It must have been a few years ago when I heard that there was a “boxing themed restaurant” coming to 50th street in what I now consider the new “little Italy” of Kansas City. At the time, I took a moment to consider whether I had ever been in or even heard of a boxing themed establishment. I had not. When Bell Ringers Pub and Grub opened in the Crossroads, I thought that it must be the place and the proprietor had decided to change locations before opening. Apparently, I was wrong. There’s now a Jack Gage American Tavern open at 5031 Main. Previously, I had never heard of a boxing themed bar or restaurant. Now we have two in KCMO. The demand for this type of venue must be overwhelming.
Naturally, I cruised over there recently to check it out. I was pleasantly surprised by the place. It’s not awkwardly modern, stuffed full of hipsters, covered in mass-produced kitsch, or any of the other qualities that would send me into a beer-fueled rant. Instead, I found dark wood, helpful staff, and tolerable patrons. I won’t pretend to be able to tell you much about the food other than the fact that it’s more restaurant than bar. I’ll let folks like Mr. Ferruzza handle that.
Instead, I noticed two things about their beer selection. The first was that they had Boulvard’s Tank 7 on tap. It’s nice to see a place that offers more than Wheat and Pale from our local brewer. I love a good glass of Tank 7 occasionally. It’s pretty sweet, so I won’t drink it all night, but one glass is fun.
The other thing I noticed about their beer on tap is that they had Boulevard’s Irish on tap. Am I the only one who thinks it’s too early to bring out Irish? It’s my understanding that it’s their best selling seasonal, so I guess that’s why it gets three months instead of two. That aside, it feels like when I walk into target in August and they have their Halloween candy out. It’s too early for this!
I look forward to heading back to Jack Gage’s. It seems like a great, neighborhood spot for a date. They have great food, great staff, and plenty of local beers on tap. I wonder where the next boxing themed place will open?
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