by Joe Wilhelm Jr.
Staff Writer
The London Bridge Pub will turn six this November and continues to evolve as a neighborhood hangout.
Recent improvements to the building include tearing out the ceiling in the “upstairs” section of the pub, adding new fans and a new beer cooler to hold some of the 60 beers it offers.
“There’s a lot more space in here now,” said John Huntington, “Master Chef” at the pub. “The work we’ve done with the ceiling and painting has helped us to make the place a lot brighter, less dingy.”
A red border has been painted on the walls just below the ceiling throughout the pub and the removal of the ceiling should help acoustics, Huntington said. A promoter has recently been hired to book musical acts to take advantage of the improved acoustics in the pub.
Local talent and touring groups will be featured Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights, and budding artists will also get a chance on Thursday with an “Open Mike” night.
Pub patrons can enjoy a bite to eat almost as long as they can enjoy the music.
“We serve a full menu the latest Downtown,” said Huntington.
The kitchen doesn’t close until 11 p.m. on the weekends and it is poised to offer new dinner specials to offer guests “a break from British fare.” A few of the selections will be rosemary lamb kabobs and apricot mustard-glazed pork chops.
The dinner menu may be getting some new selections, but the lunch crowd enjoys one of the cheapest meals in town. The pub offers half price burgers on Tuesday and Thursday, which includes chips and a drink for $4.95.
Despite all the improvements, customers keep coming back for the service. Employees know a lot of the customers by first name and that adds to the family atmosphere.
“I’ve seen this place go through three different bars,” said Bob Kitker, 74, of Jacksonville, who brings his dog, Cappy, with him from time to time. “It’s a good place.”