If you’re running low on ideas for a first date, visit The Annex. Trust me; I’ve done it before.
Nestled in between two well-known pizza places (Mellow Mushroom and Flatbread Pizza) in the ever-expanding Sugar House area sits a hole-in-the-wall restaurant, better known as The Annex.
I’ve had the opportunity to visit The Annex multiple times, and it’s always relaxing, mainly due to the staff, as well as the contemporary and industrial atmosphere.
“If you’re not super hungry, come in for some apps on Firkin Friday,” said Mena Dardani, a junior nursing major and employee at The Annex. “The poutine is pretty good. I usually order the Korean BBQ chicken wings when on shift, partially because they are discounted while I’m working and mainly because they’re great.”
The off-kilter beers will fill you up.
Firkin Fridays entail $3 pints (for those of age, of course) from a different firkin each week.
For those that do not know, a firkin is essentially a keg. Epic Brewing has gotten highly experimental with some of these firkins—from gummy bear ales to pumpkin hefeweizens—boundaries have been pushed in all directions.
It’s an one-time-only event though, each Friday.
“Not many people know about our restaurant,” said Tori Duhaime, a server at The Annex. “Whenever I ask friends in class if they’ve heard of it, most of them have no clue where it is. Once I explain that it is between the two newest pizza places on 2100 South, people tend to get the picture.”
“If you’re going to make your way to The Annex, get our Sour IPA,” Duhaime said. “It’s bonkers and there is a reason it costs more than every other draft beer on our menu.”
Although they don’t chill their glasses, the beer at The Annex is actually that cold (above). A true hole in the wall, The Annex sits in a hallway style space—allowing even the busiest of nights to not get too loud (below). Photos by Blake Bekken
I agree, wholeheartedly.
As far as food goes, if you are into the Greek methodology, order the lamb burger. It comes with a hefty slice of Feta cheese and your choice of side.
In comparison to the restaurants in “new Sugar House,” The Annex offers a refreshing menu that not many gastro-pubs have taken the effort to curate.
As far as gastro-pubs go, Epic Brewing has done something proper. Sugar House lacks many “go-to’s” aside from Sugar House Pub and Sugar House Coffee.
Things are seeming to transition, thankfully.
If you want a change, force yourself to walk the 50 meters past Sugar House Pub, and visit The Annex for a Sour IPA or a soft porter via the tap.
Cheers.
