Who's Afraid of the Union Jack

Below is an excellent article written about the Union Jack. This article is found only on the Winchester VA Restaurant Directory

"Downtown Winchester’s nightspots have grown comfortable in the past years, watching new bars move in, struggle, take a few desperate gasps and then quietly die…even as they thrive without having made any changes since their doors opened. For customers they have a kind of old-shoe comfort that makes choosing easy.

Finally, a new challenger has thrown its hat into the ring – and simultaneously thrown a wrench into the works for the old bars’ club. Enter the Union Jack, a pub that has blended a wide array of beers and wines to impress any connoisseur with a menu that embraces traditional English fare stylishly packaged in a building that embodies Winchester’s historic charm.

Sounds nice - but can they turn curious customers into loyal regulars? So far the reviews haven't been stellar - slow service, overflowing crowds, mediocre food. Will Winchester's fickle diners wait out the Union Jack's adjustment period or will the place be written off, another flash-in-the-pan failure falling victim to the tried and tested reliability of the old stand-bys?

Well, the facade alone is worth the trip: a historic bank building, lovingly restored to its original glory in grey and red. Inside, the tall ceilings, warm color scheme and soft lighting create casual ambiance in both the well-appointed dining room and bar. Up the open stairway is an over sized landing of exposed brick and wide windows overlooking the first floor, an ideal setting for the cozy gathering of comfortable furniture. The third floor boasts a stage surrounded by high top bar tables, providing a perfect venue for live music and also featuring a spectacular view onto the Mall Square. The atmosphere is sophisticated but laid-back, a perfect mix that echoes Winchester’s own personality.

And the downside? Multiple floors make getting a drink in a reasonable amount of time almost impossible. Waiting at the bar isn't much faster - there's no elbowing through that thirsty, impatient mob staring down the extremely sluggish bartenders. And the dining experience at the Union Jack will definitely teach patrons the virtues of patience and understanding. Yes, it is no-frills pub fare - but rich potential is often undermined by sloppy preparation and careless plating.

It would be easy to label these issues as growing pains, a natural adjustment period, or some other "new restaurant" phenomena. It would also be easy to assume that, like so many other brave attempts, it will fail miserably. Many disappointed customers will return, hoping to give the place a fighting chance, while others - with smug satisfaction - will dismiss it and return to the old haunts. Some bars will find that there was nothing to fear from this feisty opponent, while others will struggle to keep their doors open thanks to this new competitor. The Union Jack's fate will be become more clear as the weeks pass, the dust settles and Winchester's crowds seek liquid comfort from the wintry cold in the darkened corners of our downtown favorites.

Despite its rocky start, this optimistic drinker hopes to be warmed by a Delirium Nocturnum, Chips with Curry Dip, and Treacle Pudding, watching the snow drift from a high perch aside the tall windows of the Union Jack.

Will you be joining me?"

WincFood.com Staff Writer