O'Gradys Tap & Grill

Pride is about being comfortable with who you are. Gay Pride week has begun. For many, it is the time to share their lifestyle with those around them.

For Billy, one of the waiters at O'Grady's Tap And Grill on Church Street, it is a time to celebrate with his family and friends who know he is gay. Billy takes pride in working at a restaurant that caters to all people.

O'Grady's is the type of place to have a beer and chicken wings. Salads are plentiful, fresh and crispy, with many options. Caesar salad, green salad with choice of dressing, and a mandarin chicken salad are a few of the favourites.

Appetizers are what people love to order at O'Grady's and the choices are plentiful. Spinach and artichoke dip is a favourite here. The veggie plate is another popular item: can there be anything healthier and fresher? With all the choices, diners have to be wary not to fill up before trying the main courses.

The 6-oz burgers are made in-house from 100 per cent pure beef and O'Grady's offers excellent veggie burgers, seasoned to perfection. I do not know anyone who can eat 50 chicken wings, but at O'Grady's you will want to. The wings are gigantic in taste and form. Rarely have I seen so many people licking their fingers.

Part of the charm of this place is its enormous patio. O'Grady's will be a hub for the thousands of people enjoying Pride Week while eating, drinking and celebrating with others. The patio will be packed and will echo with the sounds of music, laughter and conversation.

Billy told us his story. He comes from a small town where he felt, growing up, that he was the only gay person. It is hard to be different in a small town, and Billy knew he was gay at an early age. Moving to the city was a joy but what had bothered him the most was his parents. Back then, they had no idea about his sexuality and when they did know his father said nothing at first. His mother hugged him for so long it seemed to last forever. Then after an hour Billy's father simply said, "I love you always, now and forever."

After the Gay Pride Parade ends on Sunday, Billy can go back to his family. For many people there is not a home to go to. Remember people who are gay or choose another lifestyle want what everyone else wants: to be accepted, loved and cherished.

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