The layout of this space is definitely a little strange, but the friendly warm staff, and the eager crowd - is what makes Maiden Publick House a comfortable place to watch live music, enjoy a drink, or satiate yourself with a warm cooked meal.
I wasn't particularly taken by any of Maiden Pub's menu items, but if you enjoy standard pub fare - you should be pleasantly surprised - since they manage to have quite an extensive menu with some fun twists on things. They carry comforting food dishes such as beer battered artichokes, the colossal French Dip, a blue cheese topped buffalo chicken sandwich and much more. That being said - if you're hoping for a simple healthy salad or a light bite - you'll have more success going to a different eatery nearby.
Late at night - this space comes alive with rowdy music, people hanging out on the outdoor patio, and an energetic make-shift dance floor. I found their bar staff to be extremely attentive and kind. No one was left waiting for food or drinks.
If you want some uplifting live music, some fun regulars, and a hearty meal - come here.
Trust.
The service and food were both an easy 5 stars at Maiden Publick House. Â My wife and I vacationed around Big Sur over the new years holiday and stayed in the campground adjacent to this place. Â We tried the pub for our first dinner in the area, and ate there again every night until headed home. Â I'll point out that we're often looking for diversity when vacationing, but not this time. Â We needed a quiet and easy spot for dinners, and this place was perfect. Â We're pretty avid hikers, so the routine was get up, score burrito from the general store, go explore and hike/walk dogs for 5-8 hours, head back to the pub for dinner and beers. Â Then board games. Â It was a good routine.
The food: pretty simple and cooked well. Â We had several sandwiches and a couple entrees over the course of 3 or 4 meals, and all were really good. Â The appetizers were generally pretty top notch as well.
The service was always spot on and kind. Â I generally never waited for a drink refill and when the bar was quiet conversation with the bartenders was always pleasant. Â On top of that, the company was good. Â We met and chatted with various people at the bar over our several days as regulars, and it seemed to be entirely inhabited by nice folks.
The atmosphere was also great. Â Wood burning fire inside for heat, heaters outside for the smokers et al., people brought their dogs into the parking lot to hang out, live music occasionally; all around a good place. Â I'm excited for my next chance to go.