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Jimmy's Old Town Tavern
Categories: Nightlife Bars Restaurants Canadian (Traditional) Bars, Canadian (Traditional) [Edit]
697 Spring StHerndon, VA 20170
(703) 435-5467
- Hours:
Mon-Sun 11 am - 1:30 am
- Take Away:
- Yes
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street
- Attire:
- Casual
- Good for Groups:
- Yes
- Good for Kids:
- No
- Takes Reservations:
- No
- Delivery:
- No
- Price Range:
-
$$
- Waiter Service:
- Yes
- Outdoor Seating:
- No
- Wi-Fi:
- Free
- Good For:
- Late Night, Lunch, Dinner
- Music:
- DJ, Live
- Best Nights:
- Fri, Thu, Sat
- Happy Hour:
- Yes
- Alcohol:
- Full Bar
- Smoking:
- No
- Coat Check:
- No
- Noise Level:
- Average
- Good For Dancing:
- No
- Ambience:
- Casual
- Has TV:
- Yes
- Caters:
- Yes
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
- Dogs Allowed:
- No
90 reviews for Jimmy's Old Town Tavern
Review Highlights
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"Plus, he offers "beef on weck" (so, try one." In 20 reviews -
"Really enjoyed the cup of chili and the Buffalo platter." In 9 reviews -
"Can't wait to try the wings on another visit." In 29 reviews
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90 reviews in English
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Review from Randall M.
Sterling, VA
4/30/2012
I've been a couple times and had fun.
Bartenders are nice and prompt.
If you're in hte area, it's a good place to check out for yourself. -
Review from Tom T.
Oakton, VA
4/4/2012 1 Check-in Here
Well, after a quick ride today on the Harley, I was thinking about a chill out local bar and Jimmy's came to mind.
Beer was cold, service was friendly, and went for their wings HOT and fried a bit longer to get em good & crispy!
I ordered the Beef on Weck to top off my night and was not disappointed! Great food, the hockey game kept my attention but had to get back on the bike for a relaxing ride home in this great weather!!!
Jimmy's is a go-to standard for family AND bikers alike! See you again soon... ;) -
Review from Jim D.
Annapolis, MD
2/12/2012
Being from Buffalo, I had to check this place out for a Sabres game. Parking was easy on the street or in a small lot but it was a snowstorm and not very busy even for a Saturday evening. Good beer selection and decor had a hometown feel.
Chicken wings were good for standards outside of Buffalo. Chicken Fingers were large and crispy, but nothing you couldn't get at a chain. Prices were fair. We had a beef on weck which had a soggy hamburger bun rolled in table salt. I expected a fresh crusty roll with rock salt instead. Fries (hand-cut, double fried) were neither hot nor warm--basically room temperature--and we got replacements that were rushed and undercooked. I had a large cut of prime rib which came with salad, fries (cold), and veggies--a great deal for $15.25. But the meat was tough and I had to ask 3 times for horseradish. My expectations were too high for such a low price.
Service was poor. Regulars got much attention and we weren't even asked how our food was. Waitress wasn't busy attending to half empty section. She was more concerned with discussing some breaking news with friends and coworkers. I felt like stiffing on the tip but left 10% and decided never to return. -
Review from Tim D.
Glencoe, AL
5/19/2012 1 Check-in Here
Not bad but too expensive for just beer drinking. Didn't think that $5.50/beer is resonable
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Review from Maira R.
Herndon, VA
4/2/2012
I have lived in Herndon over 10 years! And I recently started going to Jimmy's I love it there the staff is very attentive, they made me food that wasn't on the menu! Who does that? Saturday nights are clubbing nights lol I always have a blast here ( FYI waitress Danyel is awesome)
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Review from J M.
Washington, DC
2/6/2012
I am writing this as I am listening to today's Mike O'Meara podcast.
The first time I was here was the Saturday after Christmas 2006. I amaze myself on random things I remember. I was a first-time homeowner semi-nearby and I was exploring my new town. I had their Saturday night prime rib special.
Memories I already have include JOTT winning the best wings of Northern Virginia last year. My vote helped the cause, by the way. Because of my winning vote, Jimmy made good on his promise of doing the chicken dance strolling the downtown Herndon streets sporting nothing much more than his white boxers. I remember it was still pretty cold outside, so mad props to Jimmy for that!
Other memories include coming in before AND after the summer Friday Night Live (free) concert series.
I have a new fun memory at JOTT. Yesterday was our first Super Bowl game and was the first time we had to make reservations. Among the local celebrities were Channel 4's Pat Collins, who was doing a story on downtrodden Redskins fans, and the Mike O'Meara podcast show. Motrya and I had those same award-winning wings ($0.50 cents each during the game) first and then during the game had the best Philly cheesesteak ($9) with green peppers ($0.50) and mushrooms (($0.50). During the game's commercials, we voted "Like" or "Dislike" on each commercial during the first quarter. The poor guy O'Meara had counting the votes couldn't keep up and quit. Nicole, our server, was absolutely wonderful!
One more note, JOTT truly honors our Veterans!
Thanks so much for the fun times so far and looking forward to more!!! -
Review from Valerie Emma C.
Alexandria, VA
4/6/2012
Should be 3.5 stars... we have only ever eaten here once, and we were soooo hungry that anything would have tasted just as good. Jimmy's is our "Plan B" bar... when there is nothing left to do on a Saturday night we walk over, have a few drinks and stumble our way home. This place is GREAT to people watch, and is definitely a locals type bar. My friends and I managed to spend almost $250 one night... in our defense we were there for almost 7 hours... no we are not alcoholics just like to have a good time. Another night, my friend was approached by a local woman claiming to give the "Best Head in Herndon"... who does that??!! By the way, pretty sure she only had a handful of teeth. See.. great place to people watch.
Service is mediocre both at the bar and at your table, but really why would you expect more? Anywho... we don't frequent this place often, but it does help break up the monotony of the week. -
Review from Kim H.
11/24/2011 2 Check-ins Here
Located in the "heart" of Herndon, Jimmy's Old Town Tavern is a local gem. The drinks are cheap, the people are friendly and the food certainly isn't too shabby. They are best known for their wings and sandwiches. I had an open faced turkey with soft buttery homemade mash and gravy and a side of broccoli. Very satisfying! It tasted like my white mama's home cookin' (if I had one - ha!).
The crowd is a mixture of families, oldies and youngins. Which can make for some great people watching. They have trivia, open mic and live bands throughout the week. They also have great happy hour prices from 4-8pm daily
Even though they claim to be a "Buffalo" bar, I did notice some Redskin's memorabilia as well as a V Tech flag in the window. But don't take my word for it.....come at your own risk, I hear those Buffalo fans can get pretty rowdy ;) -
Review from Stacy B.
Reston, VA
10/19/2011
Goodness, where do I even begin.
I grew up in this area, so I know Jimmy's very well. It's been an old town landmark. However, I have personally never been there. The main reason being up until recently, you could just be driving by and overcome by the plumes of cigarette smoke coming out of the front door. And, that never appeals to me!
But, today, my co-workers decided that's where they wanted to go. And, knowing it is now non-smoking, I obliged and said what the heck, I will give it a shot.
The service left a lot to be desired. The waitress was nice and all, but was slow, and neglected to give us the specials - which we heard her tell people next to us AFTER we were done with our meals. I actually would have ordered the special if I had heard it first. When our food came out, it sat on a tray about 10 feet from our table, for a good 3-5 minutes before the waitress even came over to distribute it to our table.
When I asked for a condiment and she proceeded to go refill drinks and check on customers for the next 10 minutes. By the time I got it my food was cold.
I ordered the portabella wrap, which if I was lucky had 4-5 teenie weenie mushrooms that were NOT even portabellas. My coworker got the same thing, and I think he had even less mushrooms than I did. The rest of the wrap was lettuce and onions. That's it! It was horrible. Just horrible.
Needless to say, I will never go back there again. There are just way too many other, much better, options. If you want to sit a a dingy bar and drink beer - ok. But if you want a nice dining experience this is not the place. -
Review from R S.
Herndon, VA
10/4/2011
I just left Jimmy's after quite a lunch and couldn't write this terrible review fast enough.
After seating myself and getting myself a menu (and witnessing the staff watch me while i navigated around with my stroller), it was not until 10 minutes later when I loudly said 'I guess i'll have to go into the kitchen and cook for myself also' that someone came over to get my order. I was never offered a high chair. Instead, the entire staff including the owner, watched me wrestle with my 15 month old on my lap.
The restaurant was not full - this wasn't during the lunch rush or happy hour. There is no reason to be so rude to a parent and new resident of Herndon. -
Review from Tracy K.
7/29/2011
I loved my experience at Jimmy's! My friends and I had just gone for a swim and came here on a whim, so we honestly weren't looking our best, but it was fine. People were mostly in jeans and teeshirts, so there was no need to impress here. Most of the clientele seemed to be in their 30's and 40's (some in their late 20's, but not many younger than that). This is a good ol' hometown-type bar. There aren't that many tables (the place isn't huge and the space is split between the bar area and the seating area), so it could be a challenge to find a place to sit.
As a Caps fan, I wasn't too pleased to see a Buffalo Sabres viewing party going on when I went (sorry!). Even so, I loved the pride they had for their hometown and I feel this would be an awesome place to hang out if you WERE a fan of any Buffalo team to watch the games with fellow fans in the DC area.
Wings are SO good. OHHH man, they were awesome. Dare I say, the best I've had in this area? They were fabulous. Seriously. Try them for yourself. I want to come back and try other things too... but those wings are so tempting. mmm.
The best thing about Jimmy's, though, is the friendly atmosphere. The staff is certainly pleasant, but Jimmy himself is AWESOME! He's a really nice guy and takes the time to come around and talk to everyone. He gets to know you and within 5 minutes, you're already feeling like a "regular". You don't get that kind of feeling from many other places in this area, which truly makes Jimmy's Old Town Tavern one-of-a-kind.Listed in: BEER!
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Review from Patrick L.
Silver Spring, MD
10/26/2011
BUFFALO!!!! Ok, now that I got that of my...BILLS!!!...system lets get to the review. I have been to Jimmy's a half dozen times, always for Bills games. The food is true Western New York (beef on weck, Anchor Bar sauce, Pierogies, poutine and even a fish fry on Fridays!) and received approval from my Buffalo native wife.
The staff is helpful and amazing during the games when the bar is filled to capacity, so I would imagine they have their act together during "normal" business. Jimmy is a riot and completes the game day experience.
P.S. Labatt Blue bottles all day, every day! -
Review from Simon B.
Sometimes, by chance, you stumble onto something magical. Waiters wearing Munich aprons (for octoberfest), dancing/hopping around and truly excited to be there. A place so busy and happy that an older seemingly somewhat stuffy couple gladly let their waiter setup two trays over the foosball table to get a couple drinks and enough the atmosphere. The couple dining next to us, asking the waiter to be sat at the bar after their meal so that a pair of 20 something guys could have their dinner a little faster. I don't think I saw a single person in that tavern that didn't have a smile on their face.
We had driven from DC solely to try their poutine and it was good. A large portion (big enough for 2 as an appetizer), a very strong beef gravy, and melted curds (not the right kind, but good). Not exactly the best poutine I've ever had (see the list), but it hit the spot. The suicidal wings were hot (too hot for the GF even when sampling the sauce with her fork), but not crazy hot. Add to this a celebration of Octoberfest with a good beer selection (loved the $3.75 Paulaner!) and a killer atmosphere, and you got a place we will certainly return to even with the 30min drive. -
Review from Kirsten P.
Great Falls, VA
7/31/2011
not a long time listener and definately a late time caller! I stopped for lunch while running errands. It was a weekday since I work odd hours/days. I sat at a table in the bar area and had a super nice and friendly wait ladeeee.
I ordered the Buffalo Platter - since it I had read about it on Yelp AND happen to be Ukranian/Russian and can actually make pierogies(which is a side choice vs fries or something - all I saw was Pierogie!) LOL Not sure about the beef on weck - I would not know any different but it was very good.
I was disappointed with the pierogies as they were not in the saute form(as stated on the menu but were fried or something, nor were they homemade (by them or anyone else - I know Mrs T's when I see them!)
The kielbasa was very thinly sliced and of course I'm used to a hunka hunka.
I will also say that for one that has not actually eaten wings with bones in them since I was like 7 due to a trauma at a chinese place (I recall picking one up and seeing the tiny hairs on them and have not had one since - bone-in form) - I sucked it up and did not study them (so I have no idea if they have those same hairs) but they were very yummy - I only wish I had asked for them hotter - me like spicey food! I will next time!
I would also brave out on my own (I'm new to the area/state) for some of the fun nights as everyone seems very friendly, unpretentious etc - parking kinda sucks though! -
Review from Christine R.
Fairfax, VA
1/3/2012
I absolutely adore this place. I haven't ever been here for a real sit down meal. Only to meet up with friends, dance, play foosball, act a fool? Yeah that's about right. It's in the middle of Herndon and isn't very big. No glitz, no glamour just good times and drinks. I've had nibbles of appz they offer here and have never been disappointed. The crowd can vary, but it's typically a good mix of people of all ages and walks of life. It's fun to dance on the restaurants lower level and just kick back without having to go all the way out to DC to deal with people that think they're too good for the 'hood. Nahmean?
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Review from Jeff T.
Douglasville, GA
11/1/2011
Food 2.5, Atmosphere 4. Great atmosphere, ok, but not great food.
Ok, I walked nearly 25 minutes from my hotel to get here based on the reviews I read. Figured I had to check it out. Lets start with the atmosphere...it was a lively, fun atmosphere in a neighborhood bar. I liked it even though I went alone. Seems like it would be a great place to hang with friends and grab drinks and some food. If you are looking for that setting this place is great. And the food is ok for that purpose. As for my meal....
If I were not going here for the atmosphere and to have drinks...I wouldn't choose it for a place to eat. The food was ok, but not that great. I had the Buffalo Platter. Beef on Weck, 5 wings, a side of your choice of fries, pierogi's, and I think something else, a pickle, and a very small serving of slaw.
Beef on Weck: Pretty good. Pretty good flavor, however, if you have ever been to Buffalo, and visited a place called "Charlie the Butcher's" then you will know that pretty good at this place is no way even comparable to Charlie's. Thinly sliced beef with decent flavor. It should be served a little more rare than it is served here. That would have made it even better. My bottom bun was a bit soggy so this turned me off slightly as I hate mushy bread but other than that, a totally passable sandwich. This was the best part of my meal. By the way, for those who may not know what weck is, it is just the name of the roll, short for kummelweck roll.
The wings. Mine were sub-par. Over cooked and lacking flavor. I ordered "hot." No heat at all. Dried out and burned chicken skin is just not appealing...and my wings had it. The meat was even a bit tough, and had an "old" taste. I have a little dive bar near my house in a small town in Georgia that puts these wings to shame. I could not have eaten one more. Totally turned off by the time I finished them. Maybe I just got a bad batch, but my order was not good.
The pierogis. They are fried, you get 2, and there are a few pieces of smoked sausage and onions with them. Not bad, not great. More like an appetizer. Not a lot of taste to the "pastry" part of them. I hate to say that even the pickle and slaw were average as best.
$11.95 for the meal, $5 for a beer...plus tip...so at least $20. Add that to my 2.6 mile, 50 minute round trip walk...it wasn't really all that worth it for me since I only went for one reason...to eat.
Overall, the food was definitely not bad, but certainly nothing to write home about. Beef was ok, but I was disappointed mostly with the wings. I would eat here again if I were going to hang out here for all the reasons you go to a bar...I would not plan on coming here because I wanted to just eat their food. It isn't a substitute for a good restaurant. That being said, I wish my neighborhood had a bar just like it, I would still go often. -
Review from Matthieu K.
Leesburg, VA
7/16/2011
Bars like this are sadly rare in the DC area.
This place is a gem and, had I the time, I'd be a regular.
Jimmy is a gentleman and a great conversationalist ... and his staff reflects his winning personality.
When you visit a place like this, it makes you lament stripmall chain establishments ... this kind of place is what we lose out on.
Must visit if you're within driving radius, you will be glad you made the trip. -
Review from David S.
Reston, VA
7/18/2011
Went for lunch, stayed for the fun. Had a great time today at lunch, got their Tavern Dog. HUGE Dog on a really good sub roll, really tasty. I asked for extra coleslaw to put on my dog and they thought it was a great idea!
But like other reviewers said, I went for the food and the drink, and made a couple friends while I was there. Definitely making this one of my regular lunchtime spots! -
Review from James B.
Philadelphia, PA
1/11/2012
I'm happy to be back in Herndon on a project, because that means I can go to Jimmy's again. This is one of my top 5 favorite bars anywhere in the country (I travel all over the place for work). Food, staff, owner, crowd - all top shelf. You can't do this kind of place any better than this place does.
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Review from Jess T.
8/4/2011
I went here for one thing, and one thing only: gravy fries with cheese curds, otherwise known as poutine. I read on Chowhound that they indeed made it, and traveled all the way to Herndon to try some.
They're more expensive than the poutine you'll get at the Wonky food truck in DC, but being a brick-and-mortar establishment means you can get it anytime, so it's sort of a trade off.
The restaurant itself was very neighborhood-y and down-to-earth. I would give this place five stars but I didn't try anything but the poutine so I can't say how good the other menu items are. Five stars for the poutine though! -
Review from Brenda J.
Rancho Bernardo, CA
9/5/2011
Jimmy's has to have some of the friendliest staff I have ever met. Very inviting. I wish the food was just as good.
It's kind of typical tavern faire...burgers, stews, buffalo wings, etc. We both had the same thing--wish we would have tried other stuff. We had the Chicken stew and a salad. The salad was fresh and better than what I'd expect at a tavern--fresh green mix with fresh cucumbers, tomatoes, etc. The chicken stew was good for about the first 3 bites. Than it became very one-note. Too much gravy, too much black pepper, not enough depth of flavor. I would say either make it into a chicken and dumplings so the gravy has a purpose, or create a vegetable/chicken stew that can be eaten without gravy becoming the overwhelming taste.
I'd really like to try their perogies--I'm eastern european by decent and miss my mom's and grandma's perogies. -
Review from Nick L.
Herndon, VA
5/27/2011 1 Check-in Here
Oh Jimmy's. You had me at Yuengling and our destiny was sealed when you served me my first Guinness.
What can you say about Jimmy's that hasn't already been said? Nothing really, but I'll try my best.
Jimmy's is exactly what it's advertised as, and old town tavern. I can't imagine Herndon without it. Jimmy (the owner) is one of the nicest people you could hope to meet and he wonders around the bar helping to take orders, run food and do anything that needs to be done.
There is a monthly calender that doubles as your placemat to keep you informed of the goings on such as poker, bags (you may call it corn hole, Jimmy's calls it JOTThole), trivia, guest bartending, all Buffalo teams are celebrated and there are events promoting them.
All of the food is great, though I've had hits and misses with the Prime Rib, I'd still order it again without thinking twice.
Now I'm Ukranian and finding a place to get Perogies and Kilbasa that taste almost as good as my Baba made blew my mind. Seriously.
All of the waitstaff is professional and very helpful, it's amazing!
If you need one small reason to order an appetizer, Jimmy's was just voted King of the Wings, and they are amazing and true Buffalo wings. -
Review from Angela L.
Sterling, VA
1/8/2012
Ordered poutine because I am of French-Canadian descent -IT WAS DELICIOUS.
This is a total dive bar, which I love. Sometimes I might want to dress up and get pretty to go somewhere, but this is somewhere that you can go in jeans and t-shirt and just chill with some close friends. There's never any cover (at least that I'm aware of), and the drinks are made pretty well.
Also, the service here is fantastic. Everyone working that I've ever met has been really friendly - the slogan is something like "where everyone's a regular". That's what it felt like.
Overall, this is somewhere you should go with your best friends that you know well who aren't super shy and enjoy the randoms. Also, the ice luge was AMAZING, and Jimmy's "Midnight Mystery Contest!" was hilarious.
If you're into dancing, it usually starts about 11 p.m. or so, on the makeshift dance floor, complete with disco ball. -
Review from Ashley T.
Reston, VA
6/7/2011
I'm going to give this place two of the highest compliments I can think of for a dive bar.
1.) Coming from Boston, and this being a New York kind of centered place (yeah, yeah, I know... not southern NY, but still... mehhrrr...)... This place was pretty awesome. I made like, 10 new friends here, and they all seemed to like me even though I was slurring pretty awesomely... or at least pretended to like me, which I suppose is all that matters.
2.) I started a stanky-leg contest (yep, you read that right), and pretty much everyone competed. Pretty sure that says it all.
So much better than all those crappy bars in Reston Town Center, I'm pumped to have it in close proximity. -
Review from Mark S.
4/12/2011
I ate at Jimmy's two weeks ago while visiting the D.C. area. This review is rather delinquent but I felt it had to be written.
Had I gotten to enjoy the full experience at Jimmy's Old Town Tavern this would have been a five star review. Allow me to explain...
I was traveling with a co-worker and we were looking for somewhere to eat. We drove around the area and passed this place. I had read some Yelp reviews, knew it was close to our hotel and recognized the name. I did not stop here on the first swing as I was fully aware that my co-worker did not drink alcohol so I was not sure if he would be comfortable in a bar and grill setting. Nothing was jumping out so we made another swing down Centreville Rd. On the second trip around I asked him if he would be OK with that and he said he was perfectly fine with it. I would have loved to have a beer, but did not want to make him uncomfortable. I guess I should not penalize Jimmy's rating for this... but you just can't go to a place like this and not have a beer. I am sure in certain states it's against the law.
On to the food... I loved it! I had the Buffalo Platter: Beef on Weck, Buffalo Wings and Pierogies. I have never been to Buffalo, so I would not know authentic Beef on Weck if it grew teeth and bit me. Their version was VERY good. Hot Wings, of course, are served in every bar and grill across the country. I believe Jimmy's to be true, authentic Buffalo Wings. They were excellent. The pierogies were good, but were completely overshadowed by the other two items.
If I ever get to Buffalo, I plan to tell them that there is a little piece of Buffalo in Northern Virginia called Jimmy's Old Town Tavern. -
Review from Chris D.
1/15/2011
Umm. Yeah. I am starting this review with no idea how many stars I'm ending up at. In all honesty, Jimmy's is a bit like the strange girl your friends set you up with. When you first make eye contact, you are strikingly uncomfortable at just how unapologetic she is for not being like other girls. She is brash and brazen; you can't do anything but plan a way to get the hell away. You decide to stick it out and as the evening passes, it eventually starts to hit you... you might actually like this girl. In fact, the more you talk (and the more you drink), the more you come to appreciate the subtle nuances of her quirkiness. Before you know it, the night has come to a close and you allow yourself to admit that not only is she not what you thought, but that's the reason you want to see her again. You might even go so far as to use the word smitten. Funny how that happens.
I should just end my review there, but I can't. At the risk of ruining the flow, there are two things about my night at Jimmy's you should know.
1) Within 5 minutes of arriving, I was physically pushed away from the bar by a woman 15 years my senior and weighing at least as much as me. (FYI - I'm no slouch in the body mass index department.) I wasn't doing anything wrong, I was just taking up the exact spot on planet Earth she wanted to be in. I was well and truly dumbfounded.
2) I had some of the best service I've had in a very long time. We were standing at the half wall thing and our waitress, whose name I never caught, was fantastic. I'm not saying that because I'm shallow and she was all giggly and cleavagey. In fact, she was neither. Instead she was quick, efficient and had a dry sense of humor that facilitated an awesome (and unprompted) gag involving four orange slices, a cherry and my buddy who hates fruit in his beer. I tipped her 30% and actually feel like I shafted her, service was that good. -
Review from David R.
Reston, VA
12/20/2010
You gotta love a Buffalo-themed sports bar. Where else would you find LaBatt's AND Beef on Weck in northern Virginia? Jimmy's is the real deal, and blows the pretentious (and rude) "Thirsty Bernie" (the other Buffalo bar in the area) out of the water. Jimmy himself is usually on the premises, and if you happen to visit during a Buffalo Bills game, and the Bills are WINNING (rare, I know...), the mood is infectious.
But, where can I get a garbage plate around here (oh, that's Rochester...never mind).
Basic, delicious wings in four simple flavors (no lemon pepper or Cajun sauce here...)--CHECK. A sheen on the wood of the bar from decades of non stop smoking--CHECK. A truly diverse bunch of people sitting at the bar--CHECK. Jimmy's is a Herndon mainstay and is preferred over the slicker, pricier spots in Reston Town Center. You feel you're in a real town, and a real pub, at Jimmy's. But keep the kids at home, despite that fussball table near the bar. -
Review from Katie P.
Herndon, VA
3/10/2011
I went to Jimmy's for the first time last weekend and I have no doubt I'll be back. It's a reasonably large bar for where it's located. We grabbed a table around 4pm on a Friday night no problem, but by 6, 7, 8pm it was getting pretty crowded.
They were celebrating their NoVA win for Kings of Wings when we went and so their wings were half off. My husband got them and really liked the mild. I opted for the tavern dog which was in a word legendary. I don't know what they did, but I am not sure I could ever get anything else now!
Happy Hour deals are great on beer and food. Our table racked up 18 beers and only spend $42 on alcohol. Mixed drinks were also cheap (rum and coke ran less than $2.50 per glass).
We stayed for 8 (yes, 8) hours that night and the crowd was super fun. We talked to Jimmy for probably 30 minutes and he's a great character.Listed in: The Places I Go Out
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Review from Holly F.
12/18/2010 6 Check-ins Here
This is one of my favorite lunch spots. If you are in the Reston/Herndon/Sterling/Dulles area, grab some friends or fun coworkers, and head over for lunch (happy hour too).
Order the poutines for the table when you walk in (trust me). And take a gander at the menu while you enjoy a beverage (alcoholic or non). I have yet to order anything I was disappointed with so be brave.
The staff is fantastic so treat them well!Listed in: Best Eats of NoVA
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Review from Jennifer B.
Bethesda, MD
7/26/2011
I live in Bethesda, MD, and I come all the way out to Herndon, VA to go to Jimmy's because there's no way a decent place like this would be found anywhere near the yuppie ghetto restaurant scene of Bethesda! Jimmy's is the place you wish you had in your neighborhood. The food is great, the beer is cold, and everyone - proprietors and patrons alike - treats you like a member of the family the minute you walk in the door. Plus, I lived in central New York for a while and this is the only place within a radius of at least 150 miles of my current home where I can get delicacies such as beef on weck, kielbasa and pierogies, and poutine.
The photo gallery does not lie - Jimmy's is very kid-friendly! If the bar area is not your toddler's scene, there is a more sedate dining area in the back and down a couple of steps. Unlike most "kid-friendly" restaurants, who just bring you a couple of crayons, Jimmy's gives you a whole box full of duplo blocks and other toys so you can build a fortress while you wait for your smiley fries. The kids' menu has a variety of options, and includes a fruit cup and a drink in a kid-size cup with a lid and bendy straw. All of the staff were very sweet to my toddler and didn't seem offended when he started assigning them silly nicknames.
Jimmy is a really nice guy who comes around to talk to everyone - and his staff are all just as friendly and solicitous. You can tell they enjoy being there. Our waiter even possessed psychic powers, guessing which beer my husband was going to order before he ordered it!
If you are tired of surly bartenders, dim-witted waitstaff, overpriced burgers with fancy cheese, obnoxious patrons, cavernous echo chambers with trendy lighting, and the same four colors of crayons, come to Jimmy's. You will leave satisfied and wondering why 99% of other bars and restaurants out there just can't seem to get it right. -
Review from Josh T.
Alexandria, VA
11/13/2011
My wife and I were taken to Jimmy's by two other Buffalo natives for a Sabres game.
It's defiantly a Buffalo Bar! Sabres game on the TVs. Some Bills gear on the walls. They serve all the Buffalo staples like Beef on Weck, Chicken Wings-not- fake "Buffalo Wings", Reubens, Beer Battered Fish Frys on Fridays, Labatt Blue, Molson, etc. The Beef on Weck is flavorful, moist, and just awesome. The wings are good, but I'd prefer they'd crisp them up some more, drop the Anchor Bar sauce, and just go with Franks and butter. Wasn't digging the odd music mix, but that's ok. Service was friendly. The owner was also friendly, and helping the staff.
I'll be back for the Sabres games, Beef on Weck, and to try the Fish Frys. -
Review from TeeJay B.
Los Angeles, CA
8/9/2008
****1/2 Stars out of *****
But, they don't have 1/2 stars...
I met Jimmy when he was a bartender at Sully's outside of Centreville, more years ago than I care to count.
My posse and I were not happy when he told us he was leaving Sully's. But, we were happy for him that he was going to open his own place in Olde Town Herndon. Herdon was off of our beaten path, so who knew when we would ever go there.
So sad, we were. Jimmy left a huge void at Sully's. Not long after he left, Sully's fell off of our rotation.
More than a year later, I bought a house in Herndon...within walking distance (just across the golf course path) to Old Town Herndon. But, Jimmy's still hadn't opened. Only a sign marked that it was forthcoming. Every day that I drove past it, I noticed the construction phases...
So, nooooooo! I didn't buy my house just so I could walk to my local watering hole!
When "Jimmy's" finally opened...ahhhhh....bliss!
My kinda bar, and I can stumble (or roll) down the bike path home! WooHoo!
My friends would get off work (from AOL, EDS, etc), park their cars in my drive, and we would all trek across the path together for Happy Hour!
If you are going there for dinner, expect great food. Not fast food. They take the time to do it right! Sit down, relax, and order the Surf and Turf the way you like it! You will not be disappointed!
Fun bartenders, theme nights, great times! Moreover, I am really impressed with all of the charity events they continue to have!
I am based in Los Angeles now, but when I go back East, I always go to Jimmy's! And I am always treated like a regular, even if they don't know my name anymore!
Travelers, if you are ever stuck at Dulles or anywhere in Northern Virginia, get a cab ride to Jimmy's!
p.s. I would give it 5 stars, but it is a BILLS (But I Like Losing Super Bowls) bar, and I am a Cowboys fan.
Eh, no one is perfect! -
Review from Erik M.
12/2/2009
I had the good fortune of visiting Jimmy's on the day that the Virginia indoor smoking ban went into affect, so the reviewers noting the air quality (that almost steered me away from visiting) may want to give it another shot if that was the primary gripe. Thankfully that's no longer a concern because Jimmy's is a great, genuine townie establishment.
I made my way through a crowd of newly-displaced smokers and through the front doors to find the place packed for the weekly pub quiz (Tuesdays at 7). As I hunted around for a free seat, one of the waitresses cheerfully greeted me and directed me to a small table downstairs that was obscured by the crowds and a wall.
After I was seated, the service was quick, friendly, and efficient. I was immediately recognized as "not from around here" by staff and patrons alike but nobody looked like they wanted to kick my ass (like I've experienced in similar establishments elsewhere) and I bet if I'd been able to stick around for more than dinner and a beer, I could have made a few friends pretty easily.
For dinner, I had the north Philly style cheesesteak with peppers and mushrooms, and upgraded the fries to a side of poutine and it was fresh and filling, if a bit on the bland side. The poutine was noteworthy only for the fact that it's on the menu this far south of the border, which is too bad because well-made poutine is an absolute artery-clogging delight. Sub-par poutine just shortens your life expectancy for no good reason.
Food aside, Jimmy's offers everything you'd expect from a good neighborhood bar - cheap drinks, neon signs, satellite TV (they show all Buffalo Bills and Sabres games), a trivia night, poker tournaments, holiday parties, open mic night, live music, et cetera. Definitely worth a visit if you're passing through Reston/Herndon, and I can easily see this being at least a semi-regular destination if I lived in the area.Listed in: On The Road - East
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Review from Anson P.
Roanoke, VA
3/5/2010
I've been commuting to and from the Herndon area for at least 10 years and yet today was the first time I've ever set food in Jimmy's. I am a grade A jackass. However, I didn't get to see Jimmy, but I'll keep an eye out for him the next time.
I went with the Buffalo platter to have a chance to try a couple of things. I have no idea if the food is authentic. Do I plan on going to Buffalo? Not anytime soon. The Beef on Weck was good and reminded me of my beloved Roy Rogers roast beef sandwich...only this came with a cup of au jus. Mmm...au jus. The wings were the dry type, no wet sauce on them like the other wing places in the area. Also, the wings were the size of Buffalo Wing Factory's wings. I liked them although next time I'm going to have to kick it up a notch on the spice level. The Pierogies were very good. They came with a lot of sauteed onions and a decent amount of sliced kielbasa. I washed it all down with a half and half (half Harp and half Guinness).
Now I wasn't wowed by the food. It was good, but what made the place for me was the staff. The bartender and wait staff were incredibly welcoming. Those of you following my reviews know that I tend to eat alone. The staff at Jimmy's kept me and everyone else entertained while we ate and drank. Very chill establishment, the kind of place you can just walk in, sit down at the bar and have a decent lunch. The place itself isn't very big and there are tv's placed appropriately such that you can keep an eye on a tv from every corner of the place. Parking is available across Elden Street in the municipal lot. -
Review from Paul M.
8/18/2008
As soon as you walk into this place three important things scream at you:
1. There really is a Jimmy, and this really is his old town tavern.
2. Buffalo.
3. Back in the day, all bars used to be like this, and now too few of them are.
If the corporate chains are making you feel the breath of sadness, sit down next to Jimmy's....
Because those chains are touched by madness, sit down next to Jimmy's
Those chains should find themselves ridiculous, sit down next to Jimmy's
In love in fear in hate in tears, sit down next to Jimmy's
In love in fear in hate in tears, sit down next to Jimmy's
in love, in fear, in hate , in tears....... -
Review from Hosun L.
Mountain View, CA
5/31/2008
Damn, I forgot about the poutine fries.
I've been on the search for great fish + chips nearby. I already tried Catfish Lewie's, but Haymarket's not that convenient for me.
I had the fortune/misfortune of going to Jimmy's during the Herndown City Fair, so it was packed. There was so much energy. It was an extremely diverse crowd of overweight middle-aged white guys. :-) So I sort of stood out, but that's cool.
I went with a group of my friends, and we didn't even look at the menu. Because we intentionally came here on Friday on their famous Fish Fry night. Fried Haddock + Chips with Cream of Crab.
Our waiter was super friendly. He confused us by asking about Buffalo. We were like "We're not from Buffalo...." it wasn't until later we found out that it's a Bufallo Bills bar.
Despite the bar being completely packed, service was prompt and efficient. We all ordered the Fish and Chips. One of my friends also got the Pierogies and I forget the name, but polish sausages as well.
They all tasted great. The Cream of Crab soup was very light and smooth. I wish it had more crab meat, but it's arguably the best chowder I've had in a long time.
The fries were similar to Catfish Lewie's, in other words, similar in size, texture and flavor to Five Guys fries. The pierogies were a little crispy, which is good, and well cooked. The sausages were diced and yummy.
Now to the fish. Jimmy's adds the skin of the fish as part of the fish fry, some people like it, some people don't. I don't but my friends did. The batter is thinner than what you'd get at an Arthur Treacher's. If you've been to Catfish Lewie's, it's the exact same type of pattern. Darker brown breading. The fish itself is a little softer, a little more moist than at Catfish Lewie's. Once again, this is a personal preference. I like dryer, less delicate fish better, but Jimmy's was still very good. At first I kept comparing it to Catfish Lewies, but the more I ate it, the more I enjoyed it.
I didn't have room for dessert, but I wish I did.
I'd like to go back to Jimmy's on a less crowded night. It's a fun place to be. There's a lot of room and everyone seemed to be having so much fun. The smoke is a little annoying, but I got used to it real fast.
I think Catfish Lewie's fish and chips are a little better tasting, but Jimmy's has a much more lively atmosphere. It's a great place to go. -
Review from Steve L.
2/22/2010 4 photos
Cliff Notes: Great food at a great value, great drinks, and an awesome atmosphere!
I am really digging the vibe of this place. It's got such a "locals" kind of feeling, but also a very friendly down-home atmosphere.
I came here for dinner around 8:00 PM on a Friday night and was sent past the bar to the dining room stairs where Jimmy took down our names. He followed that up immediately with "What are you drinkin tonight?" I opted for the half and half, but my fiancee had a harder time choosing. She is the kind of girl that needs a cocktail menu, so I asked Jimmy to whip something girly up for her. He joked that if she didn't like it, he'd rename the bar after me. Shortly after, a Hurricane was delivered mixed by Jimmy himself, and it was fantastic! The bar won't be changing it's name any time soon.
This place was completely packed, with plenty of people waiting around for a table. Eventually, we scored a table for two. We started off with the Poutine Fries. The hand-cut fries truly do make a difference in this dish. The gravy smothered on the fries was enjoyable, but it really reminded me of KFC gravy. the portion was not as large as I expected it would be, but that's also a positive since I had room for my entree.
For the main course I had the Buffalo Platter which consisted of:
-Beef on Weck: You can really tell that they truly live up to their "Fresh" decree-their sliced beef tasted extremely fresh! However, you're definitely going to need the au jus due to the nature of the sandwich.
-Buffalo Wings: I've had friends tell me that the wings at Anchor Bar are truly the best Buffalo Wing, and if this place has the most authentic wings you can find outside of Buffalo, I can see why. These wings were perfectly cooked. They came out hot, but not overcooked. The wings were very tender and easy to enjoy.
-Pierogi w/ Kielbasa Sausage: No complaints here. The stuffing in the dumpling was very moist, and the Kielbasa that accompanied it was sweet, and not overwhelming.
My fiancee ordered the Portabello Wrap. She said it lacked flavor, but I took a bite of this and can argue the complete opposite. Once again, the freshness in this really came through. The garlic herb tortilla really brought out some flavors that you never get out of a wrap.
Pamela was our server and she really hit a home-run on service. She was quick to ask my fiancee if she wanted onion rings instead of french fries with her Portabello Wrap since we were already ordering the Poutine Fries, and she even gave me a small side of Suicidal Hot Sauce with my wings because I inquired about it. We never had to ask for a thing - it's like she knew exactly what we wanted. She even was observant enough to bring us carry-out boxes before we asked. This kind of service in a full house is exemplary!
I am so glad Jimmy's is close to my house, as I will be back often!Listed in: My Neighborhood
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Review from Curt O.
Columbia, MO
10/23/2010
A fun, friendly place with a fun menu.
Had a Red Hook IPA draft. Not a large selection of beer on tap, but found something decent.
Ordered Poutine as an appetizer. Had never heard of them. Have had "wet fries", fries with gravy, but not fries with gravy and meleted cheese. Something different and pretty good.
Beef on Weck - ate at the restaurant with someone from Buffalo, NY. He said this was pretty authentic. I really enjoyed it. The beef was flavorful, lean but tender. I really enjoyed the bun. The au jus was good and the horseradish was not sauce, but grated horseradish. Had it with fries as a side. With the beer, overall a good meal.
Service was good, friendly, attentive.
Nothing negative to say. Gave it a 4. -
Review from Richard M.
Alexandria, VA
11/30/2010
OK. So Jimmy's from Buffalo and so am I. Loyalty aside, if the food doesn't cut it, I move on. I've been enjoying "wings" for 40 years and know when they're really good. At Jimmy's, THEY'RE REALLY GOOD. Plus, he offers "beef on weck" (so, try one!) and a Friday fish fry supper. What's not to like? The menu has enough choices to please just about anybody.
The service is consistently excellent. They're happy to see you and make you feel right at home. You see, when you come from a place where roots run deep, where family and hard work and loyalty really mean something, you treat people differently. I've been stumbling in here irregularly for a decade, and I always leave with a smile. I always have a great time, with good honest food and a few laughs along the way.
Remember to park across the street in the town lot, and look both ways when you cross Elden St. -
Review from Jesse C.
7/29/2009
If you are looking for a place with good sandwiches and beer then this is your place. A few coworkers and I decided to hit up Jimmy's for lunch. I will say this if you don't want to be around smokers then you might want to go else where. The bar area is the smoking section. If you don't want smoking you have to go to the lower level. The only issue is you can still smell it. I don't mind smokers so it didn't bother me.
I was really in the mood for something greasy, so what better to order but the Ruben and fries. This meal hit the spot just right. This in fact is one of the best Rubens I've ever had. Nice and greasy and tasty =) My coworkers got the French dip and the Jambalaya. Both of them had no complaints. The portions were generous. All there of us were stuffed by the time we finished. Our waitress was very friendly and she was always coming by to talk and check up on us. She made fun of us, we made fun of her. It was all good.
The décor inside is nothing fancy. Just you typical bar environment. Beer advertising all over the place and TVs. The only down side is the parking. If you don't find street parking you have to go across the street to the lot and hope there is a space open.
We will all go back again for some more greasy, I mean tasty food. Good fast service, friendly staff, and good food. How can you go wrong?
