I really enjoyed my first meal at the new Noble Hops Gastropub. The interior is the color of dark chalkboard, and everything is clean, sharp and casual. I found myself undistracted by most of the décor, allotting more time for contemplation of the rows of tap handles and handwritten beer boards that are the new eatery's backbone.

I mean, yes, you can smell the slow-roasting “drunken chicken” from the parking lot, and the burgers and salads coming out of the kitchen are gorgeous, but that’s all built around a staggeringly large and assorted selection of fine brews. The server will give you a little taste of the beer, if you’d like. You may comment on the aroma and character and receive knowing nods of encouragement, or down it barbarian-style and order a couple pints (you savage you).

Which is to say: Noble Hops splits it down the middle. You get a little more character than a bar, a dash of class and a pub feel with all the cigars and beer and all that. Yet it is not in any way stuffy or cloying. It just seems like a nice place to grab a really good burger and a beer, but even on a first date or a business lunch. Nice patio scene, too.

The place just opened last week at 1335 W. Lambert Lane in Oro Valley, and was doing a tidy little afternoon business today. Looks like the place might be a good fit for that neighborhood.