Wednesday, May 13, 2009

If you build it...

Every night since their little South Perry Street pub opened two weeks ago, LANTERN TAVERN owners Jeff Nordvall and Laura Paisley have been busy slinging drinks from their expansive beer and wine menus. Almost too busy. As the neighborhood’s first watering hole, the Lantern has unleashed the growing district’s thirsty forces. Walkers turn out en masse to pile into the pocket-sized tavern, and nomads from further reaches drive over to steal one of the 12 seats.

But it’s no surprise the place is popular: They have many palate-pleasing beers, from bottles of organic Pinkus Hefeweizen to Big Sky Brewing’s Trout Slayer on tap. And their wine list is not bad, either. Buy a bottle from the local Barrister Winery and split it with a friend.

Once inside, check out the woodwork. Hewn from 100- and 200-year-old reclaimed barn wood by local woodsmith Dan McGrew, the interior is a masterpiece.

South Perry, for sure, struck gold with the Lantern. Prices are reasonable and the barkeeps, pleasant. Once you go to the Lantern, you might never want to leave. But, please do. We’re waiting for a seat. — NICHOLAS DESHAIS

The Lantern Tavern, 1004 S. Perry St, opens Tue-Fri at 4 pm, and Sat at 2 pm. Sun hours vary.

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