From sterile interiors decorated with local sports paraphernalia to the simple insertion of the word “neighborhood” into an ad slogan (a la Applebee’s), the proliferation of chain restaurants yields an unending series of foolish attempts to recreate a homegrown ambiance.
But a true neighborhood pub requires an intangible blend of atmosphere, attitude and clientele, which cannot be artificially assembled from a corporate boardroom. To see the real thing, travel over to Peabody’s Pub, one of Eugene’s best neighborhood bars.
Inside the softly lit establishment located north of downtown at 444 E. Third Ave., the fireplace crackles while patrons swivel in their seats to trade barbs with the strangers next to them. Cribbage boards sit alongside the saltshakers, and barstools outnumber chairs. The exposed brick wall near the piano gives way to high wooden beams along the ceiling and the occasional upside down house lamp provides just enough light to see across the comfy room.
The wait staff is refreshingly undaunted by striking up conversations with customers, while owner Mike McCreery is not above sitting with clientele or helping take orders when things get busy.
McCreery said he wants to create an atmosphere where people talk and get to know each other. The attitude at Peabody’s is so open that if patrons can’t find a food selection they like on the menu, McCreery said he might have them talk to the chef.
“We have lots of ingredients,” he said, “chances are we can make something you’ll like.”
The most eye-catching selections on the menu are the $5 evening specials served Monday through Saturday, from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. On Mondays they serve fried chicken, fries and a pint of domestic beer. The Tuesday special features a 6 oz. top sirloin steak, salad and small domestic beer. Chicken fried steak with mashed potatoes and gravy is served on Wednesdays, enchiladas with beans and rice on Thursdays. On Friday they offer grilled or pan-fried oysters, fries and a glass of house wine. And on Saturdays they serve a pint of beer and a burger.
The one element that’s slightly out of place amidst the cozy confines is the gargantuan television projection screen, which belongs inside an ESPN Zone Bar instead of a neighborhood joint.
The bar features live music every night, and McCreery said his goal is to feature quieter acts so his
clientele can still comfortably talk to one another.
Though the crowd at Peabody’s is twice the age of the typical University student, the ambiance remains perfect for students looking to branch out, kick back and enjoy the company of strangers.
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