This is indeed the week for posting about dining in historic structures. Welcome to the Stage House Tavern in Scotch Plains, New Jersey (366 Park Avenue, 908-322-4224, www.stagehousetavern.com). There are two other locations; one in Somerset and the other Mountainside. But this one, the original, is where you must dine. There is a historic aspect, one that has been leaning on me, causing a desire to dine here since my Scotch Plains-Fanwood Patch reporter days. At that time twice I sat in the legendary building to conduct interviews, but yearned to dine there, and especially have my wife and daughter delight in the experience as well. Mission finally accomplished! First, a wee bit of history, courtesy of Stage House Tavern literature. Parts of the building were erected as early as 1684, and it was originally opened in 1737. When unveiled, George Washington was just 5 years old, and New Jersey was not yet "New Jersey" but a British colony. On the Saturday evening we visited, Stefanie, Lucille, and I sat in the center section, in a room that is 281 years old! I'll back up briefly, detail our experience. When we entered, greeted we were by a host staff that is extremely cordial. When we were told it would be a 35 minute wait, the young woman made it sound like the wait would be a pleasure, and she was very welcoming. That pleasure continued when finally seated and we met Ryan, our server for the evening. Although very busy, he had patience immense, taking care of many tables while at the same time answering all of our cuisine questions. He also elaborated on the history of the building when asked. If there are eateries out there with staffing issues, Ryan's ethic and personality need to be bottled. To start, our "appetizer" was a plain, 10", well done, light on the sauce pizza. Its was a precursor to this: I refer to here to the smoked pork sandwich ($11.95). After reading that description, how could I not go for it. And, also, Ryan gave it a very high recommendation! It's pictured below left.
Thank you Ryan, and thanks as well to the very cordial staff at Stage House Tavern!
Steve
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AuthorAppetizers, hospitality, small plates - the best in dining! Archives
January 2023
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