Sofritos GastroPub – Reading, PA
We got a gift certificate for Christmas from Jason’s Mom and Tim – A great gift!
We had no idea that Sofritos had opened in 2011 – really it was reborn from the long standing Tommy’s Cafe -and created by Hector Ruiz. It is a neighborhood bar sitting just around the corner from some of the more historic homes of Reading, PA. For those of you concerned about a city location, don’t be. Use your GPS and naviate to 220 Douglas St and you will see it right on the corner. A freshly painted and decorated building that you can’t miss. Lyssa and I tried manually locating the building but originally ended up at 220 West (maybe it was East, not sure) Douglass, and that was certainly not what we were looking for. 
We were lucky enough to sit at the bar and spend our time talking with Hector. His story about the bar, the city and his thoughts on its renaissance were great to hear. We like nothing more than when you see the owner doing the daily work and can hear and see their passion for the business. The atmosphere is really very nice – old world Reading decorations and artifacts, highlighted by a working 8 Foot tall Reading Beer cooler, shaped like a bottle and having Reading Beer decor. An awesome piece! There is a great deck out back (2 actually) that Hector says gets poppin in the summer. Its all an island theme and very well done.
Ok, for the details. We were truly surprised at the beer selection. We estimate about a dozen beers on tap (From Dogfish, Weyerbacher, Lancaster Brewing, and over to Pabst) that cater to all levels of beer drinker. Additionally there were probably another 50 varieties in bottles. the food was amazing. We both had jerk chicken in one form or another, and Jason had a bar taco that was the best he has had since working in Mexico City. The tortillas are made in Reading and almost seem as if your taco just slid off the assembly line. There is a $1 taco night so….we will be back for that for sure!
In summary, we really really like Sofritos! The building, the ownerships passion, the food, beer selection…all are terrific! This is one of those places that you have to go – you will be pleasantly surprised, have a great time and be supporting one the the good guys in trying to redefine the city of Reading.
GizMog Rating: (Saving a half GizMog for the summer trip!)
Tacos are good. I like tacos. Founders Breakfast should be on tap. It should be on tap everywhere.
I have been there 3 times now and have not had a bad meal. I love the bar tacos, they are so fresh!
Thanks for the post Nate, its great to hear from ouor Twitter followers!