A delightfully trendy gastro-pub located in the heart of downtown Lanesville, Hog's Tavern is an essential stop for the discerning foodie, connoisseur of boutique cocktails or craft-brew enthusiast. Whether you're just passing through or here for the Heritage Festival, this is the watering hole for you!
Upon your entrance, you are greeted by the namesake "Hog", a mounted boar on the far wall who beckons you to join him for an exquisite dining experience. Don't be put off by the "We don't call 911, we use a gun" sign and other fine examples of "2nd Ammendment Chic" decor- the waitstaff simply could not be more welcoming, offering helpful suggestions such as whether a dish is best paired with Fireball or Jägermeister. Here the pleasures are not only gustatory, but auditory as well: an in-house jukebox allows the guest to play any song they wish, provided it sounds like George Strait. And for those looking for entertainment after dinner, there is a billiards table and a state-of-the-art golf simulation, both available for a nominal fee.
As devine as the atmosphere may be, it is in food and drink that the Hog's Tavern stands as a monolith of excellence. My aperitif was what the locals refer to as a "Jack and Coke." To describe this masterpiece as anything less than ambrosial would be a crime against the craft of mixology. When this delightful blending of softdrink and Tennessee's finest passed betwixt my lips, my taste buds sang out in a rapturous Hallelujah chorus!
As for my meal, I was feeling somewhat adventurous, so I ordered the frog legs with French fries. My boldness was rewarded, as to taste the lovingly battered legs of that unfortunate amphibian was to experience, if but for a fleeting moment, divinity. The pommes frites were everything that one could hope for: crisp, hot and accompanied by a fine tomato-based dipping sauce.
To end this wonderful meal, I selected a digestif of 9 shots of José Cuervo tequila. I truly recommend consuming these within the span of no more than 5 minutes for an experience that is, and I say this without hyperbole, transcendent. I was then somewhat briskly escorted from the premises by the proprietor, I'm assuming to make room for other diners, this being such a popular establishment. Two final notes for the unconvinced: the meal tasted nearly as good the second time as I vomited profusely onto the sidewalk and, a true testament to the care taken in the upkeep of the restaurant and its grounds, I found the parking lot to be an incredibly comfortable surface to sleep on when I passed out while waiting 45 minutes for my Uber to arrive.
I close simply with this: if you are in the area and do not pay a visit to the Hog, you are missing out on one of the finest culinary experiences in...
Read moreWhile hiking a portion of the ADT I have encountered a lot of kind and amazing people along the way. However, this place left a sour taste in my mouth. Upon walking into the establishment, everyone at the bar turned and stared at me. Naturally, I said how is everyone tonight? Not one person responded. So, I asked the bartender if they were serving food this evening. Her response was "Ummm... yeah." I said "Great, is it okay to sit here?" She waved her hand in the air as if to say whatever. After 10 minutes or so as she chatted up the other 7 guests at the bar at 7 pm on a Saturday night, I never got a" I will be right with you, a would you like something to drink or a menu in my hand. After a few giggles from the other bar patrons apparently about my lack of service I decided to stand up put my backpack on and leave. I manage a bar and a restaurant myself. That type of treatment of a potential customer especially one who tips well,, is not only a reflection of the business,but also of the community in which it is part of. Horrible service with an overall feeling of contempt and arrogance. I will never return and do not suggest anyone...
Read moreAlways a must stop when passing through the area. Bartenders are usually friendly and ready to serve you, and the game area is great for keeping everyone occupied. Probably one of the cleaner establishments you will find not to...
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