Big Joe's

A friend took us all out to see the Turtle Races a few Fridays ago and when I entered the place I knew, THIS IS MY NEW BAR.  I'm a midwestern girl who will choose a comfy, relaxed, (read: dive) over a crowded frat joint any day.  It's as if they lifted this place out of the north woods of Wisconsin.  How lucky are we?

The bartender and owner could not have been nicer.  When I asked to see if they had Hacker-Pschorr, they not only had it but insisted I get the proper glass.  That's notthing magical if you're used to $12 martinis and valet parking but for a relaxed place like Big Joes's the extra touch feels special.

Seeking a low-key night out, two friends and I hit Big Joe's for the turtle races. We grabbed some inexpensive beer and found a spot where we'd get a great view of the races.

For some reason (ha!), watching turtles walk around a circle until one of them crosses out doesn't sound all that special. But at Big Joe's, turtle racing is a blast. The excitement is contagious!

We left by midnight; after cheering on a few rounds of turtles (and gabbing for hours at dinner beforehand), we figured we'd experienced the best Big Joe's had to offer. I don't think I'll return for awhile, but I'd definitely be open to going again for a low-key Friday night!

Bring cash.

I haven't been here in 20 years.It used to be the 2& 6 pence pub.