The Wycombe Inn, which reopened two years ago as the Wycombe Pub & Grill, closed in December. We were bummed because it is SO local for us and their chicken wings were the best. But word is it has been sold, or at least will be if all goes as planned in early April. The new owners, Joe Wade and Fran McLaughlin, own and run respectively a family pub and restaurant called the Jamison Pour House in Jamison. They’ve got great plans for the Wycombe, including a wide selection of craft and tap beers, a full menu with reasonably priced food and even a game room to keep the kids busy.The new name will be the Wycombe Publick House and the opening is planned for May.
“Our goal is to make the Publick House a community meeting place where families and friends can meet up and enjoy good food and drinks in a warm and inviting atmosphere,” said Wade, via a recent email. It sounds perfect. The Wycombe has always been a locals kind of place, convenient but tucked away just enough. I’m sure this new incarnation will be heartily welcomed.
Speaking of local pubs and such, the Pineville Tavern will be offering Sunday brunch beginning April 8th (which happens to be Easter). It won’t be the typical big buffet, however, says executive chef Drew Abruzzese. Look for some brunch favorites and some new twists on the Sunday brunch menu.
If you were a fan of the french-inspired Rouget in Newtown, you’ll be happy to know that chef Brian Held’s new restaurant, Brian’s, is now open in Lambertville. Held says the new menu is “profoundly influenced by the rustic country fare of Provence and Northern Italy.” The restaurant is still BYOB but more informal with an exposed kitchen and a wood-fired oven. We haven’t been yet but friends – who have been three times! – tell us it’s wonderful. The restaurant is at 9 Klines Court in Lambertville (where the former No. 9 was).
