Before I set foot into the new Frogg Pond (3 S. First St.), I harbored a few doubts about the altered atmosphere and reconstruction that had been in the process for the last several months. I feared that these changes would forever alter the attitude and soul of this establishment that I keep close to my heart. Luckily, all of my fears were for nothing. As I walked in the door I found people conversing, music playing, waiters hustling and bustling, and the same overall attitude and happy-go-lucky atmosphere that were present when I last visited.

I was greeted with warm graces and smiles and given a short tour of the new pub room and kitchen facilities. For those who always loved the Frogg Pond but longed for some space away from the action you now can dine in the pub room without being over-stimulated by all the sounds, yet without any feelings of detachment from the overall mood of the barroom. Longtime customers and friends will be happy to know that the kitchen and plumbing has been completely renewed and renovated as well. Another bonus to the cosmetic surgery has been the removal of the notorious carpet that either kept you away or made you fall in love with the Pond. Patrons and fans will be pleased to know that there are now a total of 120 seats and 15 additional bar seats. Essentially, The Frogg Pond has always flourished under the maxim: the more the merrier.

Jonathan was my alluring guest this night and we were both greeted by Tommy, who was to be our waiter for the evening. Note to those who like eye candy: Tommy is a real catch as well as being a personable and speedy waiter. I was happy to see that the new menu retained many of the Pond’s mainstays, notably, the assorted wings. Our expeditious and friendly waiter mentioned that by the grand opening June 10th the menu will have been expanded to include many more appetizers, entrees and sandwiches. This was great news for me as I always had an appreciation for this establishment’s unpretentious options, but always longed for a few more choices.

The crab dip and the spinach and artichoke dip are the two appetizers that appealed to my guest and me. Both selections not only have hearty consistencies but are also flavorful and chock full of the stated ingredients, with each served in a filling bread bowl. The appetizers in general range from those that are petite to grand. If you have never tried their wings they are some of the best in town. You’ll truly be satisfied with a beer from the Frogg Pond’s diverse selection that compliments these wings.

For dinner Jonathan opted for the special of the night: the pork tenderloin coated with cherries and their sweet glaze. Not only was the meat moist, tender and thick but it was well complimented by the sauce which made it a very filling meal for one. The entree that spoke to me was the chicken topped with crab and hollandaise sauce. The presentation was accented by asparagus which was placed beneath the immense portion, and was a fantastic combination of seafood. All together, dining at the The Frogg Pond Tavern left Jonathan and me extremely sated. No room for dessert!

The food and service are added bonuses to The Frogg Pond’s well known personality and atmosphere. This down to earth tavern is also a consistent provider of various entertainments throughout the year. Beginning on June 10th, which is the official opening day ceremony, through the following weekend there will be performances by no fewer than or five bands (Red Letter Day, Electric Velvet, Jodi-Lynn, to name a few) as well as plenty of giveaways and prizes. There is also Karaoke on Thursdays and Sundays; an open band mic on Mondays, DJs Chris Mal and Wil on Tuesdays and Wednesdays; and bands performing throughout the weekends. To stay updated and to view the new and improved menu, visit www.thefroggpond.com for information on performance dates and special prize and promotions nights.

More than ever I know that I will be visiting The Frogg Pond to enjoy and make use of the additional space, try the extended entree and appetizer choices, and soak up the ambience provided by the glow of the patrons, friends, and longtime supporters who call this uniquely special bar a home away from home.