Longhorn Steakhouse, Lancaster - Bar # 187

The Retired Guys have a simple rule about "chain" restaurants and bars - if there is only one in Lancaster County, we'll try it and if there are more than one we'll try only one of them.  Today, we sashayed over to the Longhorn Steakhouse at Park City Mall right here in Lancaster.  As we sat at the bar which is separated from the main restaurant area we were greeted by Jen who would be our bartender for the afternoon.  Jen has an outgoing type of personality, the kind you hope for in a bartender but amazingly only rarely find. She took care of us through our consumption of two craft brews and made her goodbyes at shift end while she transferred us to the next person on deck.

The name, Longhorn Steakhouse, has always made me envision massive grazing areas with longhorn steers happily meandering about while they munch on grass on a Texas or Oklahoma range until their number is up and they become nutrition for someone like me who is higher up on the food chain ladder.  I was surprised to find that this western type facility was founded by two guys from Atlanta, GA who just wanted to make and market the perfect steak.  While today's experience with just drinking beer won't allow us to pass judgement on the steaks, the few meals that were delivered to customers within our view definitely looked appetizing.  Next time I get an urge for some nice red meat this is where I'll be heading!

In just a couple of more days we'll be entering a new decade.  The two of us want to take the oporrtunity to wish all of our readers a Happy New Year and a Happy Decade to come.

Unitl next time......

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C'est La Vie, Lancaster - Bar # 186

First of all, to all of our readers, a wish from both of us for a very Merry Christmas!

Having originally hailed from Montréal, this half of The Retired Guys was thrilled for us to visit a Bistro modeled after a French hangout and what is a popular attraction in the old hometown.  One of the favorite past-times in the old Bistro’s of Montreal was sitting outside on the sidewalk and watching the public pass by in their variety of dress and style while enjoying a beer and perhaps a croissant.  For the judgemantal types this kind of visual atmosphere lends itself to much lively discussion!.  With the sliding glass doors and an awning at C’est La Vie, this summer will allow many here in Lancaster to enjoy that aspect of frequenting a Bistro.  I feel confident in saying that sitting outside on a warm summer evening watching passersby will give you a small taste of the typical French “Joie de vivre” that will be found to be most enjoyable.

While at the bar today, we were most adequately served by Justin who was gracious and liberal with samples before committing to a selection of craft beer.  There were 8 taps available and the selection was more than enough to satisfy even the most choosy type of beer drinker.

For more about “C’est La Vie”, read about it at: https://lancasteronline.com/business/local_business/french-bistro-c-est-la-vie-opens-in-part-of/article_af3eb06a-15dc-11ea-aa20-2b1d35d0c850.html. 

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Plough, Lancaster - Bar #185

Today The Retired Guys had another great afternoon exploring a new addition to the downtown Lancaster scene.  Plough, the latest enhancement to the Marriott Hotel on Penn Square, was again an enjoyable destination with craft beer selections on draft.  Everything about the place is done with class, as has been the pattern since the Marriott has taken over the former Watt and Shand location.

Our bartenders were Dakota and Kyle.  They were personable and set a welcoming and friendly tone for our visit.  While a hotel bar usually doesn’t have the local “regulars” we have come to enjoy meeting, speaking with our bartenders more than made up for that missing piece today.

An article in LNP is also a good place to read about one of the new attractions in the City of Lancaster.  You may use this LNP link.

As a public service message: PLEASE drink responsibly during the holiday season.  We all have many things to be thankful for and reasons to celebrate.  I am sure there are many who celebrate you.  Stay safe.  Be smart during your celebrations.

Until next time, CHEERS!

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Historic Revere Tavern, Paradise - Bar # 184

For the past one or two months the Retired Guys have been promising to shorten our writeups of bar visits since we finally recognized our limitations as writers.  Today's writer had full intention of honoring the plan but finds it difficult as we had such an enjoyable visit to the Revere Tavern in Paradise.  When we sat at the really old bar we were warmly welcomed by Hunter, our bartender for the day.  We immediately were treated to a history of the bar/restaurant and one of the intriguing things we were advised of was that the name Revere in the restaurant had more to do with the brand of cookware/cutlery used at the time.  Turns out it was manufactured by the famous Paul but had little, actually nothing to do with his famous ride.  

There were 4 beers on tap of which 3 were of the craft variety and in addition bottles were avaiable too.  We met Tina, another employee who clearly had a passion for helping people as she talked with enthusiasm of her past participation in the Cancer Walk fundraiser.  Seems she might be inclined to get re-involved with that worthy cause in the not too distant future.

Following our first beer, Hunter asked if we would be eating and suggested that since it was Taco Tuesday we would do well to give the Tacos a try.  Both of the Retired Guys agreed after our first bite that they were the best Tacos either of us has ever had!  Thanks Hunter for the suggestion and a special thanks to Lauren the chef for preparing them.  We'll definitely be back in the near future to try other food items to see if they match up.  Hunter recommended Monday wings night and we may take him up on that.

Sitting in Paradise it is easy to assume that the Revere Tavern is just another tourist trap.  My impression is lucky tourists and lucky us for having such a niceplace to visit locally that has such history and offers great food.  We get to enjoy it for 12 months unlike tourists who only get to it one time.  If it has been a while since you last visited, go again - it really is a quality place.

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The Blackworth Live Fire Grill, Lititz - Bar #183

They say Lititz is the coolest small town in the USA; I haven’t been to all the small towns, but Lititz has a new very cool pub/restaurant named Blackworth Live Fire Grill.  There is nothing else like it in Lititz.  The moment you walk in you feel the class of your surroundings and are greeted with a warm welcome from the staff.

The 10 drafts available are all quality craft beers and are backed up by an exceptional bottle selection.  Casey was serving us and was very attentive to our questions and made great comments and suggestions to aid our selection.  Even as the afternoon went on and the bar area filled, she handled everything smoothly and to the satisfaction of all of her patrons.  Casey’s cocktails looked amazing!


Once again I would refer you to a recent article in LNP spotlighting the opening.  The Retired Guys had another enjoyable afternoon in retirement at Blackworth and urge you to go try it for yourself.  We both give it a “Thumbs Up” and think you will agree.


Until next time, CHEERS!

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The Imperial Restaurant, Lancaster - Bar #182

There is another jewel in downtown Lancaster by the name of The Imperial Restaurant at the corner of East Chestnut and North Queen Streets.  Although it is quiet and comfortable on the inside, the large windows offer a great view of the city’s hustle and bustle going on outside.  There are days The Retired Guys feel the need to destress for everyone else and this is a great place to do just that.

There are only 6 taps, but 3 of them are local micro brews; always good to see a local business support local business.  Additionally, there is a great variety of bottled and canned beer to meet everyone’s preferred brew style.


The staff consisted of Patrick, the Bar Manager, and Andrew, the Assistant Manager. Both were knowledgeable about beer and from looking at the list of special cocktails, I would wager very good mixologists.  Their outward personality should make for an enjoyable time at The Imperial.

In knowing my strong points (drinking beer being one of the few) and my weak points (writing blogs), I would refer you to an article in LNP dated November 8 of last year for a more competently written description of one of the new and shining stars in downtown Lancaster.  I will say The Retired Guys enjoyed our afternoon at The Imperial and think you will too.

Until next time, CHEERS!

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Nonna Rosa Traditional Italian Kitchen, Akron - Bar # 181

The Retired Guys were out at our traditional time today, late afternoon, for a visit to the recently opened Nonna Rosa Traditional Italian Kitchen in Akron.  Upon entry we met Javier, one of the four owners of this resurected establishment and had a lengthy discussion with him about his restaurant, family, and heritage.  Javier is definitely someone you can enjoy speaking with as his infectious love of life shines through every one of his stories.  We learned that he is originally from Paraguay and wondered how he got involved in Italian food.  Turns out that behind this successful man is a woman of Sicilian heritage that he has wisely chosen to utilize the foods of her heritage.  

There were 10 craft beers on tap as well as a very well stocked refrigerator with an excellent choice of bottled beers to choose from if the draft selection didn't satisfy a particular taste.  We found out that all the pasta served is made in house so we chose to sample a dish of lasagna.  The first bite was enough to convince both of us that a return trip would be needed to really appreciate the food offerings available.  After fully consuming my share of the lasagna it was easy to declare it to be the up there with the best ever tasted and very likely the absolute best!  Clearly, we plan to return!

If you care to learn more about this restaurant from a writer with professional skills take a look at this link:  https://www.ephratareview.com/news/new-nonna-rosas-restaurant-off-to-a-great-start-in-akron/.

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Raney Cellars Brewing Company, Millersville - #180

Today the Retired Guys stayed right in their own backyard with a short drive to Raney Cellars Brewing Company in Millersville.  For a micro brew operation to be open only a week, they seem to have a faithful following already.  I must say, because of the high quality product they serve, The Retired Guys will definitely be going back.

Today's blog will be a slightly different format.  We enjoyed everything about our experience including the beer, atmosphere and meeting the brewmaster/owner, Sean.  However, I am including a link to a recent LNP article that sums up the story of Sean and Sarah Raney much better than I can.

I will say, go experience this new micro brew house and judge for yourself.  You won't be disappointed with the nice people who are making exceptional beer and serving it in pleasant surroundings.

Until next time, CHEERS!

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Union Barrel Works, Reamstown - Bar # 179

About 2-1/2 years ago we visited Union Barrel Works for the first time. (Actually, it was exactly 2-1/2 years ago.)  If you are a regular follower of this blog you may wonder if we have ever done a repeat before and I can tell you that yes we have but only once.  In that case as well as this it was because of a change in ownership.  

As old retired guys we can be somewhat reluctant to change our ways and so we did not embrace this trip as eagerly as is the norm.  To compound those feelings, on our way we were delayed by upwards of 15-20 minutes at a railroad crossing and then we encountered another delay due to ongoing highway construction, again about 15-20 minutes!  We were beginning to think that this was perhaps a bad decision.  Turns out any of those negative thoughts were flat out misplaced because our visit to the UBW Brewery in Reamstown was well worth the distance including the forced delay.

Upon entry to the Brewery we met Chasy who represents half of the husband/wife ownership of this entity.  She explained how they came to buy the establishment and how they are constantly trying to improve so as to keep their loyal customer base as well as bring in and keep new customers.  They have been at it for over a year now and see the business growing at a pace they can manage.

As you readers know, we go mainly for the beer but we also enjoy sampling the food.  The beer that we sampled was excellent!  There were 10 "normal" beers on tap accompanied by 2-3 rotating beers that are available for only short periods.  Chasy convinced me to try their "Sour" and I have to admit that I liked it enough to finish the sample (first sour ever that I could tolerate).  I generally favor IPAs and Lagers but may have been able to enjoy about 6oz of that sour.  Truly, our adventure over the past few years has expanded both of our palates for beer.  Each of the full glasses that we drank were excellent examples of great brews and we were both sorry that we forgot to bring our empty growlers along so as to take some home.

The appetizers we sampled were excellent as well.  We tried the fried pickles and the huge pretzel.  As mentioned, both were great but the beer mustard that accompanied the pretzel was possibly the best mustard ever tasted by this writer.  I would return for another shot at the beers and the food but would not be disappointed if upon arriving found out that only the mustard was available!  We are both looking forward to a return visit to try a full course meal with beer of course some evening in the next month or so.

UBW Brewery is a bit of a ride from our home base of Lancaster but well worth the time.  If you go, be sure to bring along a DD (Designated Driver) so that you can safely enjoy a few beers and don't forget your growler to take some home to enjoy the next day or two.

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Lombardo's Restaurant, Lancaster - Bar #178

Today was a perfect example of why it is good to be a Retired Guy and why one of Lancaster's tried and true restaurants has been so successful and an icon in dining out in Lancaster.

Today The Retired Guys stopped at Lombardo's Restaurant on Harrisburg Avenue in the city.  From the moment we walked in we were created cheerfully by Christina and welcomed as if family.  She was eager to match us with a beer of our liking and even introduced us to a special brew from their own roasted chestnuts and crafted by Fetish Brewing in Lititz.  It was very good, but adhering to the old "when in Rome" saying, I opted for the Peroni beer instead.

Christina, our server, was not the only staff who makes Lombardo's a great place.  We were on our stools no longer than 3 minutes when John, the Executive Chef, stopped by and introduced himself.  What an asset to the organization he is and quite the beer aficionado too!  We got to talk beer, breweries and food.  It was like discussing the positive points of heaven.  John also explained how he has recently switched to all in-house made fresh pasta.  That convinced us to try spaghetti and meatballs.  Bottom line: we are now hooked and reeled in.  Great!  Of course, the sauce is the same wonderful Lombardo's sauce it has always been.

I could go on and on about what we enjoyed this afternoon.  The staff: Christina, John and General Manager James are amazing and will help you create some terrific dining experiences.  Everyone should go try it for themselves.  You'll be amazed.  What is old is new again.

Until next time: CHEERS!


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Jethro's Restaurant & Bar, Lancaster - Bar # 177

Jethro's Restaurant & Bar has been a city eating anchor since it's opening on groundhog day in 1978.  This quaint neighborhood locale has been managed and owned by Bob and Jennifer Esbenshade since they purchased it in 1992.  The pair actually met there as employees then later married and bought it!

As I believe we have mentioned in previous blogs our affinity for a bar has grown beyond the number of beers on tap and evolved to be one of enjoying the feeling of being at home surrounded by familiar and friendly faces while enjoying a brew.  The friendliness factor comes first from the face behind the bar and then from the customers we are priviledged to sit beside and gab a bit with.  Today, The Retired Guys got to visit a little bit of bar heaven as we enjoyed meeting and talking with the earlier mentioned bartender, Bob and an assistant as well as a couple of Bar/Restaurant regulars.  There were two beers on tap both being of the craft variety and of course a full bar to satisfy the desires of those who prefer to enjoy a cocktail or glass of wine with their meal.

Since the bar opens only at 5:00PM, we arrived there basically at dinnertime. As we consumed our first beer and continued our conversation with Bob he suggested that we try the special of the day - Chicken and Waffles.  So far, we have never been disappointed with a food suggestion from a bar employee and we felt even more secure with it coming from one of the owners.  Well, was it good you may ask.  It was good enough to convince us a return visit is in the cards in the near future!, Our feeling was that if this is the quality of a "basic" dish we are looking forward to sampling something a little more sophisticated.  

If you've never been, or if it has been a while since your last visit get over there and enjoy an excellent dinner served by friendly and outgoing staff.

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The Exchange, Lancaster - Bar #176

Only one word went through our minds as we stepped off the elevator at The Exchange in downtown Lancaster; WOW!  The views of the city are breathtaking and the first class design of the venue gave us the feeling of being somewhere special.  Of course, Mother Nature contributed with the rain that produced the above rainbow for everyone’s viewing pleasure.

As we entered the vestibule off East King Street, we were greeted by smiling staff who welcomed us and directed the way to the elevators that would carry us to the 12^th floor.  Even with The Exchange only being open for 5 weeks, every aspect seemed to operate without a glitch.  The staff was welcoming, engaging and eagerly performed their duties professionally.  Mike, Buckels and Brenton were behind the bar and very personable from the moment we walked in.  They provided the type of service that brings people back.  Mike even shared his recipe for an “Old Fashioned”.

Oh, yes!  The beer!  While the beer selection is a bit limited compared to some tap setups, the variety compliments the food selections perfectly.  Speaking of food, we enjoyed a margarita pizza with a thin, crispy crust, mozzarella cheese and tasty sauce.

The Exchange has pulled together many of the things The Retired Guys have come to appreciate while on our trip around Lancaster County bars.  The atmosphere is casual and promotes personal interaction among you and your friends.  The appointments of the various sitting areas are comfortable and relaxing.  The staff obviously enjoys their job and creates a place that we want to return.  The Exchange may not be the top of the world, but it is the top of Lancaster and that affords a pretty cool view.

Until next time, CHEERS!

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Stoll & Wolfe Distillery, Lititz - Bar # 175

July is a 5 Tuesday month so The Retired Guys made it out on our continuing adventure three times this month and visited our 175th bar - Stoll & Wolfe Distillery.  As all of our readers know, we are retired (and on the older side) so we tend to get to bars a little early in the afternoon and today was no exception.  We arrived just at opening time and were met outside by Tobias, the bar manager and our bartender for the day.

While Stoll & Wolfe is known for its production of spirits, they do have an ever changing set of 4 taps of craft beers and we were able to quench each of our thirsts by trying two of them.  Tobias was knowledgeable of the beers and had no problem explaining the flavor nuance of each.  Additionally, we were each treated to a tiny sample of one of the spirits which resulted in a purchase of a top shelf bottle of bourbon.

We noted that Tobias was a naturally outgoing person and made each of the bar patrons feel welcome and at home.  He provided us with an overview of the history of spirit manufacture in the area from the beginning and a detailed history of the Stoll & Wolfe brand.  We were treated by watching as cocktails were made right in front of us and became convinced that we would try to develop a new passion when we have completed our beer quest.  That new passion will be to seek out the best cocktail drink in the Lancaster area!

Tobias explained that Stoll & Wolfe does scheduled tastings of its products and also teams up with local vendors such as cheese or meat suppliers to enhance the experience.  Their schedule is posted on their Facebook page for anyone to find and plan an outing.

Our experience today was thoroughly enjoyable from the start and we determined quickly that this is a venue definitely worth returning to, especially during one of their special events!  If you want to enjoy a cocktail or just stay with beer, we encourage you to make your way to Lititz and give this place a try!

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