By Gene Galin (part 1 of a 2 part series)
Pittsboro, NC – In the casual atmosphere at City Tap, the three guys from Pittsboro having lunch, shared not only our meal choices but also a wealth of local knowledge and humorous anecdotes. Eric Andrews, Greg Stafford and my conversation ranged from food preferences and local dining experiences to zoning laws and community dynamics.
The Menu at City Tap
As we settled in, the ordering process revealed their distinct tastes. Eric opted for the turkey sandwich with chips, while Greg chose two hot dogs topped with mustard, sauerkraut, and onions—though he insisted on holding the relish. I was torn between an Italian hoagie and a Philly cheesesteak, ultimately deciding on the Italian sandwich. I also ordered a double order of stuffed pretzel knots as an appetizer.
City Tap, known for its casual dining experience, offers a variety of menu items that cater to different palates. The group reminisced about past favorites, particularly Hoffman’s hot dogs and Birch Beer, which were once staples in the area but are now hard to find. Their banter highlighted the nostalgia associated with local cuisine and the evolving dining landscape in Pittsboro.
The Cost of Dining Out
As the conversation shifted to the cost of dining out, Eric expressed shock at the price of a recent lunch he shared with his partner, Penny, which totaled $48 for two sandwiches. This prompted a discussion about the rising costs of meals in the U.S., with the average lunch now priced at $18 nationwide and $15 in North Carolina. We reflected on how these prices impact our dining choices and habits, often leading Eric to bring lunch from home instead.
The rising costs of food have become a common concern, especially for many of us and our neighbors who are conscious of our budgets. This led to a somewhat humorous exchange about fast food prices and our experiences with various chains, emphasizing the disparity between perceived value and actual costs.
Local Politics and Zoning Laws
The conversation took a more serious turn as we discussed recent legislative changes affecting local zoning laws, specifically referencing SB 382. This law restricts municipalities from downzoning properties, a move that some view as a means to protect property values while others see it as a threat to local governance and community development.
Eric, a Chatham County planning board member, explained the implications of downzoning, which involves changing a property’s zoning classification to a less intensive use, effectively reducing its value. The discussion highlighted the complexities of local governance, the challenges faced by long-term residents, and the ongoing tension between development and preservation in Pittsboro and Chatham County.
Community Dynamics and Personal Connections
Throughout our meal, we shared personal stories. We spoke about our families, local events, and the importance of community connections. The mention of Penny, Eric’s “partner”, sparked a lighthearted debate about terminology for relationships.
Our reflections on local dining options also revealed our preferences for supporting small businesses over larger chains, emphasizing the importance of community in our dining choices. We discussed some of our favorite local spots and the unique flavors that define Pittsboro’s culinary scene.
A Taste of Pittsboro
Like many of our lunches, our gathering at City Tap not only provided an interesting dining experience but also served as a reminder of the importance of community, friendship, and shared experiences. For those interested in exploring the local dining scene or understanding some of the nuances of Pittsboro’s community dynamics, visiting City Tap is not a bad place to start. Whether you’re a longtime resident or a newcomer, engaging with local businesses and participating in community discussions can make life a little more interesting.
Watch on YouTube – Part 1 – Three Guys From Pittsboro having lunch at City Tap – 3.5.25
00:15 Three guys from Pittsboro enjoy a casual lunch ordering various dishes.
- They discuss their food orders, including hot dogs and an Italian hoagie.
- The group debates side options, ultimately deciding on potato salad and pretzel knots.
03:36 Discussion of local food favorites and shopping experiences.
- Conversation about nostalgic food items like Hoffman’s hot dogs and Birch Beer, now hard to find.
- Comparison of grocery stores and their pricing, with personal shopping preferences revealed.
06:26 Discussion about lunch costs and preferences in Pittsboro.
- The rising costs of lunch in Pittsboro, exemplified by a $48 bill for two sandwiches.
- A humorous debate about drink choices and differing perspectives on restaurant specials.
09:10 Discussing lunch prices and cooking methods while enjoying brisket.
- The average lunch cost in the U.S. is $18, with North Carolina at $15, highlighting rising food prices.
- Cooking methods and food preparation discussed, including smoking brisket and preparing meals in advance.
11:39 Guys enjoy lunch while discussing local politics and personal habits.
- The group shares their thoughts on food, particularly wings and pretzel bites, while maintaining anonymity.
- They delve into SP 382 legislation, addressing its implications on local zoning laws and the evolving nature of bill contents.
14:37 Discussion on zoning laws and their impact on property value.
- Down zoning prevents municipalities from devaluing commercial properties by arbitrarily changing zoning classifications.
- Regulations often benefit developers at the expense of long-term residents, leading to financial hardships for land-rich, cash-poor families.
17:35 Discussion on legislative challenges and local representatives in North Carolina.
- Representatives across counties are submitting bills to protect local interests, impacting decisions in areas like Chatham and Durham County.
- Despite efforts, new legislation may struggle to pass due to a Republican majority, highlighting tensions between local needs and state policy.
20:11 Discussion on local zoning changes and commercial development issues.
- The planning board deliberates on zoning decisions affecting the 15-501 Corridor between the Haw River and Walmart.
- Concerns are raised about potential up-zoning and maintaining commercial interests amid community resistance.