I always hesitate going to a new place, there are often issues that take a while to work out. However, I saw a big article in the paper about the grand opening of Boxcar Brewpub in West Chester and decided to give it a try.

Although Boxcar was ready, West Chester Borough was not. They had bags over the parking meters in the block where the pub is and for two more blocks. The bag said no parking between 8 p.m. and 6 a.m.

We were there at 6 p.m. which should have been a time we could park according to their own notices, but there was no way to put money in the meter. This is yet another problem they have in West Chester with parking.

With all of the great attractions they have going you would think the Borough could keep pace, support the businesses and welcome visitors and residents.

Back to the pub. When you come in the front door you are immediately in the bar. There are two distinct areas inside. The first level is the bar itself, which has a few high tables with high stools.

Even though there were 3 people at the bar and 4 others at a high table, there was a fair amount of noise. If you want a lower table you have to go down to what I would call the entertainment area.

This is set up almost like a theatre with very comfortable chairs on one side of each long table and benches with their back to the stage area. Boxcar does schedule entertainment from time to time. They also provide small games on each table to keep folks and kids occupied, which is a nice feature.

There are other electronic games in various locations as well. Since they want to encourage families to come to the pub this is a very nice way to do it. The bar area is very nice, clean and inviting.

When it comes to food this is mostly a pub, so what you have is pub food. There’s a nice selection of appetizers, small plates, flat bread and just a few regular entrees.

I went for the Chicken Milanese ($14). This was very nicely done panko crusted chicken breast with pan gravy and a very nice salad piled on top made of fresh greens with a balsamic reduction sauce. The portion was just right and the whole plate was very good.

Lin got Shrimp and grits ($15). Again, it was a nice portion size and included Castle Valley mill grits, jumbo gulf shrimp, summer ale sauce and andouille sausage. I had to help Lin a little so I can attest to the fact that it was also very good.

Lin skipped the beverages and stayed with water while I tried their very own Irish-style Coal Runner Stout on nitro. The nitro makes for a nice smooth delivery and taste with a large foamy head.

The alcohol content is just 4.1%. I would say if you like Guinness you will most definitely like Boxcar’s version. My preference in stouts is for a little more distinctive flavor, but it was quite refreshing and satisfying on a hot summer night.

We had a very nice waitress who was quite pleasant and helpful.

While Boxcar Brewpub is new to the scene in West Chester from my view point they are a very welcome addition. If they can add a few more entrees to the menu that would be even better.

They are right at 142 East Market Street, which is a very busy location and parking can be tricky, but it is definitely worth the effort and a nice treat.

By the way, July 21^st and 22^nd they are having a 5 course tasting menu for $50 per person. This is a great opportunity to try this new brew pub and get a nice sample of their brews and what they can do in the kitchen.

You will need to either share the drinks or make sure you have a designated driver.

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A native of Chester County and a 1968 graduate of Octorara Area High School, David Jones earned a Masters Degree in Medical Ethics from from Villanova University. Mr. Jones served as CEO of both Mayview and Wernersville State Hospitals and later worked directly with then Governor Rendell to modernize and right-size Pennsylvania’s entire state hospital system. Jones and his wife Lynn make their home in Parkesburg and dine out frequently across Chester County and the Delaware Valley.