J. B.
Yelp
In a town with little going on and few memorable eateries and taverns to choose from, Voodoo Brewery stands out. Sort of like a Bohemian uncle with Navy tattoos in Mayberry. Anyway, Voodoo's standout is its wide assortment of craft brews, many local. Making a decision can be hard in such a case. Ah! But they'll help you with narrowing down your choice in the form of free samples. I prefer hopsy brews, my wife favors light bodied ones. The bartender guides you through their offerings with patience, humor and samples until you've found just what you need on that cold night stranded in plain old Meadville, PA.
Food offerings range from burgers to pasta to vegetarian, but prepared to stand out from generic bar room fare. You order at a window and pick it up when it's ready. (Sorry, but the veggie burger rather sucks.)
Voodoo's atmosphere is wickedly alluring - subdued lighting, beer and food offerings chalked on walls like a spirit from the Otherworld leaving graffiti for mortals. Some comfy, threadworn chairs add to the welcoming atmosphere. Random old doors attached to the ceiling add to the bohemian vibe. The long, traditional wooden bar looks like it was taken from Rick's Night Club in Casablanca. (You won't see Ingrid Bergman sashaying through the door. But maybe the spirit of Anthony Bourdain.) And Sam won't be playing the piano either. BUT, Voodoo has local bands to entertain you upstairs.
The overall vibe is youthful, yet somewhat retro, cool. Whoda thought in a town where the Trump signs outnumbered those of realtors selling homes? Stuck in Meadville, PA? Mosey on down to Voodoo Brewery where the cold suds go down too easy and the music soothes the soul.