Red Horse Tavern in Pleasant Gap to Close at the End of April

A Pleasant Gap restaurant that dates back to the 1950s will soon be closing its doors.

Red Horse Tavern, 104 N. Main St., plans to close at the end of April, owner and head chef Justin Leiter wrote in a Facebook post this week.

“It’s been an absolutely amazing run,” Leiter wrote. “It’s incredible to think I started this journey 10 years ago. There’s been more joy and success than I could ever have imagined. The memories, friends and experiences that were created along the way will never be forgotten.

“Just like all good stories though, they come to an end and I feel it’s time to move on.”

Built as a residential house in the 1940s, the building was converted to a bar and restaurant in the 1950s. A Bellefonte native who was previously a chef at the Gamble Mill, Carnegie House and Village at Penn State, Leiter partnered with former Gamble Mill owner and chef Courtney Confer to take over the Red Horse in 2012.

Since then the restaurant has focused on American foods with fresh, local ingredients and seasonal dishes in a homey atmosphere that has made it a popular draw.

Leiter thanked patrons and employees for their support over the years.

“I want to thank the patrons that have supported us along the way especially in the last couple of years throughout the unexpected changes in the world which we are still dealing with today,” he wrote. “You are a part of our success and your continuous support means a lot. It’s been our joy to see everyone week in and week out.

“My biggest thank you goes to the employees I’ve had along the way. I was truly blessed to have had such an awesome staff the last 10 years. The success of the Red Horse did not happen without the support, hard work and passion from each and every one of you. It’s been a pleasure to know you, I’ll never be able to thank you enough for your time.”