I found out about this restaurant in a book "Dining Secrets of Indiana" that was given to me as a…read moregift. So when I decided to explore northern Wayne County and Randolph County, this was the first place I bookmarked.
Literally located on Main Street, the restaurant occupies a gorgeous and historic building on the corner. (Sorry, no stoplight to use as a reference point).
Inside, the restaurant has a front and rear dining room, with the ice cream counter and cashier counter on the left. I was directed to sit anywhere I liked in the front room and was brought a menu for food and one for ice cream.
The waitress was very helpful in suggesting the items that are the best/most popular from the list of sandwiches, burgers, soups, and salads.
I usually drink water with my meal to keep calories down, and to have more money to spend on my meal. But when I saw this place offered Green River Phosphates, I had to get one. I grew up in a small town and our local drug store had a soda fountain where I could order one of these drinks. Emerald green in color, the lemon lime flavor is just a bit different from the other mass produced brands. I like it best!
I also decided to go with the special hand breaded Tenderloin that is seasoned with their own "Moose" seasoning and coated in crushed crackers before being grilled. These tenderloins are not pounded flat like a fritter. Instead, they are left about a half inch thick and fit the bun a lot better. The flavor was great! Lots of combined flavors held up with the lettuce, tomato, mayo, and mustard I added. I would highly recommend!
I was a bit disappointed with the house made chips. They deep fry them as ordered. However, I think they overloaded the basket since the chips looked done, but about half remained soggy without crisping. Those tend to hold the oil taste and were left unfinished.
The service was close to full service with the exception that when the bill is brought, you pay at the counter. My waitress was friendly, helpful, and checked in to make sure the flavor of the sandwich was good (that was before I got to the flimsy chips).
The interior has lots of memorabilia and photos on the walls to give it some of the small town charm. I would like to return to try one of their burger/bacon combos that are topped with onion rings. I made to do some hiking before AND after that!
Note: I don't believe there is any connection between this restaurant and the ice cream shops in Bloomington and Nashville, IN.
Review #2588