The Tipsy Boar, Lancaster - Bar # 161

The Retired Guys returned to the same physical location we have been before, but this time with new owners, management and staff.  The Tipsy Boar has taken over the building that was formerly The Crazy Tomato on Centerville Road in Lancaster.  It is still a bit difficult to navigate in and out of the parking lot, but we found it was worth the effort because of the beer selection, quality of food we sampled and the friendly staff.

Looking at the beer selection; they have 40 to choose from.  Everything from the mainstream light varieties to major national beers to stouts, porters, microbrews and even ciders are on tap and available to refresh whatever your taste buds are craving.  It can be a bit overwhelming trying to make a decision when looking at the large listing behind the bar or the available paper copy.  The Retired Guys were up to the challenge and made choices that validated our ability to quench our thirst in the middle of the afternoon.

Shay, our bartender, was welcoming and had an Arkansas drawl that made you feel like a friend from the very beginning.  Although she admitted she is not much of a beer drinker, she knew her products, what was popular among the customers and made the effort to match you with a draft of your taste.  Beyond the dispensing of beer, what really makes Shay a good bartender is her talent of conversation and outgoing personality.

Our appetizer selection was ribeye spring rolls.  They were very tasty and when dipped in the accompanying sauce, had just the right kick to encourage another swig of beer.  Another patron had a brisket sandwich he enjoyed and looked pretty darn good too.  It is a safe bet The Retired Guys will return and sample more of this pub's menu.

Another great experience on an afternoon filled with good conversation and beer.

Until next time, CHEERS!

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Piccola Italian Bistro, Kinzers - Bar # 160

Well, it has been about 2-1/2 months since the Retired Guys last outing and within 5 minutes of entering the Piccola Italian Bistro in Kinzers, PA we knew it was worth the wait!  Actually the picture above says all that is needed to describe our experience today.  But, as regular readers of our blog already know, more is about to be written.  Please hang in there as Piccola Bistro is a true gem.

Upon entering, we were warmly welcomed by Nicole (owner) and Julie (day bartender).  We received a little history of the place and found out that Nicole is the 2nd generation owner, following in her parents' footsteps.  It used to be known as Kinzers Station but suffered a fire and was finally reopened in January of 2019 under the new name after significant refurbishment .  

This is one of the newer license establishments that sells made in PA only alchoholic beverages.  Ten years ago that may have been too limiting but now with all the excellent craft beer and spirits manufacturers opening locally and elsewhere within the state it is easy to find quality beverages that in many cases easily exceed the legacy offerings of the old time bars.  As dedicated beer drinkers, we focused on the 6 taps available and tried ones entirey new to us.  With samples being readily available, there was no risk to our adventure so we did indeed move beyond our normal comfort zones.

Well into our first selection, Aundraya came from the kitchen and introduced herself as the chef.  She described some of her appetizers and recommended a couple of them which we ordered.  Additionally, we were offered a sample of the evening's special of Spaghetti Tacos with shells made of only Parmesan cheese.  After sampling our three apps we were convinced that a return visit would be in order and pretty soon too.  We noted and want to share that today's experience caused us to rate Piccola Italian Bistro in the top two of all the places we have visited and a firm first based on the sampling of food.  If you have never been, GO!  If you have already been I'm guessing you need no further encouragement to return.

Toward the end of our visit, we met Amanda who is the bar manager.  That made four in a row who had the kind of personality that makes you feel welcome and wanting this to be the bar where "everybody knows your name". 

Fair to say that our return from out of town trips has started off in a great way!

To see all the places we have been to, just click on one of the selections below:

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