Lauren D.
Yelp
This is one of my step-mom's favorite restaurants so we stopped by here the other day when we had some time to kill before a meeting. It was myself, my mom, my step-mom, my husband and son.
When we arrived, the place was pretty empty; I have a feeling they must have just opened. It was nice. There are high ceilings and big windows which makes it feel very spacious inside. The bar is HUGE, but it's a taproom, so it should be. We were greeted promptly and served quickly. Some of the items ordered were fish and chips, artichoke dip, southwest salad, cobb salad, children's spaghetti and THE TAPHOUSE TREASURE. The salads were large and loaded with toppings and flavor. I had a bite of the artichoke dip and didn't care for it, but I can't put my finger on why and my step-mom loved it so may be a personal preference. My son's spaghetti could more appropriately be called tomato soup with noodles. No matter how much parmesan we added to that, there was no saving it. Their spaghetti sauce is an insult to Italian cuisine. Since his meal was terrible, he got ice cream instead [thanks-a-lot Grandma]. And last but not least. THE TAPHOUSE TREASURE. If you like McGriddles or chicken and waffles, please go here and order this sandwich. I only didn't order it myself b/c I'm trying to be on a diet, but I stole a bite [or two] from my husband and that sandwich is awesome. It's the reason for 4- and not 3-stars.
Some notes regarding ambience: I think given the location of this restaurant and COVID dining restrictions, they should really be capitalizing on the outdoor dining area more. However, the furniture they have chosen for outside is stainless steel and gets super hot in the sun. I love all the Al Fresco dining that has popped up since Covid and in downtown Royal Oak, the people watching is great so get on it Taphouse!! Also, towards the end of our meal the place started filling up and the acoustics are terrible. We were having to shout at each other to be heard and that is not for me.