Veggie burger with wing sauce on it every time. Aroostook potato skins with no bacon, also delicious. Servers aren't always very attentive but it's a small price to pay for the great beer and food. We eat here every time we are in Brunswick!
(4)
G C.
Been here many times and it really is hit or miss. On my most recent visit it was 330ish on a Sunday afternoon so not busy at all. A friend and I each ordered pizzas. I ordered one of their signatures...the Primavera Pizza and my friend did create your own. Waitress was friendly and took our order right away. My pizza came in 30 mins and the waitress informed us that my friends pizza had stuck to the oven so they were starting over. So this meant I'd be chowing down while he watched on...always kinda awkward even among friends. I would've shared mine but it was a veggie type pizza and he wasn't into it. My pizza had a generous amount of veggies and was cooked well, although it was luke warm. My friends pizza came as I was about finished. He said it was good. A few tips for Joshua's: scrape down your pizza oven as there's always burnt chips coating the bottom of the pizza crust. You really should put up a sign that tells folks to seat themselves. I witnessed 3 different couples come in and just stand there wondering what to do without anyone speaking to them for a long time. One of them just gave up and left. All in all I would recommend this place, but I would add when it's good it's great, but I've been disappointed with the food before too. Like I said...hit or miss.
(3)
Laurie N.
Sorry San Francisco. Sorry Seattle. This is the place for chowder!!! We completely enjoyed our lunch here: caesar salad, New England Clam Chowder, Lobster Stew...and local brews: Geary's Hampshire Ale and Geary's Seasonal Ale. We enjoyed every taste of all of it, plus the staff is fabulous! Thanks so much!!!
(5)
Krystle T.
Waited 20 minutes on a Sunday evening and the place was dead and no one waited on us or even took a drink order even though several waitresses were sitting around. We frequent this place often, but will not be going there any more. We ended up leaving and eating at Sea Dogs down the road where we were waited on in under a minute.
(1)
Jennifer F.
Stopped in here for a beer or 2. Bartender was super nice, the locals were as well. They have a good mix of local "Maine" beers and the norm. Great location and the food smelled good. Pool tables in the back which topped off the location. If I lived in town I could easily see myself coming in here on a regular basis.
(4)
David J.
Joshua's is a local tavern with nice atmosphere and good pizza. They are predominately pub food, and I have ordered many items off the menu, and never have been disappointed. This is a tavern on the first floor, and restaurant upstairs. I cannot review upstairs, I have only ever eaten in the tavern area below. First the beer selection is good, well priced, and pint sized. The drinks are a tad strong. I like to taste the flavor that all the components mixed together produce. If I want to order a straight whisky, I would do that. But overall, most people would not complain about that. In other words, you get your moneys worth. The service can be prompt, although the last few times it took a considerably long time just to get the servers attention, and then my food took almost an hour. Took twenty minutes to get beer, but this usually isn't the norm. But a few times of neglect does not ruin all the other times. Their pizza is good. Probably best in Brunswick. Friday and Saturday nights they can be busy after nine with many locals, so if you want a bar hangout, Joshua's is the place. I would not hesitate to take a large party in for dinner. Free popcorn always popping to soak up the beer, and games are usually shown on the television. There are two pool tables, a working fireplace, and some video games, along with an outdoor patio. Like I said before, I cannot rate the restaurant, this is only for the downstairs tavern. Overall we continue to go there. Good spot. They stay a 3 star because service can be very spotty. Especially on nights when they are dead. Those seem to be their worst.
(3)
John S.
I've now been here 3 or 4 times. The food is decent. Nothing particularly offensive and nothing that gets you excited. However, I have been there during the lunch hour as well as at night for drinks. The first time I was there for lunch, we waited quite a long time for service. I don't usually like passing judgment after one time at a place since the wait staff could have been over-burdened. However, having been there a few times at night for drinks, I have to say that this place has a consistently bad staff and management. Especially the bald-headed monkeys that they have managing the door at night. They are rude and ignorant. I suppose if you grunt, they'll understand you.
(1)
Christopher S.
Little less than expected I was not overly impressed not bad just not great seems a but dated
(2)
Jason B.
Love the free popcorn to get started with while we perused the menu.. Bacon cheeseburger was cooked medium as requested and tasted very good. French fries were good. Great beer selection. Waitress was friendly but could definitely have been more attentive.
(4)
Jenny P.
I stopped in for a beer and a bite to eat on a Wednesday evening. They were kind of busy, but not at all slammed. I sat at a bar table for about 10 minutes while at least two servers walked by me several times without even saying hello or making eye contact. I finally moved to an empty bar seat, hoping for better service. I sat at the bar for another five minutes, and overheard another patron complain that he never got his food that he ordered an hour and a half ago. Then, a guy came up to the bar right next to me. The bartender apparently knew him, because she called him by name, and went to pour his beer. So I left and went to Pedro O'Hara's down the street, where I got great food and great service. Won't go back to Joshua's. Will go back to Pedro's.
(1)
Kelly B.
food was ok, nothing amazing, although I only ate some bar food. Drinks were made terribly though so that was a little upsetting. I couldn't finish my drink. Bar tender was a very sweet girl, friendly and made it completely worth the trip. I would love to try again and actually experience it!
(3)
Gary H.
The food was excellent but service brings from a 4 to a 3. The place is named after Civil War General and hero of the Battle of Gettysburg, Joshua Chamberlain. I had the "Gettysburger" served on a Cibatta bun. Very good but they do not serve their burgers with lettuce or tomatoes. You have to request them.
(3)
Ashley L.
We absolutely love it here! They have a very large menu with a variety of appetizers, seafood, salads, burgers & sandwiches and pizzas. There are about 15 taps at the bar and there is ample seating throughout the restaurant. A warm, cozy fireplace is crackling during the winter season and there are pool tables and foosball. The staff has always been friendly whenever we go in - this is definitely 'our place'. Prices are on the low-end of the $11-$30 range.
(5)
Jim B.
In keeping with the "anti-Valentine's Day" motif that some Yelpers opted for, me and my honey wanted a simple, non-pretentious place to grab a bite after a very rugged week of working for 'da man. Actually, I work for myself, but 'da man still controls my giggery. Basically, it was Friday night, we had been up since 5:00 am to shovel heavy, wet snow, and then my better half spent the day trudging around to customers in the snow. I spent most of my day flitting between pitches and finishing digging out--no cooking for us. Our go-to seafood place in Brunsiwck was closed, so we were on the fence where to go for drinks, a decent dinner, and one that wouldn't break the bank--also one where there weren't people in their first 6 months of a relationship gushing all over one another (we're in year #31 of marriage--still in love, but you get the picture). I suggested Joshua's and my lady said "yes" with such enthusiasm that I knew were were headed to the right place. Nothing about our time there changed my initial inclination. Basically, Joshua's is the kind of local place where you feel right at home at, whether you come there regularly, or occasionally, like us. I mean, when you pull up and see a four-wheel drive pick-up, parked sideways out front with a big ass bail of hay in the back, you know you won't have pretentiousness pushed in your face. We kept is simple; my wife went with the gyro and I opted for the fried haddock sandwich. Both came with Joshua's fries, which are stellar. We chose chowder as an appetizer. I went with the New England clam variety and my date had the Casco Bay seafood chowder. Hers was much better than mine. The clam chowder was too salty, the broth a bit watery, and the clams a bit tough. The seafood chowder was much more flavorful, with equal amounts of seafood (fish, scallops, shrimp and crabmeat). Joshua's has a large selection of beers, 21 brews featured, and I went with the Sam Adam's seasonal. Miss Mary went the liquor route, a Tanqueray and Tonic. As other reviewers have noted, you get your money's worth with mixed drinks--no watered down and over-priced drinks here. $6 mixed drinks with plenty of alcohol are a bargain; the beers on tap were $4. Both the gyro and haddock sandwich were excellent. We ate in the back dining area, off the tavern. I hadn't eaten in this section and we both liked it. The main bar area is always fun, however. Plus, you get free popcorn, too. Is Joshua's the fanciest place in town? No, but if you are looking for a place to grab a drink, with a varied menu, with a fun, pub-style atmosphere, and a place frequented by a cross-section of locals and the college crowd, then you can't go wrong with a visit to Joshua's. And if you are out later than usual in Brunswick, it's one of the few that's open after a late movie or a trip to the Brunswick Music Theater.
(4)
Shannon C.
Absolutely terrible service. There's so many great places in Brunswick that display genuine Maine hospitality that I don't see why I would ever come back here.
(1)
Mattie C.
I have a special place in my heart for Joshua's from my college days. I just have always had such a good time when I go there. One great and unique thing they have is the free popcorn - they have a cute little popcorn popper in the front room with cardboard holders that you can bring to your table - which I find delicious and amazing. Last time we were there they had Allagash Black on tap - one of my favorite beers and actually kind of dangerous that they happened to have it for FREE at the event I went to. I just can't stop drinking at it. Other than drunk happy college kids, there are a lot of regulars here. I remember from my college days this guy, a "townie" that always hung out around the main bar area. When the fiance and I came for our 5-year reunion, the first person I saw when we entered the bar? That guy. It seems they have a lot of loyal customers. Other than the popcorn, the food is just OK. And other than the Allagash Black, the beer is just OK. But they have a back game area, a nice bar area, a little lit patio place and friendly staff. I'll always feel at home and a little nostalgic when I come here and I love the place. Yay Joshua's!
(4)
Trevor G.
Unfortunately, the highlight of Joshua's was their freshly brewed iced tea. It's pretty difficult to screw up iced tea-- though many places manage to do so. Joshua's knew what they were doing with their iced tea. Server was attentive; albeit he was a bit slow. Our food arrived at the table a bit slower than it needed to-- the food was cold. The food was fairly lackluster, except for the haddock sandwich-- which was nicely breaded and not over-fried. Ironically, this was the cheapest entree for our table. The fried Maine shrimp resembled popcorn shrimp from the freezer (and, was just as delicious as you might guess). The rest of the food, including the pizza, was unremarkable. Prices are far too high for the quality of the food and service-- you can do much better elsewhere. Skip Joshua's.
(2)
Katie C.
If you're looking for a quick meal in Brunswick, Joshua's Tavern is an unexpectedly good place to grab a bite to eat and have a cheap drink. While their crab stuffed mushrooms were nothing to write home about (I was visiting after all!), the steak and cheese wrap was awesome, as was their $4 Allagash. And despite the outdoor deck upstairs being closed, we had a great time eating inside.
(3)
Frank H.
Not the Best by any means. You can find better places in Brunswick.
(1)
Ryne C.
First - there is no wifi here. Don't know why it says "free." I really enjoyed the atmosphere at this place, I went for a quick dinner after work on a Thursday. The bartender was friendly and the service was great. The people, all locals, were very welcoming to an obvious outsiders. However, my food was disappointing. I had a steak and baked potato, the steak had no seasoning and was a little overcooked for a medium rare as requested. The baked potato was also over cooked and dry. They had a lot of drafts and they were all $4, I want to eat here again before I make a final decision on the quality of the food. I really wanted to love this place, but in the end, its only worth three stars for now.
(3)
Tom D.
I like to sit on decks to have some food and drinks and this place has a nice deck. Its even got a nice cover on it so you won't get a sun burn or rained on.The menu has a variety of seafood to steaks and burgers. They have plenty of space (on the deck) or inside with two floors. In the bar they have a great selection of beers on tap. I've been coming here for years and have always enjoyed it.
Boyfriend and I stopped in here for a late lunch after a day of wandering around the islands and the Bowdoin College area. We were chilled and hungry, so we were looking for a good portion of tasty, hot food, and if we managed to sneak in some good service along the way, then fine! Well... we didn't get what we were looking for, unfortunately. Boyfriend was driving and since I know the area he asked me to fire up my Yelp app and see what I could find that wasn't too expensive but seemed to have good reviews. When we got into the tavern, we were met by a waitress who said "eh, sit anywhere, I guess," so Boyfriend chose a table near the door. We sat side-by-side, but with our backs to the rest of the restaurant. The tavern was nearly empty but for one other table and a handful of folks at the bar. It took probably ten minutes for a waitress to come offer us menus and take our drink order. Twenty minutes later, another waitress came over to ask us what we wanted to drink. We told her we had already ordered drinks (a glass of water and a Coke are not that hard), and she asked us what we wanted anyway, so we told her. Waitress #1 came over eventually with our drinks, and she took our order. The food took forever to come, and by that point, we had both put our hoodies back on because we were cold. Our appetizer (generic, frozen-then-baked fried mozzarella sticks) arrived with a HUGE amount of sauce in relation to the six slim sticks. Said sauce was cold. Boyfriend ordered the pulled pork sandwich with sweet potato fries. The pork in his sandwich was dry and made almost without sauce. There was a cup of sauce on the side, but I feel like one shouldn't have to dip one's sandwich meat into a cup of goo. When I was ordering, I felt like having a burger. There was one on the menu that looked terrific- it said there was a portobello mushroom, provolone cheese, and a few other yummy-sounding things on, and it was listed with the burgers and the header that all burgers were a 5oz patty. Well, the waitress told me that that was just a mushroom with all the toppings on it, no meat. Okay, list it as a freakin' veggie burger!! So I asked if this sandwich could be made with a beef patty plus all the listed stuff. She said she would check and let me know, but I gave her an alternate just in case. When my burger finally came, it was the alternate. Okay, fine, but what happened to letting me know that I wasn't going to get what I had originally asked for? Really awful service, actually, and mediocre food served in a cheesy place? I won't be back.
(2)
Whiskey C.
Ok we gave it another go. We ate at the bar in the back, it was quieter and we were able to chat with the bartender. She got me delightfully toasted with a marshmallow and rootbeer concoction. The food was good this time. Perhaps the scallop fiasco was just a one-off?
(3)
Emilie B.
Went Saturday night for a couple of beers and a light snack. Ended up getting a pitcher of Sam Summer (only $14 for about 5 beers, very surprised by that) and some fries. The fries were nice and crispy but not much ease in the appetizers got our attention. Nice waitress though she was trying to leave the entire time.
(3)
Ali A.
This place was pretty cute, very friendly, nice staff. The location is very easy to get to and parking isn't too bad. It was affordable and quick! The food was good :)
(3)
Sarah C.
Its as if Cheers came to Maine. Joshua's is an establishment! And if you are a regular you can have your own mug on the wall. How cool is that? I wonder if you can have a monthly tab, too?! This is an official Bowdoin hang out and a venue where you will meet some interesting characters
(5)
Marissa T.
Lobster roll had a lot of meat, seafood chowder was really tasty. Would definitely go back again
(4)
Moe C.
Food was badly over cooked and small portions for the price. More bar than restaurant.
(1)
Eric M.
Driving from Portland to Camden, Joshua's was a welcome respite of good food after having traveled from San Francisco and getting delay for two and a half hours in New York. It was late and we didn't have high hopes for much more than a burger. Fortunately, we found a nice tavern with decent food. I had a lobster roll which was piled high with big chunks of lobster and served with a pickle and fries. Maybe a bit on the pricey side at $17, but overall a good experience.
(4)
Steff D.
Joshua's. Oh, Joshua's. How many lovely nights did we spend together in my youth that I vaguely remember? In all seriousness, it always surprises people when I tell them how much I LOVE Joshua's. I am not a "bar" or "pub" kinda girl, but I absolutely ADORE this place. The Jack and Cokes are some of the best in the state (my friend from England was astonished at how much Jack they put in the drinks for the little money we paid for them), the baskets of French fries might be some of the best around (I'm having a mouthgasm thinking about them now - how do they make their French fries so . . . French and fried and awesome?!), the pizza's are surprisingly delicious, the local bands that play here are entertaining (interpret that however you want), and the atmosphere is good local fun regardless of when you go. Take it from a non-barfly: Joshua's is totally memorable (or not, if you've had one too many Jack and Coke's).
(4)
Liz L.
Stopped by Joshua's while vacationing in the area recently for some cocktails. Waitress was very friendly and accomodating to everyone at her full bar. Seems like its a good spot for regulars and just a chill place to go and play pool and have some cocktails. We did end up ordering pizza which had italian seasoning all over the top of the pizza which over powered the rest of the ingredients. Had left overs that we chose not to eat since it just wasnt that good. I would definetly go back to sit at the bar and have some cocktails!
(3)
Robbie R.
I've only been to Joshua's twice, but I had a good time both times... so that's cool. The first time i went with a lady-friend from elementary school. We had a good time shootin the proverbial shit and also seeing lots of people from middle school stream through the doors. Gotta love making awkward conversation with people you haven't seen in 8 or so years! I got a couple Blue Moons and they were only like $4 apiece or so. Not too shabby. The last time was during the basketball playoffs. I went with an uncle, two cousins, and my brother. My bro decided to handle all the pitchers, which was mighty generous. One cousin handled buying all the appetizers. Their wings were decent. Their nachos were QUITE good. I was impressed, as all the places down here in Boston I've had nachos from were not as appealing. Good on ya, Joshua. They also have a popcorn machine. Believe me when I tell you I helped myself to many a serving of the stuff. The popcorn was delish. And free. Gotta love free. The waitress was also great. Very attentive, crackin jokes, and accomodated our need of the TV being on the Celtics and not the Sox for the night. One other thing that maybe keeps this place from gettin the 5-star: They really need to switch the tube TV's over to the HD. Tube just isn't gonna cut it in bars anymore. Not for me at least.
(4)
Sophia A.
Good drinks, however, strong; plenty of space; 2 full bars; awesome blues band one of the nights I was there; parking was a lil difficult to attain. The first time I went I was accompanying my best friend as she met a gentlemen for the first time. It was difficult to converse over the din but that seemed to be fine with my friend as she was too nervous to say much...lol I've never eaten at the restaurant so I cannot comment about that aspect of the place.
(4)
David M.
This is a review of the bar not the restaurant. This place is horrible. I have seen a bartender pour a glass of wine for a table, then stick his fingers in it to fish something out, then put it on the servers tray. It gets very busy on the weekends and the bars are always understaffed so it takes forever to get a drink. There are never any drink specials. The layout is bad, there are tables along side the bar which creates a bottle neck for getting from the door and music to the pool tables and smoking area. The live music is always bad but no one goes there for the music anyway. There is a raised hearth where the owner, a bouncer, and sometimes a Brunswick cop stand perched in big brother like fashion. The smoking area overlooks main st so you see up it a ways which is nice. Or was. Now there is a huge white fence around it so you can't see anything. I want to steal the sweet civil war painting on the wall by the bathroom but I am pretty sure there is a camera there.
(1)
Lindsey J.
I've only been to the tavern downstairs but there is a restaurant upstairs with a more extensive menu and less casual service. The tavern has a LOT of local beers on tap, but the pub food is limted mainly to appetizers and burgers but still very good. It can get crowded and busy (which means service is slow) but on off hours the service is jack-flash and you can get in and out in a little over 30 minutes. There are pool tables on the back that are always in use, day or night. The clientele ranges between college age kids to lobstermen to the business set, so just about anyone should feel comfortable here. It's a great casual place to have a beer with a few friends.
Takes Reservations : No Delivery : No Take-out : Yes Accepts Credit Cards : Yes Good For : Lunch, Late Night Parking : Street Bike Parking : Yes Good for Kids : Yes Good for Groups : Yes Attire : Casual Ambience : Casual Noise Level : Average Alcohol : Full Bar Outdoor Seating : Yes Wi-Fi : Free Has TV : Yes Waiter Service : Yes Caters : No
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EC C.
Veggie burger with wing sauce on it every time. Aroostook potato skins with no bacon, also delicious. Servers aren't always very attentive but it's a small price to pay for the great beer and food. We eat here every time we are in Brunswick!
(4)G C.
Been here many times and it really is hit or miss. On my most recent visit it was 330ish on a Sunday afternoon so not busy at all. A friend and I each ordered pizzas. I ordered one of their signatures...the Primavera Pizza and my friend did create your own. Waitress was friendly and took our order right away. My pizza came in 30 mins and the waitress informed us that my friends pizza had stuck to the oven so they were starting over. So this meant I'd be chowing down while he watched on...always kinda awkward even among friends. I would've shared mine but it was a veggie type pizza and he wasn't into it. My pizza had a generous amount of veggies and was cooked well, although it was luke warm. My friends pizza came as I was about finished. He said it was good. A few tips for Joshua's: scrape down your pizza oven as there's always burnt chips coating the bottom of the pizza crust. You really should put up a sign that tells folks to seat themselves. I witnessed 3 different couples come in and just stand there wondering what to do without anyone speaking to them for a long time. One of them just gave up and left. All in all I would recommend this place, but I would add when it's good it's great, but I've been disappointed with the food before too. Like I said...hit or miss.
(3)Laurie N.
Sorry San Francisco. Sorry Seattle. This is the place for chowder!!! We completely enjoyed our lunch here: caesar salad, New England Clam Chowder, Lobster Stew...and local brews: Geary's Hampshire Ale and Geary's Seasonal Ale. We enjoyed every taste of all of it, plus the staff is fabulous! Thanks so much!!!
(5)Krystle T.
Waited 20 minutes on a Sunday evening and the place was dead and no one waited on us or even took a drink order even though several waitresses were sitting around. We frequent this place often, but will not be going there any more. We ended up leaving and eating at Sea Dogs down the road where we were waited on in under a minute.
(1)Jennifer F.
Stopped in here for a beer or 2. Bartender was super nice, the locals were as well. They have a good mix of local "Maine" beers and the norm. Great location and the food smelled good. Pool tables in the back which topped off the location. If I lived in town I could easily see myself coming in here on a regular basis.
(4)David J.
Joshua's is a local tavern with nice atmosphere and good pizza. They are predominately pub food, and I have ordered many items off the menu, and never have been disappointed. This is a tavern on the first floor, and restaurant upstairs. I cannot review upstairs, I have only ever eaten in the tavern area below. First the beer selection is good, well priced, and pint sized. The drinks are a tad strong. I like to taste the flavor that all the components mixed together produce. If I want to order a straight whisky, I would do that. But overall, most people would not complain about that. In other words, you get your moneys worth. The service can be prompt, although the last few times it took a considerably long time just to get the servers attention, and then my food took almost an hour. Took twenty minutes to get beer, but this usually isn't the norm. But a few times of neglect does not ruin all the other times. Their pizza is good. Probably best in Brunswick. Friday and Saturday nights they can be busy after nine with many locals, so if you want a bar hangout, Joshua's is the place. I would not hesitate to take a large party in for dinner. Free popcorn always popping to soak up the beer, and games are usually shown on the television. There are two pool tables, a working fireplace, and some video games, along with an outdoor patio. Like I said before, I cannot rate the restaurant, this is only for the downstairs tavern. Overall we continue to go there. Good spot. They stay a 3 star because service can be very spotty. Especially on nights when they are dead. Those seem to be their worst.
(3)John S.
I've now been here 3 or 4 times. The food is decent. Nothing particularly offensive and nothing that gets you excited. However, I have been there during the lunch hour as well as at night for drinks. The first time I was there for lunch, we waited quite a long time for service. I don't usually like passing judgment after one time at a place since the wait staff could have been over-burdened. However, having been there a few times at night for drinks, I have to say that this place has a consistently bad staff and management. Especially the bald-headed monkeys that they have managing the door at night. They are rude and ignorant. I suppose if you grunt, they'll understand you.
(1)Christopher S.
Little less than expected I was not overly impressed not bad just not great seems a but dated
(2)Jason B.
Love the free popcorn to get started with while we perused the menu.. Bacon cheeseburger was cooked medium as requested and tasted very good. French fries were good. Great beer selection. Waitress was friendly but could definitely have been more attentive.
(4)Jenny P.
I stopped in for a beer and a bite to eat on a Wednesday evening. They were kind of busy, but not at all slammed. I sat at a bar table for about 10 minutes while at least two servers walked by me several times without even saying hello or making eye contact. I finally moved to an empty bar seat, hoping for better service. I sat at the bar for another five minutes, and overheard another patron complain that he never got his food that he ordered an hour and a half ago. Then, a guy came up to the bar right next to me. The bartender apparently knew him, because she called him by name, and went to pour his beer. So I left and went to Pedro O'Hara's down the street, where I got great food and great service. Won't go back to Joshua's. Will go back to Pedro's.
(1)Kelly B.
food was ok, nothing amazing, although I only ate some bar food. Drinks were made terribly though so that was a little upsetting. I couldn't finish my drink. Bar tender was a very sweet girl, friendly and made it completely worth the trip. I would love to try again and actually experience it!
(3)Gary H.
The food was excellent but service brings from a 4 to a 3. The place is named after Civil War General and hero of the Battle of Gettysburg, Joshua Chamberlain. I had the "Gettysburger" served on a Cibatta bun. Very good but they do not serve their burgers with lettuce or tomatoes. You have to request them.
(3)Ashley L.
We absolutely love it here! They have a very large menu with a variety of appetizers, seafood, salads, burgers & sandwiches and pizzas. There are about 15 taps at the bar and there is ample seating throughout the restaurant. A warm, cozy fireplace is crackling during the winter season and there are pool tables and foosball. The staff has always been friendly whenever we go in - this is definitely 'our place'. Prices are on the low-end of the $11-$30 range.
(5)Jim B.
In keeping with the "anti-Valentine's Day" motif that some Yelpers opted for, me and my honey wanted a simple, non-pretentious place to grab a bite after a very rugged week of working for 'da man. Actually, I work for myself, but 'da man still controls my giggery. Basically, it was Friday night, we had been up since 5:00 am to shovel heavy, wet snow, and then my better half spent the day trudging around to customers in the snow. I spent most of my day flitting between pitches and finishing digging out--no cooking for us. Our go-to seafood place in Brunsiwck was closed, so we were on the fence where to go for drinks, a decent dinner, and one that wouldn't break the bank--also one where there weren't people in their first 6 months of a relationship gushing all over one another (we're in year #31 of marriage--still in love, but you get the picture). I suggested Joshua's and my lady said "yes" with such enthusiasm that I knew were were headed to the right place. Nothing about our time there changed my initial inclination. Basically, Joshua's is the kind of local place where you feel right at home at, whether you come there regularly, or occasionally, like us. I mean, when you pull up and see a four-wheel drive pick-up, parked sideways out front with a big ass bail of hay in the back, you know you won't have pretentiousness pushed in your face. We kept is simple; my wife went with the gyro and I opted for the fried haddock sandwich. Both came with Joshua's fries, which are stellar. We chose chowder as an appetizer. I went with the New England clam variety and my date had the Casco Bay seafood chowder. Hers was much better than mine. The clam chowder was too salty, the broth a bit watery, and the clams a bit tough. The seafood chowder was much more flavorful, with equal amounts of seafood (fish, scallops, shrimp and crabmeat). Joshua's has a large selection of beers, 21 brews featured, and I went with the Sam Adam's seasonal. Miss Mary went the liquor route, a Tanqueray and Tonic. As other reviewers have noted, you get your money's worth with mixed drinks--no watered down and over-priced drinks here. $6 mixed drinks with plenty of alcohol are a bargain; the beers on tap were $4. Both the gyro and haddock sandwich were excellent. We ate in the back dining area, off the tavern. I hadn't eaten in this section and we both liked it. The main bar area is always fun, however. Plus, you get free popcorn, too. Is Joshua's the fanciest place in town? No, but if you are looking for a place to grab a drink, with a varied menu, with a fun, pub-style atmosphere, and a place frequented by a cross-section of locals and the college crowd, then you can't go wrong with a visit to Joshua's. And if you are out later than usual in Brunswick, it's one of the few that's open after a late movie or a trip to the Brunswick Music Theater.
(4)Shannon C.
Absolutely terrible service. There's so many great places in Brunswick that display genuine Maine hospitality that I don't see why I would ever come back here.
(1)Mattie C.
I have a special place in my heart for Joshua's from my college days. I just have always had such a good time when I go there. One great and unique thing they have is the free popcorn - they have a cute little popcorn popper in the front room with cardboard holders that you can bring to your table - which I find delicious and amazing. Last time we were there they had Allagash Black on tap - one of my favorite beers and actually kind of dangerous that they happened to have it for FREE at the event I went to. I just can't stop drinking at it. Other than drunk happy college kids, there are a lot of regulars here. I remember from my college days this guy, a "townie" that always hung out around the main bar area. When the fiance and I came for our 5-year reunion, the first person I saw when we entered the bar? That guy. It seems they have a lot of loyal customers. Other than the popcorn, the food is just OK. And other than the Allagash Black, the beer is just OK. But they have a back game area, a nice bar area, a little lit patio place and friendly staff. I'll always feel at home and a little nostalgic when I come here and I love the place. Yay Joshua's!
(4)Trevor G.
Unfortunately, the highlight of Joshua's was their freshly brewed iced tea. It's pretty difficult to screw up iced tea-- though many places manage to do so. Joshua's knew what they were doing with their iced tea. Server was attentive; albeit he was a bit slow. Our food arrived at the table a bit slower than it needed to-- the food was cold. The food was fairly lackluster, except for the haddock sandwich-- which was nicely breaded and not over-fried. Ironically, this was the cheapest entree for our table. The fried Maine shrimp resembled popcorn shrimp from the freezer (and, was just as delicious as you might guess). The rest of the food, including the pizza, was unremarkable. Prices are far too high for the quality of the food and service-- you can do much better elsewhere. Skip Joshua's.
(2)Katie C.
If you're looking for a quick meal in Brunswick, Joshua's Tavern is an unexpectedly good place to grab a bite to eat and have a cheap drink. While their crab stuffed mushrooms were nothing to write home about (I was visiting after all!), the steak and cheese wrap was awesome, as was their $4 Allagash. And despite the outdoor deck upstairs being closed, we had a great time eating inside.
(3)Frank H.
Not the Best by any means. You can find better places in Brunswick.
(1)Ryne C.
First - there is no wifi here. Don't know why it says "free." I really enjoyed the atmosphere at this place, I went for a quick dinner after work on a Thursday. The bartender was friendly and the service was great. The people, all locals, were very welcoming to an obvious outsiders. However, my food was disappointing. I had a steak and baked potato, the steak had no seasoning and was a little overcooked for a medium rare as requested. The baked potato was also over cooked and dry. They had a lot of drafts and they were all $4, I want to eat here again before I make a final decision on the quality of the food. I really wanted to love this place, but in the end, its only worth three stars for now.
(3)Tom D.
I like to sit on decks to have some food and drinks and this place has a nice deck. Its even got a nice cover on it so you won't get a sun burn or rained on.The menu has a variety of seafood to steaks and burgers. They have plenty of space (on the deck) or inside with two floors. In the bar they have a great selection of beers on tap. I've been coming here for years and have always enjoyed it.
(5)David A.
Outstanding. Highly recommend Cajun chicken sandwich, crab roll, fries, onion rings. A jewel.
(5)Angela G.
Boyfriend and I stopped in here for a late lunch after a day of wandering around the islands and the Bowdoin College area. We were chilled and hungry, so we were looking for a good portion of tasty, hot food, and if we managed to sneak in some good service along the way, then fine! Well... we didn't get what we were looking for, unfortunately. Boyfriend was driving and since I know the area he asked me to fire up my Yelp app and see what I could find that wasn't too expensive but seemed to have good reviews. When we got into the tavern, we were met by a waitress who said "eh, sit anywhere, I guess," so Boyfriend chose a table near the door. We sat side-by-side, but with our backs to the rest of the restaurant. The tavern was nearly empty but for one other table and a handful of folks at the bar. It took probably ten minutes for a waitress to come offer us menus and take our drink order. Twenty minutes later, another waitress came over to ask us what we wanted to drink. We told her we had already ordered drinks (a glass of water and a Coke are not that hard), and she asked us what we wanted anyway, so we told her. Waitress #1 came over eventually with our drinks, and she took our order. The food took forever to come, and by that point, we had both put our hoodies back on because we were cold. Our appetizer (generic, frozen-then-baked fried mozzarella sticks) arrived with a HUGE amount of sauce in relation to the six slim sticks. Said sauce was cold. Boyfriend ordered the pulled pork sandwich with sweet potato fries. The pork in his sandwich was dry and made almost without sauce. There was a cup of sauce on the side, but I feel like one shouldn't have to dip one's sandwich meat into a cup of goo. When I was ordering, I felt like having a burger. There was one on the menu that looked terrific- it said there was a portobello mushroom, provolone cheese, and a few other yummy-sounding things on, and it was listed with the burgers and the header that all burgers were a 5oz patty. Well, the waitress told me that that was just a mushroom with all the toppings on it, no meat. Okay, list it as a freakin' veggie burger!! So I asked if this sandwich could be made with a beef patty plus all the listed stuff. She said she would check and let me know, but I gave her an alternate just in case. When my burger finally came, it was the alternate. Okay, fine, but what happened to letting me know that I wasn't going to get what I had originally asked for? Really awful service, actually, and mediocre food served in a cheesy place? I won't be back.
(2)Whiskey C.
Ok we gave it another go. We ate at the bar in the back, it was quieter and we were able to chat with the bartender. She got me delightfully toasted with a marshmallow and rootbeer concoction. The food was good this time. Perhaps the scallop fiasco was just a one-off?
(3)Emilie B.
Went Saturday night for a couple of beers and a light snack. Ended up getting a pitcher of Sam Summer (only $14 for about 5 beers, very surprised by that) and some fries. The fries were nice and crispy but not much ease in the appetizers got our attention. Nice waitress though she was trying to leave the entire time.
(3)Ali A.
This place was pretty cute, very friendly, nice staff. The location is very easy to get to and parking isn't too bad. It was affordable and quick! The food was good :)
(3)Sarah C.
Its as if Cheers came to Maine. Joshua's is an establishment! And if you are a regular you can have your own mug on the wall. How cool is that? I wonder if you can have a monthly tab, too?! This is an official Bowdoin hang out and a venue where you will meet some interesting characters
(5)Marissa T.
Lobster roll had a lot of meat, seafood chowder was really tasty. Would definitely go back again
(4)Moe C.
Food was badly over cooked and small portions for the price. More bar than restaurant.
(1)Eric M.
Driving from Portland to Camden, Joshua's was a welcome respite of good food after having traveled from San Francisco and getting delay for two and a half hours in New York. It was late and we didn't have high hopes for much more than a burger. Fortunately, we found a nice tavern with decent food. I had a lobster roll which was piled high with big chunks of lobster and served with a pickle and fries. Maybe a bit on the pricey side at $17, but overall a good experience.
(4)Steff D.
Joshua's. Oh, Joshua's. How many lovely nights did we spend together in my youth that I vaguely remember? In all seriousness, it always surprises people when I tell them how much I LOVE Joshua's. I am not a "bar" or "pub" kinda girl, but I absolutely ADORE this place. The Jack and Cokes are some of the best in the state (my friend from England was astonished at how much Jack they put in the drinks for the little money we paid for them), the baskets of French fries might be some of the best around (I'm having a mouthgasm thinking about them now - how do they make their French fries so . . . French and fried and awesome?!), the pizza's are surprisingly delicious, the local bands that play here are entertaining (interpret that however you want), and the atmosphere is good local fun regardless of when you go. Take it from a non-barfly: Joshua's is totally memorable (or not, if you've had one too many Jack and Coke's).
(4)Liz L.
Stopped by Joshua's while vacationing in the area recently for some cocktails. Waitress was very friendly and accomodating to everyone at her full bar. Seems like its a good spot for regulars and just a chill place to go and play pool and have some cocktails. We did end up ordering pizza which had italian seasoning all over the top of the pizza which over powered the rest of the ingredients. Had left overs that we chose not to eat since it just wasnt that good. I would definetly go back to sit at the bar and have some cocktails!
(3)Robbie R.
I've only been to Joshua's twice, but I had a good time both times... so that's cool. The first time i went with a lady-friend from elementary school. We had a good time shootin the proverbial shit and also seeing lots of people from middle school stream through the doors. Gotta love making awkward conversation with people you haven't seen in 8 or so years! I got a couple Blue Moons and they were only like $4 apiece or so. Not too shabby. The last time was during the basketball playoffs. I went with an uncle, two cousins, and my brother. My bro decided to handle all the pitchers, which was mighty generous. One cousin handled buying all the appetizers. Their wings were decent. Their nachos were QUITE good. I was impressed, as all the places down here in Boston I've had nachos from were not as appealing. Good on ya, Joshua. They also have a popcorn machine. Believe me when I tell you I helped myself to many a serving of the stuff. The popcorn was delish. And free. Gotta love free. The waitress was also great. Very attentive, crackin jokes, and accomodated our need of the TV being on the Celtics and not the Sox for the night. One other thing that maybe keeps this place from gettin the 5-star: They really need to switch the tube TV's over to the HD. Tube just isn't gonna cut it in bars anymore. Not for me at least.
(4)Sophia A.
Good drinks, however, strong; plenty of space; 2 full bars; awesome blues band one of the nights I was there; parking was a lil difficult to attain. The first time I went I was accompanying my best friend as she met a gentlemen for the first time. It was difficult to converse over the din but that seemed to be fine with my friend as she was too nervous to say much...lol I've never eaten at the restaurant so I cannot comment about that aspect of the place.
(4)David M.
This is a review of the bar not the restaurant. This place is horrible. I have seen a bartender pour a glass of wine for a table, then stick his fingers in it to fish something out, then put it on the servers tray. It gets very busy on the weekends and the bars are always understaffed so it takes forever to get a drink. There are never any drink specials. The layout is bad, there are tables along side the bar which creates a bottle neck for getting from the door and music to the pool tables and smoking area. The live music is always bad but no one goes there for the music anyway. There is a raised hearth where the owner, a bouncer, and sometimes a Brunswick cop stand perched in big brother like fashion. The smoking area overlooks main st so you see up it a ways which is nice. Or was. Now there is a huge white fence around it so you can't see anything. I want to steal the sweet civil war painting on the wall by the bathroom but I am pretty sure there is a camera there.
(1)Lindsey J.
I've only been to the tavern downstairs but there is a restaurant upstairs with a more extensive menu and less casual service. The tavern has a LOT of local beers on tap, but the pub food is limted mainly to appetizers and burgers but still very good. It can get crowded and busy (which means service is slow) but on off hours the service is jack-flash and you can get in and out in a little over 30 minutes. There are pool tables on the back that are always in use, day or night. The clientele ranges between college age kids to lobstermen to the business set, so just about anyone should feel comfortable here. It's a great casual place to have a beer with a few friends.
(4)