When you’re cruising on Skyline Drive to the Shenandoah, a stop at PaveMint Smokin’ Taphouse is a must.

The gastropub is a 1960’s gas station turned into taphouse with fresh microbrew that backs into a Happy Creek and an arboretum. To start consider ordering the giant pretzel with the beer cheese dip. It’s soft and moist and the cheese is creamy with a taste of lager. It’s a perfect appetizer to share.

I nibbled on a piece Bavarian pretzel dipped in beer cheese. It was creamy and gooey with a splash of lager.

Since I’m a huge fan of tacos, I had to try the duck tacos.

The duck breast tasted like steak with a rich duck flavor. The texture, seasoning and presentation were spot-on. The three tacos came with radish and pickled cabbage which complemented the fragrant taste of the duck. On the side was thick polenta fries which also can be dipped in the beer cheese.

Pavemint has 35 seasonably-rotated drafts featuring the best craft and micro-brewed beers you can find.

Add a couple craft beers and you have two very happy bellies.