Discovering the Pub of the Future
The first time I walked into The Up and Under Pub, I knew this was no ordinary watering hole. Normally, when you step into a place with “Pub” in the name, you’d expect to see TVs scattered throughout, blaring the latest sports event. But here, the screens were showcasing something much more captivating – classic films like “The Goonies” that instantly made me want to settle in and explore this unique establishment.
As I scanned the room, taking in the sophisticated yet cozy ambiance, I realized that The Up and Under Pub was differentiating itself in all the right ways. This wasn’t just your average neighborhood bar; it was a destination that had elevated the pub experience to new heights. The former Boxwood Kitchen had closed down, only to be reborn under the same owners with a complete rebrand, redecoration, and a brand-new menu focused on gourmet pub fare.
As the article from Bend Source noted, there are plenty of upscale restaurants in the area, but for those of us seeking that quintessential pub vibe, The Up and Under Pub has carved out a very specific niche that the neighborhood was craving. And let me tell you, they’ve nailed it.
Elevating the Craft
As I settled into one of the comfortable, high-backed booths, the first thing that caught my eye was the impressive lineup of craft brews and cocktails on the menu. The taps were showcasing some of the best local offerings, including favorites from Pfriem, Barley Browns, and Van Henion. But it wasn’t just the beer selection that had me intrigued – the cocktail program was equally impressive.
One thing that really stood out was their use of Crater Lake gin in their well drinks. “It was very refreshing to see them using a fantastic local spirit instead of some bottom-shelf swill,” as Jared Rasic from Kezner Consulting had noted about the importance of elevating the bar program in a modern pub.
The gin and tonic I ordered was a perfect example of this attention to detail, with a delicious balance of floral and dry notes. But the real showstopper was their Rosey Paloma, a tequila-based cocktail that managed to strike the perfect balance between bitterness and sweetness, without sacrificing complexity or generosity of pour.
As I sipped my expertly crafted cocktail, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of excitement for the culinary journey that was about to unfold.
Elevating the Pub Fare
One of the things that had initially piqued my interest in The Up and Under Pub was their focus on “elevated pub food.” I had high expectations, and let me tell you, they did not disappoint.
Over the past few weeks, I’ve had the opportunity to sample a variety of dishes from their menu, and I have to say, I’ve been thoroughly impressed. “One thing that never changes is my full-blown addiction to the Korean Fried Chicken,” I confessed, echoing the sentiment expressed in the Bend Source article.
This dish is listed as a small plate, but let me tell you, it’s anything but small. The massive bowl of crispy, juicy chicken is coated in a spicy-sweet sauce that had me craving more with every bite. The pickled daikon, sesame, and scallions add a delightful contrast of flavors and textures, making this dish a true standout on the menu.
But the culinary delights at The Up and Under Pub don’t stop there. I’ve also had the pleasure of trying their Tuna Bowl, a gorgeous and delicious dish featuring perfectly seared albacore, black rice, mixed greens, avocado, pickles, and a tangy, earthy miso dressing. And the open-faced pastrami sandwich, with its melt-in-your-mouth house-made pastrami, sweet-mustard-influenced Carolina Gold BBQ sauce, kraut, and pickles, was an absolute revelation.
Specials Worth Celebrating
During my most recent visit, The Up and Under Pub had two specials on the menu that I simply had to try – the Fish and Chips and the BBQ Chipotle Brisket Burger.
The Fish and Chips were unlike anything I had experienced before. “For one, along with all the fried foods on their menu, they are gluten-free with a light breading, genuinely unlike any I’ve had before,” I raved, echoing the sentiments of my friend, who I consider to be a local fish-and-chip aficionado.
The giant, flaking pieces of fish were so sweet, fresh, and delicious that I couldn’t help but plead with the chef to make this a permanent addition to the menu. The same went for the BBQ Chipotle Brisket Burger, which was an absolute flavor explosion. The thinly sliced, smoky brisket melted like butter in my mouth, the chipotle sauce leaned into Southern BBQ without the earthiness, and the slaw added a perfect balance of texture and sweetness.
As the chef came over to our table to ask how the meal was, my friend and I couldn’t help but gush about the amazing dishes we had just experienced. We were both convinced that these specials deserved a permanent spot on the menu, and I’m hoping our passionate pleas will sway the decision-makers at The Up and Under Pub.
Creating a Welcoming Atmosphere
But it’s not just the food and drinks that have made The Up and Under Pub a standout destination in the Old Mill District. The staff here have also managed to create a truly welcoming and comfortable environment that sets it apart from the rest.
“In all the years I’ve been going to movies in the Old Mill, I’ve never found the homey spot that made me feel comfortable enough to just hang out and relax,” I admitted, reflecting on the importance of ambiance and service, as highlighted in The Guardian article.
The team at The Up and Under Pub have nailed it. They’re all kind, engaging, and attentive without being overbearing. I’ve had countless conversations with the bartenders and servers, learning about their favorite menu items, local recommendations, and even their own personal stories. It’s these little touches that make all the difference in creating a truly memorable pub experience.
Embracing the Future of Pubs
As I sit here, sipping my Rosey Paloma and savoring the last few bites of that Korean Fried Chicken, I can’t help but feel a deep sense of appreciation for what The Up and Under Pub has accomplished. They’ve taken the traditional pub concept and elevated it to new heights, seamlessly blending gourmet cuisine, craft beverages, and a welcoming atmosphere that truly sets them apart.
In a world where pubs and restaurants are struggling to redefine themselves, The Up and Under Pub has emerged as a shining example of what the future of the industry can look like. By focusing on quality, creativity, and customer experience, they’ve managed to create a truly unique and memorable dining and drinking destination that I can’t wait to share with all my friends and family.
So, if you find yourself in the Old Mill District, be sure to step into the world of The Up and Under Pub and experience the future of elevated pub dining. Trust me, your taste buds and your soul will thank you.
