Once a month several of us from a widow support group get together to try different restaurants in the neighborhood. Because the weather was so warm we wanted to try someplace that was waterfront and not too noisy. It had been many, many years since I had been to “Jimmy’s” but it seemed to be a perfect place for our wishes. We were not disappointed.
We were lucky enough to snare a table outside with a gorgeous view of the bay. There was a light wind blowing; we could barely hear the noise from inside the restaurant, and our server – Ryan – was absolutely delightful. At no time did he rush us; answered all of our questions, and even joked with us regarding our questions.
The lunch menu was quite extensive, and included “starters,” soups, salads, burgers and sandwiches, large plates, “JFat lunch specials” and desserts. The drink menu was just as extensive, from alcoholic to fresh squeezed lemonade. The prices varied from $9 to $20 for the food.
Candy ordered a bowl of New England clam chowder. It was a huge bowl and she decided it was best to just order that. Irene ordered their “famous cheeseburger” knowing that she would take home half of it.I ordered their “beer battered fish and chips.” All of our orders had their “housemade chips” and they were crunchy and fresh. By consensus of opinion we all agreed that what we had was delicious and would order it again. The fish was battered well; not greasy, and very tasty. The cheeseburger was so large that Irene had trouble taking that first bite. It was hot and well prepared. The clam chowder had many morsels of clams floating in it and was tasty and filling.
The dinner menu had many of the same items on it as the lunch menu, but larger portions, and there are three “early dinner specials” offered. It is interesting to note that many of the dinner items are the same price as the similar lunch menu.
On the weekends, there is a brunch menu offered, and there are a few gluten free items as well on the menu.
There was one drawback that we all agreed on – the chairs that are available outside were uncomfortable. They need to have cushions on them. When I mentioned this to the helpful hostess, she said that the chairs were new; that the old ones had cushions. We suggested that they bring the cushions back.
There was one feature that bears mentioning because I have never seen it before and it was very helpful. On the bill, each of our orders was broken down separately to include the order, the drink, and the tax. It meant that we did not have to ask for separate checks; each one of us knew how much we charged, and it made the dining experience one of less stress. In spite of having the breakdown, there was also the complete total in case one of us wanted to pay the entire bill. A nice touch.
All in all the meal was good. The service was excellent; the atmosphere was delightful and in spite of the hard chairs, we will return soon. Jimmy’s Famous American Tavern
Where: 4990 N. Harbor Drive.
Hours: Mondays to Thursdays 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., Fridays 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Saturdays 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., Sundays 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Info: j-fat.com. 619-226-2103.