J Greene's Pub Will Play Up Kirkwood/Webster Rivalry

Out here, the big question is, "Where did you go to high school?"

For Juliet and Jason Greene, you could almost say they were starcrossed lovers who met at McGurk's Irish Pub as a chef and general manager, got married and made plans for their own pub that are coming to fruition at the former Big Bear Grill location in Warson Woods.

Oh, and Juliet went to Kirkwood High, and Jason went to Webster Groves High School.

The Kirkwood/Webster rivalry is a part of St. Louis history, with bragging rights fought for at Turkey Day football games spanning 90 years.

With that kind of home-grown feud, the Greenes plan to play up the competition at J Greene's Pub, featuring decor and pieces of history at their family-friendly bar and grill opening soon at 10017 Manchester Road.

"We want it to be a place to take your family, but also a place to go with your friends and grab some beers to watch a game," Jason told Patch. 

The Greenes are working on what they hope to be a neighborhood hangout -- on neutral playing ground between Kirkwood and Webster -- and focusing on a menu with from-scratch items, including St. Louis favorites like toasted ravioli and slow-cooked meat, with a twist on some vegetarian items, too. From appetizers to entrees to a bar selection, the Greenes are hoping to have it covered.

"We'll have lots of options; it helps us diversify things. The menu will really be asking, 'How do you want it?'" Jason said.

With the space in a transformation phase, J Greene's Pub will feature a private dining area for event use, a bar and traditional dining space.

"Our goal is to lighten the place up and make it modern and clean, but also comfortable," Jason said.

J Greene's will be hiring 25-30 employees and is aiming for an 11 a.m. to 1 a.m. Monday through Sunday schedule.

"Local history is important," Jason told Patch. "We want to share care and preparation in our food, but we'll also be involved in community efforts."

Juliet and Jason are shooting to open J Greene's Pub by "mid-April, certainly by May." 

Stick with Patch for updates on J Greene's Pub.

What do you think? Are you from Webster or Kirkwood High? Will you try J Greene's? Tell us in the comments.