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Y! MyWebBar Review
Murray's Place
Kettering's 'best kept secret' is a bar worth exploring
Sunday, January 06, 2008
As we pulled into the parking lot in front of Murray's Place in Kettering, we were overcome with an empty, deserted sensation. Where were all the cars? Were they open? Were we in the right place? Should we stay or should we go? Was this a sign from the bar gods? After a few seconds of deliberation, we decided to try it anyway — when in Kettering, as the saying goes.
As we walked through the front door, it became clear we were in exactly the right place. We may have missed the parking lot in the back that only the regulars, or those with a keen sense of bar parking, are aware of, but in the end, we found what we were looking for.
Extras
Murray's Place in Kettering on South Dixie DriveMurray's Place
- WHERE: 2866 S. Dixie Highway, Kettering [Map]
- HOURS: 11 a.m.-2:30 a.m. Monday through Friday, 9 a.m.-2:30 a.m. Saturday and Sunday
- MORE INFO: (937) 294-933
- MORE: Reader ratings, complete profile
The interior was warm and comfortable with a large rectangular bar sitting smack in the middle of the space dedicated to imbibing beverages — perfect for friendly conversation with a fellow lounge lizard, a newfound lounge lizard or for watching one of the many video screens scattered around the bar area. Murray's was filled with regulars, as evidenced by the shout of "Frank" as someone — presumably named Frank — entered the bar. This was a bar where everybody pretty much knows your name and if they don't, they'll probably introduce themselves. We weren't the only newbies at Murray's. Two patrons joined us at the bar, having been sent there by another neighborhood establishment. They fit in quickly, engaging some of the regulars.
One of the best parts of the evening was our bartender, Andrea Carroll. After a personal introduction, including a handshake, she told us her name and asked ours (and, for the record, the previously mentioned group that was new to the establishment received the same treatment). In a time when most bartenders can't remember your drink order, let alone your name, we were impressed.
Not only did she know how to pour a great drink or two, she was efficient, friendly, helpful and, best of all, we never saw the bottom of the glass before she was asking how we were doing. When we inquired about a bottle of Navan black vanilla cognac sitting on the bar, not only did she explain the taste and how patrons were having it served up, she did what any good salesperson would do: Without being asked, she brought us a sample. She earned huge points and turned us on to something new.
After a couple of beverages, lounge lizards often get the munchies. Our bartender was up to the task. While the kitchen had closed, she conjured up a great snack — chips with dip, a perfect companion to our cocktails.
Our first few moments of doubt in the parking lot turned out to be completely unwarranted. Murray's was a pleasant surprise, with ample warmth and friendliness for regulars and the uninitiated alike.
Billed as Kettering's best- kept secret, we're pretty sure it has something to do with the outstanding service. Cheers to you, Andrea.
happy hour
Happy hour, which runs 3-7 p.m. Monday through Friday, features $2.99 appetizer specials, which include jalapeno poppers, portabella mushroom sticks, fried shrimp, ribs and a cheese quesadilla.
craving the limelight?
Warm up your pipes for karaoke on Wednesday and Saturday nights from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m.
craving something more filling?
Murray's serves food. Kitchen hours are 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Monday, Tuesday and Thursday; 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Wednesday and Friday; 9 a.m.-11 p.m. Saturday and 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Sunday. Breakfast is 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday and 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Sunday.
might we suggest
The Pork tenderloin, Reuben or pot roast sandwich? If you're looking for something leaner, they have that, too, with a menu fi lled with various soups, salads, sandwiches and pizza that are all affordably priced. A nice lunch will set you back $6-10, and for breakfast you're probably looking at $5-8, depending on what you order. Bon appetite!
