You’ve probably driven past it a dozen times if you’re heading through Berks County. It’s that massive three-story building sitting right on West State Street in Hamburg. From the outside, it looks like a sturdy relic of Pennsylvania’s industrial past—which it actually is—but inside, Westy Bar & Grill is basically the heartbeat of the local social scene.
Honestly, it’s refreshing. In an era where every new bar feels like it was designed by a corporate committee to be "Instagrammable," Westy’s feels lived-in. It’s got that specific, unpretentious Pennsylvania vibe. You know the one. High ceilings, wooden accents, and the faint, glorious smell of wings frying in the back.
What Most People Get Wrong About the History
A lot of folks think this place was always just a bar. Not even close. The building dates back to 1870, originally constructed as the National Hotel by John Williams and Solomon Seaman. It’s lived a hundred lives. It’s been a mercantile store, a post office, and even a makeshift town hall where residents voted before the official township building went up in the 70s.
Today, Bob and Pam Franklin run the show. They’ve managed to keep that "neighborhood living room" feel while serving some of the most consistent food in the Hamburg area. It’s big, too. We’re talking three floors big, though the action mainly centers on the dining spaces and the bar that seems to always have a game on.
The Menu: It’s More Than Just Pub Grub
If you go to a place called a bar and grill and don't order wings, are you even doing it right? Westy’s claims to have the largest wings in Berks County. That’s a bold statement in a region that takes its poultry seriously.
They offer about 23 different flavors. The Hot Honey is the sleeper hit here. It’s thicker than you’d expect—almost a BBQ consistency—and it actually brings the heat instead of just being sugary.
What to actually order:
- The Baked Mozzarella: Don't think stringy sticks from a freezer bag. This is more like a garlic bread pizza hybrid. It’s massive.
- The King Burger: An 8 oz pub burger topped with bacon and an over-easy egg. It’s messy. It’s aggressive. It’s perfect.
- The Pierogies: You're in PA. It’s a law. They’re fried golden brown and served with marinara, which might feel like a crime to some purists, but it works.
- Middle Neck Clams: Surprisingly meaty and a local favorite, especially on Wednesday nights when the specials kick in.
The Entertainment Factor
Saturday nights are usually loud. In a good way. They host live bands that actually draw a crowd, and Thursday is the designated karaoke night. If you’re looking for a quiet, romantic candlelit dinner, Thursday at Westy’s probably isn’t your vibe. But if you want to see your neighbor belt out "Neon Moon" while you work through a pint of Yuengling, you’re in the right place.
The bar stays open late—until midnight most nights and 2 AM on the weekends. It’s one of the few spots in the area where the "late-night food" promise isn't just a suggestion.
🔗 Read more: Ramada by Wyndham Austin South: Why This Budget Spot Stays So Busy
A Few Realities to Keep in Mind
Look, no place is perfect. If you go on a Friday night during a home game or a holiday weekend, the service can slow down. It’s a popular spot and the kitchen works hard, but physics is physics. Sometimes the fries can be a bit hit-or-miss depending on how slammed they are.
Also, the parking lot is behind the building. It’s big, but it fills up fast. If you can't find a spot, you’ll end up on the street, which isn't a huge deal but something to know before you circle the block three times.
📖 Related: Downtown Taos New Mexico: Why Most People Never Actually Find the Real Heart of Town
Actionable Takeaways for Your Visit
- Check the Calendar: If you want a deal, Sunday is the day for bone-in wings (usually around $10.99 for a dozen with a drink purchase).
- Ask for Ashley: Several regulars swear by her service. If she’s on shift, you’re in good hands.
- Go Big on Appetizers: The "Assorted Sampler" is the move if you’re with a group. It’s got corn nuggets, battered mushrooms, and mozzarella sticks. It’s a fried food symphony.
- Local Brews: They keep a solid rotation of drafts like Conshohocken Brewing and Rusty Rail. Check the Untappd boards near the bar for the latest hazy IPAs or seasonal stouts.
Westy Bar & Grill is located at 279 West State Street, Hamburg, PA. They are closed on Mondays, so don't show up then expecting a burger. Tuesday through Sunday, they open at 11:00 AM.
Plan your trip for a Wednesday if you’re a seafood fan for the peel-and-eat shrimp special, or hit a Saturday night if you want the full-blown live music experience. Just make sure you bring an appetite—the portions here are sized for people who have been working outside all day.