Downtown State College Bar to Close

After more than 20 years in business, a downtown State College bar is closing its doors this summer.

The Darkhorse Tavern, 127 E. Calder Way, announced Tuesday on its social media accounts that its last day of operation will by July 15.

‘After many years in the hospitality industry, the previous owner has decided to retire,’ the statement said.

Owner Michael Caruso could not be reached for comment. It was not immediately clear if a new bar would open in the location.

‘We, at the Darkhorse Tavern, wish to THANK YOU for your support and patronage over the past 20-plus years,’ the post said. ‘Thank you for choosing us as a place to come have a pint, a laugh, or a plate of wings. A place to watch the game or listen to music. Without your support, we would not have these wonderful memories spanning the past two decades.

‘But, as they say, all good things must come to an end.’

The Darkhorse joins a growing list of longtime downtown businesses closing their doors in recent months or announcing plans to close.

After the new owners of the Foster Building did not offer a new lease to the owners of the Rathskeller and Spats Cafe, both businesses closed in January. Spats has teamed up with the Allen Street Grill for a new venture. A new tenant has leased the Skeller space and will maintain it as a bar, though almost certainly not with the Rathskeller name.

The Diner’s owner announced plans to close this month unless another proprietor took over the business on West College Avenue.

Herwig’s Austrian Bistro will close on May 25 after 16 years in business, with its owner cited health issues and declining sales. Snap Custom Pizza will be moving into the 132 W. College Ave. location.

Fraser Street Deli closed in December after 13 years in business. It is being replaced by Pittsburgh-based Salúd Juicery.