Some people just want to hang out in their favorite neighborhood watering hole, without any nonsense going on. Some people think that your bar is your social hub; it should not only offer tall, frosty brews, but host parties, bands and perhaps the occasional costume night. While certain communities cater solely to one group or the other, Forest Park has the unique position of hosting two distinct drinking populaces. Both the quiet family man and his rowdy college-age kids will find something to like about Doc Ryan's; and, given its huge space, they often do it on the same night.

Amidst a schedule of Saturday night musical acts, sponsored events and private parties, the bar does indeed have regular old food and liquor. Anyone craving a jalapeno popper should order the oddly named Shillelaghs for $5.25. The pizzas run $13 for a large thin-crust and $17 for a large stuffed, with a half-off special for both on Mondays. While the thin isn't much of a meal, the stuffed will leave you feeling exactly that (especially if you wash it down with a pint or two of one of the several brews on tap at the large central bar). A kids menu might seem a bit odd, but Doc Ryan's seems to be a place where the parents can get away with it, even with the occasional table of partying co-eds next to them.

Centerstage Reviewer: Dan Morgridge