Princess R.
Yelp
Summering in Hillsdale IL in 2017, found Me starved for food with bolder flavors and touch more creativity than what was offered in the area & environs. Does food NEED to be creative? Most would argue no - food just needs to taste good (and hopefully be good for you). But how much fried catfish and cottage cheese is a Fancy Lady like Me supposed to consume, exactly?
Since My fav. QC restaurant was a solid half hour drive (1 way) away, I was on the hunt for something closer. My mother-in-law ran a business in Port Byron for a number of years and she swears by the restaurants there, so off we went in search. Tuggers, like a light of hope in the Port Byron gastrosphere, was the first and only stop we made that day. There was parking a-plenty, not because of a lack of patrons, but because the owners of this joint were thoughtful in their planning. A dark, cosy nautical theme unfolds into their spacious eating areas, both in and out. Their deck/porch also connects to a jetty accommodating patrons who travel via the river as opposed to the road (how posh is that?) As I've mentioned in other reviews, those metal chairs that seem to be all the rage now in casual restaurants hurt My butt something fierce, so I'm not a fan - however, seating along the artwork wall is cushy and comfortable.
THE DEETS:
Service: 2nd to none! All their staff is well trained, friendly, quick to serve and gives you all the attention you could want without lapsitting while you enjoy your food.
Food: JC Almighty. Port Byron, you sneaky minx, you! Who knew? Who knew this wee dining spot would hold the key to your culinary salvation? Well, I didn't - but I sure do now. Buffalo chicken dip - fresh, not minced to paste-like oblivion, seasoned bravely and served with buttery pretzel chips. The Barnacle Burger - I don't even sodding like burgers! And yet, at least once a week for a moth, I sat happily gorging into this one. With truffle mayo and caramelized onions? Tuggers, are you trying to flirt with Me?! Because I'll flirt back...
They also endeavor to use fresh, seasonal ingredients. This was evidenced by a charred corn relish they offered as a burger topping during My visits. The corn was homegrown by one of their most dashing waiters, to boot!
Bad news: I wish they'd do more in the way of their dessert offerings. Tuggers food is rich, flavorful and gut-filling. Their cookie-dough offering, while cute, was just a touch much. After an apple-pie mishap (professionally handled by both waitstaff and management, btw!) I determined that, given time, they'll do better in the dessert department.
All in all: Go here! Tell your friends. Have an impromptu brunch. Go support the IL side of Tugfest. Swoop your partner up for a romantic date night. Have your folks by for drinks and family meal. Utilize this place, give them your feedback and ensure that they survive and flourish. They deserve it!
(I'd have taken pictures, as is My way, but I was too busy scarfing!)