While passing through Circleville (or "Roundtown" as the locals proudly call it), we needed a place…read moreto grab a bite. Being an Elite Yelper, I did what I always do--I opened Yelp to see what the locals were recommending. One of the top-rated spots was The Thirsty Parrot, so we decided to check it out.
We arrived between the lunch and dinner crowds, so the place was nice and quiet. There was one customer enjoying a drink at the bar, and we were the only ones dining in. Our bartender, who also took care of our table, welcomed us with a smile and told us to sit wherever we liked. We grabbed a booth by the window and immediately noticed the fun atmosphere. Think Jimmy Buffett meets a tropical tiki bar, with colorful décor that makes you feel like you're on vacation instead of in central Ohio.
The menu is pretty much what you'd expect from a neighborhood bar and grill--burgers, sandwiches, appetizers, and a few house specialties. Before we came, I'd noticed that the bourbon chicken gets mentioned over and over in Yelp reviews. Then I spotted something that caught my eye: a Bourbon Chicken Gyro. As a former chef, I'm always looking for the dish that's a little outside the norm, so that sealed the deal.
The gyro comes in either a quarter-pound or half-pound size. I wasn't messing around, so I ordered the half-pound with lettuce, tomato, onions, and tzatziki sauce, plus a side of their hand-cut fries. My wife decided it sounded too good to pass up, so she ordered the quarter-pound version--just hold the onions--and we split the fries.
When the food arrived, everything was fresh and piping hot. The bourbon chicken was tender, flavorful, and surprisingly delicious wrapped up in a gyro. It's not something you see every day, and it absolutely worked. The hand-cut fries were good too, although I would've liked them just a little crispier. That's a personal preference more than a complaint.
Before we left, we had a chance to chat briefly with the owner, who thanked us for stopping in. Those little interactions always leave a lasting impression. Even though it was a slow time of day, it was easy to see why this place earns consistently good reviews. Friendly people, reasonable prices, and solid food are a recipe for success.
If you're passing through Circleville and looking for a casual place with good food, friendly service, and a laid-back island vibe, put The Thirsty Parrot on your list. I know we'll stop back the next time we're in Roundtown.