We were told the Havana Tavern served excellent Lake Erie perch on Friday nights. A group of us went after work a couple weeks ago. Even though the place was not yet packed, our server told us we could expect an hour wait. We decided to go for it. We placed our order at 5:30; our meals arrived at 7:15! A couple of other tables had given up and left during that time. Why did we have to wait so long? Two reasons: 1) There is only one fryer for the fish, and 2) the Havana Tavern has an unfortunate and absurd policy of pushing back the orders for the people who are seated at their tables to move carry-out orders to the head of the line!! Basically, what they are doing is catering to their carry-out clientele at the expense of in-house customers (who are not only buying meals but also drinks and maybe spending money on other things, too). The server explained that it was fair because carry-out has to pay extra. Really? I said. That's benefiting YOU not us.
Next time we'll just do carry-out because the fish was delicious! A light crispy batter on the outside and perfectly done perch inside. No grease whatsoever. There were 8 pieces on my plate, along with fries (they have several varieties) and an interesting and tasty serving of Cole slaw. Not mayonnaise-based which I prefer. Theirs is vinegar, but I liked it. Very small shredded pieces with a variety of veggies in it. There is no fountain pop with refills. All they have is cans.
I surprised that you can get a glass of good wine as well although there were only 3 choices, but still... And like a typical bar, they carry a variety of beer and bottled alcoholic drinks. read more
