People of the Downtown: Tom Sibol

There is no doubt that Downtown York has many individuals and businesses who support the community. Each has a culture of their own, and have chosen to live and work here, driving the City’s future forward with positivity and light. Whether carrying on the legacy of a generations-run business or starting one from the ground up, or using their art to express hope and a sense of togetherness-the individuals in this feature are making their unique mark on our community. Here we spotlight just some of the people bringing their passions and traditions to Downtown York, helping to enrich it for us all.

Tom Sibol

CEO of White Rose Restaurant Group (whiteroserestaurantgroup.com), which includes White Rose Bar and Grill (48 N Beaver St), White Rose At Bridgewater (601 Chestnut Hill Rd), Rockfish Public House (110 N George St) and Valencia Ballroom (142 N George St).

What about York's past and present or future inspires you?

It’s inspiring to hear people call us the anchor of downtown over the years. It makes you feel good, like you were the start of the explosion. I’m excited about the future of the different areas: Continental Square, Royal Square District, Restaurant Row, and Beaver Street; how it’s expanded out speaks volumes to the quality and future of the City itself.

How would you describe York in one word?

Unique. Between the history and the beautiful buildings, what has been added is all very unique. We’ve seen a lot of new outdoor dining and brewpubs. Everyone says vibrant, which is true, but it’s unique in that too.

What are your favorite places to visit in Downtown York?

I go everywhere! I’ve been to just about every restaurant in Downtown York – still making my way to some of the newer ones. My wife and I are foodies, so we love going out to eat and talking with people about life, culture, and on and on about business.

What has been your proudest moment while in Downtown York?

There are a lot of those. If you look back, all the awards – they make you proud and make you reflect. For us, receiving the 2020 Small Business of the Year Award by the York County Economic Alliance (YCEA) was the epitome of success for us. In 2033, we’ll hit 100 years, with my grandparents owning it for 11 years before my parents and now me.

Where would you tell someone to visit if they are planning a trip to Downtown?

I’d tell them they’d have to make ten trips to experience the quality of everything Downtown York has to offer. Every place has their own unique niche-so many diverse places to eat and shop. Downtown York was peaking pre-COVID, and those that survived have a lot to be proud of.

Why do you think businesses have survived so well in our community?

It’s a testament to the YCEA, with CARES Act funding, grant programs and other funding opportunities which made it possible to keep afloat. The organization is so communicative with businesses and sharing opportunities and support.

Why York? What made you decide to move here or stay here?

I purchased the business from my parents in 1984, after they have 40 years in the industry. It was just the part now known as Stogies, and then we bought the corner property in 1997. At that time, economics went out to the malls and downtown became ghostly. I tried to attract different clientele – we did country music nights, karaoke, to try and bring people downtown, and it worked. I just thought at some point, York was going to start attracting more people, and then more businesses, and we’ve seen that. A lot has happened on Beaver Street, Restaurant Row, and in Royal Square. People are tagging along with that vision of York’s history, and a place to settle your business.