Quote: While my wife and I were in the Evansville area, we decided to experience as much of the local cuisine that we could. On Saturday evening we decided to eat at The Log Inn, an establishment that has been serving since the 1840s. The advertisements for this restaurant state that the customer can dine in the original log room that served Abraham lincoln, in 1844. Obviously, we wanted to be a part of the history.

We drove down Highway 2 to Warrenton, about 10 miles outside of Evansville. The restaurant was located on the side of the road. The parking lot, although ample, was filled by 5:30pm. We had to wait in a line that extended halfway around the building just to place our names on a waiting list to be seated. Then, we had a wait of about 90 minutes. This restaurant is really popular!

The wait was worthwhile, though. Once we entered the building, our thoughts were transported to the mid-1800s. The decor of the interior showed the logs that give this establishment its name. The walls were lined with trophy animal souvenirs. Finally we were seated. Those with groups of three or more were served family style. Others were served a la Carte. The family meal included the half fried chicken meal (for which the restaurant is famed), a choice of either roast beef or ham, and several vegetables (including mashed potatoes and gravy, green beans or green peas, carrots, squash caserole, and tomatoes). There was also a serving of a delicious fresh-baked bread. A non-alcoholic drink was included in the meal. Beer, wine, and cocktails were available on request for a modest additional price. I eagerly dug into the food as soon as it arrived, as my appetite had really become quite strong by the time we were finally seated. When we were finally finished with our meal, we were offered dessert. Even though I had been extremely hungry, I had filled myself with so much food that I could eat no more.

I have mixed feelings about the Log Inn. The idea of eating in the same location that once served Abraham Lincoln appeals to my love of history. However, as I age, I find myself less tolerant of waiting more than a few minutes for a meal. Those wishing to experience this place need to arrive early so as to get the best opportunity to be seated promptly. Otherwise, they need to be prepared for a long wait.

From journals Low Down on "River City"