Columbia’s Publick House Reinvigorates Its Menu and Vibe
Columbia, SC, is buzzing with excitement as one of its beloved bars, Publick House, embarks on an adventurous journey of transformation. After turning 30 this year, the neighborhood staple has undergone a significant renovation and refreshed its menu to delight both long-time patrons and new visitors.
A Taste of Tradition
At the heart of this transformation is owner and chef Drew Kalagher, a culinary wizard who brings an artisan touch to the classic bar experience. Known particularly for his mouthwatering chicken wings, Kalagher is also the mastermind behind the bar’s homemade corned beef, which he serves daily on the much-loved Reuben sandwich.
Kalagher’s corned beef has a unique twist: he’s one of the very few chefs in South Carolina making it from scratch. Drawing inspiration from his Irish heritage and grandmothers who cooked with love, Kalagher documents the intricate process of producing corned beef. “The texture should be like meat butter,” he shared with a smile.
The Craft of Corned Beef
The meticulous process starts with brisket, which Kalagher boils low and slow for about three and a half hours before letting it sit in a homemade brine for three weeks. This blend features an aromatic mix of spices, including cinnamon, cloves, and juniper berries, making each bite a flavor explosion.
After brining, the briskets are hand-prepared, with Kalagher carefully scraping off the fat. He emphasizes that timing is crucial—undercooked meat will fall apart at the wrong moment, while perfectly boiled brisket becomes tender and luscious.
A Fresh Start for Publick House
Since January 2023, when the renovations were completed, the menu at Publick House has been carefully honed. Kalagher and his team are taking their time to roll out new items, prioritizing quality over quantity. The focus is on creating an inviting atmosphere for everyone, from families and female patrons to the regulars who love the classic vibe of the pub.
“We wanted to retain our loyal customers while attracting new ones,” Kalagher explained. In doing so, they’ve introduced delectable specials throughout the week, including Thursday prime rib nights and a delicious Monday burger night with pint specials.
Updating the Atmosphere
Walk into the newly renovated Publick House, and you’re greeted by a bright and invigorating space. The once-dark walls have undergone a makeover with light gray paint, complemented by a fun mural of a whale and diver. This charming decor hints at the bar’s playful character while maintaining its classic pub roots.
To enhance the drinking experience, a state-of-the-art beer cooler with 18 taps has been installed. This cooler is designed to keep each beer at its optimal temperature, ensuring a perfect pour every time. Not just beers, however, as the bar is also introducing a lineup of craft cocktails to cater to every taste.
A New Era
Kalagher, who came on board at Publick House in 2007 and took ownership in 2012, is excited about the future. He acknowledges that many beloved menu items like their famous wings, which are still often regarded as some of the best in Columbia, will remain unchanged. “We want to keep that comforting feel while introducing some fresh ideas,” he said.
Plans are also in the works to open up a neighboring space, previously known as Black Market Tavern, into a casual cocktail bar on weekend nights. This expansion aims to create an even more vibrant community spot where friends can gather for both casual drinks and delicious food.
Looking Ahead
As Publick House gears up for its second year of Oktoberfest specials, Kalagher and his team are hopeful about continuing this journey to rejuvenate the neighborhood bar. With a mix of classic recipes and a sprinkle of creativity, they aim to make Publick House a cherished destination for anyone looking for good eats and great company.
In Columbia, the heart of the local community beats strong at Publick House, a bar that perfectly blends tradition and modernity to create a warm, inviting spot for all. Cheers to many more years of delightful dining and camaraderie!
