Welcome to Draft Culture. Last week, we dropped by the Rib and Chop for some fine dining and expensive experiences. This week, we try one of the cheaper family-friendly options in town as I venture into Lovejoys. Similar to last week, I will be primarily reviewing Lovejoys in terms of what it offers as a bar rather than as a restaurant as a whole. Family-owned for 31 years, before which it was an old folk home, a hotel, and even a brothel, Lovejoys is a known staple of the downtown scene. Join me on my journey as I sample budget-friendly appetizers, learn about the different events there are to attend and engage with history.
Lovejoys had a cozy feel, like a toned-down version of the bustling hometown bar and grills a lot of us are used to from when we were younger. One of the features that caught my eye right away was the entirely custom-made bar top. With a glass-style top filled with corks, it offered a unique charm. The dining area was separated from the bar by a low wall which helped give a more child-friendly atmosphere to the restaurant seating, which allows anyone under 21 until 10 p.m. With a much more laid-back vibe than some of the other bars I’ve attended, Lovejoy’s also had some of the lowest prices. Their cocktail menu featured a surprising amount of agave-themed drinks, with the prices ranging from 6 to 10 dollars for the most part. The appetizers were in a similar ballpark, with most being under $15. I ordered a Black Dragon, a signature cocktail with a tart and sweet flavor profile. The blackberry was the star of the drink and the lemon and lime wheels offered a nice touch of citrus.
For my appetizer, I was recommended the potstickers. With a spicy drizzle to pair with the dipping sauce, they had a nice crunch and relatively good fillings. While these aren’t going to knock your socks off, they were tasty and filling at a reasonable price. Lovejoys hosts Karaoke, Poker, and Bingo throughout the week, which gives patrons a reason to stop by outside of standard weekend bar-hopping. The entire feeling of the location changes to a bustling pitstop after dark when they swap over to 21-only. While it isn’t a main dance or dive bar in town, it still sits on most college students’ itineraries for a common weekend spot. With a couple of expensive tequilas on the back bar and not much else beyond standard cocktail liquors, Lovejoys is not remarkably expensive, nor does it offer anything that is exceptionally unique. It struck me as a decidedly reliable bar. Between the atmosphere, good service, the food and drink, and reasonable prices, it never feels like it is trying to be anything more than a casual bar and grill in the sea of downtown spots. I would recommend Lovejoys for anyone looking for a good spot to chat with some friends, maybe play some poker, and grab a bite, before moving on to the more prominent dance and dive bars in town.
As always, I encourage all of you once again to drink safely, have fun, and stay classy.
