The Chieftain Irish Pub Review

The Chieftain Irish Pub is a typical pub, a stone’s throw away from San Francisco’s famous Moscone Center.

Ambiance

The Chieftain is an ok Irish pub. It’s not too fancy, it’s not too dirty (in fact, it’s not even a little dirty), and in general it’s unremarkable. But, that’s the problem: there’s nothing about the Chieftain that caused me to pause and take in my surroundings. It’s just a place in which I can have a drink and nothing more. (20/30)

Meh (15/30)

Drink Selection

A good drink selection. (5/5)

I had Lagunitas (again!), and it was good. My friend got a Guinness and the pour looked correct, so I’d definitely recommend getting that. They look like they have a decent beer selection, which you’d expect in a pub. However, they did not have Strongbow, which is my favorite cider, and a drink I think an Irish pub should carry. (10/15)

Location

The location is ok. It’s about a five minute walk from BART, making it convenient for East Bayers and BARTers from down south. But, aside from convenience the location is just ok–nothing to keep me coming back. (11/15)

Not the most exciting or interesting part of town. BUT, I didn’t see any crackheads or vomit anywhere, so the neighborhood was decent, if unremarkable. (4/5)

Music

I can’t even remember what was playing. The music was on low and didn’t obstruct our conversation. But, then again, it didn’t help create the kind of environment you’d expect in a good Irish pub. (5/10)

Ditto – I can’t remember music either. However, they do get props for not having the music too loud – that can ruin an evening for me. (15/30)

Price

At $5 for a pint of Lagunitas and $6 for a pint of Guinness, the Chieftain is not going to win any prizes for value. (32/40)

I think the prices are fair given that the beer is good, they are located in downtown SF, and they are about the same price as their neighbors. (15/20)

Total Score

I won’t be going back here unless I don’t have a choice. (73/100)

I’ve been to better. I’ve been to worse. For an Irish pub, I think you could find a funner, more authentic place in San Francisco. This one is merely conveniently located if you’re already down by the Metreon and have too much self-respect to get drunk at Jillian’s. (59/100)

The Chieftain Irish Pub gets a final score of 66 out of 100.

The covers are here!

I scanned them in slightly crooked, but here they are! Zack did the cut outs for the paper construction, I used a scanned image of a painting I made (the fly), and I did the “spine” on the computer. The image on the back was taken in an industrial area of San Diego using magic and a very orange wall.

We spoke with the pressing company earlier today and it looks like the records should be here this week. Then we can turn our living room into a packaging center and get a ton ready for the two big shows with Autolux this weekend. First Soma on Saturday September 26th, and then Detroit Bar in Costa Mesa.

Rax Records is our own label composed of money, time, and devotion (but certainly not in that order). This is our very own self-released piece of music. Two songs, 45RPM, mixed vinyl and cute packaging. I’m so happy!

Social Calendar, Week of 9/13

Fashion Week is happening in New York City (more on that later!), but it’s a busy week in San Francisco too. Here’s what’s up:

Tues: Leaf & Petal – Three Dot Trunk show; call 650 329 8070 or check out their Facebook page for the deets. (Palo Alto)

Weds: Leaf & Petal – Celebration and Informal Fashion Show; call 650 329 8070 or check out their Facebook page for the deets. (Palo Alto)

Th: Macy’s Passport – “Fashion and compassion come together” – benefit fashion show feat. Harajuku girls. (Marina)

Th: The Mission Statement – Sample sale + jam tasting at one of my favorite shops in San Francisco. Check out their calendar, or their Facebook page for deets. (Mission)

Th + Fri (and next week): Altered Barbie – the 7th year of Altered Barbie exhibits, “Over 100 artists showcase their eco-friendly ken and Barbie art.” (Mission)

Sat: The Prince Vs. Michael Experience – so it’s not fashion related, but it looks pretty hot. (Alamo Square)

Sat + Sun: The Original Vintage Fashion Expo – happens twice a year in San Francisco, featuring the “historical, collectible, wearable” for both men and women. (SOMA)

Have fun! Maybe I’ll see you at one of the events  : )