1484 State Route 9, Lake George
Food 4 C’s (out of 5)
Service 4.5 C’s
Family friendliness 4 C’s
Although we usually think of Lake George as a summer destination, we recently had dinner at the Log Jam Restaurant just south of the main strip in town and enjoyed our experience enough to make excuses to visit in any season. The Log Jam is located close to the Factory Outlets of Lake George (bonus!).
We arrived on a Sunday evening expecting a full house (the parking lot is usually packed during the summer), but we were pleasantly surprised to find no wait for a table. The cozy atmosphere combined with the friendly greeting by the hostess instantly worked their magic, and despite the lack of snow outside, we felt like we were entering a safe haven from a storm. The lighting was just bright enough to showcase the rustic surroundings: wood floors, log walls and several stone fireplaces.
We were greeted warmly by our waitress and ordered a round of drinks and an appetizer to share. There was a large selection of wine and beer from which Mom decided to try the Log Jam Brown Ale, brewed nearby at Davidson Brothers Brewing Company. It arrived with our Bubbly Shrimp appetizer ($7.25), a hot escargot plate of shrimp morsels in butter topped with melted cheese. Everyone enjoyed it, but Mom especially loved the combination of malty ale and bubbly cheese.
The Log Jam is known for its salad bar, and we didn’t hesitate to dive in once our waitress gave us the nod. The variety was impressive even veggie-phobic Son could find several things to put on his plate. Besides the array of fresh salads from caesar to fruit to pasta, there were several thoughtful additions, such as chilled plates and various delicious breads. We loved the raisin bread so much we were able to purchase a loaf to take home. Though it was difficult, we tried to leave room for our entrees that arrived just as we were finishing the salad course. Son, Daughter and Daughter’s friend each ordered off the kids’ menu, which contained several familiar selections along with a few unique ones like a child-sized prime rib and a steak. Daughter enjoyed her baby back ribs ($9.50) despite what she thought was an overuse of sauce, and she especially liked the side of bacon/blue cheese mashed potatoes. For once, Son did not order a hamburger, but did like his chicken tenders ($9.50) enough to finish his plate. Daughter’s friend also enjoyed her mozzarella sticks ($8.50).
Mom ordered the chicken chorizo ($18), which was a hefty portion of angel hair pasta under chicken breast, artichokes and tomatoes. Though the chorizo in the dish was sparse, it worked well with the garlic and wine sauce, and overall it was a hit. Dad chose the “branch cut” prime rib ($23) which was prepared just as ordered and came with a side of horseradish that gave it just the right amount of flavor. His only criticism was that it came out lukewarm, but other than that, it was just what the doctor ordered. Everyone saved just enough room to share a couple of desserts the deep dish Tollhouse pie and the apple crisp ($5.75, each). The pie was huge, with an Oreo crust and cookie center topped with vanilla ice cream. While the girls made light work of the pie, Son, Mom and Dad fought over the warm crisp (also topped with ice cream), which was a perfect mix of contrasting textures and temperatures.
We got the impression that the Log Jam cares a lot about its customers. From the comfortable decor and friendly staff to the many thoughtful touches such as offering mix-and-match and light-sized entrees, as well as gluten free options, their spirit of hospitality won us over. If we had a complaint, it would be that our final bill was a bit high for what we usually spend for a casual meal, though we are not usually treated to such a bountiful salad bar, which was included with our meals. Overall, we give the Log Jam Restaurant 4.5 C’s for service, 4 C’s for family friendliness and 4 C’s for food.
The Family Chow hails from the Capital District and will be contributing regular reviews of area restaurants based on service, food and family friendliness.
