PJ's Pub and Grill in Armory Square is a great place to get a beer and watch the game. Chuck's and Faegan's can get pretty crowded with students on a regular basis, so try heading downtown when you want to avoid the long lines. PJ's is your typical Irish pub with American food that anyone can enjoy.
When to go: Early afternoon gets busy with the lunch break crowd, and since PJ's is far from campus, you won't see many students there during the day. Head over for dinner with some friends for a beer and a burger. The pub can get pretty crowded for dinner, too, especially when a Syracuse sports game is on--but that's the best time to go. PJ's offers different drink specials every night, and Tuesday nights there's live music. If you're not hungry, go hang out at the bar and get a drink with a couple of friends. The bar is open until 2 a.m. The bottom line: The best time to go is during a game. Cheer on the Orange with the locals.
On tap: PJ's has a good selection of beer on tap, including favorites like Bud Light and Blue Moon. Staying true to its Irish theme, the bar offers some Irish classics like Smithwick's and Guinness. The pub also brews its own beer: PJ's IPA. The bottom line: You can't go wrong with their beer selection. There's something for everyone.
Blue plate special: The food is pretty standard, which is great if you're not trying to be adventurous. The menu offers typical bar food like sandwiches and burgers. There are also pasta dishes, chicken specials and steaks. Try the Buffalo chicken wing dip as a starter, it's good to share with friends. There's no signature special, but you can't go wrong with a burger and a fresh, cold beer. The bottom line: There are no surprises. Get a burger with your beer and watch the game.
The Crowd: If you go around dinner time, you'll find a mix of students, locals and families. Whether it's the filet mignon or the chicken fingers, everyone can find something appealing. During a game, you'll find a lot of locals sitting at the wrap-around bar cheering on the Orange. The bottom line: You'll fit in just fine.
The Scene: PJ's is a sports bar with TVs in every corner. During a game, the pub can rock with cheering, so if you want to join in on the Orange Fever, this is the place for you. There are beer logos all over the walls and pictures of Ireland to really put you in the Irish pub mood. The wood tables and large bar give the restaurant a relaxed atmosphere. The bottom line: The atmosphere is perfect for watching an SU game and hanging out.
The Crew: The waiters and bartenders are all friendly and efficient. They take your order and serve you. What else do you need? The bottom line: Nothing to complain about here. The servers do their job well.
The Deets: PJ's is great for a casual dinner or a couple of drinks with your friends while you watch the game. The average price per entree is $14, but there are good budget options, as well. If you're not looking to spend too much, get a burger for $7. Need something a bit fancier? Get the filet mignon for $23. Along with good prices, you'll find a big bar that's accessible from four sides. This is perfect for watching the game on one of the many TVs. There's plenty of seating, including outdoor seating if the weather is nice. There's also a banquet room, which is great if you're planning a big party. PJ's has two entrances and is conveniently located next to a large parking lot and Empire Brewery. The bottom line: This is a great place to watch sports and drink beers with your friends.
Kitchen Hours:
Mon-Sat: 11:30 am-10:00 pm
Sun: 11:30 am-8:00 pm
Bar Hours:
Mon-Sat: 11:30 am- 2 am
Sun: 12:00 pm- 2 am
Review by Litsa Pappas
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