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| - When looking for a lunch spot in or near the Shadyside area, The Fire Side Public House came to mind. I've wanted to give it a try since it opened because I heard good things. I was worried that it might be busy after reading a few other reviews, but the place was pretty empty when I met my brother on a Tuesday afternoon.
While waiting at the bar, I ordered the Bacon and Crab Hush Puppies. I was informed shortly after placing my order that they were out of the Cajun Mousse they are typically served on. I was fine with that, and the cook offered to give me a few of their sauces to try instead. The hush puppies were good, nice and crunchy on the outside but lukewarm in the center. I thought they could have been hotter. I did like trying the different sauces and the Siracha aioli was my favorite with the hush puppies. The cook said that was his favorite, too, when he inquired about my feelings regarding the sauces. Once my brother arrived, we ordered up a couple burgers. My brother went with the Breakfast Burger, I went with the Fire Side. The burger itself (grass-fed beef) was the highlight for me though it was a bit overcooked (I ordered medium but there was no pink in the middle). Unfortunately the bun was not sturdy enough to support said burger and fell apart before I was done.
There's definitely that wood-fired smell, but, well, it's in the name so you shouldn't be surprised. Knowing this is their cooking method should also explain the wait. They do have their own parking lot which is a plus. Though this was my first visit, I should mention their menu does change. I'm not sure how frequently, but they previously offered a shrimp and grits plate that is no longer available. A couple seated next to me left when they discovered this.
I have mixed feelings. The draft list is above average. The food is okay. The service is great. (Our server didn't charge me for a beer because they were out of the mousse for the hush puppies.) I liked Fire Side Public House but there were too many hiccups for it to be my first choice next time I'm in the neighborhood.
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