Located off of Skyland Ridge Parkway in Brier Creek, Carolina Ale House is an upbeat sports bar and pub.
When I first walked in, I was amazed by all the items and pictures hanging on the wall. I was seated by a friendly hostess at a ‘high top’ table with high stools as seats. There were many large TV’s, all of which were broadcasting different sporting events.
The Ale House menu was very extensive, featuring mostly bar food, such as chicken wings, sandwiches, cheeseburgers and other fried foods. But, customers also had the option to order healthier foods, such as salads, and fish dishes. Their prices are very average; I didn’t see any entrees that were over $15.
I noticed that their clientele was mostly men in their early twenties, families of all ages and older couples. There was a kids menu, and all the TV’s and bright colors were sure to keep everyone entertained.
The establishment was very large, with two main seating areas and a giant bar in the middle. There was also an outdoor seating area. Tables were wiped down often, and I didn’t notice anything that was dirty.
I ordered a sandwich off of the menu — a ‘Philly Cheese Steak’ to be exact. After about 20 minutes, it arrived. The portion was huge; the plate was more like a platter. Considering how much food that I can put away on a regular basis, it’s quite an accomplishment for a restaurant to give me a serving that even I can’t finish. Unlike most restaurants, it was not just a big piece of bread with a small amount of the actual sandwich in it; the fillings inside the hoagie were actually falling out.
My companions ordered the fish tacos and a cheeseburger, and again the proportions were just as large. All the food at our table seemed to have a good ratio of the different parts of the food — it was definitely worth the money.
Overall, Carolina Ale House is a very good restaurant. The food was flavorful, and the staff was very pleasant and speedy. I recommend it to any family that is looking for a night out where they can all enjoy themselves — there are sports for the whole family, the ambiance is energetic and colorful and it’s close to popular shopping centers.
