Immersed in history, and Hell's Angel's Beer?
The PubScout is perhaps New Jersey's most recidivist criminal. After having been arrested for the past twenty-five years in historical reenactments as Loyalist Governor William Franklin, I make it a point to visit one of my all time favorite pubs--the Old 76 House in Tappan, NY--at least once a season.
Rob Norden's famous pub, considered to have the nation's "oldest dining room," is a must visit for a variety of reasons. Its links to history, of course, are paramount, and if owner Norden approaches your table ready to talk, let him. You will come away far more educated than when you came in.
Among other little-known facts, you'll discover that the REAL Declaration of Independence was issued right in this tavern to General George Washington himself, after the Brits had had enough of this crazy society which saw nothing wrong with executing members of the aristocracy, under the radical (at the time) idea that everyone should be equal under the law.
That you can quaff and dine just a few steps away from where the British spy, Major John André, was held captive for weeks before being unceremoniously hung from a tree out back adds some special seasoning for true patriots. And the event struck fear into the hearts of British aristocrats. At least Royal Governor Franklin was only arrested, not strung up.
But while Norden's extemporaneous lectures are fascinating, his food is also outstanding, especially if you hit the famous Sunday Brunch Buffet. That grand repast features so many choices--all excellent--that you may not have to consume any food for a few days if you take full advantage of it. And at at just $25.95, it's certainly a steal.
That beer nuts will find a host of good ales to complement their meals is another bonus. Norden's Revolutionary Ale (made in Pearl River) is already a popular Tavern favorite. But it has now been joined by those unorthodox entrepreneurs at a most unlikely venue-- a local chapter of Hell's Angels.
Positioned adjacent to the Revolutionary Ale tap is a new beer called Dark Angel, and it's a stout, and it's very, very good. Norden allowed, "An actual Hell's Angels guy delivers a sixtel to me every so often, and it's strapped to the back of his bike." Based on my taste tests, that biker may need a partner, because I predict this will become very popular, if it hasn't already.
As I have often maintained, beer is not simply a beverage to be consumed, assessed and evaluated. It is tied inextricably to a moment and a place. There is a difference between drinking a beer in the comfort of your own Barcalounger and quaffing a stout in a room where General Washington actually sat, discussing matters of great moment. The very atmosphere of the dining room is sufficient to transport most history lovers back to 1640-1680 when the room was constructed. A glance up at the ancient rafters lets you know this place is special. Which is why I love going there, eating there and drinking there.
And so did my cadre of "Heck's Angels," the intrepid bikers of the PBBC, who joined me yesterday. We'll definitely be back, if just to witness the unique arrival of the Dark Angel.
Cheers!
The PubScout
