"I don’t write this lightly, but it’s extremely difficult to watch these issues, which are apparent to everyone but those in management, and which greatly affect the generally amazing staff who are the heart of what makes this place worth visiting. It is because of the staff that I have held off doing this and why selecting ‘not recommended’ makes me hesitant still. I have come here regularly for years, the main bar has the perfect atmosphere for after work or with associates, or to just watch the game. There’s been turnover and changes over the years, understandably, especially with covid. Ben and the other bartenders left, but the girls behind the bar, Katie and Bree, are great. Attentive and enjoyable to talk to. The kids working the host stand and running around are pleasant, learning, but seem to care about their efforts and working on their futures. I know one is already set for college (wish her luck) and another creates amazing costumes for theater. Hope to see him in New York one day This is what you want in a local place. To have staff where you can see them succeed and have that I knew them when' moment. I’d like to make it clear these are the reasons to come here, and why I continue to do so. The issue is everything else. The menu has changed as well not a big deal. If I'm being honest, I have NEVER come here for the food. That said, at least previously, it was mostly edible. These days, sorry today, that's not the case. I really dislike taking this step and on social media which I generally avoid. I’ve made comments to the staff to no avail, either management isn't listening or doesn't care I know I am not the only customer just shrugging and unhappy. We pay for our food and let our issues be known but we do that for the staff who seem to be putting up with everything as much as everyone else. I want to dive into some specifics for a moment, I eat a lot. I often travel for work, I am aware of quality food. It is not that the burgers and certain menu items aren't edible, it's that going to McDonalds would probably be more satisfying. That’s not a compliment to McDonalds. Nearly everything is under seasoned and underwhelming and that's if you're lucky. I have SPAT out food. The soups and gravy taste like they’re using a bouillon cube and with an unbalanced ratio at that. The homemade perogies were from the freezer last time, and the entire dish relies on the gravy for flavor. The roux is sometimes cooked. Calling the lettuce wraps Thai is pushing it, that aside its a perilous feat. One was honestly repulsive, one was…edible. I didn't dare go further that time. The only food that I trust on the menu is the fries which leads to another issue plaguing the menu. Why am I paying $6 for regular fries when I can go to Reading and get truffle fries for $7. It’s one thing to have low quality but to top it off the prices don't add up. The tumbleweed wrap at Brickhouse has layered flavor, fries and a pickle for $15. Nothing on this menu is worth that currently. This is already longer than intended but perhaps the only way for what could be an amazing place (again) to get the message. This doesn’t even cover the fact that one problematic employee is constantly encouraging discord between coworkers and appears to be frequently drinking wine while going back to the kitchen. This is not a menu, general staff issue, it is clearly a priority, execution (of the menu) ingredient quality ect one. Pottsville is doing so much to improve downtown and this place is a town staple. This is the place people go where they feel at home. I hope this is seen for what it is, a constructive critique, not intended to shame but more of a plea to step up to the plate and give staff and customers the establishment we’re all rooting for. I'll try again in another week or so when I'm back home."
