Brothers Bar & Grill: A New Chapter in State College's Social Scene
State College's vibrant bar scene welcomed a new player with the opening of Brothers Bar & Grill on February 15th. Situated at 134 S. Allen St., in the space formerly occupied by the Amazon pick-up store, Brothers Bar & Grill brings a Midwestern sports bar and restaurant experience to the heart of Pennsylvania. Founded in 1990 in La Crosse, Wisconsin, by brothers Marc and Eric Fortney, Brothers Bar & Grill has expanded to multiple locations across the country. The State College location marks their first venture into Pennsylvania, joining a chain that includes establishments in several other Big Ten college towns. The bar aims to provide a clean, relaxed social hangout with a wide selection of beers and drinks, complemented by a menu of American comfort food.
A Look Inside: Atmosphere and Ambiance
The two-level, 8,000-square-foot sports bar and restaurant boasts a seating capacity of 232 at tables and 35 at the bar. The interior design incorporates elements that pay homage to the chain's Midwestern roots while also creating a modern and inviting atmosphere. The elevated second level features pool tables, providing a space for games and socializing. Widescreen TVs are strategically placed throughout the establishment, making it a prime location for watching sports. Hanging flags representing each of the chain's other locations add a unique touch. One notable design element is the exceptionally long bar, which, according to Marc Fortney, is the longest in any of their establishments. A dance floor is situated at the back of the restaurant, offering a space for patrons to dance. The owners prioritized ample space between tables to encourage socialization. The walls are decorated with music album covers, and a "We Are" mural leads to the restrooms.
The Menu: Comfort Food and Drink Specials
Brothers Bar & Grill offers a diverse menu of American cuisine, designed to appeal to a wide range of tastes. The menu includes over 20 appetizers, 8 sandwiches, 5 fresh wraps, 8 burgers. Patrons can choose from 14 sandwiches and wraps, 14 appetizers, seven hamburgers, wings, salads, tacos, and mac and cheese, along with a kids menu. Many items are made from scratch, with the Wisconsin beer-battered cheese curds being a particularly popular choice. The restaurant also features daily drink specials and caters to college students. The bar boasts a wide liquor selection and a large tap system with thirty-five to 40 taps of new, favorite, and standby drafts. Some popular drinks include Long Island pitchers. Specific food deals include $3 hamburger deals on Tuesdays and wing nights on Wednesdays.
First Impressions and Customer Experiences
Initial reviews of Brothers Bar & Grill have been mixed, but generally positive. Many customers have praised the atmosphere, the variety of menu options, and the reasonable prices. The service has been described as friendly and efficient, particularly during less crowded times. Some reviewers have noted that the service can be slow when the bar is busy. The food quality has generally been well-received, with specific items like the boneless wings, soft pretzel sticks, and Smokehouse Burger earning positive mentions. Some customers have found certain dishes, like the cheese curds, to be a bit too greasy, while others have noted inconsistencies in food temperature. Many customers have expressed that Brothers Bar & Grill is a solid addition to State College.
Community Impact and Local Reception
The opening of Brothers Bar & Grill has been met with anticipation from State College residents and students alike. The new establishment is expected to provide a boost to the local economy, creating over 100 jobs. Borough council approved Brothers’ liquor license transfer in February 2023 after some debate over conditions that should be attached. While some concerns were raised by borough police and a neighborhood association regarding the potential impact of another bar in the downtown area, the owners assured the community that Brothers Bar & Grill would be a welcoming environment for families and young adults alike. The owners emphasized that the establishment aims to offer a casual dining experience with "really good handmade food."
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A Look Back: The Site's Previous Incarnations
The location at 134 S. Allen St. has a rich history, having been home to various businesses over the years. In 1855, James Jack of Philadelphia opened “Jack’s Road House” at the corner of College Avenue and Allen Street. The hotel was sold in 1880 to John W. Hench, Vivian Doty. The History of State College 1896-1946. Rushton, Geoff. The Hotel State College is a landmark at the corner of College Avenue and Allen Street in State College. In 1904, the Nittany Real Estate Company purchased the property and it was renamed again to the Nittany Inn. The building underwent significant renovations, including encasing the frame structure in brick, redecorating the first-floor lobby, and installing a bowling alleys and barber shop in the basement. In 1925, the property was purchased by Claude Aikens, R.J. Kennard and, Marlin “Matty” Mateer. Through the years its booths along College Avenue and Allen Street have provided diners and passersby a glimpse of each other. At one time, the hotel included 70 guest rooms, but that total diminished to just over a dozen by the 1980s as other businesses took over spaces that were previously hotel rooms. Along with the hotel and restaurant, the property has been home to numerous businesses through the years. State College developer Sidney Friedman purchased the hotel in the early 1970s, and it was managed by brothers Chris and Zeno Pappas. By 2019, along with the Corner Room, the property included the Allen Street Grill, Chumley’s, Bill Pickle’s Taproom, Zeno’s and the Basement Nightspot. That same year, the business changed hands again as Pat Croce & Co., led by Penn State alumni Michael Croce and Jeff Sorg, purchased the property. Most recently, the space was occupied by an Amazon pick-up store before being transformed into Brothers Bar & Grill.
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