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| - I'll get to the real review soon but have to start with my most recent visit.
It was a long day, probably 12 plus hours at work and I was starving. I figured SouthSide wouldn't be too busy knowing the neighborhood very well and was able to roll right in and down to a bar stool without problem. The food here is pretty solid and service typically consistent. Unfortunately this night was the exception.
I sat at the bar...and waited. I could see the bartender at the end of the bar, but with her back to the entire room I couldn't tell you what she was doing. I could tell you what she wasn't doing, which was servicing any of the customers. I sat for about 10 minutes, not a hello, not a water, not a look in my direction. It was when the woman next to me volunteered she'd been waiting for at least five minutes before I sat down for her check that I walked out. Best part was no one even noticed (or cared).
I haven't been back since I don't think I will. Seeing as I dine out 5 days a week I know better quality and I left there thinking this place must think itself just too cool for me.
As for my other experiences (at least 6 or 7 previous visits) I can say this.
The atmosphere is good to great. Cozy, cool, calm and the patio wonderful. The location is ideal and I've had some great table service (though never great bar service).
The food is gastro-pub to enlightened bar food. It's fair to above average and the chicken and waffles used to be good but was definitely changed in recent memory. It was one of their best dishes and unfortunately isn't the same. That said I'd recommend Deagen's always over South Side for that dish. The wings are solid and above average but not worth driving too. The appetizers good but again not great. I'd say my favorite dish is the Mac and Cheese with chicken. Rich, creamy, and delicious.
So if you're looking for fair prices and unpretentious food in Tremont I'd make this an option. The location is ideal and that patio is great but do yourself a favor and consider the Tremont Tap House instead. It wins in every category expect atmosphere but far exceeds in ambiance, taste, service and beer selection.
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