by Bob MacGinnes

By reputation alone, in this particular case, and by a common-sense approach that more people dine on weekends than the early part of the week, we chose a Tuesday night to visit the legendary Boiling Springs Tavern. We wanted to be able to savor the meal as well
as the local flavor.

Taverns conjure up a historical frame of reference, dating back hundreds of years to colonial America — and of a central eating area placed around an open hearth fire where fine food is feasted upon and heavy vessels of meat and ale are quaffed down by road-weary travelers. A place that provides a much-needed respite for the hungry and thirsty is just such a haven as the Boiling Springs Tavern. This pub is idyllically situated on the Yellow Breeches and absolutely lends itself to romantic notions of "highwaymen and heroines." After all, the Tavern dates back to 1832 and is one of many historical landmarks in Boiling Springs. It is ideally situated at First and Front Streets, the hub of activity for the town, and is perfect for a public meeting house. That, by definition, is what tavern means, in addition to providing the setting where food is enjoyed and spirits imbibed. The bar area was of a gregarious nature – friendly and warm; since it was a blustery March night, I looked immediately to the fireplace. I half expected to be greeted at the door by a powdered-wigged proprietor, sporting knee breeches and waist coat – alas, such was not the case. Our table, one of 20 or so, (the main dining area seats about 100) faced the enclosed fireplace and set a romantic mood for the evening.

We started off with an appetizer Speidino ($4.95) which is a lightly-baked Tuscan toast done with tomato sauce and topped with mozzarella cheese; it was delicious and flavorful. My wife, Jana, had a glass of Cabernet Sauvignon since she was going to order veal as her entree. The wine list was extensive and wines ranged from the world over. Her wine was hearty and full-bodied; her only disappointment was that the glass was served half full.

The entree list was well-rounded and offered up a bakers dozen of taste-tempting delights from Santa Fe Shrimp done in Southwestern spices; Chicken Mamou, a spicy Louisiana tomato sauce; Veal and Andouille Sausage in a honey Cajun cream sauce. Entrees range from $12.95 to $19.95.

I chose the Grilled Chicken Breast lightly dusted with herbs ($12.95) which was grilled to perfection. The herbs are seared right into the breast, and it is tenderly served on a bed of grilled vegetables, which included snow peas, zucchini, and red potatoes. I wanted a light, satisfying meal, and I got my wish – done to perfection.

My wife chose the Peppercrusted Veal Tenderloin with port wine and mushrooms ($17.95) served with a delightful red pepper and beautifully arranged vegetables. The wine sauce was caramelized, giving the veal and vegetables both a slightly sweet taste which hit the palate just right. She was in heaven the rest of the evening. With no room for one of their exotic desserts, we complimented our server, Beth Ann, for her impeccable service and thanked our gracious hosts, Geoff (and Debi) Keith, and happily paid our bill – the total for the evening, including tip, came to $55.

The Boiling Springs Tavern is not your typical tavern – it is a romantic getaway, off the beaten path and the surrounding scenery is picturesque, to say the least. It is well placed at First and Front Streets and easy to get to from Harrisburg and any West Shore locale. It is worth the half-hour drive just to get away from it all. The candlelight tables are romantic; the food is a few notches above regular tavern food; and the prices and portions are fair. The meal and conversation took 90 minutes, the perfect time to unwind and discover the beauty of historic Boiling Springs.

The Boiling Springs Tavern has been serving fine food and drink for 165 years now, and judging by how busy they are on a Tuesday night, I’m glad we didn’t wait ‘till the weekend – it is a perfect mid-week getaway on Tuesday night or any night.

Wait (to be seated): None

Wait (for service): None

Lighting: Romantic

Meal-time Music: Jazz

Dining Area

Appearance: Well tended to

Noise: Light Chatter

Climate: Fine

Tables: Heavy Wood

Chairs: Large

Booths: None

Table Setting: Full with cloth napkins

Your Meal: Entree from Dinner Menu

Appetizers: Very Creative

Salads: House Specialty

Dressings: House Specialty

Vegetables: House Specialty

Desserts: N/a

Coffees: House & Cappuccino/Espresso

Staff Attitude: Friendly

Staff Appearance: Dress Uniform

Hospitality: Felt at Home

Cleanliness: Excellent

Wash Rooms: Clean

Crowd (Qty): Busy

Crowd (Attitude): Casual

Food (portions): Satisfied

Food (prices): Fair

Overall Service: Attentive

Payment Accepted: All Major Credit Cards

Exceptions: No Checks Accepted

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