General Sutter Inn, home to The Bulls Head in Lititz, is set to undergo a major transformation in the upcoming months.
When Susan and David Stoudt purchased the restaurant last March, they promised to invest in the physical property and the employees. Now, as promised, the Sutter Restaurant, a forever-favorite in the Downtown Lititz dining scene, will receive a full makeover that will include more seating, a large bar area and updated finishes, fixtures, furniture and artwork.
They’ve decided to make these changes in different phases.
Phase 3 is currently in progress, which is the complete makeover of the existing dining room and hotel lounge, which are both original to the General Sutter Inn. Demolition started the day after Memorial Day with a projected finish at the end of July.
The ultimate goal of the renovation is to create a more modern space that is “craft cocktail”-forward and a notch more upscale. With the new renovations, the General Sutter will offer an enhanced wine inventory and “by the glass” options to attract and appeal to a wider spectrum of patrons. They will also be splitting the tap lines from The Bulls Head to bring the entire beer selection up to the new lounge.
The first two phases of the project were completed earlier this spring. During Phase 1, now complete, ownership focused on subtle improvements to their employees’ working conditions and benefit offerings. The Stoudts also focused on the general safety and working conditions within the kitchen, and added a healthcare option for employees who needed this service. Phase 2 included refurbishing and creating two new suites on the second floor of the hotel, and installing air conditioning throughout the entire second floor.
Phase 4 is currently being designed and will be the complete rework of the General Sutter patio located at the square in Lititz. A permanent full-service bar structure will be centered on the patio. Emphasis is placed on patrons’ comfort in this outdoor space. Strategic sun protection, fans and heating elements have been designed into the space. David Stoudt and his team hope to roll out the new patio for the 2019 season.
You can find The Bulls Head and The General Sutter Inn at 14 E. Main St. in Lititz; phone: (717) 626-2115.
- Photos: General Sutter Inn
