Friday, January 8
We met friends at a favorite spot for very casual dining, drinks, sports and people watching, The Lake House on Main Street in Loch Arbor (formerly Parkhill’s).
The bar portion of the restaurant is a generous size, with lots of seats, televisions (tuned to sports), tall tables and electronic games. In other words, something for everyone. The after-work crowd on Friday nights includes a regular cast of characters. I miss the pencil drawn caricatures of local residents that used to line the walls, but the manager, Mike Doman has really worked hard to make this place a reliable, comfortable hangout with happy patrons and employees.
In the summer, the outdoor bar and dining tables with a view of Deal Lake, is extremely popular. Live music is available several nights during the week. The bartenders and waitstaff are some of the friendliest people in the area. The dining room has basic fare (burgers, fish, and pasta) that is satisfying, while not overly creative. That is a good thing! The Lake House is a nice place to bring the kids too. In short, it is a great neighborhood bar, for regulars and summer visitors.
This business has changed hands a few times in recent years, so I’m not sure what Spring/Summer will bring in 2010. Here’s hoping they don’t try to become anything too fancy or gimmicky.
The Lake House excels at being a welcoming, casual, neighborhood hangout and every town needs one of those!
