COLUMBIA, PA - Tucked into the historic Susquehanna rivertown of Columbia at 647 Union St, Columbia, PA 17512, Bully's Restaurant & Pub is far more than your typical neighborhood tavern—it is a genuine piece of Lancaster County history. Housed in a beautifully restored brick building built in 1903 as a railroad hotel, the establishment operates as a full-service restaurant, pub, and bed & breakfast.
Stepping through the front doors feels like stepping back in time. The dining room and tavern are anchored by hammered tin ceilings, exposed brick, and an original, hand-carved 1903 bar built specifically for the hotel. Renamed "Bully's" in deference to President Theodore Roosevelt's famous catchphrase—"Have a bully day!"—the pub brings the best of local rivertown history together with modern, upscale-casual comfort food.
Outstanding Haddock Fish & Chips, Comfort Food, and Craft Beer
While the historic Victorian atmosphere draws you in, the kitchen and bar are what turn first-timers into regulars. Bully's is celebrated for serving American entrees that elevate traditional pub classics into award-winning comfort dishes.
- The Haddock Fish and Chips: On my visit, the Haddock fish and chips were nothing short of outstanding. The fish arrived piping hot with a light, golden-crisp batter that let the tender, flaky Haddock shine without feeling heavy or greasy.
- Dietary-Friendly Variety: Whether you are looking for light tavern fare, hearty entrees, or scratch-made soups, the menu offers a wide range of choices designed to suit various dietary needs, including thoughtful gluten-free options.
- The Beer & Cocktail Program: Behind the historic wooden bar, Bully's boasts one of the largest and finest selections of craft, micro, and imported beers in the area. Coupled with well-mixed cocktails and fine wines, it is an ideal spot to relax with a drink.
Awesome Bartenders, Historic Hospitality, and The Inn Upstairs
What truly sets Bully's apart from standard hotel dining rooms is the genuine, family-owned hospitality. Even during a busy dinner service, the bartender was awesome—warm, knowledgeable, and so friendly, making you feel like a welcomed regular the moment you take a stool at the bar.
For travelers looking to turn dinner into a weekend getaway, The Inn at Bully's upstairs offers 11 well-appointed, private guest rooms that replace standard corporate hotel stays with a memorable, cozy bed & breakfast experience (complete with continental breakfast included for overnight guests).
The Verdict
Bully's Restaurant & Pub effortlessly combines over a century of Lancaster County history with outstanding American comfort fare and welcoming pub hospitality. Between the historic 1903 railroad tavern atmosphere, the crispy Haddock fish and chips, an extensive craft beer list, and bartenders who treat you like family, this Union Street landmark is one of Columbia's absolute best-kept dining secrets.
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