Shenandoah, PA is home to many historical buildings that are landmarks in the community. The Lyric Restaurant and Bar, formerly the Lyric Theatre located at the corner of Jardin St. and Centre St. is a local icon. Opened in 1913, It accommodated 480 people who enjoyed live performances. As a matter of fact, there is an original booth in the restaurant dedicated to Hollywood legends, Humphrey Bogart and Lauren Bacall who spent time there. 

Today, The Lyric is a family-friendly restaurant with new owners who want to continue to celebrate and honor the history of the building. When you walk through the door, it’s like walking back in time. There are old photographs and records lining the walls providing a warm, nostalgic welcome.

“The Lyric building is a beautiful piece of history and we hope to continue honoring this history,” said owner, Ruth Williams. Our plan is to make the Lyric enjoyable and pleasant and for every patron to have a great experience. If I can make one person smile every day, it’s a good day,” she said.

Ruth and Dwight Williams and their two sons, Aiden and Jeffrey took a “leap of faith”. Right before the pandemic hit, they purchased the Lyric and relocated from Philadelphia to Shenandoah. Dwight who attended Schuylkill Valley School District still has family ties to Shenandoah. Through the years, during visits, they drove past the Lyric and Ruth fell in love with the building, especially the balcony. “Every time we turned the corner the balcony would put me into a daze,” she said. When I realized the Lyric was for sale, I knew I had to have it. "It was my husband who encouraged me and said that if anyone could do it, I could,” she said.

“It was hard at first because we left everything behind. It was like a whole new world. Coming from the big city to a small rural town, was a transition, especially during a pandemic.” But the family took it one day at a time and remained optimistic. “We are blessed to be where we are,” said Ruth. “I always tell my kids to never limit yourselves. God has put us here for a reason even if we don’t understand why.”

Ruth explained that Lyric’s menu is family-friendly serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The selections range from appetizers to sandwiches to dinner entries. A few customer favorites are steaks served sizzling on the plate, their famous filet mignon sandwiches, and delicious crab cakes. The bar area is also a place to gather and enjoy spending time. Ruth explained that the Lyric is so much more than a restaurant. It is a building full of memories. While renovating she found treasures from the past that are now part of the décor.

”I found this old newspaper article on the floor," she said pointing to a framed picture hanging above the bar. It included a photo of the bar from years ago. One of our guests recognized a man in the photo as her grandfather. That one moment in time makes it extra special. Families that spent time here and share their stories with me put a sparkle in my heart,” she said.

Ruth is looking forward to serving the community. She wants to get more involved, meet more people and eventually start more businesses in Shenandoah. Her ambition, positive attitude, and work ethic is inspiring. “I have many ideas and want to do more in our new home, she smiled. “It’s not a job, it’s a lifestyle.”

Visit the Lyric Restaurant for breakfast, lunch, and dinner during their special summer hours. Thursday 8 am - 8 pm, Friday and Saturday 8 am - 9 pm, and Sunday, 8 am - 8 pm. The Lyric Bar is open Thursday - Sunday, 3 pm - 2 am.

Ruth shared that The Lyric is hiring for a variety of positions. Follow them on Facebook or call: (570) 955-3820