Roaring in Roswell: Enjoy fresh-to-table creations at 1920 Tavern

Downtown Roswell is known for its historic charm, walkable eateries, and fun community events like Restaurant Week and Alive in Roswell. But one tavern, in particular, is garnering attention, attracting people near and far to Canton Street. 1920 Tavern, named after the year in which the building was built, provides all the historic charm while serving up classic dishes with a modern twist. People are not keeping quiet about this classy speakeasy located in the heart of Roswell, as it’s fresh-to-table creations and craft libations are the talk of the town.

“A Tavern for All’’ is indeed accurate—1920 Tavern’s menu offers something for everyone. Presenting more than 20 main course options, family and friends are sure to find something they will enjoy. One crowd-pleaser is the Southern Fried Chicken Dinner, which includes a flash-fried French-cut chicken breast with garlic potato puree, sautéed southern green beans and a maple-glazed corn muffin, finished with a rustic white gravy. Any patron with dietary restrictions will be beyond pleased with the restaurant’s wide variety of menu options, as Chef Jason Rawe has created dishes that accommodate vegetarian, gluten-free and keto diets. The Keto Vegetarian Lasagna, made up of a medley of fresh, locally sourced vegetables, housemade tomato sauce, ricotta, mozzarella, and parmesan cheese, is receiving five stars from locals!

Founders and South African natives Jenna and Howard Aronowitz brought their love of food and spices when they moved to the United States on tennis scholarships. The couple opened 1920 Tavern in 2013 and vowed to create a globally inspired menu, offering the freshest, locally sourced ingredients. One flavorful South African-inspired dish is the Peri Peri Chicken: half-roasted chicken served with Spanish red beans and rice along with roasted corn—it’s often paired with a craft beer on tap. Jenna knew she wanted to offer only the freshest of ingredients from the very beginning. One way 1920 Tavern ensures fresh-to-table creations is they do not have a freezer! Delivered daily, ingredients like local organic tomatoes make for the most savory starters like the Fried Green Tomatoes stuffed with herbed goat cheese, roasted red pepper coulis and basil oil.

Inspired by the charm and sophistication of the roaring ’20s, 1920 Tavern transports guests back in time. Depending on the experience you desire, the patio, bar, and dining room all offer something unique. Outdoor seating is optimal for experiencing all the live-action on Canton Street in the heart of downtown. The main dining area is intimate and classy, ideal for a date night with walls lined with antique mirrors and crystal accents. This room is a great option for private parties or corporate events if you’re planning an event.

Photo: Meghan Castro with Social Media Mavens

The bar, located at the front of the tavern, boasts dark brown wood and leather banquettes and quite an impressive offering of bourbon and whiskey. The bar provides the 1920’s vibe, but with the modern advances of televisions. The top specialty house craft cocktail is the Smoked Old Fashioned, made with High West Double Rye, simple syrup, bitters, rosemary and dirty cherry. This drink is truly a must-try—unlike the traditional way of smoking wood chips, the bartender smokes a rosemary sprig to give the drink those smoky notes. The environments throughout 1920 Tavern are elegant and cozy, welcoming patrons to eat, drink, and have a roaring good time.

The Aronowitz’s have naturally created a “Cheers” atmosphere, as they are everpresent in the day-to-day operation of the tavern. Customers are greeted by name and you’re sure to see a familiar face at the bar. Given that Jenna and Howard love to entertain and socialize, patrons and employees of 1920 Tavern have become like family to the couple.

“We don’t have any immediate family here, and we see our clientele as our big extended family,” Jenna says. “The people of Roswell are nothing but amazing and have welcomed us into their family.”

The pandemic was devastating to many restaurants across the country. Still, due to the supportive community, 1920 Tavern saw the light at the end of the tunnel and are doing better than ever before! During the COVID-19 shutdown, many loyal patrons supported the business by purchasing gift cards and ordering food to go.

“The community here is unlike anything I’ve experienced—they’re truly amazing,” Jenna says. During the shutdown, the newest, and now most popular, dessert was created. The Fried Cheesecake with cinnamon sugar, chocolate and crème Fraiche was developed due to a slow day in the kitchen and a chef’s creativity with time on his hands.

With warmer weather and brighter evenings, you won’t miss out on community events to experience firsthand the charm of historic Roswell and its locals. Nestled in the heart of the town, 1920 Tavern’s fresh to-table creations and live music make the perfect summer night. The City of Roswell is excited to host Alive in Roswell every third Thursday from 5 to 9 p.m. through October. This free, family-friendly festival is held in the streets of downtown Roswell and is a great way to explore the area, listen to live music and enjoy great food & drinks at 1920 Tavern.