Dining Out ~ Bridget Dolan's Pub 

The 25 mile drive north to the village of Elk is one of the most scenic and pastoral drives I know of. My friend Jim Koogle joined me for the drive and dinner at Bridget DoIan's Pub. Having dined here many times I knew we would have a wonderful meal. I was curious how Jim would fare, being a vegetarian.

We ordered right away with Jim asking for the vegetarian lasagna and I the top sirloin, medium rare. Patty Sarb, the friendly owner of Bridget Dolan's Pub sent beautiful bottle of 2002 Mendocino Zinfandel from Navarro Vineyards ($24.00) to the table. Jim and I agreed that it is a superb wine and we thoroughly enjoyed it with our meal.

We started with Jim having a fresh dinner salad and I having the French onion soup. Jim's salad was fresh, but pretty basic however, my French onion soup was bursting with flavor with a rich beef stock, smothered onions, and a delightful coating of swiss cheese.

The dining room at Dolan's is intimate, with just enough room to squeeze between the tables. The room is understated with fresh white tablecloths and beautiful impressionistic paintings by Nina Meran on the walls. Within minutes of our arrival, the dining room and pub were full, so reservations are recommended.

Our entrees arrived and Jim really enjoyed his lasagna ($9.95). The lasagna had a delicate white sauce and was really delicious. My Top Sirloin ($18.95) was medium rare, just as I had asked and a fine cut of meat. It was very tender and topped off with nicely sauteed mushrooms. It was served with creamy mashed potatoes that were whipped to perfection and a side of vegetables ... The Mendocino Zinfandel was a perfect match to the top sirloin.

We both ordered dessert. Jim had a rich slice of chocolate cake with raspberry sauce and the combined taste was wonderful. I enjoyed a vanilla sundae with chocolate sauce. It, too, was delicious however, I couldn't finish it as it was too large...At the bar they serve seven drafts, including ... Bridget Dolan's Pale Ale, Guinness, Anderson Valley IPA and Boot Amber, Scrimshaw from North Coast Brewing, Red Tale Ale from Mendocino Brewery. Patty does have a preference and it is the Anderson Valley IPA.

For a relaxed dining experience Briget Dolans is the place to go. Ms. Sarb and her staff are wonderful and add to the experience. I almost forgot to mention the fish and chips. Peter Dobbins, our publisher, considers the fish and chips at the pub to be the best on the Mendocino coast. I agree, having enjoyed them a few weeks back. The fish was very fresh in a delightfully thin batter that accentuated the fish superbly.

Article by George Bailey