The Grand Oak

The Grand Oak Tavern is an establishment located some distance outside of New Ashton, near the ancient tree from which it takes its name. Its exterior is rustic, with walls made from timber, and large oak doors intricately carved with leaf motifs. Inside, wooden beams run across the ceiling, large oak tables populate the floor, and a stone hearth keeps the room warm throughout the year. The walls are adorned with local artwork and carvings, including depictions of the Grand Oak tree and scenes from New Ashton’s history.
The Grand Oak is largely avoided by the locals, instead catering to the visitors coming to town.
The owner, Garrick Thorne, is a well-known Shortfolk person in New Ashton, both for their warm personality and for their unusual openness to outsiders. A former ranger and the descendant of one of the town's founders, Garrick retired from their life of adventuring to take over the family business. They are known for their ability to charm their customers with stories of the old days, particularly their experiences with the “Whispering Forest.” Garrick prides themselves on maintaining The Grand Oak to enable outsiders to hear the majestic melodies of the forest..
== Menu Plan ==
Food
* Woodland Stew – 5 silver
** A hearty stew made from wild game (usually venison or boar), mushrooms, and forest herbs. Served with a thick slice of freshly baked rye bread.
* Hunter’s Platter – 7 silver
** A generous portion of roasted meats (rabbit, boar, and sometimes duck), served with root vegetables and a tangy berry sauce.
* Forager’s Delight – 4 silver
** A vegetarian dish featuring foraged greens, roasted mushrooms, and a selection of root vegetables, all seasoned with herbs found in the surrounding forest.
* Grand Oak Roast – 3 gold  
** A whole roasted boar (usually shared by groups), slow-cooked and served with honey-glazed apples, roasted carrots, and a selection of breads. This is the tavern’s signature dish and often requires advance notice.
* Forest Berry Pie – 2 silver  
** A sweet and tart pie made with local forest berries and served with a dollop of fresh cream.
* Rye and Nut Loaf – 1 silver
** A loaf of dense, nutty bread baked in-house daily, often eaten with butter or paired with the Woodland Stew.
=== Drinks ===
* Green Leaf Ale – 1 silver
** The house ale, brewed locally with herbs and roots from the forest, giving it a refreshing and slightly earthy flavour.
* Oak Barrel Mead - 1.2 silver
** A rich, honeyed mead aged in oak barrels for a smooth and sweet taste, popular with locals and travellers alike.
* Whispering Forest Wine - 1.2 silver
** A red wine made from the elusive berries of the forest. Known for its deep, slightly spicy flavour, it's a favourite among patrons seeking something special.
* Herbal Brew – 3 copper  
** A non-alcoholic drink made from a blend of local herbs, served hot. It is known for its calming properties and is popular among those recovering from a long day in the forest.
== Lodging ==
* Standard Room – 8 silver per night  
** A cozy room with a comfortable bed, simple wooden furniture, and a view of the surrounding forest. Includes breakfast (bread, cheese, and a small pot of honey or jam) and access to the common room and hearth.
== Additional Services ==
* Hot Bath - 5 copper  
** Guests can request a hot bath, which is drawn and heated in the bathhouse located behind the tavern.
* Stable Service - 2 silver per night  
** The Grand Oak offers stabling for horses, including feeding and grooming.
Category:Tavern/Inn