Mention the word “underground” to a NYC dweller and their mind is likely to jump straight to the subway. Now, dining down there is something we’re certainly not interested in, but if you were to tell us we could dine in a historic underground catacombs restaurant, you could say our interest was piqued. The good news: you can do exactly that! Though you’ll have to be willing to embark on a little road trip…
Hidden several stories underground in Mount Joy, Pennsylvania, just about three hours from NYC, is The Catacombs Restaurant, a restaurant that’s unlike anything we’ve ever seen before. Those looking to have a bit of an out-of-the-box dining experience will descend 43 feet underground into the stone-lined vaults of the Catacombs. You’ll receive a tour of the space on your way and, if you’re lucky, you may even hear a ghost story or two!
Once there, you’ll find a unique upscale dining experience with a diverse menu including a variety of traditional and gourmet dishes, handcrafted cocktails, and house brewed beer in an unmatched ambiance. Small plates include dishes along the likes of Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms and Bruschetta before moving onto larger dishes such as Brewhouse Surf and Turf, Pork Tomahawk, Stuffed Chicken Breast, and Creamy Mushroom Risotto.
Items are certainly a bit on the pricey side, though they’re not unlike anything we’re used to in NYC. Plus, you’re certainly paying for the experience as a whole–the space reminds us of this massive cavern that’s 156 feet below the Earth’s surface in upstate NY!
The Catacombs Restaurant is part of the 19th century brewery complex, Bube’s Brewery. The brewery dates back to 1876, when brewing apprentice Alois Bube first purchased the brewery in Mount Joy. Over the years, the brewery expanded several times and eventually went on to encompass a Victorian hotel as well to accommodate overnight guests and offer dining to travelers passing through Mount Joy. By the turn of the century, Bube had a very successful business and his reputation as a good brewer had spread far and wide.
Bube died suddenly in 1908, and though his brewery has closed just prior to Prohibition in 1920, members of his family were able to live there until the 1960s, changing nothing. Restoration of the complex began in 1968 and, as it stands today, is the result of Alois Bube’s life’s work.
Beyond The Catacombs Restaurant, those that visit can also check out The Bottling Works, a restaurant and tavern in the original bottling plant of Bube’s Brewery and, of course, the Brewery itself!
The Catacombs Restaurant is open Wednesday through Sunday. Reservations are recommended, and you can make yours and learn more on Bube’s Brewery’s website.
📍 102 N Market St, Mount Joy, PA