Gettysburg is a town built on history, and among all of the legend-tinged architecture and landmarks in the area, The Parrot stands tall with scores of stories to tell.
In the Beginning
The Parrot’s origins are rooted back to the pre-Civil War era in 1850. Mrs. Schwartz’s Oyster Parlor popped up and served patrons from one of the first buildings in the town for eight years. When the Oyster Parlor closed shop, the building became a private residence for a time.
In Times of War
As the Civil War came to a crossroads in the small town of Gettysburg, the private residence became a resting spot for surgeons working hard to heal the wounded in the trenches. While the Battle of Gettysburg only lasted three days, the cleanup and mending was a long and exhausting process.
In Happier Times
In 1868, the building was reinvented as the town candy shoppe. E.H. Minnigh put smiles on the faces of those who stopped in to satisfy their sweet tooth with delicious confections until 1903. Even after he passed, the sugary goodness remained a staple just west of the town center.
Highway Hot Spot
With the growth of the Lincoln Highway running directly through the town and right in front of the store, a new image was needed. Following a remodel, The Blue Parrot Tea Room opened for business in 1920. Word spread all over the country as The Blue Parrot Tea Room set the bar high for sophisticated afternoon dining, and travelers passing stopped in to experience the high-class establishment for themselves.
From Day to Night
With increased traffic, the tea room grew into the Adam’s House Tavern, serving the night crowds with local ales for decades. In 1988, the building was purchased with a passion to keep the history alive. The Blue Parrot Bistro was named in honor of the tea room days, but with a fresh and fanciful menu.
History in the Making
This past year commenced another chapter in the life of The Parrot chronicles. As Gus Zucco and Hilary Styer-Zucco have taken the wheel, they have built on the true authenticity of this beautiful town. This new iteration of The Parrot calls upon all of its history: the casual fun of a candy shop, the lovely presentation and atmosphere of fine dining and the neighborhood feel of a local watering hole. The Zuccos are modernizing restaurant’s roots with local brew offerings paired with chef Leo Tazza’s plates, crafted with ingredients from nearby farms. These fresh flavors are bringing in new guests, while the tried-and-true recipes keep the loyal patrons coming back for everything from special occasions to just a fun night out on the town.
The stories within the walls continue to grow. Dining at The Parrot makes you part of the history that carries on!
Find The Parrot at 35 Chambersburg St. in Gettysburg; phone: (717) 337-3739.
- Photos: courtesy of The Parrot
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