Shelbie Harris
News Editor
When it comes time to decide upon anything, from choosing to read the first assigned chapters of the semester, finding a new show to binge watch on Netflix or deciding on what you’re going to wear this Friday night, it can be tough to weigh out all the possibilities.
Though deciding on what to wear Friday night may be difficult, deciding where to show up that evening shouldn’t be, as the Clydesdale in Pocatello has made it their goal to offer something for everyone.
“What we want most is for people to come into the Clydesdale and see all the wonderful changes we’ve made,” said Michelle Guzman, a co-owner and marketing manager. “We want people to see what an upscale and classy bar we have.”
The changes Guzman is referring to are due largely in part to bringing in consultant and recurring co-star of the Spike TV series Bar Rescue, Michael Tipps, who specializes in management and business oversight.
Tipps consulted owners and staff members on what was once The Pocket, who then changed their name to the Chalk Horse until ultimately deciding the Clydesdale was the best fit.
Along with the name change, owners made many physical alterations to the establishment, which included moving the dancefloor from the top floor of the bar, where the bar is located, to the lower section making it much easier for those ordering food or drinks.
“We want people to be able to have a drink on the top floor and have the music just right so they can actually visit,” Guzman said. “But those who want to dance and have a good time can do so on the bottom floor.”
The Pocket, as it was previously known was a pool hall, but when owners decided to incorporate more of a club feel, some of the tables were removed for spatial accommodations.
The Clydesdale offers something special each night of the week beginning with Sunday and Monday NFL Football. During this time, all domestic pints are $1, and because it’s now playoff season, specials that were offered on Monday are now occurring on Saturday instead, Sunday as usual as well as during the Super Bowl.
Numerous HD TVs, as well as a 112 inch projector screen display the games with surround sound speakers.
Tuesday night is dress to impress college night, where dressing up isn’t required, but encouraged. Bar tabs offered for best-dressed and other giveaways are provided. A variety of games are available including beer pong, foosball and bean bag toss.
Different clubs, organizations and all students are invited to come play pool or host their weekly meetings with a discount on food and drinks provided to those who bring their Bengal ID.
Thursday night is ladies night with complimentary champagne, drink specials and free entry.
Ultra-Friday and dance party Saturday nights are social and dance nights with older, classic rock style music played until 10 p.m., and a DJ playing top hits from 10 p.m. to 2 a.m.
From now until March, food menu items are all 50 percent off, and pool is free Sunday through Thursday from open to close, and Friday and Saturday from open until 10 p.m.
Beginning Jan. 15, Happy Hour at Clydesdale has been extended from 4 to 7 p.m., Monday through Sunday, with all domestic pints at $1.75 and 50 cents off all cocktails.
In addition to numerous drinks and cocktails infused with fruits and fresh ingredients, the food menu consists of fresh, locally purchased ingredients ranging from a $6 All-American burger to a $5.50 buffalo chicken sandwich.
Other fried food including parmesan-truffle fries and hot wings are available, and for those who get a sweet tooth after a few cold ones, they have bite-sized cinnamon pieces. Most items range from $2 to $15.
When asked what demographic the Clydesdale hopes to cater to most, co-owner and assistant general manager Sylvia Hernandez said they didn’t have one. She hopes that every different type of person can find something to enjoy at her establishment.
Once the weather warms, Hernandez said the Tiki bar will be reopening as will the multiple cabanas that were constructed late last summer.
Horseshoe pits will still be offered for those interested in testing their shoe-hurling skills, and on some nights the projector from inside will be moved outside to display movies on the exterior wall, drive-in style only with beer and cocktails available.
