Birch Lodge
732 Michigan St (Grand Rapids, MI)
Occupancy: 100
Thursday, 26December2024
Rating: 4/5
This place, I like. And not just for their good reputation for wings. I was literally salivating on the drive over. I had a really good conversation with the bartender, about the books: Secret Life of Bees, Educated, and Glass Castle. She filled my coke up then waited patiently for the bubbles to die down in order to fill to the top of the glass. I chuckled about it but I really did appreciate her small example of good hospitality. Later on I heard her talking to another patron that there are holes in the floor and they just put pieces of metal over them. And then put rugs over that. She said, well those metal pieces are gonna get wet, and when they slip…then shrugged her shoulders and laughed. The bathrooms could use a remodel. Otherwise I really like the place.
www.freebeerandwings.com
Relish (Kensington Hotel)
610 Hilton BLVD (Ann Arbor, MI)
Occupancy: 150
Wednesday, 21November2024
Rating: 3.5/5
I walked in about 845AM. The place was empty, but I was greeted warmly. I was seated in a booth by a window-first snow! So it was a nice view. A waiter came immediately over and took my order. I ordered 2 sunny side up eggs, which tasted great, bacon which was crispy and phenomenal, and hashbrowns which were just okay. The toast was burnt. Overall, it was a very good breakfast and I am quite satisfied.
www.freebeerandwings.com
Bomber Restaurant
306 E Michigan Ave. (Ypsilanti, MI)
Occupancy: 101
Wednesday, 20November2024
Rating: 2/5
Seems to be the only restaurant around that is open at this time. Which is surprising because its 1030AM. I’m humbled by this area. This seems like a pretty cool restaurant though. I can already see its a staple of the neighborhood. It seems like this place has some good history. There are WW2 airplanes hanging from the ceiling all over the place. Not much airspace left! And war memorabilia and old propaganda posters. The waitresses seem to be good-spirited and I think that goes a long way wherever you’re at. Their coffee was average, which is good in my book! The sunny side up eggs tasted a little funny, but not really in a bad way. Had me wondering about the day-to-day activities of these particular chickens… Dipped my toast and bacon in them as I so often do. The bacon was cooked to a good crisp but was too salty. The hashbrowns were pretty flavorless, even with ketchup. That was disappointing. Bomber, although seemingly rich with history, could use some updating around the building.
(***NOT PART OF THE REVIEW***On my way to the restaurant, passing by some Eastern Michigan University sororities and fraternities. I saw a big electrical junction box off side of road with large letters spray painted “Sodomy Forever”. After I am done here, im going to the store to buy grey spray paint. But I would think the people of this town would want to get rid of that… just absolutely disgusted. Have some respect for yourselves)
www.freebeerandwings.com
Anna’s House
2409 E Beltline Ave. (Grand Rapids, MI)
Occupancy: 150
Saturday, 16November2024
Rating: 4.5/5
What a fantastic breakfast I had. All around everything was great. The only thing I can think of that would be any sort of demerit: there were a couple stains on the table at the booth I was at.
I walked in this place at 6AM on the dot, which is when they open. They received me warmly and told me to sit anywhere I like. They offered coffee, and orange juice-freshly squeeeezed. I came in a little groggy but the waitress was just so darn nice and energetic, i couldn’t help but crack a smile. That’s what I call uplifting. I just got a regular breakfast sunny side up eggs, white toast, hash browns and bacon. It came out fast and it was all really good.
www.freebeerandwings.com
Buddy’s Pizza
4061 28th St. (Grand Rapids, MI)
Occupancy: 186
Saturday, 02November2024
Rating: 1.5/5
Before I rip into them, I will say that their pizza is really good.
Their bartenders though, I was very un-impressed with, on multiple occasions. The few times I’ve been there, myself and other patrons have gone in there to watch a sports game. The bartenders have no idea what is going on in the Sports World. The games should already be on the tv. But they have video reels of cats and people falling or tripping or getting pranked and every time I’ve gone in, they say they don’t know how to change the tv. In the google description of this place it says HIGHLIGHTS: GOOD FOR WATCHING SPORTS. Yet, 3 different female bartenders didn’t give a crap. They don’t have enough tv’s either. If you’re gonna call yourself a sports bar, then cater to your customers properly! The thing I had the biggest issue with is one of the bartenders had an attitude and kept trying to get me to buy alcoholic beverages. I kept saying I was good for now, but she kept coming up to me and asking-with an attitude. She was also dressed in heavy goth with lots of dark makeup and face piercings-which is fine. Self-expression is a beautiful thing and I respect it. But how appropriate is it to dress like that at a family sports bar? Anyways, I understand she is just trying to make as much money as possible-like everybody else but you’ve got to have grace, patience and understanding in the service industry- if you want to be successful. And maybe you should dress the part, at least at work. After 1 drink, I tipped her $25. I hope it brightened her day.
www.freebeerandwings.com
CJ’s Pub
236 S Michigan St (South Bend, IN)
Occupancy: 140
Friday, 01November2024
Rating: 1.5/5
Established in 1984, this place has been a popular stomping ground for the Irish. And I don’t think it’s ever had an update. I heard Ex-mayor Pete Buttigieg used to come here a lot and still does in the Summers. When I asked what he typically ordered, the bartender said always a burger. I didn’t get anything to eat because the place seems run-down. It really needs an update. The bathroom is covered in graffiti and a decent amount of it includes profane images and crude language. Would you want your kids walking in there and seeing a bunch of penises on the walls? What I wonder is how long have those been there. It makes me question how much they respect themselves. They have self-serve free popcorn but it was really salty. But the beers were cold and the staff was warm and friendly.
www.freebeerandwings.com
Cool Runnings Restaurant and Bar
129 N Michigan St (South Bend, IN)
Occupancy: 144
Wednesday, 30October2024
Rating: 3/5
Cool Runnings is a Jamaican Tiki Bar in the heart of downtown South Bend. Cool Runnings is also one of my all-time favorite movies. The classic story of the first Jamaican Bobsled Team- and I know every line to that movie.
When I asked the bartender if the bar name was based off that movie she said, I guess, but hasn’t seen it.
I ordered the Jerk Chicken-had that smoky taste to it. It came with cabbage-which was a nice touch, and orange rice. I got a water with it, but the bartender was a bit aggressive in trying to get me to order an alcoholic beverage. She asked like 3 times. I really didn’t appreciate that. There was a guy a few seats down from me that seemed to be a regular with how he was talking to the staff. But at one point he was yelling on his phone demanding his money…we were the only patrons in there.
www.freebeerandwings.com
Gravity
3210 Deposit DR (Grand Rapids, MI)
Occupancy: 200
Saturday, 05October2024
Rating: 4/5
They have repeatedly served me really good meals. So far i’ve enjoyed the Teriyaki Shrimp Bowl- highly recommend, multiple Chicken Caesar Salads, Steak Frites Entree, and Dry Rub Lemon Pepper Wings-which were excellent. Again, I highly recommend this place. If you go in and sit at the bar and wait to be served, the bartender may ignore you. Speak up! Which I think is a good lesson for the youngin these days. You need something? Speak up! [Insert Bible Verse Matthew Ch 11: 9-10]
I am not a fan of their bathroom setup and here is why: They have two single-person bathrooms each with a toilet and a urinal. It has happened twice to me that I go to open the door, and its unlocked, AND it was occupied by a child. Second time its happened. Why are there two toilets? Seems SOME people assume they’re not supposed to lock the door. Another time I used the bathroom, it was a bit trashed.
www.freebeerandwings.com
Roots Brew Shop
600 7th St. NW (Grand Rapids, MI)
Occupancy: 100
Saturday, 05October2024
Rating: 4/5
Roots Brew Shop, seemingly successful by its packed house, has principles. I was just expressing to my mother my bewilderment wondering how much money they are losing because they are CLOSED on SUNDAYS.
Now, I applaud this place because I went in and asked for a bagel with cream cheese and jelly on top. Idk how many places do that on the regular but I was feeling it and it was scrumptious, very grateful for that delicious treat. I got a somewhat flavorless bland cappuccino. I will say though, second time I’ve tried Roots coffee and what I love about them is that they serve hot beverages at a drinkable temperature! I enjoyed this all while sitting outside on a lawn chair-one of a few that line the front of the shop. Unfortunately, passerby must walk off the sidewalk for each occupied lawn chair. It made me feel uncomfortable feeling like I had to hold my legs in to make more room for people walking by. Anyways, I really like this place! I am looking forward to returning soon-with friends!
www.freebeerandwings.com
Bobcat Bonnie’s
1968 Breton Rd. (Grand Rapids, MI)
Occupancy: 133
Tuesday, August 27, 2024
Rating: 2.5/5
It seems to be a pretty chill spot around late lunch time to 3pm. It’s whisked away on the upper North-east corner of Burton and Breton in the same lot as the Breton Village shopping malls. The waitress was very untalkative, strictly business and if I was her friend I would have left, the way she was serving me. (let’s see here, where do i insert the part about her shirt saying, “overpriced and gay”-Yelp Reviewer, 1/5 Stars.) Just with some of the most North pointed snobby nosed manners I’ve been subjected to face in recent years that I can recall.. I asked her to change the channel to the US Open. CNN had been on. She goes back to the kitchen and through slightly shaded glass I can see her venting in frustration to a coworker for 10 seconds. Then she came back to the bar with what felt like a forced smile. She was very unwarming for a host, a bartender, sadly even just as a person. We’re talking cold folks! Where’s a metal detector when you need one? I got an Arnold Palmer and a BLT on Sourdough-even though it wasn’t on the menu. The cook brought it out. He had shaggy hair. Like a dog. The sandwich would have been damned near perfect if the bacon wasn’t so thick… I had to spit some small, hard, undercooked chunks out. Because the bread was warm and soft, and the tomatoes… the tomatoes were fresh! Almost a perfect BLT! Heard it has been a good year for tomatoes around these parts. Bill was 18.02 and I tipped 5.
www.freebeerandwings.com
Hancock
1147 Wealthy St. (Grand Rapids, MI)
Occupancy: 45
Friday, 19July2024
Rating: 3.5/5
If you go there, you must get chicken! They do serve a decent battered fish though… Interestingly enough this place no longer has waiters/waitresses. You sit, you order the chicken online and once the chicken is ready the “servers” bring the chicken out to you. It’s kind of nice actually. Less interruptions in conversation. Ya know, no waitress coming up you every other minute asking how everything is. You can get servers’ attention if needed. For instance, we had to ask for silverware. I wonder if this different style of service is working for the restaurant. I had a great time sitting outside! Looking forward to coming back.
ww.freebeerandwings.com
The Commons
547 Cherry St (Grand Rapids, MI)
Occupancy: 99
Saturday, 13July2024
Rating: 3.5/5
This place is what I’d like to call a hidden gem. Then again, I haven’t been around town in awhile. My buddy and I went around noon and the place was empty. Nice and peaceful. Slightly dimmed lights. We sat in comfy chairs by a TV with Nascar on and there were board games and cards nearby. It’s like we were in a living room! Very comfortable. I ordered an Arnold Palmer and it was just decent. We played cards as we waited for the meals. I like cards, because a simple game can spur great conversation. I got the brunch menu’s wet burrito and it was very good. Friend got a burger and it was par. Enough with the food. The bathrooms! Glorious! Best bathroom I have rated yet. Single person. Clean as a whistle. Smelled good. TV above the urinal so I missed only mere seconds of the Nascar Race! And to top it all off, assorted candy in a bowl for the way out. Now, I will say that brings up serious legal and security concerns. What if someone poisoned the candy or did something sickly to it. The candy bowl is a risk that if I were manager, would absolutely not take. However, as a patron I took the risk and had mini Twizzlers for the win. They were delightful.
ww.freebeerandwings.com
Outback Steakhouse
1255 Fordham DR (Virginia Beach)
Occupancy: 90
Saturday, 20April2024
Rating: 3/5
I ordered curbside. When I called, I was delighted to hear the original Australian guy’s accent, “G’day Mate! Thanks for calling Outback Steakhaas.” I was trying to see their menu, but their URL is messed up. Every time I clicked on it, my screen freaked out and kept trying to reload. I really didn’t appreciate that as I wondered, could this glitch be affecting my phone’s microchip or my screen? In the least, they need to take the site down. This is very bad publicity. So, I had to ask the hostess over the phone some recommendations. She said the Shrimp and Chicken Pasta Alfredo was her favorite. Well, I am here to tell you today that it is now my favorite. The shrimp was perfect and the chicken was darn near. Noodles and alfredo were good. The two girls working curbside pickups were funny but besides that professional. There was only .96 cents left on my gift certificate, and I asked if they could swipe my debit card for tip. Apparently, that wasn’t going to work. One of them said, “don’t even worry about it, you’re good!” I said I’d have to go get cash and come back. And again they both attempted to assure me: “if you want, but its okay, don’t worry about it.” I find this a good sign that they have good management.
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Menu
ww.freebeerandwings.com
Luna Maya
2010 Colley Ave (Norfolk)
Occupancy: 149
Tuesday, 09April2024
Rating: 4/5
They opened the doors 2 minutes past the time of their opening hours. I know, not much, but its noteworthy! Once I got in, it was quite a lonnng stroll to the bathrooms. Anyways, I know its a Mexican themed restaurant and this is in their culture but I didnt like seeing el diablito or “the little devil” on the mens door. Made me feel uncomfortable. I asked an employee in the restroom if he liked working here and he said he really did, with no hesitation. He was very enthusiastic about the food here. So that was a good sign(later I found out he was the cook! HA!) and he wasn’t lying. When he came out of the bathroom, came near the bar and asked if the bartender made me this Arnold Palmer. I shook my head yes. And again, with much enthusiasm said, “she makes the best drinks!” I will say, its quite good. Sweet aftertaste. I ordered the Mushroom Poblano Quesadilla (one of the waitresses commented calling it the Mush Pob), with beans and rice all for 16.88. It was all so good! Its one of the best restaurant meals I have had in a while. I am very impressed. After the first bite I closed my eyes and thought heavenly thoughts. Moving on, the place was spick-and-span. When I say spick-and-span I mean SPICK-AND -SPAN(Latin derivative meaning”new”). Very clean which was very satisfying to the eye. Can’t wait to come back.
www.freebeerandwings.com
Brothers Bar and Grill
1234 N Eddy St. Unit 125 (South Bend, IN)
Occupancy 95
Sunday, 07April2024
Rating: 1.5/5
My parents and I visited here shortly after attending mass at the Moreau Chapel on ND’s campus.In retrospect, maybe it’d have been better to go to a more family friendly environment, but a restaurant is a restaurant. It’s Sunday so not very busy. We took a booth and immediately noticed the table top was sticky. This is a ginormous pet peeve of mine. It’s not lookin’ good Brothers. The bathrooms were in pretty poor shape. Toilet paper everywhere on the ground. Unflushed toilets, wet ground near urinals. I’m guessing the place was packed last night. I’m sure a lot of money was made, along with a lot of mess. Just wasn’t cleaned up to my standards. We ordered the appetizer nachos with Chicken for 12.95..just make it 13, quit playin. They were pretty skimpy on the chicken. Maybe enough to feed a small animal, like a chipmunk or somethin. It tasted okay. They used unsweetened tea and lemonade to make our Arnold Palmers-we knew that upon ordering-but they didn’t taste great, they were pretty bland. Seems like a sweet place to hang with your buddies or a band, but not a great “restaurant” vibe…
www.freebeerandwings.com
Pittie Dog Grill
4143 Ganby St. (Norfolk)757-917-5340
Occupancy 25
Friday, 05April2024
Rating: 3/5
This is a newer place that just opened up mid-January. Dogs are welcome! Restaurants on this side of Granby Street seem to have struggled in the past, but I believe the Pittie Dog Grill will thrive. Their sign advertises $10 meals. I ordered a German Dog-a bratwurst with sautéed onions and peppers on top, a side of sweet potato waffle fries, coleslaw, a cheesecake brownie(which was extra) and Brisk Iced Tea all for $14.65. Most notable were the sweet potato waffle fries. They were perfectly crispy and delicious. My date was only able to sneak one in hehe. The brownie tasted like yesterdays. A little tough. In consolation, it did have a nice caramelly aftertaste. The staff may be a little inexperienced with customers, but it is a newer place, so it's understandable. They were so focused on the order that they didn’t think to build rapport or add any sort of color commentary. I guess I just didn’t get that warm fuzzy feeling from them. The bathroom was in good condition, but I did notice that the toilet seat looked slightly weathered… I would expect a new restaurant to have nice new shiny toilet seats. It was an overall good experience and I will definitely come back.
www.freebeerandwings.com
Doumar’s Cones and Barbecue
1919 Monticello Ave (Norfolk) 757-627-4163
Occupancy 49
Monday, 01April2024
Rating: 3.5/5
This place is great and i’d go as far to say its become a staple of norfolk dining.Good for lunch dinner, and late night snack. Open until 11PM monday thru Saturday. They work like a well oiled machine and it’s a spectacle to see! The staff is super friendly and not in an annoying way. They won’t come and ask you how your food is 10 times. The waitress asked if i knew what i wanted. Of course i did! A BLT with mayonnaise and a coke. I declined the fries because they maybe lack a little taste-i guess they are on the healthier side. The coca cola was refreshing but had been watered down. I guess its on the healthier side (cough cough) What?! I’m being truthful here! The bathrooms are the biggest let down. You have to ask for a key and go outside to the back of the building. Kind of like an old fashioned gas station. For me, when using a public restroom, the less things I have to touch the better. This place is like a Sonic. Better said, Sonic is like Doumars. You can park in the lot and waitresses will come out to your car. I just discovered today that they will aslo bring out beers to your car for the passengers lol. Virginia is 1/10 States where is it is legal for passengers to drink in the car. On a final note, please do yourself a favor and get yourself a shake or ice cream. They do it good here.
www.freebeerandwings.com
The Dirty Buffalo
4012 Colley Ave (Norfolk) 757-226-7851
Occupancy 78
Sunday, 04February2024
Rating: 2/5
The dirty bufff. It’s a fun place to go, its kind of like a buffalo wild wings. One of the few places around that sells Labatt Blue…if you’re into that sort of thing. This particular experience the food wasn’t great. The parmesan bites were over cooked. The wings were undercooked. The Caesar salad was good. Hard to mess that up. The staff looked really young. Didn’t see anyone that looked over 25 working there. But they were enthusiastic and had spirit, which I appreciate. The bathrooms were clean.
www.freebeerandwings.com
El Parian Mexican Restaurant
4848 Virginia Beach BLVD (Virginia Beach) 757-499-0310
Occupancy: 50
Friday, 02February2024
Rating: 4/5
They bring us chips and salsa and queso right after we order our drinks. The queso is money. Got the big Pina Colada. It is a big drink! With a satisfying alcohol content! I ordered the Speedy Gonzales which came with a beef taco, orange rice, and wet burrito. I scarfed it all down pretty quickly. This place shows promise! Highly recommend! Very quick service. The bathrooms were clean and the art in there was pretty cool. Friendly, outgoing staff.
www.freebeerandwings.com
Lafayette Bar and Grill
3000 Lafayette BLVD (Norfolk)
Occupancy: 89
Thursday, 01February2024
Rating: 2.5/5
This is a very welcoming environment where the regulars, the staff, and the owner are genuine. Owner Barry sits out and has beers with the regs all the time. Their food is pretty good here. Bar food. A little greasy but that’s the way I like it! My favorite is the chicken quesadilla and fried mushrooms washed down by 3 coors lights. They still use an old time cash register system, so when you request the bill, have some patience. Pro move: Order one last beer upon closeout. Treat them well. they are good people.
www.freebeerandwings.com
The Little Dog Diner
1917 Colley (Norfolk) 757-333-4137
Occupancy: 50
Saturday, 06January2024
RATING: 4/5
Just had an absolute killer breakfast BLT sandwich at the Little Dog. Yeah, that’s right, the big dawg came to town. It was with avocado, an over easy egg, and mayonnaise on a RYE. It was bomb. I will say, i prefer my mayonnaise on the sandwich. I hate having to put it on myself from a packet. But again the sandwich was amazing. Downed it with an Irish Coffee. Get off yer arse and make yer way to Little Dog Diner! You’ll want to get there early because it gets packed. Forever thankful, Little Dog.
www.freebeerandwings.com
THE FISHIN’ PIG
119 W 25th St. (Norfolk) 757-937-5426
Occupancy: 55
Sunday, 23July2023
Rating: 2/5
Service is pretty good here. Tenders are good i’d say after experiencing a few different. 7 TVs but they only line the bar. I guess its like they are a family establishment, but they like to party. I like the chicken toes. Collard greens were dece, tad spicy, hushpuppies were eh… they are hush puppies, diggin into the green beans- had a decent taste but they’re kinda soupy, coleslaw dece-hard to f that up. Very small portion-why does coleslaw always have to be such small portions!? but ehh ya know it was kinda jam packed in that plastic container. The ribs were terrible. Bathrooms dece.
www.freebeerandwings.com
Buffalo Wild Wings
420 Monticello Ave (Norfolk) 757-965-3959
Occupancy: 307
June 12, 2022
Rating: 4.5/5
I do not say this lightly. REPEAT. I DO NOT SAY THIS LIGHTLY. I just had the best lemon pepper wings (dry rub) i’ve ever had in my life. I’m going to go home now and sleep. And surely, i will be dreaming of the seasoning of those wings. I am still licking my lips.
Bartender Lindsey was warm and friendly.
www.freebeerandwings.com
Little Dog Diner
1917 Colley (Norfolk) 757-333-4137
Occupancy: 50
Sunday, 23January2022
Rating: 3/5
Couple a big dawgs came through here and really enjoyed the food. The staff was pretty entertaining. I got to tell ya, the place runs like a well oiled machine. But it was a little pricey. Bathrooms were cleared by “The Shoe”. I’ll take his word for it. Apparently there is a sign in the bathroom that says they raised their prices by 8% because of logistics problems due to the c word. The bloody Mary I had was not great. Looking forward to coming back for another breggy.
Update: they’re way too pricey. It’s a diner made out of a trailer, not an upscale restaurant.
www.freebeerandwings.com
Kelly’s Tavern
1408 Colley Ave (Norfolk) 757-623-3216
Occupancy: 45
Monday, 10January2022
Rating: 3/5
The staff sure is nice. Ive only tried their Beef Vegetable Soup, White Chili and multiple Coors Lights. The soup was good enough. The chili was very good! Ive been on the hunt for a new home bar and unfortunately had to cross this one off the list because of the decorations in the men’s bathroom. Cheers or whatever. I’ll never come back. but here’s the stinkin menu.
www.freebeerandwings.com
80/20 Burger Bar
123 W 21st St (Norfolk) 757-222-1321
Occupancy: 55
Monday, 02Jan2022
Rating: 3/5
The sign on the ONLY customer bathroom which had just one toilet read, “who cares? Just wash your hands.” This place seemed a tad hipsterish to me, from the fellow that was pouring a shot-assistant bar tender?-to the fellows standing outside for a ciggarette.
On sundays they dont serve food from 130 to 4pm.. they clean the kitchen in that time window. Unfortunately i didn’t have the patience to wait. The bartender was nice enough. The bar itself, the inside is very nice. Great potential this place.. will have to go back to try a burgahh
www.freebeerandwings.com
Texas Roadhouse
6130 College Dr (Suffolk) 757-484-8979
Friday, 24Dec21
Occupancy: 100
Rating: 1.5/5
Pretty horrible dining experience. I understand it was Christmas Eve, but that really shouldn’t be the catalyst to poor service and below average food. Bless her heart, our waitress had food on her mouth upon the initial visit to our table. Looked like butter and a little piece of bread from the rolls. The one thing they didn’t mess up. The bread rolls, they WERE delicious. We ordered blizzard drinks, which is similar to a Margarita. Low and DISAPPOINTING alcohol content. We all ordered different sized steaks and she messed up the way each was supposed to be cooked. The sauteed onions were not great. The green beans were bad, really bad. The bill came out to 97 bucks and aligned with our good conscience, we tipped an underserving 17. The bathroom could have been cleaner. The employees walked around with shirts that said I LOVE MY JOB, but they all looked miserable. It was Christmas Eve for Pete’s sake. So what if you have to work, don’t bring down Christmas for us you forlorn creature. Maybe they could have worn something a little more dressy. By the way, they are hiring…
sidenote: they had enough staff
www.freebeerandwings.com
Karla’s Beach House
3248 E Ocean View Ave(Norfolk) 757-937-3844
Sunday, 22Aug21
Occupancy: 56
Rating: 4/5
THE KARLA literally opened the door for us and welcomed us in. She also took our orders from the bar. She was super nice and accommodating. I need to skip ahead to the food-IT WAS FXXXXXX BOMB.
Surfer Bowl: split biscuits with potatoes, applewood bacon, sausage, over easy eggs, with a layer of gravy on top. Hollllly Smoookes. It was damn damn damn tasty. The best breakfast I’ve had in a while. I finished 15 minutes before my date-she did not appreciate that but I couldn’t care less. Sorry not sorry. They have 3 coffees of the day and you can either fill it yourself or they’ll fill it for you-in fancy glass coffee mugs. I had four cups…. They were well brewed, and didn’t need cream or sugar. Coming here was a great way to start the day. Walking out of Karla’s, take a left and walk upstairs to the beach.
www.freebeerandwings.com
Chix on the Beach
701 Atlantic Ave (Virginia Beach) 757-428-2449
Saturday, 21Aug21
Rating: 4/5
Walking into the restaurant and looking towards the ocean immediately drew a smile on my face and warmed me up inside. We sat outside and the view of the ocean was amazing. To drink, the waitress recommended an old classic of the establishment’s: The Orange Crush. It had a little vodka in it but it was tasty. I slurped down two. Appetizers, we went with Hush Puppies and Fried Calamari. Both were delicious, but we were also very hungry at that point.
Main course I got Surf and Turf Tacos which included marinated tenderloin and Carolina Shrimp. The tacos were stuffed and all the shrimp managed to fall out before I could bite into the taco. They were also super wet and were non-stop dripping to the last bite. Overall they tasted okay.
It seemed like a lot of young people work here, but the service was excellent. The bathrooms were small but very clean.
Lastly, and I hate to end on a bad note, but it’s a huge pet peeve of mine: Our table was wobbly.
Menu
www.freebeerandwings.com
Aberdeen Barn Steakhouse
5805 Northampton Blvd (Virginia Beach) 757-464-1580
Sunday, 01Aug21
Rating: 4.5/5
All I can think about is the cow that got back massaged by 6 men all the while guzzling down two bottles of beer at the same time. I wonder if the cow enjoyed it. I enjoyed it-the Wagyu Steak I mean. It was damn good. Walking into Aberdeen Barn Restaurant, I felt like I was in the movie Titanic at the very end when the camera is going around to everyone on the ship and they’re smiling and waving dreamy like. It felt like a very warmly comfortable atmosphere. They must have known I was about to unknowingly buy a $300 steak! When I got the bill, I thought they accidentally put everyone’s on mine. Noop. The menu didn’t say how expensive the steak was. No one told me. It would have been nice to know. No wonder the cook came out to ask us how the food was 3 times! Speaking of the service, I was impressed. They employ a lot of people. Younger people. Probably don’t have to pay them much. Smart. The kiddos are probably just happy to be working in such a high scale place.
Menu
www.freebeerandwings.com
The Ten Top
748 Shirley Ave (Norfolk) 757-622-5422
Thursday, 29July21
Rating: 3/5
Was referred to this place by an old cab driver. Said he’s lived here for 18 years. His favorite thing at TenTop is Ricky’s Meatloaf Sandwich. So I had that with a side of pasta salad and a bottle of Orange Dream Soda. The Meatloaf Sandwich was pretty good. The sandwich was neat and well prepared. It could have used a little more zest…I mean just a little! The pasta salad was really bland… idk maybe I’m losing my sense of taste. I have been drinking beer in excess the last couple weeks. Or MAYBE I have covid! But yeah no it was BLAND. The orange soda was just okay.
I like how they have a bunch of old toys in the front window.
www.freebeerandwings.com
Jose Tequillas
1108 E Little Creek Rd (Little Creek) 757-588-8014
Wednesday, 28July21
Rating: 4/5
You know what I absolutely love, and I don’t know why more restaurants don’t do it-I guess just Mexican restaurants, they brought chips, queso, and salsa out to us and we hadn’t been sitting for more than 30 seconds. VAMOS! The queso was very good.
While the big heffe dropped the chips off, I slipped in a quick drink order. A Long Island-which at Jose Tequillas is wrung up as a “Bad Hombre”. It was STEE-RONG. Wednesday’s are fajita night so me and Wings got Fajitas. They were fricken delicious. So good.
I checked out the bathrooms. They could be a little bit better tended to.
www.freebeerandwings.com
Dockside Bar and Grill
7856 Hampton BLVD (Norfolk) 757-489-2210
Tuesday, 27July21
Rating: 2.5/5
The Dockside of the Moon! It’s a very underrated bar. They open early every day for lunch… and beers. I’ve yet to try their food but the tenders are very friendly and drinks are cheap! So maybe the actual chicken is dece? :/
Friendly patrons.
This place has a negative reputation for being dingy. There are a lot of sailors that steer clear of this place because of what I would call preconceived notions. With that being said, it wouldn’t hurt to let more sunlight in. The blinds of the windows are usually all the way down. There’s a lot of seating for it being such a small place, but it doesn’t mess up the Feng Shui.
Dont look at their menu and dont call. just show up and be ready to drink
www.freebeerandwings.com
The Colley Cantina
1316 Colley Ave (Norfolk) 757-622-0033
Tuesday, 20July21
Rating: 4/5
Fresh from being gone a while, from my most favorite watering hole, I finally tried the food here. I got the chimi chonga, and it was crispy, and it was good. Better known for their taco tuesdays, Colley Cantina has an exceptionally friendly staff! It’s a small place, and maybe that is why it’s so easy to get to know the reggies, or regulars and the staff. It’s easy to fit in here. You may just find yourself staying the whole weekend... or week.
www.freebeerandwings.com
The Pancake House and Grill
7633 Granby St (Norfolk) 757-489-1060
Saturday, 14NOV20
Rating: 3.5/5
This place was great! Very pleasant atmosphere. Our waitress Debbie was so nice and made for good conversation. She even tried hooking me up with the bartender! Yes THIS pancake house has a full bar. I ordered a double shot screwdriver and boy did IT HIT the spot! Marty got an Irish coffee, but he had trouble drinking it haha. I guess they made his stiff too.
We both ordered Country Fried Steak and Eggs. Damn was it good! The gravy on the steak was on another level. The eggs were cooked well. Per usual, I dipped my toast in the sunny side eggs. I love doing this. Really would have liked butter on the toast, but this place too, gave out butter packets. Cmon, this isn’t hotel continental breakfast! Butter the toast! The hash browns weren’t crispy like I like em, but I’ll take the blame on that one. The Pancake House and Grill has potential to be my go-to breakfast place. D’egg Diner is up there too.
Menu
www.freebeerandwings.com
America’s Best Wings
5802 E Virginia Beach BLVD 757-937-3666
Thursday, 12NOV20
Rating: 3/5
Their name is something to live up to. The service was good. I ordered 5 Kentucky Barbecue and 5 Garlic Parmesan with a fry/drink combo, and then couldn’t resist a slice of oreo cake. The cake was as good as it looked. It was scrumptious even.
The Kentucky Barbecue wings were really good! Dry rub, and had a real nice crunch to em. Dipped a couple in ranch but I’m here to tell you it was better without ranch. The ranch kind of spoiled the flavor. The garlic parm were super salty tasting. But altogether the wings were cooked well, good meat. The fries were not great, just okay. Acceptable. I got a mango-lemonade and had to add water to it. Was really frickin sweet! This place is pickup only.
Menu
www.freebeerandwings.com
Hair of the Dog Eatery
4820 Hampton BLVD (Norfolk) 757-321-8483
Wednesday, 11NOV20
Rating: 2/5
Veteran’s Day! The wait was about 10 minutes, no problem and that’s a good sign. We asked for a table outside, but almost immediately regretted it. The alcohol helped. The traffic outside of this place is kind of crazy: a bunch of noisy trucks and worst of all, the crossing meter has sound. Now, I really shouldn’t be too mad about that because that sound is for blind people, but it was rather disturbing to me while trying to enjoy breakfast.
I ordered an Island-Mosa and it was very good. Mixed well. For the entree, I ordered The Freshman. Over easy eggs were good. The toast was not buttered. I asked for buttered toast and they gave me butter packets. What is this? Hotel continental breakfast? The sausage they gave me was unfortunately not in link formation. It was a patty.... again, what is this?? HOTEL CONTINENTAL BREAKFAST?!
The tots were okay. Not average, but okay.
What irked me is that the waiter said he’d bring us out water and never did. Oh well, people make mistakes. Heard the Hair of the Dog downtown location is better.
www.freebeerandwings.com
Boil Bay Seafood City
5957 E Virginia BLVD 757-962-1088
Tuesday, 10NOV20
Rating: 4/5
Was pretty satisfied here! More than looking forward to coming back. I ordered an Irish Red Head, was delicious! Wings and Lee ordered Long Islands, and enjoyed them very much. At some point I went and complimented the bartender.
I ordered the clam chowder and a Caesar Salad. The salad was just okay-maybe a little below average. What I didn’t appreciate is that they gave me fat free ranch to go with it. It was from a packet. First of all fat free ranch SUCKS! Secondly, are you trying to tell me something? I am well aware of ma big belleh thank you very much!
But the clam chowder.. ohhh the clam chowder rocked my world. In my opinion clam chowder is hit or miss. Dat shit hit different doe. It was very good. Not enough crackers. Ya never get enough crackers! I also got a fried shrimp basket with Cajun Fries. It was pretty darn good, and I was especially happy with the fries.
Wings ordered a pound of shrimp without the heads. He pounded that shit, and then ate half my fries. Lee ordered a few different kinds of sushi and must have liked them because he finished before us. He is an Asian Tank. Our greeter was great, our waitress was greater-super nice and attentive. The bathrooms seemed pretty clean. There were some cool paintings in there and also a tree. Yes a fake tree, but it was nice to see. The effort is apparent. Extremely excited to revisit this place!
www.freebeerandwings.com
Island Krave
222 W 21st St (Norfolk) 757-627-1725
Sunday, 08Nov20
Rating: 1.5/5
Upon entering, the women working gave warm-smiled welcomes. The place is take-out only, but they have a bar where you can take a quick drink while waiting for food. We took our food to the outside tables of Jimmy John’s a couple doors down. I got the ribs and Mac and cheese. Unfortunately the ribs were dry and salty. I pushed myself through finishing the first 1/4 rack but the second 1/4 rack I couldn’t. Was pretty disappointed. The Mac and cheese was bland, but okay I guess…Maybe the food wasn’t good because it’s Sunday night, but still not a good excuse.
I was fortunate to have Wings and Lee accompany me for this excursion. They got oxtail and cornbread. They really liked the Oxtail. They say it melts in your mouth. I tried it and it was okay. Super soft. The cornbread was really good! It has cinnamon on it. I’ve heard good things about this place from friends, so I’ll have to give it another try.
www.freebeerandwings.com
Chili’s
922 Mall Dr (Norfolk)
Sunday, 08NOV20
Rating: 2/5
Service was pretty good here! Bartender was attentive and friendly. I gotta say, I like Chili’s because of the family-like atmosphere. I ordered 2 coors lights, which tasted pretty fresh, and also some wings with Buffalo sauce.
They went pretty skimpy on the amount of sauce on the wings and they tasted very mild. The meat was a little too chewy for my liking.
On a more positive note, it looks like they have some decent deals on their menu. I’m not gonna post the menu though. its mf chilis…
www.freebeerandwings.com
Cogan’s Pizza
1901 Colonial Ave (Norfolk) 757-627-6428
Sunday, 01NOV20
Rating: 3.5/5
Dimly lit. Quick service. Sanitary. Friendly, cheery, hostess, and she was cute. Waiter was cool and joked around with us. We asked for their freshest beer on tap. He didn’t know which kegs had been changed last. We made it pretty clear we wanted beers on tap, but ordered dragon stout. A darker Jamaican beer with slight aftertastes of chocolate. They’re bottled, but were pretty good. The calamari was a little dainty in proportion but tasted decent. Sauce was just okay. Nothing like the calamari sauce at Granby Street Pizza! Me and wings ordered 2 slices of Meatzilla/meat lovers pizza. Pizza is to Cogen’s like water is to fish. You need to get your ass down here and put some of their pizza in your mouth. “The crust of their pizza is, delectable. Some of the best crust ever. High quality flavor.” -Wings
There bathroom is pretty nice. Tiled walls are cool. The floors too. The floors of the building are basically huge slabs of rock. I appreciate it. There IS graffiti on the walls of the bathroom. It’s VERY unpleasant to see. How long has that been there? Shit happens. Take care of it. Satisfied with the overall experience.
www.freebeerandwings.com
D’egg
1170 Lexan Ave (Norfolk) 757-423-3447
Sunday, 01NOV20
Rating: 3.5/5
Ok so all the cashier/waitresses are cute. Aside from that, the customer service is excellent. It really truly is. They are so nice. You need to try their lemonade and or orange juice. Pretty, pretty, pretty GOOD. Surprisingly good. Oh yes, that’s right, the food. The food is good.
I have one negative that I’m going to end with: their bathroom floors are sticky as shnit. I’ll tell ya what they oughta do. What they oughta do is ask one uh them good ole navy boys ‘come down n mop for em. Them floors need a good moppin’
www.freebeerandwings.com
Red Dog Saloon
1421 Colley Ave
Saturday, 31OCT20
Rating: 2/5
THIS PLACE NO LONGER EXISTS*
Beers were good. Guinness. They were poured the way they are supposed to be be poured yada yada yada I was great. The waitresses were cute, but they wouldn’t share the WiFi password. Those little devils. Whatever their costumes were, they were pretty evil looking indeed. The WiFi login says Red Dog Saloon_guest. Am I not a guest? Delete it if you don’t want people to get the wrong idea.
Pool was fun. Unfortunately it costs 1.25 to play. Kind of annoying, but hey I can’t blame them too much. Had a pretty fun experience tonight, a lot better than last time.
www.freebeerandwings.com
626 Press
626 W Olney Rd. (Norfolk) 757-282-6234
Saturday, 31OCT20
Rating: 3/5
This is a wine and coffee bar, but they serve food. From the way the waiter described the food, it sounded delicious. We just stayed for a glass of wine, a Zaleo Semi Dulce Tinto. The first wine on their wine menu. It was sweet and tasted like plums. I enjoyed it! Looking to come back for dinner and coffee.
Menu
www.freebeerandwings.com
Granby Street Pizza
235 Granby St. (Norfolk) 757-622-5084
Saturday, 31OCT20
Rating: 3.5/5
A bathroom could have 3 different smells. It could smell bad, it could not smell at all, and of course it could smell good. This bathroom smells good! A nice, somewhat subtle fragrance that doesn’t over do it.
The owner of Granby Street Pizza was working the cash register up at the front counter which I thought was really cool. Open 31 years and counting! We ordered calamari as an appetizer. I don’t know if we were just so hungry that they tasted amazing, but I know one thing for certain. The sauce that comes with the calamari is OUT OF THIS WORLD. Not kidding. Now for the pizza. We got a meat lovers. It was a little greasy and pretty much impossible to eat unless folding it New York style, owners from Brooklyn. Go figure. It was average pizza, which is good!The wings were decent. They were cooked well. 10 mild, 10 hot, 10 barbecue. The barbecue was average. The hot wings were not really hot, but the sauce seemed to have more butter in it than the mild. So the hot wings were pretty darn tasty, I must say.
They serve beer and wine, no liquor. Which I think is somewhat classy. They don’t want boozehounds getting all rowdy in there, it’s more of a family establishment.
www.freebeerandwings.com
Mr. Shawarma
725 W 21st Street (Norfolk) 757-937-5371
Friday, 30OCT20
Rating: 4/5
HOLY CRAP. Had a chicken wrap with the works from this place. I asked for everything on it. Hours later every burp is FRESH reminder of how good it was. Their falafels were darn good too. Also had a strawberry banana type beverage smoothie from a can. Simply Delicious. The staff was really friendly. Coming back soon!
www.freebeerandwings.com
Oro Azteca
8001 Hampton Blvd (Norfolk) 757-423-0325
Saturday, 24OCT20
Rating: 3/5
Upon entering I was swiftly hit with both the aroma and reminder of the excellent food served here.
Once seated we ordered some Modello Especial beers. They were brought out immediately, along with chips, salsa, and queso. Another absolutely delightful offering of Oro Azteca. The service is very good here. I leafed thru the large menus as mi amigos spoke in Spanish with the waiter.
Mi amigo Marty ordered a California wet burrito the size of his head. The thing was loaded. I had a smashing chicken taco salad. The bowl was made out of a taco shell. Beautiful. Just fucking beautiful. Afterwards we stayed awhile for some drinks. Their happy hour is all the way from 5-9. We ordered Pina Coladas, Bahama Mamas, Sex on the Beaches, and Long Islands.. All were excellent tasting, not a lot of alcohol in them, but I wasn’t that upset about it. The service and the food was REALLY GOOD. COME HERE.
www.freebeerandwings.com
Peck and Pour
1308 Colley Ave, Norfolk 757-395-4176
Thursday, 22OCT20
Rating: 2/5
Upon entering, Marge was quick to greet us from across the floor which was appropriate because we were 2 of 3 customers in the entire place, which was nice. Personally I really like receiving more attention from the staff. As I walked straight to the back to the restrooms Marge mentioned that my face mask positioned with my nose out made it look like a face diaper, apparently a South Park reference. Good one Margie!
The bathroom had quite a modern feel to it. The wooded ground tile was cool, and so was the wood framed mirror-super cool. The trash can is regular plastic and looks very ugly grouping it together with the rest of the bathroom. It also has graffiti on it. Very trashy but hey, its a trash can..but still. Wash that crap off. The soap dispenser has some type of white stuff on it what looks like residue from a sticker that was peeled off. Oh I almost forgot the floors are sticky as all hell. They ought to hire a navy boy to teach them how to mop! These floors, I’m talking, ridiculously sticky. They’re sticky all around, but mostly in the bathroom. WHEN IS THE LAST TIME THEY MOPPED IN THERE? God only knows.
We got the calamari. Was surprised how fast it came out with how tasty they were. Same with the Korean dumplings. Delicious! Gosh damnit! They were succulent!!
We then preceded to order wings. They come with fries. The fries are “prettyyy pretttyyy good,” as Larry David might say.
She asked me if I wanted another beer. After having a New Holland Dragons Milk, which was okay. Kind of sweet after taste, and I then ordered a golden Monkey. I told her the same glass was fine, but she insisted she’d get me a new, chilled glass. Dumped it down the ol gullet, a little faster than the first one, paid, and walked out feeling Tony the Tiger GRRREEAAT!
www.freebeerandwings.com
Red Dog Saloon
1421 Colley Ave (Norfolk)
Saturday, 17 OCT20
Rating: 1.5/5
THIS PLACE NO LONGER EXISTS*
This seemed like a perfect place for a couple of wet dogs such as ourselves, from the outside. Upon entering the hostess was absent. We trotted further in and were greeted and shown to a table. The waitress said she’d be right back to wipe it down. Were there other open, dry tables around? It seemed so, but maybe water was dripping from the ceiling at those ones as well!
Once seated, we proceeded to order a couple Guinness, God Bless the old country, and ordered a couple more after that. They were poured the way a Guinness ought to be poured. They were fresh and oh baby were they tasty!
Anyways back to the Red Dog. APPARENTLY, Red Dog now charges 3% on all final sales if you use a debit/credit card. If Wings, while marking his territory, hadn’t seen a sign signifying that, we wouldn’t have found out until we received the check! I have a hunch that they want people to pay cash so they don’t have to claim as much for taxes. Even so, it’s a win/win situation for them! Ah well, they’re not the first to do it and won’t be the last. Hopefully it doesn’t become a trend.
After the Guinness was gone glasses licked dry, I ask for the bill. $3.50 a glass ain’t bad, ESPECIALLY FOR GUINNESS. Heck it might be illegal, a contract breach to sell it that cheap!
Anyways I giver $20 cash for a $14 bill and she comes back with $5 cash and puts down the receipt and says that it’s wrong but don’t worry about it. Don’t worry about it? WHAT IN THE HELL IS THE PURPOSE OF A RECEIPT IF IT’S WRONG!? I decided not to tip her since she had tipped herself already. Which is too bad because I’m a pretty generous tipper. Woof
www.freebeerandwings.com