McLanahan’s Self-Serve Beer Taps Open for Business

McLanahan’s Downtown Market has been a one-stop shop for many since it opened in 2002, but now you can pick up a breakfast sandwich, a box of mac ‘n’ cheese, and a draft beer all in one fell swoop.

After months of preparation, the 116 S. Allen St. market has installed self-serve beer taps and is finally open for business with “A’s Pub,” named for the Agostinellis who own the store.

Patrons can purchase a card from McLanahan’s and load it with as much money as they want, plus a $2.50 activation fee. After your ID is checked, you put your card into the card holder on the taps to activate the keg. You then pull the tap to get as much beer as you want and pay by the ounce.

McLanahan’s has 20 beer varieties on tap. There are three different sizes of glasses available, so you can mix it up as you please. The machine records how many ounces you get and tells you how much you spent.

“One of the nice things about the self-serve beer tap is that you can try different types, just a couple ounces at a time. This way, customers can try different things and see what they like,” manager Jim French told the Centre County Gazette last month.

If you return the card, McLanahan’s will return the activation fee, or you can keep the card and reload it for future hops enjoyment. 

Photo by Elissa Hill

The store plans to add wine on tap in the near future.

McLanahan’s Downtown Market currently closes at 10 p.m., but in a few weeks will start staying open until midnight. The store also revamped its seating areas to allow customers a better experience drinking the beer in-house, complete with long and small round bar-height tables and new bar stools.

McLanahan’s Downtown Market has revamped seating for its new A’s Pub. Photo by Elissa Hill

A variety of carry-out beer also will be available within the next two weeks in coolers along the south side of the store. Growlers aren’t available yet, but plans are in the works to offer them soon, as well.

“We hope to become the destination for craft beer in State College,” French said.

McLanahan’s Downtown Market will soon begin selling carryout beer. Photo by Elissa Hill