Club Scene:
Jake's Grub n Grog
7 East River Rd.
Brewerton, NY
315-668-3905

by Robert Ferguon

The hottest days of the year have arrived, and no one wants to spend July trapped in the air conditioning. Luckily, around the CNY area, there are plenty of waterside areas to cool off, such as Brewerton, which abuts the Oneida River. Along the waterway, one can find a number of venues for music, food, and drinks. Among the best of these is Jake's Grub and Grog, an up-and-coming spot that has a reputation for a good live show, and personable, family-run service.

Jake's Grub and Grog opened a year ago, and business has been increasing ever since. The success could be for several reasons: Jake's has great help, impressive specials, and a good-time feel that's noticeably lacking at chain restaurants. At Jake's, everyone is promised a good time . . . and a clean bathroom!

Wednesday nights at Jake's are packed full of people, ready to see some first-rate cover bands like Brand New Joe and T.J. Sacco. And enjoy the sweet specials, such as $2 cans of Labatt. Almost every night of the week, Jake's offers a reason to get out of the house and go there for a much needed break. Two dollar cans and thirty-cent wings begin at 6 pm on Thursday. Then, at seven, the real fun starts with volleyball in the back. Jake's has a plentiful outdoor seating area, and several courts for hours of serve-and - spike action.

If thirty-cent wings aren't enough to wet your appetite, then pick a different night. Smirnoff may be your thing, so go out for Twisted Tuedays, for $3 Smirnoff bottles. There are also unique deals aviable all the time at Jake's, like five PBR bottles for $10, or five Bud bottles for $12. They have top beers on tap, such as Guiness, and house-named mixed drinks, including a Grub and Grog Russian, which brings a buzz to the brain.

Those at the bar will probably want to check out the popcorn, but anyone arriving with a bigger appetite should know that Jake's has a full menu, which features appetizers, seafood pasta entrees, ribs, pulled pork, as well as traditional pub foods, all at a very affordable price. For seafood lovers, Jake's offers dollar for a dozen clam specials regularly.

Be wary of one thing: on many bar profile websites, Jake's Grub and Grog is listed as being located at 7 River Island Drive. This is incorrect, and will take you to a dead-end street. The actual address is 7 East River Road, and is easy to get to. Just take the Brewerton exit, go over the bridge over the Oneida river, and make a right onto 37, and look for East River Road.

On July 12th, Jake's will be holding a Poker Run and Rodeo. For $10 dollars, this will include food, music, and stops at Lloyd's, Ranther Lake, Happy Valley, and Boat House. Should be a fun time for all.