Victoria B.
Yelp
Confused, mostly.
I love the Painted venues, they're all quirky and fun and have great food, but painted park underserves comparatively.
Atmosphere: This is where I feel it lacks the most. While the old Parish building is iconic and I appreciate their reuse direction, the atmosphere itself is entirely confusing.
The furniture is huge for the tight corners and spaces. It's trying to be a restaurant but act like a bar, and doesn't allow patrons the flexibility like a sports bar could. I can't fathom bringing 5 friends there to watch a game. Each room has the same issue with lounge/restaurant furniture, where you can be served a full menu of food.
There is one bar that we found available seats, but we were shoved so far in the corner with no visible tvs. It was sad but we watched the game on our phone.
Because of the food aspect of this bar, I understand the furniture choices, but there was just no reprieve from the bulky, inflexible seating. (Think couches, oversized chairs, restaurant tables and chairs, and the occasional high top)
I recognize that it was a busy day (super glad to see that of course!) and that they opened within the last few weeks, but I'm confused about the furniture choices/layout. The other challenge as a woman was the long women's restroom line in the middle downstairs portion of the bar, which stretched through the already tight downstairs area. Functionally confusing.
Food: while the food does align in great flavor and options similar to the other painted establishments, the prices were unruly for the vibe. As compared to pin or duck, park appears to be more casual in nature but a $22 burger with much to leave desired really turned us off. It was a delicious patty, fries were nice, but it was way more bun than meat, and for the price I would rather go somewhere else and be able to watch my game on a tv. I'm a sucker for great food but I'm again confused about the vibe of the bar.
People: the only reason for the stars really is because of how wonderful the staff and patrons were. The bartender was perfectly attentive and kind! Those sitting next to us shared in the bizzare tv-less area and entertained us so much. Everyone we interacted with was great.
Parking: no idea how people park here outside of Inman quarter street parking as we walked from our apartment.
Overall I am more confused than not on the vision: if it's a sports bar or a game bar or what not. The outdoor area while small is very cool and unique, but emphasizes lack of cohesion within the spaces. Maybe will return with lowered expectations of experience or perhaps on a day where it won't be as busy? But will definitely grab drinks and eat elsewhere for the price.