First I want to say the thing I like bets about the CAH is that it is uniquely Carolinian, not a nationwide box restaurant. That adds a local flavor to the establishment which is quite nice. It is a curious mix of family restaurant and boisterous sports bar at once, yet somehow it works. The atmosphere is almost always loud and upbeat which is probably what it was designed to be, almost something like a roadhouse or octoberfest. The enclosed patio area is also a really nice touch. As for sports viewing you really can't beat it; TVs everywhere with any game you want. The staff is always friendly, a couple of glitches here and there with missed orders, but it was forgiveable. Barstaff is some of the best I have ever seen. But I do have a few issues with it. First is the layout. When the place is crowded it can be really tricky to navigate the bar area with it's clutter of tables and tight passes. They put the pool tables right by the bathroom entrances which makes it hard to play in peace with a constant stream of people moving around you. The area also attracts a lot of kids. Not that I have anything against kids, but they are a constant distraction when you are trying to play. It would be nice to say ""no kids on the pool tables after 9pm"" or something like that. It really does get that irritating. The second issue is the food just ain't that great. It's ok, but not worth what you pay for it. The pizza is especially horrifying. And finally beware the roving managers watching you. They do things like come right up to you and give you a high five as a sobriety test, and you won't know it's a manager sizing you up. Next thing you know you're cut off, and whether or not you deserved to be, that's just a sneaky and weird way of doing it. Makes you feel uncomfortable. Otherwise I like the Ale House very much. It's fun, reasonably priced, and a great atmosphere. Recommend.
Pros: Fun atmosphere, nice big feel to it, great staff, beer specials, terrific sports bar
Cons: so-so food, no control of children, occasional service fumbles
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