It was hard to come up with a star rating for good 'ol Jake's.
The food is good but typical pub fare. They're known for their ribs which ARE excellent but can be hit or miss in terms of consistency. One day they'll be 5 star ribs, the next they'll be 3.
For me what really elevates Jake's from a 3 star to a 4 star establishment is the staff and the management. This is not a franchise pub, this is a place where they will learn your name if you're a regular. This is a place where if your server has a big smile when they see you it's because they're having a good time at their job, (either that or they do a good job faking it).
This is also a fine venue for live music and have been known to feature some truly talented local bands. Also a great place to watch a game over a pint.
If you are going to a Kelsey's or Caisey's, or Jack Astor's, or any of the generic bar/grills in the area just know that you could be getting superior food in a superior atmosphere just down the road at Jake's Boathouse.