The night before our recent Vistage meeting in Erie, I had the privilege of dining at the Erie Club, and it was nothing short of exceptional. Tucked away in the intimate wine room in the basement, our dinner felt like a hidden gem—warm, private, and rich with atmosphere. The food was absolutely fantastic, from the perfectly prepared entrees to the attentive service that made the entire evening feel special. It’s the kind of meal and setting that leaves a lasting impression—and I’m already hoping I’m lucky enough to return again soon.
What makes the Erie Club even more remarkable is the history that surrounds you the moment you walk through the doors. Housed in the Charles Manning Reed Mansion, the building dates back to 1846–1849 and originally served as the private home of Charles Manning Reed, a member of one of Erie’s founding families. The Reed lineage traces back to Colonel Seth Reed, one of the city’s earliest settlers. The mansion’s Greek Revival architecture—complete with a grand pedimented portico and Ionic columns—sets the tone for the elegance within.
Over the decades, the structure has evolved to accommodate modern needs while preserving its historical character. Notable additions include expansive bay windows, a recreation hall, and a two-story extension, all seamlessly integrated into the original design. Since 1904, when the Erie Club officially took over the mansion, it has served as a private social institution and a guardian of Erie’s heritage. Its inclusion in the National Register of Historic Places and its location within the West Sixth Street Historic District only underline its importance to the region.
Whether you’re visiting for business, a social gathering, or just a memorable meal, the Erie Club offers a rare combination of historic charm, culinary excellence, and unmatched ambiance. It’s a place where the past is beautifully preserved—but the experience feels...
Read moreThe Erie Club is my favorite restaurant in Erie! The chef has some of the most amazing meals I’ve ever had in my life. The crab cakes are absolutely amazing, and I highly recommend the soft shelled crab as well. There is a salad you can get before your meal that starts with an F and is a weird name, I can’t remember the name, but it’s really good. My in laws are members here and we come with them every time we visit, and the service is always amazing and the food is even better. This place is...
Read moreThe Erie Club is outdated, unwelcoming, and discriminatory. It is clear that younger members and people of color are not truly welcome here. Instead of creating an inclusive environment, the culture caters only to an older, narrow demographic and alienates anyone who doesn’t fit their preferences. This is not a place for modern hospitality, respect, or diversity—just a reminder that some clubs are stuck in the past and proud of it. Don’t support a place that discriminates—Erie...
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