Decided to give the Lodge a try so I bought a coupon. Wanted to sit on the patio because it was the perfect night for it, but it was packed. A good sign. The inside was pretty full too so we headed for the dining room in the back (as opposed to the front bar area) and got a great table--half booth with chairs. So far so good. Ordered Moscow Mule as a drink and while it tasted good, I didn't think it was strong enough. Mules usually pack a punch but this one didn't. Ordered mac and cheese as an appetizer and to my surprise it was tasty. (I had asked the waitress if it was out of a box and she had said no). It was nowhere near how good mine is, but it was good enough that I would order it again. It had the back drop taste of some jalapeƱos that gave it a really good taste. Ordered the fish sandwich with cheese and tartar sauce. It was ample and freshly made. Came with waffle fries which had to be re-fried because they were much too light in color--I hate when fries are not cooked enough. They have to be brown and crispy--that's what fries are all about. Hubby had the "Smokey Burger" without the cheese and sweet potato fries. He had asked for it medium rare but it came out medium to medium well. It is really hard for cooks to make a burger medium rare. I think they are afraid that people will get sick. So hubby had his freshly made burger and totally enjoyed the sweet potato fries. They were really good and most restaurants up charge for these fries. Glad they don't. Glasses were always filled with water and wait staff were attentive enough considering a packed house. So my rating is going to give them a pass on the cooking of the burger because of the welcoming atmosphere and the good value of the food. Prices are very reasonable.
BTW, and last but not least... NO WHINING CHILDREN ANYWHERE!!! Oh my god. I so enjoyed having a meal where I don't have to listen to crying, whiny kids and parents who ignore it while the rest of us have to listen.