James Dickinson photo
Seemingly right at home among the interesting new mix of establishments along the 17th Street Farmers' Market is The Halligan Bar & Grill — a small, friendly spot that's roughly equal parts watering hole, pub-grub destination and firefighter's tribute, with owner and former firefighter Shawn Gregory neatly decking the place out with memorabilia galore.
Fans of slow-smoked, sauce-slathered meats will be drawn here by its barbecue. In fact, the barbecued chicken wings — moist, delightfully crispy and well-balanced in terms of sweetness and tanginess — rate among the best I've sampled in some time. Equally pleasing is the pulled pork's mixture of rendered-into-submission, pink-ish inside meat and blackened outside morsels. Unfortunately, the coleslaw, while appropriately crisp and fresh, was too lightly dressed, leaving it dry and unexciting.
Those seeking something other than 'cue might opt for nachos, a burger, an entrée salad or, perhaps, a hunger-taming wrap chock-full of chicken breast, bacon, lettuce, tomato, cucumber and cheddar cheese and served with a mess of seasoned fries. Customize the selection by choosing between ranch and spicy dressing.
Fans of quirky watering holes will enjoy having a pint or two at The Halligan Bar & Grill. And for barbecue lovers, sticking around for a bite will hit the spot as well.
3 N. 17th St., 447-7981
Prices
Appetizers $4.95 to $12.95. Barbecue, sandwiches and entrées $7.95 to $10.95. Dessert $4.95.
Hours
Monday to Wednesday, 4 p.m. to midnight; Thursday and Sunday, 11 a.m. to midnight; Friday and Saturday, 11 a.m. to 2 a.m.
