McGrady’s Open

[Papa_lecki]

I saw on their facebook page McGrady’s is open.

Write a review when someone tries it.

[Bogie Shooter]

For me, I am just going to go.
I don't need some whiny review complaining about the density of the french fries.

[asianthree]

didn’t get picked for a mug, so will wait for the newness to wear off, everyday glitches to get fixed. So will get on my list sometime in October

[NoMo50]

My name wasn't pulled in the mug draw either. But, my view is that not being chosen just saved me a lot of money. Based on their menu, which was posted online, their prices look pretty steep, even by Villages standards. Probably will not go onto our rotation.

[dewilson58]

Name was not drawn, name not entered.

:ho:

[charlieo1126@gmail.com]

My name wasn't pulled in the mug draw either. But, my view is that not being chosen just saved me a lot of money. Based on their menu, which was posted online, their prices look pretty steep, even by Villages standards. Probably will not go onto our rotation.I don’t know what your standards are , but I eat out all the time, I looked at there menu and found the prices very reasonable by any standards ,nothing seemed to be over $10, perhaps you can win a mug at McDonalds

[retiredguy123]

I don’t know what your standards are , but I eat out all the time, I looked at there menu and found the prices very reasonable by any standards ,nothing seemed to be over $10, perhaps you can win a mug at McDonalds
Huh? Did you look at the McGrady's online menu? Every salad, entree, and sandwich is over 10 dollars.

[rrtjp]

didn’t get picked for a mug, so will wait for the newness to wear off, everyday glitches to get fixed. So will get on my list sometime in October

Same here, no mug for me either, lol. Will be waiting a little while before trying them out.

[charlieo1126@gmail.com]

Huh? Did you look at the McGrady's online menu? Every salad, entree, and sandwich is over 10 dollars.you may be looking at the mcgarry menus which is more money the mcgrady menus is alll under 10

[retiredguy123]

you may be looking at the mcgarry menus which is more money the mcgrady menus is alll under 10
Here is a link to the McGrady's menu that I looked at.

Menus - McGrady's Pub & Kitchen : McGrady's Pub & Kitchen (https://mcgradys.com/menu/)

[retiredguy123]

Note that they are only open Wednesday through Sunday from 3 to 9 pm. Very unusual hours for The Villages.

[golfing eagles]

Here is a link to the McGrady's menu that I looked at.

Menus - McGrady's Pub & Kitchen : McGrady's Pub & Kitchen (https://mcgradys.com/menu/)

Looks like round 1 goes to retiredguy :1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl:

[charlieo1126@gmail.com]

That’s a whole different concept look down at mcgradys pub villages menu they have restaurants and pubs ours is a pub

[golfing eagles]

That’s a whole different concept look down at mcgradys pub villages menu they have restaurants and pubs ours is a pub

Aha---we have a round 1 outcome challenge:1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl:

[Lottoguy]

$7.00 for a Yuengling pint? No thanks....

[Bill14564]

That’s a whole different concept look down at mcgradys pub villages menu they have restaurants and pubs ours is a pub

???

Look at the link provided. Then look at the Contact information - there is exactly one location and it is in the Villages.

If you have a link to a different menu showing different information then it would help a lot if you would post it.

[retiredguy123]

That’s a whole different concept look down at mcgradys pub villages menu they have restaurants and pubs ours is a pub
You lost me. The menu I read is from the new McGrady's Pub website that just opened in the south part of The Villages. Can you provide a link to another menu?

[golfing eagles]

You lost me. The menu I read is from the new McGrady's Pub website that just opened in the south part of The Villages. Can you provide a link to another menu?

And a rebuttal to the challenge :1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl:

[Stu from NYC]

Going to go there with my specialmug and bribe bartender to let me leave it there.:bigbow:

[charlieo1126@gmail.com]

I know that but there’s an expensive menu on there for pubs and restaurants

[golfing eagles]

Going to go there with my specialmug and bribe bartender to let me leave it there.:bigbow:

///

[golfing eagles]

I know that but there’s an expensive menu on there for pubs and restaurants

And the counter-rebuttal:1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl:

[charlieo1126@gmail.com]

Ha ha goggle is either not my friend today or not someone else’s friend today so I’ll just digress and head for gym lol

[retiredguy123]

And the counter-rebuttal:1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl:
Thanks for keeping score.

[Bilyclub]

At least I admit when I'm wrong. Set, game, match goes to the guy with the menu link.

[Rainger99]

$7.00 for a Yuengling pint? No thanks....

There is a happy hour where certain drinks are half price!

HAPPY HOUR | 3-5 PM • 7 DAYS A WEEK
Half Price on all Domestic Draft Beer & House Wine

Since it is only open 5 days a week, I am not sure how that works.

[Stu from NYC]

And the good news is they have mushy peas on the menu. Got used to them at English pubs somehow goes well with fish and chips.

[asianthree]

Note that they are only open Wednesday through Sunday from 3 to 9 pm. Very unusual hours for The Villages.

Not hard to figure out

5 day work week, staff one hour prior to open and one hour after close, equals 40 hour work week. So any more open time would require more staff, which they don’t have

[charlieo1126@gmail.com]

No matter how many different ways I put it in it still comes out under$ 10 things I don’t know how to post things and I’m getting a headache , so I’ll just say whatever and pretend it was a fake menu I was looking at

[ton80]

No matter how many different ways I put it in it still comes out under$ 10 things I don’t know how to post things and I’m getting a headache , so I’ll just say whatever and pretend it was a fake menu I was looking at

Not a fake menu but a sneaky title name variation. The cheaper McGrady's Pub is Named McGrady's IRISH pub. The McGrady's in the villages is a SCOTISH Pub

Link to IRISH McGrady's Irish Pub Menu and Prices - Menu With Price (https://www.menuwithprice.com/menu/mcgradys-irish-pub/)

These are the under 10$ items.

What's the score now?

[retiredguy123]

Not hard to figure out

5 day work week, staff one hour prior to open and one hour after close, equals 40 hour work week. So any more open time would require more staff, which they don’t have
I got it. But, if you want to attract the serious drinkers, they start earlier than 3 PM, and they drink more than 5 days per week. At least that is what I have been told. And, you are totally ruling out the lunch crowd.

[alwann]

Well, I suppose golfers willing to pay an up-charge to play Southern Oaks (please explain why there is one) won't blink at paying a higher price for a Yuengling.

[Stu from NYC]

Well, I suppose golfers willing to pay an up-charge to play Southern Oaks (please explain why there is one) won't blink at paying a higher price for a Yuengling.

So if I drive into their parking lot that says cold beer 2 for 1 specials out of my trunk how long before the police show up? Asking for a friend.

[Dotneko]

Funny - a cup of Twinings Tea is $3.99
You can buy 100 bags of English Breakfast Twinings tea for $18.00.
Thats 18 cents a bag. Talk about markup lol.

[alwann]

So if I drive into their parking lot that says cold beer 2 for 1 specials out of my trunk how long before the police show up? Asking for a friend.

If you give me a beer, no problem. If you sell me a beer, crime. So, I'll just hand you the money when nobody is looking. It would sure send a signal if somebody would actually do this. Of course, them what runs this place, might have to kill you.

[Rainger99]

Funny - a cup of Twinings Tea is $3.99
You can buy 100 bags of English Breakfast Twinings tea for $18.00.
Thats 18 cents a bag. Talk about markup lol.

Where do you buy your tea?? On Amazon, 100 bags of Twinings English Breakfast Tea is only $9.26.

[asianthree]

I got it. But, if you want to attract the serious drinkers, they start earlier than 3 PM, and they drink more than 5 days per week. At least that is what I have been told. And, you are totally ruling out the lunch crowd.

3 job fairs, 26 jobs online with hire bonus. Unless someone an pull 26 people out of their back room, this is the best the restaurant can do.
Yes they are missing the lunch crowd, and the bar hoppers, but with no staff for those hours, guessing they are glad they can open with limited hours. Beats the crap out of not open at all.

They could of course make the current staff work 60 hour week, to fill in the hours you think they should be open. Then see how many employees continue to work. Once the first month is under their belt if they can adjust their hours, they will

[Badger 2006]

Note that they are only open Wednesday through Sunday from 3 to 9 pm. Very unusual hours for The Villages.

That’s what the “Back Porch” (where Cody’s/Mulberry used to be) did on their soft opening for a month, then opened for lunch (soft opening) for a couple weeks. Did this to get their limited menu out and employees acclimated. Now open with full lunch and dinner menu from 11:30 - 8:00 Tuesday-Sunday.

[Djean1981]

Funny - a cup of Twinings Tea is $3.99
You can buy 100 bags of English Breakfast Twinings tea for $18.00.
Thats 18 cents a bag. Talk about markup lol.
$3.99 for an $.18 teabag. It's Putin's fault. Lol.

[Djean1981]

3 job fairs, 26 jobs online with hire bonus. Unless someone an pull 26 people out of their back room, this is the best the restaurant can do.
Yes they are missing the lunch crowd, and the bar hoppers, but with no staff for those hours, guessing they are glad they can open with limited hours. Beats the crap out of not open at all.

They could of course make the current staff work 60 hour week, to fill in the hours you think they should be open. Then see how many employees continue to work. Once the first month is under their belt if they can adjust their hours, they will
No, they can't make the staff work 60 hours per week. They have a life - family, school, etc. so they would quit.

[Stu from NYC]

$3.99 for an $.18 teabag. It's Putin's fault. Lol.

Soft drinks and tea have a huge markup. Always wondered how they get away with it.

Would have thought more people would say never mind, water please to go with their meals.

[Bogie Shooter]

Tsk, tsk, tsk if the prices are too high, just don’t go. I doubt you will be missed.
BTW, two new McDonald’s opened today for you consideration.

[Stu from NYC]

Tsk, tsk, tsk if the prices are too high, just don’t go. I doubt you will be missed.
BTW, two new McDonald’s opened today for you consideration.

If your talking to me why not just quote me. For your information we go to restaurants 2-3 nights a week for dinner but have not been to a McDonalds in years.

We like value when we go out to eat. Purchasing an entre is value, spending a few bucks for a drink that costs the restaurant pennies is not it.

You might be able to understand that if you get past your sarcasm.

[DylanTodd]

I saw on their facebook page McGrady’s is open.

Write a review when someone tries it.

For a place that touted itself as a Scotch Whiskey bar, would it have killed them put something on the menu older than 12 years? My personal collection is better than their drink list.

[Woodbear]

Extremely limited gluten free options. Wife won't be going unless she wants a natural prep for colonoscopy

[MrChip72]

$15-20+ for a sandwich and no side included? I'm not sure this will be something people will want to go to regularly. It's a pub, not a high end restaurant.

[asianthree]

No, they can't make the staff work 60 hours per week. They have a life - family, school, etc. so they would quit.

Sarcasm Sheldon

[rjn5656]

Will wait a few weeks, but will give them a try. They deserve a chance.

[Keefelane66]

I got it. But, if you want to attract the serious drinkers, they start earlier than 3 PM, and they drink more than 5 days per week. At least that is what I have been told. And, you are totally ruling out the lunch crowd.
I'm glad I never took up the habit of “Serious Drinker’ Fat, Drunk, And Stupid Is No Way To Go Through Life’”

[Dotneko]

We live a 7 minute walk from there. Not drinkers at all. Not really anything that appeals on the menu. Maybe fish and chips.
But smoked salmon soup im sure will be a big seller lol.
Waiting for other places in Sawgrass to open!

[Djean1981]

Lol

[billethkid]

Note that they are only open Wednesday through Sunday from 3 to 9 pm. Very unusual hours for The Villages.

These days/hours are during their soft opening only.
In a couple of weeks they will go to regular daily schedule.

[Skip]

Waiting for other places in Sawgrass to open!

They are all "Fast Food": Order at the counter and wait on yourself.

Skip

[rsimpson]

$7.00 for a Yuengling pint? No thanks....

See you there from 3-5PM. Happy Hour price is fair. $7 is steep.

[Dotneko]

They are all "Fast Food": Order at the counter and wait on yourself.

Skip

Dont care. We need someplace closer than Piesanos (which is awful) or Roberto's (better) for a pizza. Ive resorted to frozen California Pizza Kitchen ones.

[davefin]

Just read thru this entire post and YES, I do believe their menu is a bit pricey!

[Dotneko]

A friend posted on facebook. A $7.00 order of onion rings had 7 rings. A $7.00 order of fries had 10.

[Stu from NYC]

A friend posted on facebook. A $7.00 order of onion rings had 7 rings. A $7.00 order of fries had 10.

Yikes

[jimdecastro]

Rumor is 1/4 of the mugs went to “friends”. Only 225 went to the public…

[Miekies]

I don’t know what your standards are , but I eat out all the time, I looked at there menu and found the prices very reasonable by any standards ,nothing seemed to be over $10, perhaps you can win a mug at McDonalds

I think you were looking at a different menu. Their burger is $18.99. They are pricey but doesn't mean it's a bad thing if it's good. I think the name pub is misleading and they should be called a restaurant. They do have a good happy hour from. 3-5 on beer

[Cynthia Robinson]

Too rich for my blood!
Prices are outrageous!

[Dr Winston O Boogie jr]

No, they can't make the staff work 60 hours per week. They have a life - family, school, etc. so they would quit.
Do you think that workers in restaurants that are open 16 hours a day seven days a week are working 112 hours a week? It's called shifts.

Some people work Sunday through Thursday, others Monday through Friday and so on.

The problem these days, which I don't understand, is finding enough people to work. There are currently 312,000 people on unemployment benefits in the state of Florida. I guess none of them want to work.

I keep hearing that people are leaving their jobs voluntarily. I keep wondering how they survive.

[dewilson58]

Rumor is 1/4 of the mugs went to “friends”. Only 225 went to the public…

Always love rumors.

:ohdear:

[Chi-Town]

One would think that a full service restaurant in the south would have a more positive response. And "pricey" is becoming the norm everywhere. Anyhow, fish & chips with a glass of Kendall Jackson chardonnay will be my meal soon.

[pacjag]

Their prices are ridiculous. $18 for fish and chips. $19 for a cheeseburger.

Brick and Barrel in Leesburg has fish and chips for $14 and a cheeseburger for $11.

Supply and demand is one thing. Being taken advantage of is quite different.

McGrady’s earns a big old nope from me.

[golfing eagles]

Their prices are ridiculous. $18 for fish and chips. $19 for a cheeseburger.

Brick and Barrel in Leesburg has fish and chips for $14 and a cheeseburger for $11.

Supply and demand is one thing. Being taken advantage of is quite different.

McGrady’s earns a big old nope from me.

Brick and Barrel in Leesburg -----$14
McGrady's---------------------------------- $18

About a gallon of gas round trip----$4.74

So which is cheaper??????:1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl:

[Kenswing]

I’m sure a stand-alone building like that cost a few million dollars to put together. They’re not going to recoup their investment by selling $1.00 tea and sodas. They’ll need to sell a LOT of alcohol.

[bimmertl]

Brick and Barrel in Leesburg -----$14
McGrady's---------------------------------- $18

About a gallon of gas round trip----$4.74

So which is cheaper??????:1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl:

Cheeseburger in Leesburg!

[Bill14564]

Rumor is 1/4 of the mugs went to “friends”. Only 225 went to the public…

Brick and Barrel in Leesburg -----$14
McGrady's---------------------------------- $18

About a gallon of gas round trip----$4.74

So which is cheaper??????:1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl:

Nine miles to B&B, seven miles to McG's, four mile difference round trip, about $1 difference in gas. Order more than just a burger, like maybe a beer and a salad or appetizer, and the savings will be much more than $1.

On the other hand, I'll have to give McG's a try once the newness wears off. Some of the food looks interesting and hopefully they add a British/Irish/Scottish draft beyond just Guinness. I would gladly pay more than $1 extra for the variety.

[dewilson58]

Supply and demand is one thing. Being taken advantage of is quite different.
.

If the Demand agrees with you, the price will change.

[Tom M]

See you there from 3-5PM. Happy Hour price is fair. $7 is steep.

Isn't the happy hour half price for Domestic beers (and wine) only?

[dewilson58]

A friend posted on facebook. A $7.00 order of onion rings had 7 rings. A $7.00 order of fries had 10.

Facebook is almost as reliable as ToTV.
:1rotfl::1rotfl:

[New Englander]

They’ll need to sell a LOT of alcohol.

I doubt they will sell much alcohol. Most of us Villagers are teetotalers!

[Tom M]

Brick and Barrel in Leesburg -----$14
McGrady's---------------------------------- $18

About a gallon of gas round trip----$4.74

So which is cheaper??????:1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl:

I guess that depends if you live North or South of 44. For anyone north of 44, Brick and Barrell is 2 miles further than McGrady's. McGrady's is convenient for those living nearby though and for many the price will be worth it.

[Bill14564]

Isn't the happy hour half price for Domestic beers (and wine) only?

Yes, but depends on the definition of domestic. Guinness is the only draft on the menu that is not brewed in the US. Ultra and Yuengling are certainly domestic. The rest of the draft list is imported from places like Gainesville, Tampa, Atlanta, and Boston.

[asianthree]

Rumor is 1/4 of the mugs went to “friends”. Only 225 went to the public…

Let’s add to the rumors… 75 went to friends of family, and contractors
150 went to those who live within 15 minutes of Pub
75 random applications picked out of a box of 4000
Total 300

Anyone want to add a better guess:clap2:

[retiredguy123]

Brick and Barrel in Leesburg -----$14
McGrady's---------------------------------- $18

About a gallon of gas round trip----$4.74

So which is cheaper??????:1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl:
Good point, but when you add the tax and tip to the 4 dollar basic cost difference, Brick and Barrel is cheaper.

[Polarlys]

Water is pricy in Florida !!!!!



Funny - a cup of Twinings Tea is $3.99
You can buy 100 bags of English Breakfast Twinings tea for $18.00.
Thats 18 cents a bag. Talk about markup lol.

[Polarlys]

Water is expensive in Florida !!!!! :)



Funny - a cup of Twinings Tea is $3.99
You can buy 100 bags of English Breakfast Twinings tea for $18.00.
Thats 18 cents a bag. Talk about markup lol.

[golfing eagles]

Good point, but when you add the tax and tip to the 4 dollar basic cost difference, Brick and Barrel is cheaper.

Yes, by 34 cents if you give 20% tip. But it is also 32 minutes round trip of your time. Isn't your time worth more than 60 cents/ hour????

[retiredguy123]

Yes, by 34 cents if you give 20% tip. But it is also 32 minutes round trip of your time. Isn't your time worth more than 60 cents/ hour????
I agree with that, even though I am retired.

[davem4616]

The OP asked for thoughts from those that had been to this new eatery...

What seems odd is that this thread is now on page 6 and not one is even mentioning how the food was...

was it prepared well?
did it come out hot?
was it tasty?
was the kitchen in the weeds, or did your order come out quickly?
did the dish look appealing?
what size were the servings?
how was the service?
how long did you have to wait if you didn't have reservations (if they take them)?

these comments certainly tell the story of why the food served in many of the eateries in TV is substandard compared to eateries outside TV

they have to cater to a bunch of cheap old people that seem to have lost their taste buds...it doesn't seem to be about dining out and enjoying a delicious meal, it's about not having to cook and getting by with doing that as cheaply as possible...

So, to those that are looking for a cheap mug...you should go take a look in the mirror...LOL

[Stu from NYC]

The OP asked for thoughts from those that had been to this new eatery...

What seems odd is that this thread is now on page 6 and not one is even mentioning how the food was...

was it prepared well?
did it come out hot?
was it tasty?
was the kitchen in the weeds, or did your order come out quickly?
did the dish look appealing?
what size were the servings?
how was the service?
how long did you have to wait if you didn't have reservations (if they take them)?

these comments certainly tell the story of why the food served in many of the eateries in TV is substandard compared to eateries outside TV

they have to cater to a bunch of cheap old people that seem to have lost their taste buds...it doesn't seem to be about dining out and enjoying a delicious meal, it's about not having to cook and getting by with doing that as cheaply as possible...

So, to those that are looking for a cheap mug...you should go take a look in the mirror...LOL

Someone did mention that the portions of fries and onion rings were skimpy compared to their price

[retiredguy123]

I stopped in this afternoon for happy hour. All 13 bar seats were occupied, so I left. There was a bar outside, but I don't sit outside. The restaurant area was busy. I like the dark wood walls and booths. The inside bar seems too small and there is only one television. I hope it does well.

[Dotneko]

Facebook is almost as reliable as ToTV.
:1rotfl::1rotfl:

Well, she posted pictures of the servings, which i have no idea how to share here.
You are welcome to do your own research. Or see the photos yourself on the St Cats facebook page <shrug>

[dewilson58]

Well, she posted pictures of the servings, which i have no idea how to share here. You are welcome to do your own research. Or see the photos yourself on the St Cats facebook page <shrug>

This is what I got........few more than 10.

[Stu from NYC]

This is what I got........few more than 10.

Not opening

[Djean1981]

Rumor is 1/4 of the mugs went to “friends”. Only 225 went to the public…
Why spread "rumors.". ??

[MrChip72]

A friend posted on facebook. A $7.00 order of onion rings had 7 rings. A $7.00 order of fries had 10.

I can't defend what they're charging for the fries, but what should an order of 7 onion rings cost?

The food service companies like Sysco are charging around $12 for 2.5 lbs of large frozen beer battered onion rings where they would likely get 20 rings per bag, let's say enough for 3 servings, then the restaurant has to cook it in their own oil, plate it, and serve it with a "homemade" aoli and some other garnish. Stuff is pretty expensive now. I think it's hard for any restaurant to make much profit on any menu item that sells for only $7.

[Dotneko]

I can't defend what they're charging for the fries, but what should an order of 7 onion rings cost?

The food service companies like Sysco are charging around $12 for 2.5 lbs of large frozen beer battered onion rings where they would likely get 20 rings per bag, let's say enough for 3 servings, then the restaurant has to cook it in their own oil, plate it, and serve it with a "homemade" aoli and some other garnish. Stuff is pretty expensive now. I think it's hard for any restaurant to make much profit on any menu item that sells for only $7.

I agree if they buy it. But they could make them for much less than that. Their choice to have pre made frozen crap. Are they fast food or a restaurant?

[Dotneko]

This is what I got........few more than 10.

Cant open it, but I will afford you the benefit of the doubt - which you didnt afford me.
A couple of reasons yours may be more full:

1 - they read this and decided that perhaps they were shortchanging people
2 - they were running out on the day she went and they were rationing
3 - they have no portion control and its up to the whim of the sous
4 - they like you better

[dewilson58]

4 - they like you better

Happens all the time.

:clap2::clap2:

[Stu from NYC]

I can't defend what they're charging for the fries, but what should an order of 7 onion rings cost?

The food service companies like Sysco are charging around $12 for 2.5 lbs of large frozen beer battered onion rings where they would likely get 20 rings per bag, let's say enough for 3 servings, then the restaurant has to cook it in their own oil, plate it, and serve it with a "homemade" aoli and some other garnish. Stuff is pretty expensive now. I think it's hard for any restaurant to make much profit on any menu item that sells for only $7.

Next time we go to Sams or BJ will look but do believe onion rings are much cheaper than that.

[MrChip72]

Next time we go to Sams or BJ will look but do believe onion rings are much cheaper than that.

This is not a typical apples to apples comparison.

The ones at BJ's are meant to be cooked at home in an oven at 400 degrees.

The food service ones are meant to be cooked in a commercial fryer, sold to paying customers, and designed to retain their crispiness for a period of time which is critical when food is not sent out promptly, or even worse the onion rings are a takeout or delivery item. The commercial formulations use additives like Evercrisp for those particular applications, and it absolutely adds to the cost.

[MrChip72]

I agree if they buy it. But they could make them for much less than that. Their choice to have pre made frozen crap.

Sure a restaurant can make them for cheaper from scratch if you don't consider labor costs. Also, with the current labor situation, you're unlikely to find suitable kitchen staff that could consistently make presentable onion rings from scratch without disappointing customers. The stuff from the food service companies isn't that bad, and makes it much easier for restaurants to provide a consistent experience with minimally trained kitchen staff.

Are they fast food or a restaurant?

Even the country clubs in TV use food service stuff to quite an extent. Do you think those fries that come with your $10 burger are hand cut from scratch and cooked made to order?

It's a necessary evil. People want to get meals served to them without paying much, restaurants want to serve people food without spending much.

[Dotneko]

Sure a restaurant can make them for cheaper from scratch if you don't consider labor costs. Also, with the current labor situation, you're unlikely to find suitable kitchen staff that could consistently make presentable onion rings from scratch without disappointing customers. The stuff from the food service companies isn't that bad, and makes it much easier for restaurants to provide a consistent experience with minimally trained kitchen staff.



Even the country clubs in TV use food service stuff to quite an extent. Do you think those fries that come with your $10 burger are hand cut from scratch and cooked made to order?

It's a necessary evil. People want to get meals served to them without paying much, restaurants want to serve people food without spending much.

Of course any restaurant has to determine its line of cost/labor/quality/value. For me, with McGradys, I tell them to look behind them.

[Altavia]

I doubt the target market for this restaurant are the grumpy old prunes complaing here about a price gap no more than the cost of a lost golf ball :-)

[Stu from NYC]

This is not a typical apples to apples comparison.

The ones at BJ's are meant to be cooked at home in an oven at 400 degrees.

The food service ones are meant to be cooked in a commercial fryer, sold to paying customers, and designed to retain their crispiness for a period of time which is critical when food is not sent out promptly, or even worse the onion rings are a takeout or delivery item. The commercial formulations use additives like Evercrisp for those particular applications, and it absolutely adds to the cost.

Thank you for sharing your expertise.

Thought that these large size packages we have been buying at clubs were also being sold at restaurants. For example once in awhile we purchase mozzarella sticks and heat them in our air fryer.

Far as I can tell same sticks we have purchased at restaurants but can get them to the table a lot faster.

[Skip]

Went there over the weekend. Packed! And the noise level was so high, we left before being called. Not impressed with what I saw or what I heard from people leaving.

Skip

[Papa_lecki]

Went there over the weekend. Packed! And the noise level was so high, we left before being called. Not impressed with what I saw or what I heard from people leaving.

Skip

Another place that’s sucks, and no one will go to because it’s too crowded. That describes all the restaurants in the Villages

[SusanStCatherine]

Nine miles to B&B, seven miles to McG's, four mile difference round trip, about $1 difference in gas. Order more than just a burger, like maybe a beer and a salad or appetizer, and the savings will be much more than $1.

On the other hand, I'll have to give McG's a try once the newness wears off. Some of the food looks interesting and hopefully they add a British/Irish/Scottish draft beyond just Guinness. I would gladly pay more than $1 extra for the variety.

When I was there they had Tennents draft beer which is Scottish. That is excluded from happy hour. But where else can you get a Tennents draft? It was delicious.

[SusanStCatherine]

I've been there twice. The first time we ordered four entrees and shared. My favorite was the Scottish Steak & Onion Baguette. The Guinness Battered Fish & Chips were also good. The Penne Pasta was okay but the chicken on it was very good. The Indian Chicken Curry was tasty but not very spicy. The chips (really steak fries) were good and tasty and hot. The Sticky Toffee Pudding was good and I liked that better than the brownie.

The next visit I had the Bacon & Brie Baguette and mushy peas. It was tasty. I needed to salt and pepper my peas, but I'm not overly fond of peas, I just wanted to try them. My husband had the burger and he said it was good.

I really like the atmosphere - it is nicely decorated and comfortable seating.

The servers are very friendly and helpful. They are taking input from customers so changes can be made.

It hasn't been open very long. I'm sure they are still working on getting going. Yes the portions are on the smaller side and the prices seem a little high for that reason. But then I think how difficult it must be to staff and open a newly built restaurant. I know they've been paying staff since January.

I'm very thankful that there is finally a very nice restaurant within walking distance from my house. I hope it has great success.

I heard the bar is full most of the time LOL. The restaurant is open from 3-9 Wednesday - Sunday and I heard it starts slowing down at 6.

The website shows musicians starting June 15th.

[MrChip72]

Thank you for sharing your expertise.

Thought that these large size packages we have been buying at clubs were also being sold at restaurants. For example once in awhile we purchase mozzarella sticks and heat them in our air fryer.

Far as I can tell same sticks we have purchased at restaurants but can get them to the table a lot faster.

You're on to something there. For things like mozza sticks, the average ones sold at places like WOB in TV are pretty much about the same quality as you'll find at Sam's club ones made in an air fryer. They are one item with a decent margin for the restaurant, and no sane customer is expecting that they were made from "scratch".

Fries are a high margin item too obviously, but some food service places sell about 5 different quality grades of them ranging from ones sold in bowling alleys to ones sold in mid range steakhouses.

Onion rings, you can get Walmart "Great Value" brand ones for peanuts, but you probably wouldn't be serving them to anyone older than 12 years old, let alone thinking of serving them in a restaurant.

[Aloha1]

Yes, but depends on the definition of domestic. Guinness is the only draft on the menu that is not brewed in the US. Ultra and Yuengling are certainly domestic. The rest of the draft list is imported from places like Gainesville, Tampa, Atlanta, and Boston.

But the Guinness in the US IS brewed in Boston. It definitely has a different taste than the real thing in Ireland.

[Aloha1]

For myself , the food prices did not look too bad BUT the single malt scotch prices are insane. A 750ml bottle of Talisker 10 can be bought retail at Total Wine for $84 plus tax. The average pour would be 50ml or about 15 pours per bottle. McGradys charges $23 per pour or $345 per bottle. Talk about markup. Pretty much the same with any of the decent malts on their list. And keep in mind that McGrady's pays wholesale not retail for that bottle.

[Bill14564]

But the Guinness in the US IS brewed in Boston. It definitely has a different taste than the real thing in Ireland.

That doesn't sound right. Do you have a source for that?

I know Guinness has a brewery in Baltimore but according to them (when I visited and asked) they do not brew the "regular" Guinness, they import it.

[Dr Winston O Boogie jr]

I can't defend what they're charging for the fries, but what should an order of 7 onion rings cost?

The food service companies like Sysco are charging around $12 for 2.5 lbs of large frozen beer battered onion rings where they would likely get 20 rings per bag, let's say enough for 3 servings, then the restaurant has to cook it in their own oil, plate it, and serve it with a "homemade" aoli and some other garnish. Stuff is pretty expensive now. I think it's hard for any restaurant to make much profit on any menu item that sells for only $7.

20 onion rings weigh 2.5 pounds? I'll bet it's closer to a half pound.

[SusanStCatherine]

A friend posted on facebook. A $7.00 order of onion rings had 7 rings. A $7.00 order of fries had 10.

I was there yesterday and got 8 onion rings. They were delicious. Nice size. I will order them again.

[SusanStCatherine]

These days/hours are during their soft opening only.
In a couple of weeks they will go to regular daily schedule.

There is construction going on close by which ends at 3pm. When that is over they may open earlier.

[Stu from NYC]

I was there yesterday and got 8 onion rings. They were delicious. Nice size. I will order them again.

Please let me know when you get 9.:bigbow:

[Lottoguy]

Southern Oaks charges that price because their the only 18 hole course south of 44. Same for McGrady's.

[mgkw1]

I thought Brandon blamed Covid for the tea and Putin for the gas

[butlerperkins@gmail.com]

But the Guinness in the US IS brewed in Boston. It definitely has a different taste than the real thing in Ireland.

Manager: Michelle Rigby (443) 575-6882

Guinness
5001 Washington Boulevard
Halethorpe, MD 21227
(443) 575-6893

Hours of operation:
Thu 3:00-10 pm
Fri 12:00-10 pm
Sun 11:00-9 pm

Dinner Saturday 11-10 pm

[Bogie Shooter]

I thought Brandon blamed Covid for the tea and Putin for the gas

Cute cliche, took a lot of thought, right?

[SusanStCatherine]

But the Guinness in the US IS brewed in Boston. It definitely has a different taste than the real thing in Ireland.

There is only currently one Guinness brewery in the USA and it is near Baltimore. The next one is opening in Chicago. They don't brew the famous Irish stout there which is what is served at McGrady's, thus it is an import. I had it there yesterday and it was awesome - you could tell it was freshly tapped on a clean tap line. They had run out of Scottish imported Tennents which they say won't always be available there since it's hard to get. Someone in line wanted the Tennents and I suggested the Guinness since they were out. They said no - that Guiness is too strong. The ABV on Guinness is only 4.2% which is below average and IBU 40 which is less bitter than most IPAs. Cheers!

[Stu from NYC]

I thought Brandon blamed Covid for the tea and Putin for the gas

Who will he blamed for the cost of the rings?:bigbow:

[twoplanekid]

While I didn’t eat there last night, McGardy’s seemed very crowed and the parking lots looked full. Even the lots at the near bye Ezell Rec Center were crowded. With that in mind, I hope parking isn’t going to be an issue when all of the other venues open in the future. The three town squares all seem to have sufficient parking but this Sawgrass Grove entertainment and dinning complex looks to me like it might be lacking in parking spaces. Has anyone else notice this? I guess the future will determine if my observation is correct.

[Bill14564]

Went there this afternoon and will be going back!

At 4:30 was told a 10 minute wait for a table. We didn't want to eat that early so we went to the bar. Had to wait a few minutes for seats to open up but soon had two.

Boston beers were happy hour price, Tennants was not. Tennants appears to be the Craft Beer of the Month so I'm glad I got there in time to have some. I hope they continue to have something comparable to Tennants going forward. Very good selection of other beers as well.

We were very happy with the food, service, and portion sizes. Had the chowder, fish and chips, halloumi, and sticky toffee pudding. Would order any of them again but want to try the salmon or steak & onion baguette too.

it was a little bit pricey, we probably would have spent $20 less somewhere outside the bubble. However, the atmosphere outside the bubble would not be the same and it would be hard to match the quality of the food. We definitely felt we got our money's worth.

We will be back. We live north of 44 so we'll probably not be there regularly but we definitely will be there often.

[Dr Winston O Boogie jr]

While I didn’t eat there last night, McGardy’s seemed very crowed and the parking lots looked full. Even the lots at the near bye Ezell Rec Center were crowded. With that in mind, I hope parking isn’t going to be an issue when all of the other venues open in the future. The three town squares all seem to have sufficient parking but this Sawgrass Grove entertainment and dinning complex looks to me like it might be lacking in parking spaces. Has anyone else notice this? I guess the future will determine if my observation is correct.

Parking is going to be a huge problem.

[billethkid]

The restaurant is nicely decorated with pub like ambiance.
The place is quite large....impressively so.

Employees very responsive and helpful.

The area we were in was to the right of the entrance with tables only.....very/VERY noisy!!!!

Do Not waste your money on the $18 burger.

[MrChip72]

20 onion rings weigh 2.5 pounds? I'll bet it's closer to a half pound.

0.4 oz onion rings? Never seen those before. That would be like fruit loop sized. Most pub-style onion rings are closer to 2 oz each (pre-cooked weight).

[photo1902]

Went there this afternoon and will be going back!

At 4:30 was told a 10 minute wait for a table. We didn't want to eat that early so we went to the bar. Had to wait a few minutes for seats to open up but soon had two.

Boston beers were happy hour price, Tennants was not. Tennants appears to be the Craft Beer of the Month so I'm glad I got there in time to have some. I hope they continue to have something comparable to Tennants going forward. Very good selection of other beers as well.

We were very happy with the food, service, and portion sizes. Had the chowder, fish and chips, halloumi, and sticky toffee pudding. Would order any of them again but want to try the salmon or steak & onion baguette too.

it was a little bit pricey, we probably would have spent $20 less somewhere outside the bubble. However, the atmosphere outside the bubble would not be the same and it would be hard to match the quality of the food. We definitely felt we got our money's worth.

We will be back. We live north of 44 so we'll probably not be there regularly but we definitely will be there often.


Your post made me laugh: “ We live north of 44 so we'll probably not be there regularly but we definitely will be there often.”.

[dewilson58]

The restaurant is nicely decorated with pub like ambiance.
The place is quite large....impressively so.

Employees very responsive and helpful.

The area we were in was to the right of the entrance with tables only.....very/VERY noisy!!!!

Do Not waste your money on the $18 burger.

Thanks
Have not been there yet.......waiting a bit.
Will avoid burger.......watching for other avoids.

:shocked:

[asianthree]

The restaurant is nicely decorated with pub like ambiance.
The place is quite large....impressively so.

Employees very responsive and helpful.

The area we were in was to the right of the entrance with tables only.....very/VERY noisy!!!!

Do Not waste your money on the $18 burger.

So was the burger cooked incorrectly, weird texture, too greasy, lack of flavor, or just more money than you want to spend. Don’t waste your money doesn’t give us a clue as to why.

Just picked up 2 sandwiches, 1/2 pound pasta salad, and a brownie from Zingermans Deli in Ann Arbor, bill with tip $53.00. Really good deli, best Ruben in the area.

[dewilson58]

Just picked up 2 sandwiches, 1/2 pound pasta salad, and a brownie from Zingermans Deli in Ann Arbor, bill with tip $53.00. Really good deli, best Ruben in the area.

WOW.................obviously you were not taught to share. :mmmm:

[Stu from NYC]

Just picked up 2 sandwiches, 1/2 pound pasta salad, and a brownie from Zingermans Deli in Ann Arbor, bill with tip $53.00. Really good deli, best Ruben in the area.

Somebody was sure hungry

[asianthree]

WOW.................obviously you were not taught to share. :mmmm:

Working a 24, brownie is breakfast, Ruben for 24 shift. Chicken sandwich for next day, cause will be too tired to fix food. Pasta for community fridge.

When you spend 40 minutes looking for parking, wait another 1/2 hour for food, you order more than one meal at .Zingerman’s, and pray you didn’t get a ticket cause parking is a nightmare

[NewtoFL]

So was the burger cooked incorrectly, weird texture, too greasy, lack of flavor, or just more money than you want to spend. Don’t waste your money doesn’t give us a clue as to why.

Just picked up 2 sandwiches, 1/2 pound pasta salad, and a brownie from Zingermans Deli in Ann Arbor, bill with tip $53.00. Really good deli, best Ruben in the area.

Love Zingermans. Pricy but worth it. Felt the same way about Mc Grady’s. Except for the scotch prices. They are insane.

[NewtoFL]

So was the burger cooked incorrectly, weird texture, too greasy, lack of flavor, or just more money than you want to spend. Don’t waste your money doesn’t give us a clue as to why.

Just picked up 2 sandwiches, 1/2 pound pasta salad, and a brownie from Zingermans Deli in Ann Arbor, bill with tip $53.00. Really good deli, best Ruben in the area.

Working a 24, brownie is breakfast, Ruben for 24 shift. Chicken sandwich for next day, cause will be too tired to fix food. Pasta for community fridge.

When you spend 40 minutes looking for parking, wait another 1/2 hour for food, you order more than one meal at .Zingerman’s, and pray you didn’t get a ticket cause parking is a nightmare

Years ago our first time there we were offered many samples. “Sure, I’ll take a half pound of that 10 year aged cheddar, oh that’s good too. I’ll take a half pound of that too. It went on and on. Went to pay and it was something like $260. I about died. Rookie mistake. I sure love their pimento cheese though!

[asianthree]

Years ago our first time there we were offered many samples. “Sure, I’ll take a half pound of that 10 year aged cheddar, oh that’s good too. I’ll take a half pound of that too. It went on and on. Went to pay and it was something like $260. I about died. Rookie mistake. I sure love their pimento cheese though!

Today that $260 will be closer to $340. Last year my order would have been about $38.
The Pimento cheese is one of the Surgeons fav. I forgot he was working, so no pimento, pouting is in order. I may forfeit my brownie to make amends. :clap2:

[REDCART]

Today was our first time visit to McGrady’s. We both enjoyed lunch. Our sandwiches were nicely made and hot. Service was excellent. We wish them every success. Brought sweaters because we’d heard it was chilly inside but we didn’t need them.

[coralway]

The way the folks here are whining about $$, this is gonna eventually be another Katie Belles

[Skip]

Draft domestic beer here is 75% higher than most other Villages restaurants and 100% higher than places outside. :22yikes:

Skip

[ChicagoNative]

I can’t imagine how tough it must be to open a restaurant in this economic climate. We all see what’s happening at the grocery store, we all see restaurants that can’t find workers (hence the reduced operating hours), and we all see gas prices.

I get it. But, even with all that, there’s no way I’m paying $14 for an open faced piece of avocado toast, or $20 for a chicken Caesar salad. Add a drink or two to your lunch and you’re looking at $70+ For two, not including a tip. Hard pass.

It should be interesting to see how this and every other restaurant in the country survives, especially if a predicted food shortage occurs.

[Keefelane66]

I doubt the target market for this restaurant are the grumpy old prunes complaing here about a price gap no more than the cost of a lost golf ball :-)
Golf Balls are overpriced too.

[Skip]

Golf Balls are overpriced too.

You eat Golf Balls?

Skip

[Ecuadog]

Golf Balls are overpriced too.

I've never had golf balls. I had tennis elbow once.

[karenzeee]

Looking forward to trying it out! Atmosphere looks nice.