Unwinding in Farmington
 Murphy and Scarletti's, Pasta, Grill, and Bar, 270 Farmington Avenue, Farmington, 860-676-0252
December 27, 2006
By MELISSA LAFLAMME, Special to ctnow.com
As the week comes to an end, masses of drinkers scurry to the doors of Murphy and Scarletti's in Farmington. It's a hip hot spot on Friday and Saturday nights and a satisfying escape from rowdy downtown crowds.
The Vibe Inside: If you're out for a night of slamming shots and pounding beers than Murphy's is the perfect liquor location. With three bars strategically located inside, you'll never experience a dry spell like the prohibition period.
But, even though the alcohol is plenty, inside seating is limited. Lining both sides of the off-centered cobblestone aisle are a handful of waist-high tables with matching high back chairs – most of which are usually occupied by patrons, patron's jackets or purses. Positioned in the front corner are black rectangular tables that are equipped with additional seating and suitable for conversation.
Inside is almost entirely wood - giant wood beams start from the floor and stretch into the ceiling attaching to smaller wood beam, forming rafters, bar tops are different shades of polish-protected wood. Even the dance floor is made of long, dull, reddish floorboards, set tightly set next to one another.
The dim lighting is fueled by only a couple of sources – illuminated beer signs, modern decorative light fixtures above one of the bars and two pool tables, and wall-mounted dining lights. Mounted television sets also contribute to the lighting.
The Crowd: Friday and Saturday nights attracts band groupies, drinkers, and socialites from surrounding towns. Midweek seems reserved for casual and celebratory dining – birthday parties, company parties, and even family dinners.
What to Wear: There's no need to negotiate with burley bouncers about inappropriate attire since individual style determines the dress code. Some girls make an appearance in fitted jeans, heeled shoes, and barely-there tops. But, not all girls bare it all; others don jeans and a simple, less exposing fashionable top or tank. The dress style for guys changes too. But, most sport a combination of jeans with a t-shirt or jeans with a button up.
Drinks: The bar serves bottled beer, beer on tap, and plenty of liquor.
Eats: The menu provides a wide variety of foods starting with appetizers and salads and finishing with sandwiches, burgers, and seafood and pasta entrees. Murphy's also serves wraps and their signature pizza pies.
Music: On most weekends live music is ushered in from local bands across the state and country. The genre of music changes by band; it can be anything from modern rock to hot jazz. Regardless, bands booked manage to be crowd pleasers.
Service: When it comes to service, Murphy's can certainly claim originality. Bar patrons furthest from the three bars can rest assured that drinks will always be filled to the rim as staff roam the bar seeking empty glasses and thirsty patrons.
Costs: On the nights bands perform, there is a cover charge of $5.
Specials: Daily specials are listed on their blackboard inside the bar.
Hours: Monday thru Friday at 11:30 a.m. and at 5 p.m. on Saturday. Food is served until 9 p.m. on Monday and Tuesday and from Wednesday thru Saturday until 10 p.m. The Pub closes Monday thru Thursday at 1 a.m. and at 2 a.m. on Friday and Saturday.
Website: www.murphyandscarlettis.com/home.html
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