A Trophy Club Address:812 South Central Avenue Phone:(541) 772-4131
Dive bar confidential
Undercover barfly takes a walk on the grittier side of Rogue Valley nightlife
By Chris Conrad
This is essentially a larger version of The Branding Iron, except with hard alcohol and a better music selection. Both places share a
NASCAR memorabilia fetish, which is ubiquitous among America's dives.
I've only been to the Trophy Club on slow nights, but I can see where some serious boot-scootin' could go down on the sizable open
floor near the pool tables. Also, the Tuesday and Saturday night karaoke is always a good time. The singers, some of whom are quite good, trade off
new country hits by Kieth Urban and the like with classic heavy metal tunes by Motorhead and Metallica.
I'm a person who knows a thing or two about karaoke and, trust me folks, The Trophy Club does it right.
The bar is decked out with a large Seattle Seahawks mat and there's shag carpeting running down the length of the
bar to keep your shins and feet cozy after a long day at the office.
B The China Hut Lounge located at 450 S. Riverside is a small neighborhood bar who's
regular patrons are often tenants of the extended stay hotels and motels that dot Riverside and Central just south of the down town district.
The bartenders are friendly, knowledgeable and helpful. The small bar is often active during Happy Hour since most of the clientele are employed
in sales or construction. You are encouraged to order dinner as you visit with the locals and may choose from the extensive dining room menu.
Prices are reasonable and Sharron pours a great Manhattan.
C Ground Zero is considered Medfords original Night Club found at 123 S. Front Street.
This lively atmosphere is specifically for the young...at heart. The DJ generated entertainment is a thumping combination of current top forties consisting of hip
hop, rap, techno and heavy metal. The weekend crowds are often lined around the corner and the $5 cover charge is a small price to pay compared to the amusement
value of observing the young...at heart.
D To provide accurate information about The Office Gentlemen's Club located on the
Corner of Riverside and Main (1 S. Riverside) would require a peek inside. The reference to Gentlemen's is a direct implication of the type of activity found
inside the barred doorway. For more detailed information you may call (541) 772-4079
E Characters Sports Bar is associated with the Medford Red Lion, found at 200 N. Riverside.
In addition to the sports bar setting, local Rock Bands are booked on Friday and Saturday from 9:00pm to 1:00am. The generous no or free cover charge promotes
popular attendance and the ample dance floor is frequently filled with couples who are participants in the trendy Swing Dance groups.
F Habaneros Cantina is a fashionable site for the forty plus singles scene.
The live oldies bands are a fun alternative to the canned musical entertainment provided by most downtown locations. Any version of "Mustang Sally" will
cram the small, well worn dance floor. Just for fun try one of the many varieties of imported, specialty tequilas. Some of 'em 'll take your breath away.
G Howie's on Front is a working class, neighborhood setting, found at 16 N. Front St.
You will find a wide selection of domestic and imported beers on tap as well as a variety of micro brews. The new, larger, full service bar is still stocked
with obvious favorites and Jagger on tap. Yikes! The large high topped tables encourage folks to mingle, visit and move from table to table. The new, much
needed, additional floor space is smoke free and filled with a variety of gaming tables for the competitive gambler. The memorabilia filled walls and ceiling
are reminders of the ever popular original space.
H Front Street Pub and Grill is a brand, new "night life" addition to the Down Town
District. A review will be posted as soon as possible.
I Sloe Bar and Grill review in progress.
J Elements on the Northwest corner of Front and Main, is reminiscent of an upscale,
modern, major metropolitan Cocktail Lounge. The fixtures, lighting, seating and thoughtful comfort welcome you upon arrival. The staff is friendly,
professional and knowledgeable. Treat yourself to the soothing ambiance and meet a friend for a quiet chat, or just sit back and enjoy the enclosed water feature.
The creative food menu is a wonderful combination of traditionally untraditional fare. A very nice experience at a very nice price.
K The Boneyard is Medford's live heavy metal bar. It's loud and crazy, much like the
music, but for all the head bangers around this is a favorite spot. 404 E. Main St., and you may contact (541) 734-4808 for a current entertainment schedule.
L In addition to a consistently good Dinner House,
Porters at 147 N. Front
is also known for their large, open, often packed bar. If you can get in during Happy Hour take advantage of the two-fiddy menu. Surprisingly good quality
food at a most reasonable price. The wide selection of single malt scotch is as varied as the wines by the glass list. The staff is attractive, well trained
and friendly. The clientele consists of local professionals and tradesmen, sharing a few laughs, tall tales and common interests. It's a good location to
meet friends for a lively evening of dynamic conversation and spirited people watching.
M When you walk three blocks north from Grape Street
Gardens you will find 4
Daughters Irish Pub often spilling out to the sidewalk of down town Medford's Main Street. In addition to a
lively crowd, you will also notice a carefully restored, historic building showing off original mammoth support beams,
antique brick walls, and two stories of people gathering to enjoy local, live musical entertainment. The upstairs
level of this popular location is casually appointed with comfortable couches and easy chairs for the patrons who
prefer quiet conversation.