It may be a challenge to find this downtown Lancaster gem, but it is certainly worth the effort. Tucked away on North Water Street around a shared courtyard with Zoetropolis and the yet to open Cocina Mexicana, is 2nd Gear Lancaster Taproom -- Columbia Kettle Works. The area is still somewhat of a construction zone on the outside, but inside is a taproom finished comfortably with a kind of hip industrial look. As with most well planned establishments, when inside the world outside melts away and the city hustle and construction fades.
Garry and I made a quick walk through a few weeks ago to make sure we could find it. From that visit we knew we had to return. At that time we met Maddie and Justin, the staff on duty. Justin was our bartender today and was as welcoming as before with quick conversation about the beers available and very interested in our quest to visit all of Lancaster County's pubs. He was eager to assist in our selection with samples and a description of whatever we were not sure of.
With 16 taps it does not measure up quantitatively to some of the taprooms with mega numbers of spouts, but all of the drafts are high quality Columbia Kettle Works brews plus a few guest taps with other micro-brewery products of the same standard.
2nd Gear also seems to have a friendly and engaging clientele that sets a very nice atmosphere when you are not a "regular". We had the pleasure of enjoying everyone's conversation including that of another new downtown business owner of The Bread Pedaler, Robbie. Looking at his menu peaked our interest to visit another new Lancaster City restaurant. He spoke of his menu items using fresh local ingredients. We all should support local business. It is building this growing Lancaster County economy.
In the end, 2nd Gear is worth getting out the GPS or consulting Google Maps if necessary. If you go one time, I'm sure you will find your way back again.
Until next time, CHEERS!
To see all the places we have been to, just click on one of the selections below:
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