by Seve' M. on The last time I was actually here was probably in 2007, but I was going through someone else's reviews and it reminded me. I had a blast here and it was during Labor Day Weekend so it was massive. Not sure if I would have waited on that long line but luckily the Loews can call over and set up everything for you if need be. Upstairs was roped off but still damn near standing room only. It literally stayed moving until 4 when everything had to shut down. Great place to people watch but I'm not sure how good it is if you had to nickle and dime with individual drink prices.
by Kate B. on National Mechanics is like a long-time boyfriend to me: cozy, familiar, and everything I look for in a mate: clean, attractive, and fun to be around. Housed in a former bank-turned-church-turned-Coyote-Ugly bar, National Mechanics (or NattyMechs, as I like to call it) has retained elements of all three: high ceilings, brick walls, dark paint, narrow, wooden church pews, stained glass windows, and a long, gorgeous bar -- although you'd be hard-pressed to find anyone dancing on it. During lunch, they have cheap burgers and veggie burgers, and during Happy Hour, all drafts are $1 off. My favorite night to come to NM's is Wednesday for Quizzo with Irish John (3+ hours of spelling words using reproductive organs/arguing about the absolute zero of water); but the vibe in here is pretty much always kicking. Of course, like any long-term partner, NattyM's and I have had our tiffs - like when they raised the price of the lunch burger from $5 to $6 -- and the popcorn chicken from $6 to $8. My wallet certainly took a beating that month. And yes, as everyone has noted, they never have enough people working, and sometimes it can take over an hour to get your food. But the truth is: I really don't mind waiting. The atmosphere is laid-back and comforting, the tunes are awesome (check out what's playing here: http://www.last.fm/use...) and the waitstaff are super-friendly and accommodating -- even when you show up with 20 people and just order pitchers. The aforementioned popcorn chicken are to die for; the veggie burger might be the best in city (Yes, it really is THAT GOOD); the loaded nachos are banging. Bring you friends -- there's plenty of room for all!
