SWASHOW PUBLIC HOUSE On a recent business trip to Reno, Nevada, we visited this unassuming restaurant in the middle of downtown. The restaurant is inviting, decorated simply with blue walls and comfortable tables. Blue mason jar candles sparkled on the tabletops, there is patio seating in warmer weather, and the inside bar does offer sports viewing for those looking for that. We opted to sit inside on this particularly chilly day. We were seated immediately, and our waitress was at our table in seconds to get our drink orders.
We had made it to Washoe Public House at the perfect time – happy hour. They feature $5 small plates and ½ off wine, beer, well drinks, and a seasonal cocktail during happy hour. We decided to try their cavatappi mac and cheese and their wagyu bulgogi lettuce cups to start. The mac and cheese was creamy and satisfying with a mix of jack, cheddar, and smoked gouda. The lettuce cups stuffed with beef, kimchi cucumbers, and puffed rice noodles. They were slightly spicy, full of flavor, and gone too soon.
Washoe Public House is owned and operated by Chef Brett Moseley. He’s partnered with local ranches and farms in Reno to provide not only unique menu items but locally sourced ones. After we’d enjoyed our happy hour appetizers, it was time to move over to the main menu for the remainder of our meal. First, we tried their antelope carpaccio. The meltingly tender meat was served with arugula, pickled mushrooms, fried capers, citrus Dijon with a garlic crostini. I’d never had ever tried antelope before and was surprised how tender the meat was, and all the other flavors on the plate seemed to really compliment the flavor of it.
For our main course, we tried their double elk chop. As the menu proudly hails, this dish was featured on Guy Fieri’s popular Food Network show “Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives.” It was a beautiful presentation with lemon fork crushed potatoes, winter squash hash, and a cherry demi-glace. I’d never eaten elk before either, and this was just incredible. It was perfectly cooked with a velvety pink center, and the demi-glace was just sweet enough to create a moan-inducing bite each time you sliced off another piece.
I know that old Guy Fieri get maligned by many a food writer, but I’m telling you this guy knows how to pick ‘em. Every time I have been to a place, he’s featured on the show, I’ve been pleasantly in agreement with his picks. Washoe Public House has an amazing menu, excellent service, and many other menu items that I can’t wait to try soon. Next time you are in Reno, I’d highly advise that you visit this warm little gem of a restaurant.