23 June 2012 - The House Tavern Burger and Fries

Most bars in the neighborhood have a grill. In my opinion, not many of them know how to use it. Today I want to discuss a bar that uses their grill, and uses it well. I am discussing The House Tavern. The bar is rather small, and cozy. A little like hanging out in a buddy’s Man-Cave. I have been in here a few times, but never sampled the food, figuring it would be like all the others. Tonight I finally broke down and tried it. I ordered the burger with fries. As you know, I eat the sides first, especially with a burger, because I absolutely attest cold fries. When this plate hit the table, I knew I was in for a treat. The fries were a golden brown, and were still sizzling. The burger was served open faced with the top bun on the side. The meat was covered with Swiss, as had been requested, and a slew of onions. The burger was nestled on its bed of lettuce, with fresh cut Grainger tomatoes to the side. I love a place that allows you to dress your own meal, and even more, a place that values local produce. So back to the fries, golden brown, sizzling hot, home cut fries. They came unsalted, which to me is a plus because I get to choose how much salt I need. I tossed a little salt their way, spread out some Ketchup, and tried the first one. I have never had to wait for fries to cool down to eat them, until tonight. When they were finally cool enough, I dove in and before I knew it, the last fry was on my fork, where did they all go, I know there more around here somewhere. I was a little sad that they were all gone, but this did leave me a chance to attack the burger. This burger was a true culinary treat from the first succulent bite, to the last morsel. Every bite was a moist meaty entrance to a long past skill. It was grilled to perfection, medium well but still juicy. The lettuce was fresh and unwilted, providing burst of juice to mix in with the meat’s juices. The Swiss added a slight tanginess to counterbalance the sweet fresh tomatoes. This burger was well thought, and well executed. Needless to say when the owner recommended I try the “OpenHouse” burger served with grilled onions and Swiss, I am 100% sure that I will try it, and have told her so. And let me tell you, there is no way that I know, to truly justify how perfect this burger was, so please, go try it on your own. A true 5 out of 5 bites.