Patrick J's Irish Pub has taken over former Hiller's Market on 12 Mile in Berkley. The market, which occupied the space for more than 60 years, has gotten a spiffy remodel and is welcoming the community with its unique warm atmosphere and homestyle meals.
For only being open for two months, owner Bob Bronstein says that Patrick J's customers range from young children to senior citizens. Bronstein says 90 percent of the items found on the menu are made from scratch, and the customer favorite is the fish and chips.
"It's a huge and great piece of fish for $16," says Bronstein. Most of Patrick J's menu is like its bar — Irish.
Grab your drink on the granite-top bar that stretches from the door to the kitchen. Unlike other pubs, Patrick J's offers 30 regular beers on draft and almost 40 in a bottle — something that is usually only found at places like HopCat or Jolly Pumpkin. You can find 15 Michigan-made beers along with the house favorites like Guinness and Harp.
For 10 years, Bronstein has also owned 24 Seconds, a sports bar located across the street, but he says this pub is completely different. "It's more based off of the Irish pubs I've seen in Chicago or New York," he says. "It's a little more modern." The exposed vents and wooden beams make it a homey, warm atmosphere, with a classy chandelier touch giving it that upscale look.
"My wife designed the place," says Bronstein. "She's been a huge asset. She works both places and is my best employee by far."
Try some of the famous Irish whiskeys and bourbons while playing a few of their arcade games and listening to the talented live musicians.
Join them on Thursdays for Irish Drink Night and their happy hours Monday-Friday, 4-6 p.m., for half-off appetizers and a dollar-off wines.
