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Family owned since 1923, the Yankee Tavern was once a watering hole for Lou Gehrig, Yogi Berra, and Babe Ruth (who was known to buy a round after the game). These days the extensive surf-turf-and-pasta menu draws a crowd of middle-aged fans and nearby courthouse employees. At the long bar in front, both groups chow on wings while listening to loud rock or watching a flat screen TV; in the narrow backroom (renovated by owner Joe Bastone who’s worked here since he was 10), art deco lights gleam off the pressed-tin ceiling, while cherry-colored wood chairs tucked under two-tops share real estate with banquettes painted bomber blue. Every bit of wall space pays homage to the home team: murals of former patron Mickey Mantle and the stadium, photos of Joltin’ Joe and Jason Giambi, a bat signed by Berra over the bar. On game days, when hours are often extended, celebrated Yankee fanatic Freddy Sez has been known to stop by to bang his shamrock-adorned frying pan, too. — Leslie Hendrickson

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