The Free House

It's a Pub now, but the brick house at 1902 Parmenter Street in Middleton, has been something since 1870.

The American Hotel served dinners for a quarter and liquid refreshments for students at the university, salesmen, and locals.  When it's run as a hotel came to a close, it transitioned into a home and doctor's office. 

In 1968, a local artist bought for a gallery.  Charles Haycock added on and it became a restaurant.

The Free House Pub offers good food and drink in what still looks like a very nice home.

Maybe they just left the table and chairs on the porch hoping for a late November thaw?  Or there isn't space in the garage?

Journey inside through the side door facing Elmwood Street and you find a spacious bar with friendly staff and a large TV perfect to watch the local team. 

It features beer, wine, cocktails, and whiskey befitting its early history as a place for a drink.  It's also a friendly environment.  We sat in the front room, maybe a living room in a former life, now made comfortable with historic pictures of an earlier Middleton and gentle interior.

Looking around the place, you see a relaxed atmosphere perfect for a quiet meal with a close friend or a special dinner out.  Both floors of the home are used for seating and it adds to the ambiance.

You expect to find good food, and in many places like this around the Capital City, you expect it to be local.  The Free House Pub doesn't disappoint - as they serve meats prepared by a butcher shop just down the street.

Knoche's started in 1938 and stands still on Old Middleton Road.  A quaint old-school grocery store with the stuff you need and none of the stuff you don't to put good food on the table.

The burger on my sandwich was superb!  A light and flavorful taste stands out in comparison to most others, making it's name "The Old Standby" a misnomer.  I'd make it my first choice.

Nice job, friends - we'll see you again.