Mother’s Ruin

Mother’s ruin which is located in Soho is a bar with surprisingly good brunch. The catch is, you have to come really early so you won’t have to wait and make sure you’re not too hungry since your order may take a while to come out. I think running a bar is different from running a restaurant; if you are multi talented, very ambitious store owners (put into consideration the soaring rent + other factors), it makes sense to serve both food and drinks.

Interior with mirror to give the illusion of a bigger space

Cappuccino made by bartender that was actually strong and good.

waited half an hour for this but it did not disappoint- “Tri Tip Hash- Worcestershire Marinated Steak Bites, Poached Eggs, Red Bliss Potato Hash” (quoted from website)- Deliciously savory, hits a spot.

“‘Eggo’ Waffles- Wings with Cholula Honey Glaze, Buttermilk Dressing” (quoted from the website)- Not too crazy about the eggo waffles that gets a bit soggy but the chicken is super spicy and deliciously crispy.

Mother’s ruin is not your typical brunch place because of the atmosphere and attitude. They won’t rush you out even if there’s a line of people waiting. The price is reasonable but just make sure you don’t go there when you’re starving because the wait can make you even more famished.

Lillie’s Victorian Bar & Restaurant

Like many places with unique ambience, Lillie’s Victorian Bar & Restaurant is a restaurant with a story. If you go to the restaurant’s website, it tells you Lillie was a famous British actress from the 19th century. The main painting near the fireplace of the restaurant is of her, a portrait beautifully painted with oil paint; rendered realistically and could be one of the many treasures they described which were used as decors exported from Ireland.

There are two locations: one in Union Square and one in Times square, we went to the one in Union Square.

Bar spaced leading to the back where there is more seating.

Closer look at the highly decorative Corinthian columns and red velvet stools.

Another shot of the place opposite side of the bar.

Antique decorations covered the bare brick wall. Perhaps some treasures are from Ireland.

Chandeliers hanging from high ceiling. Very close together.

Painting on glass on the wall. Pretty.

Painting of Lillie Langtry as centerpiece right above fireplace.

Burger is mediocre but very greasy and fries is ok. Lunch special from 11am-2pm is pretty good; you get a few selections such as burger, sandwich or salad and it comes with either beer, coffee or tea for $12. 🙂

Lillie’s Restaurant is definitely a place worth going to just for the ambience. After viewing the portraits and being in a Victorian antique store, the novelty eventually wears off. I would not recommend going there for food but it seems like a nice place to grab a drink and relax.

Eamonn’s Bar & Grill

Eamonn’s bar & grill is in the vicinity of Rockefeller Center in Midtown. Usually it’s full of city dwellers who work nearby, but from time to time, some tourists will find their way to this 2 storied bar. It is a place my friend has been going to for years (5+) for safe options and good food; in fact, although she does not frequent the place anymore because of her job, the manager still remembers her and greets her as though she’s a regular.

The Irish pub’s specialty is definitely potatoes!

Typical bar setting- Narrow building and dimmed lights.

Onion Rings- Crispy and yummy. Uses real onions and they are HUGE.

Steak with fries- Gaelic butter on steak which is tasty- not exordinary but just homemade kind of goodness with juicy steak and good sauce- Fries is one of their specialties, it is crispy on the outside and the thickness is just right so that there is a good balance between crispiness and starchy potatoes.

Shepherd’s Pie- Main character! The beef stew underneath the mashed potatoes is hearty with split peas, bits of carrots and grounded beef; the fluffy mashed potatoes on top is airy and smooth. Super delicious- I don’t think I have tasted a better Shepherd’s pie ever.

Finishing it is a huge achievement! It’s very filling! 🙂

Notes without pictures:
1) Burgers is better than standard places because the bread does not get soggy and their speciality fries is served on the side.
2) Fish and Chips is good at this place too; it doesn’t taste like the frozen alternative and is close to the quality of The Chips shop. Fish tastes fresh and their tartar is delicious.

Eeamonn’s bar and grill is a place we usually go to when we can’t think of a new place to try; it is our safe alternative for a hearty meal! Usually it’s very packed on Thursdays and Fridays. They definitely serve more than bar food and the portions are generous!