Griffin B.
Yelp
One of the things people say about Pub n Sub is that it hasn't changed in ages. But I think that's not true. In fact, I think it has changed with the times remarkably well. But what is it that's changed?
Is it the menu? Not really. Since a cursory glance shows it to be practically the same as it's ever been. The pizza here is some of the best pub pies you'll find in Reno. Coming out of the ovens piping hot, and loaded with cheese and toppings. One choice which I was recently turned onto is the seemingly incongruous idea of the Vegetarian Pizza and adding their house-made Meatballs on top. Mmmmmm! Superbly Delicious! You've also got to try their legendary garlic chips, which I could eat a mountain of. Then the menu is rounded out with assorted other choices like wings, burgers, salads, and sandwiches. And of course, beer that flows by the pint or by the pitcher, with big names and a few craft handles to choose from. And all for prices that are still really decent for the quality you get.
Could it be the atmosphere that's changed? I think that is certainly not the case. The inside layout and décor just radiate the vibes of a vintage neighborhood establishment. Sports and beer merch on the walls. Whatever game being broadcast up on the screens. Pool table and fireplace adorning opposite corners. An aesthetic that hasn't been updated in decades, and gives you that twinge of nostalgia, even if this is your first time here.
Maybe it's the customers who've changed? Well, that may be nearer the mark. Every time I swing by the joint is hopping. Come by on a weekday and you can find it lively. On the weekends, typically full. When classes are in session, persistently packed to the gills, trusting to your good luck to find parking on the same block. Been a place a lot of us UNR alums and longtime Renoites alike and have been loving for years. And I think that segues into what's changed. It's us.
Pub n Sub used to seem to have a reputation as just a college dive. But walk in there now, and there are folks of all ages, groups of all sizes. Heck, the backyard area was packed with TWO concurrent kids' birthday parties when I was recently here last. This is just a place you want to come back to again and again. Loving it as a hangout in younger days, and remembering the good food and good times, and knowing it is a solid bet when you just gotta have a pint and a pie. A place that just got better with age, and where I'll certainly be stopping by again.
Cheers!