About Us

Rock and Rye Tavern is doing nothing novel. We’re so far behind the times, it’s not even funny. In fact, that’s the whole point. We hope to capture the essence of what a tavern would have been a hundred years ago. Not in our music, decoration, or costumes, but with our quality, skill and hospitality. We’re not trying to be trendy but instead return to tried and true ways of taking care of people.

Our cuisine at the Rock and Rye Tavern can best be described contemporary American. We focus on finding seasonal produce from local providers and preparing them in a straightforward, yet creative way that best showcases the quality of the ingredients. We serve the type of food that we like to eat ourselves: flavorful, well-executed dishes without any unnecessary additions.

There was a time not so long ago when bartending was an honored profession, not simply a pit stop for aspiring actors and students. It took years of apprenticing before a journeyman was allowed to take the stick. Parents were proud to introduce their son, the bartender. He was knowledgeable, a consummate professional and a pillar of the community. Of course, that was all before prohibition. Talented bartenders were forced to give up their craft, practice it illegally in speakeasies or flee to the four corners of the globe. American cocktail culture, once the envy of the world, was decimated overnight and until recently showed no signs of returning. The public came to expect nothing more from their bartender than a rum and coke or an opened beer bottle, served by a surly prima donna who demanded to be paid well for this “service” lest a second round become nothing more than a dream. Bar culture became more an extension of the frat house than any kind of civilized meeting place. After a couple of generations, the public forgot that things used to be any other way.

Rock and Rye Tavern doesn’t claim to be the first to bring tavern heritage back to the public. We simply believe that there is a right way to do things. We think that a restaurant should take its beverage program just as seriously as their food menu, all the while ensuring that customers are not only happy, but truly enjoying their experience. A customer should have their choice of beverages to enhance their meal.

We consist of young, passionate but seasoned professionals who are completely serious about what we do, but never take ourselves too seriously. We enjoy the camaraderie of the tavern and look forward to seeing what friends will visit each night. Join us for a meal, a glass of your favorite libation by the fire, made better by great people and conversation. No TVs. No bands to shout over. And, if you want to talk cocktails, you’ll really make our night.