 |
 |
 |
Archive
Date: 05/15/2010
The Beet Out to Eat: Stone Eagle Tavern
by Gregory C. Johnson
gregor@beetcafe.com
The only way I can think to describe the Stone Eagle Tavern is “casual elegance.” You are greeted at the entrance by two giant stone eagles that were procured from a courthouse in New Jersey. The décor is amazing including a number of antiques from owner Jimmy Vitale’s collection as well as pieces of Rockford’s history.
Doing a bit of research before going, I came across mixed reviews so I wasn’t sure what to expect. Make a note; the Stone Eagle does not take reservations. If you have a problem with waiting to be seated for what might be an extended wait, don’t be an idiot and go there during the busiest times. We arrived at 5pm on Friday and got seated right away, but the place filled up quickly after that. The hostess met us at the door and took us to a table; then she decided to take us to another table; then another. It seemed she wasn’t too sure where she wanted to seat us. At this point, I was wondering if some of the bad reviews were correct. I was completely wrong in my thinking at that point. One thing to note, the chairs have casters which makes it very easy to get in and out from the table.
Our server was there within minutes after we were seated to take our drink order. We also ordered two appetizers; the Mile High Onion Rings (Thinly shredded hand battered and deep fried onions with a side of the Stone Eagle dipping sauce - 6.99) and the Devils on Horseback (Garlic marinated shrimp wrapped in bacon served with Focaccia bread and Creole Bourbon sauce – 7.99). The menu is extensive and took us a while to decide which worked out great as our appetizers came just as we were ready to order. I didn’t have any of the Devils on Horseback, but the others raved over it. I did delve into the onion rings which were quite good especially with the Stone Eagle dipping sauce.
For my entrée, I ordered the Herb Crusted Brick Oven Salmon (Salmon filet roasted with red onions, Roma tomatoes, rosemary, olive oil and lemon – 12.99). The salmon came hot, tender and juicy. It was delicious. I love salmon and I like to try it whenever I find it on the menu. This was some of the best I have ever had. For my side, I got the Wood Fired Brick Oven Baked Mac’n Cheese. The Mac’n Cheese is made with thick pasta, several cheeses and was very thick and creamy. It was very tasty. One person in our group had the St. Anthony’s Sausage Sandwich (Char-grilled Italian sausage topped with brick oven roasted onions and green peppers served on a toasted Ciabatta bun – 7.99) with a salad that came with the house dressing. Another had the Cliffbreaker Burger (A 10 oz. burger with avocado, crisp double-smoked applewood bacon and cheddar cheese – 8.99). He chose the Mary Ellen’s Famous Baked Beans. I had a taste of the baked beans. They were awesome. Our fourth party member, who is a vegetarian, ordered the Our Garden 12” Wood Fired Pizza (Yellow squash, zucchini, red peppers, spinach, exotic mushroom blend, Parmesan and Provolone cheese, sweet tomato and basil sauce – 12.99). The pizza came with a thin crust. I had to try a piece. Now I am from the “I like meat on my pizza” school so I wasn’t too sure if I would like this; but it was great with a great flavor. Of course we had to try dessert. We ordered the Beignets (Puffy fried French donuts topped with powdered sugar – 3.99), Mary Ellen’s Over-Hot Bread Pudding with Stone Eagle Whiskey Sauce (3.99) and the White Chocolate Cheesecake (3.99). I had the cheesecake and it was wonderful.
The Stone Eagle Tavern is very reasonably priced. In total, we had two appetizers, four entrees, three desserts, and four non-alcoholic drinks for a total of just over $85 including tax. I must also mention that the service was excellent. Our server and other staff were attentive to our needs. Our drinks were filled as needed without having to ask for refills. Plates were removed quickly when we were finished. All in all we had a great dining experience.
Stone Eagle Tavern
6445 East State Street
Rockford, IL 61108
815.316.3636
www.stoneeagletavern.info
Note: Reservations are not accepted. Plan accordingly.
Hours: 11am to Midnight seven days a week.
Full menu is served until 10pm.
Late night menu available until midnight.
Drive-thru carry out window available to call ahead and pick up your order.
|
|
 |
|
| Post a Comment | (2) Comments |
|
|
|
| Comments |
|
|
|
|
| 05/21/2010 |
| Gary |
| Your experience was definitely different than ours - 60 bucks for lunch (with no alcohol) and the food was weak at best. Some of it wasn't worth even eating at all. We'll never go there again. Every review keeps raving about how everything is under 10 dollars - yeah, well 9 dollars for an appetizer that's basically two tiny taquitos isn't my idea of a bargain - especially when they weren't even very good.
Glad you had a good meal there - but you must have gone on the right day. Our experience was basically the same as everyone else we've talked to - lousy. |
|
|
|
| 05/22/2010 |
 Sylvia M. Arner
|
| I have been to Stone Eagle twice. Once witha large party of 10 and once with two friends. I was impressed with the food and the service both times. I thought the wait staff was very attentive to our needs and wants. If you are a shrimp lover, the peel and eat shrimp are to die for. They are large and ample for the price. The pizza, pasta, and salads were all raved about. Everyone was well satisfied and thought the food to be excellent. If you like a good Bloody Mary, this is the place to drink it and get a little appetizer with your drink. Terrific! The decor is fun and so interesting. I'd go back to eat there in a heartbeat. |
|
 |
|
|
|
|
|
 |
Mendelssohn Performing Arts Center
|
|
Rockford Area Music Industry
|
|
Rockford Area Arts Council
|
|
|
|
|
|
 |
