While many people count down the days to retirement, most do so in anticipation of downsizing and simplifying life to some interpretation of the stereotypical senior in the sun on a Florida beach or at a mountain retreat. April and Jim Guiffrida counted down the days to their retirement, but they did so to cultivate second careers as owners of two of Berks’ most vibrant spots for dining and night life — the Beverly Hills Tavern and the Railroad House. The Spring Township couple lives a mere stone’s throw from each business, which makes for a short commute to their dream-come-true retirement plan.
Q: How did you get into the business?
Jim: We’re originally from York. I grew up in the business; my folks owned a neighborhood place, a bar, and our family lived over it. My extended family was also in various similar businesses. I earned an engineering degree from Drexel University and worked for years at Car Tech, but always dreamed of opening a neighborhood place of my own after I retired.
April: We waited to raise our family. Our daughter Talia and son Frank are both grown and out of school, and the Railroad House was vacant for years when we bought it in 2007. It had been a bar, but needed extensive renovations. We tried to keep its character and even repurposed the original carved wooden bar on the deck. We opened in September of that year.
Q: After all the years waiting, how did it go in those first days?
Jim: She’s the brave soul [laughs]. We basically risked our entire retirement fund on my dream. It was a big gamble but there was a lot of anticipation in the area; it was ready for a sports bar with great pub food. The day we opened we were busy, and it’s been like that ever since.
April: We were blessed. From the start we knew we’d be okay. I think it is successful because it’s a fun place and a family place, for customers and for us – our son Frank works as our bar manager and our son-in-law Adam is our day manager. Our employees are like family too; just about everyone has been with us since we opened.
Q: How did you add the Beverly Hills to the mix?
Jim: We had to think about it. It was a whole new challenge but has been a great experience. The two establishments are close together but don’t compete; they complement each other. The tavern, while mainly seasonal, has something for all ages with more of a fine dining menu.
April: It is a popular brunch spot and is a beautiful place for a winter meal by the fireplace. In the summer, the sand and outdoor area are great fun.
Q: I guess you don’t get much time away from work, do you?
Jim: It’s hard to get away, but we take a trip to one of our favorite places, New Orleans, every January. We work a lot, but it’s a labor of love, and we work well together. We’ve been a couple since we were very young and wouldn’t have it any other way.
April: Yes, we celebrated our 36th anniversary this year. We’re together all the time, but on our days off we try to spend that time together too, relaxing and enjoying time as a couple. We’re also new grandparents to two babies — Nina and James — so time off is often spent with them. There’s nothing like family.
