Yesterday was my first visit to this iteration of Annex. It was previously known as Sit-n-Bull Annex prior to being sold last year. I was a very infrequent visitor before the sale as well.
So, I stepped inside to see what there was to see. Not a lot as it turns out. The smallest bar I’ve reviewed thus far. No pool, no darts. A bar with several stools and two tables. That’s it. I took a seat midway on the empty bar.
So, first impressions of this new (to me) bar. It’s small but cozy. It was comfortable enough and offered up most of what I want in a bar, primarily cold beer and a pleasant atmosphere. During my visit, there were two bartenders. I assume they would accept a lady drink, but this is one of the few places in town where it doesn’t appear that staff is hired to entertain customers. Nothing wrong with that. On the other hand, I didn’t find the bartenders particularly friendly or welcoming. They took my order, served my beer, and ignored me while carrying on a conversation with each other in Tagalog. Maybe I’m spoiled, but most bar staff will at least ask you your name. I did note that when the other two customers departed, the girls thanked them by name. I guess I just haven’t achieved “regular” status so as to warrant time and attention.
I also thought it was interesting that smoking was allowed inside. Now, that doesn’t bother me but I know lots of folks who are very much opposed to secondhand smoke exposure. Hell, there are people who don’t like secondhand water vapor which is why I started gravitating to outside bars. Of course, I gave up vaping a month ago so it doesn’t matter to me now either way.
Anyway, nothing much else stands out about Annex. The bartenders were attractive but I felt invisible to them. It was a very small bar, but nicely decorated and comfortable. It would probably be better to come with a friend or two to keep you company though. The bottom line for me: I liked it okay but found no compelling reason to make it a regular stop, even though I pass by frequently on my way to other places.
The current rankings:
- It Doesn’t Matter
- Alley Cats
- Adam’s
- Blue Butterfly
- Out Back Billabong
- Dynamite Dick’s
- Hideaway
- Rosies
- Queen Victoria
- Annex
- MacArthur’s
- Redz Pub
- Whiskey Girl
Am only now beginning to realize just how many of these bars are in your area. That’s a long list, and I assume it’s only gonna get longer.
What, in your opinion, makes for the perfect bar? (Or should I just reread your entry re: It Doesn’t Matter?)
Will you be reviewing any local bars that you’ve never been to before, or have you visited them all at this point?
Yes, I think there are about ten more bars yet to review. I’m pretty sure I’ve been to all of them at least once or twice in the past. This one, Annex, was new to me under the current ownership.
I’m not sure what I’d describe as the “perfect” bar. These reviews are very subjective as it is, but I like a cheerful, welcoming environment, friendly staff but no drink pressure, good music not played too loud, and other like-minded patrons to hang out with.