HHHP does Lake Placid

Brett, bartender at Zigzags. He's bringin' sexy back.

Since a picture is worth a thousand words (or at least a few) we feature a photo gallery of today's adventures.

We started in the Zigzag Pub and did not want to leave. We've never been welcomed with such enthusiasm or made so many friends.

Our new best buds, Tony and Wayne

No kidding, hugs were exchanged as we left. Great customers and bartenders. Everyone was eager to talk to us, we gave out HHHP cards like candy and just felt really at home. Without even visiting other bars we knew it would be tough to top this place. In retrospect, our predictions were correct.

Off we went to the Great Adirondack Steak and Seafood Pub and Brewery, followed closely by pub owner Rob Kane whom we spotted about a block behind us. We were warmly welcomed by Tom, general manager and bartender of the pub and enjoyed some of the best beers we've ever had. The Abbey Ale was mellow, warmly flavored and slightly sweet with a fuzzy head of dense foam. The porter was smoky and decadent. Pam had something grape rum based (who knew there was grape rum??!!) with a splash of grape rum and Chambord. It was something like a Grape Crush.

Next stop: Dancing Bears. It was an absolutely gorgeous place. Upscale in appearance with clean architectural lines and a reasonably priced and delectable menu. I have to say, though food is somewhat off limits in the reviewing realm, the nachos were the BEST we'd ever had, both in presentation and flavor. The calamari, not so much. Anybody who orders calamari in Lake Placid gets what they get.



Finally, on our first night in Lake Placid, it's back to the hotel already. We had to return to the Great Adirondack Brewing Company because a growler to go sounds like a great idea. Plus, the bottle's gorgeous. Interesting, but we cut a deal with some patrons who traded a full growler for two Happy Hour in the High Peaks hats. Sounded good so we went for it.

Good Trade:
 2 Happy Hour in the High Peaks Hats (limited edition) for a growler of Porter.

More adventures tomorrow...

Tavern 16 Stony Creek

A diamond in the rough? Set back from the road, porch covered in vines; the dirt parking area and picnic tables are deceiving. Step onto the porch and the entrance inspires curiosity. Round tables with sprawling chairs invoke a shady retreat. No sign that we noticed, just a simple number 16, embellished with scrollwork, over the front entranceway.

Enter and let your eyes adjust to the darkness. Upper walls on three sides are completely covered in various pieces of artwork, some originals, some prints (we're pretty sure the VanGogh was a print), including a painting of the Sagamore Hotel, among other works by Elsie Soto, mother of owner Hank. Decorative panels beneath the bar, each one unique, are also creations of hers. The bar on the opposite wall is adorned with wood and mirrors that were once bed headboards. Every glance reveals some now object of interest, painstakingly selected and collected by owners Hank and Toni. We take a seat at the bar and wonder where to purchase our tickets to this museum.

The bartender waits patiently while Pam surveys the liquor display. Oooh, pear flavored vodka, something she hasn't tried yet. Ken suggests the pear with club soda and a splash of cranberry and Pam agrees. We are recognized by a long lost acquaintance and our story unfolds. Kim wishes she brought her wide angle lens for the photo shoot; there is so much to observe. Pam is eager to check out the bathroom and is not disappointed once she does. It's a little gallery in there.

A pool table is nearly centered in the room, with maybe 50 trophies hanging above it and a few pool cues as well. We know the history of the family behind this tavern so we are not as surprised as some might be. Henry Soto, known as "Pop", is a locally renowned pool shark. Reigning champions for at least the last decade, the Tavern 16 pool league, "Pop's Pool League", is reverently named for him. His son, Hank, has been a member of the Stony Creek Band for more than 30 years. Interestingly, neither Hank nor his father has aged much in those 30 years.

Pam began her fact finding dialogue with the bartender, Ken, and found him extremely knowledgable about the history and the everyday details of Tavern 16 - more like a curator than bartender. When she eventually learned that he was just filling in for the day, she was even more impressed. He was, in fact, more a patron than curator. In either role, he seemed genuinely fond and proud of the establishment and its owners. The patrons, too, are quite proud of Tavern 16, its history, and the history of Stony Creek. On a follow-up visit, it seemed everyone in the place had a story or morsel of trivia they wanted to share: "You don't need a tattoo to fit in here." "The jukebox has the most eclectic collection of music in the Adirondacks." "Stony Creek has the highest number of single men per capita in Warren County." And so on. Tavern 16 served as the Grange Hall in the 1940's, but judging from newspapers used as insulation in the walls and dated 1865, Hank concludes that it was built in the mid-1800's.

Ken modestly revealed that he has an interest in drink creation and shared an unnamed blend with us, which we have dubbed Ken's Creekside Cooler until something better comes up. Jennifer, Tavern 16's longest-standing bartender has a list of her own drink creations as well, including Sex in the Creek and the Jen-Garita, though her recipes are secret and she didn't want to share. You'll have to see her personally for that.

Ken's Creekside Cooler
1 part tequila
1 part Absolut Citron
Pineapple juice

Tavern 16 is open every day, year round, from 2 p.m. to 10 p.m. (or later) and closes ONLY on Thanksgiving Day. Though they don't serve food, in winter months a crockpot of something tasty and comforting is always simmering. During the summer months, Tavern 16 hosts a cookout every Tuesday evening in conjuction with the town sponsored Stony Creek Music in the Park series of concerts, the first of this season on July 5 at 7:00 p.m., rain or shine. One day a year, a Customer Appreciation Day cookout is held as well. We apparently just missed that event. Drink prices are in the low to average range, but a Saranac Pale Ale pint was a little pricier than most places we've reviewed. Don't let that stop you though.

Several bikers came in while we were there and Pam couldn't resist a little friendly taunting. Yes, Pam would have to taunt the bikers! They offered some information about other bars in the Adirondacks that we must visit, gave her more insight about Sporty's Tavern in Minerva, and eventually headed out. Probably wanted to get to a WiFi hotspot to check out our blog on their iPhones or Blackberries.

This is a "must see" tavern. Next time you are in Stony Creek, stop in, but put your transition lens glasses in your pocket for a few minutes before entering. You'll find a warm, welcoming staff, a friendly bunch of locals who like to tell stories, and probably a visitor or two. And be sure to mention Happy Hour in the High Peaks if you run into Ken or Hank.

Summer Tour Begins Next Week

I am off to bring my daughter to "Camp Grandma" this weekend.  She will spend three weeks with my mother,  and I need to take advantage of that free time.  That's the official kickoff to our summer tour.  Kim will be reviewing a tavern in Northville, our southernmost venue.  Her husband was most gracious in offering to come along in my absense. 

I will be back mid-week only to repack and head up to Lake Placid with Kim and our husbands for a couple of days.  Hope to get my first 2011 golf opportunity in the morning, maybe lunch and then start "work".  Already told the boss that he can call me if he needs anything, but not during "Happy Hour" on Wed. and Thurs.  Got to remember not to answer the phone while I'm "Peaking".  So far, that has been easy, because most of the areas we visit don't have any cell phone reception, but Lake Placid should be different.

Looking forward to the Happy Hour in the High Peaks challenge of eight bars in two days!  At least we won't have drive.  I wonder if the Crowne Plaza has a shuttle we can catch?  If anyone has any suggested sites, always glad to hear them.

Totally missed the boat on the Rhubarb Festival in Warrensburg today.  Imagine if we showed up with our rhubarb margaritas.  No one would have noticed the rain, while sipping our margaritas!

Bottoms Up!

High Peaks Pammie!

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Happy Father's Day from HHHP!

Happy Father's Day to all the Dads. We're going to treat our dad to some Jack Daniel's Honey. For the man who has everything! Tune in later for our special Father's Day Recipe!

Thanks, Katrink, for coming by to get a special Father's Day present for your husband - the Happy Hour in the High Peaks hat is definitely him.

Our dad was less than impressed with the Jack Daniels Tennessee Honey. Purist. However, the Father Knows Best shooter was a hit!

Father Knows Best
1 part Jack Daniel's Tennessee Whiskey (Honey or regular)
2 parts Tennessee hard cider
Juice from lemon wedge
Shake with ice and strain into shot glass. Garnish with lemon wedge.








Bottoms Up and Cheers!
Pam Ladd and Kim Ladd

The Sally Miller Smith

Before we start our bar reviews, and sometimes even before we visit, I like to do a little historical research. I love the history behind a lot of the bars we visit; the older and more colorful the better. I was searching for some information on the Adirondacks during prohibition and came upon this fascinating tale of Sally Miller Smith - our new hero. Her feisty spirit exemplifies the contrary attitude of what may well have been the majority of citizens at the time. Rather than retell the story, here's a link to a story which appeared in the Washington Post in 2007.

Sally Miller Smith was a woman who knew what she wanted and could afford to get it. Mostly she wanted to drink. So this drink has to be strong, no nonsense, have guts and be a little rough around the edges. It should also be somewhat historically accurate. They didn't exactly have designer vodkas back then, and apparently bootleg whiskey (whisky - a whole other discussion - 'nuff said) didn't taste so great, so was born the cocktail.

Our version of the Sally Miller Smith is probably a little more palatable than what would have been available in the 1920's and early '30's. Quality control.

Sally Miller Smith

3 parts Canadian Whisky (I know - inconsistent, but when it's Canadian, it's without the "e")
1 part sweet vermouth
Pour over ice. Garnish with a cherry.

Variation: Sally wouldn't have done this, but this ain't the 1930's and we don't quite have her grit:
Add just a splash of orange juice and a dash of cherry juice.

It was really good either way, though the first version is a sipper and may be better enjoyed in the winter in front of a roaring fire. The variation is a little gentler but not too sweet. More 'manly" than some of our other concoctions of late.

Cheers!
Kim

George Henry's - Warrensburg

It's difficult to review an establishment this familiar. With no first impression with which to develop a theme, a last impression will have to do. George Henry's in Warrensburg has come a long way from its heyday as the Warren Inn, where we were occasionally allowed to sit at the bar and have a soda with our mom when we were kids. It's as much a restaurant as a bar now and seems to invite tourists as well as locals. Originally called the Warren Inn, after an actual inn that once occupied the corner of Schroon River Road and Main Street, it changed hands some time in the 1980's and was renamed the Brew & Stew (the Brew & Stew sign now hangs inside), and finally George Henry's, named after the current owners' father and grandfather, George Henry McFarland.

The interior of George Henry's dining room is spacious, with tables comfortably distanced from one another. Wide plank floors and pine walls in the dining area create a somewhat rustic, no-frills appearance. The restaurant area is sufficiently separate to drown out the noise and to protect your children from the barside banter.

The bar seats about 20 people, with ample room for standing too, with a few bar height tables for overflow. Blackboards advertising food and drink specials hang in both the dining and bar areas, and several TV's featured a variety of programming including Jeopardy, news, and a Yankees game. The tavern area was partially filled, maybe 15 people, when we visited on a Wednesday evening. We had expected more bikers because of Warrensburg Bike Week and Americade in Lake George, but a sudden storm, preceded by high winds and an ominous yellow glow in the sky sent them scattering.

Fortunately, we missed the "All-You-Can-Eat" Wings special and believe we were too late for Happy Hour (4:30 to 6:30). We donated some money to NY State by playing Quick Draw and shared the normal portion of their crispy "All-We-Can-Eat" wings. Open seven days a week, starting at 11 a.m., except on Sunday when they open at noon, George Henry's serves food until 9 p.m. in the summer months. The kitchen closes earlier in other seasons, and are known to close the establishment for private parties on rare occasions, but are generally open year round. George Henry's offers live music on Friday and Saturday nights and there is a small, designated area for the band or soloist, but wouldn't expect to do any dancing there.

The beer selection is pretty decent with domestics from the Coors, Budweiser, and Miller brands, and good old Genny as well. Import and premium bottled beers include Corona, Heineken, Labatt, Long Trail, Guinness and Twisted Tea. Six draft beers are available, including choices from Lake Placid Brewery, Adirondack Brewery and Davidson Brothers. Specialty drinks aren't promoted, but George Henry's is equipped to provide the basics and sometimes more elaborate drinks when staffing permits.

George Henry's has been under current ownership for 25 years and seems to want to expand beyond the local pub. Improvements have been made, though nothing lavish or radical, more aptly living within their means while keeping costs down to appeal to the masses. A deck on the side has yet to be seen by us in all of its intended splendor. George Henry's is on Main Street which is sometimes heavily traveled, so the added seclusion of low fencing on the Main Street side of the deck offers privacy and noise reduction, but still allows a nice view of the Schroon River. The deck is accented with flower boxes and beds containing hostas, pansies, and petunias, which Pam deadheaded for them that evening while reviewing the surroundings. Several tables, some with umbrellas, looked inviting, were it not for the rain.

Stop at George Henry's for dinner on your way to points further north and expect a welcoming staff and patrons and good food. When looking for a good burger in the 'Burg, George Henry's is the place to go. Or go on a Friday or Saturday night for live music and an even livelier crowd.

Oak Barrel Tavern Indian Lake

Were it not for the fact that we couldn't find the Bear Trap, we would not have discovered the Indian Lake Restaurant and Oak Barrel Tavern. After driving by three times, we decided to stop, out of both curiosity and the need for directions. The handful of cars in the large parking lot didn't inspire high hopes, but at least they were open. The entrance to the tavern is separate from the restaurant entrance, but we managed to find the correct door and were immediately and cheerfully greeted by Kristen, the bartender. A few small groups of patrons dotted the long, narrow bar; some nodding their greetings. So far so good.

The beautiful antique bar of ornate columns and mirrors immediately catches the eye and looks somewhat out of place in the otherwise ordinary-looking space. Pam asked about it and was directed to read the story, printed and framed on the wall, a few customers chiming in with additional facts. She returned to her seat and gave Kim a brief synopsis, but had to go back and read it again when Kim posed more questions. By that time, she aroused the curiousity of some of the patrons and began her usual banter. They wanted her to notice the twenty-one point mounted deer head recently added to the same wall. "Oooh, that's a very impressive moose," she taunted.
"It's a deer," several of them immediately corrected. "You could pass it off as a moose to some people from the city," Pam chided. Again, the ice was broken and they proceeded to share the story of the deer with her. I'm sure they will share the story with you when you visit.

The Oak Barrel Tavern bears evidence of several influences, evolved over many decades. The bar and shelving behind it were originally part of the historic Old Nassau Tavern in Princeton, NJ. A restoration project in downtown Princeton called for demolition of the tavern, and a contractual agreement was drawn requiring that the bar be moved 250 miles outside the New York City area. Purchased in the 1930's, the bar was carefully dismantled and brought to Indian Lake, where it was reassembled at Farrell's Tavern and remains today. An old photo post card we found on eBay of Farrell's Tavern shows that little of the interior of the Indian Lake Tavern has changed since the 1940's.

While at the North Creek Beer Fest last Saturday we met Jeff and Nina who provided us with more background on the Oak Barrel. Jeff is currently working on a book about the history of rafting in the area and told us that the Oak Barrel was "ground zero" for rafting companies and outfitters centered in Indian Lake in the 1980's, and a favorite meeting place for post-rafting adventurers to relive their experiences "rivering on the Hudson". A couple of framed rafting photos corroborate the rafting influence. Jeff also made mention of "whipped cream incidents" and "flashing", though would not elaborate.

Draft beer choices were limited to LaBatt Blue, Michelob Light and Blue Moon (which they were out of at the moment). There were, however, 24 bottled choices on the menu. Because the name immediately caught her attention, Kim chose a Lake Placid 46er Pale Ale. Not a big fan of pale ale, this one was different from most. A warm copper color, creamy and somewhat thick, with an earthy, slightly sweet toffee flavor and faint citrus notes, the 46er is less bitter than other pale ales. A generous wine selection including reds, whites, sparkling and dessert, Pam was happy to find a white zin. The adjoining liquor store offers many more wine choices, which, with a $10.00 cork fee, can be purchased and consumed with dinner.

We weren't really there to eat, but the menu deserves mention. Appetizers consist of typical bar fare, but at closer inspection, a more extensive and creative selection emerges, all very reasonably priced. Burgers and sandwiches are all priced between $6 and $8. Four pasta choices including the interesting "Absolutely Shrimp and Sausage" range from $12 to $16, along with salads, steak, seafood and chicken entrees and even meatloaf and shepherd's pie; none over $20.

Since the Indian Lake Restaurant and Tavern was not our target destination, we didn't get all our usual information, but we're really glad we found it. The staff and patrons created a relaxed and friendly atmosphere, earning a Happy Hour in the High Peaks "thumbs up".

North Creek Beer Fest on the Hudson

Pam and I decided to attend the first annual North Creek Beer Fest on the Hudson, tossing Elvis's butt to the curb. But first, we had to stop at Basil & Wick's just to check in and say hi to some of our most devoted fans. I also had to re-shoot a photo of the museum quality exhibit of a barstool from the original Basil & Wick's. The bartender was one we hadn't met before, and shame on us for not asking her name, but she was a real sweetheart. There were only two other people there, not surprising since everyone must be at the beer fest! It was hard to leave, but we had to get down to the train station before the beer was gone!

Pam, designated driver, parked the car and we made our way to the ticket area. I got my 5 oz. commemorative glass and 10 beer sample tickets and was off. I approached the exhibitors with a fair amount of excitement, the ribbon of tickets clutched in my hand fluttering in the breeze. Like a kid in a penny candy store with only a dime to spend and a hundred goodies to choose from, I carefully window-shopped the entire lineup before making my first selection, worried that I might spend foolishly.

Thinking this should be approached somewhat scientifically, I immediately eliminated flavors I had tried before. To avoid bias in my study, I vowed to taste different types of beer, including at least one IPA, though I don't usually care for them. I will only list my samples here, not go into detail. Plus, by the end I wasn't paying a whole lot of attention.

1. Mendocino Imperial Barley Wine Ale (Never heard of a Wine Ale.)
2. Goose Island Pere Jacques 2011 Belgian Style Ale (Rather fond of Belgians.)
3. Samuel Adams Imperial Stout (Love Sam. Hadn't ever had this one.)
4. Ithaca Beer Company CascaZilla (Couldn't resist the name.)
5. Southern Tier Jah-Va Coffee Stout (Also a big fan of coffee.)
6. Three Philosophers Belgian Style Ale (I liked the bottle top. Oh, and the beer too.)
7. Peak Organic Maple Oat Ale (I really wish my taste buds weren't numb by then.)

We talked to a lot of people, getting advice about bars to check out in other parts of the Park. Cliff was a wealth of information, and it's a good thing I took notes or I wouldn't remember a thing. We were pleased to meet Michael, one of the owners of barVino. I also conversed at length with Jeff and Nina. Jeff is working on a book on the history of rafting in the region and knew quite a bit about the Oak Barrel Tavern in Indian Lake; quite helpful to this week's High Peaks Happy Hour review, appearing on the Adirondack Almanack on Wednesday. And I think we're doing "an event" with Jared, one of the vendors.

Here I was, worried that 10 tickets wouldn't be enough, and I actually had to give some away! I should have stopped at #6. The walk to the car was a little unsteady. I am somewhat a lightweight when it comes to alcohol, but in my defense, let me just say that I should have eaten before I went, and most of the beers were much higher in alcohol content than what I'm used to.

It's hard to determine the success of a "first annual" event, but I have to say I thought the brew fest was pretty well-attended; I'm guessing about 125 people were there when we were, and a fair number of brewers and beers were represented. I liked every one of the beers I tried, but really, what's not to like?

Cheers!
Kim

Shepard's Cove Lake George

Look what we've been missing since our twenties! At some point during that decade we decided to avoid Lake George Village in the summer season. Too much traffic, too crowded, too expensive, what - pay for parking! When we sat at the lakeside bar at Shepard's Cove on Saturday of Memorial Day weekend, Pam took in the breeze from the open doors and windows, cast her glance out on the lake, listened to solo act Rich Ortiz playing his acoustic music and felt she had been cheating herself all those years.

Our bartender, Jonny, flattered us by insisting on seeing our ID's. We knew immediately that he was going to be fun. We informed him of our purpose in visiting on that day, and after he and the other bartender finished ribbing us about having to "work" on Memorial Day weekend, we ordered our drinks and took in the interior scenery. Jonny answered our technical questions when time permitted. Reminiscent of a young bartender named Brian, whom Pam groomed during her former days as a regular at the Garrison, Pam plied Jonny for some of his favorite drink recipes. Her relationship with Brian had eventually culminated in a "drink of the day" game between them, and Jonny took the bait. Here are a few delicious concoctions he shared with us:

Jonny's Raspberry
Raspberry vodka
Sour apple liqueur
fresh lemon juice
fresh lime juice
cranberry juice
1 pkt sugar
shaken over ice




Purple Rain
Grape vodka
Blue curacao
cranberry juice

We settled in immediately, relaxed and feeling for the first time on this quest like tourists on vacation. Shepard's Cove, light and airy, has a distinct beach house feel. Whitewashed pine walls trimmed in blue add a cool feel as a steady breeze finds its way through a wide opening to the spacious upper deck overlooking the lake. Another equally large deck resides on the lower level as well, with marina for those arriving by boat. Little thought seems to have gone into the decor, a confusing combination of a series of framed black-and-white celebrity photos and beer advertising giveaways; the ladies' room pepto pink. A scattering of both high and low tables provide seating in addition to the wraparound bar, which seats approximately 25 people. A modest stage is located inside to accommodate the mostly local bands who contribute to the Lake George nightlife; an area on the deck for acoustic performers on a lazy afternoon.

We did not have the opportunity to sample the food. A glance at the menu divulged an assortment of soups, salads, sandwiches, burgers and appetizers in the $6 to $10 range. Entrees include a variety of steaks, seafood, ribs and pasta ranging from $13 to $22. We found the drink prices to be in the average range - around $5.00 for a beer or simple mixed drink. Kim tried a beer (of course she did!) new to her - a Magic Hat Wacko Summer Seasonal. Malty, slightly sweet, with a mild hop flavor and a gorgeous soft watermelon color, it was light and quenching and complemented Jonny's Raspberry perfectly. Pam instructed Jonny on the proper proportions to recreate the Grape Crush from the Barking Spider.

We are primarily "Happy Hour" patrons and found Shepard's Cove a perfect place to have lunch or spend an afternoon with family or friends. Our guess is that the patrons of the night are of a more youthful and energetic demographic, attesting to the versatility of Shepard's Cove. We look forward to our rediscovery of Lake George.

Bottoms Up and Cheers!
Happy Hour in the High Peaks

Recipe Night: Elvis Week!

We've been talking about this since the Bakon Vodka came into our possession. Inspired by the mere thought of getting crazy with some interesting ingredients, we buffed up our blue suede shoes and grew out our sideburns in honor of Lake George's upcoming Elvis extravaganza.

The later years weren't the prettiest and Elvis had some unusual eating habits which allegedly contributed to his untimely demise. Thus the Phat Elvis.

Phat Elvis
2 oz. Bakon vodka
1 oz. chocolate vodka
1 oz. banana liqueur
4 oz. milk or cream
Shake with ice, or blenderize.
We used a straw to apply peanut butter to the inside of the glass. For a more chocolatey experience, drizzle Hershey's syrup into the glass.

Next we're on to The Blue Hawaii, named for the movie, which took place on a pineapple plantation. It's more a Caribbean green, but quite lovely. Ooohhh and it's so very yummy!

Blue Hawaii

1 oz. Banana liqueur
1 oz. Blue Curacao
1 oz. Bakon Vodka
4 oz. Pineapple juice

Shake with ice and serve commando.











Inspired by the 1963 film Fun in Acapulco starring Elvis, in which his character, Mike, takes up cliff diving in order to impress a woman, girlfriend of a rival. It takes some shots of this to summon up that kind of nerve.

Fun in Acapulco
1 oz. Absolut Citron
1 oz. Absolut Ruby Red
1 oz. Tequila
2 oz. mango nectar (Jumex brand available at WalMart and other fine stores)
2 oz. pineapple juice

Shake over ice and garnish with a maraschino cherry.

This one's a little less sweet than some of our creations. The tequila dominates.

Never a big Elvis fan, I have a new respect for The King now that I can drink cocktails in his honor.




Cheers and Bottoms Up!
Kim Ladd and Pam Ladd