Restaurant Review: Mad Anthony's Lake City Tap House of Warsaw, Indiana

Mad Anthony's is a microbrewery and pub business, operating out of Fort Wayne, Indiana. In 2006, they opened their third establishment, the Lake City Tap House, in Warsaw, Indiana. If you want crisp, cold beer and taste-pleasing food, this is one of the best places in the city!

The fare is broad and tasty: steaks, ribs, burgers, a few pasta dishes, a few Mexican entrees, and a strong selection of seafood. Drinks are just as varied, with a well stocked bar and a half dozen (or more) locally micro-brewed beers ready to be sampled and ordered. The sausage and pepper pasta is a personal favorite of mine, as are the pub-style fish and chips. Be warned; the sausage and pepper is described as 'very hot' for a good reason! As for the fish and chips, most individuals can't finish the portion given them, and will have another small meal to take home with them. Overall, portions are generous, and food quality is not an issue. Side dishes can be chosen or swapped to fit your tastes, and there is plenty of vegetarian fare for those that desire it. Prices are fair and of average expense for a comfortable pub restaurant, with items as low as six dollars and as high as sixteen.

As for the micro-brews, I recommend the dark stouts; but be sure to ask your server what specialty items are currently on offer. You may also wish to order the beer sampler, which consists of a series of shot glasses, served in a long, wooden tray, each filled with a sample of the different micro-brews! Appetizers are tasty, such as the crab cakes, but be warned: Some are less substantial than others. Nachos, for example, may have a pile of lettuce the size of a football, but not nearly as much meat and beans beneath all the garnish.

Service is generally fast, friendly, and informative. The servers are happy to take special requests, answer questions, and give samples of drinks. When the restaurant is very busy, service may be slower, but never inattentive. The atmosphere is relaxed and well furnished. Be sure to check out the collection of historic newspaper headlines posted on the walls! Entertainment is usually available on weekends, with local talent or music performing in the bar area. There is also a well-equipped group event room available for use. Parking can become an issue, since it is rather limited downtown. One would be advised to be prepared to walk from a more distant parking space.

All things considered, the Lake City Tap House gets three of four stars, and a recommendation to anyone living, vacationing, or doing business in the Lake City.