Bear Branch Tavern- don’t get the hype

[Anonymous]

I don’t understand the hype the Vienna Moms and foodie groups have for this place. It is always so underwhelming. What am I missing? What do people like about this place?

[Anonymous]

I like it but it’s basically Patsy’s but in Vienna. There aren’t many casual table service non Asian places in Vienna.

[Anonymous]

I like the drinks but the menu is not to my taste.

The patio is their big selling feature, IMO. Vienna has plenty of casual table service options but many are in less attractive settings or lack nice outdoor seating.

[Anonymous]

Ouch OP, way to target a good small business. I like it because it has a varied menu with healthier and high quality ingredients, but still tasty. Their salads are awesome + the buddha bowl. Admittedly, I don't go for the fried sandwiches or typical bar fare.

[Anonymous]

I love the vegetarian appetizers and the fries!!

[Anonymous]

Was there this weekend and thought the exact opposite - loved the vibe and the food. Went to watch football with a group of friends and it was exactly what we were looking for. If you don’t like it, don’t go? It’s pretty simple! Less wait (and fewer bad vibes) for the rest of us!

[Anonymous]

I went once and won’t go back. Food was underwhelming and expensive. I’m ok with underwhelming and I’m ok with expensive, but not both. It’s definitely not as good as Patsy’s.

[Anonymous]

OP, I totally get you. I like the idea of Bear Branch - it's a fun place (and really close to my house, which I love) - but the menu is not good! My husband and I always have trouble deciding what to get. It needs to lean in more to what it is - a pub/tavern. I don't want to go there for fancy food (I myself am a vegetarian, and should be over the moon for all the veggie options, but I don't really love any of the salads!)

I will still support it - I love the live music on the weekends, but will eat before I go.

[Anonymous]

OP here. I am happy to support it but I just don't get the love. The first time I went, I ordered wings and a beer while sitting at the bar. I am not a fast drinker but my beer was entirely done before I even got my wings. And the bar wasn't even missing. The other few times I've been, it was a similar experience with different issues. I am not even that high maintenance but like one PP said, it doesn't match the cost and quite frankly, the enthusiasm it gets from the Vienna crowd.

[Anonymous]

the bar wasn't even *busy* (not missing)