My official review of the new pub in Highland Park, The Greyhound: The pub looked promising with its beautiful architecture. The ordering of food and drinks is very similar to the York. The good news is the bartenders were really sweet, kind, and welcoming. The beer selection is good, but it lack of selection of IPAs. But that's my thing. Seating is community style. The prices are a bit high, but I guess that's what you get for a trendy spot. It's definitely not Footsie's. The food is good and the portions are large. So don't let the price for you. My friend ordered the fish and chips (very fresh) and it was big enough for three people. The ribeye nuggets are delicious snack to have with your alcohol (Good source of protein to absorb the alcohol). All in all it's a typical pub that's very comparable to the York, the Hyperion Public house, or Mohawk Bend.
But here lies the problem: There was a door guy who was keeping the capacity under control. He kept people outside in a line but would let other people come in. He was unwelcoming, pompous, and rude. It's understandable that capacity is a safety feature, but when you let "certain people" in and keep "certain people" out, it's a problem. Eager neighborhood folk stood in line while fashionable, trendy folk were let in. I observed this because I wanted to see what kind of crowd was coming in to the pub. It broke my heart to see young women be denied entry (I recognized them from the neighborhood). When they were finally let in, their faces were unhappy and I could hear them criticize the place. I don't know if they'll ever return. But this is where it gets good. I informed one of the servers about the situation and she apologized. She then got one of the owners to meet with the women and he offered them a free drink. Shortly after the doorman came to them to apologize but they were unamused with his "forced" apology.
In short: The Greyhound is promising and I hope it sustains itself for years to come. I just hope they understand the kind of attitude and impression that is required to maintain this location a neighborhood establishment (like gracious respect, kindness). Remember, it's the neighborhood that will support it after the "hype crowd" leaves. Good luck Greyhound. I'll be back.
