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Pub has GOP flavor, but Democrats are welcome

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By Teri Horsley, Contributing Writer Updated 12:01 AM Friday, November 12, 2010

WEST CHESTER TWP. — Contrary to popular belief, liberals are welcome at West Chester’s Grand Ole Pub.

The eatery features a unique, all-American theme, but with caricatures of Fox News anchors on the wall, and the channel playing on the bar’s TV’s, the owner has been accused of catering to Republicans at the expense of other points of view.

“When my wife and I decided to open a pub we actually wanted it to be a Founding Fathers theme because of our love for America. We are conservative, but we welcome people of all political persuasions,” said owner Bill Langdon.

When entering the pub, one can’t miss the commitment to government with the Wall of Presidents featuring photos of all past leaders. The bar area’s walls are etched with political witticisms and copies of the Constitution are handed out to diners as they order. A back room suitable for private parties features the 9/12 wall, paying tribute to those who served following the 9/11 tragedy.

“On Sept. 12 we were all Americans, not Democrats, not Republican, just Americans, and I wanted to pay tribute to that ,” Langdon said, explaining the wall’s name.

Next to the 9/12 wall is the Wall of Heroes featuring police, firemen and military, all of whom are given a 10 percent discount when eating at the pub.

The menu continues Langdon’s political theme, with The Customer’s Bill of Rights reminding everyone they’re entitled to good food and prompt service. The homemade food choices include dishes like the Grassroots salads and All-American burgers. It’s all capped off with the West Chester Firefighters Hero of the Month sandwich, featuring recipes used while the firemen are on the job.

“My wife is a great cook, and all of the recipes, except the firemen’s are ours,” Langdon said.

Two of the most popular food choices are the Louisiana Purchase gumbo and fried fish sandwich. Portions are extreme and the fish is fried extra crispy and served with heaping helpings of fries or Saratoga chips. While the fish was perfection, the gumbo was a bit mild for my taste, but once properly spiced with Tabasco it was very good. Filled with chicken, rice and special spices, the gumbo’s twist was in the sausage, which is Queen City Smoked instead of Andouille.

Desserts like American Delight, an angel food cake filled with jelly and iced with whip cream are available for those who can still eat after the huge, main course portions.

The Grande Ole Pub targets adults over 35, which means the decibel level is perfect for those who want to engage in political debate or casual conversation. The full-service bar features American drinks wherever possible, including only American wines, and Ocean Vodka, which is made in Hawaii.

Each week, the pub features a special soup such as broccoli cheese or chicken tortilla, and Happy Hour is held weekdays from 4 to 7 p.m. In addition to indoor seating, there is a large, full-service patio that seats 35.

Contact this writer at tlhrsly@cinci.rr.com.

Grand Ole Pub

When: 11 a.m. to Midnight, Sun - Thurs., 11 a.m. to 2:30 a.m. Friday and Saturday. The kitchen is open until 10 p.m. on week nights, and until 11 p.m. on Friday and Saturday. One menu is served all day.

Where: 8177 Princeton-Glendale Road, West Chester Twp., in the strip mall next to Izzy’s.

Cost: Louisiana Purchase gumbo, $8.99, appetizers $2.95 to $8.99. Sandwiches $8.95, wraps $7.95 to $8.95, All-American Man burger $9.95, desserts $3.95 - $5.95. Grassroots salads average $8.99 and soup is $3.95 for a cup, or $5.95 for a bowl.

More information: (513) 942-2444 .

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