![The [Great] Gatsby at Bootleggers Prohibition Pub on Chandler Street in Worcester, MA](https://massfoodandwine.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/The-Great-Gatsby-at-Bootleggers-Prohibition-Pub-on-Chandler-Street-in-Worcester-MA.jpg)
Bootleggers Prohibition Pub is a new speakeasy themed bar on Chandler Street in Worcester where EVO once was.
A speakeasy is an illicit establishment that sells alcoholic beverages. Such establishments came into prominence in the United States during the Prohibition era. During that time, the sale, manufacture, and transportation (bootlegging) of alcoholic beverages was illegal throughout the United States, hence where the name “Bootleggers” came from.
It was dark inside yet relaxed, cozy and a little mysterious. The black decor, old photos, dark wood tables and a chalk board full of moonshine cocktails made me feel like I had stepped back in time. It’s definitely a place I could see myself frequenting.
Upon arrival I started with a glass of the house Pinot Noir ($6) followed by a few appetizers that the table shared. Out of the apps I got to try, The Dry Rub Buffalo Chips ($4.99) were my favorite. They consisted of crumbled blue cheese, green onion, bacon, diced tomato, and honey blue dressing. They very packed with flavor but weren’t too heavy; a great starter!
With a surprisingly large menu and a ton of unique options, it took me a while to decide on my entree. I ended up going with The Gatsby ($10.99). With 3 cheeses, bacon, tomato, basil, and garlic oil pressed on an Italian roll paired with tomato sauce for dipping, it reminded me of a mix between two classics, a grilled cheese and a margarita pizza. If you’re in the market for an adult grilled cheese The Gatsby will certainly not let you down.
Service was good. My wine glass was always full (important!) and our food came out quick. For 7pm on a Tuesday this new restaurant was filling up fast and the servers were handling it well. I really liked how each of the waitresses wore their Bootleggers t-shirt but dressed them up with cute skirts and choker necklaces. I thought it worked well with the theme of the restaurant.
I really enjoyed this Foodies destination. Bootleggers has great food and drink options at very reasonable prices. A cocktail didn’t surpass $10, sandwiches and burgers under $15 and an entrée was $23 at most. With so many Italian and American style restaurants in the city, it’s nice to have a completely different option now!