SIZE

5,309 sf

Celebrating the History of The Wilbur Chocolate Factory
Through an Old-World Dining Experience

Lititz, Pennsylvania is celebrated for its small town charm and historic roots. Included in that history is The Wilbur Chocolate Factory, dating back to 1903, which became a beloved community landmark. In 2016, Wilbur shuttered the factory, and community supporters rallied for a new use for the unoccupied building. Developers proposed an adaptive reuse project including a new hotel, residential condominiums, food hall and a new restaurant.

We Listen

Local restaurateurs jumped at the opportunity to reconceptualize their successful Lebanon, PA restaurant, The Foundry, into a must-visit destination in the renovated building. Warehaus worked closely with the Hoovers to understand their vision for the new restaurant – fresh, rustic, wholesome food that is cooked to perfection over an open flame.

We Design

A wood-fired oven, visible to all guests through an open kitchen, was central to the Hoovers’ vision. Additionally, the design of the 130-seat restaurant sought to celebrate the historic elements of the space – the original brick walls, wood columns and flooring. Blackworth combines raw elements of the old factory with contemporary mid-century and art deco elements. The bar, a key space for gathering, is visible through the front windows of the building, giving a few into the restaurant from the town’s main corridor. A seating area toward the back of the restaurant can be closed off from other patrons, offering options for private dining space.

We Deliver

The restaurant opened to much fanfare in late 2019 and has been bustling ever since. The entire Wilbur complex is a source of pride and excitement to the Lititz community.

Photo Credit Suzette Wenger | LNP/LancasterOnline