Two Drinks: Jerzee's

Jenny Miller pours a shot of Maker's Mark at Jerzee's . (Credit: Ernest Coleman | Metromix)

Over its 2 1/2 years in existence, JerZee's has built a reputation for being a fun place to go with friends, grab a bite and throw back some drinks.

Within convenient walking distance of Newport on the Levee and many of Monmouth Street's popular late-night eateries, the bar never seems to run short on customers.

My friend Justin and I swung by for a drink around half-past midnight.

The look: A sports bar with a dash of style, Jerzee's definitely has its own feel, something many a bar owner can assuredly attest is no small achievement. The interior is both ample and intimate, with plenty of table and bar seating available and an expansive patio in the back.

Those staying indoors can rely on one of the eight mounted flat-screen TVs to keep them entertained, or take in the selections from the jukebox, which busted out multiple tracks by Lady Gaga (who else?) during our visit.

The crowd: The pub was pretty light in the patronage department for a Saturday night, so we had no trouble grabbing a seat at the bar. Those who did filter through were in their mid-to-late 20s but stuck to their own group. To be fair, we arrived a couple of hours after UK's painful loss to the Bob Huggins-led Mountaineers of West Virginia, which according to our bartender packed the house. Since the heartbroken Kentucky fans must have moved on to drown their sorrows elsewhere, we were probably a bit late to catch JerZee's firing on all cylinders. The gal and guy serving us drinks were friendly, fun and energetic though, which made up for the lack of company on our side of the bar counter.

The two drinks: Apparently not quite ready to let St. Patrick's Day go for the year, we both ended up choosing Irish beverages from the bar's extensive on-tap selection. Justin ordered a Smithwick's ($3) and I went with a Guinness ($4).

The grub: Considering how close to last call it was when we stopped in, we didn't have the heart to order food. But if you're there around mealtime, Jerzee's menu has plenty of options to satisfy an appetite, including their popular Angus burger, which can be had for $6.99 or for a discounted $5 on Thursdays.

The verdict: Jerzee's provides a satisfying alternative to Newport on the Levee's bars while managing to sustain its unique vibe. Thanks to its convenient location, good service and crisp atmosphere, it's a place worthy of your time.