Boone Tavern- Posted 7/2/08
811 E Walnut
Columbia, MO 65201
573-442-5123
Boone Tavern reopened their doors to the public back in 1983 and since has continued to be a "top of the mind" restaurant when looking for a laid back atmosphere at a reasonable price. No matter the occasion, big or small, Boone Tavern is prepared to make your dining experience enjoyable - and this Wednesday evening in was no exception!
On this night, a friend had called and asked to meet up for some food and a drink, but wanted to stay downtown so we could check out Columbia's annual Summerfest afterwards. Since I've heard nothing but good things about Boone Tavern, we decided to stop in and check out what they had to offer.
Now, I have to admit that I had some reservations in going on this night. I figured with all the events downtown that we may have caught the Boone Tavern staff off guard and their performance wouldn't match their reputation for great service. I'm happy to say that even though they were busy, they were very prepared, prompt and courteous.
Since Boone Tavern is a historical venue, here's some background information that hopefully will give you a better feel for the atmosphere: The original Daniel Boone Tavern opened in 1916 and was one of Columbia's most popular taverns for many years. Unfortunately the doors shut on the original in 1975. The new Boone Tavern opened for business on February 3rd, 1983, and has celebrated success every year since.
The feel of Boone Tavern is best described as laid-back elegance. Chandeliers hang from the ceiling and stained glass dwells over doorways accentuated by the walls that are covered in a beautiful dark mahogany wood. The historical setting is prevalent even with their wall decorations, which are tasteful black and white photos. The outer walls Boone Tavern display huge windows that give a great view for people watchers like myself; you're able to see the people and cars that pass by on Walnut. Boone Tavern setting can only be described as comfortable. It's a perfect place for a first date, an anniversary or just a night out with friends.
The appetizers menu at Boone Tavern is huge and diverse. You'll find everything from their award winning Chicken Wings to Toasted Ravioli, Stuffed Mushrooms Madeira to Potato Skins, Smoked Atlantic Salmon to another local favorite, their Crab Rangoon Rolls. We decided to heed the advice of another friend and take a stab at the Potato Skins.
Ok. So you have your normal potato skins and then you have real potato skins, which is what you'll find at Boone Tavern. All I have to say is Idaho Potatoes on HGH. The skins are massive, fresh and were served hot and in a timely manor. Boone Tavern serves them two different ways: you have your choice of the classic potato skins, deep fried, seasoned with garlic butter and topped with Parmesan cheese, or the Bacon and Cheddar skins, which are loaded with melted cheddar and crispy applewood smoked bacon bits – both are served with a healthy portion of sour cream. We decided on the latter and were both very pleased.
Boone Tavern's entrees are just as diverse as its appetizer selection. Prime Rib, Fresh Atlantic Salmon, Chicken Cordon Bleu, Pan Seared Halibut, Chicken Marsala, and Baby Back Ribs are just some of your options. That's not including their Steaks, Pastas, Burgers and Sandwich selections. Gazing at all your choices could take a bit so come here or visit their website at boonetavern.com to first see their great menu. Honestly, I felt as though I was casting my political vote, but I really liked all the candidates. After much time, I knew I needed to decide so I went with my gut, literally, and tried the Baby Back Ribs.
It definitely took the cooks and staff at Boone Tavern less time to cook and serve our food than it took for me to decide what I wanted. The huge portion of Baby Back Ribs was cooked perfectly and served with a moist baked potato and their creamy Caesar Salad. Originally, I'm from the St. Louis area, so I'm very particular about my Baby Back Ribs, but Boone Tavern lived up to the billing and delivered quality food. Like Ribs should be, you could tell these were slowly cooked, extra tender and very meaty. Being somewhat particular about BBQ sauce, I'm happy to say the Boone Tavern's sauce is a perfect blend between sweet and smoky. Plus, my food portions and all the rest I watched being served were huge. Boone Tavern doesn't hold back.
So now my stomach is filled and my taste buds are satisfied, and then the question comes from our waitress that nobody wants to hear when on a diet, "What's for dessert?" However my sweet tooth was still unfulfilled and Boone Tavern's dessert menu again had much to choose from, so I decided why not finish off the night perfectly. To solve that problem I went with a favorite of mine, the Reese's Pie.
I felt completely satisfied, as I am sure you will during your next visit to Boone Tavern. To let you know how much I enjoyed it, I'm going back Sunday for a sumptuous Sunday Brunch Buffet. Happy Eating!
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Scott Lepp
Food Evangelist
foodevangelist@midmodiningguide.com
MidMoDiningGuide.com
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