It had been many years since my mother and I revisited the beloved old haunt, The Pub, where she and her wild friends once reigned over raucous political gatherings and danced until dawn at the Joyous Lake before stumbling home down Delisio Lane. Our recent visit was prompted by research for my memoir, and stepping into The Pub was like stepping back in time, evoking memories of my childhood spent wrestling with friends and spinning relentlessly on the old, worn bars of the porch balcony.
The newly glassed-in patio offered a delightful spot to watch the street below. Manager and hostess June warmly welcomed us, exchanging stories of old school names and setting the atmosphere for a perfect walk down memory lane. Our server, the multi-talented Mark, whose family's roots run deep in the town, was patient, witty, and engaging, adding to the nostalgic charm of the lunch.
Before we even delved into our meal, we treated ourselves to the fabulous Paper Plane cocktails, setting the stage for a memorable feast. The menu offered excellent gluten-free and vegetarian options, but as someone who seldom gets the chance to indulge in steamers, I savored every bite of the perfectly balanced butter, garlic, and crunchy bread, all complementing the tender seafood to perfection.
We couldn't resist sharing the Spanakopita, and my mother, who claimed she'd only take a bite, ended up devouring her share. Fresh New England cod being a scarcity on the West Coast, we couldn't pass up the addictively delicious fish and chips. Basking in the sunny spot, we lingered over a gorgeous local Chardonnay until the sun began to set, reluctant to leave the warm embrace of The Pub's ambiance.
Though my stomach wished for more room, I've already mentally bookmarked my selections for my next visit back east. The Pub's nostalgic charm, impeccable service, and delectable offerings make it a timeless gem that holds a special place in both my childhood memories and future culinary adventures.