Tied House, the once-buzzworthy restaurant and event space in the heart of Lititz, has officially announced the closing of its doors. The establishment, known for its locally sourced cuisine and craft beer selection, had been a staple of the Lititz dining scene since its opening. For those familiar, the Tied House was a part of the St. Boniface Brewing Company brand, which was sold to Pour Man’s Brewing earlier this. year.
The reasons for the closure remain officially undisclosed, as well as resulted in confusion from local patrons. In May of 2024 they posted an image on social media containing the following text.
WITH THE SALE OF SAINT BONIFACE WE WANT TO CLARIFY ANY MISCONCEPTIONS ABOUT WHAT IS HAPPENING WITH TIED HOUSE. WE ARE OPEN FOR BUSINESS AS USUAL AND WILL CONTINUE TO PROVIDE GREAT FOOD AND DRINKS FOR YOU AND YOUR FRIENDS. TIED HOUSE IS FOR SALE BUT WE ARE NOT GOING OUT OF BUSINESS OR CLOSING THE DOORS. WE CANNOT BEGIN TO COMMUNICATE HOW MUCH WE APPRECIATE ALL OF YOUR SUPPORT THROUGH THE YEARS AND WE LOOK FORWARD TO SEEING YOU SOON!
Fast forward just a few months later and from seemingly out of nowhere a contradictory announcement from above was made of the business just closing it’s doors without much notice.
A Controversial Past
In 2021, Tied House found itself in the center of a community uproar when it agreed to host an event for the Mid Atlantic Reformation Society. The group, known for its ties to white nationalism and Christian extremism, drew significant backlash from locals and beyond. The decision to host the event led to protests, boycotts, and a severe strain on the restaurant’s reputation.
While the event itself did not directly cause the closure, it undoubtedly contributed to a negative public image and may have alienated potential customers. The controversy highlighted a broader conversation about the role of businesses in community spaces and the ethical implications of hosting certain groups.
A Community in Transition
The closing of Tied House marks a significant change for the Lititz community. The restaurant was more than just a dining establishment; it was a gathering place for locals and visitors alike. Its absence will undoubtedly be felt.