Oh gurrrl, the lobster roll you don't even KNOW!
Minimal expectations for a local with 90% of the clee-ahn-tell perched around the bar drinking domestic longnecks. They knew each other, and not us - the five pack of sailors who caught a mooring and were looking to quell thirsts and sate appetites.
Foods you'd expect on a license plated, NCAA flag-bearing brew pub with one minor twist: the lobster roll (a special at $22) is outrageously delicious!
And bountiful? The toasted buttered split top bun didn't stand a chance against what had to be four claws worth of the of bug, steamed proper and practically unbroken, tossed in a bit of mayo and strewn across a lettuce leaf moisture barrier. Tender, well-seasoned and undeniably fresh, the plate had me in silent awe. Physically. Because my mouth was full.
Free refills on soft drinks, and the servers are sweeter than a molasses flood (too soon?). Adequate fries and a mild slaw played their part, but by golly, did that roll rock! Interrobang.
Around 7:00p on a summer Friday night, we happened on a spot on the curb in front, which translated to a table for 4 in about 20 minutes. Â Lucky for me, there is a playground around the corner that kept the toddler engaged while the gentlemen took advantage of the local brews on tap. Â
Once seated, we started with onion rings.  Our local expert explained the pride that New Englanders take in their onion rings, and it was clear in the  large plate piled high of perfectly golden rings.  Rather than the heavily floured batter that easily separates from the onion itself that I've seen too much of lately, these lightly-battered rings were crisp and tasty - not too greasy and not separating.
While I'd heard good things about the burger, I couldn't miss the seafood this close to the coast. Â I had the fish and chips. Â Again, I appreciated the ratio of batter to fish, and that it was crispy, not soggy. Â The fries were decent, nothing special. Â My main disappointment was that they didn't have malt vinegar, only the tartar sauce that is served with the dish. Â I'm not a fan of coleslaw in general, and the accompanying coleslaw did nothing to remedy that. Â I got a bite of fried shrimp and fried calamari. Â The batter on all of it tasted about the same and had a good amount of crispiness.
My phone was dying, but our server was kind enough to plug it in and keep an eye on it near the bar.
The place was quite busy, so while the server didn't rush us, we hurried out the door to give our spot to others who were waiting.
Great local place that was welcoming for tourists as well!
I have been going to the Ho since I learned to walk- when they used to have the best pancakes this side of the bridge... they do an occasional brunch now a days. I recently went back for dinner and was beyond pleasantly surprised. The food was delicious, drinks (as always strong and tasty) and the service was wonderful.... not to mention the BEST people watching within a solid 10mile radius.
Review Source:I wouldnt go back. I'm a cape cod girl through and through (grew up there) but this doesnt have the food nor the atmosphere! I'm not impressed. Recently went and had a bizarre experience with a 'sting operation' my parents and I ordered dinner and had about 2 glasses of wine each. As we were waiting for our bill these 2 giant men came over to our table were very serious, dressed in casual clothes, introduced themselves as Barnstable police officers and asked to see my license. I'm well over 21 years old and you wouldnt mistake me for someone who is underaged. Regardless the atmosphere is a strange configuration, loud, and food wasnt even good. My dad got the best meal which was a fried clam plate special. I got the roast beef with au jus sandwich.. definitely nothing special.. cold slices of roast beef.. bread was hard, no frills.
Review Source:I love the Kettle-Ho.
I've been coming here since I was a child. It used to look like a little diner/ice cream shop and I'd go here to eat breakfast with my grandfather. Later on, it got really bad. (Somewhere around 2004.) I stopped going and that's pretty bad since our vacation house is few houses down. Well folks, the pendulum has swung and the food is good again! Â Someone fixed the menu and renovated it to look like a local watering hole. THAT is why I like it. It's not pretentious. I don't have to dress up. And I always run into someone I know. What more could you want?
I'd like to see more consistency in the food because when it's good, it's great. Also, the walls could use some SWAG. If its going to be a bar I want to see license plates, college representation and other tchotchke  compiled from the locals and annual vacationers that support it.
like everyone said already - the food is great ( devoured some fresh mussels last nite) the atmosphere is relaxed. The tourists coexist peacefully with the regulars .Fairly good selection of wine - beer great - try that new coffee tequila - sounds gross but a great night cap!
Have fun at the Ho!
It's not the ho you used to know!! I still remember when the Kettle Ho used to be a convenience store type place- I'd get jolly ranchers after a day of sailing with the fam.... ah, nostalgia. Now I get hammered off the wicked strong drinks there with the fam....ah, growing up. The bar is somewhat divey but low key and fun. Last I recall, the food is ok...
Review Source:Best bar in America. Â Friendly employees and patrons, no pretense, delicious drinks and food. Â
"Not the Ho you used to know." Â
Simply epic.
3/2/07 - I feel the need to update my Ho review. Â It's so damn good....I realize I'm pretty easy to please when it comes to bars, given my penchant for adult beverages.
But this really is the shiznit. Â Not to mention it is a 10 minute walk from my best friend's parents' summer house and the beach.
Such a fun joint  - summer folk and locals get along great, and I've never gone there without meeting some new people and having at least one shot or drink bought for me.
On a giggly note, there is a business right next door called Mycock Real Estate and Insurance. Â No lie, check it out for yourself.
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