If one were to open a new Tavern...

[BarbarianQueen]

If one were to open a small tavern, one where the atmosphere was intentionally throwback/indeterminate (modern? Ancient? Medieval?), one which featured good music from intimate acts (think Wolgemuth, Istanpita, Flook, Circa Paleo, etc), even better beer, a place where the young and the old could raise a glass together and forget about 21st century problems, a place where the occasional Kilt or bodice might be seen, and a pirate singalong or a Dropkick Murphry's Night would not be unusual...

- Where in the Houston Metroplex would it have the highest regular support (location)?
- What other aspects would it need to become a weekly watering hole for the "time out of mind" folks, as well as the anachronistic post-modern generation?
- What negatives would keep it from being a successful establishment?
- Any other thoughts on this topic?

[PollyPoPo]

The fact that it is in Houston and not closer to me would be a barrier.

But, as some here know, I'm wiped out early and in bed before these guys even start their walk-abouts or receiving guests, so I'd never make it to a city tavern after dark either.  I used to, truly I did.

What I would enjoy if I were a bit younger, would be:

1.  Tavern keepers that held to the 21 years old and up fast and true. 

2.  Some decent tavern food (no decomposed, uh, deconstructed foods or foods praised by how high it can go without toppling). 

3.  Wall coverings that kill excess sound instead of echoing it back on the patrons (something bad that has been happening in restaurants for several years - acknowledged goal is to get people to leave soon after eating, and not linger to talk).

4.  Comfortable chairs (stools at bar, booths with belly room, etc.)

5.  Weapons/armor display on walls.  Portraits with eyes that follow one around the room.

6.  Peace tied weapons policy (like TRF) so people could bring their weapons for showing off, but not actually use them.  (Not sure if that's legal).

[Terre Albert]

I think someone should open at 30 and up bar.  21 - 29 you still don't have a clue about what you want.  You haven't been devorced.  Your kids are still at home with the babysitter.  You don't have any toys. (cars, motorcycles, or boats)  Let's build something for people like us!!!

[Merlin the Elder]

Anything for the Millennium-and-up crowd? Is there anyone but me?

[PollyPoPo]

Well, my granddaughter calculated me at about 6 millennia, so I might qualify for that Tavern, Merlin.

[dbaldock]

Even though I live down by NASA (and would love to have a local Pub with some live Traditional Celtic / Renaissance music), I'd say the most favorable location to build one would be West / North-West of Downtown Houston.

Both McGonigel's Mucky Duck and Firkin & Phoenix Pubs are in the River Oaks / Neartown area to the West, near Hwy-59 & Shepherd.

Also, a lot of the people who are involved with TRF (and this Forum) live between Downtown and TRF, in the area bounded by I-10 and I-45.


Take Care,
David Baldock

[RenStarr]

This isn't exactly a Tavern, but it's a cool idea.  Check out this link:  http://www.vikinginn.com/

The short story is this:  it's a bed & breakfast, small tavern, feast and show all rolled into one.  I suppose one could pick any time period, this guy just picked a Viking theme.  I saw a short bit on the travel channed awhile back on this establishment.  If your not up to speed on the period clothing, he can provide that to you also.  Drink, eat, laugh, and when your done........drag your arse upstairs and crash.  Sounds good to me.

[DonaCatalina]

I am picturing something with booths set in alcoves That might look like an old Tudor mansion/Roman Villa/abandoned church had been converted to an Inn.


Tapestries or curtains on the walls could mute the sound somewhat without deadening all of the acoustics.
http://www.tapestriesdirect.co.uk/
Food would be basic and well done.  Like roast beef sandwiches or chicken hand pies.

[Merlin the Elder]

Perhaps like the Royal Dumpe Dinner Theatre in St Louis?

[Gauwyn of Bracknell]

Perhaps like the Royal Dumpe Dinner Theatre in St Louis?

The Royal Dumpe ?? - made me laugh

[BarbarianQueen]

I guess we were thinking a lot simpler - not necessarily a "themed" place, but a place that didn't scream "21st century" and from an entertainment, food and beverage standpoint, include the "ren sensibilities".
We really like The Ginger Man downtown, the Red Lion Pub near Montrose ($$$!), and a couple of other places, but they still just don't. quite. get it. just. RIGHT...

Lord Scott has always wanted to open a friendly establishment as a second career,  one where seeing a peasant blouse, cinched bodice, and, well you know what goes with that combo of garb behind the bar would not be unusual, where 6 types of Meade were available, and where the gents could show up in a kilt and feel right at home.
We haven't found it yet - so why not open one?

[KiltedPrivateer]

Wait a second, is there a place in Houston where a man can't feel at home in a kilt?
This can't be (o:

(Subtle Note:
<------  Kilted 365 days a year.  No, it is not too cold for a kilt)

[Breandan]

wherever two or more rennies gather, there, too, shall kilts be 

[DonaCatalina]

LOL. Yes- I even see kilts at Grapefest now.

[Lord Virgo]

Northwest Houston!!!!!!!  But I must admit I am biased.  Either way if you do carry on this endeavor please keep us posted because we will frequent this glorious establishment