Column: Last call: an ode to Topo

I  can still remember it like it was yesterday. I was sauntering back from the bathroom, drink in hand, both roommates just a few steps away. The clock struck 1:50 a.m. and that supernatural life-changing event happened.

The lights came on.

I jolted upright like an alert Doberman Pinscher, my eyes widened and the world around me came into focus.

To my right, I saw the dance floor: glazed brows and sweat stained bodies gesticulating in a nearly religious manner. Men and women everywhere were bobbing up and down as if all those present rode phantom exercise balls.

To my left, I saw that guy Jerry from my freshman year English class. He was peeling his beer stained face off the table before him, slowly coming back to life. His eyes remained half shut and mouth ajar as he turned his head back and forth searching for familiar life forms.

In this moment, I realized just how sober I was, and it scared me.

As Tar Heels, we all know what it’s like to realize you are the most sober person at any given bar. But having this life shattering experience at Top of the Hill of all places, will change a man for good.

But the fear will not keep us away.

As one of the most popular bars and restaurants on all of Franklin Street, Top of the Hill has branded itself as a true Chapel Hill landmark.

The bar has always been decorated with historic University images and those beautiful photographs of Franklin Street crowded with hundreds of people after the 2009 basketball national championship.

But the most alluring element to this local gem, is the outdoor patio area. Every spring, alumni and students flock to the area for happy hour blueberry wheat beers while overlooking the center of Chapel Hill.

There is nothing more relaxing than kicking back with great people, drinking a beer and enjoying the gentle Carolina breeze.

Being one of the few brewing companies in the area, customers are able to try a collection of brews and liquor drinks crafted privately by the brewery. Top of the Hill creates several flavors every year but is sure to have the three best on tap at all times: Rams IPA, Kenan Lager and of course Old Well White.

Service is usually great; however, on busy nights, bartenders can get overwhelmed and take a bit of time to serve customers, but the drinks are well worth the wait. Prices have always been on the high side; however, on Thursday nights, 16 oz. beers drop to only $3.

Overall, Top of the Hill is a local favorite, and I dare you to find me a student graduating this May that has never stepped foot into the facility.

When I come to visit Chapel Hill as a (still gorgeous) 40-something-year-old man, I want to take my family to this very spot for dinner. Because I know the moment I take a seat outside, it will bring me back to all of the memories and stories my friends and I created here; both the good and the bad.