Hidden Gem in Richland Serves Up Local Food, Beverages, and Fun [PHOTOS]

Living in the Tri-CIties for only a year I'm still discovering what to do and where to go. The beauty of living in a new place are finding the little nooks and crannies to be revealed. Being a huge fan of food wine and beer, I'm always on the look out for new bars, restaurants, and pubs. On my latest outing, I was thrilled to find a quaint public house 10 minutes from where I live! If you haven't checked out Fox and Bear Public House, you really need to get on it!

From the outside you can't really get a feel for the warmth and comfort within. The parking lot is a bit awkward, but that's quickly dismissed once you walk in. The dim lighting, long oak bar, and board games along the wall create the welcoming aura.

If you look up (and you should) you'll behold the cool starry sky and cloud mural painted on the ceiling. I was greeted almost immediately as I walked in and found a spot at the bar. The staff was friendly, helpful, patient (I couldn't choose a beer), and knowledgeable. I tried a few samples before deciding on a beer, but my server, Tara, didn't mind at all.

The menu is full of fresh local food, and the beer and wines are pretty much all from local wineries and breweries! The beer I chose was perfect, and the tilapia I ordered was cooked perfectly as were the veggies. The starter salad I got was delicious, and the house made vinaigrette was divine! They make all dressings and sauces in house! Probably the best surprise of the evening was that on Monday night's they have pub trivia! A fun four rounds of questions administered by the owner, Dan. You get the feel of a real family owned and operated place. Dan's daughters even helped me on a quiz question or two!

All in all the food is fresh, the staff is fun and you feel more like you've walked in to a friend's fun dinner party, than a restaurant. Though I though they'd just opened, they've been in the Tri-Cities for 3 years! If you're tired of the chains and cookie cutter places to hang you've GOT to check out Fox and Bear Public House. Experience local flavor and fun at my new fave place. If you're there on Mondays for trivia, make sure to say hi because I'll be there for sure!