Underground Grass

Bramhall Pub has been around since the beginning of time and is located below The Roma Cafe, an upscale Italian restaurant built inside the Rines Mansion. The restaurant claims to be the "Most Romantic Restaurant" and serves entrees like Filet Mignon, Rack of Lamb and Pistachio-encrusted Salmon. The pub, however, is not near as ritzy and claims no romantic atmosphere, although I'm sure many a patron has found temporary love within its doors.

This place is inconspicuous. You could easily walk past without noticing the tiny sign or the awning that simply reads "Pub." (If you've gotten to Bingas, you've gone to far.) The entrance looks shady, but fear not. Walk down those stairs and through the doors on the left and you'll find your new favorite bar. You can't not like this place.

Inside you'll find charming exposed brick walls and a welcoming atmosphere. The bar wraps around in an "L" shape. To the left is a little nook where bands play and to the right are tables and booths. If you walk straight ahead, going under the brick archway, you'll find the dartboards (the venue sells dart equipment, should you be in need). Behind the bar are the bathrooms and if you keep walking around the bar you'll find another room, more brightly lit, with a pool table and pinball machine.

Like every bar, the Bramhall has its regulars. They are a good crew of blue-collar folks who'll bullshit with just about anyone. Grab a seat at the bar, order a beer and make a friend for the night. Even the bartenders are fun to talk to - and I'm not one to socialize.

Thursday nights are the most crowded. Jerks of Grass play a couple sets (cover charge is a mere $2) and everyone comes out to hear them. Truly, you're not a real Mainer if you haven't gone to see Jerks of Grass at the Bramhall. I couldn't find a video of the band playing at Bramhall, but just listen to how damn good they are in this one. Keep listening, because at 2 min 40 sec Kris Day slays you with his upright bass solo.

There's not much more to say. Just go there this Thursday. You'll see...