POLER'S PUB — Restaurant in Town of Ridgeway

Poler’s is the very definition of your friendly neighborhood gin joint. It’s that great good place you escape to simply for the pleasures of good company and lively conversation.

My father once told me it was bad form to drink in a pub you didn’t know the name of, or to enter a pub without drinking. Well, I definitely know the name of this turn of the century, 1902 pub: Poler’s Pub. Poler’s is the true original among the many saloons in Medina’s Historic District. With its high wood-paneled ceiling and tall windows, this roomy locals’ haven remains the best bar in town because of its great staff, service and food and drink value.

Ethan Poler, the locally-born-and-raised owner, is an engaging confidant behind the bar, a veteran and just an all around nice guy. The staff bartenders here are just as friendly and provide great service as well. Enjoy a pint or three from an ample selection of tempting tap beers in between rounds of darts (or an outside smoke…or two). The prices here are very reasonable for the area, so I’m always debating getting that fourth pint.

You’ll feel right at home at Poler’s horseshoe bar sharing tall tales among good-hearted patrons, watching the game on one of three giant TVs or listening to the occasional live music performance. The jukebox here truly enhances the cool vibe of the place with its well-curated default playlist playing in the background. The music volume is at a pitch perfect level that never interferes with one’s conversations.

My mother once told me a liquid lunch only fills your glass, not your stomach. Thankfully, this revered trackside bar also serves a variety of truly awesome burgers and other entrees, as well as weekly burger specials. The savory burgers alone are worth your pilgrimage to this popular place. I highly recommend a Poler’s menu staple: the delicious Pub Chub burger. It’s a juicy burger crowned with smoky bacon, melted American cheese and caramelized onions, all coated in cali sauce. My mouth is watering just from writing that.

A freshly served Pub Chub married with a newly poured Guinness and I don’t have a care in the world, I’m in pub heaven. When I was a much younger man — and in this very bar — it was a Genesee Cream Ale, a lit Marlboro and the flirtatious smile of a certain shy girl that could unburden me of my worldly cares and lift my spirit to that same pub heaven. Slainte!

“There is nothing which has yet been contrived by man, by which so much happiness is produced as by a good tavern.” -Samuel Johnson (1709-1784), distinguished essayist,...

The magic of Poler’s Pub is the horseshoe bar—it keeps the good conversation flowing. This historic pub is an enduring piece of authenticity that serves drinks in an honest way. It’s the place where good friends meet. Poler’s also makes a variety of absolutely delicious burgers—the best in Medina! A locals’ favorite, Poler’s is open more hours and later than any other public gathering place in town.

The new owner is a straight shooter and as honest as they come. I arrive at this conclusion for one reason: he proudly displays a large sign on an inside wall that reads [Poler’s Established 2021]. For marketing purposes the proprietor of this family-run business could have promoted the bar’s century-plus operating history, and maybe even kept the branding strength of its former name: O’Brien’s. (Many a memorable night at O’Brien’s!) But he chose to plant an acorn instead. I salute you for the courage of that conviction, sir, and for your military service as well.

How would I sum up Poler’s, the oldest bar/pub/tavern/watering hole in Medina? Best place in town, friendly staff/service, tasty pub grub,...

I really wanted to like this place but the bartender that was there when I went was extremely indifferent towards me. I felt judged & written off by her the moment I walked in. She was not at all personable & spent most of her time chatting with a woman at the end of the bar. After trying to be friendly towards her I observed her walk over to her friend she was chatting with & her friend gave her a look at which point they both started laughing. As a woman & knowing how catty they can be I know this was directed towards me. There were literally 3 people in the bar at this time. I was the only other female. I have bartended. I know that being a good bartender goes beyond slinging drinks. This woman should not be doing job if she does not know how to be professional & friendly towards patrons. I have spoken to other people who have gone there & before I could describe her, they knew who she was. Management needs to be aware of this as this woman will continue to drive away customers. I myself will not...