Tail O the Pup, Ray Brook

On our way to Saranac Lake for a day of reviews, Pam was whining from the backseat that she was hungry. As we drove through Ray Brook, Tail O’ the Pup appeared like a mirage on the horizon. The giant lobster in front created a bit of confusion, and we hadn’t even started drinking yet! We stopped just to check it out and decided to stay, mostly out of curiosity, but also to grab a bite to eat before hitting the Saranac bars. Technically not a bar, Tail O' the Pup does offer beer and drink specials, so we let this one squeak by.

Red-and-white striped tents sheltered 50 or so picnic tables, only a handful of which were occupied, but it was only mid-afternoon. A collection of small brown buildings, trimmed in red, stood along the edges of the property. Former cabins labeled with hand-painted signs, they now serve as camp store (with ATM), ice cream shoppe, and arcade for guests of the dozen or so housekeeping cottages. The tap room was empty, but supported the wait staff with their drink orders. A small sign over the door to the tap room identified it as Charley Mazzara's Bar, but the bartender on duty didn't know who Charley was and admitted she had never noticed the sign. The tap room is a tiny, open air bar, seating less than ten people inside and a few more just outside. A blues trio performed on the small outdoor stage.

We selected a picnic table and browsed the menu, Pam paying particular attention to the drink specialties. There they were - frozen margaritas of raspberry, blueberry, melon and strawberry. She chose the raspberry and didn't look the least bit disappointed, the $6.75 charge slightly less than what we’ve typically found. At least 10 draft beers are offered at $5 a pint or you can choose from layered versions of the Black and Tan for $5.50.

Tail O’ the Pup has been in business since 1927. A main structure offers a bar and dining, but there was no one in there on this early August afternoon. The establishment is open from May to October from 11am to 9 or 10pm. When we passed by on our way back from Saranac around 9pm, they were packed with cars parked all along the road.

Tail O’ the Pup, like an elaborate Texas roadhouse, is a playground for both children and adults. An interesting place to stop for drinks and eats, a weekend spent here could be a lot of fun, but a week would require a serious workout when you got home.