For this week's review we were searching for a place that students could escape to during the stress and chaos of finals that is rapidly approaching. Our requirements were an inviting atmosphere with great food and affordable prices and reasonably close to Grounds.
We chose South Street Brewery located near the Downtown Mall on South Street. Let's see how, and if, it passes our exam.
South Street Brewery is located on South Street across from the Downtown Mall. It is a short drive for upperclassmen, and even first years could take the trolley. However, while they offer an expansive parking lot, it tends to be filled the majority of the time, making the parking situation somewhat frustrating. Be ready to parallel park.
LOCATION (parking): B+
When you walk into South Street Brewery you are greeted by a plethora of wooden booths, a generous sized bar and a sense of camaraderie and familiarity. The hostess led us to a quiet booth near the rear of the restaurant where a bright and vibrant mural covered the back wall. On our way to the booth we passed a very enticing sitting area of two couches and a large stone fire place. It looked cozy and inviting and would be perfect to sink into and share a drink with friends on a cold rainy night.
ATMOSPHERE GRADE: A+
Upon entering the restaurant we noticed the specials of the day, and the French Onion Soup described everything my stomach yearned for on this cold, rainy night. However, woe to me, they were out of the French Onion Soup. We decided to split the Tostado ($6.95) as an appetizer. The Tostado included a fried, crispy tortilla bottom covered with smoked chicken, jack cheddar cheese, black beans and tomatoes. This warm dish was then countered with a tangy, cold lime cilantro cream and pico de gallo. The appetizer was easy to divide between the two of us and was reminiscent of nachos, but easier and less messy to eat since we were able to use a fork. It was no soup, but it hit the spot as a pre-entree starter.
For entrees we were somewhat surprised at the limited choices. There were two less-expensive choices of a burger or a pita and then a list of eight entrees. We ordered the Chicken Pita ($8.25) and the Gnocchi and Broccoli ($11.95). The Chicken Pita was filled with spinach leaves and lettuce, marinated chicken, tomatoes, onions, feta cheese and olives and served with french fries. Peculiarly, I asked to nix the black olives; however the waitress informed me that it was "pre-packaged" and already mixed. This was somewhat disappointing and surprising, causing me to doubt my pita's freshness. However, I stuck with my order. The pita was good, but I believe I could have made it myself at home except for the original herb vinaigrette dressing.
After debating between the satay and salmon, and upon recommendation from our waitress, Daniel ordered the Gnocchi and Broccoli. The entree is pan-fried potato and parmesan gnocchi tossed with sauteed broccoli and pine nuts then topped with shredded parmesan and lemon mosto oil. While presentation was wonderful, we decided that the gnocchi was just as difficult to swallow as it was to pronounce. The gnocchi was somewhat bland and overpowered by the lemon juice used in the entire dish. The broccoli was refreshing considering the limited vegetable intake that average college student receives weekly. However, overall, we were somewhat let down with our entree choices.
In hopes to salvage the meal and erase our disappointment, we ordered the Peanut Butter Pie ($4.50) for dessert. The nice-sized sliver of pie included mostly peanut butter, sandwiched between a chocolate pie crust and a chocolate coating on top. It was very rich and we felt it lacked something, perhaps a scoop of vanilla ice cream accompanying it.
Despite a strong beginning with the appetizer, the quality of food tapered off and left us with frustrated expectations.
FOOD GRADE: B-
South Street Brewery came up short. We walked in believing it had enormous potential and then left with something to be desired. However, we are not ruling it out as a great escape from wrenching and stressful finals. Please don't forget the Tuesday $2 pint special and the cozy fireplace. Also, the service was prompt and helpful.
What South Street Brewery lacks in food, it makes up tenfold with an enticing and cozy atmosphere.
While you may not spot us in the big booths with entrees, look for us during exams, Tuesday night, sipping on our pints of amber cider, next to the roaring fire forgetting about exams. Cheers to that.
Read More
It’s okay not to be okay
By Mai Hukuoka | 2 days agoWhether talking to a friend, a loved one or a professional, it is so necessary, and human, to need more than you can provide for yourself.
Taking a break at Tangerines Kitchen
By Charley Thomas | 4 days agoWhat the restaurant somewhat lacks in ambiance, it compensates for in tasty dishes and prompt service.
Virginia Policy Lab — a hub for student-led policy action
By Katherine Haden | December 9, 2024Students propose their own projects and collaborate with other members to research their issues of interest, brainstorm solutions and write policy proposals.
