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Whatever ails your spirit, The Hangover Pub has your cure, BACON!

Cider Braised Statler Chicken from Hangover Pub in Worcester, MA

The Hangover Pub located on Green Street has been on my “must try ASAP” list since opening. I was beyond excited for New England’s first Bacon Gastro Pub! The renovated space was vibrant and alive, offering a welcoming, hip, eclectic vibe. I love art and was happy to see local artists work scattered throughout the restaurant; which of course is for sale.

I have to admit, I have a silly “rule;” I never look at a menu before I try a new restaurant. However, something about all this bacon talk had me saying just take a peek. I decided I needed to plan my evening with bacon, so I looked and I was excited.

We started with the Man Candy – Brown sugar and maple glazed thick-cut bacon. WOW! I truly think this was the best bacon I have ever had. Sweet and savory, perfect thickness with ample meat. In addition, we had the House Smoked Hog ‘Wings’ – outstanding. The flavors were spot on, a delicious smoked flavor; this was a great change of pace to the typical chicken wing.

For my main entrée (everything sounded so appetizing), I decided on the Cider Braised Statler Chicken – Sherry cream, apple, bacon, with extra Brussels sprouts (I requested to omit the potatoes). The chicken was so delicious, the sherry cream was not too heavy, accompanied with sufficient apple and bacon to meld all of these exciting flavors, cooked perfectly, moist, melted in your mouth; the brussle sprouts were good as well but I didn’t eat many as I wanted to eat all of my chicken.

We did some sharing with our fellow foodies, homemade chips, awesome, fries, awesome, Poutine awesome, catch of the day, awesome, Zeppolis awesome!

Also, I would be remiss not commenting on my cocktail, the Sangria is excellent!

The owner, Jay, came over to greet us and to say if we need anything, just ask. He took a few minutes to explain his vision and future vision of The Hangover Pub. Loved his ideas, love how The Hangover Pub came to fruition.

The service was excellent; I can fully appreciate how large parties can be a challenge. We were well taken care of, the food came out all at once, and everyone was so friendly and helpful. A+ for the service and staff.

I loved The Hangover Pub and it will definitely be on my list of favorite spots in Worcester. I cannot wait to sit at the bar, have me some Man Candy and try some of the interesting craft cocktails, and of course go back for Brunch!

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Pan Roasted Sea Bass at The Hangover Pub

The Pan Seared Sea Bass from The Hangover Pub on Green Street in Worcester, MA

I had seen numerous posts on Facebook about the Hangover Pub… check-ins and likes and favorable comments but I really wasn’t expecting much out of the ordinary. Was I ever in for a surprised! Really cool artwork, tables and chairs, people smiling and chatting comfortably, wait staff hustling about, and my friends even saved me a seat! Even if the food was just average I was already having a great night. But the food was outstanding — just the right amount of spiciness and the portions ample.

I ordered the Chef’s Special of the Day, “PAN SEARED SEA BASS, W/FRANGO CHILI SAUCE OVER JASMINE RICE, WITH SAUTÉED GREEN BEANS.” From the first bite to the last this dish was beyond all expectations. The ambrosial, delicate, and flaky white fleshed sea bass was seared to perfection and the spicy jasmine rice that it sat on had a wonderful light crispiness to it that made every mouthful a joy to consume. I really didn’t want the experience to end but soon I was looking down at a bare plate and was forced to face reality. This particular meal was done but I was comforted in the fact that this place is definitely not going away any time soon. I shall return!

I don’t even remember being served … and that in my opinion is a good thing! Drinks arrived, the food appeared, my water glass maintained, and it all happened without me having to pay attention or get involved. It doesn’t get any better than that!

In retrospect the entire place was in sync — the walls, the tables, the artwork, the service, the food, the smiles, the chatter, the movement — it all felt like one thing … one really good thing. I can’t wait to do it all again … this time prepared to step into another world.