John Harvard's Brew House
2093 Smithaven Plaza Lake Grove, NY 631-979-2739
The area surrounding the Smith Haven Mall is full of chain restaurants, many of them high-end, yet one of the standout places to eat remains John Harvard’s—part of a small chain as well. Frequently busy and popular with a crowd ranging in age from teen to seniors, the American gastropub menu offers openers of salads, sliders and other familiar comfort foods -- such as nachos, wings and quesadillas. Entrées get a bit more interesting, with edible opportunities like the Smoked Buffalo Mac N’ Cheese -- pasta dressed with smoked chicken, seasoned bread crumbs and gorgonzola cream. Burgers and sandwiches are also available, as is pot pie, grilled meatloaf and fish-and-chips. Desserts include chocolate cobbler, apple crisp and butterscotch bread pudding.
Hours: 11:30 a.m.-10 p.m. Daily. (Bar stays open later.) Reservations: Not Accepted Credit cards: Accepted Accessibility: YesPhoto credit: Photo by John Griffin | The grilled meatloaf with mashed potatoes, asparagus, onion strings is topped with red wine gravy at John Harvard's Brew House in Lake Grove. (February 13, 2009)
I was at John Harvard’s Brew House, next to the Smith Haven Mall in Lake Grove. It's a place where, some of the time, you can actually view the brewing process.
There was nothing being brewed last night (except, perhaps, some coffee). My dinner began with a special of hummus and pita. The hummus was decent enough, but the pita was virtually frozen stiff. An apologetic waitress took it back to the kitchen, returning with warmed triangles.
An entree of chicken sauteed with rosemary with basmati rice and broccoli was simple and pretty good. Best was a sampler of 5 brews for only $5.99. My favorites? The Long Island light and the stout.
This is a popular spot, one for which I've always had mixed feelings; they remain pretty much the same.
John Harvard's. Honest Food. Real Beer.
John Harvard’s boasts an extensive list of brews, ranging from the tried and true All American Light Lager to the rich, roasted Dry Irish Stout. In addition, we carry a full-line of seasonal brews, so you’re sure to find the perfect beer any time of year. When you come to John Harvard’s, please check with your server to find out what specialty beers are available, as well. Our award winning brewers offer a range of beer styles from around the world.


John Harvard's Brew House
