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The TowneLaker - October 2008
Towne Lake Diner- Summits Wayside Tavern
by Kara Kiefer
When you first step inside Summits Wayside Tavern, you might be tempted to think, “Sports Bar.” Yes, there are more than 150 beers on tap, 700 types of bottled beer, 101 varieties of vodka, televisions and wings on the menu. But in talking to owner Andy Klubock, to pigeon-hole Summits as a “sports bar” simply doesn’t do it justice. “We are all about the food first. We make everything from scratch, and we serve everything on the menu until closing,” remarked Andy.
Andy is passionate about what he does, and that passion is evident in his menu, his staff and his desire to continually learn new recipes or expound on one of hundreds of beers he carries. He created an entirely new restaurant (for those of you who patronized any of the previous establishments), and it more than meets the needs of those who stop in after a round of golf or a tennis match to families or sports teams hosting a season-end party. There’s a game room to entertain the kids and a closed circuit television for parents to keep an eye on their youngster in the gaming area. But as Andy said, it’s all about the food and service, and both of these things exceeded any expectation I had for such an establishment.
When Andy said, “I’m all about choices,” that pretty much sums up Summits. Of course, there are choices in beer and bar options. But the food choices are outstanding in taste, presentation and value. In fact, the first time I dined at Summits, I went for lunch and had the Ahi Tuna Salad. This pepper encrusted Sashimi-grade tuna was out of this world. Seared to perfection, it was the perfect lunch for me. I was so impressed by Summits that I returned that evening with “the boys.” The “boys” devoured a Philly Cheese Steak, which is made with Provolone cheese and a Bison Burger. When it came time for dessert, my son decided to try one his favorites, Key Lime Pie. I make a wicked Key Lime Pie, so my family is spoiled, and they always comment on restaurant Key Lime Pies by saying, “Not as good as yours, Mom.” However, this time, my son said nothing; it was that good.
While speaking to Andy, we were treated to several dishes prepared for tasting purposes. One of the sandwiches Andy is most proud of is his Reuben. He calls it “Georgia’s Best Reuben.” He brines the corned beef for up to 24 hours and that is what makes the difference in this sandwich. It was amazing and the name is fitting. The calamari we tried also was a big hit. And it’s the good stuff, not just the rings. Andy has two versions, and my favorite was the “buffalo” style, sprinkled with bleu cheese crumbles and pepperoncinis. Summits also has “unconventional” menu items such as Kobe beef hamburgers and hot dogs and Asian inspired Bowls. Everything is made to order and available any time of day, even at closing.
Andy has big plans for Summits including seasonal menus (six per year), beer dinners, Trivia Night, All You Can Eat Crab Legs (Wednesdays), Beef on Weck (Fridays) and in September, he will host a Tapas dinner.
Summits is a great destination for all, and it is all about choices. “I realize that people have a choice when it comes to dining out,” noted Andy. “My goal is to always make you glad you chose us whether it’s to sample one of our many beers or enjoy our outstanding menu. I’m glad to be chosen!” As someone who likes choices, good food, excellent service and a place to hang out with family and friends, Summits fits the bill!
