This first post is a bit of cheat. I go to Asgard almost every Wednesday night now for Karaoke. Clearly I like it, but most of that is probably the company.
The Asgard itself advertises itself as a wannabe Irish pub. Its interior design is cluttered with designs from the Book of Kells, but as its Nordic name would suggest, these are all pretty fascinations fashioned to create the illusion of a contemporary pub. There's nothing authentically Irish about this place. It's mass produced, but very tasteful, kitsch. The truth of the matter is that it's a modern bar & restaurant that serves better than decent food.
I have this habit of backhandedly complimenting things, so let me assure you that its contemporary flourish is actually a strength of the Asgard. Because it straddles the line of bar and restaurant and pub so well it's a good location for a variety of social engagements: dinners, bar hopping and of course, a night of karaoke. Its slick finish makes the place feel slightly more upscale than more traditional pubs and you can be certain the liquor and cocktail menu is of a higher caliber.
The bar/restaurant itself is large and open feeling even when crowded. You can have a conversation here, but also cut loose and be silly. I think it's the bar's flexibility that makes it such a fun venue for repeat visits. Also, they just changed the layout, adding new tables and Christmas decorations. And honestly, the decorations are really fun. The waitstaff is mixed with people who clearly are awkward and don't know what to do with rowdy improvisers singing 80's music on Wednesday and a number of fucking amazing servers and bartenders who will share a joke and then pour a mean cocktail. So, yeah, fun waitstaff here.
The breakdown:
The Asgard: not a pub, but still fun.
Overall Cleanliness and Decor: Very Good
Drinks ordered: Esmerelda (special winter cocktail) - the hint of scotch gives this a bite; glass of Cabernet Sauvignon - a decent glass of red; Cosmopolitan (my God this was a good Cosmo)
People at Bar with Me: ImprovBoston karaoke crew
Drink $$: between $6 and $10 for booze (average)
Bathroom quality: average
Dress Code: Casual, but not sloppy
What is this place good for: chilling or having silly fun with friends; networking; flirting
Additional Thoughts: Did I mention the karaoke??
Thursday, December 10, 2009
Pretty much what yelp is for...
In recent years, I've gone from a girl who likes to stay at home watching cable tv marathons to a lady on the town almost every night. I want to use this blog to review various bar, pub & club experiences.
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