Chucks – Toledo, OH

Chucks Bar, located on Monroe just east of Secor is a place that I have many memories with. The place used to be dive; really dive. We used to frequent the place, addicted to the signature shot of a particular bartender there: More than a Mouthful. The shot was all booze, and so many different types that at least 4 needed to be ordered (no problem). I’ve offered my share of vomit to that establishments sewer.

The menu was simply sandwiches and lots of fried foods. While the fare was standard and greasy, it was expected, and enjoyed. Some two (three, four maybe) years ago Chucks underwent a huge renovation. The bathroom went from a two seater with no doors to a place that I expected a servant shower me in expensive fragrances. The slab of wood that they called a bar was replaced by a fancy schmancy “real” bar. The managers: gone. The Chucks that was essentially our “first” dive bar was gone as we knew it.

We stopped going. The crowd got bigger…and weirder. But I digress. I happened to stumble there for lunch today, and was…pleasantly surprised. While I’m told that the menu does feature some rather mundane food, my burger was done nicely.

Chucks Burger/Fries

The burger was a 1/2 lb patty that had the characteristic smell and texture of a flame grilled piece of meat. It was seasoned nicely, and the sandwich came with onion, tomato and Bibb lettuce (Bibb, really? ooo la la). The fries weren’t as good. They were handcut and cooked perfectly, fluffy in the middle and crispy on the outside. However, the heavy-handing of their seasoning salt really kinda ruined them.

Either way, the total including tip for this lunch was just over $7, but expect to pay a dollar or two more for any other sandwich. The portion was just right for lunch. Lunch was pretty speedy and the place had a decent lunch crowd.

All in all, it’s a good place for lunch. The lights behind the bar are pretty annoying, but those are annoying even when there drinking. Definitely stop in and see what you think.