$8 for a beer?

A few weeks ago I found myself at the legendary Horseshoe Tavern for the release party of The Stills' latest album, Oceans Will Rise. Now I'm not much of an Indie music fan but I figured that a free concert with good company would make for a fun Tuesday night.

Turns out my expectations were exceeded by the melodic and passionate voice of the lead singer. The Stills' sound was more lyrical and rock based than Indie inspired, which I much preferred.

The fans at the jam packed show were really into the music and didn't seem to mind the humidity and awful acoustics that add to the nostalgic element of the Horseshoe. However, the fans who were waiting outside the venue were probably pretty pissed off that the release party was held at such a small place. Sure an intimate vibe was created, but the nostalgic aspect of the night wore off as soon as I ordered an imported beer and the bartender asked for $8.

Yikes! $8 for a bottle of beer at The Horseshoe? I decided to order a Blue instead for a more reasonable $5 but was dismayed to learn that such a dirty bar with an awful sound and ventiliation system had the nerve to charge so much.

A friend of mine recently visited the newly opened Biermarket at King & Portland and also complained about spending $8 on a beer. However, she ordered a pint and in my opinion, $8 for a large glass of a unique type of beer at a clean and pleasant venue, is much more acceptable.