't just compensating for the last debacle, and it tasted even better then the first. It indeed was VERY good.</span></b><br />
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<b><span style="color: #ffd966; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">With visible spices seen in the thick tomato juice, it gave each drink the perfect "kick" - and kept leaving my mouth wanting more. There isn't much more that I can say except that this was by far the best tasting bloody mary I've had since I started this blog, and for five bucks - can't think of a better bargain if your in the mood for some Bloody Mary goodness.</span></b><br />
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<div style="color: black; text-align: center;"></div><div style="color: black; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>QUICK REVIEW RIVERVIEW BLOODY MARY</b></span></div><div style="color: black; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="color: black; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b> Look: SOLID</b></span></div><div style="color: black; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"></span><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Garnish: PICKLES TO THE HILT</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><b>Satisfaction: TREMENDOUS</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><b> Rating: 4. 5 OLIVES (out of 5)</b></span></div><span style="font-size: small;"><b><span style="color: #ffd966; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> </span></b></span>Christopher Dearmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06322939448473439621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5613285088679144412.post-37388873944276807412010-07-10T21:32:00.003-05:002010-08-01T22:58:44.826-05:00BULLWINKLE'S<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_ClbZhW-CYvA/TDkoJhYTwcI/AAAAAAAAAHs/9WR6q4JK0H4/s1600/algonquin+009.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_ClbZhW-CYvA/TDkoJhYTwcI/AAAAAAAAAHs/9WR6q4JK0H4/s200/algonquin+009.jpg" width="150" /></a></div><span style="font-size: large;"><b>BULLWINKLE'S </b></span><br />
<b>7 S. Main Street -</b> <b>Algonquin, IL</b><br />
<b>847-658-3440</b><br />
<a href="http://chicago.metromix.com/bars-and-clubs/bar/bullwinkles-algonquin/140777/content"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><span style="font-size: small;">Bullwinkle's Metromix</span></b></span></a><br />
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<div style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Date & Time: </b></span><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Saturday 07/10/10 - </b></span><span style="font-size: small;"><b>5:30 pm</b></span></div><div style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Price: $6. 00</b></span></div><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Bartender: Steve</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><b>Atmosphere: Dive Bar</b></span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ClbZhW-CYvA/TDkpW1kRz6I/AAAAAAAAAH0/tbyTlaKs3Fw/s1600/algonquin+011.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ClbZhW-CYvA/TDkpW1kRz6I/AAAAAAAAAH0/tbyTlaKs3Fw/s200/algonquin+011.jpg" width="150" /></a></div><span style="font-size: small;"><b><span style="color: #ffd966;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">After leaving Port Edwards we decided to walk across the street over to Route 31 to check out what a dive bar could offer us as far as a bloody mary. To say this was a mistake would be an understatement...</span></span></b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><b><span style="color: #ffd966;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> </span></span></b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><b><span style="color: #ffd966;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">After asking the quirky bartender Steve if he made a good bloody mary, we sat down on the stools underneath a real stuffed moose head, and checked out the scenery. The whimsical decorum of painted Rocky & Bullwinkle art brought about a smile, but this was quickly turned upside down when I saw the Hawaiian Punch looking drink that was placed before me. </span></span></b></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><b><span style="color: #ffd966;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Not having ANY garnishment, and basically just some well vodka mixed with Clamato juice & a splash of Worcestershire</span></span></b></span><span style="font-size: small;"> <b style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="color: #ffd966;">sauce, the bloody mary - if you could call it that - was pretty disgusting. </span></b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><b style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="color: #ffd966;"> </span></b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><b style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="color: #ffd966;">Not wanting to waste anymore time drinking this concoction, I held my nose & slammed it down. Luckily Steve offered up some freshly popped popcorn to kill the taste in my mouth, and needless to say that if I were to return, beer would be the drink of choice.</span></b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><b style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="color: #ffd966;"> </span></b></span><br />
<div style="color: black; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>QUICK REVIEW BULLWINKLE'S BLOODY MARY</b></span></div><div style="color: black; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="color: black; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b> Look: FRUIT PUNCH</b></span></div><div style="color: black; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"></span><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Garnish: WHITE STRAW</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><b>Satisfaction: YUCK</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><b> Rating: 0 OLIVES (out of 5)</b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="color: #ffd966;"> </span></b></span></div>Christopher Dearmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06322939448473439621noreply@blogger.com0