The Drake Tavern in Jenkintown, Pennsylvania, stands as a beloved neighborhood gem, offering a distinct blend of classic American fare and contemporary twists. Nestled in the heart of the community, its menu reflects a commitment to quality ingredients, innovative recipes, and a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Whether you’re stopping by for a casual lunch, a cozy dinner, or an evening with friends, the Drake Tavern’s menu caters to a variety of tastes and dietary preferences, ensuring every guest finds something memorable.
From hearty appetizers to indulgent desserts, the culinary offerings are crafted to satisfy both traditionalists and adventurous eaters alike. The use of fresh, locally sourced ingredients enhances each dish’s flavor profile, while the skilled kitchen team consistently delivers dishes that balance comfort with creativity.
Exploring the Drake Tavern menu reveals a dedication to diversity and quality that has earned it a loyal following in the Jenkintown area and beyond.
Whether you’re a longtime fan or discovering the tavern for the first time, understanding the menu’s depth and variety can enhance your dining experience. Expect thoughtfully prepared dishes, a well-rounded selection of beverages, and an atmosphere where food and community come together seamlessly.
Appetizers and Starters
The appetizer section of the Drake Tavern menu offers a variety of choices designed to whet the appetite and set the tone for your meal. Carefully curated, these starters range from classic pub favorites to inventive small plates, giving guests a flavorful introduction to what the kitchen has to offer.
Each appetizer is prepared with fresh ingredients and attention to detail. For example, their signature pretzel bites are served warm with a tangy beer cheese dip, offering a perfect balance of salty and creamy textures.
Additionally, the menu includes lighter options such as seasonal salads and house-made soups, catering to those seeking something less filling but equally satisfying.
The diversity of starters encourages sharing, making them ideal for groups or as an accompaniment to drinks. They pair wonderfully with the tavern’s selection of local craft beers and wines, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Popular Appetizer Highlights
- Soft Pretzel Bites: Served with a house-made beer cheese dip, these are a crowd favorite.
- Buffalo Cauliflower: A vegetarian option tossed in spicy buffalo sauce, served with ranch dressing.
- Crab Cakes: Made with fresh crab meat and a zesty remoulade, offering a rich, coastal flavor.
- Seasonal Soup: Always changing, made fresh daily using local produce.
“Starting your meal at Drake Tavern is about savoring bold flavors that awaken the palate and prepare you for the culinary journey ahead.”
Entrées and Main Courses
The entrée selection at Drake Tavern reflects a well-balanced mix of classic American dishes and contemporary culinary influences. Each dish is thoughtfully prepared, boasting generous portions and robust flavors.
Guests can expect a variety of proteins, including beef, chicken, seafood, and vegetarian options that showcase the kitchen’s versatility.
One of the hallmarks of the main courses is the emphasis on freshness and quality. Steaks are sourced from reputable local farms, and seafood is delivered fresh, ensuring every plate exemplifies excellence.
Vegetarian and vegan dishes receive equal attention, highlighting seasonal vegetables and creative preparations to satisfy all diners.
The menu also features rotating specials that highlight regional and seasonal ingredients, ensuring repeat visits always offer something new and exciting. These dishes often include unique flavor combinations, such as maple-glazed pork belly or pan-seared trout with herb butter.
Signature Main Dishes
- Drake Tavern Burger: A juicy, hand-formed beef patty topped with cheddar, lettuce, tomato, and house-made pickles, served on a brioche bun.
- Pan-Seared Salmon: Accompanied by roasted seasonal vegetables and a lemon-dill sauce.
- Grilled Chicken Alfredo: Tender chicken breast served over fettuccine pasta with creamy Parmesan sauce.
- Vegetarian Risotto: Creamy Arborio rice cooked with seasonal mushrooms and fresh herbs.
| Dish | Main Ingredients | Typical Accompaniments |
| Drake Tavern Burger | Beef, cheddar, lettuce, tomato, pickles | Fries or side salad |
| Pan-Seared Salmon | Salmon, lemon, dill, seasonal vegetables | Roasted potatoes |
| Grilled Chicken Alfredo | Chicken breast, fettuccine, Parmesan | Garlic bread |
| Vegetarian Risotto | Arborio rice, mushrooms, herbs | Side of steamed greens |
Sandwiches and Burgers
Sandwiches and burgers at Drake Tavern are a cornerstone of the menu, perfect for a casual meal or a satisfying lunch. The tavern prides itself on using freshly baked bread and premium ingredients to elevate these often simple fare items.
Each sandwich is crafted with care, balancing flavors and textures for maximum enjoyment.
From classic cheeseburgers to inventive creations, the range offers something for everyone. Many sandwiches come with house-made sauces and toppings that add a unique twist, such as a smoky chipotle mayo or caramelized onions.
The menu also caters to dietary needs, featuring gluten-free bun options and vegetarian sandwiches.
Accompaniments include crispy fries, sweet potato fries, or a fresh side salad, allowing guests to customize their meal. The vibrant atmosphere of the tavern makes enjoying a burger or sandwich an experience that goes beyond just the food.
Featured Sandwich Options
- The Classic Cheeseburger: A timeless favorite with American cheese, lettuce, tomato, and special sauce.
- BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwich: Slow-cooked pork smothered in tangy BBQ sauce, topped with coleslaw.
- Veggie Delight: Grilled seasonal vegetables with hummus on a toasted ciabatta roll.
- Turkey Club: Layers of turkey, bacon, lettuce, tomato, and mayo on toasted whole wheat bread.
“The sandwiches at Drake Tavern are more than just meals—they’re crafted experiences that celebrate bold flavors and fresh ingredients.”
Salads and Lighter Fare
For those seeking lighter options, the Drake Tavern menu offers a thoughtfully curated selection of salads and small plates. These dishes emphasize freshness and balance, combining crisp greens, vibrant vegetables, and house-made dressings.
They provide a perfect choice for health-conscious diners or those looking for a refreshing meal.
Salads often feature seasonal ingredients and rotating toppings, ensuring that each visit brings something new. Protein add-ons, such as grilled chicken or salmon, allow guests to tailor their dish to their appetite.
The tavern’s commitment to quality is evident in every bite, with dressings made from scratch and produce sourced locally whenever possible.
Additionally, these lighter options pair well with the tavern’s selection of wines and craft cocktails, making them a versatile choice for any occasion.
Popular Salad Selections
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine, house-made croutons, Parmesan cheese, and creamy Caesar dressing.
- Harvest Salad: Mixed greens with roasted butternut squash, cranberries, goat cheese, and candied pecans.
- Greek Salad: Tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, feta cheese, and red onion with a lemon-oregano vinaigrette.
- Spinach and Strawberry Salad: Fresh spinach, sliced strawberries, toasted almonds, and poppy seed dressing.
| Salad | Main Ingredients | Dressing |
| Caesar Salad | Romaine, croutons, Parmesan | Creamy Caesar |
| Harvest Salad | Greens, butternut squash, cranberries, goat cheese | Balsamic Vinaigrette |
| Greek Salad | Tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, feta | Lemon-Oregano Vinaigrette |
| Spinach and Strawberry Salad | Spinach, strawberries, almonds | Poppy Seed |
Desserts and Sweet Treats
The dessert offerings at Drake Tavern provide a satisfying conclusion to any meal, featuring rich, flavorful options that appeal to a range of tastes. From decadent chocolate creations to lighter fruit-based dishes, the dessert menu balances indulgence with freshness.
Each sweet treat is prepared on-site, often with seasonal ingredients that enhance the overall experience.
Popular desserts include classic choices like cheesecake and chocolate mousse, as well as unique specials that rotate regularly. The kitchen’s attention to detail ensures each dessert is visually appealing and crafted with care, making them perfect for sharing or savoring solo.
In addition to traditional desserts, the tavern occasionally offers specialty dessert cocktails and coffee pairings, providing a comprehensive sweet finish to the evening.
Signature Desserts
- New York Style Cheesecake: Creamy and dense, served with a fresh berry compote.
- Chocolate Lava Cake: Warm chocolate cake with a gooey center, accompanied by vanilla ice cream.
- Seasonal Fruit Crisp: Made with locally sourced fruit and a crunchy oat topping.
- Banana Foster Bread Pudding: Rich bread pudding with caramelized bananas and a rum sauce.
“Dessert at Drake Tavern is a celebration of flavors that perfectly complements the meal’s journey, leaving guests with a lasting sweet memory.”
Beverages and Drink Menu
The Drake Tavern’s beverage menu is as thoughtfully curated as its food offerings, featuring a comprehensive selection of craft beers, wines, cocktails, and non-alcoholic options. This diversity ensures that every guest can find a drink that complements their meal or suits their mood.
Local craft beers enjoy a prominent place on the menu, with rotating taps highlighting regional breweries. The wine list includes both domestic and international selections, balanced to pair well with the menu’s dishes.
Signature cocktails crafted by experienced bartenders showcase seasonal ingredients and innovative flavor combinations.
Non-alcoholic options are equally varied, with house-made lemonades, specialty sodas, and fresh juices available. This focus on quality and variety reflects the tavern’s commitment to hospitality and guest satisfaction.
Drink Highlights
- Local Craft Beer Selection: Rotating taps featuring IPAs, stouts, and lagers from nearby breweries.
- House Wine List: Reds, whites, and rosés chosen to complement the menu’s flavors.
- Signature Cocktails: Seasonal creations such as the “Jenkintown Mule” and “Drake Old Fashioned.”
- Non-Alcoholic Options: Freshly squeezed lemonade, artisanal sodas, and herbal iced teas.
| Category | Options | Price Range |
| Craft Beers | IPA, Stout, Lager, Seasonal | $6 – $9 |
| Wines | Cabernet, Chardonnay, Rosé | $8 – $12/glass |
| Cocktails | Old Fashioned, Mule, Seasonal Specials | $10 – $14 |
| Non-Alcoholic | Lemonade, Sodas, Iced Tea | $3 – $5 |
Special Diets and Customization
Recognizing the diverse dietary needs of its clientele, Drake Tavern offers a variety of options for guests with special dietary requirements. Whether you follow a gluten-free, vegetarian, vegan, or dairy-free diet, the kitchen is prepared to accommodate your preferences without compromising on flavor or quality.
Menu items are clearly marked to assist diners in making informed choices, and staff are knowledgeable about ingredient details and preparation methods. Many dishes can be customized upon request, such as substituting gluten-free buns or omitting certain ingredients to suit allergies.
This flexibility reflects the tavern’s inclusive philosophy, ensuring that everyone can enjoy a satisfying and safe dining experience. The team encourages guests to communicate their needs and is happy to provide recommendations or modifications.
Dietary Accommodations
- Gluten-Free Options: Burgers with gluten-free buns, salads without croutons, and specially prepared entrees.
- Vegetarian and Vegan Dishes: Including buffalo cauliflower, vegetarian risotto, and vegetable-based sandwiches.
- Dairy-Free Choices: Many salads and entrees can be modified to exclude dairy.
- Allergy Awareness: Staff trained to handle common allergens and cross-contamination concerns.
“At Drake Tavern, dining is about inclusion—every guest deserves delicious food tailored to their lifestyle and dietary needs.”
Conclusion
The Drake Tavern in Jenkintown, PA, presents a menu that embodies the spirit of a trusted neighborhood tavern with a modern, culinary edge. Its diverse offerings—from hearty mains and crafted sandwiches to fresh salads and decadent desserts—showcase a dedication to quality, creativity, and guest satisfaction.
Each dish is thoughtfully prepared, emphasizing fresh, local ingredients and balanced flavors that appeal to a wide range of palates.
Beyond the food, the tavern’s beverage selection complements the menu perfectly, with carefully chosen craft beers, wines, and signature cocktails enhancing the overall dining experience. The attention to dietary accommodations further highlights the tavern’s commitment to inclusivity and customer care, making it a welcoming spot for everyone.
Whether you’re seeking a casual meal, a lively night out, or a place to gather with friends, Drake Tavern’s menu offers something for every occasion. Its blend of tradition and innovation invites guests to explore familiar favorites and discover new tastes, ensuring that every visit is both satisfying and memorable.
