ANN ARBOR, MI – A community-oriented pub that launched three years ago in southeast Ann Arbor has grown into a neighborhood hot spot.
Monty’s Public House opened in a popular strip mall spot in April 2022 after extensive renovations to the former Banfield’s Bar and Grill.
Situated on the border between the city’s Mitchell and Forestbrooke neighborhoods, owner Micah Bartelme envisioned the space as a local hangout for a mostly residential corner of the city with a different vibe than downtown.
When the English-style pub opened, Monty’s specialized in international-style dishes like bangers and mash, shepherd’s pie, blackened pork chops and even fried alligator.
A menu revamp about six months later meant swapping some English-style pub dishes with more traditional bar food including house-made mozzarella sticks, loaded nachos and street-style tacos.
Best-sellers still include the classic hand-battered fish and chips; the Monty burger, which Brodeur calls a play on McDonald’s Big Mac; and the nachos, which feature house-made chips covered with shredded cheese, black beans, pico de gallo and generous helpings of guacamole and sour cream.
Over the last three years, community feedback has helped further shape the restaurant, according to general manager John Brodeur.
“I think we’re now established as the go-to place in the neighborhood,” he said. “It’s a really awesome feeling... our motto has always been ‘Your second home.’ We want you to feel comfortable and loved, to have a great time every time you come in.”
Monty’s sports bar roots are reflected in wall-to-wall murals of Michigan football scenes made from black-and-white Ann Arbor News file photos.
An entry stairwell features a “Good Pup Wall” showcasing the pets of employees and customers alike. The restaurant’s lower level was recently remodeled as an event space with billiards, darts and its own private bar.
In keeping with its neighborhood bar inspiration, Monty’s features a game room loaded with pinball machines, air hockey and darts.
People or organizations can rent Monty’s entire lower level for events, while the game room is a popular spot for families and large groups. Brodeur says both floors of the bar were packed to the gills for major sporting events like Detroit Lions playoff games and Michigan football’s postseason run.
Customers can visit the Monty’s website to place carryout orders, reserve space for private events or check out the restaurant’s weekday food specials.
Monty’s Public House, 3140 Packard St., is open 11:30 am. to 10 p.m. Sunday through Wednesday; 11:30 a.m. to 11 p.m. Thursday; and 11:30 a.m. to midnight Friday and Saturday.