More than a sports bar

Neighborhood pub offers upscale cuisine in a fun atmosphere

The Hangover Burger is a staple at Farrell's. It tops a crisp hashbrown with a hand-patted Angus beef burger, American cheese, bacon and an over-easy egg.

The Hangover Burger is a staple at Farrell's. It tops a crisp hashbrown with a hand-patted Angus beef burger, American cheese, bacon and an over-easy egg.

Sunday, October 7, 2012

Farrell’s Bar & Lounge, located in the central area of West Dickson Street in Fayetteville, caters to an eclectic crowd.

With booth seating that lines the windows overlooking the entertainment district, plenty of large high-definition TV’s, a pool table, 35 draft beers and more, the ambiance is as enjoyable as the entrees.

The primary difference between Farrell’s Bar & Lounge and a classic college-town sports bar is the emphasis on quality cuisine in an atmosphere that is also fitting for the over-30 crowd, said co-owner Tim Farrell, Jr.

The menu includes bar-style selections such as wings, fries and burgers, but head chef William McCormick applies his culinary training and education to offer an intentional combination of flavors. For instance, the Muenster cheese fries are deep-fried twice to be extra crispy, then topped with cheese, grilled jalapenos, bacon, tomatoes, diced red onions and scallions. Wing sauces offered include Buffalo, garlic parmesan, Asian plum or sweet and smoky.

The hand-patted Angus beef burgers are served full size or as sliders with Tillamook’s sharp cheddar, caramelized onions and Dijon mustard on King Hawaiian rolls.

The Hangover Burger is popular with those craving a late-night remedy, as well as those curious to try the unique combination. A seasoned patty is cooked to order and placed atop crispy hashbrowns; topped with American cheese, applewood-smoked slab bacon and an over-easy fried egg; then nestled between a lightly toasted Kaiser roll.

There are a few fixed dishes on the menu, although chef-inspired adaptations change with the seasons.

“We switch up the entrees and use fresh and local ingredients whenever possible. We will always have steak, chicken, fish and pork, although how it is prepared varies,” Farrell said.

A children’s menu, available to diners ages 12 and under, offers classic selections including chicken tenders, grilled cheese or a hot dog. All items are served with chips and are priced under $4.

House-made desserts include the Rogue Chocolate Stout brownie a la mode, lemon curd tartlet and a soda float of the day, such as orange cream soda with orange sorbet.

More information is available online at farrellslounge.com.