Plans for a craft-beer haven brewing in York

Eden won't be brewing his own product. Instead, he'll offer at least 25 craft beers from places such as the Rogue brewery in Oregon, the Stone Brewing Co. in California, and Victory Brewing Co. in Downingtown.

The plan came together last week after Eden signed a lease for the 2,140-square-foot space on the first floor of the National House, built in 1828 as a hotel.

While in operation, the hotel's guests included President Martin Van Buren and the writer Charles Dickens. According to legend, Dickens said the steak he ate at the hotel was the best he had in America.

Eden plans to keep it simple, with a soft-pretzel machine, brats and sausages on a hot dog roller, a rotisserie, and pulled pork.

Smoking inside will not be permitted, and liquor and mixed drinks will not be served, he said.

"I don't want people doing Jägermeister shots and drinking 7 percent beer," Eden said. "It seems negligent."

And though his place - which he hasn't named - won't be a go-to spot for the Miller Lite or Budweiser crowd, Eden plans to keep a few "kitschy" beers on tap, such as National Bohemian or Pabst Blue Ribbon.