First to arrive at this Seaport brewpub, I started out with their Empire Premium Beer, a Czech-style lager similar to Pilsener Urquell. While it's not the syle of beer I usually go for, even I have to admit this was a nice, light, lager—like a Budweiser, but without the corny taste. At 5.5% ABV, it's a bit stronger than Bud, which weighs in around 4.0%. Certainly drinkable!

The Buffalo Bock arrived next. David arrived soon after. He's planning an event for 100, so he needed beer recommendations. Basically, he figured on three beers a person, which works out to 50 six-packs. On the one hand, that seems like an inordinate amount of beer, given that there would also be wine and soft drinks (not to mention that half the guests are children); on the other hand, you get to take home whatever doesn't get drunk! The bock (5.9%) was really malty sweet and caramelly!

Robert showed up about the same time as the Farmer John's Oatmeal Stout. For my money, this is consistently their best beer. It's rich and chocolatey and oatey. It's full of flavor, but it's not a heavy beer—if anything, it is a little light on the mouthfeel. The food arrived: a pulled pork sandwich and an onion loaf. (While I generally like their barbecue, this combination was almost too greasy to eat; definitely try something else next time...) Ever the raconteur, Robert regaled us with stories from his recent business trip to New Orleans, where apparrently, you don't go looking for fun, fun finds you!

"P" arrived and we grabbed a table outside, where the service was just dreadful! Danny showed up. Eventually, I was able to get another Buffbock. While we waited, we discussed DNO tee-shirt ideas. Some of the winners:

1. We're Dads, therefore we drink!
2. Honor thy Father, you mother!
3. Our wives let us out once a month...

I suppose if I were a tourist, this would be an interesting experience. I'm not. The beer used to be better, the food is passable at best and the service makes it easy to move to the next joint. I'm beginning to wonder why do I keep coming back?

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Post-Script: Heartland's South Street Seaport location sadly closed in the wake of Superstorm Sandy, October 29th, 2012. There was extensive flooding in low-lying areas of New York City, including South Street, which was located directly across the street from Pier 17. At the time of this writing (June, 2014) there are still five Heartland locations, including Union Square and the Empire State Building, as well as Houston Hall, Flatiron Hall and the just-opened Port Chester Hall.

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#1285

Dad's Night Out—The Home of Thurdsday