The Brass Ring, 701 E. Washington Ave., is a sprawling expanse with high ceilings and exposed brick, a plethora of pool tables, and picture windows overlooking scenic East Washington. There are a lot of bars around town that host Team Trivia, but Larry Walsh, owner of the Brass Ring, says his bar is special. "I guarantee I'm the only bar that buys everyone a drink," Larry laughs. "How do you think I make friends? Free alcohol."
Larry hosts Team Trivia on Wednesdays at 7 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m. The game is free, and everyone who plays gets a free shot and a half hour of pool. Winners take home gift certificates to the bar. If you've got a big group, you'll want to get there early; the booths and large tables go quickly.
Team Trivia consists of 20 questions from a range of categories such as Shakespeare, U.S. Presidents and the amusingly vague Things. "Lots of Things majors here tonight," Larry jokes to the crowd.
We strike out early on a question about Mr. Ed, but reassert ourselves with my staggering knowledge of 1950s doo-wop bands. Despite my severe trivia impairment, our team wins third place. Maybe I'm not as bad as I thought.