If you thought the concept of the friendly neighborhood grille and bar was a thing of the past, you might be pleasantly surprised after visiting Lord Ashley’s Pub and Eatery.
Located in a recently renovated retail center in the Oaklandon section of Lawrence, Lord Ashley’s is designed like an old-style tavern with modern amenities such as digital television and free wireless Internet.
One thing you might notice upon entering Lord Ashley’s is its friendly atmosphere – it feels kind of like an extension of a friend’s home.
On your first visit, you can tell that many of the customers are regulars who know each other, but no one stares at you like you have just arrived from outer space, as people do at some places. Servers appear to be welcoming, and guests are greeted warmly and quickly.
You may find yourself thinking of the television sitcom “Cheers,” and Lord Ashley’s has several similarities, down to the Ted Danson-like guy keeping things in order from behind the bar and interacting with those gathered nearby. You get the vibe that after a few visits, it may actually become the place “where everybody knows your name.” All that is missing is the comic relief, but perhaps you can provide that if you become a regular.
Lord Ashley’s is known for its exclusive raised bar area, and plenty of dining seating is available, either near the bar amongst all the action and discussions, or in a more quiet location where you can have a cozy conversation, such as near the fireplace.
Now, for the paramount issue: the food. Lord Ashley’s has a nice variety of it to handle anyone’s taste, from various burgers, steaks, pizza and deli items, to pasta, chicken wings, quesadillas and shrimp.
Some standouts include the pork tenderloin sandwich, the Black Jack chicken sandwich (with bacon, pepper jack cheese, mayo, lettuce, tomato and onion), the pizza nachos, the barbecue smoked brisket wrap and the seafood fettuccine.
Lord Ashley’s signature, half-pound Famous Burger comes with Cajun spices, bacon, sautéed onions and Swiss and American cheeses.
All burgers and sandwiches are served with potato chips and a pickle. Entrees come with either soup or salad, a potato, a vegetable and bread. Any of the satisfying selection of side items can be added for $1.95.
For those who are observing dietary changes as part of the Lenten season, Lord Ashley’s has a variety of salads and soups. Recently, I tried the California salad, which has mixed greens, two cheeses, onions, green peppers, tomatoes, tortilla chips and can be ordered with or without chicken. For a salad, it was pretty flavorful and filling.
Soon, though, I will return to try that Firecracker Reuben, which sounds like a bolder version of the traditional deli sandwich.
Lord Ashley’s prices are reasonably competitive with other restaurants, and lunch specials are offered daily. Each Saturday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. and Sunday from 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m., customers can enjoy an all-you-can-eat breakfast and lunch for $6.99.
One final thing you must realize about Lord Ashley’s is that portions are generous, so if you dine in, expect to take leftovers home. If you have carry out, expect to share, because someone will definitely notice what you have, and will boldly ask for some of it.
