Nestled in the Borough of Avis, the Oak Grove Tavern, affectionately known as Dave and Ruby’s Oak Grove Tavern, embodies the spirit of community and warmth. Echoing the beloved sitcom “Cheers,” this establishment is a place where everyone feels like they belong, and newcomers quickly become friends.
“People love the atmosphere. They come and sit. A lot of people refer to that show “Cheers“, where everybody knows what everybody’s about and if you don’t, you’ll be friends by the time you leave,” shares Dave Harkey, who co-owns and runs the tavern with his wife, Ruby. This welcoming environment isn’t just for patrons; it extends to their staff, making it a place where you might find appealing Family Fare Jobs within the local hospitality scene.
Steeped in local history, the building itself dates back to the 1800s, originally serving as the Oak Grove Pharmacy. Intriguingly, remnants of its past life remain, with pharmacy cabinetry still gracing the bar area. Through the Prohibition era, it operated as Josephine’s Restaurant before embracing its destiny as a tavern post-Prohibition, initially named Pond’s Tavern. It secured the borough’s first and only liquor license, a distinction it holds to this day. Later renamed Oak Grove Tavern by a subsequent owner, the Harkeys maintained the moniker when they took over in 2017, though for many locals, it will always be Dave and Ruby’s.
Dave, having retired the same year they purchased the tavern, focuses on the culinary aspects, while Ruby expertly manages the bar and the front-of-house operations. Dave’s passion for food service is deeply rooted. “I’ve always cooked for veterans my whole life. I used to work for Blasie’s as a service manager and I always cooked for those guys. It’s just something I’ve always done,” Dave explains. His experience also includes managing food service at the Clinton County Correctional facility, making his transition to tavern ownership a natural progression after early retirement at 55.
Ruby and Dave Harkey, owners of the Oak Grove Tavern on East Central Avenue in Avis, stand proudly in their establishment, showcasing the warm and inviting atmosphere of this family-friendly tavern and potential family fare jobs location.
The journey hasn’t been without its challenges. Tragically, just weeks after opening, Dave was severely injured in a motorcycle accident, facing ongoing health struggles. Despite this, their commitment to the tavern and community remains unwavering.
While the Oak Grove Tavern serves alcohol, its heart is firmly set on being a family-oriented establishment. Tuesdays transform the tavern into a vibrant hub with live bands on the patio, weather permitting, complemented by an outdoor seafood buffet. “We have seating for 160 to 200 people outside. Our bands usually run from 6 to 9 (p.m.),” Dave mentions, emphasizing the family-friendly timing. “We’re not a bar, per se. We have a liquor license, but we’re 80 per cent food. Just that kind of atmosphere,” he clarifies, highlighting its appeal beyond just a typical bar scene, and hinting at various family fare jobs roles centered around food service.
The Harkeys have thoughtfully expanded the outdoor space, creating three patios and a parking area to accommodate larger gatherings. A portable stage hosts musical acts, moving indoors during colder months. Inside, the tavern comfortably seats 50 guests. The kitchen has also seen significant expansion, now boasting two fully operational kitchens and a prep kitchen, reflecting their commitment to quality food service.
Beyond the tavern, Dave and Ruby have successfully ventured into off-site catering, a testament to their growing business. Currently, Oak Grove Tavern employs 18 individuals, including family members, further solidifying its family fare jobs aspect within the local community. They cater to a wide range of events, from intimate birthday celebrations to large-scale retirement parties, serving anywhere from ten to a thousand guests.
Food enthusiasts flock to Dave and Ruby’s for their renowned prime rib and steak, especially on Wednesdays. Seafood lovers are drawn to Tuesday’s seafood boils and live music during the summer. Wing aficionados mark Thursdays and Saturdays, while Fridays are dedicated to haddock sandwiches and dinners, alongside other seafood delights. Sundays offer comforting home-cooked meals, with rotating specials like beef tips and mashed potatoes or meatloaf and stuffing. “Every Sunday is something different,” Dave adds. Daily specials are also a regular feature, with updates available on the tavern’s Facebook page.
So, what makes Dave and Ruby’s Oak Grove Tavern a must-visit? “For the atmosphere,” Dave states definitively, adding, “our prices are fair and the food is great.” It’s more than just a meal; it’s an experience, possibly even a career opportunity for those seeking family fare jobs in a welcoming environment.
Located at 206 East Central Ave., Avis, the tavern welcomes guests from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Tuesdays, noon to 8 p.m. on Sundays, and 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday. They are closed on Mondays.
