The Duck, Sturbridge, MA

4 out of 5 stars

The Duck’s online description had me wary: “…steaks, enjoy a fantastic seafood special, bite into a mouth-watering cheeseburger.” Oh no, not more pub food. But they are part of the group that owns Cedar Street Grille, one of my all-time favorite restaurants. Thankfully, the Duck is upscale pub food, with a twist.

The appetizer menu looked interesting but we were too afraid to fill up before the entrée to order any. Duck Confit Poutine, Candied Bacon Skewer, Basil Gorgonzola Bread… all looked scrumptious. I saw the House Mac & Cheese appetizer and it was huge!

They have a wide selection of craft brew beers available, which my hubby loves, although we chose to drink wine with our meals.

The hubby had the braise short ribs special, which was amazing. He could’ve eaten with a spoon it was so tender. He didn’t care for the cheese on top because he’s not a blue cheese person, otherwise it was a thumbs up.

I had the Grilled Veal Rib Chop off the standard menu. I hadn’t had veal in a long time and had never had this cut. The port wine mission fig demi gave a nice char to the chop with enough sauce leftover to swirl my bites in. The rib chop was a bit tougher than expected but still very tasty.

We will definitely get back to The Duck but I’m looking forward to Avellino, the Italian restaurant downstairs from The Duck for my next foray.