The Winking Lizard Tavern has long been celebrated for its vibrant atmosphere, friendly service, and, most importantly, its diverse and flavorful menu specials. Whether you’re a regular patron or a first-time visitor, the specials menu offers an enticing variety of dishes that cater to all tastes and cravings.
From hearty appetizers to satisfying entrees and decadent desserts, the Winking Lizard ensures every meal is an experience worth savoring. The specials not only showcase seasonal ingredients but also highlight the culinary creativity of the kitchen, making each visit something to look forward to.
These specials are carefully crafted to provide excellent value without compromising quality. They reflect the tavern’s commitment to fresh, locally sourced ingredients and bold flavors that appeal to families, groups, and solo diners alike.
By rotating the menu regularly, the Winking Lizard keeps its offerings exciting and encourages guests to explore new culinary delights. This dynamic approach to dining is a significant part of what makes the Winking Lizard a beloved destination for casual dining and social gatherings.
Whether you are seeking a quick lunch, a leisurely dinner, or a festive weekend treat, the Winking Lizard’s specials are designed to satisfy. The combination of affordability, taste, and variety ensures that every visit can be unique, promising an enjoyable meal that feels special every time.
Appetizer Specials: A Flavorful Start
Appetizers at the Winking Lizard are designed to awaken the palate and set the tone for the meal ahead. The specials offer a range of options that balance classic comfort with innovative twists.
Perfect for sharing or enjoying solo, these starters combine fresh ingredients and bold seasonings to create memorable bites.
One standout on the special appetizers menu is the Loaded Nachos, piled high with melted cheese, jalapeños, fresh salsa, and your choice of seasoned chicken or beef. This dish is a crowd-pleaser, ideal for groups looking to kick off their meal with something hearty and sharable.
Another popular option is the Winking Wings, available in a variety of sauces from tangy buffalo to sweet and spicy BBQ.
Vegetarian guests will appreciate the Black Bean Quesadilla, packed with smoky black beans, roasted peppers, and melted cheese, served with a side of sour cream and guacamole. For those who prefer lighter fare, the Fresh Garden Salad special offers crisp greens topped with seasonal vegetables and a zesty house-made dressing.
Appetizer Highlights
- Loaded Nachos: Hearty, shareable, customizable with chicken or beef
- Winking Wings: Multiple sauce options from mild to spicy
- Black Bean Quesadilla: Vegetarian-friendly and flavorful
- Fresh Garden Salad: Seasonal vegetables with zesty dressing
“Starting your meal with a great appetizer sets the stage for an unforgettable dining experience, and Winking Lizard never disappoints.”
Entree Specials: Hearty and Satisfying
The entree specials at the Winking Lizard Tavern are designed to satisfy even the heartiest appetites. These dishes showcase a range of proteins, cooking styles, and cultural influences, ensuring every guest finds something to love.
The focus is on delivering robust flavors paired with generous portions.
One of the signature specials is the Slow-Roasted Prime Rib, cooked to perfection and served with garlic mashed potatoes and seasonal vegetables. This dish exemplifies the tavern’s commitment to quality and traditional comfort food.
For seafood lovers, the Blackened Salmon special offers a spicy, smoky crust that complements the tender, flaky fish beautifully.
For those seeking something different, the Spicy Thai Chicken Stir Fry is a vibrant option featuring fresh vegetables, aromatic herbs, and a tangy sauce that adds a delightful kick. Vegetarian entrees such as the Grilled Portobello Mushroom Stack provide a hearty and satisfying alternative, layered with roasted red peppers, melted mozzarella, and a balsamic glaze.
Entree Comparison Table
| Dish | Main Ingredients | Flavor Profile | Best Paired With |
| Slow-Roasted Prime Rib | Beef, garlic mashed potatoes, seasonal vegetables | Rich, savory, traditional | Red wine, dark beer |
| Blackened Salmon | Salmon, Cajun spices, side salad | Spicy, smoky, fresh | White wine, light beer |
| Spicy Thai Chicken Stir Fry | Chicken, vegetables, Thai chili sauce | Spicy, tangy, aromatic | Green tea, lager |
| Grilled Portobello Mushroom Stack | Mushrooms, roasted peppers, mozzarella | Earthy, savory, sweet | Herbal tea, pale ale |
Seasonal Specials: Fresh and Inspired
The Winking Lizard takes pride in celebrating the seasons through its specials menu. By incorporating fresh, local ingredients, the seasonal specials provide unique flavors that reflect the best produce available at any given time.
These dishes offer a refreshing change and showcase the kitchen’s creativity.
In spring, expect specials featuring tender asparagus, fresh peas, and light citrus notes. Summer brings specials that emphasize ripe tomatoes, sweet corn, and juicy berries.
Autumn dishes highlight root vegetables, squash, and warm spices, while winter specials focus on hearty stews and comfort food that soothes the soul.
The seasonal specials rotate frequently, encouraging guests to return often and discover something new. This approach also supports local farmers and producers, aligning with the tavern’s commitment to sustainability and quality.
Seasonal Ingredients and Benefits
- Spring: Asparagus, peas, lemon zest—light and refreshing
- Summer: Tomatoes, corn, berries—fresh and vibrant
- Autumn: Squash, root vegetables, cinnamon—warm and comforting
- Winter: Hearty greens, stews, spices—nourishing and robust
“By embracing seasonal ingredients, the Winking Lizard ensures every dish bursts with natural flavor and supports local communities.”
Happy Hour Specials: Great Deals and Tasty Bites
Happy Hour at the Winking Lizard is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. The specials during this time combine discounted drinks with select food items, making it an ideal opportunity to relax after work or gather with friends.
The menu is crafted to offer a little something for everyone without sacrificing quality.
Popular Happy Hour food specials include the Mini Sliders, which feature a choice of beef, chicken, or vegetarian patties topped with fresh fixings. The Beer-Battered Onion Rings are crispy and satisfying, perfect for sharing.
Alongside these, the Classic Pretzel Bites served with beer cheese sauce are a comforting and indulgent option.
On the drinks side, the tavern offers rotating craft beer selections, discounted cocktails like the Winking Mule, and house wines. These specials encourage guests to explore different flavors and enjoy the lively tavern atmosphere without breaking the bank.
Happy Hour Food & Drink Highlights
| Item | Description | Price |
| Mini Sliders | Choice of beef, chicken, or veggie with toppings | $5 each |
| Beer-Battered Onion Rings | Crispy, golden rings served with dipping sauce | $4 basket |
| Classic Pretzel Bites | Soft pretzels with warm beer cheese sauce | $6 basket |
| Winking Mule | Refreshing vodka cocktail with ginger beer and lime | $7 |
“Happy Hour at the Winking Lizard is not just about savings, but about creating moments of joy and connection.”
Dessert Specials: Sweet Endings
Desserts at the Winking Lizard are crafted to provide a satisfying conclusion to any meal. The specials often feature both classic favorites and seasonal creations that highlight fresh ingredients and indulgent flavors.
Whether you prefer rich chocolate or fruity freshness, the dessert menu has something to delight every sweet tooth.
The Chocolate Lava Cake is a standout, served warm with a molten center and accompanied by vanilla ice cream. Fruit lovers can indulge in the Seasonal Berry Crisp, topped with a crunchy oat topping and served with whipped cream.
For a lighter option, the Lemon Poppy Seed Cheesecake balances tangy citrus with creamy richness.
Each dessert is thoughtfully prepared to complement the meal and provide a memorable finish. The specials rotate to reflect seasonal fruits and flavors, ensuring variety and freshness throughout the year.
Dessert Pairing Tips
- Chocolate Lava Cake: Best paired with a robust coffee or port wine
- Seasonal Berry Crisp: Pairs well with light dessert wines or herbal tea
- Lemon Poppy Seed Cheesecake: Complements sparkling wines or citrus-infused cocktails
“A great dessert is the perfect punctuation to a memorable meal, and Winking Lizard’s specials never disappoint.”
Family-Friendly Specials: Meals for All Ages
The Winking Lizard Tavern understands the importance of offering menu options that cater to families and younger diners. Their family-friendly specials are crafted to appeal to children and adults alike, with portion sizes and flavors designed to please diverse palates.
These specials make dining out enjoyable and stress-free for parents and kids.
Popular options include the Chicken Tenders Basket, served with fries and a choice of dipping sauces, and the Mac and Cheese Bowl, a creamy and comforting favorite among children. The tavern also offers smaller portions of their classic entrees, making it easy for families to share and sample a variety of dishes.
Alongside the food, the specials include non-alcoholic beverages and desserts tailored for younger guests. The relaxed environment and attentive service make the Winking Lizard an excellent choice for family outings and celebrations.
Family Special Features
- Chicken Tenders Basket: Crispy tenders with kid-friendly sauces
- Mac and Cheese Bowl: Creamy, cheesy, and always a hit
- Mini Burgers: Smaller-sized classics with fresh toppings
- Non-Alcoholic Drinks: Variety of juices and sodas
“Creating a welcoming space for families means offering specials that everyone, from toddlers to adults, can enjoy.”
Weekend Brunch Specials: A Relaxed Gathering
Weekend brunch at the Winking Lizard is a celebrated event, combining classic breakfast favorites with inventive dishes and refreshing beverages. The specials menu is designed to offer something for both early risers and leisurely late-morning diners.
With generous portions and bold flavors, brunch here is as much about the food as it is about enjoying time with friends and family.
Signature brunch specials include the Winking Lizard Breakfast Burrito, stuffed with eggs, sausage, cheese, and fresh salsa. The Belgian Waffle Stack comes with seasonal fruit and whipped cream, offering a sweet option for those with a morning sweet tooth.
For a savory choice, the Avocado Toast Deluxe features multigrain bread topped with smashed avocado, cherry tomatoes, and a poached egg.
Complementing the food specials are a selection of brunch cocktails such as mimosas and bloody marys, as well as freshly brewed coffee and specialty teas. The relaxed ambiance makes it an ideal spot to unwind and enjoy a satisfying meal.
Brunch Beverage Specials
- Mimosas: Classic orange juice and champagne blend
- Bloody Marys: Spicy tomato cocktail with customizable garnishes
- Freshly Brewed Coffee: Bold and smooth, perfect for any time
- Specialty Teas: Herbal, black, and green varieties available
“Brunch at the Winking Lizard blends great food, lively drinks, and warm company to create a weekend ritual worth savoring.”
Conclusion
The Winking Lizard Tavern’s menu specials embody the perfect balance of creativity, quality, and value. By offering a diverse range of options across appetizers, entrees, desserts, and beverages, the tavern ensures that every guest finds something to delight their palate.
The thoughtful incorporation of seasonal ingredients and family-friendly choices further enhances the dining experience, making it inclusive and enjoyable for all.
Whether you are stopping by for a quick Happy Hour bite, gathering with family for a weekend brunch, or indulging in a hearty entree, the specials menu at the Winking Lizard consistently delivers on flavor and satisfaction.
This dynamic and ever-evolving selection keeps the dining experience fresh and exciting, encouraging repeat visits and new discoveries. The Winking Lizard is more than just a tavern—it’s a culinary destination where great food and memorable moments come together.
Ultimately, the specials reflect the tavern’s dedication to hospitality and culinary excellence. Each dish is crafted with care and presented with pride, inviting guests to enjoy not just a meal, but a celebration of taste and community.
For those seeking an inviting atmosphere paired with exceptional food, the Winking Lizard’s menu specials offer a compelling reason to visit again and again.
