Why: Sellberg’s Tavern, established in 1934, is one of the oldest of its kind in Vancouver. Located on St. Johns Boulevard, it has a neighborhood vibe that welcomes all comers to indulge in some downtime, a tavern beverage and a modest meal. Their slogan is “Where old friends meet,” and it feels very fitting for the establishment.
What I tried: I had the French dip, and my dining companion had the BLT. Both sandwiches were served with hand-cut fries, served with ranch and ketchup for dipping.
My dining companion enjoyed her sandwich and appreciated its homemade quality. She said it would be similar to something she would make at home with basic toasted white bread and even layers of bacon, lettuce and tomato and just enough mayonnaise to keep it from being too dry.
The French dip was served on a hoagie roll. The thin sliced beef was juicy and lean. Fresh white onion and grilled mushrooms topped the beef, and cheese was melted over the top. I found the portion reasonable for my appetite, but an appetizer might be in order for a heartier one than mine.
Dining out guide: Sellberg’s Tavern
Hours: 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Sunday through Thursday. 11 a.m. Friday to 2 a.m. Saturday. 11 a.m. Saturday to 2 a.m. Sunday.
Where: 2110 St. Johns Blvd., Vancouver.
Contact: 360-695-1854, sellbergstavern.com
Health score: Sellberg’s Tavern received a score of 15 on May 8. Zero is a perfect score, and Clark County Public Health closes restaurants with a score of 100 or higher. For information, call 360-397-8428.
The french fries were fried to a dark shade but remained pliable and tasty.
Menu highlights beyond what I tried: The appetizer menu lists several finger foods, such as corn dogs, cheese sticks, onion rings, jalapeño poppers, a beer dog and Tater Tots, and I was surprised to see a pepperoni stick and a candy bar on it, as well. Pizzas come with up to three toppings. Available toppings include pepperoni, sausage, Canadian bacon, salami, onion, olives, pineapple and mushrooms. Burgers include a mushroom and Swiss, teriyaki, and the Sellburger topped with ham, bacon, egg and cheese in addition to the standard fixings. Fish and chips, taco salad, crispy chicken wraps and a chili dog are on the menu, as well.
Atmosphere: The welcoming atmosphere is low-key and comfortable. It appears as though the last remodel occurred sometime in the ’70s. Walls are covered with slanted wood siding and some mirrors. The bar is down the left of the space with a patio-style cover and string lights above. A center row of booths topped with a brass rail runs parallel to that. Along the perimeter are tables and chairs. A few arcade games are placed throughout, and three pool tables in the back are flanked by raised benches that have side tables lit by classic green-shaded banker’s lamps. There is also a shuffleboard table. Neon brew brand signs decorate the walls as well as a collection of trophies.
Other observations: Service was friendly and the food was a good representation of tavern food that doesn’t have to try too hard and isn’t overly fancy. Sellberg’s also has a nice beer garden outside.
Cost: Appetizers range from $1.25 to $6.75. Pizzas range from $5.75 to $19. Entrees are served with fries or house chips (add tots or a side salad for $1) and cost $7.25 to $8.75. Burgers range from $7.75 to $11.99. Other menu options are $3.25 to $12. To-go orders are an additional 50 cents, and there are daily lunch specials.
