Ernie’s Tin Bar wants you to put down your cellphone

There was a time when people went to bars to talk to other people, maybe even make new friends. At this old-school watering hole, you can have that experience.

Snack on all the shelled peanuts you want, but keep your cellphone tucked away. At Ernie’s Tin Bar on Lake-?ville Highway near Petaluma, the owners frown upon their use. “People talk, and if you sit down, you’re going to end up in a conversation with somebody,” said third-generation proprietor Ernie Altenreuther, a married father of three who lives on the family ranch just up the road.

It’s cold outside and the rain is coming down. But inside Ernie’s Tin Bar near Petaluma, a stove fire brings warmth to patrons unwinding after the workday. Since 1923, this corrugated shack on Lakeville Highway has offered respite from the bustling world outside its door. That’s especially true in winter, when the glow of string lights and a neon “Speakeasy” sign in the fogged window beckon commuters to stop and wait out traffic jams along the notoriously dangerous road. The dress code ranges from boots and polished loafers to pressed suits and work uniforms.

“Some people are coming in after wine tasting. Some are coming in after working on a job site,” Seth Bodek, a 45-year-old construction worker from San Francisco, said while sipping a rare Fuchshof cider from Germany.

To the surprise of many who stop here, Ernie’s has one of the North Bay’s most satisfying and eclectic beer and cider selections on tap, including Pliny the Younger. The hard-to-get, hop-heavy winter release arrives in kegs from Russian River Brewing Company in early February. At the other end of the hoppy spectrum, Ernie’s customers can down a Hamm’s for $1.75 a can.

Imbibe a little too much? Ernie’s offers free rides to customers living within a 16-mile radius of the establishment. On winter nights, that’s the kind of service that truly warms the soul.

Ernie’s Tin Bar, 5100 Lakeville Highway, Petaluma, 762-2075. For free shuttle Friday to Sunday, 3 to 10 p.m., call 478-0586.