We come to Patrick's every Tuesday night for pub trivia (hooray Savants of Question! Go Ben and Tom!) and I've developed a pretty good sense of what Patrick's is and isn't.
Patrick's is a beer, wings, and burgers joint and they do pretty well at all three. They always have something interesting on tap, a decent selection of other booze, and plenty of tasty beverages (including 1919 Root Beer) for those who don't drink. Patrick's has a ridiculous selection of wing flavors that'll suit any taste, and if you go on the right nights the wings are cheap enough to mix and match so your table can try a bit of everything. The burgers are the star of the show at Patrick's; they have a whole bunch of different and interesting topping combinations, and often have even more fun burgers on special. Half of the star I'm withholding is due to the fact that my burgers are sometimes overcooked past the point of being juicy inside, but the toppings and enough salt and pepper keep them edible.
That said, Patrick's isn't an Irish pub. They may have Irish items on the menu now and again and for special occasions, but otherwise the menu lacks any sort of entree options. If you're eating at Patrick's you're eating pub grub, and that's the other half of the star I held back. I really wish traditional Irish pub food (Shephard's Pie, Bangers and Mash, Pasties, etc.) were regular menu items.
Patrick's is a college bar, it's walking distance from Gustavus and often has specials which cater to that crowd. They have sports up on TVs all over the bar, and normally has live music at least once a week.
That said, Patrick's isn't a dive. The bar itself is sort of divey, but the place is open and lively enough that if you just want to stare at your drink for a few hours you're better off going elsewhere.
Patrick's is a family restaurant. The servers are super-friendly and there's a decent selection of kid's menu options.
That said, Patrick's isn't a healthy restaurant. The menu is almost entirely short-order and even the salads include cheese and sometimes meats which take them out of the 'smart eating' category. There are a few nods toward vegetarians and burger patties can be subbed out for black bean patties, but if you're counting calories Patrick's is gonna break the bank.
Finally, Patrick's is solidly a hometown joint. The place is locally owned and you're likely to see your neighbors there, if only because it's one of the only restaurants in town. That said, Patrick's supports the community and is a registered 'Safe Bar' where any sort of harassment or violence is not at all tolerated. It's a genuinely nice place to go.
One final note, always order the Buff Chips as your side. Ermahgerd the Buff Chips are so good. read more