Ever had a seemingly intangible craving for experiencing history or something long established? Downtown Annapolis thrives on this feeling, except that it actually can offer the historical significance in plain form. All those marvelous brick buildings that border State Circle and Church Circle supply an immense amount of history. In those taverns, bed and breakfasts, and restaurants are kind, enthusiastic owners–one of which I had the pleasure to converse with.
Wes Burg came to run Reynolds Tavern with his wife, Marilyn, between 2003 and 2004. The tavern sits off Church Circle and has the semblance of an 18th century establishment with red brick, a chimney and rectangular windows. The tavern is the oldest one in Annapolis (built in 1747), lending a hand to that historical aesthetic, but is renovated, which makes it comfortable for the modern customer.
Speaking of comfort, Reynolds Tavern features three luxurious accommodations–two suites and one room. Naturally, all three accommodations are decorated in 18th century decor. The Washington Suite is $295 per night; the Jefferson Suite is $275 per night; and Mary Reynolds Room is $220 per night. Think of the colonial yet modern excitement: staying the night downtown, above a tavern, on a street covered in bricks and the pitter patter of feet. Reserve a night or two via the contact info given at the end.
On any given day, you’ll witness the success of Reynolds Tavern’s dining. There are tables set up for a cozy dining experience for two or three outside. Off the back, guests can eat in the courtyard or in the cellar at Sly Fox Pub & Restaurant. Experience nostalgia and order a beer in the pub. Of course, if you’d truly like to live the life of an 18th century person, join Reynolds Tavern for tea. They serve English afternoon tea from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. every day.
Here, we’ll stop to hear from Wes Burg, because he has a few things to say about the food. “We serve traditional English fare,” Burg proudly says, “Like bangers and mash and shepherd’s pie.” For those who like to stick with American cuisine, Reynolds Tavern also offers traditional American food, you know, cheesy things, dishes containing bread, meat, etc. The tavern is open for dinner Wednesday through Sunday.
Now that we have a handle on the fact Reynolds Tavern serves delightful food in a wonderfully historic town, we will move on to the owners. The Burgs did not always own Reynolds Tavern until about nine years ago. Now, they run the building including the tea room and B&B. Though Reynolds Tavern saw previous owners, the lovely building has always been called Reynolds Tavern.
Even before Reynolds Tavern, Wes understood the rustic beauty of brick buildings in a historic area. “I lived in Paris for three years,” he begins, “And I loved the historic buildings.” Wes continues “Annapolis reminds me of France.” Though we don’t have the flowery French accent here, I would venture to say Annapolis is fairly marvelous as well.
On plans Wes has for the future, he remarks “We evolve each season slightly, but try to provide a great experience in a colonial building in downtown Annapolis.” More simple advice from the owner: “We just try to get better and better each year,” Wes proudly says. He and his wife have about ten more years as owners per their contract, and we know Reynolds Tavern will maintain the same friendly service, gorgeous interior, and colonial experience.
Never been to Reynolds Tavern? Consider visiting the building as your mission for the next week–it’s local, historic, and owned by two enthusiastic owners. Visit the site at http://www.reynoldstavern.org/ or call 410-295-9555 to learn more.
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