I haven't eaten here...but karaoke was fun and the bartenders were good. I like their outdoor patio! It will be much nicer once it *actually* gets nice, weather-wise here. I'd be back for drinks without putting up much of a fight.
(3)
Sean L.
Crust is obviously frozen and factory made. It came out soggy and flavorless. Hardly any sauce. Veggies are fresh but the foundation of a good pizza simply isn't there. The beer is good, but it's not like they had to do much work to accomplish that feat. The location is fantastic and it's not even a bad place to drink but the pizza is terrible.
(2)
Julie K.
Nice Folks & love the Super Large Family Size Salad that stuffed the 3 of us!!! Great drink specials too!! Definitely coming back... I recommend trying the Breckenridge vanilla porter. The snowflake decorations are cute at Christmas time too!!!
(4)
Kristie T.
A large group of us went as an Anti-Valentine's day evening because we are all single. I didn't order food, but everyone around me did so I got to taste test the Mama Bearnos and the bbq chicken pizza. It was great. I was drinking the Bell's Smitten and it was very good also. I usually choose the Bearnos in Jeffersonville since I'm closer to that one, but this one was still just as good.
(4)
Daphne A.
I'd had Bearno's by UofL a few times. Never my favorite pizza - just didn't care for the style. I would give those experiences a 2 star for sure. When my dad was in town this past weekend, he chose Bearno's. I couldn't say no, because my father NEVER chooses the place to eat. We obliged and we were at the Bardstown Rd location. I remembered someone mentioned on a thread on hear regarding pizza in Louisville and I'm ALWAYS searching for my absolute favorite style of pizza - lots of crumble sausage, lots of melted cheese ON TOP of the pizza, slightly sweet sauce and lots of spices. I wish there was a style of pizza I could refer to it as - but I can never find something similar (mom and pop places sometimes have it this style, or the former chain in Indy called Jack's did). Anyway, someone mentioned that Bearno's thin crust had cheese on top of the toppings, so that was my saving grace going to Bearno's. When we walked in, there wasn't a sole in sight. The warm Italian something-or-other smell that permeated the place was nice. They had the door open for the breeze to come in as it was a nice day. Server was pretty quick. Father ordered a Pizza Sub and his gf ordered a Stromboli Steak sandwich. Both reported that they enjoyed their sandwiches. Dad mentioned his Pizza Sub could have had more sauce. I did order a small thin crust with my favorite toppings. I was delighted that the cheese was on top of the toppings, but there was still something missing or just not exactly what I wanted out of it. However, I would def not be disappointed if my friends wanted Bearno's again, now that I know to order thin crust. Thats what bumps it to 3 for me. Thanks for the tip, fellow Yelper.
(3)
Ekta S.
We went on a last minute impulse to eat a veggie pizza. Three of us shared a medium veggie pizza, and got exactly what we asked for. Warm fresh pizza served quite quickly. Friendly servers, fun crowd cheering on the cards vs cats game and live music. What else can I ask for? Prized just about ok too.
(4)
Matt R.
Uninspiring. Yeah, it's better than the chains. I'd also say that if you get one of the pies loaded with toppings, it's not so bad. But I've tried Bearnos several times, and each time I wonder why I'm not eating Papalino's or Mozza Pi. The crust is very thin and without texture or style and it can get a little soggy. The other ingredients don't really make up for these shortcomings. And it's cut into undignified little squares. Perfectly edible little squares. But the real killer is that there are several clearly better pizza options within walking distance. And while pizza comes in all types of culinary styles, Bearnos has perfected none of them.
(2)
Kevin M.
If I was rating on service 1 star, if I was rating on the Mama Bearno's pizza 5 star. They always seem to struggle with service at this location ( someone called in or was a no show) but they always seem to have better pizza than the other Bearno's. I've had pretty much every one of the better pizzas in town over the past few months. I can't remember one any better than this one. Papalino's and Loui Louis in J-Town were close.
(3)
Richard F.
Bearno's pizza is as good as it gets. I enjoy getting a tossed salad with ranch dressing and a large jalapeño cheese pizza. That with a large tea and I'm in heaven. I've tried most everything on the menu and there really isn't anything that's not good. If you like pizza, you'll love Bearno's
(5)
Herman P.
We decided to go to the actual restaurant with family; overall the food we ordered , 16 inch and 10 inch pizza , pisghetti and meatballs; total bill $50 plus 20% tip( don't blame server for mediocre food) We decided we are done with this restaurant.
(2)
Zain K.
The pizza didn't look compelling, so I ordered a hot chicken breast sandwich ($9). The chicken was dry and over-salted, the cheese was chewy (not in a good way), and the mushrooms and peppers I paid an extra $1.50 for were scant. For nine times the price of a McChicken, I expected much better (I'm not sure when I started using the McChicken as a benchmark for anything). Also, my beer was flat and my friend's wine had gone bad.
(1)
Ian J.
The pizza here is delicious!!! You may have to eat it with a fork and knife, but it's worth it. The place has a bad rap, but it's under new management. Vince, the new manager is amazing, and Chase took very good care of us. We will definitely be back!!!
(5)
Kevin S.
Came here for the Zombie Walk, Yelp was holding an event here (thinking if Yelp thinks it's worthy to hold an event, is MUST be good!) nope. I had a Stromboli sandwich that had the same flavor and appearance as a White Castle slider with a poor representation of marinara sauce. The service was...meh, some of the staff were great others were flat out rude. At least I can say I tried it.
(2)
Jack B.
Went here with two friends and we ordered a meat lover's pizza (that may not be the official name). We were shocked to find the pizza absolutely covered in sausage without a balance of other meats. It was more sausage than I've ever seen on anything in my life--like a weird practical joke or something. We brushed lots and lots of sausage off onto our plates (it was in crumbly balls that didn't stay on the pizza anyway) and it was still way too much sausage. We still jokingly refer to it as "meat mountain." Ugh. I'm not going back.
(2)
Terry M.
Had the veggie pizza,was surprisingly good. Several sandwiches I would like to try. Place was full on Thursday night for trivia night which was quite fun.
(3)
Sarah D.
This was the first pizza place I tried on Bardstown Road and I thought it was great. Then I tried others...I don't blame them for trying but unfortunately Bardstown Road is saturated with great pizza and their pizza is just "good". If it were somewhere else it would probably get better ratings. I do like the fact they have a large outdoor seating area though. None of this is really new news but I thought I'd say my piece.
(2)
Andrew M.
Both the bartender and my waiter were the most unprofessional staff I have ever seen. Not to mention the wings were burnt and the pizza was lukewarm. Avoid this place at all costs.
(1)
Beth M.
I'd agree with Jim G here, but go a little farther in saying, "nothing memorable." Don't go for the food or the service here but instead for the outdoor patio, pitchers of beer, and live music.
(2)
Joe S.
An incredibly average pizza joint. The menu is typical, not a very large selection. It is pretty cramped inside but they did have an area in the back for a large group. The outside patio offers a nice view of passerby's (mostly hipsters at this location) This is not a bad place, there are just so many better pizza places that should be considered first.
(2)
Mr And Mrs G.
Mr says... Mrs says... we tried this place because we just want to enjoy the outdoor. this location has an outdoor seating which helps with the ambiance of what bardstown dining is all about. as for the pizza, portions are humongous enough to go around. ingredients was over flowing and just plentiful. there's nothing spectacular with the pizza - just simple but good.
(3)
Jim G.
Not too bad, not too good. The indifferent service here doesn't hold well with so many other good pizza options nearby and I've long since moved on.
(3)
Eddie S.
The food is great but the service is deplorable. We were advised that it would take a longer than average time to receive our food because they were short-staffed. The bartender kind of acted like he didn't want us to be there.
(2)
Elizabeth C.
Terrible nonexistent service as usual. I walk here from my home and we used to come here all the time when it was under diff mgmt. there was a server named Tiffany back then and the rest of the former crew and they were great. Now as usual I'm only one of 2 tables and I've had to walk in from the patio and get all my drink runs and menu and they actually gave my table away the second time I went in. Food is awful too- they never put any sauce on pizza and last time I ordered a salad it actually had rotten lettuce , plus my husbands beer was totally flat. Highly DONT advise you eat or drink here!
(1)
Sarah C.
There are so many pizza joints in Louisville. And most of them are good, if you ask me. Bearno's is no different, and has been in Louisville for a long time. Bearno's has a simple idea for their pizza. Hand tossed thickness, normal sauce and cheese amounts and viola...pizza. They always seem to be consistent, which is key for me in choosing a pizza place in a city that has sooo many choices. The cheese bread is yummy! Probably my favorite thing on the menu. Sometimes i pick places based on not just the food. I love hanging out at this location of Bearno's because they have a nice front patio that is perfect for bardstown road watching. They also have a decent beer list and specials throughout the week concerning their full bar menu. The one downside is the bathroom. They do not spend their efforts in here, and thankfully it's worth going for other reasons. It could always be worse. And, they have karaoke nights here that seem pretty easy to tap into if you are interested. Lastly, do not forget to walk to the back patio and see all the space they have going on back there. Perfect secluded space for those times when you don't want to sit in the front. :)
(3)
Amanda C.
On a whim, I recently decided to check out Bearno's for the first time. I had a craving for pizza, but wanted to try something new. I went on a Monday evening, and when I got their with my friends the place was empty... Never a good sign. We settled on sharing their cheese bread and a large pizza. The cheese bread was great - cheesy, buttery, and full of unnecessary carbs. For the pizza we did half all meat and half of the Bearno's special (minus the mushrooms). Overall, the pizza was tasty. And they aren't messing around when they say "all meat". It was almost meat overload, but still enjoyable. They have lots of pizza competition around them, but it's worth checking out if you're in the Bardstown Rd. area. The restaurant is nestled back off the road near El Camino and across the street from The Bristol.
(3)
Bethany Z.
This used to be one of my favorite places. This is a nice little close to home place that is like my cheers bar. I USED to love Saturdays there. It's karaoke night. I love karaoke .... But it's not enough to keep me coming back when everything else sucks. The prices went up and the staff got worse. Last time I went they gave me a menu and then when a server never came to our table we were told the kitchen was closed. This is after we called ahead to make sure the kitchen was open and after they handed us menus. I feel like they aren't even trying anymore. I feel so let down. I used to go here as many as 3 times a week bc they treated me like family. Now the word is getting around and nobody even wants to drink a beer there even when it's the closest beer around. Smh ! they get two stars but only for the memories of years past!
(2)
Kevin M.
You know the kind of place where the wait staff knows who you are, and you feel comfortable just drinking and/or eating while playing trivia (or Last Call Trivia Family Feud) on a slow Wednesday night in a pizza place? You know the kind of place where, even though you aren't usually going to eat pizza on a Wednesday night, you go, because it's near your home, and in a great location? That's the kind of place the Bearno's Highlands was until recently. Apparently, according to our server, a new GM was hired to "turn the place around." They are certainly doing that. I don't mind the server not knowing all the beers in bottles available, even though after being told she DID have Woodchuck, remembering that she has stocked it earlier that day. I don't mind if a restaurant runs out of gluten free crust...but I do like to know that when we put the order in, and not 20 minutes later. I don't mind if the food comes out in two shifts...but I do mind when it comes out randomly over the course of 30 minutes. I also mind when the server doesn't make eye contact with the table as we desperately try and get our empty glasses refilled...something that never happened when the rock star server Tiffany Hermann ran the front of the house, bartending and keeping the inside rolling solo sometimes. I also mind when there are three server/bartenders, and two of them spend that time ignoring us chatting it up with their friends at the bar. I also mind that even after the first time being ignored, when some other members of our party are ready for another beverage they are still ignored. We will find another watering hole. There are lots of places for Wednesday night trivia, or we can do family feud trivia on another night. Or just go somewhere with our friends. Bearno's Highlands had a regular crowd who shuffled in on Wednesday nights, even with no sports on, and being surrounded by (and adjacent to) some of the best restaurants in the city. I think it's difficult to see how they will keep those regulars on any nights, if this is how the new GM thinks "turning a restaurant around" works.
(2)
Ana L.
Got sat down at 6:30pm, it took two hours to get a veggie pizza since they burned the first one. They ran out of tequila after the first round of margaritas on Cinco de Mayo, but went out for more. No olive oil or french fries either. The server was nice but the service was slow
(1)
Brian B.
So much potential with this place ... unfortunately, it's mostly unrealized. You couldn't ask for a better location, right in the middle of the Highlands. There's a big front patio and a stunningly large, two-tiered back deck that's basically ignored (and might be structurally unsound). The decor inside is very dated, with a 1970s basement vibe. Last fall, they hired a new manager who was focusing on improving the craft beer selection, and it was very promising for a while. But that didn't last long, and now the beer list is just mediocre at best both nights. So all you're really left with is the food, and while Bearno's may have its fans in town, it's nothing special in my book (especially with so many pizza options in this city) and is very overpriced. The last few times I've gone in here, there were only a handful of people in the restaurant. It's kind of sad, because this place really has potential to be so much better.
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Specialities
Takes Reservations : No Delivery : Yes Take-out : Yes Accepts Credit Cards : Yes Bike Parking : Yes Good for Kids : Yes Good for Groups : Yes Attire : Casual Ambience : Divey Noise Level : Loud Alcohol : Full Bar Outdoor Seating : Yes Wi-Fi : No Has TV : Yes Waiter Service : Yes Caters : No
Pizza is a famous Italian dish savored around the world. The entire credit for the popularity of Pizza in the United States goes to the chain of pizzerias all over the country. While the base and the texture of Pizza remains same across the globe, it's the toppings that differs from country to country. In the United States, you will find the top pizzerias serving pizzas with the toppings of mainly beef, bacon, chicken, ham, and sausage for the non-vegetarians. Other than these famous meat options, Pizzas with veg toppings such as mushrooms, pepperonis, garlic, tomatoes, spinach, etc. are also famous in most restaurants in the United States.
Irrespective of your locality, you will find a variety of different restaurants in your cities offering pizzas of all different types. Pizza is hot favorite among people of all ages in the United States. A large size pizza is enough to feed a family of 3 or 4 at large. Pizza is also the most preferred food whenever a group of friends is hanging out together. Pizza gained popularity in the United States after the American soldiers stationed in Italy returned from World War II.
Over the years, different pizzerias in the United States have developed their own respective regional variations. Pizza gained popularity as the iconic dish in the United States in the second half of the 20th century. Whether you prefer thin or thick crust pizza, you can find a pizza of your preference at the best pizza restaurants in your city.
Kathy V.
I haven't eaten here...but karaoke was fun and the bartenders were good. I like their outdoor patio! It will be much nicer once it *actually* gets nice, weather-wise here. I'd be back for drinks without putting up much of a fight.
(3)Sean L.
Crust is obviously frozen and factory made. It came out soggy and flavorless. Hardly any sauce. Veggies are fresh but the foundation of a good pizza simply isn't there. The beer is good, but it's not like they had to do much work to accomplish that feat. The location is fantastic and it's not even a bad place to drink but the pizza is terrible.
(2)Julie K.
Nice Folks & love the Super Large Family Size Salad that stuffed the 3 of us!!! Great drink specials too!! Definitely coming back... I recommend trying the Breckenridge vanilla porter. The snowflake decorations are cute at Christmas time too!!!
(4)Kristie T.
A large group of us went as an Anti-Valentine's day evening because we are all single. I didn't order food, but everyone around me did so I got to taste test the Mama Bearnos and the bbq chicken pizza. It was great. I was drinking the Bell's Smitten and it was very good also. I usually choose the Bearnos in Jeffersonville since I'm closer to that one, but this one was still just as good.
(4)Daphne A.
I'd had Bearno's by UofL a few times. Never my favorite pizza - just didn't care for the style. I would give those experiences a 2 star for sure. When my dad was in town this past weekend, he chose Bearno's. I couldn't say no, because my father NEVER chooses the place to eat. We obliged and we were at the Bardstown Rd location. I remembered someone mentioned on a thread on hear regarding pizza in Louisville and I'm ALWAYS searching for my absolute favorite style of pizza - lots of crumble sausage, lots of melted cheese ON TOP of the pizza, slightly sweet sauce and lots of spices. I wish there was a style of pizza I could refer to it as - but I can never find something similar (mom and pop places sometimes have it this style, or the former chain in Indy called Jack's did). Anyway, someone mentioned that Bearno's thin crust had cheese on top of the toppings, so that was my saving grace going to Bearno's. When we walked in, there wasn't a sole in sight. The warm Italian something-or-other smell that permeated the place was nice. They had the door open for the breeze to come in as it was a nice day. Server was pretty quick. Father ordered a Pizza Sub and his gf ordered a Stromboli Steak sandwich. Both reported that they enjoyed their sandwiches. Dad mentioned his Pizza Sub could have had more sauce. I did order a small thin crust with my favorite toppings. I was delighted that the cheese was on top of the toppings, but there was still something missing or just not exactly what I wanted out of it. However, I would def not be disappointed if my friends wanted Bearno's again, now that I know to order thin crust. Thats what bumps it to 3 for me. Thanks for the tip, fellow Yelper.
(3)Ekta S.
We went on a last minute impulse to eat a veggie pizza. Three of us shared a medium veggie pizza, and got exactly what we asked for. Warm fresh pizza served quite quickly. Friendly servers, fun crowd cheering on the cards vs cats game and live music. What else can I ask for? Prized just about ok too.
(4)Matt R.
Uninspiring. Yeah, it's better than the chains. I'd also say that if you get one of the pies loaded with toppings, it's not so bad. But I've tried Bearnos several times, and each time I wonder why I'm not eating Papalino's or Mozza Pi. The crust is very thin and without texture or style and it can get a little soggy. The other ingredients don't really make up for these shortcomings. And it's cut into undignified little squares. Perfectly edible little squares. But the real killer is that there are several clearly better pizza options within walking distance. And while pizza comes in all types of culinary styles, Bearnos has perfected none of them.
(2)Kevin M.
If I was rating on service 1 star, if I was rating on the Mama Bearno's pizza 5 star. They always seem to struggle with service at this location ( someone called in or was a no show) but they always seem to have better pizza than the other Bearno's. I've had pretty much every one of the better pizzas in town over the past few months. I can't remember one any better than this one. Papalino's and Loui Louis in J-Town were close.
(3)Richard F.
Bearno's pizza is as good as it gets. I enjoy getting a tossed salad with ranch dressing and a large jalapeño cheese pizza. That with a large tea and I'm in heaven. I've tried most everything on the menu and there really isn't anything that's not good. If you like pizza, you'll love Bearno's
(5)Herman P.
We decided to go to the actual restaurant with family; overall the food we ordered , 16 inch and 10 inch pizza , pisghetti and meatballs; total bill $50 plus 20% tip( don't blame server for mediocre food) We decided we are done with this restaurant.
(2)Zain K.
The pizza didn't look compelling, so I ordered a hot chicken breast sandwich ($9). The chicken was dry and over-salted, the cheese was chewy (not in a good way), and the mushrooms and peppers I paid an extra $1.50 for were scant. For nine times the price of a McChicken, I expected much better (I'm not sure when I started using the McChicken as a benchmark for anything). Also, my beer was flat and my friend's wine had gone bad.
(1)Ian J.
The pizza here is delicious!!! You may have to eat it with a fork and knife, but it's worth it. The place has a bad rap, but it's under new management. Vince, the new manager is amazing, and Chase took very good care of us. We will definitely be back!!!
(5)Kevin S.
Came here for the Zombie Walk, Yelp was holding an event here (thinking if Yelp thinks it's worthy to hold an event, is MUST be good!) nope. I had a Stromboli sandwich that had the same flavor and appearance as a White Castle slider with a poor representation of marinara sauce. The service was...meh, some of the staff were great others were flat out rude. At least I can say I tried it.
(2)Jack B.
Went here with two friends and we ordered a meat lover's pizza (that may not be the official name). We were shocked to find the pizza absolutely covered in sausage without a balance of other meats. It was more sausage than I've ever seen on anything in my life--like a weird practical joke or something. We brushed lots and lots of sausage off onto our plates (it was in crumbly balls that didn't stay on the pizza anyway) and it was still way too much sausage. We still jokingly refer to it as "meat mountain." Ugh. I'm not going back.
(2)Terry M.
Had the veggie pizza,was surprisingly good. Several sandwiches I would like to try. Place was full on Thursday night for trivia night which was quite fun.
(3)Sarah D.
This was the first pizza place I tried on Bardstown Road and I thought it was great. Then I tried others...I don't blame them for trying but unfortunately Bardstown Road is saturated with great pizza and their pizza is just "good". If it were somewhere else it would probably get better ratings. I do like the fact they have a large outdoor seating area though. None of this is really new news but I thought I'd say my piece.
(2)Andrew M.
Both the bartender and my waiter were the most unprofessional staff I have ever seen. Not to mention the wings were burnt and the pizza was lukewarm. Avoid this place at all costs.
(1)Beth M.
I'd agree with Jim G here, but go a little farther in saying, "nothing memorable." Don't go for the food or the service here but instead for the outdoor patio, pitchers of beer, and live music.
(2)Joe S.
An incredibly average pizza joint. The menu is typical, not a very large selection. It is pretty cramped inside but they did have an area in the back for a large group. The outside patio offers a nice view of passerby's (mostly hipsters at this location) This is not a bad place, there are just so many better pizza places that should be considered first.
(2)Mr And Mrs G.
Mr says... Mrs says... we tried this place because we just want to enjoy the outdoor. this location has an outdoor seating which helps with the ambiance of what bardstown dining is all about. as for the pizza, portions are humongous enough to go around. ingredients was over flowing and just plentiful. there's nothing spectacular with the pizza - just simple but good.
(3)Jim G.
Not too bad, not too good. The indifferent service here doesn't hold well with so many other good pizza options nearby and I've long since moved on.
(3)Eddie S.
The food is great but the service is deplorable. We were advised that it would take a longer than average time to receive our food because they were short-staffed. The bartender kind of acted like he didn't want us to be there.
(2)Elizabeth C.
Terrible nonexistent service as usual. I walk here from my home and we used to come here all the time when it was under diff mgmt. there was a server named Tiffany back then and the rest of the former crew and they were great. Now as usual I'm only one of 2 tables and I've had to walk in from the patio and get all my drink runs and menu and they actually gave my table away the second time I went in. Food is awful too- they never put any sauce on pizza and last time I ordered a salad it actually had rotten lettuce , plus my husbands beer was totally flat. Highly DONT advise you eat or drink here!
(1)Sarah C.
There are so many pizza joints in Louisville. And most of them are good, if you ask me. Bearno's is no different, and has been in Louisville for a long time. Bearno's has a simple idea for their pizza. Hand tossed thickness, normal sauce and cheese amounts and viola...pizza. They always seem to be consistent, which is key for me in choosing a pizza place in a city that has sooo many choices. The cheese bread is yummy! Probably my favorite thing on the menu. Sometimes i pick places based on not just the food. I love hanging out at this location of Bearno's because they have a nice front patio that is perfect for bardstown road watching. They also have a decent beer list and specials throughout the week concerning their full bar menu. The one downside is the bathroom. They do not spend their efforts in here, and thankfully it's worth going for other reasons. It could always be worse. And, they have karaoke nights here that seem pretty easy to tap into if you are interested. Lastly, do not forget to walk to the back patio and see all the space they have going on back there. Perfect secluded space for those times when you don't want to sit in the front. :)
(3)Amanda C.
On a whim, I recently decided to check out Bearno's for the first time. I had a craving for pizza, but wanted to try something new. I went on a Monday evening, and when I got their with my friends the place was empty... Never a good sign. We settled on sharing their cheese bread and a large pizza. The cheese bread was great - cheesy, buttery, and full of unnecessary carbs. For the pizza we did half all meat and half of the Bearno's special (minus the mushrooms). Overall, the pizza was tasty. And they aren't messing around when they say "all meat". It was almost meat overload, but still enjoyable. They have lots of pizza competition around them, but it's worth checking out if you're in the Bardstown Rd. area. The restaurant is nestled back off the road near El Camino and across the street from The Bristol.
(3)Bethany Z.
This used to be one of my favorite places. This is a nice little close to home place that is like my cheers bar. I USED to love Saturdays there. It's karaoke night. I love karaoke .... But it's not enough to keep me coming back when everything else sucks. The prices went up and the staff got worse. Last time I went they gave me a menu and then when a server never came to our table we were told the kitchen was closed. This is after we called ahead to make sure the kitchen was open and after they handed us menus. I feel like they aren't even trying anymore. I feel so let down. I used to go here as many as 3 times a week bc they treated me like family. Now the word is getting around and nobody even wants to drink a beer there even when it's the closest beer around. Smh ! they get two stars but only for the memories of years past!
(2)Kevin M.
You know the kind of place where the wait staff knows who you are, and you feel comfortable just drinking and/or eating while playing trivia (or Last Call Trivia Family Feud) on a slow Wednesday night in a pizza place? You know the kind of place where, even though you aren't usually going to eat pizza on a Wednesday night, you go, because it's near your home, and in a great location? That's the kind of place the Bearno's Highlands was until recently. Apparently, according to our server, a new GM was hired to "turn the place around." They are certainly doing that. I don't mind the server not knowing all the beers in bottles available, even though after being told she DID have Woodchuck, remembering that she has stocked it earlier that day. I don't mind if a restaurant runs out of gluten free crust...but I do like to know that when we put the order in, and not 20 minutes later. I don't mind if the food comes out in two shifts...but I do mind when it comes out randomly over the course of 30 minutes. I also mind when the server doesn't make eye contact with the table as we desperately try and get our empty glasses refilled...something that never happened when the rock star server Tiffany Hermann ran the front of the house, bartending and keeping the inside rolling solo sometimes. I also mind when there are three server/bartenders, and two of them spend that time ignoring us chatting it up with their friends at the bar. I also mind that even after the first time being ignored, when some other members of our party are ready for another beverage they are still ignored. We will find another watering hole. There are lots of places for Wednesday night trivia, or we can do family feud trivia on another night. Or just go somewhere with our friends. Bearno's Highlands had a regular crowd who shuffled in on Wednesday nights, even with no sports on, and being surrounded by (and adjacent to) some of the best restaurants in the city. I think it's difficult to see how they will keep those regulars on any nights, if this is how the new GM thinks "turning a restaurant around" works.
(2)Ana L.
Got sat down at 6:30pm, it took two hours to get a veggie pizza since they burned the first one. They ran out of tequila after the first round of margaritas on Cinco de Mayo, but went out for more. No olive oil or french fries either. The server was nice but the service was slow
(1)Brian B.
So much potential with this place ... unfortunately, it's mostly unrealized. You couldn't ask for a better location, right in the middle of the Highlands. There's a big front patio and a stunningly large, two-tiered back deck that's basically ignored (and might be structurally unsound). The decor inside is very dated, with a 1970s basement vibe. Last fall, they hired a new manager who was focusing on improving the craft beer selection, and it was very promising for a while. But that didn't last long, and now the beer list is just mediocre at best both nights. So all you're really left with is the food, and while Bearno's may have its fans in town, it's nothing special in my book (especially with so many pizza options in this city) and is very overpriced. The last few times I've gone in here, there were only a handful of people in the restaurant. It's kind of sad, because this place really has potential to be so much better.
(1)