The Ale House, The Barking Dog Bar and Grill, and The Barking Dog Ale House are all unique yet all home to great atmosphere, food, and beer.

Q&A with the Manager- John Tayan

We had the opportunity to sit down with John and ask him a couple questions..

The three restaurants seems to have different personalities. How would you describe each restaurant?  The Ale House- Amesbury has a very local feel with 30 unique craft draft beer selections that are always changing, quality food and great views of the Pow Wow River.

The Barking Dog Bar and Grill- Amesbury- Casual and comfortable to relax with family and friends. We serve a wide selection of comfort food with friendly service featuring a large bar and cocktail area.

The Barking Dog Ale House- Haverhill- Located at 77 Washington Street in downtown Haverhill. We have three floors of dining, two bars and a fourth floor function facility that can accommodate up to 150 people. Stop in and some of our one of a kind dishes or sample a pint from our best on the North Shore craft beer list with forty draft offerings.

Do you have a favorite? They are all great and unique locations!

What do you think is the best part about the restaurants? We have great food, friendly staff and cold beer!

How’d you get in to the restaurant industry? I started washing dishes during summer school vacation the early 80's. That led to cooking and eventually running kitchens as chef for twenty years. Eventually got into operations after being a general manager in a few popular local restaurants.

What your opinion of Jon Taffer? Do you watch bar rescue?  He is great and I do watch sometimes but it is entertainment. The restaurant is entertaining but a portion of those shows are scripted. Jon Taffer actually has a pretty good book if you are into the restaurant business called "Raise the Bar.”

Most rewarding part of your job? Building the relationships with our guests, coworkers and community.

What do you look for in an employee? Personality, loyalty, communication skills, common sense and a wise man once told me make sure they look you in the eye.

Where are you from? Centerville, MA-Cape Cod.

Favorite Sports Team? New England Patriots #5 this year

Are you a morning or night person? Morning

Ocean, Mountains, or Lake? Ocean