Beer, BBQ, and Bluegrass: Summer at "The Tavern"

It was a perfect July evening as I walked down Main St. in Stony Brook. The sun angled its orange sunset across the harbor, glinting off the small waves of the incoming tide. The sound of a fiddle, banjo, guitar, and mandolin danced on a warm breeze and the smell of BBQ wafted in the air. Mirabelle Tavern’s Beer and Bluegrass BBQ was in full swing.

Before we had decided to come on down, we checked to make sure this was a legit BBQ. I’m not in to limp burgers and hotdogs. But to our delight Guy Reuge and his staff had put out a serious spread. Ribs, sausage, burgers, hotdogs, and grilled salmon complete with corn on the cob and colesalw adorned the table. They weren’t messing around here. As for the beer, Bluepoint Brewery had four taps flowing with their Toasted Lager, Summer Ale, Hoptical Illusion IPA, and Sour Cherry Imperial Stout, and there was no shortage. Pitchers were filled and drank as people chowed down on the lawn (usually reserved for weddings) outside of The Three Village Inn.

Mirabelle’s Tavern, or “The Tavern” as we call it, is no stranger to food and beer. Over the course of their time in the Three Village Inn, they’ve been the host of numerous beer dinners and other locaholic events. From using their own garden-grown herbs in their cocktails to always having a local beers on tap, Bar Director David Marzano has done a fantastic job at making The Tavern a got-to spot for good craft beer, wine, and signature cocktails. To get a sense of his style and the uniqueness of the Tavern’s bar, check out their youtube channel (http://www.youtube.com/user/Threevillageinn1) where David shares his recipe for a Bacon Bourbon Old Fashioned. That’s right…BACON WHISKEY!

As the night wore on at the BBQ, a fire pit was lit to cook S’Mores, and Guy was even spotted taking a break from the kitchen to roast a few. In the flickering firelight, a communal vibe descended over the small groups of folks remaining and laughter and conversation was abundant. Old friends caught up and new friends were made, all brought together with the simple things that make life perfect: good food, cold beer, and music.

Luckily for those that missed it, The Tavern will host another BBQ in a few weeks, featuring beer from Greenport Brewing and the music of Good Scratch. So if you’re not heading out of town, kick off your weekend right and head down to Stony Brook village. Believe me, it’s worth it….