When searching for a lively spot to enjoy drinks, food, and a vibrant atmosphere, Firehouse Saloon stands out as a popular choice in both Rochester, New York, and Kearny, Arizona. This article compiles Firehouse Saloon reviews from patrons across various platforms, offering an in-depth look at what makes these venues special, their strengths, and areas for improvement. Whether you're a local or a traveler, this guide will help you decide if Firehouse Saloon is worth a visit.
Firehouse Saloon in Rochester, New York
Located at 814 South Clinton Ave, Rochester, NY, the Firehouse Saloon is a firefighter-themed bar known for its extensive beer selection and casual, sports-bar vibe. Below is a summary of what patrons are saying about this location based on reviews from platforms like Tripadvisor and BeerAdvocate.
Atmosphere and Ambiance
The Rochester Firehouse Saloon is often described as a classic sports bar with a firefighter theme, featuring multiple TVs for game days and recreational amenities like a pool table, dart boards, and a ping pong table. Reviewers note a "shabby, dive-bar" aesthetic, which some find charming, while others feel it borders on uninviting. One patron, markmR2237BI on Tripadvisor, described it as a "good size space and not overcrowded," making it a convenient spot for after-work drinks. However, another reviewer, ROCtraveler30, found the atmosphere less welcoming due to loud and rowdy patrons.
On BeerAdvocate, armock rated the vibe a 3.5/5, highlighting the sports-bar feel and firefighter-themed decor. The bar’s layout, with the bar to the right and a spacious room for games to the left, adds to its appeal for those seeking a lively yet laid-back environment. Sundays are particularly popular for football fans, though reviewers note it’s not kid-friendly.
Drinks and Selection
The Rochester location shines with its impressive beer selection, boasting over 40 taps featuring Northeast craft brews and quality imports. armock on BeerAdvocate gave the selection a 4/5, praising the variety and noting that American craft beers are often on special for $2.75 on Sundays. Another reviewer, markmR2237BI, called the draft selection "very good" and the liquor options "reasonable." However, some patrons have mentioned that prices may have increased in recent years, as noted by _mike_fortuna on Tripadvisor.
Food
The food menu at the Rochester Firehouse Saloon is limited but well-received for its affordability and quality. _mike_fortuna raved about the wings, calling them "really good" and emphasizing their value, especially for wing enthusiasts. Other reviewers describe the food as "decent" but not the main draw compared to the drinks.
Service
Service experiences vary at this location. Positive reviews highlight attentive and knowledgeable bartenders, with _mike_fortuna praising staff members Stephanie and Rebecca for their excellent service. However, staffing can be an issue during busy times, leading to longer wait times. armock noted that service can be slow when the bar is crowded, rating it a 3/5, while ROCtraveler30 reported poor service, including being ignored by staff distracted by personal activities.
Overall Rating
The Rochester Firehouse Saloon has an average rating of 3.3/5 based on Tripadvisor reviews and a 3.66/5 on BeerAdvocate. It’s a solid choice for craft beer lovers and sports fans but may not suit those seeking a refined or family-friendly experience.
Hours
Firehouse Saloon in Kearny, Arizona
Situated at 1108 Emory St, Kearny, AZ, the Firehouse Saloon Bar and Venue offers a different experience, blending small-town charm with a motorcycle-friendly atmosphere and live music events. Reviews from platforms like Restaurant Guru highlight its unique appeal.
Atmosphere and Ambiance
The Kearny Firehouse Saloon is celebrated for its cozy and welcoming vibe. Owned by a former firefighter, the bar proudly displays firefighter shirts pinned to the ceiling, adding a distinctive touch. Reviewers on Restaurant Guru, such as Ron Chilston, gave the atmosphere a 5/5, praising the expansive outdoor area where live music performances take place. The venue also features a game room with air hockey, making it a versatile spot for entertainment. michael hoffman described it as an "incredible little neighborhood place," particularly welcoming to motorcyclists.
The back building is a standout feature, with Cynthia Parker noting it as an "awesome venue" for events like a 50th class reunion, highlighting the staff’s professionalism and the venue’s suitability for large gatherings.
Drinks and Selection
While specific details about the drink menu are less prominent in reviews, the Kearny location is praised for its relaxed bar setting, suggesting a solid selection of beverages typical of a saloon. Prices are reported to be reasonable, with Ron Chilston estimating a cost of $10–$20 per person.
Food
Unlike the Rochester location, food is not a primary focus in reviews of the Kearny Firehouse Saloon. However, the overall high ratings suggest that any available food meets patrons’ expectations for a casual bar setting.
Service
Service at the Kearny Firehouse Saloon receives glowing reviews, with a 5/5 rating from multiple patrons on Restaurant Guru. Cynthia Parker specifically thanked staff members Bud, Jessica, Ashley, Mercedes, and Selena for their exceptional support during an event. The creative and attentive staff contribute significantly to the bar’s 4.7/5 Google rating.
Overall Rating
The Kearny Firehouse Saloon enjoys a strong 4.7/5 rating on Google, reflecting its popularity as a community hub and event venue. Its small-town charm and versatile amenities make it a standout in Kearny.
Hours
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Sunday, Friday, Saturday: 10:00 AM–2:00 AM
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Monday–Thursday: 10:00 AM–12:00 AM
Comparing the Two Locations
While both Firehouse Saloons share a firefighter theme, they cater to different audiences. The Rochester location is a sports-centric bar with a strong focus on craft beer and a casual, sometimes rough-around-the-edges vibe. In contrast, the Kearny location emphasizes community, live music, and a motorcycle-friendly atmosphere, with a more polished reputation for service and event hosting.
Tips for Visiting Firehouse Saloon
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Rochester, NY: Ideal for craft beer enthusiasts and sports fans. Visit on Sundays for beer specials and a lively football atmosphere, but be prepared for potential service delays during peak times. Avoid bringing kids due to the adult-oriented environment.
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Kearny, AZ: Perfect for those seeking live music, outdoor seating, or a venue for private events. It’s a great spot for motorcyclists and those looking for a friendly, small-town experience.
Final Thoughts
Firehouse Saloon reviews reveal two distinct venues that cater to different preferences but share a commitment to a firefighter-themed experience. The Rochester location offers a robust beer selection and a sports-bar vibe, though service and ambiance can be hit-or-miss. The Kearny location shines as a community-focused venue with excellent service and event-hosting capabilities. Whether you’re in New York or Arizona, Firehouse Saloon offers a unique experience worth exploring for a casual night out or a special event.
Sources
Tripadvisor - Firehouse Saloon, Rochester, NY
Tripadvisor - The Firehouse Saloon, Houston, TX
Restaurant Guru - Firehouse Saloon, Kearny, AZ
BeerAdvocate - The Firehouse Saloon, Rochester, NY
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