Nathaniel's Pub: My Favorite Watering Hole

I have hung out at bars, lounges, and pubs all across America. It's part of the territory for a traveling activist. After all, a long, hard day of meetings, advocacy, and protests is sure to tire out even the most die-hard among us, and we need a place to relax, have a bite to eat, and tip back a drink or two.

Of all the watering holes that I have frequented, my favorite is a spot called Nathaniel's Pub, located at 251 Exchange Blvd, in the Corn Hill section of Rochester, New York. It is named for Nathaniel Rochester, the city's founder. Since Rochester is my home, the folks at Nathaniel's see a lot of me, my friends, and my colleagues.

There is no connection of any kind between Nathaniel's Pub and me, or members of my family. They have no idea that this article is being written.

Nathaniel's has three things that has kept me coming back - the food, the atmosphere, and the attitude of the staff.

The Food

Chicken is my favorite food, and Nathaniel's has a lot of it. There are chicken wraps, wings, melts, tenders, and salads. My favorites are the tenders and wings. On Sundays during football season, Nathaniel's has a thirty cent wing special. I have been known to go through fifteen of their tender, juicy wings in one sitting!

Then, there are the potato skins and loaded fries, Nathaniel's calorie and carbohydrate-filled heaven on a plate. Generous portions of French fries or potato skins are drenched with melted cheddar cheese and sour cream, then, heaped with scallions and bits of real, crispy bacon. These treats are best eaten with a friend or two, as no one has been known to get through a serving by themselves.

There is other delicious fare to be had at Nathaniel's such as steaks, burgers, ribs, and seafood, as well as every kind of drink imaginable.

The Atmosphere

Nathaniel's atmosphere is best described as relaxed and friendly. People go there for the good food and drinks, and to have fun. Several dart boards adorn the walls, along with ten big-screen televisions for the sports fans. There is also an outdoor patio where patrons can relax during the spring and summer months.

The Attitude of Staff

Of all the reasons that I go to Nathaniel's Pub, this one is the most important. Staff is caring, friendly, and attentive. They truly care that the food is good, or that you are satisfied with the drinks.

To me, the best thing about Nathaniel's is the attitude of its staff toward people with disabilities. I have been to places where staff is friendly to other customers, but awkward around people with disabilities. Nathaniel's staff treats people with disabilities as if we are real human beings. They don't freak out if a number of people who use wheelchairs show up. It does not bother anyone that some of us may be blind, deaf, or have speech impairments.

For those who might wonder what the big deal is, imagine what it would be like if people refused to speak directly to you and instead, spoke to your companion. Imagine being spoken to and patted on the head as if you were a small child, and not an intelligent adult. Think about how you would feel if a server asked your husband what you wanted to eat, or asked your wife if it was okay that you have a glass of wine with your meal. Try to fathom being told that you are a fire hazard, or "in the way" simply because you use a wheelchair. Think about it. Reflect on how it feels to be treated like a second class citizen.

The fact that I and others with disabilities are respected and treated like people is the main reason why Nathaniel's Pub is my favorite watering hole.

Sources:

Personal experience

Nathaniel's Pub