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| - I have been to Beer Engine lots of times; it's basically a Lakewood staple. So my review isn't based on one single visit but my general knowledge of the establishment. Most of my experiences have been golden, but every place has their off days. Let's break it down, shall we?
As my employer says, here are the areas of opportunity:
This place is always packed on weekend evenings or during sporting events. It can be very difficult to find a seat, especially if you come with a group. You may even have to wait around and stalk another table/seat at the bar before you can claim it. But move fast, because it can get pretty competitive.
When it's busy like that, the service struggles to keep up. You will get your food & drinks... but you likely won't have a designated bar tender or server. Don't expect eye contact. They are in a hurry, there are lots of hungry and thirsty people to serve! Just be thankful you got what you needed.
I don't think the service is intentionally impersonal, it's just kind of survival mode here. You may have to catch someone's attention to get another beer or place your order. That's just how it is.
Strengths:
Beer Engine is good bar food. The burgers are inventive and yummy. A favorite of mine is the West Side Burger which is topped with a pierogi and sour cream. I mean, come on! That is just sooooo the west side of Cleveland! This would be a great place to bring someone who is visiting Cleveland and wants to really experience the culture. Maybe not the foodie scene, but this food feels distinctly Cleveland to me.
There are lots of fried foods to indulge in, in typical bar fashion. Burgers are served with a deep fried pickle too. Ugh, and they have poutine on their menu! *drool* I had fried macaroni and cheese here for the first time in my life... and that's not something you forget.
Another reason to go to Beer Engine is their massive beer selection. Lots of craft beers available on tap. I know you can get that lots of places, but that happens to be one of their qualities.
Beer engine has a private parking lot. FULL STOP.
That's not something you come by often in this neck of the woods. Especially at a bar.
And lastly, Beer Engine is just a fun place. Yes, it's dark and sticky and you may have to stare down a lingering table so you can get a seat... but once you do, you will have fun. It's crowded but there are lots of warm community vibes. The food is comforting. There's lots of beer to drink. You feel like family. You feel like you belong. It's all good.
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