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Ocean Ale House
Master Critic Reviews (8 Lists)
Ocean Ale House
8.2
Vibes:
Brewery & Beer Garden Republic
Group Dining Gatherings
Happy Hour Hotspots
Comfort Food Classics
Neighborhood pub known for a thoughtful tap list and a hefty burger program. The patty melt and rotating burger specials pair well with local pours.
Must-Try Dishes:
Okie Onion Burger, Patty Melt, Hand-Cut Fries
Scores:
Value: 7.6
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8
Food Quality: 8.3
Atmosphere: 7.8
Cultural Relevance: 7.4
What makes it special: Taproom energy with burgers built for serious pub fare cravings.
Who should go: Beer lovers and burger-focused pub fans
When to visit: Weekdays 4–6pm for easier seating
What to order: Okie Onion Burger, Patty Melt, brisket add-on fries
Insider tip: Check the rotating burger specials—often limited and worth it.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking along Ocean Avenue and nearby residential blocks; can be competitive after 6pm but generally manageable before evening rush.
Dress code: Casual to smart casual—jeans, sweaters, and casual button-ups fit the neighborhood pub vibe.
Noise level: Moderate to lively; conversations are possible at most tables though bar area can get loud during game nights.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes during peak hours; reservations recommended for groups.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait; bar seating and small tables available quickly.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes – veggie burger and several salads or sides can satisfy non-meat eaters.
Vegan options: Limited – can customize salads or fries, but core menu leans meaty.
Gluten-free options: Partial – gluten-free buns available upon request; beer list includes a few ciders for non-gluten drinkers.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes, if you’re after a relaxed, casual first date with quality beer and conversation-friendly booths. It’s less ideal for a quiet or upscale evening.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually yes for small parties before 6pm or on weekdays; larger groups should book ahead, especially Fridays and weekends.
Is it kid-friendly? Somewhat – families are welcome earlier in the evening, but the vibe shifts more adult-oriented after 8pm when the bar crowd builds.
Best For
Better for: Craft beer lovers and burger fans who appreciate a relaxed neighborhood pub atmosphere with rotating local taps.
Skip if: You’re seeking a quiet dinner, full cocktail program, or purely vegan-friendly options.
Ocean Ale House
8.1
Vibes:
Brewery & Beer Garden Republic
Happy Hour Hotspots
Group Dining Gatherings
Comfort Food Classics
Neighborhood tap-centric spot pairing a strong rotating beer list with pub wings—Buffalo or chili-garlic-butter—served hot and crisp. Comfortable seating and friendly service make it an easy Ocean Avenue standby.
Must-Try Dishes:
Buffalo Wings, Chili-Garlic-Butter Wings, Bacon Cheddar Burger
Scores:
Value: 8
Service: 8
Consistency: 8.3
Food Quality: 8.2
Atmosphere: 7.8
Cultural Relevance: 7.9
What makes it special: Quality pub wings matched to a curated tap list.
Who should go: Beer lovers craving crispy wings
When to visit: Early evenings; easiest tables and fresh batches
What to order: Buffalo wings, chili-garlic-butter wings, house fries
Insider tip: Check the draft board—IPAs pair especially well with Buffalo heat.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is generally available along Ocean Avenue and nearby residential blocks, though it can tighten after 7pm; no dedicated lot or valet.
Dress code: Casual to smart casual — jeans and tees are fine, but locals often dress up a bit for evening gatherings.
Noise level: Moderate — you can carry on a conversation at the bar or table, but it hums during weekend rushes.
Weekend wait: 25–40 minutes without a reservation, faster at the bar area.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait; open seating at most tables.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — a few small plates, salads, and fries can be ordered without meat.
Vegan options: Limited — 1–2 side options and certain fries or pretzels qualify.
Gluten-free options: Yes — wings can be ordered without breading, and ciders are offered as alternatives to beer.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes — it’s relaxed but not sloppy, with warm lighting and a strong tap list that makes for easy conversation. More ‘fun casual’ than formal romantic.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually yes, especially before 6:30pm or on weeknights. The bar and high-top area are first-come, first-served.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes during daytime and early evening — families often dine before 8pm. High chairs are available, and the staff is accommodating, though it leans adult after 9pm.
Best For
Better for: Craft beer lovers and groups seeking elevated pub wings in a relaxed neighborhood setting.
Skip if: You’re after a quiet, candlelit dinner or a menu heavy on non-fried options — it’s built around beer and wings.
Ocean Ale House
8.2
Vibes:
Brewery & Beer Garden Republic
Happy Hour Hotspots
Group Dining Gatherings
Comfort Food Classics
Neighborhood tap-centric spot where thin-cut fries show up as a proper side and in steak frites. Rotating beers and friendly staff make it an easy Ocean Avenue standby for fry-and-pint nights.
Must-Try Dishes:
Steak Frites, Thin-Cut Fries with Aioli, Beer-Battered Onion Rings
Scores:
Value: 7.9
Service: 8.4
Consistency: 8.4
Food Quality: 8.3
Atmosphere: 7.6
Cultural Relevance: 7.8
What makes it special: Pub-style fries paired with a curated rotating tap list.
Who should go: Beer lovers who want dependable fries
When to visit: Early evenings before the dinner rush
What to order: Steak frites; fries with aioli; onion rings
Insider tip: Check the draft board—hoppier pours pair best with salty fries.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on Ocean Avenue and nearby side streets is free but fills quickly after 6pm; metered spots in front are usually open before 5pm.
Dress code: Casual to smart casual—jeans and sneakers are fine, but locals often dress up slightly for dinner or date nights.
Noise level: Moderate—conversation is easy at smaller tables, though bar seating can get lively during peak happy hour.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes without a reservation, especially for groups larger than four.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait; walk-ins are seated immediately.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—side fries, salads, and a veggie burger are regular menu fixtures.
Vegan options: Limited—plain fries and some small plates can be made vegan on request.
Gluten-free options: Partial—ask for gluten-free buns and note that fries share a fryer with other items.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—its comfortable booths, craft beer lineup, and friendly service create a relaxed setting that works well for casual first dates.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually—walk-ins are fine early evenings or weekdays, but groups should call ahead on weekends to avoid the dinner rush.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes—families are welcome, and high chairs are available; early dinner hours are the best time for kids before the bar crowd arrives.
Best For
Better for: Better for beer drinkers and groups who want solid fries alongside hearty pub food in a comfortable neighborhood setting.
Skip if: Skip if you’re looking for late-night service past 10pm or a purely vegetarian kitchen.
Ocean Ale House
8.4
Vibes:
Business Lunch Power Players
Brewery & Beer Garden Republic
Comfort Food Classics
Group Dining Gatherings
Neighborhood gastropub known for a strong craft beer program and a lunch-friendly menu ranging from an Okie onion burger to a solid steak frites. Comfortable booths, quick midday pace, and reliable execution make it an easy choice for a professional meetup on Ocean Ave.
Must-Try Dishes:
Okie Onion Burger, Crab Sandwich, Steak Frites
Scores:
Value: 8
Service: 8.3
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 8.8
Atmosphere: 7.6
Cultural Relevance: 8.2
What makes it special: Craft beer–driven gastropub with a business-friendly lunch menu.
Who should go: Teams wanting casual but polished midday meetups
When to visit: Weekdays 12–2pm for full lunch service
What to order: Okie Onion Burger; Steak Frites; Crab Sandwich
Insider tip: Ask about tap rotations—bartenders can suggest a quick pairing.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking available along Ocean Ave and nearby residential blocks; no valet or dedicated lot. Arrive before noon for easier spots.
Dress code: Smart casual—collared shirts or blouses fit in with the business-lunch crowd, jeans are fine if neat.
Noise level: Moderate—conversations carry but you can easily discuss work topics without shouting.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes during prime hours, reservations recommended for groups.
Weekday lunch: Usually seated immediately or within 5–10 minutes.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—salads, veggie burger, and several share plates are available.
Vegan options: Limited—1–2 adaptable items; ask staff for modifications.
Gluten-free options: Yes—gluten-free buns and fries cooked separately; staff knowledgeable about allergies.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? More suited for colleagues or casual meetups than romantic first dates. The vibe is relaxed and professional rather than intimate.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—most weekday lunches are walk-in friendly, though booking ahead helps for larger groups or late afternoon meetings.
Is it kid-friendly? Moderately—welcomes families during daytime hours, with high chairs available, but evenings skew adult with bar traffic.
Best For
Better for: Stronger craft beer lineup and better-executed pub fare than nearby casual lunch spots; ideal balance of polish and approachability.
Skip if: You’re seeking a quiet white-tablecloth lunch or a purely vegan menu—try a nearby café or salad-focused bistro instead.
Ocean Ale House
7.8
Vibes:
Late Night Legends
Brewery & Beer Garden Republic
Group Dining Gatherings
Happy Hour Hotspots
Neighborhood beer spot with a legit patty melt, late weekend hours, and a solid tap list. It’s a comfortable option when you want a burger-adjacent fix with drinks after evening events.
Must-Try Dishes:
Dirty’s Patty Melt, Fried Potato Wedges, Buffalo Wings
Scores:
Value: 7.4
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 7.7
Food Quality: 7.9
Atmosphere: 8
Cultural Relevance: 7.9
What makes it special: Beer-forward pub with a standout patty melt and late Fri–Sat service.
Who should go: Burger lovers who want good beer with it
When to visit: Friday–Saturday late evening for kitchen and taps
What to order: Dirty’s Patty Melt; potato wedges; house wings
Insider tip: Grab bar seats for quicker food and easy second rounds.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Mostly street parking along Ocean Avenue and nearby residential blocks; can fill up after 7pm on weekends but turnover is steady.
Dress code: Casual and comfortable — jeans, hoodies, and post-event attire all fit the vibe.
Noise level: Moderate; you can hold a conversation but expect background chatter from the bar area.
Weekend wait: 25–40 minutes for a table after 8pm; bar seating usually available faster.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait; service is quick if the bar isn’t busy.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — several pub staples like salads, fries, and veggie sides are available.
Vegan options: Limited — the menu focuses on pub fare but modifications can be requested.
Gluten-free options: Partial — some items like wings and salads can be adapted upon request; no dedicated fryer.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? It works for a casual first date if you want an easygoing beer-and-burger vibe; lighting is warm and not too loud for conversation.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — they don’t take reservations; just walk in. Arrive before 8:30pm on weekends to avoid the bar crowd.
Is it kid-friendly? During earlier hours, yes — families are welcome until around 9pm. After that, it leans more toward an adult bar crowd.
Best For
Better for: A relaxed beer-and-burger night with quality pub food and local taps — great for groups or casual hangs.
Skip if: You’re seeking a quiet or romantic setting; noise and bar energy pick up after 9pm.
Ocean Ale House
8.4
Neighborhood gastropub pouring local taps with a reliable wing program and weeknight drink specials. Wings are crisp, well-seasoned, and pair with rotating beers in a relaxed Ocean Ave setting.
Must-Try Dishes:
Buffalo Wings (mochiko-battered), Garlic Parmesan Wings, Korean-style Sticky Wings
Scores:
Value: 8.2
Service: 8.1
Consistency: 8.7
Food Quality: 8.8
Atmosphere: 7.6
Cultural Relevance: 8
What makes it special: House-fried wings with multiple sauces alongside a strong local beer list.
Who should go: Wing lovers who want pints and TVs
When to visit: Weeknights 4–7pm for drink specials and easy seating
What to order: Buffalo; garlic-parmesan; a sampler split with fries
Insider tip: Ask for extra-crisp fry and sauce on the side for better crunch.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Free street parking along Ocean Avenue and side streets, but it fills up quickly after 6pm. No dedicated lot or valet.
Dress code: Casual—locals drop by in jeans and tees, though polished casual fits the relaxed pub atmosphere.
Noise level: Moderate to lively, especially during games. Easy conversation on weeknights, louder on weekends.
Weekend wait: 20–35 minutes during peak sports events or happy hour rush.
Weekday lunch: No wait—walk right in and grab a table or bar seat.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—salads, mac & cheese, and a few small plates available.
Vegan options: Limited—fries and select sides can be made vegan on request.
Gluten-free options: Partial—some mains can be modified; beers are not gluten-free.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for a casual meetup than a romantic dinner—laid-back and social, ideal for craft beer fans or shared wings.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes, they don’t take formal reservations. Walk-ins are fine, especially before 6:30pm or after 8pm.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes before 9pm. There’s a family-friendly vibe early evening with high chairs available and simple menu options for kids.
Best For
Better for: Local craft beer pairings and reliably crisp wings in a true neighborhood pub setting.
Skip if: You’re looking for a quiet dinner or upscale cocktail bar atmosphere—this is more casual and game-night oriented.
Ocean Ale House
8.4
Neighborhood gastropub pouring local taps with a tight menu of seasonal American plates. Locals come for reliable house-fried wings, smash burgers, and rotating beers in a lively Ocean Avenue setting.
Must-Try Dishes:
Smash Burger with cheddar, House-fried Buffalo wings, Fish & chips
Scores:
Value: 8.1
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 8.7
Atmosphere: 7.8
Cultural Relevance: 8.4
What makes it special: Local-beer focus with a from-scratch American pub menu.
Who should go: Beer lovers and gastropub fans
When to visit: Weeknights 4–7pm for easier seats and taps
What to order: Smash burger; Buffalo wings; fish & chips
Insider tip: Ask for sauce-on-the-side wings for extra-crisp skin.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Free street parking along Ocean Avenue and side streets; limited spots during dinner rush, but meters are easy after 6pm.
Dress code: Casual to smart casual — jeans, tees, or button-ups all fit the relaxed neighborhood vibe.
Noise level: Moderate — lively during happy hour and games, but you can hold a conversation at most tables.
Weekend wait: 20–35 minutes during peak hours, walk-ins accepted.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait; bar seats open quickly.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — salads, fries, and seasonal veggie plates available.
Vegan options: Limited — a few modifiable items like salads or sides.
Gluten-free options: Some items available with adjustments; ask for gluten-free buns or fries cooked separately.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes — it’s casual but lively, with craft beers and comfort food that keep the mood easy. Great for a low-pressure, conversation-friendly date.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually yes. They don’t take many reservations; early arrivals or bar seating are your best bet, especially before 6:30pm.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes — daytime and early evening are family-friendly with space for strollers. High chairs available and kids’ portions can be adjusted.
Best For
Better for: Craft beer variety, friendly staff, and reliable American pub fare in a neighborhood setting.
Skip if: You’re seeking a quiet fine-dining experience or a purely plant-based menu.
Ocean Ale House
8.1
Vibes:
Brewery & Beer Garden Republic
Group Dining Gatherings
Happy Hour Hotspots
Outdoor Dining Oasis
Neighborhood ale house with a thoughtful tap list and seasonal pub fare. The menu leans comfort—patty melts, fish & chips, wings—executed with better-than-average ingredients and care.
Must-Try Dishes:
Dirty’s Patty Melt, Fish & Chips (Pacific cod), Buffalo Wings
Scores:
Value: 7.8
Service: 8.3
Consistency: 8
Food Quality: 8.2
Atmosphere: 7.6
Cultural Relevance: 7.5
What makes it special: Craft-beer focused pub with a kitchen that cooks like it cares.
Who should go: Beer fans and casual groups
When to visit: Late afternoon for happy hour and patio seats
What to order: Patty melt; wings; fish & chips
Insider tip: Check the rotating taps—limited kegs often run mid-week.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking available on Ocean Avenue and nearby residential streets; tends to fill up after 6pm on weekends.
Dress code: Casual to smart casual—most patrons wear jeans or polos, though evenings skew slightly dressier.
Noise level: Moderate—conversation-friendly inside with livelier energy near the bar area.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes during peak hours; reservations recommended for larger groups.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait; service is steady and efficient.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—several hearty options like veggie burgers, salads, and seasonal starters.
Vegan options: Limited—1–2 adaptable dishes; staff can modify sides on request.
Gluten-free options: Some items can be made gluten-free, including fries and certain mains; inquire with staff.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—it’s relaxed but elevated, with a welcoming pub feel and a patio that offers a comfortable setting for conversation.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually, yes for small parties during non-peak hours; weekends benefit from booking ahead to avoid waits.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes—families are common earlier in the evening; there’s a kids’ menu and accommodating staff, though noise rises later at night.
Best For
Better for: Craft beer selection and elevated pub fare compared to standard neighborhood bars.
Skip if: You’re seeking fine dining or a quiet, romantic evening—it’s more of a lively community spot.