I had a great experience here. I saw the deal they offered on groupon so i figured i'd give it a try. i went during happy hour so the drinks were very reasonably priced and the food was really very tasty. i had the truffle fries and the duck and my niece had the chicken pasta dish. then, when the server heard it was my neice's birthday he brought out a humongous slice of the chocolate peanut butter cake for free, even though we were already using a groupon. (the cake was incredibly delicious, especially with the chocolate martini.) definitely going back here and think the prices are fair for the portions and quality of the food you get.
(4)
Betina L.
This is a nice place for happy hour Good atmosphere very inexpensive beer The owner is super friendly and does Friday trivia with free drinks for participants
(4)
Jelyn F.
The only times I've been here are for Happy Hour. Their half price menu is awesome... the Pig Wings alone make it all worth while.
(4)
Roberta R.
This is not the restaurant of old, don't let the quaint exterior fool you. The stodgy Newtown of the 1990s is thankfully long gone and this is the place to be for good bar food, conversation with the neighbors, jazz upstairs, sports on three tvs downstairs and the best DJ in town in back. For outdoor dining, get there early, the courtyard is small but well worth the wait on a nice Fall day. Don't forget to try the pork wings and fries, they will not disappoint. Regardless of age or musical preferences, this is the place to be every weekend, starting with the jazz on Wednesday right through to the piano bar and dance party on Saturday night. Don't miss it. For a quiet meal, go earlier. For a good light dinner, go any time before the grill closes, I think some time after 10 which is usually when the upstairs piano bar closes and the dance party downstairs really gets going.
(5)
Dave T.
This is a solid place with a good happy hour. They have a good beer selection, although not as good as isaacs, their food is lightyears better. Great decor and a good place to have drinks and have a meal. The flatbreads and truffle fries are tasty, and are half off during happy hour. They also have some other good stuff like lamb meatballs, and beef shortrib sandwich but i didn't see it on the menu last time i was there. The menu does change frequently, which isn't necessarily a bad thing! I'm not sure what the previous reviewer meant about the vibe being forced, but it's pretty fun when i go there.
(4)
Melissa L.
This place has improved dramatically, nice place for drinks and appetizers especially. There seafood was really good and fresh. They have a nice selection on tap and a old rustic feel. Bar isn't huge but comfy.
(4)
Monet E.
My beginning words to you and my friends are: Truffle Fries. Okay, so now that I have that out of the way, I must say that their Happy Hour is amazing, with $3.00 beers, $4.00 glasses of wine, and $5.00 martinis. Since, I am a major beer drinker, I go there for the $3.00 pints of beer and enjoy myself each time. The last time that I went, I met a really cool male bartender, it was during the week. Yesterday (Saturday) I went for their happy hour with two other friends who have never been, and was waited on by two rather lovely female bartenders. One was nicer than the other, but overall the customer service was pretty good. I love the hometown feel and the co-owner Michael came out and welcomed me and my friends to his restaurant. He and I had some great conversations about travel, beer, food, etc. That conversation added even more to the already homey/pleasant environment. So, yesterday I had my truffle fries (of course), the chicken tamale, and a piece of the mushroom flat bread, which were all very cheap (happy hour prices). I am in love with this place. If you are looking for an happy hour which is Mon-Fri with various delish beers on tap, good wine, and strong martinis, and truffle fries to die for, then The Black Horse Tavern is the place to be!!!
(5)
Mike T.
We went to this restaurant on Saturday the 12th. The WORST experience that I have EVER had. Here is why: -They were running 30 minutes late for our reservation. -Bar was out of MANY beers - Including staples such as Coors Light, Miller Lite and Guiness. -People at the bar told us "good luck trying to order a drink". -When we finally sat at our table, we were then given two different menus. -The Server came and was very dejected when he had to tell us that they were out of Filet, Samon, Flank Steak as well as some other entrees. -That waiter was pleased that we asked to speak with the manager because "they are on the front lines all night". -At that we decided to leave. -We asked for the manager - who was snarky, CURSED and gave us a false name. -DO NOT GO TO THIS RESTAURANT! We thought that they had potential but simply do not care!
(1)
David S.
We absolutely love this place! It has a great tavern vibe to it, has a great happy hour, and when the owner is there, he shakes every customer's hand and thanks them for coming. The food is quite good, granted we have only eaten happy hour food, and very reasonable in price (again, happy hour prices). He also does a ten or so question trivia in the evening and if you get a question right, you get a free drink. Great vibe, good people, good food, and good booze...what more can you ask for?
(5)
Joe L.
Although the menu doesn't have many offerings, everything on it is delicious that I have tried so far. The flatbreads are good, but not as good as the pizzas used to be. Go with a burger and some truffle fries and you won't be disappointed. As far as staff go, the bartenders are all very nice. The owner is usually strolling around making sure everyone is taken care of. I have never been seated at a table, so I am not sure how the wait staff is.
(4)
Jooj S.
This bar/restaurant has terrible service. Our server at the bar was downright rude; I believe her name was Christina. Bumping into us, dirty looks and stares, clearing drinks, and ignoring us....pretty much the opposite of what a server/bartender should be. Christina needs to find another job because she is scaring away the customers.
(1)
M R.
I made a reservation in mid-January for dinner for 4 and was very excited to try Black Horse. The menu looked promising, however, I will never know. When we arrived at Black Horse, we stood in the entry for about 5 minutes before being acknowledged. Then we were told to move to the bar area. When I mentioned to the host that we had a reservation he replied with 'That's nice, darlin', but some people are as considerate [to the fact] that you have a reservation and its going to be awhile.' First of all, don't call me 'darlin'' and use such a snide tone. Secondly, Black Horse had my phone number. Why didn't they call to tell me that there was a delay? We left and had an amazing dinner at Duck Sauce.
(1)
Lauren D.
I know we're only in April, but I can tell you that my dinner here was the best I've had all year. I can't tell you how many times I've walked away from restaurants wondering how chefs could serve some of the meals that have arrived at my table. Not here. Chef Foga makes his meal with one key ingredient: love. My husband had previously posted to Yelp that he would like more vegetarian meals - Chef actually replied to his post and requested that we ask for him so that he could make a special dinner. Last night we were out with our 3 month old, which I know can spell disaster for many restaurateurs - we were so warmly welcomed by the owner, staff and other patrons that it immediately made us feel good just being in the restaurant. Gaelle, the host, went out of her way to find a baby-friendly table. On our rare night out, we were of course interested in libations right away. BHT has a healthy selection of craft and mega-brewery beers (not to mention martinis and wine). The Franzsikaner was extremely fresh and the Naked Brewing Co's Pomegranate Hefe so refreshing. Dan, our friendly and genuinely kind waiter, obliged us with the complete list from memory (although a written menu might be helpful too) - so many great options. For our appetizer, we had the mushroom flatbread. I generally like this appetizer when I've had it elsewhere, but this one sets the standard for all others going forward - nice meaty mushrooms on top of a mild but tasty cheese - on the perfectly crisp yet soft flatbread. No pre-fabricated appetizer feeling here - seriously freshly made and would be perfect for just a night of drinks and appetizers. Chef did not disappoint on our entrees. Sight unseen, I agreed to try whatever he made. I can't even generalize my meal as a stir-fry, because that wouldn't do it justice. The meal had carrots, asparagus, tomatoes, red cabbage, tofu and penne all perfectly chopped and topped with a soy marinade. It's one of those meals that you feel great after you eat it because it's not only tasty but healthy as well. If I hit Mega Millions, I will be hiring Robert Foga as my personal chef. After dinner, Chef even asked me to call a day or so ahead and he would get whatever ingredients were needed for another special vegetarian meal! My husband had the Scottish salmon and crab cake dinner. I can tell that this is one of the menu's signature dishes. At $22, it's a bargain - the nice-sized portions of fish look extremely fresh -- by the way, the crab cake is all crab. I won't repeat my husband's previous post, but it was yet again a terrific meal. If you're looking for an extra special night out, strongly consider Black Horse Tavern. You'll have a fabulous meal made with love in a very warm setting.
(5)
Jessica F.
The food was very mediocre and very over priced service was bad. Sorry but would not recommend it.
(2)
Theresa H.
Had a Groupon for one appetizer or flatbread and two entrees, so had to try this place. I had been there once before just for drinks during happy hour, but we didn't eat any food. Happy hour drink prices are good, but both times I was there, they were out of a lot of the craft beers on tap. At dinner on a Tuesday early evening, the waitresses excuse for that was that they get their kegs on Tuesdays. Well, it was 6:30 p.m. When were you going to tap them? AND, the time I went for happy hour, it was a Saturday! So what was the reason then? So dinner on Tuesday didn't start off so well. Made a reservation on-line, but upon arrival there was no one at the hostess stand - it just said seat yourself. We wanted to eat upstairs, but no one was there. We came back downstairs and there was only one tiny table available (the others had "reserved" signs on them - was one of them supposed to be mine?! no way of knowing since no one was there to tell us!). Finally, someone saw us standing there and I asked if we could sit upstairs. He said "upstairs is closed." So, since it was just the two of us we chose the tiny table (it is a very small area and very noisy with the bar in there). It took quite a while for a waitress to come over and take our drink order. Then it took even longer to get the drinks because she was also bartending! Had I caught on to that sooner, I would have gone up to the bar to get them myself. Food was just so-so. The flatbread was decent, but pretty small. It definitely would not have been worth the $11 had I been paying full price. My husband liked the fisherman's trio entree (I didn't try it). I had the rib-eye and it was only so-so. It was cooked properly, but it wasn't very flavorful other than way too much salt on the meat and side dishes. Again, not horrible - but definitely neither would have been worth the full menu price. Alas, it then took our waitress another looooong time to bring our second drink and another looooooooong time to bring our check. The place was crowded - so why do they have a waitress doing double duty as bartender?? Anyway, we ended up taking our check up to the bar to pay so we didn't have to wait any longer. Bottom line - I would only ever go here again for drinks at happy hour, and possibly the trio of appetizers that everyone seemed to be getting, which looked decent though I don't know what the price was. Lousy service and mediocre food.
(2)
Milo Y.
Cool ambiance. Owner cool with the handshakes, way over priced for the crab cake and the fish and chips for what you would expect. Quality excellent, but not one of a kind to support the price of the food.
(3)
Jerry W.
The highlight was the owner coming out to greet us. We arrived without a reservation on a Saturday night. The hostess seemed aggravated that we just walked in. She sat is by the kitchen door in the bar area. We asked the server to move us and he did. The Asian lettuce wrap was tasty, but super modest. Not worth the $9 price. In general, we felt a little underwhelmed. The owner was nice, but I would not go again. Sorry.
(2)
janis k.
This restaurant has been in business for three years and we finally decided to try it . We were greeted by the friendly owner and immediately felt like we were off to a good start. Unfortunately it went downhill after that. It took 20 minutes to be seated even though there were three empty tables. Service was perfunctory - no one came a single time to ask if we needed anything. We finally had to track down our server to get the check. The food came out tepid but because it took an hour and we were starved we were afraid to send it back. The portions were microscopic and we felt hungry when we left. All in all we were very disappointed.
(2)
Wise C.
Pretty average. Visited with a co-worker to grab dinner, each ordered steak which was way over cooked. Salads were nothing special. Over priced for what you get.
(3)
Jim G.
Amazing food! My family stopped by at around 5:15 on a Thursday night. We ordered the truffle fries and they were the most amazing fries that we ever had! They tasted like sour cream and onion with a touch of garlic with shredded cheese on top. I will be dreaming about them until next time. We also ordered the Fisherman's trio. Everything was delicious....scallops, crabcake and mahi mahi on mashed potatoes drizzled with a lemon butter sauce. The only reason I am giving it a four star is because the dinner portion was very small for $24 and did not come with salad or bread. We also had the pig wings and if you like hot buffalo sauce and ginger together, then this is for you. It was a perfect explosion of both in your mouth. I loved it, family did not. The drinks were great as well. I ordered a chocolate martini which was only $6 for happy hour. Overall, the food was great, the atmosphere was extremely cozy and charming inside. It was dim but I loved that! Will return :))
(4)
Charlie S.
The Black Horse is a great place to come for Happy Hour and to hang out with the after-work "professional" crowd. The bars are classy and the food is great. The menu is always changing and they have some really interesting plates. As far as Newtown goes, this place has some of the best music. Sometimes they bring in jazz bands and other nights they bring in somebody with an acoustic guitar. Either way, it's a great atmosphere that's always full of locals and visitors alike. It has a one-of-kind ambience that shouldn't be missed if you are in the area.
(5)
Derek Z.
Great service. Cool atmosphere. Good food. I like tapped style. Get the fries.
(4)
Susan V.
I agree with Dave T. The happy hour here is one of the best I've found in the Newtown area and I could eat the truffle fries for breakfast, lunch or dinner. They have something like 20 beers on tap, which is enough for me. Issacs has more beer options but I've never had a good meal there. If you haven't been to The Black Horse Tavern in the last month or so, I suggest you try the "new" happy hour. It runs from Mon-Sat from 5-7 pm. I really like the revolutionary vibe, too.
(4)
Lolly G.
I moved to New Town about 4 months ago and this was the first bar I went to. I've been hooked since. The happy hour is an awesome deal with great drink specials. If you are a beer drinker you will find some really awesome beers on tap. The food is what makes Black Horse stand out from other bars in the area. It's delicious, fresh, and unique dishes. As a vegetarian, I find it difficult to find places to eat but not here. A favorite of mine is the tofu tacos (that you don't have to be a vegetarian to love) as well as the amazing flat breads. I've tried a few things off of their new menu and they've all been delicious. I am here at least once a week and have told many people to try to it out. Issacs is a competitor across the way but only because of their beer selection. The environment doesn't come close and their food is not good. The only complaint I would have is that one of the bartenders was rude to my group once, but we now avoid her.
(5)
Henry C S.
I've been here for many a happy hour and I do agree that it's not bad for drinks. However, the service is spotty unless you're sitting at the bar. They say they feature free apps during HH but it consisted of a small bowl of guac and salsa stuck on a barrel in a corner of the front bar with an ever empty plate of what looked like pita bread. I ordered the beet salad for $8 and it was a total waste. It was about 10 small bites of salad...worth half the price. If nothing else sit around and listen to the beautiful people talk about why they're beautiful.
(2)
emily c.
I ate here once. I will maybe eat here again. I went for food and not to hang out at a bar, so my review of this place is as an eatery (though I did wash my meal down with an Allagash White which they have on tap alongside some other choice quaffs). I ordered the beet salad and the fish tacos. I wish I had ordered 2 of each- not because they were so good, because they were so small. My server gave me prior warning by suggesting I order 3 dishes, but I was still surprised to see such small plates of food. Fortunately, I'm not fond of stuffing my face silly when I dine, though I can imagine some people may get the feeling they are being ripped off here. I kinda think, when I'm not eating in NYC, a $9 beet salad ought to fulfill a small meal requirement, as should $9 fish tacos. Where taste is concerned, I thought the beet salad was rather lovely- fresh greens and tender beets. My tacos left me wanting the fish more seasoned (and less fishy tasting) and more lime flavor in the lime cream, or served with a wedge of lime for squeezing, and at least a spoonful of seasoned rice. I thought the meal arrived a tad late, but then I feel like I'm being too picky. Besides, the servers were attentive to clearing empty plates, and filling empty glasses. The decor is historic with a modern facelift, pleasantly done, with adequately dimmed lighting. I would come here to to hang out for the bar, and maybe to try the food again.
(2)
Corinna G.
We were in Newtown unexpectedly, unfamiliar with the restaurants of the town. We happened upon The Black Horse Tavern and were unexpectedly surprised at the wonderful food and service. The owner went to each table to welcome everyone. Our waiter was excellent from beginning to end. We both got specials. One got the "Three Way Ribs" which were melt in your mouth ribs prepared three totally different ways. One of us got a seafood pot with a potato soup base. Appetizers were fabulous, perfect portion size, crazy unique area beers as well as the usual. The building is old and needs some improvements but it has that old tavern charm a new building will never have. Very friendly, helpful staff. We'll definitely go back.
(5)
Will C.
The fries are amazing and wild mushroom flatbread is awesome! Happy hour is the way to go. Perfect for a snack and drink.
(4)
Melissa M.
We were here for their hurricane party in August which was the first time since the menu change. I have to say I thoroughly enjoyed the food. There were a couple choices I think we didn't care for but nothing that deserves a negative review. The service was great and the drinks were spot on as well. We were surprised at the crowd that arrived around nine when the dj started. We couldn't help but get up and join them. It was a great evening! We look forward to going back very soon.
(4)
April G.
We went tonight for the Monday night locals menu. The eggplant parm and tilapia lemoncello were so "New York" good that we asked to give our compliments to the chef. Should have known..the chef is the former owner and chef of Il Sol Toscano - Joe came out to say hello. Glad to see they've handed the reins to someone so talented as him. And what a great priced menu. Will go every Monday night for such great fare!
(5)
Ashley S.
I came here recently on a Thursday evening for dinner and a drink. This place was pretty low key, calm and relaxing. They were playing some French music at the time which was a nice and unexpected change. The beer menu wasn't extremely impressive but they had a few good options. My brother and I both ordered the standard burger and fries. Seasoning on the burger was good and the cheese and prosciutto topping was a nice touch. I loved the taste of the focaccia they served it on - my only complaint is that they toasted it a little too much and it was kind of hard to bite into. Fries appeared to be fresh cut and were tasty - kind of small in portion size, but that's probably a good thing! Overall a nice little place to grab a quick bite and a beer.
(3)
Lauren L.
Will not be returning. The service was awful, we stood in the vestibule for about ten minutes before even being acknowledge by anyone despite being passes by at least four waiters/waitresses. We ordered drinks as soon as we say down and they never came. Finally they showed up AFTET our food was halfway gone. The food was just as disappointing as the service. Our burgers were served on stale rolls with soggy onion rings. When our bill came we saw that we were charged double for our drinks when they should have been free considering how late they arrived during our meal. Then when we notified the waiter we were questioned as if we were lying in order to get one over on them. The entire experience was completely horrible and I cannot believe that this place is still in business considering the area, I would think that people would have caught on by now.
(2)
Jenn B.
So after raving about your food to our family we all ordered over $100 in JUST burgers and fries for dinner one weekday evening --your burgers were dry shiveled versions of the buttery soft ones we previously enjoyed, the truffle fries were limp water logged barely covered in what you call aioli (not at all worth $11)..and that left 4 people still hungry and pissed at me for ever having vouched for you:(
(1)
Ashley R.
I recently went to this restaurant the food is excellent. The martinis are incredible a bit expensive but they have great happy hour!! The have a piano bar and it is really fun on the weekend nights they have DJs. They also have cute outside seating! This is a great place to go
(5)
Gerald S.
As the nearest watering hole to my Newtown office, Black Horse is a great place for an after work happy hour stop. I just walk over for an hour, have a beer, martini or margarita and a nibble of pretty good bar food specials, and make my way home. It is also perfect for pre/post meeting meetings to prep/rehash the issue of the moment. I usually find my buds upstairs in a cluster, but we have been known to find a corner downstairs to stand around in as we strategize or just blow off steam. The alcohol is what swings this dark horse, but the kitchen does turn out some quality dishes. The wings, dumplings, Mexi/Texi tapas, and even the burgers are done well, though their concepts may be different than you have experienced elsewhere. Too, you gotta like the overall atmosphere of the old place. The renovations have not detracted from the historical marker that this tavern has been over many many years. After one drink it is easy to imagine the Continental Army marching down State Street on its way to Washington Crossing. After two drinks you realize that there are Tory sympathizers in the bar. After three, the Sons of Liberty are ready to throw them out into the street. I have not actually sat down for a full dinner here. No particular reason other than the circumstances of the day. The prices are higher than my other favorite watering hole, The Clubhouse, but the differential can be explained by the ambiance and the targeted customers. Depending on my mood, BHT can be exactly right, particularly if planning the next skirmish in the War of Independence.
(4)
Jamie M.
I really wanted to like this place. I wanted it to be our new place when we moved into the area. I left my first dinner here thinking that it was both pretty terrible and terribly expensive. They are basically charging fine dining prices for highly mediocre food. That really pisses me off. I gave them two stars because I did like the truffle fries, but they were also insanely overpriced. We had a reservation and it was fairly early on a Friday night. They didn't have a decent table available as everything seemed to be reserved. Funny, I thought we had also reserved, but maybe I don't understand what reservation means. I think they were also out of a couple of the entrees that my table of four tried to order. The food was just meh, but with the outrageous prices for what it was, it made it taste even worse. I don't plan to return. Some places don't deserve a second chance. I honestly can't understand all the glowing reviews, but I have observed some grade inflation in the greater Newtown area.
(2)
Phil Y.
We went for a late weeknight dinner/snack. We were the only people at the bar for the first 30 minutes and only one other person came in while we were there, so I guess it's only crowded on weekends and during happy hour. Ordered the truffle fries which everyone recommended. Didn't taste a ton of truffle oil but the fries themselves were well prepared, crispy and flavorful. The cheese and aioli were a nice touch. However, $11 for a medium sized portion is way overpriced in my opinion. If I did it over again, I'd just try to order a side of plain fries. Sliders were decent sized and I'd say pretty standard for bar food. Nice selection of beers on tap. May go back during happy hour or trivia night.
(3)
Rachel B.
My husband and I went here on St. Paddy's day to hear a local band playing. There wasn't any space downstairs so we went upstairs to sit at a table. It took at least 15 minutes to get a beer menu and another 10 minutes for the waitress to take our food & drink order. After an additional hour ( 1 1/2 hours total since sitting) we still hadn't received any food. We only ordered simple bar food (chicken tenders, fries, and calamari). We end up leaving money for our beers on the table and walking out. A few other tables around us had cancelled their food order because of the insane wait time.
(1)
Mike M.
So we are in on a Wednesday night and trying this place for the first time. My first impression. Stay away. Service is abysmal. Waitstaff is rude, slow not very attentive. 2 guys just did not care. We will never go back. Food was fair. How can you screw up a Burger and salad. What a mess. 1 star
(1)
Jeff M.
A sad day. They have definately fallen down. Tonight only 6-7 beers on tap, about 10-12 out and covered with Crown Royal bags. "Because of the holidays." Not busy like it used to be. Then some of the beers are not on happy hour. Crazy. We won't be back. There are other craft bar bars locally.
(1)
Kendall B.
Happy Hour--a time, usually between the hours of 6-8, when drinks are offered at reduced prices, encouraging co-workers to mingle outside of the office setting. This is what Happy Hour used to be-back in the 1990s when people had jobs and could afford to keeping purchasing cocktails long after the drink specials had ended. But with the unemployment rate ticking ever higher, the definition of Happy Hour is changing: it is no longer only a place for the over-worked to release steam, it is also a valuable networking tool for the unemployed to try to find work. And bar/restaurant owners are recognizing this paradigm shift caused by the economic recession, offering better drink prices, extending discounts to include menu items, and even beginning their Happy Hours earlier in the day (before the 9-5er's are released from their cubicles). As an unemployed college graduate (or stay-at-home-daughter, as I prefer to say), I recognize the valuable opportunity that Happy Hours provide for networking (and budgeting) and I try to make it out to one each week. Of course, I also need to vent my frustrations of failed interviews and wasted cover letters! Right now my favorite Happy Hour hands-down is The Black Horse Tavern in Newtown. They do it all right: Starts at 5 pm, ends at 7 pm (Mon-Sat) $3 drafts, $4 wines, and $6 martinis 1/2 price menu items Trivia on Friday nights (for free drink prizes-I won one last week!) Free bar food available during Happy Hour (usually their delicious flatbreads!) In my opinion, it's the best deal in town and like all good things, it draws a consistent crowd. Aka: If you get there after 5 pm expect to sip your delicious martini while standing! They have an extensive speciality martini list, but I recommend the Grapefruit Bubbling Cosmo with Ruby Red Vodka, Cointreau, Lime Juice, Cranberry Juice, all topped off with a splash of Champagne. It has a perfect blend of citrus without tasting artificial. As far as bar food goes, YOU MUST GET THE TRUFFLE FRIES!!! They come topped with Parmesan Cheese and Belgian Aioli and they are to die for! I also really like the flatbreads at this place. The Margarita is very simple but delicious made with fresh mozzarella, fresh basil, oregano, olive oil, and spicy marinara sauce. It's tasty finger food that is easy to share, and I've got to admit that it is better than some of the pizza places I've tried in these neck of the woods. Last but not least, I also tried the Caesar Salad with crisp hearts of romaine and a garlicky brioche crostini, dressed to perfection with a Caesar drizzle. It was a great portion for like $4, which is definitely recession-approved pricing!
(5)
John G.
It was OK. That's all I can really say. The atmosphere is cozy and nice, but the food isn't the best, especially for the prices. Their truffle fries are good, but it seems like the portions have decreased over the past couple of years. Unless I get a Groupon, I won't be coming back to this place. Too many other nice restaurants around at better prices. Sorry, I wish I could give it a 'thumbs up'...but I just can't.
(2)
Walter C.
Dropped by there again and brought the kids. As usual a fantastic meal for all! Flat breads were terrific! My son loved his special made surf and turf. Thanks Robert! And my daughter loved her seafood trio. This place never let's me down.
(4)
Pablo G.
I've been to this place a few times and live in Newtown. It has never been my scene but I thought I should yelp a review. The bartender assumed I had a few drinks in me and decided to substitute a single for a ten when returning my change. I will not be returning.
(1)
Veronica K.
I'll preface this by saying I'm only reviewing the bar here; I've never ate any of their food. That being said I really do love this place! Sometimes I'll be in Newtown, usually catching dinner or just walking around, and this is a great little place to stumble into. The interior is dimly lit, but they often have candles on tables which gives it a slightly romantic feel. Their draft list is pretty decent, they have some macros, a few high profile crafts like Sam Adams, and also a bunch of rotating crafts. Every time I go I get to try some interesting brews. Believe me when I say this place is a great last stop for a night out. Just watch out for some of the regulars, a few of them have been a little too boisterous.
(4)
Paul L.
Haven't been back in a few months. My wife's wine was definitely old as it tasted like vinegar. The menu used to be much bigger and really delicious. Really disappointed in the menu and quality. Just didn't care to go back. I guess the bar scene would be ok if you want a small local area on a weekend night.
(1)
Flavia C.
Leaning towards a 4 1/2 star! I really enjoyed this place. Historic, beautiful intimate with plenty of options for your night. Downstairs is fun happy hour atmosphere, with DJ's and specials. Upstairs there is a hip piano bar and the music is great. I opted for the formal dining room where I could hear the music in the background but feel as if I had been transported back over 100 years when the place was built. The drinks are great and the food is fantastic. The duck dish anyway. The waiter who was fun, knowledgeable and patient when we closed the place down & didn't rush us at all --recommended the duck dish rather forcefully as in you can't leave here without trying it:) Boy am I glad he did. It melted in your mouth, with gnocchi and spinach. I'm writing this review in large part because I really wanted to go back but couldn't recall the name so now I have it saved:) Def. worth checking out for a nice date, happy hour downstairs,. a night out with the girls in the piano bar you name it!
(4)
Phyllis F.
Not good. Waited an hour for our appetizer and meal. The waitress was also the barmaid, as was the waiter. No bread served or offered. Bacon wrapped shrimp with jalapeño grits consisted of limp bacon and flavorless grits. Dinner was Scallops with crab risotto and peas ($27) The waitress asked what "side" I wanted, which confused me since the meal seemed complete without a side. So I wound up with 3 scallops (not seared) cut in half to give the appearance of more, cold mashed potatoes, no crab risotto, and peas. After the disappointing meal I didn't finish, I was not offered coffee or dessert and again had to flag the waiter down to pay out disappointing $75 bill (martinis $13 ea) after $10 comp. I would not recommend eating here I have had good meals here before and am not sure what changed, but tonight's meal was exceedingly disappointing. A complete waste of money.
(1)
Lauren T.
Horrible horrible service. We walked in and the place was empty. Sat down at the bar which was occupied only by employees. As soon as we sat down every employee disappeared. So we waited about five minutes for someone to finally come back and take our drink order. Once that happened we were once again ignored. I actually had the audacity to ask the bartender a question. The MANAGER of the bar looked at me as if I was the rudest person and then proceeded to ignore me all together. All in all, the place sucked. I've never been treated that way before. Period. Let alone treated that way at an establishment that I'm PAYING to be in. I'll never go back.
(1)
Jeff B.
Great ambience, two small bars. It is a little local gem in Newtown. Great place for a drink or two. If you like the tapas style then you will enjoy the food. We usually get filet mignon.
(3)
Mathew M.
Not sure why this place is called tapas. Me and my wife went to have some tapas but there was no tapas menu. Maybe something changed? We basically had bar food - wings and truffle fries. It was okay. Pretty loud place as they have live music both upstairs and downstairs. Might be a good place to go for drinks but not for tapas as I was expecting.
(3)
C M.
I am from the Lower Bucks County area, and though this would be a great place to bring my fiancee and my parents and other family together for dinner (we live out of town now) to show her Newtown, and what I remembered to be a really cool colonial tavern and restaurant. Unfortunately the place is under new management since the last time I had been there and the whole experience was just bizarre. I called the restaurant a few days in advance to make reservations, since we would be a party of 8, and asked if they would be having the live jazz quartet during the time we would be there for dinner, and I was told absolutely, yes. During our dinner, no jazz to be found, however one of the bus boys or waiters was playing their hard rock/heavy metal playlist while we were eating (this is supposed to be a nice place!). Then comes the food, I had the lobster bisque, which tasted like the jalapeño cheese whiz, that you dip your pretzel into. In fact, all of the soups and appetizers were nuclear hot with pepper or hot sauce, and no one could eat them. My sister also had chicken parm that was practically crusted in red pepper - it literally burnt the skin off her mouth. The table service was also terrible, I had to ask for bread, and instead of some fresh bread or hot rolls (which you might expect at a place where the average price per head is $60+), we got some stale sliced bread, that looked like it came from the leftover bin at the grocery store. The waiter was also very strange, often standing by the table and interjecting himself into our conversations, while forgetting to bring drinks and other things we asked him for. Totally bizarre. Finally "one of the owners" comes up to our table, still cold from the outside, and jacket on, comes up and shakes my hand (and all other 8 people at the table) while we're eating, explains he is the manager, and goes on for almost 10 minutes in an awkward one way conversation. I'm all about owners making connections with their guests, thats how you make a new comer a regular, but he didn't even tell us his name, or ask us how the food was. He was also dressed like he had just been working on a utility pole. I kind of wanted to wash my hands. Oh and here's the kicker - they didn't have desert. We asked if they usually do and they said yes, but this particular high traffic Saturday night they just didn't. I mean they could have picked up an ice cream cake at the grocery store when they got that old bread! Jeez. Finally, as we're about to leave the jazz group starts playing. The weird thing was no one turned off the hard rock music and the two were competing with each other as the employees of the restaurant walked around not seeming to notice two types of music were going full force at the same time. No hard feelings, just extremely strange.
(1)
Christa B.
We love the atmosphere; very intimate setting as well as cozy. Beer selection is nice; something for the craft beer people as well as the everyday beers. Haven't had the food here but the service from the bar is excellent. Great place for people to go.
(4)
Priya M.
Tapas who? Nothing on the menu screamed tapas..bar food mostly..truffle fries were good and mayo filled..wings seemed old/frozen...slim picking on drink menu..but wine was surprisingly good..noisy and not really a getting out experience but had good prompt service
(3)
Andrew W.
I was in Newton on a random Saturday night, a friend and I were going to try out a golf simulator nearby and we figured we could find a place on the State Street strip to grab a quick bite to eat. Never having been to Newton, I was pleasantly surprised by the community, its a really interesting area with some very, very old buildings and Victorian houses. Anyway, we saw the Black Horse Tavern when driving around and figured we'd pop in for food. Neither of us realized it was a restaurant, not a bar/tavern, so we were thrown off a bit when they asked if we had reservations. They fit us, but were kind of rude about it "We have tables available NOW, but you'll have to be out by 8:00." That theme continued with the small note card on our table that said soothing to the effect of how there are reservations after you, so be mindful of your time. Have they had issues with this? Are people not aware that you might have people with reservations after you in a public restaurant? It was bizarre. The food we had was good. Since we were trying to be quick we had burgers - I went with the Tavern Burger (very good cheese and sauteed onions) and my buddy had the regular burger. Both were seasoned and cooked well... and allowed us to depart without upsetting the people who had reservations next to us. Thank god. It was a nice place and most of the meals that came out of the kitchen seemed to look appetizing, but the vibe I got from the whole "eat and leave" mentality kind of spoiled it.
(3)
A R.
Have been here before and liked it... but not anymore. Poor service, sour wine, mediocre food - and we had to wait an hour to get our dinner. This restaurant is sinking.... fast! Too bad. They lost 2 more customers last night.
(1)
Amy H.
Went here with a friend a couple months ago, and I came to Yelp looking for the name of this place because I wanted to potentially go back. That's the first sign this place made a favorable mark in my mind. The Black Horse Tavern delivered solid food, and really nice "date" atmosphere (at least on a week night - can't speak to the noise on the weekend, haven't seen it). The truffle fries were phenomenal, and the drinks were good, strong, but balanced. It's a great little "unknown" spot for good conversation in an intimate setting. Happy to patronize them again.
(4)
Christina L.
Being new to the area, I am always on a mission to find great local spots, and this fits the bill. I read other Yelp review (which is how I often determine where to go) and I have to agree that the food is great, and the venue is awesome. The truffle fries are fantastic, but I was surprised they came in one of those cheap wooden salad bowls... how about a fries stand? Something to up the presentation? My penne a la vodka was great too, though a little expensive, in my opinion, for what you get. Being from NY, I know high prices, and it seems that the food here is a little too high priced for what you get. I do love the atmosphere and how there are separate rooms for dining, and bars... upstairs is an awesome piano bar lounge, and downstairs are two more bars. It almost feels like you're in a vintage stone home- it's great. Lastly, and this has nothing to do with food, is the upstairs dining room is DRAFTY and barren. I ate dinner with my coat on. I love the wooden slats in the ceiling but you can hardly see them contrast against the dark red walls. I do wonder also why there is no artwork or lighting somewhere to add more to the ambiance? There's a gorgeous stone fireplace but it is blocked by a 4-top table. I think a much better job could be done with the space upstairs (for dining). I definitely would recommend this place and I definitely will be back
(4)
Debby H.
What a delicious experience! Two of us used a Groupon & so glad we found this restaurant. It was a busy Saturday night & we waited a few minutes for our upstairs table to be ready. We had a terrific server...so pleasant & efficient! We shared a delicious seafood flatbread. My friend had the wild salmon & crab cake; I had the 10 oz rib eye that came with your choice of vegetables and sauces. I chose truffle butter as my sauce & roasted potatoes and spinach. The dish was brought with mashed potatoes, but it didn't matter since they were delicious, the steak perfection at medium rare & despite being 19 degrees outside, the food was served hot! We loved that the owner came around to shake our hand, bring us water refills and chat with us when we stopped him to compliment him on the experience. No doubt I'll be back, and my friend said the same!
(4)
Donna K.
Seated at 8:30. Cesar's salads not served til 9:15. Did not see waiter until then. Steak was served raw. Had to send back and it came back mid rare when order med well. Potatoes were disgusting left the worst after taste. Veggies were definitely frozen. Out of multiple dishes on the menu. Restaurant is filthy. Will not come back. Ever.
(1)
Samantha P.
I'm struggling with the star rating, but I think the Black Horse Tavern deserves three stars. My boyfriend and I went here for dinner on a Friday night. Here's what I liked about the place: Location & atmosphere: at 6:30 on a Friday, this place had a pretty good amount of people, which is always nice. They sat us at a very cute table against the stone brick wall, which felt a little secluded and I liked that. It's like we were tucked away. It looks like they have two bars which is pretty cool. Bar menu and happy hour: the drinks and the fries were excellent. I will go back just for that. And let me tell you, white creamy mayo stuff freaks me out, but I was able to suck up and deal because the truffle fries were that good. And my french martini was excellent. Where the Tavern went awry: In addition to the fries, we ordered mahi mahi tacos and I could smell them the second they came to the table. And it was not a good smell. I took a bite and it tasted fine, but the smell was overwhelmingly bad. I'm honestly surprised it got past the cook and the waiters. So, we just passed on that and waited for our entrees. My entree was very good - I ordered the duck with mushrooms and gnocchi. This gnocchi wasn't typical, it was fried and wasn't very potatoey but I'm not complaining - it was delicious. My boyfriends entree on the other hand was pretty bizarre. When he ordered the short ribs he was given the choice of 5 different "sauces", the last one being a mushroom sauce. But when he got his entree there was no sauce, just some meat and mushrooms on the side. It was dry! But here is the most bizarre part... these were not short ribs. I have cooked short ribs 50+ times in my life. This was more like slices of pot roast. Albeit, the meat was tender and well-seasoned, but it really could have used some kind of gravy. So take from my review what you will. The place has potential but maybe you just have to order the right thing. I would stick with the drinks, the bar food and stay away from the seafood...
(3)
Gnomer B.
Like many others who wrote a glowing review of Black Horse's happy hour, I too am a fan. I came in last Friday night for the first time and met two friends at the bar. This place is QUAINT AS HELL. If you like quaint taverns, with a historic feel, you will get that here. The decor is lovely; the back wall of the bar is stone. STONE, YOU HEAR ME? Being all colonial and shit. Love me some stone walls. Anyway, the happy hour prices are fantastic for Newtown. $3 pints? Yes, please, I will have all the beers. My friends ordered some truffle fries, which were also discounted for happy hour, and I tasted them and immediately got a raging food boner. The two bartender dudes on staff were attentive and friendly, and refilled our beers promptly despite how packed it was getting in there. The crowd was of the older sort, but very upbeat and friendly people. Like hanging out with your parents cool friends, if your parents have cool friends. Mine don't. As we were leaving the owner was shaking everyone's hands and thanking them for coming. I didn't realize he had tried to shake mine until after I had breezed on by, snubbing the poor guy. SORRY MANG. I'll do better next time, and will certainly frequent your establishment again.
(4)
Neil G.
My wife and I came here for dinner on a Friday night. It's located in a town called Newtown PA, which I am not very familiar with but seems very nice. Upon walking in, we realized we must have walked through the wrong entrance. We walked through the bar and found the hostess at the entrance we should have come in on. At first we were kind of worried that the only formal seating was in the bar area because 1) There weren't that many tables, and 2) The bar was very crowded, and kind of loud. Not a bad thing, and what you would expect from a bar on a Friday night, just not the atmosphere we were looking for on our date night out. After finding the hostess, we were pleasantly surprised that they have a whole other floor for formal dining. Very different atmosphere from downstairs, exactly what we were looking for. Nice, quiet, ambiance, etc... We were given the option to sit by the window which was nice, and shortly after we were greeted by our fantastic waitress Guyel (I know I mispelled that, sorry Guyel). She took our drink order and notified us that we still have 20 minutes for Happy Hour pricing. If you've read any of my reviews, you know I'm a big beer guy. $3 for anything on draft, and that included craft beers. This is the best deal I've seen in a long time. I ended up ordering 2 dogfish head 60 minute ipas. Everything was going great until we found out they removed the only vegetarian entree on the menu which my wife, being vegetarian, was planning on ordering. We obviously have to be very mindful of where we are eating because of her dietary constraint and always look up menus online before we chose a place to eat at. She ended up having to order a few vegetarian appetizers, the hummus plate and vege dumplings. The hummus was just ok, not much flavor. The dumplings on the other hand were probably the best vege dumplings I've ever eaten. I think she regrets not ordering two of them. My dinner on the other hand was fantastic. I ordered the Scottish Salmon and Crab Cake Entree and I was very happy with my decision. The Salmon sat on a bead of mashed potatoes, broccoli rabe and a crab cake with some type white sauce which really made the dish. Salmon was cooked to perfection, portion was just right. It was a $22 dish, but I say well worth the money. I can honestly say it was one of the best dinners I've eaten in a while. Overall, I think the service was great, food was amazing, I just hope they add one or more vegetarian entrees to the menu. That would definitely keep us coming back.
(4)
Joan M.
Took my husband parents there. We had a groupon which was a very good deal. Upon arriving we had eight o'clock reservation we were seated immediatly taken to our table where we we're greeted by the owner which was a very nice touch. The server was very nice food totally amazing. After dinner we went into the piano room for a after dinner drink which was really nice too. Overall excellent experience. We definitely will be back with or without a groupon.
(5)
Aasima A.
We have been to downtown Newtown a few times before but that was for the best ice cream! this time, we were hungry and wanted actual food. We checked Yelp and sauntered into the Black Horse Tavern. The inside is really charming, with nice exposed brick walls, and wood staircase, etc. There weren't to many people at the bar but we chose to sit at a table. Ordered a few things and then the afterwork/ regular crowd started filling up the place. As I looked around though I couldn't help but notice THERE IS NO DIVERSITY. All the patrons there looked the same: same polo/ collared short and khacki shorts or jean and some type of sandal or sneaker. No one of color, no one from any other socio-economic group. It didn't make me uncomfortable, because I for one love trying new things and because the servers and bartender were great and didn't make me feel any type of way, but was weird in a Twilight Zone kind of way. The food was decent, just small portions. We had to get extra appetizers at the end of our dinner because most of us were still hungry. Over all was cool to finally get inside and see what the hype was, but i don't know if we'll go back unless out of nessesity. Decent place, but the small portions and high prices are not warranted. Maybe the crows is differrent later in the evening or on the weekend.
(2)
Sarah S.
Formerly "The Grotto" ..... Great happy hour place and good for live music on the weekends too. I'm a regular here and love the atmosphere. However, I have not had a meal here in a while so I can't speak for the eats
(4)
Gerrianne M.
I've been here twice so far, and both times with my "fellow mom friends", for a kid-free, husband-free night out. The first time, we stumbled into Black Horse Tavern because it was nearby and it had a live band. Someone had a 50th birthday party there that night, so it was very crowded. I wasn't sure if it was unique to that night, but the place definitely had an older crowd. The second time, we chose Black Horse Tavern because we had a Groupon and it turned out to be a great deal. The food, however, was not so great. Most of the items on the menu sounded delicious! You could order anything from pasta, to hamburgers, to eggrolls, to fajitas. I should have known this was strange to have such a wide variety of menu items in a bar/ tavern/ restaurant. I was torn between the vodka riggatoni and a hamburger. I was in the mood for a good burger, and didn't think I could go wrong in this place. Well, I was wrong. It wasn't great, and was regretting my choice, but my friend had ordered the vodka rigs and they had absolutely NO TASTE! I was so disappointed. The atmosphere is pretty nice though, the bar and open space for the band/ dancing is on the main level. Upstairs is the private piano bar area and the restaurant. It was perfect for the night we had planned, because we could sit upstairs for as long as we wanted to chat, without being disrupted by the band,etc. The only down side to that was, we were seated right next to the bathroom. There is only 1 restroom for each gender, and for some reason, both had lines all night long, or at least throughout our dinner. It was distracting because the line kept creeping into our table. After that, we ventured downstairs to check out the band, which was pretty good and played a variety of music. The crowd was diverse in ages, from folks in their 50's to 40's, and then us in our 30's, however it seemed that we were the youngest ones there. So overall, this play was just Ehhhh... in my opinion.
Terrific happy hour! Great beer and wine specials and friendly bartenders...the owner is there a lot and makes sure everyone is happy...a really good thing! The Dark Horse burger...the bride and I...who've had them all over the country...rate the house burger as number one...a bit expensive but worth every penny!
(5)
Gerrianne M.
I've been here twice so far, and both times with my "fellow mom friends", for a kid-free, husband-free night out. The first time, we stumbled into Black Horse Tavern because it was nearby and it had a live band. Someone had a 50th birthday party there that night, so it was very crowded. I wasn't sure if it was unique to that night, but the place definitely had an older crowd. The second time, we chose Black Horse Tavern because we had a Groupon and it turned out to be a great deal. The food, however, was not so great. Most of the items on the menu sounded delicious! You could order anything from pasta, to hamburgers, to eggrolls, to fajitas. I should have known this was strange to have such a wide variety of menu items in a bar/ tavern/ restaurant. I was torn between the vodka riggatoni and a hamburger. I was in the mood for a good burger, and didn't think I could go wrong in this place. Well, I was wrong. It wasn't great, and was regretting my choice, but my friend had ordered the vodka rigs and they had absolutely NO TASTE! I was so disappointed. The atmosphere is pretty nice though, the bar and open space for the band/ dancing is on the main level. Upstairs is the private piano bar area and the restaurant. It was perfect for the night we had planned, because we could sit upstairs for as long as we wanted to chat, without being disrupted by the band,etc. The only down side to that was, we were seated right next to the bathroom. There is only 1 restroom for each gender, and for some reason, both had lines all night long, or at least throughout our dinner. It was distracting because the line kept creeping into our table. After that, we ventured downstairs to check out the band, which was pretty good and played a variety of music. The crowd was diverse in ages, from folks in their 50's to 40's, and then us in our 30's, however it seemed that we were the youngest ones there. So overall, this play was just Ehhhh... in my opinion.
We went tonight for the Monday night locals menu. The eggplant parm and tilapia lemoncello were so "New York" good that we asked to give our compliments to the chef. Should have known..the chef is the former owner and chef of Il Sol Toscano - Joe came out to say hello. Glad to see they've handed the reins to someone so talented as him. And what a great priced menu. Will go every Monday night for such great fare!
(5)
Lauren T.
Horrible horrible service. We walked in and the place was empty. Sat down at the bar which was occupied only by employees. As soon as we sat down every employee disappeared. So we waited about five minutes for someone to finally come back and take our drink order. Once that happened we were once again ignored. I actually had the audacity to ask the bartender a question. The MANAGER of the bar looked at me as if I was the rudest person and then proceeded to ignore me all together. All in all, the place sucked. I've never been treated that way before. Period. Let alone treated that way at an establishment that I'm PAYING to be in. I'll never go back.
(1)
Ashley S.
I came here recently on a Thursday evening for dinner and a drink. This place was pretty low key, calm and relaxing. They were playing some French music at the time which was a nice and unexpected change. The beer menu wasn't extremely impressive but they had a few good options. My brother and I both ordered the standard burger and fries. Seasoning on the burger was good and the cheese and prosciutto topping was a nice touch. I loved the taste of the focaccia they served it on - my only complaint is that they toasted it a little too much and it was kind of hard to bite into. Fries appeared to be fresh cut and were tasty - kind of small in portion size, but that's probably a good thing! Overall a nice little place to grab a quick bite and a beer.
(3)
Lauren L.
Will not be returning. The service was awful, we stood in the vestibule for about ten minutes before even being acknowledge by anyone despite being passes by at least four waiters/waitresses. We ordered drinks as soon as we say down and they never came. Finally they showed up AFTET our food was halfway gone. The food was just as disappointing as the service. Our burgers were served on stale rolls with soggy onion rings. When our bill came we saw that we were charged double for our drinks when they should have been free considering how late they arrived during our meal. Then when we notified the waiter we were questioned as if we were lying in order to get one over on them. The entire experience was completely horrible and I cannot believe that this place is still in business considering the area, I would think that people would have caught on by now.
(2)
Jenn B.
So after raving about your food to our family we all ordered over $100 in JUST burgers and fries for dinner one weekday evening --your burgers were dry shiveled versions of the buttery soft ones we previously enjoyed, the truffle fries were limp water logged barely covered in what you call aioli (not at all worth $11)..and that left 4 people still hungry and pissed at me for ever having vouched for you:(
(1)
Ashley R.
I recently went to this restaurant the food is excellent. The martinis are incredible a bit expensive but they have great happy hour!! The have a piano bar and it is really fun on the weekend nights they have DJs. They also have cute outside seating! This is a great place to go
(5)
Gerald S.
As the nearest watering hole to my Newtown office, Black Horse is a great place for an after work happy hour stop. I just walk over for an hour, have a beer, martini or margarita and a nibble of pretty good bar food specials, and make my way home. It is also perfect for pre/post meeting meetings to prep/rehash the issue of the moment. I usually find my buds upstairs in a cluster, but we have been known to find a corner downstairs to stand around in as we strategize or just blow off steam. The alcohol is what swings this dark horse, but the kitchen does turn out some quality dishes. The wings, dumplings, Mexi/Texi tapas, and even the burgers are done well, though their concepts may be different than you have experienced elsewhere. Too, you gotta like the overall atmosphere of the old place. The renovations have not detracted from the historical marker that this tavern has been over many many years. After one drink it is easy to imagine the Continental Army marching down State Street on its way to Washington Crossing. After two drinks you realize that there are Tory sympathizers in the bar. After three, the Sons of Liberty are ready to throw them out into the street. I have not actually sat down for a full dinner here. No particular reason other than the circumstances of the day. The prices are higher than my other favorite watering hole, The Clubhouse, but the differential can be explained by the ambiance and the targeted customers. Depending on my mood, BHT can be exactly right, particularly if planning the next skirmish in the War of Independence.
(4)
Jamie M.
I really wanted to like this place. I wanted it to be our new place when we moved into the area. I left my first dinner here thinking that it was both pretty terrible and terribly expensive. They are basically charging fine dining prices for highly mediocre food. That really pisses me off. I gave them two stars because I did like the truffle fries, but they were also insanely overpriced. We had a reservation and it was fairly early on a Friday night. They didn't have a decent table available as everything seemed to be reserved. Funny, I thought we had also reserved, but maybe I don't understand what reservation means. I think they were also out of a couple of the entrees that my table of four tried to order. The food was just meh, but with the outrageous prices for what it was, it made it taste even worse. I don't plan to return. Some places don't deserve a second chance. I honestly can't understand all the glowing reviews, but I have observed some grade inflation in the greater Newtown area.
(2)
Rachel B.
My husband and I went here on St. Paddy's day to hear a local band playing. There wasn't any space downstairs so we went upstairs to sit at a table. It took at least 15 minutes to get a beer menu and another 10 minutes for the waitress to take our food & drink order. After an additional hour ( 1 1/2 hours total since sitting) we still hadn't received any food. We only ordered simple bar food (chicken tenders, fries, and calamari). We end up leaving money for our beers on the table and walking out. A few other tables around us had cancelled their food order because of the insane wait time.
(1)
Mike M.
So we are in on a Wednesday night and trying this place for the first time. My first impression. Stay away. Service is abysmal. Waitstaff is rude, slow not very attentive. 2 guys just did not care. We will never go back. Food was fair. How can you screw up a Burger and salad. What a mess. 1 star
(1)
Phil Y.
We went for a late weeknight dinner/snack. We were the only people at the bar for the first 30 minutes and only one other person came in while we were there, so I guess it's only crowded on weekends and during happy hour. Ordered the truffle fries which everyone recommended. Didn't taste a ton of truffle oil but the fries themselves were well prepared, crispy and flavorful. The cheese and aioli were a nice touch. However, $11 for a medium sized portion is way overpriced in my opinion. If I did it over again, I'd just try to order a side of plain fries. Sliders were decent sized and I'd say pretty standard for bar food. Nice selection of beers on tap. May go back during happy hour or trivia night.
(3)
Jeff M.
A sad day. They have definately fallen down. Tonight only 6-7 beers on tap, about 10-12 out and covered with Crown Royal bags. "Because of the holidays." Not busy like it used to be. Then some of the beers are not on happy hour. Crazy. We won't be back. There are other craft bar bars locally.
(1)
Flavia C.
Leaning towards a 4 1/2 star! I really enjoyed this place. Historic, beautiful intimate with plenty of options for your night. Downstairs is fun happy hour atmosphere, with DJ's and specials. Upstairs there is a hip piano bar and the music is great. I opted for the formal dining room where I could hear the music in the background but feel as if I had been transported back over 100 years when the place was built. The drinks are great and the food is fantastic. The duck dish anyway. The waiter who was fun, knowledgeable and patient when we closed the place down & didn't rush us at all --recommended the duck dish rather forcefully as in you can't leave here without trying it:) Boy am I glad he did. It melted in your mouth, with gnocchi and spinach. I'm writing this review in large part because I really wanted to go back but couldn't recall the name so now I have it saved:) Def. worth checking out for a nice date, happy hour downstairs,. a night out with the girls in the piano bar you name it!
(4)
Phyllis F.
Not good. Waited an hour for our appetizer and meal. The waitress was also the barmaid, as was the waiter. No bread served or offered. Bacon wrapped shrimp with jalapeño grits consisted of limp bacon and flavorless grits. Dinner was Scallops with crab risotto and peas ($27) The waitress asked what "side" I wanted, which confused me since the meal seemed complete without a side. So I wound up with 3 scallops (not seared) cut in half to give the appearance of more, cold mashed potatoes, no crab risotto, and peas. After the disappointing meal I didn't finish, I was not offered coffee or dessert and again had to flag the waiter down to pay out disappointing $75 bill (martinis $13 ea) after $10 comp. I would not recommend eating here I have had good meals here before and am not sure what changed, but tonight's meal was exceedingly disappointing. A complete waste of money.
(1)
Jeff B.
Great ambience, two small bars. It is a little local gem in Newtown. Great place for a drink or two. If you like the tapas style then you will enjoy the food. We usually get filet mignon.
(3)
C M.
I am from the Lower Bucks County area, and though this would be a great place to bring my fiancee and my parents and other family together for dinner (we live out of town now) to show her Newtown, and what I remembered to be a really cool colonial tavern and restaurant. Unfortunately the place is under new management since the last time I had been there and the whole experience was just bizarre. I called the restaurant a few days in advance to make reservations, since we would be a party of 8, and asked if they would be having the live jazz quartet during the time we would be there for dinner, and I was told absolutely, yes. During our dinner, no jazz to be found, however one of the bus boys or waiters was playing their hard rock/heavy metal playlist while we were eating (this is supposed to be a nice place!). Then comes the food, I had the lobster bisque, which tasted like the jalapeño cheese whiz, that you dip your pretzel into. In fact, all of the soups and appetizers were nuclear hot with pepper or hot sauce, and no one could eat them. My sister also had chicken parm that was practically crusted in red pepper - it literally burnt the skin off her mouth. The table service was also terrible, I had to ask for bread, and instead of some fresh bread or hot rolls (which you might expect at a place where the average price per head is $60+), we got some stale sliced bread, that looked like it came from the leftover bin at the grocery store. The waiter was also very strange, often standing by the table and interjecting himself into our conversations, while forgetting to bring drinks and other things we asked him for. Totally bizarre. Finally "one of the owners" comes up to our table, still cold from the outside, and jacket on, comes up and shakes my hand (and all other 8 people at the table) while we're eating, explains he is the manager, and goes on for almost 10 minutes in an awkward one way conversation. I'm all about owners making connections with their guests, thats how you make a new comer a regular, but he didn't even tell us his name, or ask us how the food was. He was also dressed like he had just been working on a utility pole. I kind of wanted to wash my hands. Oh and here's the kicker - they didn't have desert. We asked if they usually do and they said yes, but this particular high traffic Saturday night they just didn't. I mean they could have picked up an ice cream cake at the grocery store when they got that old bread! Jeez. Finally, as we're about to leave the jazz group starts playing. The weird thing was no one turned off the hard rock music and the two were competing with each other as the employees of the restaurant walked around not seeming to notice two types of music were going full force at the same time. No hard feelings, just extremely strange.
(1)
Christa B.
We love the atmosphere; very intimate setting as well as cozy. Beer selection is nice; something for the craft beer people as well as the everyday beers. Haven't had the food here but the service from the bar is excellent. Great place for people to go.
(4)
Priya M.
Tapas who? Nothing on the menu screamed tapas..bar food mostly..truffle fries were good and mayo filled..wings seemed old/frozen...slim picking on drink menu..but wine was surprisingly good..noisy and not really a getting out experience but had good prompt service
(3)
Veronica K.
I'll preface this by saying I'm only reviewing the bar here; I've never ate any of their food. That being said I really do love this place! Sometimes I'll be in Newtown, usually catching dinner or just walking around, and this is a great little place to stumble into. The interior is dimly lit, but they often have candles on tables which gives it a slightly romantic feel. Their draft list is pretty decent, they have some macros, a few high profile crafts like Sam Adams, and also a bunch of rotating crafts. Every time I go I get to try some interesting brews. Believe me when I say this place is a great last stop for a night out. Just watch out for some of the regulars, a few of them have been a little too boisterous.
(4)
Paul L.
Haven't been back in a few months. My wife's wine was definitely old as it tasted like vinegar. The menu used to be much bigger and really delicious. Really disappointed in the menu and quality. Just didn't care to go back. I guess the bar scene would be ok if you want a small local area on a weekend night.
(1)
Andrew W.
I was in Newton on a random Saturday night, a friend and I were going to try out a golf simulator nearby and we figured we could find a place on the State Street strip to grab a quick bite to eat. Never having been to Newton, I was pleasantly surprised by the community, its a really interesting area with some very, very old buildings and Victorian houses. Anyway, we saw the Black Horse Tavern when driving around and figured we'd pop in for food. Neither of us realized it was a restaurant, not a bar/tavern, so we were thrown off a bit when they asked if we had reservations. They fit us, but were kind of rude about it "We have tables available NOW, but you'll have to be out by 8:00." That theme continued with the small note card on our table that said soothing to the effect of how there are reservations after you, so be mindful of your time. Have they had issues with this? Are people not aware that you might have people with reservations after you in a public restaurant? It was bizarre. The food we had was good. Since we were trying to be quick we had burgers - I went with the Tavern Burger (very good cheese and sauteed onions) and my buddy had the regular burger. Both were seasoned and cooked well... and allowed us to depart without upsetting the people who had reservations next to us. Thank god. It was a nice place and most of the meals that came out of the kitchen seemed to look appetizing, but the vibe I got from the whole "eat and leave" mentality kind of spoiled it.
(3)
A R.
Have been here before and liked it... but not anymore. Poor service, sour wine, mediocre food - and we had to wait an hour to get our dinner. This restaurant is sinking.... fast! Too bad. They lost 2 more customers last night.
(1)
Amy H.
Went here with a friend a couple months ago, and I came to Yelp looking for the name of this place because I wanted to potentially go back. That's the first sign this place made a favorable mark in my mind. The Black Horse Tavern delivered solid food, and really nice "date" atmosphere (at least on a week night - can't speak to the noise on the weekend, haven't seen it). The truffle fries were phenomenal, and the drinks were good, strong, but balanced. It's a great little "unknown" spot for good conversation in an intimate setting. Happy to patronize them again.
(4)
Mathew M.
Not sure why this place is called tapas. Me and my wife went to have some tapas but there was no tapas menu. Maybe something changed? We basically had bar food - wings and truffle fries. It was okay. Pretty loud place as they have live music both upstairs and downstairs. Might be a good place to go for drinks but not for tapas as I was expecting.
(3)
Pablo G.
I've been to this place a few times and live in Newtown. It has never been my scene but I thought I should yelp a review. The bartender assumed I had a few drinks in me and decided to substitute a single for a ten when returning my change. I will not be returning.
(1)
Christina L.
Being new to the area, I am always on a mission to find great local spots, and this fits the bill. I read other Yelp review (which is how I often determine where to go) and I have to agree that the food is great, and the venue is awesome. The truffle fries are fantastic, but I was surprised they came in one of those cheap wooden salad bowls... how about a fries stand? Something to up the presentation? My penne a la vodka was great too, though a little expensive, in my opinion, for what you get. Being from NY, I know high prices, and it seems that the food here is a little too high priced for what you get. I do love the atmosphere and how there are separate rooms for dining, and bars... upstairs is an awesome piano bar lounge, and downstairs are two more bars. It almost feels like you're in a vintage stone home- it's great. Lastly, and this has nothing to do with food, is the upstairs dining room is DRAFTY and barren. I ate dinner with my coat on. I love the wooden slats in the ceiling but you can hardly see them contrast against the dark red walls. I do wonder also why there is no artwork or lighting somewhere to add more to the ambiance? There's a gorgeous stone fireplace but it is blocked by a 4-top table. I think a much better job could be done with the space upstairs (for dining). I definitely would recommend this place and I definitely will be back
(4)
Walter C.
Dropped by there again and brought the kids. As usual a fantastic meal for all! Flat breads were terrific! My son loved his special made surf and turf. Thanks Robert! And my daughter loved her seafood trio. This place never let's me down.
(4)
Debby H.
What a delicious experience! Two of us used a Groupon & so glad we found this restaurant. It was a busy Saturday night & we waited a few minutes for our upstairs table to be ready. We had a terrific server...so pleasant & efficient! We shared a delicious seafood flatbread. My friend had the wild salmon & crab cake; I had the 10 oz rib eye that came with your choice of vegetables and sauces. I chose truffle butter as my sauce & roasted potatoes and spinach. The dish was brought with mashed potatoes, but it didn't matter since they were delicious, the steak perfection at medium rare & despite being 19 degrees outside, the food was served hot! We loved that the owner came around to shake our hand, bring us water refills and chat with us when we stopped him to compliment him on the experience. No doubt I'll be back, and my friend said the same!
(4)
Kendall B.
Happy Hour--a time, usually between the hours of 6-8, when drinks are offered at reduced prices, encouraging co-workers to mingle outside of the office setting. This is what Happy Hour used to be-back in the 1990s when people had jobs and could afford to keeping purchasing cocktails long after the drink specials had ended. But with the unemployment rate ticking ever higher, the definition of Happy Hour is changing: it is no longer only a place for the over-worked to release steam, it is also a valuable networking tool for the unemployed to try to find work. And bar/restaurant owners are recognizing this paradigm shift caused by the economic recession, offering better drink prices, extending discounts to include menu items, and even beginning their Happy Hours earlier in the day (before the 9-5er's are released from their cubicles). As an unemployed college graduate (or stay-at-home-daughter, as I prefer to say), I recognize the valuable opportunity that Happy Hours provide for networking (and budgeting) and I try to make it out to one each week. Of course, I also need to vent my frustrations of failed interviews and wasted cover letters! Right now my favorite Happy Hour hands-down is The Black Horse Tavern in Newtown. They do it all right: Starts at 5 pm, ends at 7 pm (Mon-Sat) $3 drafts, $4 wines, and $6 martinis 1/2 price menu items Trivia on Friday nights (for free drink prizes-I won one last week!) Free bar food available during Happy Hour (usually their delicious flatbreads!) In my opinion, it's the best deal in town and like all good things, it draws a consistent crowd. Aka: If you get there after 5 pm expect to sip your delicious martini while standing! They have an extensive speciality martini list, but I recommend the Grapefruit Bubbling Cosmo with Ruby Red Vodka, Cointreau, Lime Juice, Cranberry Juice, all topped off with a splash of Champagne. It has a perfect blend of citrus without tasting artificial. As far as bar food goes, YOU MUST GET THE TRUFFLE FRIES!!! They come topped with Parmesan Cheese and Belgian Aioli and they are to die for! I also really like the flatbreads at this place. The Margarita is very simple but delicious made with fresh mozzarella, fresh basil, oregano, olive oil, and spicy marinara sauce. It's tasty finger food that is easy to share, and I've got to admit that it is better than some of the pizza places I've tried in these neck of the woods. Last but not least, I also tried the Caesar Salad with crisp hearts of romaine and a garlicky brioche crostini, dressed to perfection with a Caesar drizzle. It was a great portion for like $4, which is definitely recession-approved pricing!
(5)
John G.
It was OK. That's all I can really say. The atmosphere is cozy and nice, but the food isn't the best, especially for the prices. Their truffle fries are good, but it seems like the portions have decreased over the past couple of years. Unless I get a Groupon, I won't be coming back to this place. Too many other nice restaurants around at better prices. Sorry, I wish I could give it a 'thumbs up'...but I just can't.
(2)
Samantha P.
I'm struggling with the star rating, but I think the Black Horse Tavern deserves three stars. My boyfriend and I went here for dinner on a Friday night. Here's what I liked about the place: Location & atmosphere: at 6:30 on a Friday, this place had a pretty good amount of people, which is always nice. They sat us at a very cute table against the stone brick wall, which felt a little secluded and I liked that. It's like we were tucked away. It looks like they have two bars which is pretty cool. Bar menu and happy hour: the drinks and the fries were excellent. I will go back just for that. And let me tell you, white creamy mayo stuff freaks me out, but I was able to suck up and deal because the truffle fries were that good. And my french martini was excellent. Where the Tavern went awry: In addition to the fries, we ordered mahi mahi tacos and I could smell them the second they came to the table. And it was not a good smell. I took a bite and it tasted fine, but the smell was overwhelmingly bad. I'm honestly surprised it got past the cook and the waiters. So, we just passed on that and waited for our entrees. My entree was very good - I ordered the duck with mushrooms and gnocchi. This gnocchi wasn't typical, it was fried and wasn't very potatoey but I'm not complaining - it was delicious. My boyfriends entree on the other hand was pretty bizarre. When he ordered the short ribs he was given the choice of 5 different "sauces", the last one being a mushroom sauce. But when he got his entree there was no sauce, just some meat and mushrooms on the side. It was dry! But here is the most bizarre part... these were not short ribs. I have cooked short ribs 50+ times in my life. This was more like slices of pot roast. Albeit, the meat was tender and well-seasoned, but it really could have used some kind of gravy. So take from my review what you will. The place has potential but maybe you just have to order the right thing. I would stick with the drinks, the bar food and stay away from the seafood...
(3)
Joan M.
Took my husband parents there. We had a groupon which was a very good deal. Upon arriving we had eight o'clock reservation we were seated immediatly taken to our table where we we're greeted by the owner which was a very nice touch. The server was very nice food totally amazing. After dinner we went into the piano room for a after dinner drink which was really nice too. Overall excellent experience. We definitely will be back with or without a groupon.
(5)
Gnomer B.
Like many others who wrote a glowing review of Black Horse's happy hour, I too am a fan. I came in last Friday night for the first time and met two friends at the bar. This place is QUAINT AS HELL. If you like quaint taverns, with a historic feel, you will get that here. The decor is lovely; the back wall of the bar is stone. STONE, YOU HEAR ME? Being all colonial and shit. Love me some stone walls. Anyway, the happy hour prices are fantastic for Newtown. $3 pints? Yes, please, I will have all the beers. My friends ordered some truffle fries, which were also discounted for happy hour, and I tasted them and immediately got a raging food boner. The two bartender dudes on staff were attentive and friendly, and refilled our beers promptly despite how packed it was getting in there. The crowd was of the older sort, but very upbeat and friendly people. Like hanging out with your parents cool friends, if your parents have cool friends. Mine don't. As we were leaving the owner was shaking everyone's hands and thanking them for coming. I didn't realize he had tried to shake mine until after I had breezed on by, snubbing the poor guy. SORRY MANG. I'll do better next time, and will certainly frequent your establishment again.
(4)
Neil G.
My wife and I came here for dinner on a Friday night. It's located in a town called Newtown PA, which I am not very familiar with but seems very nice. Upon walking in, we realized we must have walked through the wrong entrance. We walked through the bar and found the hostess at the entrance we should have come in on. At first we were kind of worried that the only formal seating was in the bar area because 1) There weren't that many tables, and 2) The bar was very crowded, and kind of loud. Not a bad thing, and what you would expect from a bar on a Friday night, just not the atmosphere we were looking for on our date night out. After finding the hostess, we were pleasantly surprised that they have a whole other floor for formal dining. Very different atmosphere from downstairs, exactly what we were looking for. Nice, quiet, ambiance, etc... We were given the option to sit by the window which was nice, and shortly after we were greeted by our fantastic waitress Guyel (I know I mispelled that, sorry Guyel). She took our drink order and notified us that we still have 20 minutes for Happy Hour pricing. If you've read any of my reviews, you know I'm a big beer guy. $3 for anything on draft, and that included craft beers. This is the best deal I've seen in a long time. I ended up ordering 2 dogfish head 60 minute ipas. Everything was going great until we found out they removed the only vegetarian entree on the menu which my wife, being vegetarian, was planning on ordering. We obviously have to be very mindful of where we are eating because of her dietary constraint and always look up menus online before we chose a place to eat at. She ended up having to order a few vegetarian appetizers, the hummus plate and vege dumplings. The hummus was just ok, not much flavor. The dumplings on the other hand were probably the best vege dumplings I've ever eaten. I think she regrets not ordering two of them. My dinner on the other hand was fantastic. I ordered the Scottish Salmon and Crab Cake Entree and I was very happy with my decision. The Salmon sat on a bead of mashed potatoes, broccoli rabe and a crab cake with some type white sauce which really made the dish. Salmon was cooked to perfection, portion was just right. It was a $22 dish, but I say well worth the money. I can honestly say it was one of the best dinners I've eaten in a while. Overall, I think the service was great, food was amazing, I just hope they add one or more vegetarian entrees to the menu. That would definitely keep us coming back.
(4)
Donna K.
Seated at 8:30. Cesar's salads not served til 9:15. Did not see waiter until then. Steak was served raw. Had to send back and it came back mid rare when order med well. Potatoes were disgusting left the worst after taste. Veggies were definitely frozen. Out of multiple dishes on the menu. Restaurant is filthy. Will not come back. Ever.
(1)
Aasima A.
We have been to downtown Newtown a few times before but that was for the best ice cream! this time, we were hungry and wanted actual food. We checked Yelp and sauntered into the Black Horse Tavern. The inside is really charming, with nice exposed brick walls, and wood staircase, etc. There weren't to many people at the bar but we chose to sit at a table. Ordered a few things and then the afterwork/ regular crowd started filling up the place. As I looked around though I couldn't help but notice THERE IS NO DIVERSITY. All the patrons there looked the same: same polo/ collared short and khacki shorts or jean and some type of sandal or sneaker. No one of color, no one from any other socio-economic group. It didn't make me uncomfortable, because I for one love trying new things and because the servers and bartender were great and didn't make me feel any type of way, but was weird in a Twilight Zone kind of way. The food was decent, just small portions. We had to get extra appetizers at the end of our dinner because most of us were still hungry. Over all was cool to finally get inside and see what the hype was, but i don't know if we'll go back unless out of nessesity. Decent place, but the small portions and high prices are not warranted. Maybe the crows is differrent later in the evening or on the weekend.
(2)
Sarah S.
Formerly "The Grotto" ..... Great happy hour place and good for live music on the weekends too. I'm a regular here and love the atmosphere. However, I have not had a meal here in a while so I can't speak for the eats
(4)
Sean K.
Terrific happy hour! Great beer and wine specials and friendly bartenders...the owner is there a lot and makes sure everyone is happy...a really good thing! The Dark Horse burger...the bride and I...who've had them all over the country...rate the house burger as number one...a bit expensive but worth every penny!
(5)
Lolly G.
I moved to New Town about 4 months ago and this was the first bar I went to. I've been hooked since. The happy hour is an awesome deal with great drink specials. If you are a beer drinker you will find some really awesome beers on tap. The food is what makes Black Horse stand out from other bars in the area. It's delicious, fresh, and unique dishes. As a vegetarian, I find it difficult to find places to eat but not here. A favorite of mine is the tofu tacos (that you don't have to be a vegetarian to love) as well as the amazing flat breads. I've tried a few things off of their new menu and they've all been delicious. I am here at least once a week and have told many people to try to it out. Issacs is a competitor across the way but only because of their beer selection. The environment doesn't come close and their food is not good. The only complaint I would have is that one of the bartenders was rude to my group once, but we now avoid her.
(5)
Jooj S.
This bar/restaurant has terrible service. Our server at the bar was downright rude; I believe her name was Christina. Bumping into us, dirty looks and stares, clearing drinks, and ignoring us....pretty much the opposite of what a server/bartender should be. Christina needs to find another job because she is scaring away the customers.
(1)
Robyn V.
I had a great experience here. I saw the deal they offered on groupon so i figured i'd give it a try. i went during happy hour so the drinks were very reasonably priced and the food was really very tasty. i had the truffle fries and the duck and my niece had the chicken pasta dish. then, when the server heard it was my neice's birthday he brought out a humongous slice of the chocolate peanut butter cake for free, even though we were already using a groupon. (the cake was incredibly delicious, especially with the chocolate martini.) definitely going back here and think the prices are fair for the portions and quality of the food you get.
(4)
Betina L.
This is a nice place for happy hour Good atmosphere very inexpensive beer The owner is super friendly and does Friday trivia with free drinks for participants
(4)
emily c.
I ate here once. I will maybe eat here again. I went for food and not to hang out at a bar, so my review of this place is as an eatery (though I did wash my meal down with an Allagash White which they have on tap alongside some other choice quaffs). I ordered the beet salad and the fish tacos. I wish I had ordered 2 of each- not because they were so good, because they were so small. My server gave me prior warning by suggesting I order 3 dishes, but I was still surprised to see such small plates of food. Fortunately, I'm not fond of stuffing my face silly when I dine, though I can imagine some people may get the feeling they are being ripped off here. I kinda think, when I'm not eating in NYC, a $9 beet salad ought to fulfill a small meal requirement, as should $9 fish tacos. Where taste is concerned, I thought the beet salad was rather lovely- fresh greens and tender beets. My tacos left me wanting the fish more seasoned (and less fishy tasting) and more lime flavor in the lime cream, or served with a wedge of lime for squeezing, and at least a spoonful of seasoned rice. I thought the meal arrived a tad late, but then I feel like I'm being too picky. Besides, the servers were attentive to clearing empty plates, and filling empty glasses. The decor is historic with a modern facelift, pleasantly done, with adequately dimmed lighting. I would come here to to hang out for the bar, and maybe to try the food again.
(2)
Corinna G.
We were in Newtown unexpectedly, unfamiliar with the restaurants of the town. We happened upon The Black Horse Tavern and were unexpectedly surprised at the wonderful food and service. The owner went to each table to welcome everyone. Our waiter was excellent from beginning to end. We both got specials. One got the "Three Way Ribs" which were melt in your mouth ribs prepared three totally different ways. One of us got a seafood pot with a potato soup base. Appetizers were fabulous, perfect portion size, crazy unique area beers as well as the usual. The building is old and needs some improvements but it has that old tavern charm a new building will never have. Very friendly, helpful staff. We'll definitely go back.
(5)
Will C.
The fries are amazing and wild mushroom flatbread is awesome! Happy hour is the way to go. Perfect for a snack and drink.
(4)
Melissa M.
We were here for their hurricane party in August which was the first time since the menu change. I have to say I thoroughly enjoyed the food. There were a couple choices I think we didn't care for but nothing that deserves a negative review. The service was great and the drinks were spot on as well. We were surprised at the crowd that arrived around nine when the dj started. We couldn't help but get up and join them. It was a great evening! We look forward to going back very soon.
(4)
Roberta R.
This is not the restaurant of old, don't let the quaint exterior fool you. The stodgy Newtown of the 1990s is thankfully long gone and this is the place to be for good bar food, conversation with the neighbors, jazz upstairs, sports on three tvs downstairs and the best DJ in town in back. For outdoor dining, get there early, the courtyard is small but well worth the wait on a nice Fall day. Don't forget to try the pork wings and fries, they will not disappoint. Regardless of age or musical preferences, this is the place to be every weekend, starting with the jazz on Wednesday right through to the piano bar and dance party on Saturday night. Don't miss it. For a quiet meal, go earlier. For a good light dinner, go any time before the grill closes, I think some time after 10 which is usually when the upstairs piano bar closes and the dance party downstairs really gets going.
(5)
Jelyn F.
The only times I've been here are for Happy Hour. Their half price menu is awesome... the Pig Wings alone make it all worth while.
(4)
Joe L.
Although the menu doesn't have many offerings, everything on it is delicious that I have tried so far. The flatbreads are good, but not as good as the pizzas used to be. Go with a burger and some truffle fries and you won't be disappointed. As far as staff go, the bartenders are all very nice. The owner is usually strolling around making sure everyone is taken care of. I have never been seated at a table, so I am not sure how the wait staff is.
(4)
Theresa H.
Had a Groupon for one appetizer or flatbread and two entrees, so had to try this place. I had been there once before just for drinks during happy hour, but we didn't eat any food. Happy hour drink prices are good, but both times I was there, they were out of a lot of the craft beers on tap. At dinner on a Tuesday early evening, the waitresses excuse for that was that they get their kegs on Tuesdays. Well, it was 6:30 p.m. When were you going to tap them? AND, the time I went for happy hour, it was a Saturday! So what was the reason then? So dinner on Tuesday didn't start off so well. Made a reservation on-line, but upon arrival there was no one at the hostess stand - it just said seat yourself. We wanted to eat upstairs, but no one was there. We came back downstairs and there was only one tiny table available (the others had "reserved" signs on them - was one of them supposed to be mine?! no way of knowing since no one was there to tell us!). Finally, someone saw us standing there and I asked if we could sit upstairs. He said "upstairs is closed." So, since it was just the two of us we chose the tiny table (it is a very small area and very noisy with the bar in there). It took quite a while for a waitress to come over and take our drink order. Then it took even longer to get the drinks because she was also bartending! Had I caught on to that sooner, I would have gone up to the bar to get them myself. Food was just so-so. The flatbread was decent, but pretty small. It definitely would not have been worth the $11 had I been paying full price. My husband liked the fisherman's trio entree (I didn't try it). I had the rib-eye and it was only so-so. It was cooked properly, but it wasn't very flavorful other than way too much salt on the meat and side dishes. Again, not horrible - but definitely neither would have been worth the full menu price. Alas, it then took our waitress another looooong time to bring our second drink and another looooooooong time to bring our check. The place was crowded - so why do they have a waitress doing double duty as bartender?? Anyway, we ended up taking our check up to the bar to pay so we didn't have to wait any longer. Bottom line - I would only ever go here again for drinks at happy hour, and possibly the trio of appetizers that everyone seemed to be getting, which looked decent though I don't know what the price was. Lousy service and mediocre food.
(2)
Monet E.
My beginning words to you and my friends are: Truffle Fries. Okay, so now that I have that out of the way, I must say that their Happy Hour is amazing, with $3.00 beers, $4.00 glasses of wine, and $5.00 martinis. Since, I am a major beer drinker, I go there for the $3.00 pints of beer and enjoy myself each time. The last time that I went, I met a really cool male bartender, it was during the week. Yesterday (Saturday) I went for their happy hour with two other friends who have never been, and was waited on by two rather lovely female bartenders. One was nicer than the other, but overall the customer service was pretty good. I love the hometown feel and the co-owner Michael came out and welcomed me and my friends to his restaurant. He and I had some great conversations about travel, beer, food, etc. That conversation added even more to the already homey/pleasant environment. So, yesterday I had my truffle fries (of course), the chicken tamale, and a piece of the mushroom flat bread, which were all very cheap (happy hour prices). I am in love with this place. If you are looking for an happy hour which is Mon-Fri with various delish beers on tap, good wine, and strong martinis, and truffle fries to die for, then The Black Horse Tavern is the place to be!!!
(5)
Mike T.
We went to this restaurant on Saturday the 12th. The WORST experience that I have EVER had. Here is why: -They were running 30 minutes late for our reservation. -Bar was out of MANY beers - Including staples such as Coors Light, Miller Lite and Guiness. -People at the bar told us "good luck trying to order a drink". -When we finally sat at our table, we were then given two different menus. -The Server came and was very dejected when he had to tell us that they were out of Filet, Samon, Flank Steak as well as some other entrees. -That waiter was pleased that we asked to speak with the manager because "they are on the front lines all night". -At that we decided to leave. -We asked for the manager - who was snarky, CURSED and gave us a false name. -DO NOT GO TO THIS RESTAURANT! We thought that they had potential but simply do not care!
(1)
Jerry W.
The highlight was the owner coming out to greet us. We arrived without a reservation on a Saturday night. The hostess seemed aggravated that we just walked in. She sat is by the kitchen door in the bar area. We asked the server to move us and he did. The Asian lettuce wrap was tasty, but super modest. Not worth the $9 price. In general, we felt a little underwhelmed. The owner was nice, but I would not go again. Sorry.
(2)
Jim G.
Amazing food! My family stopped by at around 5:15 on a Thursday night. We ordered the truffle fries and they were the most amazing fries that we ever had! They tasted like sour cream and onion with a touch of garlic with shredded cheese on top. I will be dreaming about them until next time. We also ordered the Fisherman's trio. Everything was delicious....scallops, crabcake and mahi mahi on mashed potatoes drizzled with a lemon butter sauce. The only reason I am giving it a four star is because the dinner portion was very small for $24 and did not come with salad or bread. We also had the pig wings and if you like hot buffalo sauce and ginger together, then this is for you. It was a perfect explosion of both in your mouth. I loved it, family did not. The drinks were great as well. I ordered a chocolate martini which was only $6 for happy hour. Overall, the food was great, the atmosphere was extremely cozy and charming inside. It was dim but I loved that! Will return :))
(4)
Charlie S.
The Black Horse is a great place to come for Happy Hour and to hang out with the after-work "professional" crowd. The bars are classy and the food is great. The menu is always changing and they have some really interesting plates. As far as Newtown goes, this place has some of the best music. Sometimes they bring in jazz bands and other nights they bring in somebody with an acoustic guitar. Either way, it's a great atmosphere that's always full of locals and visitors alike. It has a one-of-kind ambience that shouldn't be missed if you are in the area.
(5)
Derek Z.
Great service. Cool atmosphere. Good food. I like tapped style. Get the fries.
(4)
Susan V.
I agree with Dave T. The happy hour here is one of the best I've found in the Newtown area and I could eat the truffle fries for breakfast, lunch or dinner. They have something like 20 beers on tap, which is enough for me. Issacs has more beer options but I've never had a good meal there. If you haven't been to The Black Horse Tavern in the last month or so, I suggest you try the "new" happy hour. It runs from Mon-Sat from 5-7 pm. I really like the revolutionary vibe, too.
(4)
David S.
We absolutely love this place! It has a great tavern vibe to it, has a great happy hour, and when the owner is there, he shakes every customer's hand and thanks them for coming. The food is quite good, granted we have only eaten happy hour food, and very reasonable in price (again, happy hour prices). He also does a ten or so question trivia in the evening and if you get a question right, you get a free drink. Great vibe, good people, good food, and good booze...what more can you ask for?
(5)
Dave T.
This is a solid place with a good happy hour. They have a good beer selection, although not as good as isaacs, their food is lightyears better. Great decor and a good place to have drinks and have a meal. The flatbreads and truffle fries are tasty, and are half off during happy hour. They also have some other good stuff like lamb meatballs, and beef shortrib sandwich but i didn't see it on the menu last time i was there. The menu does change frequently, which isn't necessarily a bad thing! I'm not sure what the previous reviewer meant about the vibe being forced, but it's pretty fun when i go there.
(4)
M R.
I made a reservation in mid-January for dinner for 4 and was very excited to try Black Horse. The menu looked promising, however, I will never know. When we arrived at Black Horse, we stood in the entry for about 5 minutes before being acknowledged. Then we were told to move to the bar area. When I mentioned to the host that we had a reservation he replied with 'That's nice, darlin', but some people are as considerate [to the fact] that you have a reservation and its going to be awhile.' First of all, don't call me 'darlin'' and use such a snide tone. Secondly, Black Horse had my phone number. Why didn't they call to tell me that there was a delay? We left and had an amazing dinner at Duck Sauce.
(1)
janis k.
This restaurant has been in business for three years and we finally decided to try it . We were greeted by the friendly owner and immediately felt like we were off to a good start. Unfortunately it went downhill after that. It took 20 minutes to be seated even though there were three empty tables. Service was perfunctory - no one came a single time to ask if we needed anything. We finally had to track down our server to get the check. The food came out tepid but because it took an hour and we were starved we were afraid to send it back. The portions were microscopic and we felt hungry when we left. All in all we were very disappointed.
(2)
Wise C.
Pretty average. Visited with a co-worker to grab dinner, each ordered steak which was way over cooked. Salads were nothing special. Over priced for what you get.
(3)
Henry C S.
I've been here for many a happy hour and I do agree that it's not bad for drinks. However, the service is spotty unless you're sitting at the bar. They say they feature free apps during HH but it consisted of a small bowl of guac and salsa stuck on a barrel in a corner of the front bar with an ever empty plate of what looked like pita bread. I ordered the beet salad for $8 and it was a total waste. It was about 10 small bites of salad...worth half the price. If nothing else sit around and listen to the beautiful people talk about why they're beautiful.
(2)
Lauren D.
I know we're only in April, but I can tell you that my dinner here was the best I've had all year. I can't tell you how many times I've walked away from restaurants wondering how chefs could serve some of the meals that have arrived at my table. Not here. Chef Foga makes his meal with one key ingredient: love. My husband had previously posted to Yelp that he would like more vegetarian meals - Chef actually replied to his post and requested that we ask for him so that he could make a special dinner. Last night we were out with our 3 month old, which I know can spell disaster for many restaurateurs - we were so warmly welcomed by the owner, staff and other patrons that it immediately made us feel good just being in the restaurant. Gaelle, the host, went out of her way to find a baby-friendly table. On our rare night out, we were of course interested in libations right away. BHT has a healthy selection of craft and mega-brewery beers (not to mention martinis and wine). The Franzsikaner was extremely fresh and the Naked Brewing Co's Pomegranate Hefe so refreshing. Dan, our friendly and genuinely kind waiter, obliged us with the complete list from memory (although a written menu might be helpful too) - so many great options. For our appetizer, we had the mushroom flatbread. I generally like this appetizer when I've had it elsewhere, but this one sets the standard for all others going forward - nice meaty mushrooms on top of a mild but tasty cheese - on the perfectly crisp yet soft flatbread. No pre-fabricated appetizer feeling here - seriously freshly made and would be perfect for just a night of drinks and appetizers. Chef did not disappoint on our entrees. Sight unseen, I agreed to try whatever he made. I can't even generalize my meal as a stir-fry, because that wouldn't do it justice. The meal had carrots, asparagus, tomatoes, red cabbage, tofu and penne all perfectly chopped and topped with a soy marinade. It's one of those meals that you feel great after you eat it because it's not only tasty but healthy as well. If I hit Mega Millions, I will be hiring Robert Foga as my personal chef. After dinner, Chef even asked me to call a day or so ahead and he would get whatever ingredients were needed for another special vegetarian meal! My husband had the Scottish salmon and crab cake dinner. I can tell that this is one of the menu's signature dishes. At $22, it's a bargain - the nice-sized portions of fish look extremely fresh -- by the way, the crab cake is all crab. I won't repeat my husband's previous post, but it was yet again a terrific meal. If you're looking for an extra special night out, strongly consider Black Horse Tavern. You'll have a fabulous meal made with love in a very warm setting.
(5)
Jessica F.
The food was very mediocre and very over priced service was bad. Sorry but would not recommend it.
(2)
Melissa L.
This place has improved dramatically, nice place for drinks and appetizers especially. There seafood was really good and fresh. They have a nice selection on tap and a old rustic feel. Bar isn't huge but comfy.
(4)
Milo Y.
Cool ambiance. Owner cool with the handshakes, way over priced for the crab cake and the fish and chips for what you would expect. Quality excellent, but not one of a kind to support the price of the food.
(3)
Lauren T.
Horrible horrible service. We walked in and the place was empty. Sat down at the bar which was occupied only by employees. As soon as we sat down every employee disappeared. So we waited about five minutes for someone to finally come back and take our drink order. Once that happened we were once again ignored. I actually had the audacity to ask the bartender a question. The MANAGER of the bar looked at me as if I was the rudest person and then proceeded to ignore me all together. All in all, the place sucked. I've never been treated that way before. Period. Let alone treated that way at an establishment that I'm PAYING to be in. I'll never go back.
(1)
Jeff B.
Great ambience, two small bars. It is a little local gem in Newtown. Great place for a drink or two. If you like the tapas style then you will enjoy the food. We usually get filet mignon.
(3)
April G.
We went tonight for the Monday night locals menu. The eggplant parm and tilapia lemoncello were so "New York" good that we asked to give our compliments to the chef. Should have known..the chef is the former owner and chef of Il Sol Toscano - Joe came out to say hello. Glad to see they've handed the reins to someone so talented as him. And what a great priced menu. Will go every Monday night for such great fare!
(5)
Ashley S.
I came here recently on a Thursday evening for dinner and a drink. This place was pretty low key, calm and relaxing. They were playing some French music at the time which was a nice and unexpected change. The beer menu wasn't extremely impressive but they had a few good options. My brother and I both ordered the standard burger and fries. Seasoning on the burger was good and the cheese and prosciutto topping was a nice touch. I loved the taste of the focaccia they served it on - my only complaint is that they toasted it a little too much and it was kind of hard to bite into. Fries appeared to be fresh cut and were tasty - kind of small in portion size, but that's probably a good thing! Overall a nice little place to grab a quick bite and a beer.
(3)
Lauren L.
Will not be returning. The service was awful, we stood in the vestibule for about ten minutes before even being acknowledge by anyone despite being passes by at least four waiters/waitresses. We ordered drinks as soon as we say down and they never came. Finally they showed up AFTET our food was halfway gone. The food was just as disappointing as the service. Our burgers were served on stale rolls with soggy onion rings. When our bill came we saw that we were charged double for our drinks when they should have been free considering how late they arrived during our meal. Then when we notified the waiter we were questioned as if we were lying in order to get one over on them. The entire experience was completely horrible and I cannot believe that this place is still in business considering the area, I would think that people would have caught on by now.
(2)
Gerald S.
As the nearest watering hole to my Newtown office, Black Horse is a great place for an after work happy hour stop. I just walk over for an hour, have a beer, martini or margarita and a nibble of pretty good bar food specials, and make my way home. It is also perfect for pre/post meeting meetings to prep/rehash the issue of the moment. I usually find my buds upstairs in a cluster, but we have been known to find a corner downstairs to stand around in as we strategize or just blow off steam. The alcohol is what swings this dark horse, but the kitchen does turn out some quality dishes. The wings, dumplings, Mexi/Texi tapas, and even the burgers are done well, though their concepts may be different than you have experienced elsewhere. Too, you gotta like the overall atmosphere of the old place. The renovations have not detracted from the historical marker that this tavern has been over many many years. After one drink it is easy to imagine the Continental Army marching down State Street on its way to Washington Crossing. After two drinks you realize that there are Tory sympathizers in the bar. After three, the Sons of Liberty are ready to throw them out into the street. I have not actually sat down for a full dinner here. No particular reason other than the circumstances of the day. The prices are higher than my other favorite watering hole, The Clubhouse, but the differential can be explained by the ambiance and the targeted customers. Depending on my mood, BHT can be exactly right, particularly if planning the next skirmish in the War of Independence.
(4)
Jamie M.
I really wanted to like this place. I wanted it to be our new place when we moved into the area. I left my first dinner here thinking that it was both pretty terrible and terribly expensive. They are basically charging fine dining prices for highly mediocre food. That really pisses me off. I gave them two stars because I did like the truffle fries, but they were also insanely overpriced. We had a reservation and it was fairly early on a Friday night. They didn't have a decent table available as everything seemed to be reserved. Funny, I thought we had also reserved, but maybe I don't understand what reservation means. I think they were also out of a couple of the entrees that my table of four tried to order. The food was just meh, but with the outrageous prices for what it was, it made it taste even worse. I don't plan to return. Some places don't deserve a second chance. I honestly can't understand all the glowing reviews, but I have observed some grade inflation in the greater Newtown area.
(2)
Rachel B.
My husband and I went here on St. Paddy's day to hear a local band playing. There wasn't any space downstairs so we went upstairs to sit at a table. It took at least 15 minutes to get a beer menu and another 10 minutes for the waitress to take our food & drink order. After an additional hour ( 1 1/2 hours total since sitting) we still hadn't received any food. We only ordered simple bar food (chicken tenders, fries, and calamari). We end up leaving money for our beers on the table and walking out. A few other tables around us had cancelled their food order because of the insane wait time.
(1)
Mike M.
So we are in on a Wednesday night and trying this place for the first time. My first impression. Stay away. Service is abysmal. Waitstaff is rude, slow not very attentive. 2 guys just did not care. We will never go back. Food was fair. How can you screw up a Burger and salad. What a mess. 1 star
(1)
Jenn B.
So after raving about your food to our family we all ordered over $100 in JUST burgers and fries for dinner one weekday evening --your burgers were dry shiveled versions of the buttery soft ones we previously enjoyed, the truffle fries were limp water logged barely covered in what you call aioli (not at all worth $11)..and that left 4 people still hungry and pissed at me for ever having vouched for you:(
(1)
Ashley R.
I recently went to this restaurant the food is excellent. The martinis are incredible a bit expensive but they have great happy hour!! The have a piano bar and it is really fun on the weekend nights they have DJs. They also have cute outside seating! This is a great place to go
(5)
Phil Y.
We went for a late weeknight dinner/snack. We were the only people at the bar for the first 30 minutes and only one other person came in while we were there, so I guess it's only crowded on weekends and during happy hour. Ordered the truffle fries which everyone recommended. Didn't taste a ton of truffle oil but the fries themselves were well prepared, crispy and flavorful. The cheese and aioli were a nice touch. However, $11 for a medium sized portion is way overpriced in my opinion. If I did it over again, I'd just try to order a side of plain fries. Sliders were decent sized and I'd say pretty standard for bar food. Nice selection of beers on tap. May go back during happy hour or trivia night.
(3)
Jeff M.
A sad day. They have definately fallen down. Tonight only 6-7 beers on tap, about 10-12 out and covered with Crown Royal bags. "Because of the holidays." Not busy like it used to be. Then some of the beers are not on happy hour. Crazy. We won't be back. There are other craft bar bars locally.
(1)
Flavia C.
Leaning towards a 4 1/2 star! I really enjoyed this place. Historic, beautiful intimate with plenty of options for your night. Downstairs is fun happy hour atmosphere, with DJ's and specials. Upstairs there is a hip piano bar and the music is great. I opted for the formal dining room where I could hear the music in the background but feel as if I had been transported back over 100 years when the place was built. The drinks are great and the food is fantastic. The duck dish anyway. The waiter who was fun, knowledgeable and patient when we closed the place down & didn't rush us at all --recommended the duck dish rather forcefully as in you can't leave here without trying it:) Boy am I glad he did. It melted in your mouth, with gnocchi and spinach. I'm writing this review in large part because I really wanted to go back but couldn't recall the name so now I have it saved:) Def. worth checking out for a nice date, happy hour downstairs,. a night out with the girls in the piano bar you name it!
(4)
Phyllis F.
Not good. Waited an hour for our appetizer and meal. The waitress was also the barmaid, as was the waiter. No bread served or offered. Bacon wrapped shrimp with jalapeño grits consisted of limp bacon and flavorless grits. Dinner was Scallops with crab risotto and peas ($27) The waitress asked what "side" I wanted, which confused me since the meal seemed complete without a side. So I wound up with 3 scallops (not seared) cut in half to give the appearance of more, cold mashed potatoes, no crab risotto, and peas. After the disappointing meal I didn't finish, I was not offered coffee or dessert and again had to flag the waiter down to pay out disappointing $75 bill (martinis $13 ea) after $10 comp. I would not recommend eating here I have had good meals here before and am not sure what changed, but tonight's meal was exceedingly disappointing. A complete waste of money.
(1)
C M.
I am from the Lower Bucks County area, and though this would be a great place to bring my fiancee and my parents and other family together for dinner (we live out of town now) to show her Newtown, and what I remembered to be a really cool colonial tavern and restaurant. Unfortunately the place is under new management since the last time I had been there and the whole experience was just bizarre. I called the restaurant a few days in advance to make reservations, since we would be a party of 8, and asked if they would be having the live jazz quartet during the time we would be there for dinner, and I was told absolutely, yes. During our dinner, no jazz to be found, however one of the bus boys or waiters was playing their hard rock/heavy metal playlist while we were eating (this is supposed to be a nice place!). Then comes the food, I had the lobster bisque, which tasted like the jalapeño cheese whiz, that you dip your pretzel into. In fact, all of the soups and appetizers were nuclear hot with pepper or hot sauce, and no one could eat them. My sister also had chicken parm that was practically crusted in red pepper - it literally burnt the skin off her mouth. The table service was also terrible, I had to ask for bread, and instead of some fresh bread or hot rolls (which you might expect at a place where the average price per head is $60+), we got some stale sliced bread, that looked like it came from the leftover bin at the grocery store. The waiter was also very strange, often standing by the table and interjecting himself into our conversations, while forgetting to bring drinks and other things we asked him for. Totally bizarre. Finally "one of the owners" comes up to our table, still cold from the outside, and jacket on, comes up and shakes my hand (and all other 8 people at the table) while we're eating, explains he is the manager, and goes on for almost 10 minutes in an awkward one way conversation. I'm all about owners making connections with their guests, thats how you make a new comer a regular, but he didn't even tell us his name, or ask us how the food was. He was also dressed like he had just been working on a utility pole. I kind of wanted to wash my hands. Oh and here's the kicker - they didn't have desert. We asked if they usually do and they said yes, but this particular high traffic Saturday night they just didn't. I mean they could have picked up an ice cream cake at the grocery store when they got that old bread! Jeez. Finally, as we're about to leave the jazz group starts playing. The weird thing was no one turned off the hard rock music and the two were competing with each other as the employees of the restaurant walked around not seeming to notice two types of music were going full force at the same time. No hard feelings, just extremely strange.
(1)
Christa B.
We love the atmosphere; very intimate setting as well as cozy. Beer selection is nice; something for the craft beer people as well as the everyday beers. Haven't had the food here but the service from the bar is excellent. Great place for people to go.
(4)
Priya M.
Tapas who? Nothing on the menu screamed tapas..bar food mostly..truffle fries were good and mayo filled..wings seemed old/frozen...slim picking on drink menu..but wine was surprisingly good..noisy and not really a getting out experience but had good prompt service
(3)
Andrew W.
I was in Newton on a random Saturday night, a friend and I were going to try out a golf simulator nearby and we figured we could find a place on the State Street strip to grab a quick bite to eat. Never having been to Newton, I was pleasantly surprised by the community, its a really interesting area with some very, very old buildings and Victorian houses. Anyway, we saw the Black Horse Tavern when driving around and figured we'd pop in for food. Neither of us realized it was a restaurant, not a bar/tavern, so we were thrown off a bit when they asked if we had reservations. They fit us, but were kind of rude about it "We have tables available NOW, but you'll have to be out by 8:00." That theme continued with the small note card on our table that said soothing to the effect of how there are reservations after you, so be mindful of your time. Have they had issues with this? Are people not aware that you might have people with reservations after you in a public restaurant? It was bizarre. The food we had was good. Since we were trying to be quick we had burgers - I went with the Tavern Burger (very good cheese and sauteed onions) and my buddy had the regular burger. Both were seasoned and cooked well... and allowed us to depart without upsetting the people who had reservations next to us. Thank god. It was a nice place and most of the meals that came out of the kitchen seemed to look appetizing, but the vibe I got from the whole "eat and leave" mentality kind of spoiled it.
(3)
A R.
Have been here before and liked it... but not anymore. Poor service, sour wine, mediocre food - and we had to wait an hour to get our dinner. This restaurant is sinking.... fast! Too bad. They lost 2 more customers last night.
(1)
Amy H.
Went here with a friend a couple months ago, and I came to Yelp looking for the name of this place because I wanted to potentially go back. That's the first sign this place made a favorable mark in my mind. The Black Horse Tavern delivered solid food, and really nice "date" atmosphere (at least on a week night - can't speak to the noise on the weekend, haven't seen it). The truffle fries were phenomenal, and the drinks were good, strong, but balanced. It's a great little "unknown" spot for good conversation in an intimate setting. Happy to patronize them again.
(4)
Christina L.
Being new to the area, I am always on a mission to find great local spots, and this fits the bill. I read other Yelp review (which is how I often determine where to go) and I have to agree that the food is great, and the venue is awesome. The truffle fries are fantastic, but I was surprised they came in one of those cheap wooden salad bowls... how about a fries stand? Something to up the presentation? My penne a la vodka was great too, though a little expensive, in my opinion, for what you get. Being from NY, I know high prices, and it seems that the food here is a little too high priced for what you get. I do love the atmosphere and how there are separate rooms for dining, and bars... upstairs is an awesome piano bar lounge, and downstairs are two more bars. It almost feels like you're in a vintage stone home- it's great. Lastly, and this has nothing to do with food, is the upstairs dining room is DRAFTY and barren. I ate dinner with my coat on. I love the wooden slats in the ceiling but you can hardly see them contrast against the dark red walls. I do wonder also why there is no artwork or lighting somewhere to add more to the ambiance? There's a gorgeous stone fireplace but it is blocked by a 4-top table. I think a much better job could be done with the space upstairs (for dining). I definitely would recommend this place and I definitely will be back
(4)
Debby H.
What a delicious experience! Two of us used a Groupon & so glad we found this restaurant. It was a busy Saturday night & we waited a few minutes for our upstairs table to be ready. We had a terrific server...so pleasant & efficient! We shared a delicious seafood flatbread. My friend had the wild salmon & crab cake; I had the 10 oz rib eye that came with your choice of vegetables and sauces. I chose truffle butter as my sauce & roasted potatoes and spinach. The dish was brought with mashed potatoes, but it didn't matter since they were delicious, the steak perfection at medium rare & despite being 19 degrees outside, the food was served hot! We loved that the owner came around to shake our hand, bring us water refills and chat with us when we stopped him to compliment him on the experience. No doubt I'll be back, and my friend said the same!
(4)
Kendall B.
Happy Hour--a time, usually between the hours of 6-8, when drinks are offered at reduced prices, encouraging co-workers to mingle outside of the office setting. This is what Happy Hour used to be-back in the 1990s when people had jobs and could afford to keeping purchasing cocktails long after the drink specials had ended. But with the unemployment rate ticking ever higher, the definition of Happy Hour is changing: it is no longer only a place for the over-worked to release steam, it is also a valuable networking tool for the unemployed to try to find work. And bar/restaurant owners are recognizing this paradigm shift caused by the economic recession, offering better drink prices, extending discounts to include menu items, and even beginning their Happy Hours earlier in the day (before the 9-5er's are released from their cubicles). As an unemployed college graduate (or stay-at-home-daughter, as I prefer to say), I recognize the valuable opportunity that Happy Hours provide for networking (and budgeting) and I try to make it out to one each week. Of course, I also need to vent my frustrations of failed interviews and wasted cover letters! Right now my favorite Happy Hour hands-down is The Black Horse Tavern in Newtown. They do it all right: Starts at 5 pm, ends at 7 pm (Mon-Sat) $3 drafts, $4 wines, and $6 martinis 1/2 price menu items Trivia on Friday nights (for free drink prizes-I won one last week!) Free bar food available during Happy Hour (usually their delicious flatbreads!) In my opinion, it's the best deal in town and like all good things, it draws a consistent crowd. Aka: If you get there after 5 pm expect to sip your delicious martini while standing! They have an extensive speciality martini list, but I recommend the Grapefruit Bubbling Cosmo with Ruby Red Vodka, Cointreau, Lime Juice, Cranberry Juice, all topped off with a splash of Champagne. It has a perfect blend of citrus without tasting artificial. As far as bar food goes, YOU MUST GET THE TRUFFLE FRIES!!! They come topped with Parmesan Cheese and Belgian Aioli and they are to die for! I also really like the flatbreads at this place. The Margarita is very simple but delicious made with fresh mozzarella, fresh basil, oregano, olive oil, and spicy marinara sauce. It's tasty finger food that is easy to share, and I've got to admit that it is better than some of the pizza places I've tried in these neck of the woods. Last but not least, I also tried the Caesar Salad with crisp hearts of romaine and a garlicky brioche crostini, dressed to perfection with a Caesar drizzle. It was a great portion for like $4, which is definitely recession-approved pricing!
(5)
Walter C.
Dropped by there again and brought the kids. As usual a fantastic meal for all! Flat breads were terrific! My son loved his special made surf and turf. Thanks Robert! And my daughter loved her seafood trio. This place never let's me down.
(4)
John G.
It was OK. That's all I can really say. The atmosphere is cozy and nice, but the food isn't the best, especially for the prices. Their truffle fries are good, but it seems like the portions have decreased over the past couple of years. Unless I get a Groupon, I won't be coming back to this place. Too many other nice restaurants around at better prices. Sorry, I wish I could give it a 'thumbs up'...but I just can't.
(2)
Samantha P.
I'm struggling with the star rating, but I think the Black Horse Tavern deserves three stars. My boyfriend and I went here for dinner on a Friday night. Here's what I liked about the place: Location & atmosphere: at 6:30 on a Friday, this place had a pretty good amount of people, which is always nice. They sat us at a very cute table against the stone brick wall, which felt a little secluded and I liked that. It's like we were tucked away. It looks like they have two bars which is pretty cool. Bar menu and happy hour: the drinks and the fries were excellent. I will go back just for that. And let me tell you, white creamy mayo stuff freaks me out, but I was able to suck up and deal because the truffle fries were that good. And my french martini was excellent. Where the Tavern went awry: In addition to the fries, we ordered mahi mahi tacos and I could smell them the second they came to the table. And it was not a good smell. I took a bite and it tasted fine, but the smell was overwhelmingly bad. I'm honestly surprised it got past the cook and the waiters. So, we just passed on that and waited for our entrees. My entree was very good - I ordered the duck with mushrooms and gnocchi. This gnocchi wasn't typical, it was fried and wasn't very potatoey but I'm not complaining - it was delicious. My boyfriends entree on the other hand was pretty bizarre. When he ordered the short ribs he was given the choice of 5 different "sauces", the last one being a mushroom sauce. But when he got his entree there was no sauce, just some meat and mushrooms on the side. It was dry! But here is the most bizarre part... these were not short ribs. I have cooked short ribs 50+ times in my life. This was more like slices of pot roast. Albeit, the meat was tender and well-seasoned, but it really could have used some kind of gravy. So take from my review what you will. The place has potential but maybe you just have to order the right thing. I would stick with the drinks, the bar food and stay away from the seafood...
(3)
Gnomer B.
Like many others who wrote a glowing review of Black Horse's happy hour, I too am a fan. I came in last Friday night for the first time and met two friends at the bar. This place is QUAINT AS HELL. If you like quaint taverns, with a historic feel, you will get that here. The decor is lovely; the back wall of the bar is stone. STONE, YOU HEAR ME? Being all colonial and shit. Love me some stone walls. Anyway, the happy hour prices are fantastic for Newtown. $3 pints? Yes, please, I will have all the beers. My friends ordered some truffle fries, which were also discounted for happy hour, and I tasted them and immediately got a raging food boner. The two bartender dudes on staff were attentive and friendly, and refilled our beers promptly despite how packed it was getting in there. The crowd was of the older sort, but very upbeat and friendly people. Like hanging out with your parents cool friends, if your parents have cool friends. Mine don't. As we were leaving the owner was shaking everyone's hands and thanking them for coming. I didn't realize he had tried to shake mine until after I had breezed on by, snubbing the poor guy. SORRY MANG. I'll do better next time, and will certainly frequent your establishment again.
(4)
Neil G.
My wife and I came here for dinner on a Friday night. It's located in a town called Newtown PA, which I am not very familiar with but seems very nice. Upon walking in, we realized we must have walked through the wrong entrance. We walked through the bar and found the hostess at the entrance we should have come in on. At first we were kind of worried that the only formal seating was in the bar area because 1) There weren't that many tables, and 2) The bar was very crowded, and kind of loud. Not a bad thing, and what you would expect from a bar on a Friday night, just not the atmosphere we were looking for on our date night out. After finding the hostess, we were pleasantly surprised that they have a whole other floor for formal dining. Very different atmosphere from downstairs, exactly what we were looking for. Nice, quiet, ambiance, etc... We were given the option to sit by the window which was nice, and shortly after we were greeted by our fantastic waitress Guyel (I know I mispelled that, sorry Guyel). She took our drink order and notified us that we still have 20 minutes for Happy Hour pricing. If you've read any of my reviews, you know I'm a big beer guy. $3 for anything on draft, and that included craft beers. This is the best deal I've seen in a long time. I ended up ordering 2 dogfish head 60 minute ipas. Everything was going great until we found out they removed the only vegetarian entree on the menu which my wife, being vegetarian, was planning on ordering. We obviously have to be very mindful of where we are eating because of her dietary constraint and always look up menus online before we chose a place to eat at. She ended up having to order a few vegetarian appetizers, the hummus plate and vege dumplings. The hummus was just ok, not much flavor. The dumplings on the other hand were probably the best vege dumplings I've ever eaten. I think she regrets not ordering two of them. My dinner on the other hand was fantastic. I ordered the Scottish Salmon and Crab Cake Entree and I was very happy with my decision. The Salmon sat on a bead of mashed potatoes, broccoli rabe and a crab cake with some type white sauce which really made the dish. Salmon was cooked to perfection, portion was just right. It was a $22 dish, but I say well worth the money. I can honestly say it was one of the best dinners I've eaten in a while. Overall, I think the service was great, food was amazing, I just hope they add one or more vegetarian entrees to the menu. That would definitely keep us coming back.
(4)
Joan M.
Took my husband parents there. We had a groupon which was a very good deal. Upon arriving we had eight o'clock reservation we were seated immediatly taken to our table where we we're greeted by the owner which was a very nice touch. The server was very nice food totally amazing. After dinner we went into the piano room for a after dinner drink which was really nice too. Overall excellent experience. We definitely will be back with or without a groupon.
(5)
Donna K.
Seated at 8:30. Cesar's salads not served til 9:15. Did not see waiter until then. Steak was served raw. Had to send back and it came back mid rare when order med well. Potatoes were disgusting left the worst after taste. Veggies were definitely frozen. Out of multiple dishes on the menu. Restaurant is filthy. Will not come back. Ever.
(1)
Aasima A.
We have been to downtown Newtown a few times before but that was for the best ice cream! this time, we were hungry and wanted actual food. We checked Yelp and sauntered into the Black Horse Tavern. The inside is really charming, with nice exposed brick walls, and wood staircase, etc. There weren't to many people at the bar but we chose to sit at a table. Ordered a few things and then the afterwork/ regular crowd started filling up the place. As I looked around though I couldn't help but notice THERE IS NO DIVERSITY. All the patrons there looked the same: same polo/ collared short and khacki shorts or jean and some type of sandal or sneaker. No one of color, no one from any other socio-economic group. It didn't make me uncomfortable, because I for one love trying new things and because the servers and bartender were great and didn't make me feel any type of way, but was weird in a Twilight Zone kind of way. The food was decent, just small portions. We had to get extra appetizers at the end of our dinner because most of us were still hungry. Over all was cool to finally get inside and see what the hype was, but i don't know if we'll go back unless out of nessesity. Decent place, but the small portions and high prices are not warranted. Maybe the crows is differrent later in the evening or on the weekend.
(2)
Sarah S.
Formerly "The Grotto" ..... Great happy hour place and good for live music on the weekends too. I'm a regular here and love the atmosphere. However, I have not had a meal here in a while so I can't speak for the eats
(4)
Gerrianne M.
I've been here twice so far, and both times with my "fellow mom friends", for a kid-free, husband-free night out. The first time, we stumbled into Black Horse Tavern because it was nearby and it had a live band. Someone had a 50th birthday party there that night, so it was very crowded. I wasn't sure if it was unique to that night, but the place definitely had an older crowd. The second time, we chose Black Horse Tavern because we had a Groupon and it turned out to be a great deal. The food, however, was not so great. Most of the items on the menu sounded delicious! You could order anything from pasta, to hamburgers, to eggrolls, to fajitas. I should have known this was strange to have such a wide variety of menu items in a bar/ tavern/ restaurant. I was torn between the vodka riggatoni and a hamburger. I was in the mood for a good burger, and didn't think I could go wrong in this place. Well, I was wrong. It wasn't great, and was regretting my choice, but my friend had ordered the vodka rigs and they had absolutely NO TASTE! I was so disappointed. The atmosphere is pretty nice though, the bar and open space for the band/ dancing is on the main level. Upstairs is the private piano bar area and the restaurant. It was perfect for the night we had planned, because we could sit upstairs for as long as we wanted to chat, without being disrupted by the band,etc. The only down side to that was, we were seated right next to the bathroom. There is only 1 restroom for each gender, and for some reason, both had lines all night long, or at least throughout our dinner. It was distracting because the line kept creeping into our table. After that, we ventured downstairs to check out the band, which was pretty good and played a variety of music. The crowd was diverse in ages, from folks in their 50's to 40's, and then us in our 30's, however it seemed that we were the youngest ones there. So overall, this play was just Ehhhh... in my opinion.
Terrific happy hour! Great beer and wine specials and friendly bartenders...the owner is there a lot and makes sure everyone is happy...a really good thing! The Dark Horse burger...the bride and I...who've had them all over the country...rate the house burger as number one...a bit expensive but worth every penny!
(5)
Dave T.
This is a solid place with a good happy hour. They have a good beer selection, although not as good as isaacs, their food is lightyears better. Great decor and a good place to have drinks and have a meal. The flatbreads and truffle fries are tasty, and are half off during happy hour. They also have some other good stuff like lamb meatballs, and beef shortrib sandwich but i didn't see it on the menu last time i was there. The menu does change frequently, which isn't necessarily a bad thing! I'm not sure what the previous reviewer meant about the vibe being forced, but it's pretty fun when i go there.
(4)
M R.
I made a reservation in mid-January for dinner for 4 and was very excited to try Black Horse. The menu looked promising, however, I will never know. When we arrived at Black Horse, we stood in the entry for about 5 minutes before being acknowledged. Then we were told to move to the bar area. When I mentioned to the host that we had a reservation he replied with 'That's nice, darlin', but some people are as considerate [to the fact] that you have a reservation and its going to be awhile.' First of all, don't call me 'darlin'' and use such a snide tone. Secondly, Black Horse had my phone number. Why didn't they call to tell me that there was a delay? We left and had an amazing dinner at Duck Sauce.
(1)
janis k.
This restaurant has been in business for three years and we finally decided to try it . We were greeted by the friendly owner and immediately felt like we were off to a good start. Unfortunately it went downhill after that. It took 20 minutes to be seated even though there were three empty tables. Service was perfunctory - no one came a single time to ask if we needed anything. We finally had to track down our server to get the check. The food came out tepid but because it took an hour and we were starved we were afraid to send it back. The portions were microscopic and we felt hungry when we left. All in all we were very disappointed.
(2)
Wise C.
Pretty average. Visited with a co-worker to grab dinner, each ordered steak which was way over cooked. Salads were nothing special. Over priced for what you get.
(3)
Lauren D.
I know we're only in April, but I can tell you that my dinner here was the best I've had all year. I can't tell you how many times I've walked away from restaurants wondering how chefs could serve some of the meals that have arrived at my table. Not here. Chef Foga makes his meal with one key ingredient: love. My husband had previously posted to Yelp that he would like more vegetarian meals - Chef actually replied to his post and requested that we ask for him so that he could make a special dinner. Last night we were out with our 3 month old, which I know can spell disaster for many restaurateurs - we were so warmly welcomed by the owner, staff and other patrons that it immediately made us feel good just being in the restaurant. Gaelle, the host, went out of her way to find a baby-friendly table. On our rare night out, we were of course interested in libations right away. BHT has a healthy selection of craft and mega-brewery beers (not to mention martinis and wine). The Franzsikaner was extremely fresh and the Naked Brewing Co's Pomegranate Hefe so refreshing. Dan, our friendly and genuinely kind waiter, obliged us with the complete list from memory (although a written menu might be helpful too) - so many great options. For our appetizer, we had the mushroom flatbread. I generally like this appetizer when I've had it elsewhere, but this one sets the standard for all others going forward - nice meaty mushrooms on top of a mild but tasty cheese - on the perfectly crisp yet soft flatbread. No pre-fabricated appetizer feeling here - seriously freshly made and would be perfect for just a night of drinks and appetizers. Chef did not disappoint on our entrees. Sight unseen, I agreed to try whatever he made. I can't even generalize my meal as a stir-fry, because that wouldn't do it justice. The meal had carrots, asparagus, tomatoes, red cabbage, tofu and penne all perfectly chopped and topped with a soy marinade. It's one of those meals that you feel great after you eat it because it's not only tasty but healthy as well. If I hit Mega Millions, I will be hiring Robert Foga as my personal chef. After dinner, Chef even asked me to call a day or so ahead and he would get whatever ingredients were needed for another special vegetarian meal! My husband had the Scottish salmon and crab cake dinner. I can tell that this is one of the menu's signature dishes. At $22, it's a bargain - the nice-sized portions of fish look extremely fresh -- by the way, the crab cake is all crab. I won't repeat my husband's previous post, but it was yet again a terrific meal. If you're looking for an extra special night out, strongly consider Black Horse Tavern. You'll have a fabulous meal made with love in a very warm setting.
(5)
Jessica F.
The food was very mediocre and very over priced service was bad. Sorry but would not recommend it.
(2)
Melissa L.
This place has improved dramatically, nice place for drinks and appetizers especially. There seafood was really good and fresh. They have a nice selection on tap and a old rustic feel. Bar isn't huge but comfy.
(4)
Monet E.
My beginning words to you and my friends are: Truffle Fries. Okay, so now that I have that out of the way, I must say that their Happy Hour is amazing, with $3.00 beers, $4.00 glasses of wine, and $5.00 martinis. Since, I am a major beer drinker, I go there for the $3.00 pints of beer and enjoy myself each time. The last time that I went, I met a really cool male bartender, it was during the week. Yesterday (Saturday) I went for their happy hour with two other friends who have never been, and was waited on by two rather lovely female bartenders. One was nicer than the other, but overall the customer service was pretty good. I love the hometown feel and the co-owner Michael came out and welcomed me and my friends to his restaurant. He and I had some great conversations about travel, beer, food, etc. That conversation added even more to the already homey/pleasant environment. So, yesterday I had my truffle fries (of course), the chicken tamale, and a piece of the mushroom flat bread, which were all very cheap (happy hour prices). I am in love with this place. If you are looking for an happy hour which is Mon-Fri with various delish beers on tap, good wine, and strong martinis, and truffle fries to die for, then The Black Horse Tavern is the place to be!!!
(5)
Mike T.
We went to this restaurant on Saturday the 12th. The WORST experience that I have EVER had. Here is why: -They were running 30 minutes late for our reservation. -Bar was out of MANY beers - Including staples such as Coors Light, Miller Lite and Guiness. -People at the bar told us "good luck trying to order a drink". -When we finally sat at our table, we were then given two different menus. -The Server came and was very dejected when he had to tell us that they were out of Filet, Samon, Flank Steak as well as some other entrees. -That waiter was pleased that we asked to speak with the manager because "they are on the front lines all night". -At that we decided to leave. -We asked for the manager - who was snarky, CURSED and gave us a false name. -DO NOT GO TO THIS RESTAURANT! We thought that they had potential but simply do not care!
(1)
David S.
We absolutely love this place! It has a great tavern vibe to it, has a great happy hour, and when the owner is there, he shakes every customer's hand and thanks them for coming. The food is quite good, granted we have only eaten happy hour food, and very reasonable in price (again, happy hour prices). He also does a ten or so question trivia in the evening and if you get a question right, you get a free drink. Great vibe, good people, good food, and good booze...what more can you ask for?
(5)
Joe L.
Although the menu doesn't have many offerings, everything on it is delicious that I have tried so far. The flatbreads are good, but not as good as the pizzas used to be. Go with a burger and some truffle fries and you won't be disappointed. As far as staff go, the bartenders are all very nice. The owner is usually strolling around making sure everyone is taken care of. I have never been seated at a table, so I am not sure how the wait staff is.
(4)
Jooj S.
This bar/restaurant has terrible service. Our server at the bar was downright rude; I believe her name was Christina. Bumping into us, dirty looks and stares, clearing drinks, and ignoring us....pretty much the opposite of what a server/bartender should be. Christina needs to find another job because she is scaring away the customers.
(1)
Theresa H.
Had a Groupon for one appetizer or flatbread and two entrees, so had to try this place. I had been there once before just for drinks during happy hour, but we didn't eat any food. Happy hour drink prices are good, but both times I was there, they were out of a lot of the craft beers on tap. At dinner on a Tuesday early evening, the waitresses excuse for that was that they get their kegs on Tuesdays. Well, it was 6:30 p.m. When were you going to tap them? AND, the time I went for happy hour, it was a Saturday! So what was the reason then? So dinner on Tuesday didn't start off so well. Made a reservation on-line, but upon arrival there was no one at the hostess stand - it just said seat yourself. We wanted to eat upstairs, but no one was there. We came back downstairs and there was only one tiny table available (the others had "reserved" signs on them - was one of them supposed to be mine?! no way of knowing since no one was there to tell us!). Finally, someone saw us standing there and I asked if we could sit upstairs. He said "upstairs is closed." So, since it was just the two of us we chose the tiny table (it is a very small area and very noisy with the bar in there). It took quite a while for a waitress to come over and take our drink order. Then it took even longer to get the drinks because she was also bartending! Had I caught on to that sooner, I would have gone up to the bar to get them myself. Food was just so-so. The flatbread was decent, but pretty small. It definitely would not have been worth the $11 had I been paying full price. My husband liked the fisherman's trio entree (I didn't try it). I had the rib-eye and it was only so-so. It was cooked properly, but it wasn't very flavorful other than way too much salt on the meat and side dishes. Again, not horrible - but definitely neither would have been worth the full menu price. Alas, it then took our waitress another looooong time to bring our second drink and another looooooooong time to bring our check. The place was crowded - so why do they have a waitress doing double duty as bartender?? Anyway, we ended up taking our check up to the bar to pay so we didn't have to wait any longer. Bottom line - I would only ever go here again for drinks at happy hour, and possibly the trio of appetizers that everyone seemed to be getting, which looked decent though I don't know what the price was. Lousy service and mediocre food.
(2)
Milo Y.
Cool ambiance. Owner cool with the handshakes, way over priced for the crab cake and the fish and chips for what you would expect. Quality excellent, but not one of a kind to support the price of the food.
(3)
Jerry W.
The highlight was the owner coming out to greet us. We arrived without a reservation on a Saturday night. The hostess seemed aggravated that we just walked in. She sat is by the kitchen door in the bar area. We asked the server to move us and he did. The Asian lettuce wrap was tasty, but super modest. Not worth the $9 price. In general, we felt a little underwhelmed. The owner was nice, but I would not go again. Sorry.
(2)
Jim G.
Amazing food! My family stopped by at around 5:15 on a Thursday night. We ordered the truffle fries and they were the most amazing fries that we ever had! They tasted like sour cream and onion with a touch of garlic with shredded cheese on top. I will be dreaming about them until next time. We also ordered the Fisherman's trio. Everything was delicious....scallops, crabcake and mahi mahi on mashed potatoes drizzled with a lemon butter sauce. The only reason I am giving it a four star is because the dinner portion was very small for $24 and did not come with salad or bread. We also had the pig wings and if you like hot buffalo sauce and ginger together, then this is for you. It was a perfect explosion of both in your mouth. I loved it, family did not. The drinks were great as well. I ordered a chocolate martini which was only $6 for happy hour. Overall, the food was great, the atmosphere was extremely cozy and charming inside. It was dim but I loved that! Will return :))
(4)
Charlie S.
The Black Horse is a great place to come for Happy Hour and to hang out with the after-work "professional" crowd. The bars are classy and the food is great. The menu is always changing and they have some really interesting plates. As far as Newtown goes, this place has some of the best music. Sometimes they bring in jazz bands and other nights they bring in somebody with an acoustic guitar. Either way, it's a great atmosphere that's always full of locals and visitors alike. It has a one-of-kind ambience that shouldn't be missed if you are in the area.
(5)
Derek Z.
Great service. Cool atmosphere. Good food. I like tapped style. Get the fries.
(4)
Susan V.
I agree with Dave T. The happy hour here is one of the best I've found in the Newtown area and I could eat the truffle fries for breakfast, lunch or dinner. They have something like 20 beers on tap, which is enough for me. Issacs has more beer options but I've never had a good meal there. If you haven't been to The Black Horse Tavern in the last month or so, I suggest you try the "new" happy hour. It runs from Mon-Sat from 5-7 pm. I really like the revolutionary vibe, too.
(4)
Corinna G.
We were in Newtown unexpectedly, unfamiliar with the restaurants of the town. We happened upon The Black Horse Tavern and were unexpectedly surprised at the wonderful food and service. The owner went to each table to welcome everyone. Our waiter was excellent from beginning to end. We both got specials. One got the "Three Way Ribs" which were melt in your mouth ribs prepared three totally different ways. One of us got a seafood pot with a potato soup base. Appetizers were fabulous, perfect portion size, crazy unique area beers as well as the usual. The building is old and needs some improvements but it has that old tavern charm a new building will never have. Very friendly, helpful staff. We'll definitely go back.
(5)
Will C.
The fries are amazing and wild mushroom flatbread is awesome! Happy hour is the way to go. Perfect for a snack and drink.
(4)
Mathew M.
Not sure why this place is called tapas. Me and my wife went to have some tapas but there was no tapas menu. Maybe something changed? We basically had bar food - wings and truffle fries. It was okay. Pretty loud place as they have live music both upstairs and downstairs. Might be a good place to go for drinks but not for tapas as I was expecting.
(3)
Pablo G.
I've been to this place a few times and live in Newtown. It has never been my scene but I thought I should yelp a review. The bartender assumed I had a few drinks in me and decided to substitute a single for a ten when returning my change. I will not be returning.
(1)
Veronica K.
I'll preface this by saying I'm only reviewing the bar here; I've never ate any of their food. That being said I really do love this place! Sometimes I'll be in Newtown, usually catching dinner or just walking around, and this is a great little place to stumble into. The interior is dimly lit, but they often have candles on tables which gives it a slightly romantic feel. Their draft list is pretty decent, they have some macros, a few high profile crafts like Sam Adams, and also a bunch of rotating crafts. Every time I go I get to try some interesting brews. Believe me when I say this place is a great last stop for a night out. Just watch out for some of the regulars, a few of them have been a little too boisterous.
(4)
Paul L.
Haven't been back in a few months. My wife's wine was definitely old as it tasted like vinegar. The menu used to be much bigger and really delicious. Really disappointed in the menu and quality. Just didn't care to go back. I guess the bar scene would be ok if you want a small local area on a weekend night.
(1)
Melissa M.
We were here for their hurricane party in August which was the first time since the menu change. I have to say I thoroughly enjoyed the food. There were a couple choices I think we didn't care for but nothing that deserves a negative review. The service was great and the drinks were spot on as well. We were surprised at the crowd that arrived around nine when the dj started. We couldn't help but get up and join them. It was a great evening! We look forward to going back very soon.
(4)
Lolly G.
I moved to New Town about 4 months ago and this was the first bar I went to. I've been hooked since. The happy hour is an awesome deal with great drink specials. If you are a beer drinker you will find some really awesome beers on tap. The food is what makes Black Horse stand out from other bars in the area. It's delicious, fresh, and unique dishes. As a vegetarian, I find it difficult to find places to eat but not here. A favorite of mine is the tofu tacos (that you don't have to be a vegetarian to love) as well as the amazing flat breads. I've tried a few things off of their new menu and they've all been delicious. I am here at least once a week and have told many people to try to it out. Issacs is a competitor across the way but only because of their beer selection. The environment doesn't come close and their food is not good. The only complaint I would have is that one of the bartenders was rude to my group once, but we now avoid her.
(5)
Henry C S.
I've been here for many a happy hour and I do agree that it's not bad for drinks. However, the service is spotty unless you're sitting at the bar. They say they feature free apps during HH but it consisted of a small bowl of guac and salsa stuck on a barrel in a corner of the front bar with an ever empty plate of what looked like pita bread. I ordered the beet salad for $8 and it was a total waste. It was about 10 small bites of salad...worth half the price. If nothing else sit around and listen to the beautiful people talk about why they're beautiful.
(2)
emily c.
I ate here once. I will maybe eat here again. I went for food and not to hang out at a bar, so my review of this place is as an eatery (though I did wash my meal down with an Allagash White which they have on tap alongside some other choice quaffs). I ordered the beet salad and the fish tacos. I wish I had ordered 2 of each- not because they were so good, because they were so small. My server gave me prior warning by suggesting I order 3 dishes, but I was still surprised to see such small plates of food. Fortunately, I'm not fond of stuffing my face silly when I dine, though I can imagine some people may get the feeling they are being ripped off here. I kinda think, when I'm not eating in NYC, a $9 beet salad ought to fulfill a small meal requirement, as should $9 fish tacos. Where taste is concerned, I thought the beet salad was rather lovely- fresh greens and tender beets. My tacos left me wanting the fish more seasoned (and less fishy tasting) and more lime flavor in the lime cream, or served with a wedge of lime for squeezing, and at least a spoonful of seasoned rice. I thought the meal arrived a tad late, but then I feel like I'm being too picky. Besides, the servers were attentive to clearing empty plates, and filling empty glasses. The decor is historic with a modern facelift, pleasantly done, with adequately dimmed lighting. I would come here to to hang out for the bar, and maybe to try the food again.
(2)
Robyn V.
I had a great experience here. I saw the deal they offered on groupon so i figured i'd give it a try. i went during happy hour so the drinks were very reasonably priced and the food was really very tasty. i had the truffle fries and the duck and my niece had the chicken pasta dish. then, when the server heard it was my neice's birthday he brought out a humongous slice of the chocolate peanut butter cake for free, even though we were already using a groupon. (the cake was incredibly delicious, especially with the chocolate martini.) definitely going back here and think the prices are fair for the portions and quality of the food you get.
(4)
Betina L.
This is a nice place for happy hour Good atmosphere very inexpensive beer The owner is super friendly and does Friday trivia with free drinks for participants
(4)
Jelyn F.
The only times I've been here are for Happy Hour. Their half price menu is awesome... the Pig Wings alone make it all worth while.
(4)
Roberta R.
This is not the restaurant of old, don't let the quaint exterior fool you. The stodgy Newtown of the 1990s is thankfully long gone and this is the place to be for good bar food, conversation with the neighbors, jazz upstairs, sports on three tvs downstairs and the best DJ in town in back. For outdoor dining, get there early, the courtyard is small but well worth the wait on a nice Fall day. Don't forget to try the pork wings and fries, they will not disappoint. Regardless of age or musical preferences, this is the place to be every weekend, starting with the jazz on Wednesday right through to the piano bar and dance party on Saturday night. Don't miss it. For a quiet meal, go earlier. For a good light dinner, go any time before the grill closes, I think some time after 10 which is usually when the upstairs piano bar closes and the dance party downstairs really gets going.
Accepts Credit Cards : Yes Parking : Street Bike Parking : Yes Good for Groups : Yes Ambience : Casual Noise Level : Average Music : DJ Good For Dancing : Yes Alcohol : Full Bar Happy Hour : Yes Coat Check : No Outdoor Seating : No Has TV : Yes
Robyn V.
I had a great experience here. I saw the deal they offered on groupon so i figured i'd give it a try. i went during happy hour so the drinks were very reasonably priced and the food was really very tasty. i had the truffle fries and the duck and my niece had the chicken pasta dish. then, when the server heard it was my neice's birthday he brought out a humongous slice of the chocolate peanut butter cake for free, even though we were already using a groupon. (the cake was incredibly delicious, especially with the chocolate martini.) definitely going back here and think the prices are fair for the portions and quality of the food you get.
(4)Betina L.
This is a nice place for happy hour Good atmosphere very inexpensive beer The owner is super friendly and does Friday trivia with free drinks for participants
(4)Jelyn F.
The only times I've been here are for Happy Hour. Their half price menu is awesome... the Pig Wings alone make it all worth while.
(4)Roberta R.
This is not the restaurant of old, don't let the quaint exterior fool you. The stodgy Newtown of the 1990s is thankfully long gone and this is the place to be for good bar food, conversation with the neighbors, jazz upstairs, sports on three tvs downstairs and the best DJ in town in back. For outdoor dining, get there early, the courtyard is small but well worth the wait on a nice Fall day. Don't forget to try the pork wings and fries, they will not disappoint. Regardless of age or musical preferences, this is the place to be every weekend, starting with the jazz on Wednesday right through to the piano bar and dance party on Saturday night. Don't miss it. For a quiet meal, go earlier. For a good light dinner, go any time before the grill closes, I think some time after 10 which is usually when the upstairs piano bar closes and the dance party downstairs really gets going.
(5)Dave T.
This is a solid place with a good happy hour. They have a good beer selection, although not as good as isaacs, their food is lightyears better. Great decor and a good place to have drinks and have a meal. The flatbreads and truffle fries are tasty, and are half off during happy hour. They also have some other good stuff like lamb meatballs, and beef shortrib sandwich but i didn't see it on the menu last time i was there. The menu does change frequently, which isn't necessarily a bad thing! I'm not sure what the previous reviewer meant about the vibe being forced, but it's pretty fun when i go there.
(4)Melissa L.
This place has improved dramatically, nice place for drinks and appetizers especially. There seafood was really good and fresh. They have a nice selection on tap and a old rustic feel. Bar isn't huge but comfy.
(4)Monet E.
My beginning words to you and my friends are: Truffle Fries. Okay, so now that I have that out of the way, I must say that their Happy Hour is amazing, with $3.00 beers, $4.00 glasses of wine, and $5.00 martinis. Since, I am a major beer drinker, I go there for the $3.00 pints of beer and enjoy myself each time. The last time that I went, I met a really cool male bartender, it was during the week. Yesterday (Saturday) I went for their happy hour with two other friends who have never been, and was waited on by two rather lovely female bartenders. One was nicer than the other, but overall the customer service was pretty good. I love the hometown feel and the co-owner Michael came out and welcomed me and my friends to his restaurant. He and I had some great conversations about travel, beer, food, etc. That conversation added even more to the already homey/pleasant environment. So, yesterday I had my truffle fries (of course), the chicken tamale, and a piece of the mushroom flat bread, which were all very cheap (happy hour prices). I am in love with this place. If you are looking for an happy hour which is Mon-Fri with various delish beers on tap, good wine, and strong martinis, and truffle fries to die for, then The Black Horse Tavern is the place to be!!!
(5)Mike T.
We went to this restaurant on Saturday the 12th. The WORST experience that I have EVER had. Here is why: -They were running 30 minutes late for our reservation. -Bar was out of MANY beers - Including staples such as Coors Light, Miller Lite and Guiness. -People at the bar told us "good luck trying to order a drink". -When we finally sat at our table, we were then given two different menus. -The Server came and was very dejected when he had to tell us that they were out of Filet, Samon, Flank Steak as well as some other entrees. -That waiter was pleased that we asked to speak with the manager because "they are on the front lines all night". -At that we decided to leave. -We asked for the manager - who was snarky, CURSED and gave us a false name. -DO NOT GO TO THIS RESTAURANT! We thought that they had potential but simply do not care!
(1)David S.
We absolutely love this place! It has a great tavern vibe to it, has a great happy hour, and when the owner is there, he shakes every customer's hand and thanks them for coming. The food is quite good, granted we have only eaten happy hour food, and very reasonable in price (again, happy hour prices). He also does a ten or so question trivia in the evening and if you get a question right, you get a free drink. Great vibe, good people, good food, and good booze...what more can you ask for?
(5)Joe L.
Although the menu doesn't have many offerings, everything on it is delicious that I have tried so far. The flatbreads are good, but not as good as the pizzas used to be. Go with a burger and some truffle fries and you won't be disappointed. As far as staff go, the bartenders are all very nice. The owner is usually strolling around making sure everyone is taken care of. I have never been seated at a table, so I am not sure how the wait staff is.
(4)Jooj S.
This bar/restaurant has terrible service. Our server at the bar was downright rude; I believe her name was Christina. Bumping into us, dirty looks and stares, clearing drinks, and ignoring us....pretty much the opposite of what a server/bartender should be. Christina needs to find another job because she is scaring away the customers.
(1)M R.
I made a reservation in mid-January for dinner for 4 and was very excited to try Black Horse. The menu looked promising, however, I will never know. When we arrived at Black Horse, we stood in the entry for about 5 minutes before being acknowledged. Then we were told to move to the bar area. When I mentioned to the host that we had a reservation he replied with 'That's nice, darlin', but some people are as considerate [to the fact] that you have a reservation and its going to be awhile.' First of all, don't call me 'darlin'' and use such a snide tone. Secondly, Black Horse had my phone number. Why didn't they call to tell me that there was a delay? We left and had an amazing dinner at Duck Sauce.
(1)Lauren D.
I know we're only in April, but I can tell you that my dinner here was the best I've had all year. I can't tell you how many times I've walked away from restaurants wondering how chefs could serve some of the meals that have arrived at my table. Not here. Chef Foga makes his meal with one key ingredient: love. My husband had previously posted to Yelp that he would like more vegetarian meals - Chef actually replied to his post and requested that we ask for him so that he could make a special dinner. Last night we were out with our 3 month old, which I know can spell disaster for many restaurateurs - we were so warmly welcomed by the owner, staff and other patrons that it immediately made us feel good just being in the restaurant. Gaelle, the host, went out of her way to find a baby-friendly table. On our rare night out, we were of course interested in libations right away. BHT has a healthy selection of craft and mega-brewery beers (not to mention martinis and wine). The Franzsikaner was extremely fresh and the Naked Brewing Co's Pomegranate Hefe so refreshing. Dan, our friendly and genuinely kind waiter, obliged us with the complete list from memory (although a written menu might be helpful too) - so many great options. For our appetizer, we had the mushroom flatbread. I generally like this appetizer when I've had it elsewhere, but this one sets the standard for all others going forward - nice meaty mushrooms on top of a mild but tasty cheese - on the perfectly crisp yet soft flatbread. No pre-fabricated appetizer feeling here - seriously freshly made and would be perfect for just a night of drinks and appetizers. Chef did not disappoint on our entrees. Sight unseen, I agreed to try whatever he made. I can't even generalize my meal as a stir-fry, because that wouldn't do it justice. The meal had carrots, asparagus, tomatoes, red cabbage, tofu and penne all perfectly chopped and topped with a soy marinade. It's one of those meals that you feel great after you eat it because it's not only tasty but healthy as well. If I hit Mega Millions, I will be hiring Robert Foga as my personal chef. After dinner, Chef even asked me to call a day or so ahead and he would get whatever ingredients were needed for another special vegetarian meal! My husband had the Scottish salmon and crab cake dinner. I can tell that this is one of the menu's signature dishes. At $22, it's a bargain - the nice-sized portions of fish look extremely fresh -- by the way, the crab cake is all crab. I won't repeat my husband's previous post, but it was yet again a terrific meal. If you're looking for an extra special night out, strongly consider Black Horse Tavern. You'll have a fabulous meal made with love in a very warm setting.
(5)Jessica F.
The food was very mediocre and very over priced service was bad. Sorry but would not recommend it.
(2)Theresa H.
Had a Groupon for one appetizer or flatbread and two entrees, so had to try this place. I had been there once before just for drinks during happy hour, but we didn't eat any food. Happy hour drink prices are good, but both times I was there, they were out of a lot of the craft beers on tap. At dinner on a Tuesday early evening, the waitresses excuse for that was that they get their kegs on Tuesdays. Well, it was 6:30 p.m. When were you going to tap them? AND, the time I went for happy hour, it was a Saturday! So what was the reason then? So dinner on Tuesday didn't start off so well. Made a reservation on-line, but upon arrival there was no one at the hostess stand - it just said seat yourself. We wanted to eat upstairs, but no one was there. We came back downstairs and there was only one tiny table available (the others had "reserved" signs on them - was one of them supposed to be mine?! no way of knowing since no one was there to tell us!). Finally, someone saw us standing there and I asked if we could sit upstairs. He said "upstairs is closed." So, since it was just the two of us we chose the tiny table (it is a very small area and very noisy with the bar in there). It took quite a while for a waitress to come over and take our drink order. Then it took even longer to get the drinks because she was also bartending! Had I caught on to that sooner, I would have gone up to the bar to get them myself. Food was just so-so. The flatbread was decent, but pretty small. It definitely would not have been worth the $11 had I been paying full price. My husband liked the fisherman's trio entree (I didn't try it). I had the rib-eye and it was only so-so. It was cooked properly, but it wasn't very flavorful other than way too much salt on the meat and side dishes. Again, not horrible - but definitely neither would have been worth the full menu price. Alas, it then took our waitress another looooong time to bring our second drink and another looooooooong time to bring our check. The place was crowded - so why do they have a waitress doing double duty as bartender?? Anyway, we ended up taking our check up to the bar to pay so we didn't have to wait any longer. Bottom line - I would only ever go here again for drinks at happy hour, and possibly the trio of appetizers that everyone seemed to be getting, which looked decent though I don't know what the price was. Lousy service and mediocre food.
(2)Milo Y.
Cool ambiance. Owner cool with the handshakes, way over priced for the crab cake and the fish and chips for what you would expect. Quality excellent, but not one of a kind to support the price of the food.
(3)Jerry W.
The highlight was the owner coming out to greet us. We arrived without a reservation on a Saturday night. The hostess seemed aggravated that we just walked in. She sat is by the kitchen door in the bar area. We asked the server to move us and he did. The Asian lettuce wrap was tasty, but super modest. Not worth the $9 price. In general, we felt a little underwhelmed. The owner was nice, but I would not go again. Sorry.
(2)janis k.
This restaurant has been in business for three years and we finally decided to try it . We were greeted by the friendly owner and immediately felt like we were off to a good start. Unfortunately it went downhill after that. It took 20 minutes to be seated even though there were three empty tables. Service was perfunctory - no one came a single time to ask if we needed anything. We finally had to track down our server to get the check. The food came out tepid but because it took an hour and we were starved we were afraid to send it back. The portions were microscopic and we felt hungry when we left. All in all we were very disappointed.
(2)Wise C.
Pretty average. Visited with a co-worker to grab dinner, each ordered steak which was way over cooked. Salads were nothing special. Over priced for what you get.
(3)Jim G.
Amazing food! My family stopped by at around 5:15 on a Thursday night. We ordered the truffle fries and they were the most amazing fries that we ever had! They tasted like sour cream and onion with a touch of garlic with shredded cheese on top. I will be dreaming about them until next time. We also ordered the Fisherman's trio. Everything was delicious....scallops, crabcake and mahi mahi on mashed potatoes drizzled with a lemon butter sauce. The only reason I am giving it a four star is because the dinner portion was very small for $24 and did not come with salad or bread. We also had the pig wings and if you like hot buffalo sauce and ginger together, then this is for you. It was a perfect explosion of both in your mouth. I loved it, family did not. The drinks were great as well. I ordered a chocolate martini which was only $6 for happy hour. Overall, the food was great, the atmosphere was extremely cozy and charming inside. It was dim but I loved that! Will return :))
(4)Charlie S.
The Black Horse is a great place to come for Happy Hour and to hang out with the after-work "professional" crowd. The bars are classy and the food is great. The menu is always changing and they have some really interesting plates. As far as Newtown goes, this place has some of the best music. Sometimes they bring in jazz bands and other nights they bring in somebody with an acoustic guitar. Either way, it's a great atmosphere that's always full of locals and visitors alike. It has a one-of-kind ambience that shouldn't be missed if you are in the area.
(5)Derek Z.
Great service. Cool atmosphere. Good food. I like tapped style. Get the fries.
(4)Susan V.
I agree with Dave T. The happy hour here is one of the best I've found in the Newtown area and I could eat the truffle fries for breakfast, lunch or dinner. They have something like 20 beers on tap, which is enough for me. Issacs has more beer options but I've never had a good meal there. If you haven't been to The Black Horse Tavern in the last month or so, I suggest you try the "new" happy hour. It runs from Mon-Sat from 5-7 pm. I really like the revolutionary vibe, too.
(4)Lolly G.
I moved to New Town about 4 months ago and this was the first bar I went to. I've been hooked since. The happy hour is an awesome deal with great drink specials. If you are a beer drinker you will find some really awesome beers on tap. The food is what makes Black Horse stand out from other bars in the area. It's delicious, fresh, and unique dishes. As a vegetarian, I find it difficult to find places to eat but not here. A favorite of mine is the tofu tacos (that you don't have to be a vegetarian to love) as well as the amazing flat breads. I've tried a few things off of their new menu and they've all been delicious. I am here at least once a week and have told many people to try to it out. Issacs is a competitor across the way but only because of their beer selection. The environment doesn't come close and their food is not good. The only complaint I would have is that one of the bartenders was rude to my group once, but we now avoid her.
(5)Henry C S.
I've been here for many a happy hour and I do agree that it's not bad for drinks. However, the service is spotty unless you're sitting at the bar. They say they feature free apps during HH but it consisted of a small bowl of guac and salsa stuck on a barrel in a corner of the front bar with an ever empty plate of what looked like pita bread. I ordered the beet salad for $8 and it was a total waste. It was about 10 small bites of salad...worth half the price. If nothing else sit around and listen to the beautiful people talk about why they're beautiful.
(2)emily c.
I ate here once. I will maybe eat here again. I went for food and not to hang out at a bar, so my review of this place is as an eatery (though I did wash my meal down with an Allagash White which they have on tap alongside some other choice quaffs). I ordered the beet salad and the fish tacos. I wish I had ordered 2 of each- not because they were so good, because they were so small. My server gave me prior warning by suggesting I order 3 dishes, but I was still surprised to see such small plates of food. Fortunately, I'm not fond of stuffing my face silly when I dine, though I can imagine some people may get the feeling they are being ripped off here. I kinda think, when I'm not eating in NYC, a $9 beet salad ought to fulfill a small meal requirement, as should $9 fish tacos. Where taste is concerned, I thought the beet salad was rather lovely- fresh greens and tender beets. My tacos left me wanting the fish more seasoned (and less fishy tasting) and more lime flavor in the lime cream, or served with a wedge of lime for squeezing, and at least a spoonful of seasoned rice. I thought the meal arrived a tad late, but then I feel like I'm being too picky. Besides, the servers were attentive to clearing empty plates, and filling empty glasses. The decor is historic with a modern facelift, pleasantly done, with adequately dimmed lighting. I would come here to to hang out for the bar, and maybe to try the food again.
(2)Corinna G.
We were in Newtown unexpectedly, unfamiliar with the restaurants of the town. We happened upon The Black Horse Tavern and were unexpectedly surprised at the wonderful food and service. The owner went to each table to welcome everyone. Our waiter was excellent from beginning to end. We both got specials. One got the "Three Way Ribs" which were melt in your mouth ribs prepared three totally different ways. One of us got a seafood pot with a potato soup base. Appetizers were fabulous, perfect portion size, crazy unique area beers as well as the usual. The building is old and needs some improvements but it has that old tavern charm a new building will never have. Very friendly, helpful staff. We'll definitely go back.
(5)Will C.
The fries are amazing and wild mushroom flatbread is awesome! Happy hour is the way to go. Perfect for a snack and drink.
(4)Melissa M.
We were here for their hurricane party in August which was the first time since the menu change. I have to say I thoroughly enjoyed the food. There were a couple choices I think we didn't care for but nothing that deserves a negative review. The service was great and the drinks were spot on as well. We were surprised at the crowd that arrived around nine when the dj started. We couldn't help but get up and join them. It was a great evening! We look forward to going back very soon.
(4)April G.
We went tonight for the Monday night locals menu. The eggplant parm and tilapia lemoncello were so "New York" good that we asked to give our compliments to the chef. Should have known..the chef is the former owner and chef of Il Sol Toscano - Joe came out to say hello. Glad to see they've handed the reins to someone so talented as him. And what a great priced menu. Will go every Monday night for such great fare!
(5)Ashley S.
I came here recently on a Thursday evening for dinner and a drink. This place was pretty low key, calm and relaxing. They were playing some French music at the time which was a nice and unexpected change. The beer menu wasn't extremely impressive but they had a few good options. My brother and I both ordered the standard burger and fries. Seasoning on the burger was good and the cheese and prosciutto topping was a nice touch. I loved the taste of the focaccia they served it on - my only complaint is that they toasted it a little too much and it was kind of hard to bite into. Fries appeared to be fresh cut and were tasty - kind of small in portion size, but that's probably a good thing! Overall a nice little place to grab a quick bite and a beer.
(3)Lauren L.
Will not be returning. The service was awful, we stood in the vestibule for about ten minutes before even being acknowledge by anyone despite being passes by at least four waiters/waitresses. We ordered drinks as soon as we say down and they never came. Finally they showed up AFTET our food was halfway gone. The food was just as disappointing as the service. Our burgers were served on stale rolls with soggy onion rings. When our bill came we saw that we were charged double for our drinks when they should have been free considering how late they arrived during our meal. Then when we notified the waiter we were questioned as if we were lying in order to get one over on them. The entire experience was completely horrible and I cannot believe that this place is still in business considering the area, I would think that people would have caught on by now.
(2)Jenn B.
So after raving about your food to our family we all ordered over $100 in JUST burgers and fries for dinner one weekday evening --your burgers were dry shiveled versions of the buttery soft ones we previously enjoyed, the truffle fries were limp water logged barely covered in what you call aioli (not at all worth $11)..and that left 4 people still hungry and pissed at me for ever having vouched for you:(
(1)Ashley R.
I recently went to this restaurant the food is excellent. The martinis are incredible a bit expensive but they have great happy hour!! The have a piano bar and it is really fun on the weekend nights they have DJs. They also have cute outside seating! This is a great place to go
(5)Gerald S.
As the nearest watering hole to my Newtown office, Black Horse is a great place for an after work happy hour stop. I just walk over for an hour, have a beer, martini or margarita and a nibble of pretty good bar food specials, and make my way home. It is also perfect for pre/post meeting meetings to prep/rehash the issue of the moment. I usually find my buds upstairs in a cluster, but we have been known to find a corner downstairs to stand around in as we strategize or just blow off steam. The alcohol is what swings this dark horse, but the kitchen does turn out some quality dishes. The wings, dumplings, Mexi/Texi tapas, and even the burgers are done well, though their concepts may be different than you have experienced elsewhere. Too, you gotta like the overall atmosphere of the old place. The renovations have not detracted from the historical marker that this tavern has been over many many years. After one drink it is easy to imagine the Continental Army marching down State Street on its way to Washington Crossing. After two drinks you realize that there are Tory sympathizers in the bar. After three, the Sons of Liberty are ready to throw them out into the street. I have not actually sat down for a full dinner here. No particular reason other than the circumstances of the day. The prices are higher than my other favorite watering hole, The Clubhouse, but the differential can be explained by the ambiance and the targeted customers. Depending on my mood, BHT can be exactly right, particularly if planning the next skirmish in the War of Independence.
(4)Jamie M.
I really wanted to like this place. I wanted it to be our new place when we moved into the area. I left my first dinner here thinking that it was both pretty terrible and terribly expensive. They are basically charging fine dining prices for highly mediocre food. That really pisses me off. I gave them two stars because I did like the truffle fries, but they were also insanely overpriced. We had a reservation and it was fairly early on a Friday night. They didn't have a decent table available as everything seemed to be reserved. Funny, I thought we had also reserved, but maybe I don't understand what reservation means. I think they were also out of a couple of the entrees that my table of four tried to order. The food was just meh, but with the outrageous prices for what it was, it made it taste even worse. I don't plan to return. Some places don't deserve a second chance. I honestly can't understand all the glowing reviews, but I have observed some grade inflation in the greater Newtown area.
(2)Phil Y.
We went for a late weeknight dinner/snack. We were the only people at the bar for the first 30 minutes and only one other person came in while we were there, so I guess it's only crowded on weekends and during happy hour. Ordered the truffle fries which everyone recommended. Didn't taste a ton of truffle oil but the fries themselves were well prepared, crispy and flavorful. The cheese and aioli were a nice touch. However, $11 for a medium sized portion is way overpriced in my opinion. If I did it over again, I'd just try to order a side of plain fries. Sliders were decent sized and I'd say pretty standard for bar food. Nice selection of beers on tap. May go back during happy hour or trivia night.
(3)Rachel B.
My husband and I went here on St. Paddy's day to hear a local band playing. There wasn't any space downstairs so we went upstairs to sit at a table. It took at least 15 minutes to get a beer menu and another 10 minutes for the waitress to take our food & drink order. After an additional hour ( 1 1/2 hours total since sitting) we still hadn't received any food. We only ordered simple bar food (chicken tenders, fries, and calamari). We end up leaving money for our beers on the table and walking out. A few other tables around us had cancelled their food order because of the insane wait time.
(1)Mike M.
So we are in on a Wednesday night and trying this place for the first time. My first impression. Stay away. Service is abysmal. Waitstaff is rude, slow not very attentive. 2 guys just did not care. We will never go back. Food was fair. How can you screw up a Burger and salad. What a mess. 1 star
(1)Jeff M.
A sad day. They have definately fallen down. Tonight only 6-7 beers on tap, about 10-12 out and covered with Crown Royal bags. "Because of the holidays." Not busy like it used to be. Then some of the beers are not on happy hour. Crazy. We won't be back. There are other craft bar bars locally.
(1)Kendall B.
Happy Hour--a time, usually between the hours of 6-8, when drinks are offered at reduced prices, encouraging co-workers to mingle outside of the office setting. This is what Happy Hour used to be-back in the 1990s when people had jobs and could afford to keeping purchasing cocktails long after the drink specials had ended. But with the unemployment rate ticking ever higher, the definition of Happy Hour is changing: it is no longer only a place for the over-worked to release steam, it is also a valuable networking tool for the unemployed to try to find work. And bar/restaurant owners are recognizing this paradigm shift caused by the economic recession, offering better drink prices, extending discounts to include menu items, and even beginning their Happy Hours earlier in the day (before the 9-5er's are released from their cubicles). As an unemployed college graduate (or stay-at-home-daughter, as I prefer to say), I recognize the valuable opportunity that Happy Hours provide for networking (and budgeting) and I try to make it out to one each week. Of course, I also need to vent my frustrations of failed interviews and wasted cover letters! Right now my favorite Happy Hour hands-down is The Black Horse Tavern in Newtown. They do it all right: Starts at 5 pm, ends at 7 pm (Mon-Sat) $3 drafts, $4 wines, and $6 martinis 1/2 price menu items Trivia on Friday nights (for free drink prizes-I won one last week!) Free bar food available during Happy Hour (usually their delicious flatbreads!) In my opinion, it's the best deal in town and like all good things, it draws a consistent crowd. Aka: If you get there after 5 pm expect to sip your delicious martini while standing! They have an extensive speciality martini list, but I recommend the Grapefruit Bubbling Cosmo with Ruby Red Vodka, Cointreau, Lime Juice, Cranberry Juice, all topped off with a splash of Champagne. It has a perfect blend of citrus without tasting artificial. As far as bar food goes, YOU MUST GET THE TRUFFLE FRIES!!! They come topped with Parmesan Cheese and Belgian Aioli and they are to die for! I also really like the flatbreads at this place. The Margarita is very simple but delicious made with fresh mozzarella, fresh basil, oregano, olive oil, and spicy marinara sauce. It's tasty finger food that is easy to share, and I've got to admit that it is better than some of the pizza places I've tried in these neck of the woods. Last but not least, I also tried the Caesar Salad with crisp hearts of romaine and a garlicky brioche crostini, dressed to perfection with a Caesar drizzle. It was a great portion for like $4, which is definitely recession-approved pricing!
(5)John G.
It was OK. That's all I can really say. The atmosphere is cozy and nice, but the food isn't the best, especially for the prices. Their truffle fries are good, but it seems like the portions have decreased over the past couple of years. Unless I get a Groupon, I won't be coming back to this place. Too many other nice restaurants around at better prices. Sorry, I wish I could give it a 'thumbs up'...but I just can't.
(2)Walter C.
Dropped by there again and brought the kids. As usual a fantastic meal for all! Flat breads were terrific! My son loved his special made surf and turf. Thanks Robert! And my daughter loved her seafood trio. This place never let's me down.
(4)Pablo G.
I've been to this place a few times and live in Newtown. It has never been my scene but I thought I should yelp a review. The bartender assumed I had a few drinks in me and decided to substitute a single for a ten when returning my change. I will not be returning.
(1)Veronica K.
I'll preface this by saying I'm only reviewing the bar here; I've never ate any of their food. That being said I really do love this place! Sometimes I'll be in Newtown, usually catching dinner or just walking around, and this is a great little place to stumble into. The interior is dimly lit, but they often have candles on tables which gives it a slightly romantic feel. Their draft list is pretty decent, they have some macros, a few high profile crafts like Sam Adams, and also a bunch of rotating crafts. Every time I go I get to try some interesting brews. Believe me when I say this place is a great last stop for a night out. Just watch out for some of the regulars, a few of them have been a little too boisterous.
(4)Paul L.
Haven't been back in a few months. My wife's wine was definitely old as it tasted like vinegar. The menu used to be much bigger and really delicious. Really disappointed in the menu and quality. Just didn't care to go back. I guess the bar scene would be ok if you want a small local area on a weekend night.
(1)Flavia C.
Leaning towards a 4 1/2 star! I really enjoyed this place. Historic, beautiful intimate with plenty of options for your night. Downstairs is fun happy hour atmosphere, with DJ's and specials. Upstairs there is a hip piano bar and the music is great. I opted for the formal dining room where I could hear the music in the background but feel as if I had been transported back over 100 years when the place was built. The drinks are great and the food is fantastic. The duck dish anyway. The waiter who was fun, knowledgeable and patient when we closed the place down & didn't rush us at all --recommended the duck dish rather forcefully as in you can't leave here without trying it:) Boy am I glad he did. It melted in your mouth, with gnocchi and spinach. I'm writing this review in large part because I really wanted to go back but couldn't recall the name so now I have it saved:) Def. worth checking out for a nice date, happy hour downstairs,. a night out with the girls in the piano bar you name it!
(4)Phyllis F.
Not good. Waited an hour for our appetizer and meal. The waitress was also the barmaid, as was the waiter. No bread served or offered. Bacon wrapped shrimp with jalapeño grits consisted of limp bacon and flavorless grits. Dinner was Scallops with crab risotto and peas ($27) The waitress asked what "side" I wanted, which confused me since the meal seemed complete without a side. So I wound up with 3 scallops (not seared) cut in half to give the appearance of more, cold mashed potatoes, no crab risotto, and peas. After the disappointing meal I didn't finish, I was not offered coffee or dessert and again had to flag the waiter down to pay out disappointing $75 bill (martinis $13 ea) after $10 comp. I would not recommend eating here I have had good meals here before and am not sure what changed, but tonight's meal was exceedingly disappointing. A complete waste of money.
(1)Lauren T.
Horrible horrible service. We walked in and the place was empty. Sat down at the bar which was occupied only by employees. As soon as we sat down every employee disappeared. So we waited about five minutes for someone to finally come back and take our drink order. Once that happened we were once again ignored. I actually had the audacity to ask the bartender a question. The MANAGER of the bar looked at me as if I was the rudest person and then proceeded to ignore me all together. All in all, the place sucked. I've never been treated that way before. Period. Let alone treated that way at an establishment that I'm PAYING to be in. I'll never go back.
(1)Jeff B.
Great ambience, two small bars. It is a little local gem in Newtown. Great place for a drink or two. If you like the tapas style then you will enjoy the food. We usually get filet mignon.
(3)Mathew M.
Not sure why this place is called tapas. Me and my wife went to have some tapas but there was no tapas menu. Maybe something changed? We basically had bar food - wings and truffle fries. It was okay. Pretty loud place as they have live music both upstairs and downstairs. Might be a good place to go for drinks but not for tapas as I was expecting.
(3)C M.
I am from the Lower Bucks County area, and though this would be a great place to bring my fiancee and my parents and other family together for dinner (we live out of town now) to show her Newtown, and what I remembered to be a really cool colonial tavern and restaurant. Unfortunately the place is under new management since the last time I had been there and the whole experience was just bizarre. I called the restaurant a few days in advance to make reservations, since we would be a party of 8, and asked if they would be having the live jazz quartet during the time we would be there for dinner, and I was told absolutely, yes. During our dinner, no jazz to be found, however one of the bus boys or waiters was playing their hard rock/heavy metal playlist while we were eating (this is supposed to be a nice place!). Then comes the food, I had the lobster bisque, which tasted like the jalapeño cheese whiz, that you dip your pretzel into. In fact, all of the soups and appetizers were nuclear hot with pepper or hot sauce, and no one could eat them. My sister also had chicken parm that was practically crusted in red pepper - it literally burnt the skin off her mouth. The table service was also terrible, I had to ask for bread, and instead of some fresh bread or hot rolls (which you might expect at a place where the average price per head is $60+), we got some stale sliced bread, that looked like it came from the leftover bin at the grocery store. The waiter was also very strange, often standing by the table and interjecting himself into our conversations, while forgetting to bring drinks and other things we asked him for. Totally bizarre. Finally "one of the owners" comes up to our table, still cold from the outside, and jacket on, comes up and shakes my hand (and all other 8 people at the table) while we're eating, explains he is the manager, and goes on for almost 10 minutes in an awkward one way conversation. I'm all about owners making connections with their guests, thats how you make a new comer a regular, but he didn't even tell us his name, or ask us how the food was. He was also dressed like he had just been working on a utility pole. I kind of wanted to wash my hands. Oh and here's the kicker - they didn't have desert. We asked if they usually do and they said yes, but this particular high traffic Saturday night they just didn't. I mean they could have picked up an ice cream cake at the grocery store when they got that old bread! Jeez. Finally, as we're about to leave the jazz group starts playing. The weird thing was no one turned off the hard rock music and the two were competing with each other as the employees of the restaurant walked around not seeming to notice two types of music were going full force at the same time. No hard feelings, just extremely strange.
(1)Christa B.
We love the atmosphere; very intimate setting as well as cozy. Beer selection is nice; something for the craft beer people as well as the everyday beers. Haven't had the food here but the service from the bar is excellent. Great place for people to go.
(4)Priya M.
Tapas who? Nothing on the menu screamed tapas..bar food mostly..truffle fries were good and mayo filled..wings seemed old/frozen...slim picking on drink menu..but wine was surprisingly good..noisy and not really a getting out experience but had good prompt service
(3)Andrew W.
I was in Newton on a random Saturday night, a friend and I were going to try out a golf simulator nearby and we figured we could find a place on the State Street strip to grab a quick bite to eat. Never having been to Newton, I was pleasantly surprised by the community, its a really interesting area with some very, very old buildings and Victorian houses. Anyway, we saw the Black Horse Tavern when driving around and figured we'd pop in for food. Neither of us realized it was a restaurant, not a bar/tavern, so we were thrown off a bit when they asked if we had reservations. They fit us, but were kind of rude about it "We have tables available NOW, but you'll have to be out by 8:00." That theme continued with the small note card on our table that said soothing to the effect of how there are reservations after you, so be mindful of your time. Have they had issues with this? Are people not aware that you might have people with reservations after you in a public restaurant? It was bizarre. The food we had was good. Since we were trying to be quick we had burgers - I went with the Tavern Burger (very good cheese and sauteed onions) and my buddy had the regular burger. Both were seasoned and cooked well... and allowed us to depart without upsetting the people who had reservations next to us. Thank god. It was a nice place and most of the meals that came out of the kitchen seemed to look appetizing, but the vibe I got from the whole "eat and leave" mentality kind of spoiled it.
(3)A R.
Have been here before and liked it... but not anymore. Poor service, sour wine, mediocre food - and we had to wait an hour to get our dinner. This restaurant is sinking.... fast! Too bad. They lost 2 more customers last night.
(1)Amy H.
Went here with a friend a couple months ago, and I came to Yelp looking for the name of this place because I wanted to potentially go back. That's the first sign this place made a favorable mark in my mind. The Black Horse Tavern delivered solid food, and really nice "date" atmosphere (at least on a week night - can't speak to the noise on the weekend, haven't seen it). The truffle fries were phenomenal, and the drinks were good, strong, but balanced. It's a great little "unknown" spot for good conversation in an intimate setting. Happy to patronize them again.
(4)Christina L.
Being new to the area, I am always on a mission to find great local spots, and this fits the bill. I read other Yelp review (which is how I often determine where to go) and I have to agree that the food is great, and the venue is awesome. The truffle fries are fantastic, but I was surprised they came in one of those cheap wooden salad bowls... how about a fries stand? Something to up the presentation? My penne a la vodka was great too, though a little expensive, in my opinion, for what you get. Being from NY, I know high prices, and it seems that the food here is a little too high priced for what you get. I do love the atmosphere and how there are separate rooms for dining, and bars... upstairs is an awesome piano bar lounge, and downstairs are two more bars. It almost feels like you're in a vintage stone home- it's great. Lastly, and this has nothing to do with food, is the upstairs dining room is DRAFTY and barren. I ate dinner with my coat on. I love the wooden slats in the ceiling but you can hardly see them contrast against the dark red walls. I do wonder also why there is no artwork or lighting somewhere to add more to the ambiance? There's a gorgeous stone fireplace but it is blocked by a 4-top table. I think a much better job could be done with the space upstairs (for dining). I definitely would recommend this place and I definitely will be back
(4)Debby H.
What a delicious experience! Two of us used a Groupon & so glad we found this restaurant. It was a busy Saturday night & we waited a few minutes for our upstairs table to be ready. We had a terrific server...so pleasant & efficient! We shared a delicious seafood flatbread. My friend had the wild salmon & crab cake; I had the 10 oz rib eye that came with your choice of vegetables and sauces. I chose truffle butter as my sauce & roasted potatoes and spinach. The dish was brought with mashed potatoes, but it didn't matter since they were delicious, the steak perfection at medium rare & despite being 19 degrees outside, the food was served hot! We loved that the owner came around to shake our hand, bring us water refills and chat with us when we stopped him to compliment him on the experience. No doubt I'll be back, and my friend said the same!
(4)Donna K.
Seated at 8:30. Cesar's salads not served til 9:15. Did not see waiter until then. Steak was served raw. Had to send back and it came back mid rare when order med well. Potatoes were disgusting left the worst after taste. Veggies were definitely frozen. Out of multiple dishes on the menu. Restaurant is filthy. Will not come back. Ever.
(1)Samantha P.
I'm struggling with the star rating, but I think the Black Horse Tavern deserves three stars. My boyfriend and I went here for dinner on a Friday night. Here's what I liked about the place: Location & atmosphere: at 6:30 on a Friday, this place had a pretty good amount of people, which is always nice. They sat us at a very cute table against the stone brick wall, which felt a little secluded and I liked that. It's like we were tucked away. It looks like they have two bars which is pretty cool. Bar menu and happy hour: the drinks and the fries were excellent. I will go back just for that. And let me tell you, white creamy mayo stuff freaks me out, but I was able to suck up and deal because the truffle fries were that good. And my french martini was excellent. Where the Tavern went awry: In addition to the fries, we ordered mahi mahi tacos and I could smell them the second they came to the table. And it was not a good smell. I took a bite and it tasted fine, but the smell was overwhelmingly bad. I'm honestly surprised it got past the cook and the waiters. So, we just passed on that and waited for our entrees. My entree was very good - I ordered the duck with mushrooms and gnocchi. This gnocchi wasn't typical, it was fried and wasn't very potatoey but I'm not complaining - it was delicious. My boyfriends entree on the other hand was pretty bizarre. When he ordered the short ribs he was given the choice of 5 different "sauces", the last one being a mushroom sauce. But when he got his entree there was no sauce, just some meat and mushrooms on the side. It was dry! But here is the most bizarre part... these were not short ribs. I have cooked short ribs 50+ times in my life. This was more like slices of pot roast. Albeit, the meat was tender and well-seasoned, but it really could have used some kind of gravy. So take from my review what you will. The place has potential but maybe you just have to order the right thing. I would stick with the drinks, the bar food and stay away from the seafood...
(3)Gnomer B.
Like many others who wrote a glowing review of Black Horse's happy hour, I too am a fan. I came in last Friday night for the first time and met two friends at the bar. This place is QUAINT AS HELL. If you like quaint taverns, with a historic feel, you will get that here. The decor is lovely; the back wall of the bar is stone. STONE, YOU HEAR ME? Being all colonial and shit. Love me some stone walls. Anyway, the happy hour prices are fantastic for Newtown. $3 pints? Yes, please, I will have all the beers. My friends ordered some truffle fries, which were also discounted for happy hour, and I tasted them and immediately got a raging food boner. The two bartender dudes on staff were attentive and friendly, and refilled our beers promptly despite how packed it was getting in there. The crowd was of the older sort, but very upbeat and friendly people. Like hanging out with your parents cool friends, if your parents have cool friends. Mine don't. As we were leaving the owner was shaking everyone's hands and thanking them for coming. I didn't realize he had tried to shake mine until after I had breezed on by, snubbing the poor guy. SORRY MANG. I'll do better next time, and will certainly frequent your establishment again.
(4)Neil G.
My wife and I came here for dinner on a Friday night. It's located in a town called Newtown PA, which I am not very familiar with but seems very nice. Upon walking in, we realized we must have walked through the wrong entrance. We walked through the bar and found the hostess at the entrance we should have come in on. At first we were kind of worried that the only formal seating was in the bar area because 1) There weren't that many tables, and 2) The bar was very crowded, and kind of loud. Not a bad thing, and what you would expect from a bar on a Friday night, just not the atmosphere we were looking for on our date night out. After finding the hostess, we were pleasantly surprised that they have a whole other floor for formal dining. Very different atmosphere from downstairs, exactly what we were looking for. Nice, quiet, ambiance, etc... We were given the option to sit by the window which was nice, and shortly after we were greeted by our fantastic waitress Guyel (I know I mispelled that, sorry Guyel). She took our drink order and notified us that we still have 20 minutes for Happy Hour pricing. If you've read any of my reviews, you know I'm a big beer guy. $3 for anything on draft, and that included craft beers. This is the best deal I've seen in a long time. I ended up ordering 2 dogfish head 60 minute ipas. Everything was going great until we found out they removed the only vegetarian entree on the menu which my wife, being vegetarian, was planning on ordering. We obviously have to be very mindful of where we are eating because of her dietary constraint and always look up menus online before we chose a place to eat at. She ended up having to order a few vegetarian appetizers, the hummus plate and vege dumplings. The hummus was just ok, not much flavor. The dumplings on the other hand were probably the best vege dumplings I've ever eaten. I think she regrets not ordering two of them. My dinner on the other hand was fantastic. I ordered the Scottish Salmon and Crab Cake Entree and I was very happy with my decision. The Salmon sat on a bead of mashed potatoes, broccoli rabe and a crab cake with some type white sauce which really made the dish. Salmon was cooked to perfection, portion was just right. It was a $22 dish, but I say well worth the money. I can honestly say it was one of the best dinners I've eaten in a while. Overall, I think the service was great, food was amazing, I just hope they add one or more vegetarian entrees to the menu. That would definitely keep us coming back.
(4)Joan M.
Took my husband parents there. We had a groupon which was a very good deal. Upon arriving we had eight o'clock reservation we were seated immediatly taken to our table where we we're greeted by the owner which was a very nice touch. The server was very nice food totally amazing. After dinner we went into the piano room for a after dinner drink which was really nice too. Overall excellent experience. We definitely will be back with or without a groupon.
(5)Aasima A.
We have been to downtown Newtown a few times before but that was for the best ice cream! this time, we were hungry and wanted actual food. We checked Yelp and sauntered into the Black Horse Tavern. The inside is really charming, with nice exposed brick walls, and wood staircase, etc. There weren't to many people at the bar but we chose to sit at a table. Ordered a few things and then the afterwork/ regular crowd started filling up the place. As I looked around though I couldn't help but notice THERE IS NO DIVERSITY. All the patrons there looked the same: same polo/ collared short and khacki shorts or jean and some type of sandal or sneaker. No one of color, no one from any other socio-economic group. It didn't make me uncomfortable, because I for one love trying new things and because the servers and bartender were great and didn't make me feel any type of way, but was weird in a Twilight Zone kind of way. The food was decent, just small portions. We had to get extra appetizers at the end of our dinner because most of us were still hungry. Over all was cool to finally get inside and see what the hype was, but i don't know if we'll go back unless out of nessesity. Decent place, but the small portions and high prices are not warranted. Maybe the crows is differrent later in the evening or on the weekend.
(2)Sarah S.
Formerly "The Grotto" ..... Great happy hour place and good for live music on the weekends too. I'm a regular here and love the atmosphere. However, I have not had a meal here in a while so I can't speak for the eats
(4)Gerrianne M.
I've been here twice so far, and both times with my "fellow mom friends", for a kid-free, husband-free night out. The first time, we stumbled into Black Horse Tavern because it was nearby and it had a live band. Someone had a 50th birthday party there that night, so it was very crowded. I wasn't sure if it was unique to that night, but the place definitely had an older crowd. The second time, we chose Black Horse Tavern because we had a Groupon and it turned out to be a great deal. The food, however, was not so great. Most of the items on the menu sounded delicious! You could order anything from pasta, to hamburgers, to eggrolls, to fajitas. I should have known this was strange to have such a wide variety of menu items in a bar/ tavern/ restaurant. I was torn between the vodka riggatoni and a hamburger. I was in the mood for a good burger, and didn't think I could go wrong in this place. Well, I was wrong. It wasn't great, and was regretting my choice, but my friend had ordered the vodka rigs and they had absolutely NO TASTE! I was so disappointed. The atmosphere is pretty nice though, the bar and open space for the band/ dancing is on the main level. Upstairs is the private piano bar area and the restaurant. It was perfect for the night we had planned, because we could sit upstairs for as long as we wanted to chat, without being disrupted by the band,etc. The only down side to that was, we were seated right next to the bathroom. There is only 1 restroom for each gender, and for some reason, both had lines all night long, or at least throughout our dinner. It was distracting because the line kept creeping into our table. After that, we ventured downstairs to check out the band, which was pretty good and played a variety of music. The crowd was diverse in ages, from folks in their 50's to 40's, and then us in our 30's, however it seemed that we were the youngest ones there. So overall, this play was just Ehhhh... in my opinion.
(2)John B.
My wife and daughter stopped in here after skiing and heading to King of Prussia to meet friends. We had totally forgotten it was Valentine's day, but it was late enough that the crowd was thinning out. We picked this place totally randomly and were glad we did. It was very pleasant surprise. They had to clear a few tables but we didn't wait long to be seated, The waitress was friendly and attentive (despite the couple next to us that wanted to talk her ear off) I started with their own lager and I have to say it was exceptional. Nothing fancy, not overly hoppy, just real good beer. My wife and I both had salads, her was the house special and mine was basically a Caesar salad but the just called it something else. Plates were cold and greens were crisp with just the right amount of dressing. (the only thing I would add is it would've been great to have some fresh ground pepper) Our entrées were all really good and were all part of the V-day menu. I had Chipotle glazed meatloaf with cheddar mashed potatoes. It was really one of the best meatloafs I had ever had. My wife had a filet and it was cooked spot on midrare. Nothing fancy here either, just a very nice steak. My daughter chose the butter poached lobster with gnocchi and thought it was outstanding as well and beautifully presented. I don't get to this area much since I live in Baltimore but if I do, I would surely go there again. Oh and no one seemed to mind that we were all in sweats and looking like bums with our hat hair so I guess casual would be how I would describe it.
(4)Sean K.
Terrific happy hour! Great beer and wine specials and friendly bartenders...the owner is there a lot and makes sure everyone is happy...a really good thing! The Dark Horse burger...the bride and I...who've had them all over the country...rate the house burger as number one...a bit expensive but worth every penny!
(5)Gerrianne M.
I've been here twice so far, and both times with my "fellow mom friends", for a kid-free, husband-free night out. The first time, we stumbled into Black Horse Tavern because it was nearby and it had a live band. Someone had a 50th birthday party there that night, so it was very crowded. I wasn't sure if it was unique to that night, but the place definitely had an older crowd. The second time, we chose Black Horse Tavern because we had a Groupon and it turned out to be a great deal. The food, however, was not so great. Most of the items on the menu sounded delicious! You could order anything from pasta, to hamburgers, to eggrolls, to fajitas. I should have known this was strange to have such a wide variety of menu items in a bar/ tavern/ restaurant. I was torn between the vodka riggatoni and a hamburger. I was in the mood for a good burger, and didn't think I could go wrong in this place. Well, I was wrong. It wasn't great, and was regretting my choice, but my friend had ordered the vodka rigs and they had absolutely NO TASTE! I was so disappointed. The atmosphere is pretty nice though, the bar and open space for the band/ dancing is on the main level. Upstairs is the private piano bar area and the restaurant. It was perfect for the night we had planned, because we could sit upstairs for as long as we wanted to chat, without being disrupted by the band,etc. The only down side to that was, we were seated right next to the bathroom. There is only 1 restroom for each gender, and for some reason, both had lines all night long, or at least throughout our dinner. It was distracting because the line kept creeping into our table. After that, we ventured downstairs to check out the band, which was pretty good and played a variety of music. The crowd was diverse in ages, from folks in their 50's to 40's, and then us in our 30's, however it seemed that we were the youngest ones there. So overall, this play was just Ehhhh... in my opinion.
(2)John B.
My wife and daughter stopped in here after skiing and heading to King of Prussia to meet friends. We had totally forgotten it was Valentine's day, but it was late enough that the crowd was thinning out. We picked this place totally randomly and were glad we did. It was very pleasant surprise. They had to clear a few tables but we didn't wait long to be seated, The waitress was friendly and attentive (despite the couple next to us that wanted to talk her ear off) I started with their own lager and I have to say it was exceptional. Nothing fancy, not overly hoppy, just real good beer. My wife and I both had salads, her was the house special and mine was basically a Caesar salad but the just called it something else. Plates were cold and greens were crisp with just the right amount of dressing. (the only thing I would add is it would've been great to have some fresh ground pepper) Our entrées were all really good and were all part of the V-day menu. I had Chipotle glazed meatloaf with cheddar mashed potatoes. It was really one of the best meatloafs I had ever had. My wife had a filet and it was cooked spot on midrare. Nothing fancy here either, just a very nice steak. My daughter chose the butter poached lobster with gnocchi and thought it was outstanding as well and beautifully presented. I don't get to this area much since I live in Baltimore but if I do, I would surely go there again. Oh and no one seemed to mind that we were all in sweats and looking like bums with our hat hair so I guess casual would be how I would describe it.
(4)April G.
We went tonight for the Monday night locals menu. The eggplant parm and tilapia lemoncello were so "New York" good that we asked to give our compliments to the chef. Should have known..the chef is the former owner and chef of Il Sol Toscano - Joe came out to say hello. Glad to see they've handed the reins to someone so talented as him. And what a great priced menu. Will go every Monday night for such great fare!
(5)Lauren T.
Horrible horrible service. We walked in and the place was empty. Sat down at the bar which was occupied only by employees. As soon as we sat down every employee disappeared. So we waited about five minutes for someone to finally come back and take our drink order. Once that happened we were once again ignored. I actually had the audacity to ask the bartender a question. The MANAGER of the bar looked at me as if I was the rudest person and then proceeded to ignore me all together. All in all, the place sucked. I've never been treated that way before. Period. Let alone treated that way at an establishment that I'm PAYING to be in. I'll never go back.
(1)Ashley S.
I came here recently on a Thursday evening for dinner and a drink. This place was pretty low key, calm and relaxing. They were playing some French music at the time which was a nice and unexpected change. The beer menu wasn't extremely impressive but they had a few good options. My brother and I both ordered the standard burger and fries. Seasoning on the burger was good and the cheese and prosciutto topping was a nice touch. I loved the taste of the focaccia they served it on - my only complaint is that they toasted it a little too much and it was kind of hard to bite into. Fries appeared to be fresh cut and were tasty - kind of small in portion size, but that's probably a good thing! Overall a nice little place to grab a quick bite and a beer.
(3)Lauren L.
Will not be returning. The service was awful, we stood in the vestibule for about ten minutes before even being acknowledge by anyone despite being passes by at least four waiters/waitresses. We ordered drinks as soon as we say down and they never came. Finally they showed up AFTET our food was halfway gone. The food was just as disappointing as the service. Our burgers were served on stale rolls with soggy onion rings. When our bill came we saw that we were charged double for our drinks when they should have been free considering how late they arrived during our meal. Then when we notified the waiter we were questioned as if we were lying in order to get one over on them. The entire experience was completely horrible and I cannot believe that this place is still in business considering the area, I would think that people would have caught on by now.
(2)Jenn B.
So after raving about your food to our family we all ordered over $100 in JUST burgers and fries for dinner one weekday evening --your burgers were dry shiveled versions of the buttery soft ones we previously enjoyed, the truffle fries were limp water logged barely covered in what you call aioli (not at all worth $11)..and that left 4 people still hungry and pissed at me for ever having vouched for you:(
(1)Ashley R.
I recently went to this restaurant the food is excellent. The martinis are incredible a bit expensive but they have great happy hour!! The have a piano bar and it is really fun on the weekend nights they have DJs. They also have cute outside seating! This is a great place to go
(5)Gerald S.
As the nearest watering hole to my Newtown office, Black Horse is a great place for an after work happy hour stop. I just walk over for an hour, have a beer, martini or margarita and a nibble of pretty good bar food specials, and make my way home. It is also perfect for pre/post meeting meetings to prep/rehash the issue of the moment. I usually find my buds upstairs in a cluster, but we have been known to find a corner downstairs to stand around in as we strategize or just blow off steam. The alcohol is what swings this dark horse, but the kitchen does turn out some quality dishes. The wings, dumplings, Mexi/Texi tapas, and even the burgers are done well, though their concepts may be different than you have experienced elsewhere. Too, you gotta like the overall atmosphere of the old place. The renovations have not detracted from the historical marker that this tavern has been over many many years. After one drink it is easy to imagine the Continental Army marching down State Street on its way to Washington Crossing. After two drinks you realize that there are Tory sympathizers in the bar. After three, the Sons of Liberty are ready to throw them out into the street. I have not actually sat down for a full dinner here. No particular reason other than the circumstances of the day. The prices are higher than my other favorite watering hole, The Clubhouse, but the differential can be explained by the ambiance and the targeted customers. Depending on my mood, BHT can be exactly right, particularly if planning the next skirmish in the War of Independence.
(4)Jamie M.
I really wanted to like this place. I wanted it to be our new place when we moved into the area. I left my first dinner here thinking that it was both pretty terrible and terribly expensive. They are basically charging fine dining prices for highly mediocre food. That really pisses me off. I gave them two stars because I did like the truffle fries, but they were also insanely overpriced. We had a reservation and it was fairly early on a Friday night. They didn't have a decent table available as everything seemed to be reserved. Funny, I thought we had also reserved, but maybe I don't understand what reservation means. I think they were also out of a couple of the entrees that my table of four tried to order. The food was just meh, but with the outrageous prices for what it was, it made it taste even worse. I don't plan to return. Some places don't deserve a second chance. I honestly can't understand all the glowing reviews, but I have observed some grade inflation in the greater Newtown area.
(2)Rachel B.
My husband and I went here on St. Paddy's day to hear a local band playing. There wasn't any space downstairs so we went upstairs to sit at a table. It took at least 15 minutes to get a beer menu and another 10 minutes for the waitress to take our food & drink order. After an additional hour ( 1 1/2 hours total since sitting) we still hadn't received any food. We only ordered simple bar food (chicken tenders, fries, and calamari). We end up leaving money for our beers on the table and walking out. A few other tables around us had cancelled their food order because of the insane wait time.
(1)Mike M.
So we are in on a Wednesday night and trying this place for the first time. My first impression. Stay away. Service is abysmal. Waitstaff is rude, slow not very attentive. 2 guys just did not care. We will never go back. Food was fair. How can you screw up a Burger and salad. What a mess. 1 star
(1)Phil Y.
We went for a late weeknight dinner/snack. We were the only people at the bar for the first 30 minutes and only one other person came in while we were there, so I guess it's only crowded on weekends and during happy hour. Ordered the truffle fries which everyone recommended. Didn't taste a ton of truffle oil but the fries themselves were well prepared, crispy and flavorful. The cheese and aioli were a nice touch. However, $11 for a medium sized portion is way overpriced in my opinion. If I did it over again, I'd just try to order a side of plain fries. Sliders were decent sized and I'd say pretty standard for bar food. Nice selection of beers on tap. May go back during happy hour or trivia night.
(3)Jeff M.
A sad day. They have definately fallen down. Tonight only 6-7 beers on tap, about 10-12 out and covered with Crown Royal bags. "Because of the holidays." Not busy like it used to be. Then some of the beers are not on happy hour. Crazy. We won't be back. There are other craft bar bars locally.
(1)Flavia C.
Leaning towards a 4 1/2 star! I really enjoyed this place. Historic, beautiful intimate with plenty of options for your night. Downstairs is fun happy hour atmosphere, with DJ's and specials. Upstairs there is a hip piano bar and the music is great. I opted for the formal dining room where I could hear the music in the background but feel as if I had been transported back over 100 years when the place was built. The drinks are great and the food is fantastic. The duck dish anyway. The waiter who was fun, knowledgeable and patient when we closed the place down & didn't rush us at all --recommended the duck dish rather forcefully as in you can't leave here without trying it:) Boy am I glad he did. It melted in your mouth, with gnocchi and spinach. I'm writing this review in large part because I really wanted to go back but couldn't recall the name so now I have it saved:) Def. worth checking out for a nice date, happy hour downstairs,. a night out with the girls in the piano bar you name it!
(4)Phyllis F.
Not good. Waited an hour for our appetizer and meal. The waitress was also the barmaid, as was the waiter. No bread served or offered. Bacon wrapped shrimp with jalapeño grits consisted of limp bacon and flavorless grits. Dinner was Scallops with crab risotto and peas ($27) The waitress asked what "side" I wanted, which confused me since the meal seemed complete without a side. So I wound up with 3 scallops (not seared) cut in half to give the appearance of more, cold mashed potatoes, no crab risotto, and peas. After the disappointing meal I didn't finish, I was not offered coffee or dessert and again had to flag the waiter down to pay out disappointing $75 bill (martinis $13 ea) after $10 comp. I would not recommend eating here I have had good meals here before and am not sure what changed, but tonight's meal was exceedingly disappointing. A complete waste of money.
(1)Jeff B.
Great ambience, two small bars. It is a little local gem in Newtown. Great place for a drink or two. If you like the tapas style then you will enjoy the food. We usually get filet mignon.
(3)C M.
I am from the Lower Bucks County area, and though this would be a great place to bring my fiancee and my parents and other family together for dinner (we live out of town now) to show her Newtown, and what I remembered to be a really cool colonial tavern and restaurant. Unfortunately the place is under new management since the last time I had been there and the whole experience was just bizarre. I called the restaurant a few days in advance to make reservations, since we would be a party of 8, and asked if they would be having the live jazz quartet during the time we would be there for dinner, and I was told absolutely, yes. During our dinner, no jazz to be found, however one of the bus boys or waiters was playing their hard rock/heavy metal playlist while we were eating (this is supposed to be a nice place!). Then comes the food, I had the lobster bisque, which tasted like the jalapeño cheese whiz, that you dip your pretzel into. In fact, all of the soups and appetizers were nuclear hot with pepper or hot sauce, and no one could eat them. My sister also had chicken parm that was practically crusted in red pepper - it literally burnt the skin off her mouth. The table service was also terrible, I had to ask for bread, and instead of some fresh bread or hot rolls (which you might expect at a place where the average price per head is $60+), we got some stale sliced bread, that looked like it came from the leftover bin at the grocery store. The waiter was also very strange, often standing by the table and interjecting himself into our conversations, while forgetting to bring drinks and other things we asked him for. Totally bizarre. Finally "one of the owners" comes up to our table, still cold from the outside, and jacket on, comes up and shakes my hand (and all other 8 people at the table) while we're eating, explains he is the manager, and goes on for almost 10 minutes in an awkward one way conversation. I'm all about owners making connections with their guests, thats how you make a new comer a regular, but he didn't even tell us his name, or ask us how the food was. He was also dressed like he had just been working on a utility pole. I kind of wanted to wash my hands. Oh and here's the kicker - they didn't have desert. We asked if they usually do and they said yes, but this particular high traffic Saturday night they just didn't. I mean they could have picked up an ice cream cake at the grocery store when they got that old bread! Jeez. Finally, as we're about to leave the jazz group starts playing. The weird thing was no one turned off the hard rock music and the two were competing with each other as the employees of the restaurant walked around not seeming to notice two types of music were going full force at the same time. No hard feelings, just extremely strange.
(1)Christa B.
We love the atmosphere; very intimate setting as well as cozy. Beer selection is nice; something for the craft beer people as well as the everyday beers. Haven't had the food here but the service from the bar is excellent. Great place for people to go.
(4)Priya M.
Tapas who? Nothing on the menu screamed tapas..bar food mostly..truffle fries were good and mayo filled..wings seemed old/frozen...slim picking on drink menu..but wine was surprisingly good..noisy and not really a getting out experience but had good prompt service
(3)Veronica K.
I'll preface this by saying I'm only reviewing the bar here; I've never ate any of their food. That being said I really do love this place! Sometimes I'll be in Newtown, usually catching dinner or just walking around, and this is a great little place to stumble into. The interior is dimly lit, but they often have candles on tables which gives it a slightly romantic feel. Their draft list is pretty decent, they have some macros, a few high profile crafts like Sam Adams, and also a bunch of rotating crafts. Every time I go I get to try some interesting brews. Believe me when I say this place is a great last stop for a night out. Just watch out for some of the regulars, a few of them have been a little too boisterous.
(4)Paul L.
Haven't been back in a few months. My wife's wine was definitely old as it tasted like vinegar. The menu used to be much bigger and really delicious. Really disappointed in the menu and quality. Just didn't care to go back. I guess the bar scene would be ok if you want a small local area on a weekend night.
(1)Andrew W.
I was in Newton on a random Saturday night, a friend and I were going to try out a golf simulator nearby and we figured we could find a place on the State Street strip to grab a quick bite to eat. Never having been to Newton, I was pleasantly surprised by the community, its a really interesting area with some very, very old buildings and Victorian houses. Anyway, we saw the Black Horse Tavern when driving around and figured we'd pop in for food. Neither of us realized it was a restaurant, not a bar/tavern, so we were thrown off a bit when they asked if we had reservations. They fit us, but were kind of rude about it "We have tables available NOW, but you'll have to be out by 8:00." That theme continued with the small note card on our table that said soothing to the effect of how there are reservations after you, so be mindful of your time. Have they had issues with this? Are people not aware that you might have people with reservations after you in a public restaurant? It was bizarre. The food we had was good. Since we were trying to be quick we had burgers - I went with the Tavern Burger (very good cheese and sauteed onions) and my buddy had the regular burger. Both were seasoned and cooked well... and allowed us to depart without upsetting the people who had reservations next to us. Thank god. It was a nice place and most of the meals that came out of the kitchen seemed to look appetizing, but the vibe I got from the whole "eat and leave" mentality kind of spoiled it.
(3)A R.
Have been here before and liked it... but not anymore. Poor service, sour wine, mediocre food - and we had to wait an hour to get our dinner. This restaurant is sinking.... fast! Too bad. They lost 2 more customers last night.
(1)Amy H.
Went here with a friend a couple months ago, and I came to Yelp looking for the name of this place because I wanted to potentially go back. That's the first sign this place made a favorable mark in my mind. The Black Horse Tavern delivered solid food, and really nice "date" atmosphere (at least on a week night - can't speak to the noise on the weekend, haven't seen it). The truffle fries were phenomenal, and the drinks were good, strong, but balanced. It's a great little "unknown" spot for good conversation in an intimate setting. Happy to patronize them again.
(4)Mathew M.
Not sure why this place is called tapas. Me and my wife went to have some tapas but there was no tapas menu. Maybe something changed? We basically had bar food - wings and truffle fries. It was okay. Pretty loud place as they have live music both upstairs and downstairs. Might be a good place to go for drinks but not for tapas as I was expecting.
(3)Pablo G.
I've been to this place a few times and live in Newtown. It has never been my scene but I thought I should yelp a review. The bartender assumed I had a few drinks in me and decided to substitute a single for a ten when returning my change. I will not be returning.
(1)Christina L.
Being new to the area, I am always on a mission to find great local spots, and this fits the bill. I read other Yelp review (which is how I often determine where to go) and I have to agree that the food is great, and the venue is awesome. The truffle fries are fantastic, but I was surprised they came in one of those cheap wooden salad bowls... how about a fries stand? Something to up the presentation? My penne a la vodka was great too, though a little expensive, in my opinion, for what you get. Being from NY, I know high prices, and it seems that the food here is a little too high priced for what you get. I do love the atmosphere and how there are separate rooms for dining, and bars... upstairs is an awesome piano bar lounge, and downstairs are two more bars. It almost feels like you're in a vintage stone home- it's great. Lastly, and this has nothing to do with food, is the upstairs dining room is DRAFTY and barren. I ate dinner with my coat on. I love the wooden slats in the ceiling but you can hardly see them contrast against the dark red walls. I do wonder also why there is no artwork or lighting somewhere to add more to the ambiance? There's a gorgeous stone fireplace but it is blocked by a 4-top table. I think a much better job could be done with the space upstairs (for dining). I definitely would recommend this place and I definitely will be back
(4)Walter C.
Dropped by there again and brought the kids. As usual a fantastic meal for all! Flat breads were terrific! My son loved his special made surf and turf. Thanks Robert! And my daughter loved her seafood trio. This place never let's me down.
(4)Debby H.
What a delicious experience! Two of us used a Groupon & so glad we found this restaurant. It was a busy Saturday night & we waited a few minutes for our upstairs table to be ready. We had a terrific server...so pleasant & efficient! We shared a delicious seafood flatbread. My friend had the wild salmon & crab cake; I had the 10 oz rib eye that came with your choice of vegetables and sauces. I chose truffle butter as my sauce & roasted potatoes and spinach. The dish was brought with mashed potatoes, but it didn't matter since they were delicious, the steak perfection at medium rare & despite being 19 degrees outside, the food was served hot! We loved that the owner came around to shake our hand, bring us water refills and chat with us when we stopped him to compliment him on the experience. No doubt I'll be back, and my friend said the same!
(4)Kendall B.
Happy Hour--a time, usually between the hours of 6-8, when drinks are offered at reduced prices, encouraging co-workers to mingle outside of the office setting. This is what Happy Hour used to be-back in the 1990s when people had jobs and could afford to keeping purchasing cocktails long after the drink specials had ended. But with the unemployment rate ticking ever higher, the definition of Happy Hour is changing: it is no longer only a place for the over-worked to release steam, it is also a valuable networking tool for the unemployed to try to find work. And bar/restaurant owners are recognizing this paradigm shift caused by the economic recession, offering better drink prices, extending discounts to include menu items, and even beginning their Happy Hours earlier in the day (before the 9-5er's are released from their cubicles). As an unemployed college graduate (or stay-at-home-daughter, as I prefer to say), I recognize the valuable opportunity that Happy Hours provide for networking (and budgeting) and I try to make it out to one each week. Of course, I also need to vent my frustrations of failed interviews and wasted cover letters! Right now my favorite Happy Hour hands-down is The Black Horse Tavern in Newtown. They do it all right: Starts at 5 pm, ends at 7 pm (Mon-Sat) $3 drafts, $4 wines, and $6 martinis 1/2 price menu items Trivia on Friday nights (for free drink prizes-I won one last week!) Free bar food available during Happy Hour (usually their delicious flatbreads!) In my opinion, it's the best deal in town and like all good things, it draws a consistent crowd. Aka: If you get there after 5 pm expect to sip your delicious martini while standing! They have an extensive speciality martini list, but I recommend the Grapefruit Bubbling Cosmo with Ruby Red Vodka, Cointreau, Lime Juice, Cranberry Juice, all topped off with a splash of Champagne. It has a perfect blend of citrus without tasting artificial. As far as bar food goes, YOU MUST GET THE TRUFFLE FRIES!!! They come topped with Parmesan Cheese and Belgian Aioli and they are to die for! I also really like the flatbreads at this place. The Margarita is very simple but delicious made with fresh mozzarella, fresh basil, oregano, olive oil, and spicy marinara sauce. It's tasty finger food that is easy to share, and I've got to admit that it is better than some of the pizza places I've tried in these neck of the woods. Last but not least, I also tried the Caesar Salad with crisp hearts of romaine and a garlicky brioche crostini, dressed to perfection with a Caesar drizzle. It was a great portion for like $4, which is definitely recession-approved pricing!
(5)John G.
It was OK. That's all I can really say. The atmosphere is cozy and nice, but the food isn't the best, especially for the prices. Their truffle fries are good, but it seems like the portions have decreased over the past couple of years. Unless I get a Groupon, I won't be coming back to this place. Too many other nice restaurants around at better prices. Sorry, I wish I could give it a 'thumbs up'...but I just can't.
(2)Samantha P.
I'm struggling with the star rating, but I think the Black Horse Tavern deserves three stars. My boyfriend and I went here for dinner on a Friday night. Here's what I liked about the place: Location & atmosphere: at 6:30 on a Friday, this place had a pretty good amount of people, which is always nice. They sat us at a very cute table against the stone brick wall, which felt a little secluded and I liked that. It's like we were tucked away. It looks like they have two bars which is pretty cool. Bar menu and happy hour: the drinks and the fries were excellent. I will go back just for that. And let me tell you, white creamy mayo stuff freaks me out, but I was able to suck up and deal because the truffle fries were that good. And my french martini was excellent. Where the Tavern went awry: In addition to the fries, we ordered mahi mahi tacos and I could smell them the second they came to the table. And it was not a good smell. I took a bite and it tasted fine, but the smell was overwhelmingly bad. I'm honestly surprised it got past the cook and the waiters. So, we just passed on that and waited for our entrees. My entree was very good - I ordered the duck with mushrooms and gnocchi. This gnocchi wasn't typical, it was fried and wasn't very potatoey but I'm not complaining - it was delicious. My boyfriends entree on the other hand was pretty bizarre. When he ordered the short ribs he was given the choice of 5 different "sauces", the last one being a mushroom sauce. But when he got his entree there was no sauce, just some meat and mushrooms on the side. It was dry! But here is the most bizarre part... these were not short ribs. I have cooked short ribs 50+ times in my life. This was more like slices of pot roast. Albeit, the meat was tender and well-seasoned, but it really could have used some kind of gravy. So take from my review what you will. The place has potential but maybe you just have to order the right thing. I would stick with the drinks, the bar food and stay away from the seafood...
(3)Joan M.
Took my husband parents there. We had a groupon which was a very good deal. Upon arriving we had eight o'clock reservation we were seated immediatly taken to our table where we we're greeted by the owner which was a very nice touch. The server was very nice food totally amazing. After dinner we went into the piano room for a after dinner drink which was really nice too. Overall excellent experience. We definitely will be back with or without a groupon.
(5)Gnomer B.
Like many others who wrote a glowing review of Black Horse's happy hour, I too am a fan. I came in last Friday night for the first time and met two friends at the bar. This place is QUAINT AS HELL. If you like quaint taverns, with a historic feel, you will get that here. The decor is lovely; the back wall of the bar is stone. STONE, YOU HEAR ME? Being all colonial and shit. Love me some stone walls. Anyway, the happy hour prices are fantastic for Newtown. $3 pints? Yes, please, I will have all the beers. My friends ordered some truffle fries, which were also discounted for happy hour, and I tasted them and immediately got a raging food boner. The two bartender dudes on staff were attentive and friendly, and refilled our beers promptly despite how packed it was getting in there. The crowd was of the older sort, but very upbeat and friendly people. Like hanging out with your parents cool friends, if your parents have cool friends. Mine don't. As we were leaving the owner was shaking everyone's hands and thanking them for coming. I didn't realize he had tried to shake mine until after I had breezed on by, snubbing the poor guy. SORRY MANG. I'll do better next time, and will certainly frequent your establishment again.
(4)Neil G.
My wife and I came here for dinner on a Friday night. It's located in a town called Newtown PA, which I am not very familiar with but seems very nice. Upon walking in, we realized we must have walked through the wrong entrance. We walked through the bar and found the hostess at the entrance we should have come in on. At first we were kind of worried that the only formal seating was in the bar area because 1) There weren't that many tables, and 2) The bar was very crowded, and kind of loud. Not a bad thing, and what you would expect from a bar on a Friday night, just not the atmosphere we were looking for on our date night out. After finding the hostess, we were pleasantly surprised that they have a whole other floor for formal dining. Very different atmosphere from downstairs, exactly what we were looking for. Nice, quiet, ambiance, etc... We were given the option to sit by the window which was nice, and shortly after we were greeted by our fantastic waitress Guyel (I know I mispelled that, sorry Guyel). She took our drink order and notified us that we still have 20 minutes for Happy Hour pricing. If you've read any of my reviews, you know I'm a big beer guy. $3 for anything on draft, and that included craft beers. This is the best deal I've seen in a long time. I ended up ordering 2 dogfish head 60 minute ipas. Everything was going great until we found out they removed the only vegetarian entree on the menu which my wife, being vegetarian, was planning on ordering. We obviously have to be very mindful of where we are eating because of her dietary constraint and always look up menus online before we chose a place to eat at. She ended up having to order a few vegetarian appetizers, the hummus plate and vege dumplings. The hummus was just ok, not much flavor. The dumplings on the other hand were probably the best vege dumplings I've ever eaten. I think she regrets not ordering two of them. My dinner on the other hand was fantastic. I ordered the Scottish Salmon and Crab Cake Entree and I was very happy with my decision. The Salmon sat on a bead of mashed potatoes, broccoli rabe and a crab cake with some type white sauce which really made the dish. Salmon was cooked to perfection, portion was just right. It was a $22 dish, but I say well worth the money. I can honestly say it was one of the best dinners I've eaten in a while. Overall, I think the service was great, food was amazing, I just hope they add one or more vegetarian entrees to the menu. That would definitely keep us coming back.
(4)Donna K.
Seated at 8:30. Cesar's salads not served til 9:15. Did not see waiter until then. Steak was served raw. Had to send back and it came back mid rare when order med well. Potatoes were disgusting left the worst after taste. Veggies were definitely frozen. Out of multiple dishes on the menu. Restaurant is filthy. Will not come back. Ever.
(1)Aasima A.
We have been to downtown Newtown a few times before but that was for the best ice cream! this time, we were hungry and wanted actual food. We checked Yelp and sauntered into the Black Horse Tavern. The inside is really charming, with nice exposed brick walls, and wood staircase, etc. There weren't to many people at the bar but we chose to sit at a table. Ordered a few things and then the afterwork/ regular crowd started filling up the place. As I looked around though I couldn't help but notice THERE IS NO DIVERSITY. All the patrons there looked the same: same polo/ collared short and khacki shorts or jean and some type of sandal or sneaker. No one of color, no one from any other socio-economic group. It didn't make me uncomfortable, because I for one love trying new things and because the servers and bartender were great and didn't make me feel any type of way, but was weird in a Twilight Zone kind of way. The food was decent, just small portions. We had to get extra appetizers at the end of our dinner because most of us were still hungry. Over all was cool to finally get inside and see what the hype was, but i don't know if we'll go back unless out of nessesity. Decent place, but the small portions and high prices are not warranted. Maybe the crows is differrent later in the evening or on the weekend.
(2)Sarah S.
Formerly "The Grotto" ..... Great happy hour place and good for live music on the weekends too. I'm a regular here and love the atmosphere. However, I have not had a meal here in a while so I can't speak for the eats
(4)Sean K.
Terrific happy hour! Great beer and wine specials and friendly bartenders...the owner is there a lot and makes sure everyone is happy...a really good thing! The Dark Horse burger...the bride and I...who've had them all over the country...rate the house burger as number one...a bit expensive but worth every penny!
(5)Lolly G.
I moved to New Town about 4 months ago and this was the first bar I went to. I've been hooked since. The happy hour is an awesome deal with great drink specials. If you are a beer drinker you will find some really awesome beers on tap. The food is what makes Black Horse stand out from other bars in the area. It's delicious, fresh, and unique dishes. As a vegetarian, I find it difficult to find places to eat but not here. A favorite of mine is the tofu tacos (that you don't have to be a vegetarian to love) as well as the amazing flat breads. I've tried a few things off of their new menu and they've all been delicious. I am here at least once a week and have told many people to try to it out. Issacs is a competitor across the way but only because of their beer selection. The environment doesn't come close and their food is not good. The only complaint I would have is that one of the bartenders was rude to my group once, but we now avoid her.
(5)Jooj S.
This bar/restaurant has terrible service. Our server at the bar was downright rude; I believe her name was Christina. Bumping into us, dirty looks and stares, clearing drinks, and ignoring us....pretty much the opposite of what a server/bartender should be. Christina needs to find another job because she is scaring away the customers.
(1)Robyn V.
I had a great experience here. I saw the deal they offered on groupon so i figured i'd give it a try. i went during happy hour so the drinks were very reasonably priced and the food was really very tasty. i had the truffle fries and the duck and my niece had the chicken pasta dish. then, when the server heard it was my neice's birthday he brought out a humongous slice of the chocolate peanut butter cake for free, even though we were already using a groupon. (the cake was incredibly delicious, especially with the chocolate martini.) definitely going back here and think the prices are fair for the portions and quality of the food you get.
(4)Betina L.
This is a nice place for happy hour Good atmosphere very inexpensive beer The owner is super friendly and does Friday trivia with free drinks for participants
(4)emily c.
I ate here once. I will maybe eat here again. I went for food and not to hang out at a bar, so my review of this place is as an eatery (though I did wash my meal down with an Allagash White which they have on tap alongside some other choice quaffs). I ordered the beet salad and the fish tacos. I wish I had ordered 2 of each- not because they were so good, because they were so small. My server gave me prior warning by suggesting I order 3 dishes, but I was still surprised to see such small plates of food. Fortunately, I'm not fond of stuffing my face silly when I dine, though I can imagine some people may get the feeling they are being ripped off here. I kinda think, when I'm not eating in NYC, a $9 beet salad ought to fulfill a small meal requirement, as should $9 fish tacos. Where taste is concerned, I thought the beet salad was rather lovely- fresh greens and tender beets. My tacos left me wanting the fish more seasoned (and less fishy tasting) and more lime flavor in the lime cream, or served with a wedge of lime for squeezing, and at least a spoonful of seasoned rice. I thought the meal arrived a tad late, but then I feel like I'm being too picky. Besides, the servers were attentive to clearing empty plates, and filling empty glasses. The decor is historic with a modern facelift, pleasantly done, with adequately dimmed lighting. I would come here to to hang out for the bar, and maybe to try the food again.
(2)Corinna G.
We were in Newtown unexpectedly, unfamiliar with the restaurants of the town. We happened upon The Black Horse Tavern and were unexpectedly surprised at the wonderful food and service. The owner went to each table to welcome everyone. Our waiter was excellent from beginning to end. We both got specials. One got the "Three Way Ribs" which were melt in your mouth ribs prepared three totally different ways. One of us got a seafood pot with a potato soup base. Appetizers were fabulous, perfect portion size, crazy unique area beers as well as the usual. The building is old and needs some improvements but it has that old tavern charm a new building will never have. Very friendly, helpful staff. We'll definitely go back.
(5)Will C.
The fries are amazing and wild mushroom flatbread is awesome! Happy hour is the way to go. Perfect for a snack and drink.
(4)Melissa M.
We were here for their hurricane party in August which was the first time since the menu change. I have to say I thoroughly enjoyed the food. There were a couple choices I think we didn't care for but nothing that deserves a negative review. The service was great and the drinks were spot on as well. We were surprised at the crowd that arrived around nine when the dj started. We couldn't help but get up and join them. It was a great evening! We look forward to going back very soon.
(4)Roberta R.
This is not the restaurant of old, don't let the quaint exterior fool you. The stodgy Newtown of the 1990s is thankfully long gone and this is the place to be for good bar food, conversation with the neighbors, jazz upstairs, sports on three tvs downstairs and the best DJ in town in back. For outdoor dining, get there early, the courtyard is small but well worth the wait on a nice Fall day. Don't forget to try the pork wings and fries, they will not disappoint. Regardless of age or musical preferences, this is the place to be every weekend, starting with the jazz on Wednesday right through to the piano bar and dance party on Saturday night. Don't miss it. For a quiet meal, go earlier. For a good light dinner, go any time before the grill closes, I think some time after 10 which is usually when the upstairs piano bar closes and the dance party downstairs really gets going.
(5)Jelyn F.
The only times I've been here are for Happy Hour. Their half price menu is awesome... the Pig Wings alone make it all worth while.
(4)Joe L.
Although the menu doesn't have many offerings, everything on it is delicious that I have tried so far. The flatbreads are good, but not as good as the pizzas used to be. Go with a burger and some truffle fries and you won't be disappointed. As far as staff go, the bartenders are all very nice. The owner is usually strolling around making sure everyone is taken care of. I have never been seated at a table, so I am not sure how the wait staff is.
(4)Theresa H.
Had a Groupon for one appetizer or flatbread and two entrees, so had to try this place. I had been there once before just for drinks during happy hour, but we didn't eat any food. Happy hour drink prices are good, but both times I was there, they were out of a lot of the craft beers on tap. At dinner on a Tuesday early evening, the waitresses excuse for that was that they get their kegs on Tuesdays. Well, it was 6:30 p.m. When were you going to tap them? AND, the time I went for happy hour, it was a Saturday! So what was the reason then? So dinner on Tuesday didn't start off so well. Made a reservation on-line, but upon arrival there was no one at the hostess stand - it just said seat yourself. We wanted to eat upstairs, but no one was there. We came back downstairs and there was only one tiny table available (the others had "reserved" signs on them - was one of them supposed to be mine?! no way of knowing since no one was there to tell us!). Finally, someone saw us standing there and I asked if we could sit upstairs. He said "upstairs is closed." So, since it was just the two of us we chose the tiny table (it is a very small area and very noisy with the bar in there). It took quite a while for a waitress to come over and take our drink order. Then it took even longer to get the drinks because she was also bartending! Had I caught on to that sooner, I would have gone up to the bar to get them myself. Food was just so-so. The flatbread was decent, but pretty small. It definitely would not have been worth the $11 had I been paying full price. My husband liked the fisherman's trio entree (I didn't try it). I had the rib-eye and it was only so-so. It was cooked properly, but it wasn't very flavorful other than way too much salt on the meat and side dishes. Again, not horrible - but definitely neither would have been worth the full menu price. Alas, it then took our waitress another looooong time to bring our second drink and another looooooooong time to bring our check. The place was crowded - so why do they have a waitress doing double duty as bartender?? Anyway, we ended up taking our check up to the bar to pay so we didn't have to wait any longer. Bottom line - I would only ever go here again for drinks at happy hour, and possibly the trio of appetizers that everyone seemed to be getting, which looked decent though I don't know what the price was. Lousy service and mediocre food.
(2)Monet E.
My beginning words to you and my friends are: Truffle Fries. Okay, so now that I have that out of the way, I must say that their Happy Hour is amazing, with $3.00 beers, $4.00 glasses of wine, and $5.00 martinis. Since, I am a major beer drinker, I go there for the $3.00 pints of beer and enjoy myself each time. The last time that I went, I met a really cool male bartender, it was during the week. Yesterday (Saturday) I went for their happy hour with two other friends who have never been, and was waited on by two rather lovely female bartenders. One was nicer than the other, but overall the customer service was pretty good. I love the hometown feel and the co-owner Michael came out and welcomed me and my friends to his restaurant. He and I had some great conversations about travel, beer, food, etc. That conversation added even more to the already homey/pleasant environment. So, yesterday I had my truffle fries (of course), the chicken tamale, and a piece of the mushroom flat bread, which were all very cheap (happy hour prices). I am in love with this place. If you are looking for an happy hour which is Mon-Fri with various delish beers on tap, good wine, and strong martinis, and truffle fries to die for, then The Black Horse Tavern is the place to be!!!
(5)Mike T.
We went to this restaurant on Saturday the 12th. The WORST experience that I have EVER had. Here is why: -They were running 30 minutes late for our reservation. -Bar was out of MANY beers - Including staples such as Coors Light, Miller Lite and Guiness. -People at the bar told us "good luck trying to order a drink". -When we finally sat at our table, we were then given two different menus. -The Server came and was very dejected when he had to tell us that they were out of Filet, Samon, Flank Steak as well as some other entrees. -That waiter was pleased that we asked to speak with the manager because "they are on the front lines all night". -At that we decided to leave. -We asked for the manager - who was snarky, CURSED and gave us a false name. -DO NOT GO TO THIS RESTAURANT! We thought that they had potential but simply do not care!
(1)Jerry W.
The highlight was the owner coming out to greet us. We arrived without a reservation on a Saturday night. The hostess seemed aggravated that we just walked in. She sat is by the kitchen door in the bar area. We asked the server to move us and he did. The Asian lettuce wrap was tasty, but super modest. Not worth the $9 price. In general, we felt a little underwhelmed. The owner was nice, but I would not go again. Sorry.
(2)Jim G.
Amazing food! My family stopped by at around 5:15 on a Thursday night. We ordered the truffle fries and they were the most amazing fries that we ever had! They tasted like sour cream and onion with a touch of garlic with shredded cheese on top. I will be dreaming about them until next time. We also ordered the Fisherman's trio. Everything was delicious....scallops, crabcake and mahi mahi on mashed potatoes drizzled with a lemon butter sauce. The only reason I am giving it a four star is because the dinner portion was very small for $24 and did not come with salad or bread. We also had the pig wings and if you like hot buffalo sauce and ginger together, then this is for you. It was a perfect explosion of both in your mouth. I loved it, family did not. The drinks were great as well. I ordered a chocolate martini which was only $6 for happy hour. Overall, the food was great, the atmosphere was extremely cozy and charming inside. It was dim but I loved that! Will return :))
(4)Charlie S.
The Black Horse is a great place to come for Happy Hour and to hang out with the after-work "professional" crowd. The bars are classy and the food is great. The menu is always changing and they have some really interesting plates. As far as Newtown goes, this place has some of the best music. Sometimes they bring in jazz bands and other nights they bring in somebody with an acoustic guitar. Either way, it's a great atmosphere that's always full of locals and visitors alike. It has a one-of-kind ambience that shouldn't be missed if you are in the area.
(5)Derek Z.
Great service. Cool atmosphere. Good food. I like tapped style. Get the fries.
(4)Susan V.
I agree with Dave T. The happy hour here is one of the best I've found in the Newtown area and I could eat the truffle fries for breakfast, lunch or dinner. They have something like 20 beers on tap, which is enough for me. Issacs has more beer options but I've never had a good meal there. If you haven't been to The Black Horse Tavern in the last month or so, I suggest you try the "new" happy hour. It runs from Mon-Sat from 5-7 pm. I really like the revolutionary vibe, too.
(4)David S.
We absolutely love this place! It has a great tavern vibe to it, has a great happy hour, and when the owner is there, he shakes every customer's hand and thanks them for coming. The food is quite good, granted we have only eaten happy hour food, and very reasonable in price (again, happy hour prices). He also does a ten or so question trivia in the evening and if you get a question right, you get a free drink. Great vibe, good people, good food, and good booze...what more can you ask for?
(5)Dave T.
This is a solid place with a good happy hour. They have a good beer selection, although not as good as isaacs, their food is lightyears better. Great decor and a good place to have drinks and have a meal. The flatbreads and truffle fries are tasty, and are half off during happy hour. They also have some other good stuff like lamb meatballs, and beef shortrib sandwich but i didn't see it on the menu last time i was there. The menu does change frequently, which isn't necessarily a bad thing! I'm not sure what the previous reviewer meant about the vibe being forced, but it's pretty fun when i go there.
(4)M R.
I made a reservation in mid-January for dinner for 4 and was very excited to try Black Horse. The menu looked promising, however, I will never know. When we arrived at Black Horse, we stood in the entry for about 5 minutes before being acknowledged. Then we were told to move to the bar area. When I mentioned to the host that we had a reservation he replied with 'That's nice, darlin', but some people are as considerate [to the fact] that you have a reservation and its going to be awhile.' First of all, don't call me 'darlin'' and use such a snide tone. Secondly, Black Horse had my phone number. Why didn't they call to tell me that there was a delay? We left and had an amazing dinner at Duck Sauce.
(1)janis k.
This restaurant has been in business for three years and we finally decided to try it . We were greeted by the friendly owner and immediately felt like we were off to a good start. Unfortunately it went downhill after that. It took 20 minutes to be seated even though there were three empty tables. Service was perfunctory - no one came a single time to ask if we needed anything. We finally had to track down our server to get the check. The food came out tepid but because it took an hour and we were starved we were afraid to send it back. The portions were microscopic and we felt hungry when we left. All in all we were very disappointed.
(2)Wise C.
Pretty average. Visited with a co-worker to grab dinner, each ordered steak which was way over cooked. Salads were nothing special. Over priced for what you get.
(3)Henry C S.
I've been here for many a happy hour and I do agree that it's not bad for drinks. However, the service is spotty unless you're sitting at the bar. They say they feature free apps during HH but it consisted of a small bowl of guac and salsa stuck on a barrel in a corner of the front bar with an ever empty plate of what looked like pita bread. I ordered the beet salad for $8 and it was a total waste. It was about 10 small bites of salad...worth half the price. If nothing else sit around and listen to the beautiful people talk about why they're beautiful.
(2)Lauren D.
I know we're only in April, but I can tell you that my dinner here was the best I've had all year. I can't tell you how many times I've walked away from restaurants wondering how chefs could serve some of the meals that have arrived at my table. Not here. Chef Foga makes his meal with one key ingredient: love. My husband had previously posted to Yelp that he would like more vegetarian meals - Chef actually replied to his post and requested that we ask for him so that he could make a special dinner. Last night we were out with our 3 month old, which I know can spell disaster for many restaurateurs - we were so warmly welcomed by the owner, staff and other patrons that it immediately made us feel good just being in the restaurant. Gaelle, the host, went out of her way to find a baby-friendly table. On our rare night out, we were of course interested in libations right away. BHT has a healthy selection of craft and mega-brewery beers (not to mention martinis and wine). The Franzsikaner was extremely fresh and the Naked Brewing Co's Pomegranate Hefe so refreshing. Dan, our friendly and genuinely kind waiter, obliged us with the complete list from memory (although a written menu might be helpful too) - so many great options. For our appetizer, we had the mushroom flatbread. I generally like this appetizer when I've had it elsewhere, but this one sets the standard for all others going forward - nice meaty mushrooms on top of a mild but tasty cheese - on the perfectly crisp yet soft flatbread. No pre-fabricated appetizer feeling here - seriously freshly made and would be perfect for just a night of drinks and appetizers. Chef did not disappoint on our entrees. Sight unseen, I agreed to try whatever he made. I can't even generalize my meal as a stir-fry, because that wouldn't do it justice. The meal had carrots, asparagus, tomatoes, red cabbage, tofu and penne all perfectly chopped and topped with a soy marinade. It's one of those meals that you feel great after you eat it because it's not only tasty but healthy as well. If I hit Mega Millions, I will be hiring Robert Foga as my personal chef. After dinner, Chef even asked me to call a day or so ahead and he would get whatever ingredients were needed for another special vegetarian meal! My husband had the Scottish salmon and crab cake dinner. I can tell that this is one of the menu's signature dishes. At $22, it's a bargain - the nice-sized portions of fish look extremely fresh -- by the way, the crab cake is all crab. I won't repeat my husband's previous post, but it was yet again a terrific meal. If you're looking for an extra special night out, strongly consider Black Horse Tavern. You'll have a fabulous meal made with love in a very warm setting.
(5)Jessica F.
The food was very mediocre and very over priced service was bad. Sorry but would not recommend it.
(2)Melissa L.
This place has improved dramatically, nice place for drinks and appetizers especially. There seafood was really good and fresh. They have a nice selection on tap and a old rustic feel. Bar isn't huge but comfy.
(4)Milo Y.
Cool ambiance. Owner cool with the handshakes, way over priced for the crab cake and the fish and chips for what you would expect. Quality excellent, but not one of a kind to support the price of the food.
(3)Lauren T.
Horrible horrible service. We walked in and the place was empty. Sat down at the bar which was occupied only by employees. As soon as we sat down every employee disappeared. So we waited about five minutes for someone to finally come back and take our drink order. Once that happened we were once again ignored. I actually had the audacity to ask the bartender a question. The MANAGER of the bar looked at me as if I was the rudest person and then proceeded to ignore me all together. All in all, the place sucked. I've never been treated that way before. Period. Let alone treated that way at an establishment that I'm PAYING to be in. I'll never go back.
(1)Jeff B.
Great ambience, two small bars. It is a little local gem in Newtown. Great place for a drink or two. If you like the tapas style then you will enjoy the food. We usually get filet mignon.
(3)April G.
We went tonight for the Monday night locals menu. The eggplant parm and tilapia lemoncello were so "New York" good that we asked to give our compliments to the chef. Should have known..the chef is the former owner and chef of Il Sol Toscano - Joe came out to say hello. Glad to see they've handed the reins to someone so talented as him. And what a great priced menu. Will go every Monday night for such great fare!
(5)Ashley S.
I came here recently on a Thursday evening for dinner and a drink. This place was pretty low key, calm and relaxing. They were playing some French music at the time which was a nice and unexpected change. The beer menu wasn't extremely impressive but they had a few good options. My brother and I both ordered the standard burger and fries. Seasoning on the burger was good and the cheese and prosciutto topping was a nice touch. I loved the taste of the focaccia they served it on - my only complaint is that they toasted it a little too much and it was kind of hard to bite into. Fries appeared to be fresh cut and were tasty - kind of small in portion size, but that's probably a good thing! Overall a nice little place to grab a quick bite and a beer.
(3)Lauren L.
Will not be returning. The service was awful, we stood in the vestibule for about ten minutes before even being acknowledge by anyone despite being passes by at least four waiters/waitresses. We ordered drinks as soon as we say down and they never came. Finally they showed up AFTET our food was halfway gone. The food was just as disappointing as the service. Our burgers were served on stale rolls with soggy onion rings. When our bill came we saw that we were charged double for our drinks when they should have been free considering how late they arrived during our meal. Then when we notified the waiter we were questioned as if we were lying in order to get one over on them. The entire experience was completely horrible and I cannot believe that this place is still in business considering the area, I would think that people would have caught on by now.
(2)Gerald S.
As the nearest watering hole to my Newtown office, Black Horse is a great place for an after work happy hour stop. I just walk over for an hour, have a beer, martini or margarita and a nibble of pretty good bar food specials, and make my way home. It is also perfect for pre/post meeting meetings to prep/rehash the issue of the moment. I usually find my buds upstairs in a cluster, but we have been known to find a corner downstairs to stand around in as we strategize or just blow off steam. The alcohol is what swings this dark horse, but the kitchen does turn out some quality dishes. The wings, dumplings, Mexi/Texi tapas, and even the burgers are done well, though their concepts may be different than you have experienced elsewhere. Too, you gotta like the overall atmosphere of the old place. The renovations have not detracted from the historical marker that this tavern has been over many many years. After one drink it is easy to imagine the Continental Army marching down State Street on its way to Washington Crossing. After two drinks you realize that there are Tory sympathizers in the bar. After three, the Sons of Liberty are ready to throw them out into the street. I have not actually sat down for a full dinner here. No particular reason other than the circumstances of the day. The prices are higher than my other favorite watering hole, The Clubhouse, but the differential can be explained by the ambiance and the targeted customers. Depending on my mood, BHT can be exactly right, particularly if planning the next skirmish in the War of Independence.
(4)Jamie M.
I really wanted to like this place. I wanted it to be our new place when we moved into the area. I left my first dinner here thinking that it was both pretty terrible and terribly expensive. They are basically charging fine dining prices for highly mediocre food. That really pisses me off. I gave them two stars because I did like the truffle fries, but they were also insanely overpriced. We had a reservation and it was fairly early on a Friday night. They didn't have a decent table available as everything seemed to be reserved. Funny, I thought we had also reserved, but maybe I don't understand what reservation means. I think they were also out of a couple of the entrees that my table of four tried to order. The food was just meh, but with the outrageous prices for what it was, it made it taste even worse. I don't plan to return. Some places don't deserve a second chance. I honestly can't understand all the glowing reviews, but I have observed some grade inflation in the greater Newtown area.
(2)Rachel B.
My husband and I went here on St. Paddy's day to hear a local band playing. There wasn't any space downstairs so we went upstairs to sit at a table. It took at least 15 minutes to get a beer menu and another 10 minutes for the waitress to take our food & drink order. After an additional hour ( 1 1/2 hours total since sitting) we still hadn't received any food. We only ordered simple bar food (chicken tenders, fries, and calamari). We end up leaving money for our beers on the table and walking out. A few other tables around us had cancelled their food order because of the insane wait time.
(1)Mike M.
So we are in on a Wednesday night and trying this place for the first time. My first impression. Stay away. Service is abysmal. Waitstaff is rude, slow not very attentive. 2 guys just did not care. We will never go back. Food was fair. How can you screw up a Burger and salad. What a mess. 1 star
(1)Jenn B.
So after raving about your food to our family we all ordered over $100 in JUST burgers and fries for dinner one weekday evening --your burgers were dry shiveled versions of the buttery soft ones we previously enjoyed, the truffle fries were limp water logged barely covered in what you call aioli (not at all worth $11)..and that left 4 people still hungry and pissed at me for ever having vouched for you:(
(1)Ashley R.
I recently went to this restaurant the food is excellent. The martinis are incredible a bit expensive but they have great happy hour!! The have a piano bar and it is really fun on the weekend nights they have DJs. They also have cute outside seating! This is a great place to go
(5)Phil Y.
We went for a late weeknight dinner/snack. We were the only people at the bar for the first 30 minutes and only one other person came in while we were there, so I guess it's only crowded on weekends and during happy hour. Ordered the truffle fries which everyone recommended. Didn't taste a ton of truffle oil but the fries themselves were well prepared, crispy and flavorful. The cheese and aioli were a nice touch. However, $11 for a medium sized portion is way overpriced in my opinion. If I did it over again, I'd just try to order a side of plain fries. Sliders were decent sized and I'd say pretty standard for bar food. Nice selection of beers on tap. May go back during happy hour or trivia night.
(3)Jeff M.
A sad day. They have definately fallen down. Tonight only 6-7 beers on tap, about 10-12 out and covered with Crown Royal bags. "Because of the holidays." Not busy like it used to be. Then some of the beers are not on happy hour. Crazy. We won't be back. There are other craft bar bars locally.
(1)Flavia C.
Leaning towards a 4 1/2 star! I really enjoyed this place. Historic, beautiful intimate with plenty of options for your night. Downstairs is fun happy hour atmosphere, with DJ's and specials. Upstairs there is a hip piano bar and the music is great. I opted for the formal dining room where I could hear the music in the background but feel as if I had been transported back over 100 years when the place was built. The drinks are great and the food is fantastic. The duck dish anyway. The waiter who was fun, knowledgeable and patient when we closed the place down & didn't rush us at all --recommended the duck dish rather forcefully as in you can't leave here without trying it:) Boy am I glad he did. It melted in your mouth, with gnocchi and spinach. I'm writing this review in large part because I really wanted to go back but couldn't recall the name so now I have it saved:) Def. worth checking out for a nice date, happy hour downstairs,. a night out with the girls in the piano bar you name it!
(4)Phyllis F.
Not good. Waited an hour for our appetizer and meal. The waitress was also the barmaid, as was the waiter. No bread served or offered. Bacon wrapped shrimp with jalapeño grits consisted of limp bacon and flavorless grits. Dinner was Scallops with crab risotto and peas ($27) The waitress asked what "side" I wanted, which confused me since the meal seemed complete without a side. So I wound up with 3 scallops (not seared) cut in half to give the appearance of more, cold mashed potatoes, no crab risotto, and peas. After the disappointing meal I didn't finish, I was not offered coffee or dessert and again had to flag the waiter down to pay out disappointing $75 bill (martinis $13 ea) after $10 comp. I would not recommend eating here I have had good meals here before and am not sure what changed, but tonight's meal was exceedingly disappointing. A complete waste of money.
(1)C M.
I am from the Lower Bucks County area, and though this would be a great place to bring my fiancee and my parents and other family together for dinner (we live out of town now) to show her Newtown, and what I remembered to be a really cool colonial tavern and restaurant. Unfortunately the place is under new management since the last time I had been there and the whole experience was just bizarre. I called the restaurant a few days in advance to make reservations, since we would be a party of 8, and asked if they would be having the live jazz quartet during the time we would be there for dinner, and I was told absolutely, yes. During our dinner, no jazz to be found, however one of the bus boys or waiters was playing their hard rock/heavy metal playlist while we were eating (this is supposed to be a nice place!). Then comes the food, I had the lobster bisque, which tasted like the jalapeño cheese whiz, that you dip your pretzel into. In fact, all of the soups and appetizers were nuclear hot with pepper or hot sauce, and no one could eat them. My sister also had chicken parm that was practically crusted in red pepper - it literally burnt the skin off her mouth. The table service was also terrible, I had to ask for bread, and instead of some fresh bread or hot rolls (which you might expect at a place where the average price per head is $60+), we got some stale sliced bread, that looked like it came from the leftover bin at the grocery store. The waiter was also very strange, often standing by the table and interjecting himself into our conversations, while forgetting to bring drinks and other things we asked him for. Totally bizarre. Finally "one of the owners" comes up to our table, still cold from the outside, and jacket on, comes up and shakes my hand (and all other 8 people at the table) while we're eating, explains he is the manager, and goes on for almost 10 minutes in an awkward one way conversation. I'm all about owners making connections with their guests, thats how you make a new comer a regular, but he didn't even tell us his name, or ask us how the food was. He was also dressed like he had just been working on a utility pole. I kind of wanted to wash my hands. Oh and here's the kicker - they didn't have desert. We asked if they usually do and they said yes, but this particular high traffic Saturday night they just didn't. I mean they could have picked up an ice cream cake at the grocery store when they got that old bread! Jeez. Finally, as we're about to leave the jazz group starts playing. The weird thing was no one turned off the hard rock music and the two were competing with each other as the employees of the restaurant walked around not seeming to notice two types of music were going full force at the same time. No hard feelings, just extremely strange.
(1)Christa B.
We love the atmosphere; very intimate setting as well as cozy. Beer selection is nice; something for the craft beer people as well as the everyday beers. Haven't had the food here but the service from the bar is excellent. Great place for people to go.
(4)Priya M.
Tapas who? Nothing on the menu screamed tapas..bar food mostly..truffle fries were good and mayo filled..wings seemed old/frozen...slim picking on drink menu..but wine was surprisingly good..noisy and not really a getting out experience but had good prompt service
(3)Andrew W.
I was in Newton on a random Saturday night, a friend and I were going to try out a golf simulator nearby and we figured we could find a place on the State Street strip to grab a quick bite to eat. Never having been to Newton, I was pleasantly surprised by the community, its a really interesting area with some very, very old buildings and Victorian houses. Anyway, we saw the Black Horse Tavern when driving around and figured we'd pop in for food. Neither of us realized it was a restaurant, not a bar/tavern, so we were thrown off a bit when they asked if we had reservations. They fit us, but were kind of rude about it "We have tables available NOW, but you'll have to be out by 8:00." That theme continued with the small note card on our table that said soothing to the effect of how there are reservations after you, so be mindful of your time. Have they had issues with this? Are people not aware that you might have people with reservations after you in a public restaurant? It was bizarre. The food we had was good. Since we were trying to be quick we had burgers - I went with the Tavern Burger (very good cheese and sauteed onions) and my buddy had the regular burger. Both were seasoned and cooked well... and allowed us to depart without upsetting the people who had reservations next to us. Thank god. It was a nice place and most of the meals that came out of the kitchen seemed to look appetizing, but the vibe I got from the whole "eat and leave" mentality kind of spoiled it.
(3)A R.
Have been here before and liked it... but not anymore. Poor service, sour wine, mediocre food - and we had to wait an hour to get our dinner. This restaurant is sinking.... fast! Too bad. They lost 2 more customers last night.
(1)Amy H.
Went here with a friend a couple months ago, and I came to Yelp looking for the name of this place because I wanted to potentially go back. That's the first sign this place made a favorable mark in my mind. The Black Horse Tavern delivered solid food, and really nice "date" atmosphere (at least on a week night - can't speak to the noise on the weekend, haven't seen it). The truffle fries were phenomenal, and the drinks were good, strong, but balanced. It's a great little "unknown" spot for good conversation in an intimate setting. Happy to patronize them again.
(4)Christina L.
Being new to the area, I am always on a mission to find great local spots, and this fits the bill. I read other Yelp review (which is how I often determine where to go) and I have to agree that the food is great, and the venue is awesome. The truffle fries are fantastic, but I was surprised they came in one of those cheap wooden salad bowls... how about a fries stand? Something to up the presentation? My penne a la vodka was great too, though a little expensive, in my opinion, for what you get. Being from NY, I know high prices, and it seems that the food here is a little too high priced for what you get. I do love the atmosphere and how there are separate rooms for dining, and bars... upstairs is an awesome piano bar lounge, and downstairs are two more bars. It almost feels like you're in a vintage stone home- it's great. Lastly, and this has nothing to do with food, is the upstairs dining room is DRAFTY and barren. I ate dinner with my coat on. I love the wooden slats in the ceiling but you can hardly see them contrast against the dark red walls. I do wonder also why there is no artwork or lighting somewhere to add more to the ambiance? There's a gorgeous stone fireplace but it is blocked by a 4-top table. I think a much better job could be done with the space upstairs (for dining). I definitely would recommend this place and I definitely will be back
(4)Debby H.
What a delicious experience! Two of us used a Groupon & so glad we found this restaurant. It was a busy Saturday night & we waited a few minutes for our upstairs table to be ready. We had a terrific server...so pleasant & efficient! We shared a delicious seafood flatbread. My friend had the wild salmon & crab cake; I had the 10 oz rib eye that came with your choice of vegetables and sauces. I chose truffle butter as my sauce & roasted potatoes and spinach. The dish was brought with mashed potatoes, but it didn't matter since they were delicious, the steak perfection at medium rare & despite being 19 degrees outside, the food was served hot! We loved that the owner came around to shake our hand, bring us water refills and chat with us when we stopped him to compliment him on the experience. No doubt I'll be back, and my friend said the same!
(4)Kendall B.
Happy Hour--a time, usually between the hours of 6-8, when drinks are offered at reduced prices, encouraging co-workers to mingle outside of the office setting. This is what Happy Hour used to be-back in the 1990s when people had jobs and could afford to keeping purchasing cocktails long after the drink specials had ended. But with the unemployment rate ticking ever higher, the definition of Happy Hour is changing: it is no longer only a place for the over-worked to release steam, it is also a valuable networking tool for the unemployed to try to find work. And bar/restaurant owners are recognizing this paradigm shift caused by the economic recession, offering better drink prices, extending discounts to include menu items, and even beginning their Happy Hours earlier in the day (before the 9-5er's are released from their cubicles). As an unemployed college graduate (or stay-at-home-daughter, as I prefer to say), I recognize the valuable opportunity that Happy Hours provide for networking (and budgeting) and I try to make it out to one each week. Of course, I also need to vent my frustrations of failed interviews and wasted cover letters! Right now my favorite Happy Hour hands-down is The Black Horse Tavern in Newtown. They do it all right: Starts at 5 pm, ends at 7 pm (Mon-Sat) $3 drafts, $4 wines, and $6 martinis 1/2 price menu items Trivia on Friday nights (for free drink prizes-I won one last week!) Free bar food available during Happy Hour (usually their delicious flatbreads!) In my opinion, it's the best deal in town and like all good things, it draws a consistent crowd. Aka: If you get there after 5 pm expect to sip your delicious martini while standing! They have an extensive speciality martini list, but I recommend the Grapefruit Bubbling Cosmo with Ruby Red Vodka, Cointreau, Lime Juice, Cranberry Juice, all topped off with a splash of Champagne. It has a perfect blend of citrus without tasting artificial. As far as bar food goes, YOU MUST GET THE TRUFFLE FRIES!!! They come topped with Parmesan Cheese and Belgian Aioli and they are to die for! I also really like the flatbreads at this place. The Margarita is very simple but delicious made with fresh mozzarella, fresh basil, oregano, olive oil, and spicy marinara sauce. It's tasty finger food that is easy to share, and I've got to admit that it is better than some of the pizza places I've tried in these neck of the woods. Last but not least, I also tried the Caesar Salad with crisp hearts of romaine and a garlicky brioche crostini, dressed to perfection with a Caesar drizzle. It was a great portion for like $4, which is definitely recession-approved pricing!
(5)Walter C.
Dropped by there again and brought the kids. As usual a fantastic meal for all! Flat breads were terrific! My son loved his special made surf and turf. Thanks Robert! And my daughter loved her seafood trio. This place never let's me down.
(4)John G.
It was OK. That's all I can really say. The atmosphere is cozy and nice, but the food isn't the best, especially for the prices. Their truffle fries are good, but it seems like the portions have decreased over the past couple of years. Unless I get a Groupon, I won't be coming back to this place. Too many other nice restaurants around at better prices. Sorry, I wish I could give it a 'thumbs up'...but I just can't.
(2)Samantha P.
I'm struggling with the star rating, but I think the Black Horse Tavern deserves three stars. My boyfriend and I went here for dinner on a Friday night. Here's what I liked about the place: Location & atmosphere: at 6:30 on a Friday, this place had a pretty good amount of people, which is always nice. They sat us at a very cute table against the stone brick wall, which felt a little secluded and I liked that. It's like we were tucked away. It looks like they have two bars which is pretty cool. Bar menu and happy hour: the drinks and the fries were excellent. I will go back just for that. And let me tell you, white creamy mayo stuff freaks me out, but I was able to suck up and deal because the truffle fries were that good. And my french martini was excellent. Where the Tavern went awry: In addition to the fries, we ordered mahi mahi tacos and I could smell them the second they came to the table. And it was not a good smell. I took a bite and it tasted fine, but the smell was overwhelmingly bad. I'm honestly surprised it got past the cook and the waiters. So, we just passed on that and waited for our entrees. My entree was very good - I ordered the duck with mushrooms and gnocchi. This gnocchi wasn't typical, it was fried and wasn't very potatoey but I'm not complaining - it was delicious. My boyfriends entree on the other hand was pretty bizarre. When he ordered the short ribs he was given the choice of 5 different "sauces", the last one being a mushroom sauce. But when he got his entree there was no sauce, just some meat and mushrooms on the side. It was dry! But here is the most bizarre part... these were not short ribs. I have cooked short ribs 50+ times in my life. This was more like slices of pot roast. Albeit, the meat was tender and well-seasoned, but it really could have used some kind of gravy. So take from my review what you will. The place has potential but maybe you just have to order the right thing. I would stick with the drinks, the bar food and stay away from the seafood...
(3)Gnomer B.
Like many others who wrote a glowing review of Black Horse's happy hour, I too am a fan. I came in last Friday night for the first time and met two friends at the bar. This place is QUAINT AS HELL. If you like quaint taverns, with a historic feel, you will get that here. The decor is lovely; the back wall of the bar is stone. STONE, YOU HEAR ME? Being all colonial and shit. Love me some stone walls. Anyway, the happy hour prices are fantastic for Newtown. $3 pints? Yes, please, I will have all the beers. My friends ordered some truffle fries, which were also discounted for happy hour, and I tasted them and immediately got a raging food boner. The two bartender dudes on staff were attentive and friendly, and refilled our beers promptly despite how packed it was getting in there. The crowd was of the older sort, but very upbeat and friendly people. Like hanging out with your parents cool friends, if your parents have cool friends. Mine don't. As we were leaving the owner was shaking everyone's hands and thanking them for coming. I didn't realize he had tried to shake mine until after I had breezed on by, snubbing the poor guy. SORRY MANG. I'll do better next time, and will certainly frequent your establishment again.
(4)Neil G.
My wife and I came here for dinner on a Friday night. It's located in a town called Newtown PA, which I am not very familiar with but seems very nice. Upon walking in, we realized we must have walked through the wrong entrance. We walked through the bar and found the hostess at the entrance we should have come in on. At first we were kind of worried that the only formal seating was in the bar area because 1) There weren't that many tables, and 2) The bar was very crowded, and kind of loud. Not a bad thing, and what you would expect from a bar on a Friday night, just not the atmosphere we were looking for on our date night out. After finding the hostess, we were pleasantly surprised that they have a whole other floor for formal dining. Very different atmosphere from downstairs, exactly what we were looking for. Nice, quiet, ambiance, etc... We were given the option to sit by the window which was nice, and shortly after we were greeted by our fantastic waitress Guyel (I know I mispelled that, sorry Guyel). She took our drink order and notified us that we still have 20 minutes for Happy Hour pricing. If you've read any of my reviews, you know I'm a big beer guy. $3 for anything on draft, and that included craft beers. This is the best deal I've seen in a long time. I ended up ordering 2 dogfish head 60 minute ipas. Everything was going great until we found out they removed the only vegetarian entree on the menu which my wife, being vegetarian, was planning on ordering. We obviously have to be very mindful of where we are eating because of her dietary constraint and always look up menus online before we chose a place to eat at. She ended up having to order a few vegetarian appetizers, the hummus plate and vege dumplings. The hummus was just ok, not much flavor. The dumplings on the other hand were probably the best vege dumplings I've ever eaten. I think she regrets not ordering two of them. My dinner on the other hand was fantastic. I ordered the Scottish Salmon and Crab Cake Entree and I was very happy with my decision. The Salmon sat on a bead of mashed potatoes, broccoli rabe and a crab cake with some type white sauce which really made the dish. Salmon was cooked to perfection, portion was just right. It was a $22 dish, but I say well worth the money. I can honestly say it was one of the best dinners I've eaten in a while. Overall, I think the service was great, food was amazing, I just hope they add one or more vegetarian entrees to the menu. That would definitely keep us coming back.
(4)Joan M.
Took my husband parents there. We had a groupon which was a very good deal. Upon arriving we had eight o'clock reservation we were seated immediatly taken to our table where we we're greeted by the owner which was a very nice touch. The server was very nice food totally amazing. After dinner we went into the piano room for a after dinner drink which was really nice too. Overall excellent experience. We definitely will be back with or without a groupon.
(5)Donna K.
Seated at 8:30. Cesar's salads not served til 9:15. Did not see waiter until then. Steak was served raw. Had to send back and it came back mid rare when order med well. Potatoes were disgusting left the worst after taste. Veggies were definitely frozen. Out of multiple dishes on the menu. Restaurant is filthy. Will not come back. Ever.
(1)Aasima A.
We have been to downtown Newtown a few times before but that was for the best ice cream! this time, we were hungry and wanted actual food. We checked Yelp and sauntered into the Black Horse Tavern. The inside is really charming, with nice exposed brick walls, and wood staircase, etc. There weren't to many people at the bar but we chose to sit at a table. Ordered a few things and then the afterwork/ regular crowd started filling up the place. As I looked around though I couldn't help but notice THERE IS NO DIVERSITY. All the patrons there looked the same: same polo/ collared short and khacki shorts or jean and some type of sandal or sneaker. No one of color, no one from any other socio-economic group. It didn't make me uncomfortable, because I for one love trying new things and because the servers and bartender were great and didn't make me feel any type of way, but was weird in a Twilight Zone kind of way. The food was decent, just small portions. We had to get extra appetizers at the end of our dinner because most of us were still hungry. Over all was cool to finally get inside and see what the hype was, but i don't know if we'll go back unless out of nessesity. Decent place, but the small portions and high prices are not warranted. Maybe the crows is differrent later in the evening or on the weekend.
(2)Sarah S.
Formerly "The Grotto" ..... Great happy hour place and good for live music on the weekends too. I'm a regular here and love the atmosphere. However, I have not had a meal here in a while so I can't speak for the eats
(4)Gerrianne M.
I've been here twice so far, and both times with my "fellow mom friends", for a kid-free, husband-free night out. The first time, we stumbled into Black Horse Tavern because it was nearby and it had a live band. Someone had a 50th birthday party there that night, so it was very crowded. I wasn't sure if it was unique to that night, but the place definitely had an older crowd. The second time, we chose Black Horse Tavern because we had a Groupon and it turned out to be a great deal. The food, however, was not so great. Most of the items on the menu sounded delicious! You could order anything from pasta, to hamburgers, to eggrolls, to fajitas. I should have known this was strange to have such a wide variety of menu items in a bar/ tavern/ restaurant. I was torn between the vodka riggatoni and a hamburger. I was in the mood for a good burger, and didn't think I could go wrong in this place. Well, I was wrong. It wasn't great, and was regretting my choice, but my friend had ordered the vodka rigs and they had absolutely NO TASTE! I was so disappointed. The atmosphere is pretty nice though, the bar and open space for the band/ dancing is on the main level. Upstairs is the private piano bar area and the restaurant. It was perfect for the night we had planned, because we could sit upstairs for as long as we wanted to chat, without being disrupted by the band,etc. The only down side to that was, we were seated right next to the bathroom. There is only 1 restroom for each gender, and for some reason, both had lines all night long, or at least throughout our dinner. It was distracting because the line kept creeping into our table. After that, we ventured downstairs to check out the band, which was pretty good and played a variety of music. The crowd was diverse in ages, from folks in their 50's to 40's, and then us in our 30's, however it seemed that we were the youngest ones there. So overall, this play was just Ehhhh... in my opinion.
(2)John B.
My wife and daughter stopped in here after skiing and heading to King of Prussia to meet friends. We had totally forgotten it was Valentine's day, but it was late enough that the crowd was thinning out. We picked this place totally randomly and were glad we did. It was very pleasant surprise. They had to clear a few tables but we didn't wait long to be seated, The waitress was friendly and attentive (despite the couple next to us that wanted to talk her ear off) I started with their own lager and I have to say it was exceptional. Nothing fancy, not overly hoppy, just real good beer. My wife and I both had salads, her was the house special and mine was basically a Caesar salad but the just called it something else. Plates were cold and greens were crisp with just the right amount of dressing. (the only thing I would add is it would've been great to have some fresh ground pepper) Our entrées were all really good and were all part of the V-day menu. I had Chipotle glazed meatloaf with cheddar mashed potatoes. It was really one of the best meatloafs I had ever had. My wife had a filet and it was cooked spot on midrare. Nothing fancy here either, just a very nice steak. My daughter chose the butter poached lobster with gnocchi and thought it was outstanding as well and beautifully presented. I don't get to this area much since I live in Baltimore but if I do, I would surely go there again. Oh and no one seemed to mind that we were all in sweats and looking like bums with our hat hair so I guess casual would be how I would describe it.
(4)Sean K.
Terrific happy hour! Great beer and wine specials and friendly bartenders...the owner is there a lot and makes sure everyone is happy...a really good thing! The Dark Horse burger...the bride and I...who've had them all over the country...rate the house burger as number one...a bit expensive but worth every penny!
(5)Dave T.
This is a solid place with a good happy hour. They have a good beer selection, although not as good as isaacs, their food is lightyears better. Great decor and a good place to have drinks and have a meal. The flatbreads and truffle fries are tasty, and are half off during happy hour. They also have some other good stuff like lamb meatballs, and beef shortrib sandwich but i didn't see it on the menu last time i was there. The menu does change frequently, which isn't necessarily a bad thing! I'm not sure what the previous reviewer meant about the vibe being forced, but it's pretty fun when i go there.
(4)M R.
I made a reservation in mid-January for dinner for 4 and was very excited to try Black Horse. The menu looked promising, however, I will never know. When we arrived at Black Horse, we stood in the entry for about 5 minutes before being acknowledged. Then we were told to move to the bar area. When I mentioned to the host that we had a reservation he replied with 'That's nice, darlin', but some people are as considerate [to the fact] that you have a reservation and its going to be awhile.' First of all, don't call me 'darlin'' and use such a snide tone. Secondly, Black Horse had my phone number. Why didn't they call to tell me that there was a delay? We left and had an amazing dinner at Duck Sauce.
(1)janis k.
This restaurant has been in business for three years and we finally decided to try it . We were greeted by the friendly owner and immediately felt like we were off to a good start. Unfortunately it went downhill after that. It took 20 minutes to be seated even though there were three empty tables. Service was perfunctory - no one came a single time to ask if we needed anything. We finally had to track down our server to get the check. The food came out tepid but because it took an hour and we were starved we were afraid to send it back. The portions were microscopic and we felt hungry when we left. All in all we were very disappointed.
(2)Wise C.
Pretty average. Visited with a co-worker to grab dinner, each ordered steak which was way over cooked. Salads were nothing special. Over priced for what you get.
(3)Lauren D.
I know we're only in April, but I can tell you that my dinner here was the best I've had all year. I can't tell you how many times I've walked away from restaurants wondering how chefs could serve some of the meals that have arrived at my table. Not here. Chef Foga makes his meal with one key ingredient: love. My husband had previously posted to Yelp that he would like more vegetarian meals - Chef actually replied to his post and requested that we ask for him so that he could make a special dinner. Last night we were out with our 3 month old, which I know can spell disaster for many restaurateurs - we were so warmly welcomed by the owner, staff and other patrons that it immediately made us feel good just being in the restaurant. Gaelle, the host, went out of her way to find a baby-friendly table. On our rare night out, we were of course interested in libations right away. BHT has a healthy selection of craft and mega-brewery beers (not to mention martinis and wine). The Franzsikaner was extremely fresh and the Naked Brewing Co's Pomegranate Hefe so refreshing. Dan, our friendly and genuinely kind waiter, obliged us with the complete list from memory (although a written menu might be helpful too) - so many great options. For our appetizer, we had the mushroom flatbread. I generally like this appetizer when I've had it elsewhere, but this one sets the standard for all others going forward - nice meaty mushrooms on top of a mild but tasty cheese - on the perfectly crisp yet soft flatbread. No pre-fabricated appetizer feeling here - seriously freshly made and would be perfect for just a night of drinks and appetizers. Chef did not disappoint on our entrees. Sight unseen, I agreed to try whatever he made. I can't even generalize my meal as a stir-fry, because that wouldn't do it justice. The meal had carrots, asparagus, tomatoes, red cabbage, tofu and penne all perfectly chopped and topped with a soy marinade. It's one of those meals that you feel great after you eat it because it's not only tasty but healthy as well. If I hit Mega Millions, I will be hiring Robert Foga as my personal chef. After dinner, Chef even asked me to call a day or so ahead and he would get whatever ingredients were needed for another special vegetarian meal! My husband had the Scottish salmon and crab cake dinner. I can tell that this is one of the menu's signature dishes. At $22, it's a bargain - the nice-sized portions of fish look extremely fresh -- by the way, the crab cake is all crab. I won't repeat my husband's previous post, but it was yet again a terrific meal. If you're looking for an extra special night out, strongly consider Black Horse Tavern. You'll have a fabulous meal made with love in a very warm setting.
(5)Jessica F.
The food was very mediocre and very over priced service was bad. Sorry but would not recommend it.
(2)Melissa L.
This place has improved dramatically, nice place for drinks and appetizers especially. There seafood was really good and fresh. They have a nice selection on tap and a old rustic feel. Bar isn't huge but comfy.
(4)Monet E.
My beginning words to you and my friends are: Truffle Fries. Okay, so now that I have that out of the way, I must say that their Happy Hour is amazing, with $3.00 beers, $4.00 glasses of wine, and $5.00 martinis. Since, I am a major beer drinker, I go there for the $3.00 pints of beer and enjoy myself each time. The last time that I went, I met a really cool male bartender, it was during the week. Yesterday (Saturday) I went for their happy hour with two other friends who have never been, and was waited on by two rather lovely female bartenders. One was nicer than the other, but overall the customer service was pretty good. I love the hometown feel and the co-owner Michael came out and welcomed me and my friends to his restaurant. He and I had some great conversations about travel, beer, food, etc. That conversation added even more to the already homey/pleasant environment. So, yesterday I had my truffle fries (of course), the chicken tamale, and a piece of the mushroom flat bread, which were all very cheap (happy hour prices). I am in love with this place. If you are looking for an happy hour which is Mon-Fri with various delish beers on tap, good wine, and strong martinis, and truffle fries to die for, then The Black Horse Tavern is the place to be!!!
(5)Mike T.
We went to this restaurant on Saturday the 12th. The WORST experience that I have EVER had. Here is why: -They were running 30 minutes late for our reservation. -Bar was out of MANY beers - Including staples such as Coors Light, Miller Lite and Guiness. -People at the bar told us "good luck trying to order a drink". -When we finally sat at our table, we were then given two different menus. -The Server came and was very dejected when he had to tell us that they were out of Filet, Samon, Flank Steak as well as some other entrees. -That waiter was pleased that we asked to speak with the manager because "they are on the front lines all night". -At that we decided to leave. -We asked for the manager - who was snarky, CURSED and gave us a false name. -DO NOT GO TO THIS RESTAURANT! We thought that they had potential but simply do not care!
(1)David S.
We absolutely love this place! It has a great tavern vibe to it, has a great happy hour, and when the owner is there, he shakes every customer's hand and thanks them for coming. The food is quite good, granted we have only eaten happy hour food, and very reasonable in price (again, happy hour prices). He also does a ten or so question trivia in the evening and if you get a question right, you get a free drink. Great vibe, good people, good food, and good booze...what more can you ask for?
(5)Joe L.
Although the menu doesn't have many offerings, everything on it is delicious that I have tried so far. The flatbreads are good, but not as good as the pizzas used to be. Go with a burger and some truffle fries and you won't be disappointed. As far as staff go, the bartenders are all very nice. The owner is usually strolling around making sure everyone is taken care of. I have never been seated at a table, so I am not sure how the wait staff is.
(4)Jooj S.
This bar/restaurant has terrible service. Our server at the bar was downright rude; I believe her name was Christina. Bumping into us, dirty looks and stares, clearing drinks, and ignoring us....pretty much the opposite of what a server/bartender should be. Christina needs to find another job because she is scaring away the customers.
(1)Theresa H.
Had a Groupon for one appetizer or flatbread and two entrees, so had to try this place. I had been there once before just for drinks during happy hour, but we didn't eat any food. Happy hour drink prices are good, but both times I was there, they were out of a lot of the craft beers on tap. At dinner on a Tuesday early evening, the waitresses excuse for that was that they get their kegs on Tuesdays. Well, it was 6:30 p.m. When were you going to tap them? AND, the time I went for happy hour, it was a Saturday! So what was the reason then? So dinner on Tuesday didn't start off so well. Made a reservation on-line, but upon arrival there was no one at the hostess stand - it just said seat yourself. We wanted to eat upstairs, but no one was there. We came back downstairs and there was only one tiny table available (the others had "reserved" signs on them - was one of them supposed to be mine?! no way of knowing since no one was there to tell us!). Finally, someone saw us standing there and I asked if we could sit upstairs. He said "upstairs is closed." So, since it was just the two of us we chose the tiny table (it is a very small area and very noisy with the bar in there). It took quite a while for a waitress to come over and take our drink order. Then it took even longer to get the drinks because she was also bartending! Had I caught on to that sooner, I would have gone up to the bar to get them myself. Food was just so-so. The flatbread was decent, but pretty small. It definitely would not have been worth the $11 had I been paying full price. My husband liked the fisherman's trio entree (I didn't try it). I had the rib-eye and it was only so-so. It was cooked properly, but it wasn't very flavorful other than way too much salt on the meat and side dishes. Again, not horrible - but definitely neither would have been worth the full menu price. Alas, it then took our waitress another looooong time to bring our second drink and another looooooooong time to bring our check. The place was crowded - so why do they have a waitress doing double duty as bartender?? Anyway, we ended up taking our check up to the bar to pay so we didn't have to wait any longer. Bottom line - I would only ever go here again for drinks at happy hour, and possibly the trio of appetizers that everyone seemed to be getting, which looked decent though I don't know what the price was. Lousy service and mediocre food.
(2)Milo Y.
Cool ambiance. Owner cool with the handshakes, way over priced for the crab cake and the fish and chips for what you would expect. Quality excellent, but not one of a kind to support the price of the food.
(3)Jerry W.
The highlight was the owner coming out to greet us. We arrived without a reservation on a Saturday night. The hostess seemed aggravated that we just walked in. She sat is by the kitchen door in the bar area. We asked the server to move us and he did. The Asian lettuce wrap was tasty, but super modest. Not worth the $9 price. In general, we felt a little underwhelmed. The owner was nice, but I would not go again. Sorry.
(2)Jim G.
Amazing food! My family stopped by at around 5:15 on a Thursday night. We ordered the truffle fries and they were the most amazing fries that we ever had! They tasted like sour cream and onion with a touch of garlic with shredded cheese on top. I will be dreaming about them until next time. We also ordered the Fisherman's trio. Everything was delicious....scallops, crabcake and mahi mahi on mashed potatoes drizzled with a lemon butter sauce. The only reason I am giving it a four star is because the dinner portion was very small for $24 and did not come with salad or bread. We also had the pig wings and if you like hot buffalo sauce and ginger together, then this is for you. It was a perfect explosion of both in your mouth. I loved it, family did not. The drinks were great as well. I ordered a chocolate martini which was only $6 for happy hour. Overall, the food was great, the atmosphere was extremely cozy and charming inside. It was dim but I loved that! Will return :))
(4)Charlie S.
The Black Horse is a great place to come for Happy Hour and to hang out with the after-work "professional" crowd. The bars are classy and the food is great. The menu is always changing and they have some really interesting plates. As far as Newtown goes, this place has some of the best music. Sometimes they bring in jazz bands and other nights they bring in somebody with an acoustic guitar. Either way, it's a great atmosphere that's always full of locals and visitors alike. It has a one-of-kind ambience that shouldn't be missed if you are in the area.
(5)Derek Z.
Great service. Cool atmosphere. Good food. I like tapped style. Get the fries.
(4)Susan V.
I agree with Dave T. The happy hour here is one of the best I've found in the Newtown area and I could eat the truffle fries for breakfast, lunch or dinner. They have something like 20 beers on tap, which is enough for me. Issacs has more beer options but I've never had a good meal there. If you haven't been to The Black Horse Tavern in the last month or so, I suggest you try the "new" happy hour. It runs from Mon-Sat from 5-7 pm. I really like the revolutionary vibe, too.
(4)Corinna G.
We were in Newtown unexpectedly, unfamiliar with the restaurants of the town. We happened upon The Black Horse Tavern and were unexpectedly surprised at the wonderful food and service. The owner went to each table to welcome everyone. Our waiter was excellent from beginning to end. We both got specials. One got the "Three Way Ribs" which were melt in your mouth ribs prepared three totally different ways. One of us got a seafood pot with a potato soup base. Appetizers were fabulous, perfect portion size, crazy unique area beers as well as the usual. The building is old and needs some improvements but it has that old tavern charm a new building will never have. Very friendly, helpful staff. We'll definitely go back.
(5)Will C.
The fries are amazing and wild mushroom flatbread is awesome! Happy hour is the way to go. Perfect for a snack and drink.
(4)Mathew M.
Not sure why this place is called tapas. Me and my wife went to have some tapas but there was no tapas menu. Maybe something changed? We basically had bar food - wings and truffle fries. It was okay. Pretty loud place as they have live music both upstairs and downstairs. Might be a good place to go for drinks but not for tapas as I was expecting.
(3)Pablo G.
I've been to this place a few times and live in Newtown. It has never been my scene but I thought I should yelp a review. The bartender assumed I had a few drinks in me and decided to substitute a single for a ten when returning my change. I will not be returning.
(1)Veronica K.
I'll preface this by saying I'm only reviewing the bar here; I've never ate any of their food. That being said I really do love this place! Sometimes I'll be in Newtown, usually catching dinner or just walking around, and this is a great little place to stumble into. The interior is dimly lit, but they often have candles on tables which gives it a slightly romantic feel. Their draft list is pretty decent, they have some macros, a few high profile crafts like Sam Adams, and also a bunch of rotating crafts. Every time I go I get to try some interesting brews. Believe me when I say this place is a great last stop for a night out. Just watch out for some of the regulars, a few of them have been a little too boisterous.
(4)Paul L.
Haven't been back in a few months. My wife's wine was definitely old as it tasted like vinegar. The menu used to be much bigger and really delicious. Really disappointed in the menu and quality. Just didn't care to go back. I guess the bar scene would be ok if you want a small local area on a weekend night.
(1)Melissa M.
We were here for their hurricane party in August which was the first time since the menu change. I have to say I thoroughly enjoyed the food. There were a couple choices I think we didn't care for but nothing that deserves a negative review. The service was great and the drinks were spot on as well. We were surprised at the crowd that arrived around nine when the dj started. We couldn't help but get up and join them. It was a great evening! We look forward to going back very soon.
(4)Lolly G.
I moved to New Town about 4 months ago and this was the first bar I went to. I've been hooked since. The happy hour is an awesome deal with great drink specials. If you are a beer drinker you will find some really awesome beers on tap. The food is what makes Black Horse stand out from other bars in the area. It's delicious, fresh, and unique dishes. As a vegetarian, I find it difficult to find places to eat but not here. A favorite of mine is the tofu tacos (that you don't have to be a vegetarian to love) as well as the amazing flat breads. I've tried a few things off of their new menu and they've all been delicious. I am here at least once a week and have told many people to try to it out. Issacs is a competitor across the way but only because of their beer selection. The environment doesn't come close and their food is not good. The only complaint I would have is that one of the bartenders was rude to my group once, but we now avoid her.
(5)Henry C S.
I've been here for many a happy hour and I do agree that it's not bad for drinks. However, the service is spotty unless you're sitting at the bar. They say they feature free apps during HH but it consisted of a small bowl of guac and salsa stuck on a barrel in a corner of the front bar with an ever empty plate of what looked like pita bread. I ordered the beet salad for $8 and it was a total waste. It was about 10 small bites of salad...worth half the price. If nothing else sit around and listen to the beautiful people talk about why they're beautiful.
(2)emily c.
I ate here once. I will maybe eat here again. I went for food and not to hang out at a bar, so my review of this place is as an eatery (though I did wash my meal down with an Allagash White which they have on tap alongside some other choice quaffs). I ordered the beet salad and the fish tacos. I wish I had ordered 2 of each- not because they were so good, because they were so small. My server gave me prior warning by suggesting I order 3 dishes, but I was still surprised to see such small plates of food. Fortunately, I'm not fond of stuffing my face silly when I dine, though I can imagine some people may get the feeling they are being ripped off here. I kinda think, when I'm not eating in NYC, a $9 beet salad ought to fulfill a small meal requirement, as should $9 fish tacos. Where taste is concerned, I thought the beet salad was rather lovely- fresh greens and tender beets. My tacos left me wanting the fish more seasoned (and less fishy tasting) and more lime flavor in the lime cream, or served with a wedge of lime for squeezing, and at least a spoonful of seasoned rice. I thought the meal arrived a tad late, but then I feel like I'm being too picky. Besides, the servers were attentive to clearing empty plates, and filling empty glasses. The decor is historic with a modern facelift, pleasantly done, with adequately dimmed lighting. I would come here to to hang out for the bar, and maybe to try the food again.
(2)Robyn V.
I had a great experience here. I saw the deal they offered on groupon so i figured i'd give it a try. i went during happy hour so the drinks were very reasonably priced and the food was really very tasty. i had the truffle fries and the duck and my niece had the chicken pasta dish. then, when the server heard it was my neice's birthday he brought out a humongous slice of the chocolate peanut butter cake for free, even though we were already using a groupon. (the cake was incredibly delicious, especially with the chocolate martini.) definitely going back here and think the prices are fair for the portions and quality of the food you get.
(4)Betina L.
This is a nice place for happy hour Good atmosphere very inexpensive beer The owner is super friendly and does Friday trivia with free drinks for participants
(4)Jelyn F.
The only times I've been here are for Happy Hour. Their half price menu is awesome... the Pig Wings alone make it all worth while.
(4)Roberta R.
This is not the restaurant of old, don't let the quaint exterior fool you. The stodgy Newtown of the 1990s is thankfully long gone and this is the place to be for good bar food, conversation with the neighbors, jazz upstairs, sports on three tvs downstairs and the best DJ in town in back. For outdoor dining, get there early, the courtyard is small but well worth the wait on a nice Fall day. Don't forget to try the pork wings and fries, they will not disappoint. Regardless of age or musical preferences, this is the place to be every weekend, starting with the jazz on Wednesday right through to the piano bar and dance party on Saturday night. Don't miss it. For a quiet meal, go earlier. For a good light dinner, go any time before the grill closes, I think some time after 10 which is usually when the upstairs piano bar closes and the dance party downstairs really gets going.
(5)