TAPHOUSE GRILLE
344 French Hill Road, Wayne
973-832-4141
taphousenj.com
Hours: Sun-Wed, 11:30 am–10:30 pm; Thurs–Fri, 11:30 am–midnight; Sat, 1 pm–midnight (11 pm–midnight, pizza only).
Price: $$
Style: Modern tavern with lively bar and cheery dining room highlighted by vaulted brick ceiling. The room is a bit loud, though not to the point of annoyance.
Don’t miss: Braised short rib tacos as a starter ($12). The shredded meat is ale-and-apple braised for sweetness and served with pickled red onion and chipotle cream. Perfection. The pulled chicken tostada ($10) is another spot-on starter. The steakhouse burger ($14), topped with applewood-smoked bacon, aged cheddar and house steak sauce, was ordered medium and cooked medium. The accompanying tempura onion rings were exceptional. The eight entrées top out at $27 for a grilled New York strip. A bargain at $18, the beer bratwurst plate presents three tasty brats served with applewood-smoked bacon, lager-infused sauerkraut, roasted potatoes and whole-grain mustard. Five salads range from $7 to $11 and can be topped with chicken, beef or shrimp at extra cost. The sandwich menu includes a Cubano ($10) and a blackened fish ($14). There are five pastas and six bar-sized pizzas.
Heads Up: TapHouse lives up to its name with a frequently updated selection of at least 24 craft beers on tap. Choose a flight of any four 5-ounce pours ($10). Tuesday is Burger & Beer Night, with a special menu of burgers with any draft for $15.
The Scoop: Chef Bryan Cioletti, a native of nearby Totowa, was previously executive chef at the Montville Inn. TapHouse Grille opened in December 2010 at the site of the old French Hill Inn.
What are Quick Bites? Short takes on casual, affordable dining.
Restaurant Details
- Cuisine Type:American - Modern
- Price Range:Moderate