I frequently stay at The Old Mill for events or a simple retreat and touristy visit for the city. Home Smith is the bar/lounge and it has a lot of things going for it, with a few detractors.
The Goods
- The atmosphere is great. Comfy seating, nooks and crannies to retreat into, a fireplace, classic decor, and a good view of the river (though it could benefit from larger windows)
- They have great food. The food here is better than the main restaurant actually. The macaroni and cheese is great on a cool day, the steak frites is fantastic, and the calamari is great for sharing
- They have some unique cocktails, though some with a pretty hefty price tag
- Live Jazz. They have jazz events throughout the year and the music is very good - though get there early to you can sit further back - because it's loud at the bar
- the bathroom has the prettiest sink I've ever seen
The cons
- Two beers: Guinness and Stella? Come on now, grow with the times and get something craft or at least unique. It's pretty clear someone said "let's get a dark beer and let's get a light beer". You were happy to see these duo in a bar 20 years ago, but times be a changing
- the cocktail menu is pretty pricey and gets old fast. It needs an update.
Anyways - Enjoy. It's a pretty classy place and a nice retreat.