Tavern On the Main

Beautiful weather so I'm in search of a place with outdoor seating, preferably somewhere we haven't been to.  Lot's of solid reviews here, so we make the drive.  Place is empty inside and just a few tables filled outside.  Usually that's not a good sign.

Our server was very nice, but the food was slow coming.  Had to try to explain to the rest of the family what a brioche bun was.  Over-priced Sprecter's root beer for the kiddos.  Kids got burgers and they were happy.  Wife had them make a Turkey Reuben w/ Cole Slaw - not on the menu, but they were happy to do it.  It was good.

I decided on the Cajun Chicken Grill.  It's been a long time since I've had one.  We used to love the one at Cooker's before that chain went bye-bye many years ago.  It's one of the few menu items that I repeatedly ordered anywhere.  So, with a bit of anticipation I get the TOTM version.  Looks good.  First bite reaction - too salty and not enough real flavor.  At least it was fairly juicy.  I'll try something different next time.

Good sandwiches and burgers. The salmon was a little overdone. Overall positive experience on the patio.

For my 100th review in 2013 I wanted to make it a good one so here y'all go...

From the outside you wouldn't think this place would be more than your typical bar and grille but it's definitely worth a looksee. We stopped in here after first getting shafted at Black Lotus and then realizing that our second choice, Due Venti, was closed this week for renovation or some such thing. The nearest third option was TOTM and it was a fantastic discovery!

When we walked in, the dining room was clearing out but we braved the falling temp and decided to sit on their patio. We were immediately greeted by Lisa our server, who if you haven't had the pleasure, was wonderful and gracious throughout the whole experience. She took our drink order right off the bat...and while I'm on topic let me add that I'm glad we ended up here rather than the Lotus because the beer selection here is far better, covering a nice cross section of microbrews from Michigan and beyond.

We glanced over the menu and ordered....for my lady friend the Santorini Horiatiki salad and for me the Chili Lime Tilapia. But before I go there let me tangent for a minute. I'm going to presume that they pride themselves on their fish entrees since there wasn't a meat option amongst them...that said I'm not a fan of cooked fish while I do love me some sushi...odd I know but regardless, I didn't want a sandwich or a burger so I was left with fish, all of which sounded wonderfully tasty actually. Being a fan of Tilapia when I do eat fish the Chili Lime was an interesting read and it sounded like something I'd make at home so it was a no brainer. It came with tartar sauce, salad or coleslaw and baby baker potatoes. The baby bakers were the perfect bite size potato and the dusting of seasoning salt made these crave worthy!! The Tilapia though was out of control delicious. It had a really thin breading and I'm guessing was pan fried but the flavors going on were delicate while still perfectly satisfying. I loved this dish!! I'm going to make this at home once I figure out how they did their breading. My coleslaw didn't come but Lisa was apologetic and accommodating about it and to be honest I'm not a huge fan of salad or coleslaw so it made no never mind to me.

My special ladyfriend's salad, the Santorini, was gorgeous! With cucumbers, red onion, black olives, Roma tomatoes, feta, grilled chicken and Oregano with a Greek dressing, I had a few bites and it was ridiculous! Lisa told her that this would be her new favorite salad and she was absolutely right. It's pretty fantastic and if you're not into leafy greens this is right up your alley.

The service here was really on point down to Lisa putting our order in before her party of twelve's, ensuring that we wouldn't go hungry while waiting. She was a total sweetheart and the rest of the staff was all friendly too. I hadn't heard of the TOTM before yesterday but we'll be back for sure for the patio and the food!