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Bearly's House of Blues and Ribs
Categories: Arts & Entertainment Jazz & Blues Nightlife Jazz & Blues Nightlife Bars Pubs Arts & Entertainment Music Venues Nightlife Music Venues Jazz & Blues, Pubs, Music Venues [Edit]
1269 Barrington StHalifax, NS B3J 1Y2
(902) 423-2526
- Hours:
Mon, Sun 11 am - 1 am
Tue-Sat 11 am - 2 am
- Good for Kids:
- No
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street
- Good for Groups:
- Yes
- Price Range:
-
$$
- Outdoor Seating:
- Yes
- Music:
- Live
- Best Nights:
- Wed
- Alcohol:
- Full Bar
- Smoking:
- Outdoor Area/ Patio Only
- Coat Check:
- No
- Noise Level:
- Loud
- Good For Dancing:
- Yes
- Has TV:
- Yes
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
20 reviews for Bearly's House of Blues and Ribs
Review Highlights
"...Bearlys also has Karaoke nights and live bands performing."
(in 4 reviews)
"...Wednesday is host to karaoke that welcomes every possible..."
(in 9 reviews)
"You'll find yourself going back again and again."
(in 3 reviews)
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20 reviews in English
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Review from Li K.
North York, ON
1/19/2012
Bearly's is a 5 star joint.... really... I remember the first day I walked in... there were 4 old men standing around and I almost ran.... but then I had a beer and the band came back from break... I was sold on the place for life.
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Review from Tracy R.
Halifax, NS
12/30/2011 ROTD 2/3/2012
I admit it. For many years I was one of those snots who turned my nose up at Bearly's. I always associated the place with truckers (no offense, but not exactly my demographic), country music (not sure why because duh, it's cleary well known as the Hali House of Blues/Jazz) and beer swigging. I don't drink beer...at all. Not that I have anything against beer, but I simply cannot digest the stuff. You don't even want to know what happens when I try. Shudder.
I now heart Bearly's...big time. Two reasons: For the third year in a row Bearly's has been our Halloween party spot. Yes, their annual Halloween party featuring the awesome, funkadelic Mellotones is hands down the best venue for Halloween. So. Much. Fun. Great mixed age crowd of super fun people who clearly dig Halloween. Always entertaining to see all the fantastic costumes and of course, get down with the best live funk/R&B, dance band in Halifax.
And then the other night I discovered another reason to love Bearly's...Karaoke! I know, where have I been? Honestly. I can't believe I am only discovering this now. My bestie from Toronto was visiting and we wanted something cool and different to do on a Wednesday night between Christmas and New Years when the rest of downtown was dead. We're talking crickets. So I said, at first as a joke, let's check out karaoke night at Bearly's! Boy we were in for a pleasant surprise. This was the most fun I've had in ages...and I didn't even go up and sing! I know, what?! I was actually too shy this time. We did dance our butts off though, and sang along at the top of our lungs.
Anyway, this was SO the opposite of everything I hate about other bars and nightclubs, i.e. too young, too many sk*nks (sorry, but it's true), terrible music, pretentious staff, I could go on. On the contrary, these were "real" people from all different walks of life coming together and having a blast. And man do they love their karaoke. Clearly these were regulars. Everyone seemed to know each other and what was so endearing is how they all cheered and supported each other, not just the great singers/performers (and we were blown away by some of them, in particular the "AC/DC guy...unbelievable!), but also the ones who couldn't really carry a tune but loved being on stage anyway. How frigging cute is that!
My friend said I need to find a way to infiltrate this karaoke gang so that will be my new year's resolution. I don't think it will be hard. After all, everyone was so lovely and welcoming. And how excited am I that I no longer have to karaoke alone in my living room! Yes, I do that. Hello, I'm Filipino. Need I say more?
I haven't tried the food but I will next time. Drinks were decent and bar staff quite friendly and normal, which is really all I ask for.
So...maybe see you on karaoke night. I'll be rockin' the Blondie. :o) -
Review from Robin S.
Halifax, NS
12/15/2011
I'm a pretty forgiving person when it comes to places that offer something other places don't, or have a certain atmosphere. Bearly's fits both those criteria. Halifax would not be Halifax without this institution of hot blues and cool jazz.
I crave a night dancing to blues at Bearly's like some people crave food. The kind of music that gets played here is the kind of music that just doesn't work the same way coming out of a stereo. You have to feel it, you have to groove to it, you have to be shoved, elbowed, jostled on the dance floor and drink crappy beer to it. Hear Theresa Malenfant croon, watch Garrett Mason belt it out, or groove to the hot sounds of Shirley Jackson. I once saw a guy play a guitar with his teeth. No foolin'.
Trying to describe Bearly's is like trying to describe a mood or a personality. There's a flavour to it that isn't a sum of its parts. Sure, the dance floor is tiny and is the main route to kitchen, bathrooms and VLCs. Sure, the beer selection is not great and the food is standard pub fare and the kitchen closes early. Sure, the furniture is old and all sorts of interesting characters frequent it, including cougars and bad dancers. But change any of that, and it just wouldn't be the same. It's Bearly's, warts and all.
You ain't gonna feel uncomfortable here, because there is no type. It's for everyone, as long as you love blues. There is no such thing as pretentiousness once you pass the double doors and get your hand stamped by the ever-cheerful lady at the door.
If you want a good dinner and a nice pint of beer, look elsewhere. If you want to experience a slice of the true Haligonia, void of tourist trappings, this is the spot to be.Listed in: Where You'll Find Me
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Review from Alex P.
Saanichton, BC
11/29/2011
The sounds of an amazing brass band funked out the door & up the street drawing me in to hear a show of "in the pocket" , entertaining, expertly executed fun music c/o Mike Cowie band. (5 horns doing NOLA meets night Train...for a $5 cover? sweet deal!)
Happy people danced. Friendly staff. Just a really nice room to drop into as an out of towner. Friendly locals too!
The intimate stage with neon sign and colourful walls were warm and fun.
Best to try bearly's!!! -
Review from Sarah B.
Halifax, NS
FUN! I was first introduced to this gem about a year ago when a very good friend of mine started playing there frequently. Bearly's is very small, dark, and you can immediately feel its devotion to music.
The stage is small and in your face which makes the musical session beyond intimate. There is also a crammed dance floor that fills up in seconds, and brings to life dance moves you can't find anywhere else-- other than old Swayze or Travolta flicks.
The bouncers are ridiculously friendly and have an ability to remember you--even if it was for 10 minutes 6 months ago. Thursdays are home to cheap jugs (10 bucks!), and Wednesday is host to karaoke that welcomes every possible walk of life. In one corner you have the grunge/gothic style, sitting next to them you have your country enthusiasts, and at the other end you have some good ol' soul singers. The neat concept behind this karaoke is that the host selects singers based on what the majority of the crowd is feeling; if the grunge sound made more people move than the other genres than your most likely going to be rockin' out to The Ramones all evening. It's a super idea, and really avoids having to listen to 10 renditions of Mariah Carey ballads.
Bearly's welcomes to the stage some of the best blues performers in Atlantic Canada, and definitely has a devotion to great music. I strongly suggest checking out as many live shows as you can (if you're a lover of live music) because you're guaranteed a night out that won't be comparable until the next time you're there! -
Review from Anthony C.
Vancouver, BC
3/30/2011
And so begins the Wednesday option for "The Karaoke Superstar Challenge". That is if you don't feel like going to Menz Bar. Or Michael's.
ANYWAY - Bearly's was the first place I did karaoke other than a high school function like prom or Safe Grad. Normally, I need to lean on my lady friends whilst singing the dulcet tones of Mr. Elton John or Mr. George Michael but on my introduction to big boy karaoke, I was left to my own devices. Those being a fistful of drunk friends and the drinks I was buying like a sailor on shore leave.
If you're looking for drinks on a budget, Bearly's on Wednesday is great. Order a little Rum and Diet for $3.75, steel your nerves and pore over the endless supply of tunes from Mimi. Are you a fan of country? Hip Hop? Top 40? Show tunes?!? No need to fret because they're all there. Hint: I love the show tunes.
While it can be intimidating to perform at Bearly's - because if you're going to sing, you need to perform - the crowd is usually quite receptive and encouraging. Sure, Mimi provides sass but I've noticed it's a common trait among the purveyors of karaoke. I'm not sure there is another bar in Halifax that would give me a slow clap followed by a standing ovation after my rendition of "Cabaret" by Liza. Think about that.
One night while waiting to sing "Somebody to Love" by Queen (oh yeah), I saw the cutest older lady with a pyramid studded fanny pack get up and sing "The Green, Green Grass of Home" while her gentleman friend sat front row, smile plastered across his face. Cute explosion. If the possibility of encountering a moment like that doesn't grab you by the vocal chords and drag you down to Barrington Street, at least go for the pool table; it has the best view of the house. -
Review from Courtney M.
Halifax, NS
11/6/2009
The first time you walk into Bearly's House of Blues and Ribs, you'll be immediately accosted by two simultaneous entities: the smell of stale beer and a 60+ year old gentleman named 'Cap'n'. Not to worry though, both will fade away into the recesses before you have a chance to order your first pint.
The live music at Bearly's is what most people come in for. The Roger Howse Band has been a fixture at Bearly's over the last decade and his Hendrix renditions will absolutely get you coming back.
The food at Bearly's is also a step above your typical pub fare. Give the ribs and cheeseburger a try.
We popped into Bearly's on Halloween to see the Mellotones and were very impressed! Despite the crowds and line up down the block the staff were all extremely accommodating and relaxed. I didn't have cash to pay cover up front and the lady taking cover charge just told me to wander in to the atm and pay on my way out. It's nice to find a place that understands customer service. It's also a relief to find a chill crowd of people enjoying some great music on what can be an extremely hectic bar night.
Overall, if you can get past the slightly rough looking biker crowd that often frequent this spot, the beer stained carpets and slightly dingy interior, you're in for a great night of food/drinks and music at Bearly's House of Blues and Ribs.Listed in: Kick ass dive bars
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Review from Lindsay K.
Halifax, NS
2/13/2010
You know a place is great for music when you can hear the commotion from a block away. Well, that's what Bearly's is like for me. I live right by this place and I can hear the music and good times pouring out from within whenever I go out on my balcony. It always sounds like so much fun, I figured I better try it for myself.
When I finally did I was pleased. The fun was exactly what I was expecting. The music was catchy and loud and the people were friendly and fun. The live bands really knew how to make the audience liven up and didn't disappoint. Even if you're not into blues music, I'm sure you'll like just listening.
The food was pretty decent, as well, and the drinks were pretty well priced. Our waitress was super nice and our group kept offering her drinks. She never took any of them, but did take a couple off our tab. Now that's what I call a great waitress.
Now when I hear all the noise coming from Bearly's, I won't be jealous and wish I was there, I'm just going to go and have a little fun of my own! -
Review from Lacey H.
3/31/2010 1 photo
A fun raucous yet laid-back experience you seek? - This is a great spot for you to suss out!
Bearly's has a smooth ambient tone underlying the dance party, music pumping good time. There are a plethora of nights to choose from at this joint - from live talented musicians, to aspiring chanteuses singing their hearts out to karaoke.
There are a few different nooks to choose from in the large space, which I always appreciate as I love milling about. There is a dance floor, plus quite a few tables so that patrons are able to rest and recuperate post shaking a tail feather.
I haven't noshed at Bearly's but have heard good reviews, especially from the meat-eaters. When I'm there, it's usually a barley sandwich diet for me, enjoying the bottled and tap varietals of the wheaty liquid.
I recommend this place as a fun venue for friends to gather and have a swinging good time. Check out the bill and find out what upcoming attractions Bearly's is boasting. You're bound to find something to pique your interests. -
Review from Adam B.
Halifax, NS
12/31/2009
Oh Bearly's, I come for the greasy food, I stay for the greasy atmosphere and I always come back for Karaoke on Wednesday nights!
Bearly's is the only blues bar in the game and I've seen some great acts here. It's not just local artists - Bearly's (Surprisingly) attracts some serious international talent. Definitely a place to stop in on a whim any night of the week for a great lesson in singing the blues.
Bearly's is also home of one of the best Karaoke nights in the city. Every Wednesday you'll find a ridiculously diverse crowd singing and drinking and participating in general tomfoolery. It's a real treat when the older men take the stage with their own lyrics for some songs. This doesn't happen often, but when it does it is a riot.
Bearly's is the kind of bar that our fair city needs more of. It is a great time for everybody. -
Review from Laura P.
Toronto, ON
Updated - 7/22/2010 1 photo
Oh Bearly's. A long time contender to our Halifax jazz and bluegrass scene, its a spot that never goes out of style. Walking in just recently, it seems as though the spot has also been spruced up a bit for the lightness of summer.
Fresh coats of paint on the buildings exterior make a for a huge difference, and Bearly's is now a bit more inviting for the daylight hours. A few tables with chairs? This is a fine South End spot to watch the crowds go by.1 Previous Review: Show all »
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3/18/2010
A few years ago, I lived just down the street from Bearly's. It was a spot I passed everyday and… Read more »
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Review from Jill M.
2/15/2011
You haven't lived until you've been serenaded/humiliated at Bearly's karaoke on a Wednesday night. Whether I'm being wooed with "Angel is a Centrefold" (yeah, it was weird) or am belting out "Stop" with a bunch of girlfriends, Bearly's is always a blast. The food is by no means fantastic, but that's not why you go. Go for the karaoke. Go for the awesome bands and performers. Go to watch the crazy regulars dance the night away while you sip some drinks with friends. The point is, go.
Listed in: South End Favorites, Barrington Bliss
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Review from cheryl d.
Halifax, NS
4/25/2010 1 photo
I always loved going to Bearly's sitting in the laid back atmosphere listening to the jazzy music. From the night of the live bands to the famous karaoke challenges it was always a good rocking time.
Bar being located almost in the middle it was always convenient to be able to get a drink.
On the weekends as well there are afternoon matinees that will get you in the mood to continue through the to the night. Bearly's is a different bar then the others I think it is the feel that you get when the door closes behind you.
Food is good here and plentiful so if it is either a afternoon out with the friends to celebrate life or just to have a good time come on down to Bearly's the House of Blues and have yourself one good time. Beer on tap as well as full bar. -
Review from Bethany J.
Halifax, NS
3/10/2010
Bearly's is a good rocking time.
That's almost all you need to say about Bearly's - but I'll elaborate a bit.
Bearly's brings in both local and out-of-town talent to fill the house with guitar licks and harmonica riffs. You know before you step in the door that there's something good happening here. Really - it's like a kitchen party, something that all Maritimers can appreciate.
There is a menu service available; check the website ( http://www.bearlys.com ) for open hours to save yourself the disappointment. I hear the ribs are amazing - try some for yourself and let me know!
The main attraction at Bearly's is the live music. Go with someone who likes to dance as much as you do; although there's a pool table or two upstairs, I doubt you'll spend much time around it when the stage is occupied.
Parking can be a problem but the area is generally safe so on-street parking isn't a big deal.
Bottom line, Bearly's satisfies your craving - for music, for ribs, for a good night on the town. You'll find yourself going back again and again! -
Review from Joshua Y.
Vancouver, BC
9/22/2009 4 photos
Like an old car that still runs great!
Bearlys is not a fancy bar and restaurant. The place, in fact is a bit dark and as you can tell from the photographs, is not the prettiest bar in the city. But like the first used car I bought when I was a teenager, it has character and will run great no matter what happens. The staff are friendly, very fun and work extremely hard. The food would be surprising for someone who just came off the street and didn't know anything about Bearlys. The quality is fantastic and portion size, quite generous.
But Bearlys also has Karaoke nights and live bands performing. So whether you want a nice, very filling lunch, or want to drink beer while listening to someone try and sing Frank Sinatra's, "My Way," Bearlys is here for you. It isn't the most attractive looking bar, but its got what counts when it comes to the right ingredients for a successful Bar. -
Review from Paul B.
12/11/2010
Greatest longstanding Blues venue in Halifax. Great Christmas Eve and New Years Day session - among many others.
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Review from Ang M.
Halifax, NS
10/28/2009
I haven't eaten here, I'll be up front about that. But I have had a few sodden nights of karaoke here, and they have been fantastic. Wednesday is karaoke night, hosted by the charming Mimi - who is all man, despite his name.
The neat thing about this karaoke spot is the crowd it brings in at this venue - an extremely eclectic mix of med students, bikers, businesspeople and just everyday types, all with varying degrees of vocal talent but consistently high levels of enthusiasm. It's a lot of fun to watch these folks act out their rock star fantasies.
And yes, I do a mean "To Sir With Love" -
Review from Shawna D.
Chester, NS
12/17/2009 1 photo
Bearly's requires an open mind before you go. From the outside it does not wow you, neither does the inside. However, the atmosphere created from the Live Bands , food, and characters compensates for everything.
I have been here on numerous occasions. Mostly on a Saturday afternoons. Keep in mind we use to go early to get the main seats. It is always packed. It is pretty crammed around the bar itself. Sitting there , you get to meet all the characters. It can be entertaining in itself.
Bearly's brings people from all ages and background. There is fantastic talent that has walked through the doors of Bearly's. I must say, I have not eaten there. However, the crowd I was with always did, and they never complained. -
Review from ella s.
Dartmouth, NS
2/28/2010
The first impression when you walk in the door is that Bearley's is some kind of subterranean good ol' boys' bar. The kind of place where men in sleeveless denim jackets and high-crown cowboy hats drink beer and tap their stetsons to the tune of Hank Williams. Except that instead of Hank Williams, you hear Riley Jackson. Discerning taste makes a hasty retreat. But discerning ears will not. This initial facade of country-western dystopia, combined with the gauche "... and Ribs" that suffixes the establishment's name, are just a ploy to keep pretension at bay and given the crowd a Friday night draws, it appears to be working.
The dark,, somewhat cloistered atmosphere, half jukejoint, half Irish pub, is built on 3 open concept levels, the topmost being the pool table nook with large windows that open onto the band and the dance floor far below, allowing you an excellent, yet deliciously private vantage point to watch the action.
And there is action. Most nights showcase excellent live music, both local and visiting acts. (The exception is Wednesday night Karaoke which, one might argue, is about as live as it gets.) As the name suggests, in addition to ribs, there is no shortage of blues either but bluegrass, swing and jazz acts are not unusual phenomena. And of course, anywhere you find excellent live music, you'll also find people willing to dance to it. And because Bearley's lacks the pretension and social paranoia of most other eclectic nightclub venues, everybody dances. It is nothing unusual to see a 90 year old man jitterbug the daylights out of his dainty 86 year old wife with the rhythm and grace of a teenager. It is nothing to see a group of 50-something flower-childhood friends trying to revive the Freakout as they glide seamlessly to music reminiscent of incense and peppermints. The atmosphere infects all who enter with it's glorious sense of honest funk.
And since all that dancing works up an appetite, the menu boasts an all-star cast of classic pub favourites of gargantuan proportions. (The potato skins, for example, can only be described as "extended-family size")
There are no leather couches. They don't serve lattes, nor do they serve sushi (though you CAN get a mean fish and chips for $8.95) There are no bookshelves loaded with books everyone has claimed to have read but no one actually has. There are no obnoxious reprints of famous paintings hanging everywhere. They simply showcase music. They showcase the hell out of it -
Review from Carrie M.
Halifax, NS
4/4/2010
Thank God for Bearly's. I like my blues and this is the place to go. Where else in Canada can you go and listen to a Juno award winning bluesman (Morgan Davis) on a Thursday night for the price of a couple drinks and the best ribs and wings in town. Other visiting Blues performers make their way though from time to time and up and coming local blues musicians have a stage to develop their chops. The place isn't fancy but the atmosphere is great.
