I have loved James's Gate for years. I used to live closer and it was my go-to pub. I had taken my Dad there, my friends, and anybody coming out of town. I wanted to show them the best "pub" in the area.
What makes it so good? The food is amazing. So are the drinks and the beer selection. I feel like many bars don't have a "real" chef. That sounds terrible, and I could be wrong, but I feel like for a pub it is more about the drinking and general pub food (fries, burgers etc...) could get away with a less experienced cook. Again, I could be wrong, I am not in the food industry. But, I do know that Jame's Gate has an amazing chef on board. His name on the menu and I feel like a jerk for not remembering. The presentation of the food is great and it tastes amazing. I like their meatloaf and a fish stew that they have. Brunch is also great.
As stated, drinks are good. Great Bloody Mary's for brunch. Beer selection is on point.
I like how the bar area has a fireplace that they get going in the winter. Cozy. The dining room is separate from the bar and very nice. This works for a nice dinner out, or a drink at the bar to watch a game. As I said, I've been going here several years and am never disappointed.
We looove James's Gate! It's one of our most favorite JP places and having lived here for 18 years (!) I've tried them all. We always come back to the Gate for their yummy food and great cozy atmosphere. It's great to sit on the bar side but we also love the restaurant side for "fancier" occasions.
I'm never disappointed with the service or food here! A++!
FYI: Some people in other reviews are mad that they sat on the bar side and no one took their order. If you sit on that side, you need to walk up to the bar and place your order. There are not waiters in the bar area.
I can't believe I have been living in JP for a year now, and I only had dinner here last week. Why????
James's Gate is my favorite spot in JP now. Thank god because I was looking for a new neighborhood hang out since the mission is no longer nearby. I like how it's divided into 2 sections. One is the more casual bar/pub scene. It has a decent sized bar for the space, tables and even a fireplace. I can imagine in the winter it must be very cozy. The other side is the restaurant portion, but still casual. There is a bar there too, but more sit down tables for dinner.
Good beer selection, and the menu has a wide variety. My inner child had been craving mac n'cheese so I ordered that. A-maze. I made it extra unhealthy by adding bacon. I loved it
Our waitress was very nice and quick, but she still backed off enough to give me and my friend some space. I seriously had an awesome time here. So glad it's just down the street from me. I know where I'll be hanging out this summer :)