Zeno's Pub

The best underground pub atmosphere in State College can be found underneath the Corner Room on Allen Street, just off College Ave. Zeno's pub is small but truly wonderful. Especially if you are a big fan of beer. As far as I can tell, Zeno's probably has the largest selection of beer in Downtown State College, whether draft or bottle.


Once you find the outside stairs on the side walk of Allen, you head down to a quite small wooden door. Be careful when you walk in, if someone opens it when you're just about to, you'll get hit in the nose. And if you're as tall as I am (6'4''), watch your head! After you clear the ID check and pay cover (if they have a band) the bar will be to your right and the tables to your left. The seating area ends in the stage and here's a useful tip: the bathrooms are to the left of the stage, you basically walk over the corner of the stage. I still have to find the sign for them.


Back to the bar: The great beer variety is immediately visible but Zeno's doesn't lack behind on mixed drinks either. When you chose your drink, don't order something you've had before. Be experimental or just ask the bar tender what he'd recommend (though you might want to give him a hint as to what kind of beer you're into). If you're looking for the vast specials you may find in other bars, Zeno's is not the right place for you. They always feature on draft beer; find the sign for it in the middle of the wall behind the bar. If you like the kind they have, try it. I can almost guarantee that you will never be disappointed. Last Tuesday I treated myself to an Elk Creek Double Pale Ale... hmh... delightful. And only $ 3 a pint, too. Other people pay that for a Coors light at Inferno...


While Zeno's is a great destination on any day of the week, in my unofficial Downtown calendar Bluegrass night on Wednesdays is the one to go to. Be there early (8ish) to get a table. Free BBQ Sandwich included in cover. All together, Zeno's is the pub between College and Beaver. If you want to hang out with friends and drink 'exotic' (compared to other Downtown bars) beers, Zeno's is the place.