Only a stranger once: Samuel's Bar and Grill

In addition to traffic, Morril's Corner has been the home of Samuel's Bar and Grill for almost ten years. Current owner, Tom Lacasse, has owned the bar for the previous three and the sign on the door reads- "You're only a stranger once." I put that to the test...

I walk in alone and see several people making the most of their happy hour. A few couples were sitting at the tables eating dinner and I grab an empty one in the corner. Some high tops available, four tops that can be pushed together for larger groups and ten seats at the bar- it's quite roomy for such a small looking place.

My friends join me about the same time the waitress brings me a cold shipyard in a frosted glass and the newcomers grab some hot toddies. In addition to a full bar, $5 for house wine, Samuel's has an extensive beer list. On draft, miller lite ($3), Coors Light, Shipyard ($4), Shipyard Seasonal, Guinness ($4.50), Sam Adams, Sam Adams Seasonal, Geary's Pale Ale and Harpoon are available. Bottles selections include Miller Lite, Miller High Life, Heineken ($3), Coors Light, PBR pounder cans ($2.25), Corona, Corona Light, Geary's HSA, Sam Adams Light, Amstel Light, Budweiser, Bud Light, Michelob, Mich Light, Mich Ultra and several varies of Smirnoff.

Dan, the kitchen manager sits down with us and expresses his pride in the food, after I tell him my mother was sad she couldn't join us for dinner. In addition to daily specials, they serve home style comfort foods like macaroni and cheese, Angus burgers ($5.99), fresh soups and chili ($5.99), salads and seafood on a daily basis. Grab a fried shrimp roll for $7.99, nachos with chicken, cheese and veggies for $10.99 or try a pasta dish. In addition to a few vegetarian items, they have children's meals and kids are certainly welcome.

I love a good happy hour and what makes it so happy is the specials. Every night of the week, from 3-6pm, every drink you order is 50 cents off. Sunday, Monday and Tuesday is the infamous 2 for 1 pizza special and Wednesday brings .50 wing night. With football season in full swing, Sunday also brings $1.50 Bud Light and Miller Lites, from 11:30 till 8pm.

As the bartender took over and our waitress headed out from a double shift, we appreciated the service that met our demands. This is the type of place where people really do come in to see people they know and if you are a stranger, no one really cares. Go ahead, saddle up to the bar or grab a table and make yourself at home.

Relaxed atmosphere, cold beers, warm chicken fingers and some good conversation with friends- I'd call this night a win.

Amber Olesen is a freelance writer.