Merlins Rest

We had the most amazing private party at Merlin's Rest! The Merlin's Rest team was incredible every step of the way. This was a last-minute event and Nichole was incredibly responsive and worked with us to choose a dairy-free menu of appetizers to share family style. When we arrived, they had two long tables set up for our group of 25 people. Our server, Aaron, went above-and-beyond making sure everyone was taken care of (and navigating drink tickets!), helping us play the engagement video on the tv, and just bringing the best vibes! We're so grateful this event came together as wonderfully as it did. 10/10 recommend!

Anything on the menu with mushrooms is godly. The best burger I've had all summer was the mushroom Swiss I ordered from here. Everyone else in my group agreed their food was amazing, but man I still dream about that burger. I had a lot of great mead and cider while I was there and I'm so coming back for more soon.

Nice bar with above-average pub fare. I got the Celtic Knot (big pretzel), and it was very good, fresh and warm and just the right amount of salt. My dining partner got the naked Pub Wings, which were just excellent. Her gin and tonic was very heavy on the gin, so much so that it was a little hard to drink. The waitress did eventually bring some extra tonic, but by that time her drink was almost finished. The service was not overly attentive, but not bad either. We waited a very long time for the check, but that's ok. Reasonable prices. Will return. Note: the air conditioning was way too cold!

We loooove Merlins Rest Pub first because of the whisky selection, but also because of the food and the fun events they hold there. We come here often, and usually I eat a pasty or a meat pie-- which are always solid. This time around, we just ordered appetizers (sausage rolls and tater tots) along with some scotch. We love when they invite whisky brand ambassadors and have exclusive tastings, or on Burns Night, when they serve haggis. The bartenders are nice and very knowledgeable. The scotch selection is top-notch. We have found a few "unicorn" bottles here (we may or may not have finished them off...😉). They're also one of the few British pubs in town that serve a Pimm's Cup, so huzzah!

The food is delicious and the portions are well sized. The prices are reasonable. If you get the Brussel sprouts, makes sure to get the bacon, it's worth it. The restaurant is clean with a relaxed fun atmosphere. The live music on Saturday nights is enjoyable and the acts are usually very talented. The service is very good with the right amount of attention without hovering. Parking along Lake Street can be tight, but there is always plenty of parking on the side streets.