Jack Potts Tavern

I really like this place as a music venue. I have been here a few times to listen to bands, once during Bockfest, and generally have found it to be a pleasant experience. It is a nice open space that doesn't make you feel so jammed in if it gets crowded (unlike the parlor room at Southgate for example.)I really like the brick interior, it gives it an old school OTR vibe. The beer selection isn't too terrible, a little minimalist but I am able to find something I like to drink. I will say that I don't particularly enjoy that I can pay the same price for the same beer but it will come in different size glasses, so either they stiffed me or were very generous but either way consistency would be nice. Also, my friend order a Christian Moerlein Helles and when it poured it was actually PBR but the waitress didn't notice anything wrong. We had to get someone else before they realized they mixed the taps up.

This is a great space but I'm not quite sure I like what they are doing with it.  There aren't enough seats for one...and the sound is quite awful - I havent been able to determine if it is the soundperson or the equipment but every band I've heard here thus far has been mired in everything turned up to 11 and full distortion.  

The stage where the band plays is nice as you can see them from the street.  The taps are OK nothing spectacular but I'm not the best one to determine this.  Presumably owned by retired fireman, the decor could be something unique and special but so far it hasn't turned out that way. The crowds continue to be thin at Jack's even on Friday and Saturday nights and the bands I've seen booked are good but carry no buzz - therefore no crowds.  

I do like their penchant for indie music...I hope they can make a go of it but some changes will have to be made for that to happen.

Only one other review? I've been a few times, Bockfest, MPMF, etc.

It has a small bar feel because it has a brick wall divider down the middle, separating it into two long, thin, areas. On the one side there is standing, a couple tables, dancing and usually a band. The stage is a corner of the room, slightly raised, but in a cool "fishbowl" environment with the full length glass windows. Sometimes the bands will even play to or interact with the street crowd.

The other side is a bar. The prices are reasonable, the selection acceptable, and the crowd seems to be a bit rowdy when the action is underway. It's not a dive, it's not fancy, it's just your average local, corner bar, with an understated vibe, and often energetic entertainment.

The best thing about this area is that if you aren't totally satisfied with any one bar, you can walk a few feet to the next one. Or just try to hit them all. I'm not judging. ;)