A Creative Menu Awaits at Pub 25

There is not too much remarkable about the exterior of Pub 25, which is located in Plaza South, just south of Sand Hill Plaza. But after stepping inside, the ambiance is warm and welcoming, with wood accents and a huge river rock fireplace anchoring the dining space.

In warmer weather, the front "wall" of windows opens similar to a garage door to incorporate a small outdoor dining area.

After opening in 2011, in Connecticut Magazine for Best Pub Grub in Fairfield County.

The menu is more diverse than I was expecting, with items such as Oyster Shooters with Bloody Mary and Vodka, Lobster Roll with Drawn Citrus Butter and Cajun Tuna with Wasabi Drizzle.

Some appealing comfort food included Organic Meatloaf, Tomato Soup with Grilled Cheese and Fried Double Stuf Oreos with dip.

But it was lunch and I was craving a burger, so I ordered the Pub 25 Burger with cheddar ($11.20). The burger was huge, arriving with speared fried dilled pickles atop a delicious roll. For sides, there's a choice of sweet potato or regular fries, both of which were served fresh and salty.

Although fried pickles seem more of a novelty than something I'd enjoy eating, the burger was cooked perfectly (medium well), with the roll substantial but not overwhelming. The flavor of the beef is the star of this menu item, whereas the other burger on the menu was flavored with blue cheese and bacon, which sounded good but too rich for me.

My friend tried the grilled veggie sandwich ($10.75). The French bread was grilled, spread with aioli and stuffed with a variety of grilled vegetables. She opted for sweet potato fries, which were served hot with a sprinkle of salt.

We both enjoyed the ambiance at lunch time and thought the food was good, although a bit expensive. The service was pleasant but very slow, which wouldn't matter unless we needed to be somewhere, which we did. We only had an hour for lunch.

I imagine the long and well-stocked bar is busy and possibly noisy at night, but I will visit this spot for lunch again, if only to try the small plate of Spinach Artichoke Cheese Fondue ($9.25).

Pub 25 is located at 266 South Main Street, Newtown, 203-270-3425.

Have you been to Pub 25? Let me know if you tried the fodue (or the fried oreos).