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Y! MyWebBar Review
Rusty Bucket Corner Tavern
Bar proves you can't judge a bar by its name
Monday, January 07, 2008
A rusty bucket doesn't conjure up images of a comfortable neighborhood watering hole, but then, you can't always judge a bar by its name. The recently opened Rusty Bucket Corner Tavern in the new outdoor Dayton Mall area is one tavern you will want to check out. One rainy night not too long ago, the Lounge Lizards sought refuge in the Rusty Bucket. After our search for a seat at the bar proved fruitless, we sought the services of the hostess on duty. The hostess was on her way to seating us at a high-top table in the bar area, but noticed she could easily pull in another chair to make space for us at the bar. It was a small gesture that scored huge points.
At a quick glance, the restaurant has many elements of a chain, with a large bar area, endless flat-panel screens, high-top tables, upholstered booths and the ubiquitous memorabilia screwed to the wall.
Extras
The Rusty Bucket Corner Tavern
- WHERE: 2812 Miamisburg-Centerville Road, Centerville [Map]
- HOURS: 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 11 a.m. to midnight Friday and Saturday, 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday
- DRESS CODE: Make yourself comfortable — just not too comfortable
- BEST BET: Besides the aforementioned Deep-Fried Pickles ($4.95), Loaded Nachos ($7.50) and Bucket Bites ($6.95), the Bucket Coney Dogs ($6.95) and the Fish 'n Chips ($10.95) are also a good choice. The beer selection is impressive, and the pineapple vodka is not to be missed!
- IN CASE YOU DIDN'T KNOW ... : The Rusty Bucket is brought to you as a relative of the Cameron Mitchell Restaurants Group, which also operate Cap City Grill, Cameron's Steakhouse, Martini Italian Bistro, Mitchell's Ocean Club and more. The Rusty Bucket mini chain currently has five locations: four in Columbus with an additional location opening this year, one in Dayton and another planned location in the Cleveland market (Solon) later in the year.
- MORE INFO: (937) 436-2426 or rustybuckettavern.com.
- MORE: Reader ratings, complete profile
Greeted quickly by one of the two bartenders, we inquired about a large glass jar filled with slices of pineapple soaking in a clear liquid sitting at the end of bar. A pineapple — the traditional symbol of hospitality — and vodka (we were hoping), was a welcoming sign for sure.
The bartender explained it was a house special of pineapple and Finlandia vodka. She offered two drink suggestions: the pineapple infused vodka served straight over ice with a splash of cranberry or a Cosmopolitan made with the pineapple-infusion. We went with her suggestions. Both drinks arrived quickly ($5.50 each), garnished with large chunks of sweet, juicy pineapple.
The vodka's flavor was sweeter than expected and quite enjoyable both in the Cosmopolitan and served straight. The vodka was smooth, subtle and sublime. As budding vodka infusers ourselves, we were impressed with the crisp, refreshing note each of the drinks hit.
With appetizers surrounding us, it wasn't long before we decided to join in and order a few for ourselves. We chose the Deep-Fried Pickles ($4.95), Loaded Nachos ($7.50) and the Bucket Bites ($6.95) — mini-burgers billed as the "house specialty."
Our food arrived promptly. The deep-fried pickles were covered with a heavy, crisp breading housing equally crisp pickles. Served with a ranch dressing for dipping, the Rusty Bucket's kitchen executed this nicely. It was a tad underfried — enough to mention — but we would order on a return visit.
The loaded nachos, a bar staple that can often be underwhelming, was a hit. The nachos were topped with chili, cheese, onions and tomatoes. It was hard to find a chip that wasn't covered in toppings.
After appetizers, additional refreshments were in order. Alexis chose a Hoegaarden ($4.25 for a 16 oz., $5.50 for a 20 oz.) paired with an lemon. Craig ordered an Oldfashioned, a drink that, when poorly made, can be a regrettable choice. Our bartender didn't disappoint on this drink either. It was nicely mixed and offered with Craig's choice of bourbon.
Beverages in hand, we dug into our Bucket Bites. These larger than bite-size burgers, packing more than a bite-sized taste, were delivered atop seasoned French fries. With four flavorful burgers to a basket, they are perfect to share or enjoy all by yourself.
Next, we ordered the Grilled Salmon Caesar Salad ($8.95). We were impressed that our bartender offered to split the salad for us. The salad arrived posthaste.
Initially, we were overcome with a fishy smell, but the scent faded and we went on to enjoy the salad.
Stuffed and rejuvenated, the Lounge Lizards left with a new image of a rusty bucket and a new tavern we are sure to return to again.
