Character's Pub: Acing the Gourmet Burger

Character's Pub, located at 38 North Christian Street in downtown Lancaster, Pennsylvania is known for it's great after-work atmosphere, smooth drinks, and scrumptious gourmet burgers. It is known between my friends and I as one of the best places to get a fabulous angus burger in a nice restaurant atmosphere.

Open Tuesday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., and Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., most entrees run between $13 and $18. While reservations are not accepted, you can always call ahead (717-735-7788) to check how long the wait is. Friday nights can get pretty busy, so allow time for a 30-45 minute wait.

I have visited Character's Pub on several occasions, and it's always a hit with the after-work crowd to grab a drink with fellow Lancastrians in a pleasant, but not too stiff atmosphere. There are many options for appetizers, entrees, and salads. Don't forget to load up on many excellent brews offered on tap, or your regular bar well drinks.

Character's also offers a patio area that is enclosed for those diners who like to be exposed to the elements. The view isn't the best, mostly of surrounding concrete and brick buildings and a parking lot, but the patio area itself is nice and comfortable.

Indoor seating feels a bit cramped due to the bar atmosphere that takes up nearly half of the restaurant. People are always flowing about meeting their friends for some drinks, so you can expect the pub to always be lively and entertaining with diners.

Character's is best known for the fabulous gourmet angus burgers. You can choose from a variety of toppings, and no one around Lancaster can beat them for the best tasting gourmet burger around. If you like a good custom burger, the organic angus beef burger is the item to order.

Service is normally fast and friendly, but it's best to visit Character's during the week and at off dining times for quick seating and service. Otherwise, you can almost guarantee a wait and a crowded atmosphere.

For a typical pub scene, Character's brings a little class to the bar restaurants of it's competitors. Enjoy a drink, a bite, and don't forget to relax.