It is so seldom you run into any place, product or service these days that the end result is that the experience exceeds your expectations. Spoiler alert. Niko’s exceeded my expectations on every level.
I was tooling around Northern Illinois and I’ve had some good grub in the town of Marengo before, so I decided to stop and try another joint. Pointers Saloon, on the main drag, called to me with the sign out from which simply said “burgers and beer.”
The decor is “outdoorsy” with a fair amount of dead animals adorning the wall. I don’t mind. The service was very pleasant and attentive, from the initial contact all the way through the meal and to my departure. Very enthusiastic young woman.
The menu is lengthy. Hard to choose, but I started with a Chicago favorite, Saganaki, a greek cheese set on fire at table side, that you can scrape up with pita. Love it.
Finally decided on a club sandwich, I love a good one, and this ended up in my top 3. Quality ingredients. Prepared with care. Nice presentation. Good sides, with home cut fries and a tangy slaw.
Also at the table was a patty melt, on marble rye, which was also pronounced ‘most excellent.”
How can I get so excited about a club sandwich? Two reasons: 1) There are a lot of crappy ones in the world, and 2) that Pointer’s cook would be conscientious and care enough to prepare this one very nicely.
Decor. Food. Good service. Two sandwiches, appetizer and one beer, $42 including tip.
Here’s their menu again. Nightly specials too, including the local tradition of AYCE fish fry on Friday nites. If you’re out on a drive from Rockford or Chicago, this place is worth a stop.
Nikos Pointers Saloon Review, Marengo, IL