Union Pub: A Snacker's Paradise

Our "U Bar" was a haven for all who love to snack. Indeed, at Union Pub, we dined on corn dog bites, mini crab cakes, tater tots, and hush puppies while monster mosquitoes dined on us. I found this appropriate, considering the bar also proclaims to be the go-to joint for Nebraska Cornhusker fans, and usually when I think of that fine state I picture corn-fried snacks and killer bugs. I'm pretty serious about how intense the mosquito attack was as we sat outside on the huge patio (which is actually nice and surely enjoyable under normal circumstances). But I won't let that ruin what was otherwise a great evening full of the aforementioned snacks and cheap buckets of beer.

The night started slow and I was a bit worried, but soon an influx of AtoZers joined us on the patio for the snack-beer cornucopia. We had new and old friends alike, and enjoyed pleasant conversation ranging from worst mosquito experiences to worst popular "rock" bands. The verdict: Nickelback, Daughtry, Lifehouse, then 3 Doors Down. If you disagree, please stop being my friend.

It was a hot night and the bar was crowded, but the friendly staff were quick to accommodate our needs by setting up several long tables together. I feared we might be too much for the waitress, but she ended up being amazing. Every time any of us needed anything, she was there. She somehow anticipated not just when we needed more buckets, but when we were nearing a critical low mass of tots. I wouldn't be surprised if she was a robot sent from heaven. But despite her keen ability to cater to our needs, I still feared that when the time came to pay the bill, chaos would ensue and we'd come up far short, as too often happens. I was pleasantly surprised, however, when our group of 25+ managed to pay the bill with the perfect amount, using only 2 credit cards and no calculator. Truly an amazing feat that may never happen again.

We ended up having a surprisingly good night considering our previous attempts at Capitol Hill bars have come up short. I'd recommend Union Pub to anyone who is a fan of sports bars, snacks, cheap beer, or outdoor seating. There's nothing gimmicky or extraordinary about it, but it's a plain ole good time.

All-star of the evening: Our waitress. I wish I knew her name!