Zeno’s
100 W College Ave, State College, PA, 16801
Zeno’s Menu
Sorry, We are updating this restaurant menu details.
Visit below restaurant in State College for healthy meals suggestion.
Visit below restaurant in State College for healthy meals suggestion.
Visit below restaurant in State College for healthy meals suggestion.
Sorry, we don't have Q&A for this restaurant.
Sorry, No Coupons available for this restaurant.
-
Address :
100 W College Ave
State College, PA, 16801 - Phone (814) 237-4350
- Click To Get Directions
Opening Hours
Sorry, Store hours have not been updated. If you are the owner of this restaurants. Please update the store hours.
Specialities
- Accepts Credit Cards : Yes
Parking : Street
Bike Parking : Yes
Wheelchair Accessible : No
Good for Groups : Yes
Ambience : Divey
Noise Level : Loud
Music : Live
Good For Dancing : No
Alcohol : Full Bar
Happy Hour : Yes
Best Nights : Thu, Fri, Sat
Coat Check : No
Smoking : No
Outdoor Seating : No
Has TV : Yes
WE SERVE THE FOLLOWING STATES
Looky Weed - Buy Marijuana Online
Looky Weed is here to help you navigate the maze of legalized marijuana. We provide you with a complete dispensary directory.
Emily A.
Good beer, good service, good (but loud) music. I've only been once, but I am sure I'll be back.
(4)Andy S.
One of the better (if not the best) bars in State College. Different than the usual lowest-common denominator crap that infests the town, they have a nice variety of international beers and you won't see/hear anything to do with the Dave Matthews Band here. I really have no desire to ever return to State College, but if I did, I'd probably throw back a few here just for old time's sake. It is very cramped inside, but it beats the alternative.
(4)Marie N.
If you're a beer connoisseur looking for a variety of draft beers, or just looking for a chill place to chat with friends and get some food, Zeno's is the place. The staff are really laid back and fun. You may have heard that Zeno's is the hipster bar, but it's really just a great place for anyone wanting to unwind without the crowds (and sweat) of other bars. There are tables to sit, and you can order food late! Natalie plays on Tuesday nights (love listening to her). Absolutely one of my favorite places in State College!
(5)Gia M.
Usually when people mention that a bar has an "underground" feel, they just mean that it's dark, might be a little dingy, and isn't known by two many people. Zeno's takes it to the next level by actually being below street level, so keep an eye out for the sign. Once you're in, the low ceilings and stone (?) floor contribute to a "dark tavern" feel. Grab a high-top with some friends and proceed to drink very good beer for very low prices (a pint of Founder's was only about $4 and the rest of the craft brews were similarly priced). Our bartender was competent and experienced at handling crowds, so none of us ever had to wait for service. A cool bonus was the bar games room in the back and around a corner on the way to the bathroom.
(4)Tyler G.
Dive bar. I had had 2 beers and asked for 2 pitchers of yuengling and 1 pitcher of water at the request of the sober drivers of the group. The bartender gave me the pitcher of water and 3 glasses and said "lets just have water". Seriously condescending. 9 of is were there and we just left. We had already waited in line for 10 minutes and been " interviewed" by the doorman. I've never been to a bar that treats ALL of the their customers like wasted hobos. No respect. As an out of towner, fuck this place. We came here for the good reviews. Here's a bad one.
(1)Jared J.
Good ol' Zeno's is one hell of a beer bar. Dirt cheap, nearly dirt floors, and quite the dive. I believe I counted 20+ taps and a wealth of bottles. They offer some dandy food options as well, and some great service. Just don't mind bumping elbows with a stranger and mind the low ceilings! PROTIP: If you appear to be even an ounce drunk forget about getting in.
(4)Michelle P.
If I lived in State College, I could easily see myself being a regular at Zeno's. The atmosphere was dark, laid back and they had a killer beer selection. My husband and I ended up at Zeno's twice during our super short visit to State College. Both visits had live music playing, which made for the perfect background for imbibing. We sat at the bar both times where we had easy access to the drink list and bartender. At the time of our visit they had Stone Enjoy by 12.26.14 (YAY!). We also tried the Gus IPA (Cask) and Zeno's Rye. All three beers were new to me and awesome. The crowd was fairly mixed, but in a good way. I was expecting to be out with 21 years, but there were people of all ages at Zeno's. I had to chuckle when the college kids came up and ordered PBRs, but they were by no means the typical rowdy college crowd (at least not during our two visits). During our second visit, we got a little hungry and it was a little disappointing that they were out of soft pretzels. We had enough beer at that point, so we went on our way to stake out some grub. I would absolutely frequent Zeno's more if I could and recommend it to any beer lover visiting State College.
(4)Michael R.
There's a great beer selection and the staff and evironment are really cool. However, it's an underground establishment that's impossible to find and they have a small cover charge, which apparently is the norm in State College. The night we were here they had a jazz band playing and it was a fun time. Overall I endorse it and think the drink selection is great.
(4)Anthony G.
Frat-Boy farm. Smells like piss and b-o.
(1)Susan M.
I can see why people love this bar! Sure it's divey, but anytime a group of four can drink for three hours and only spend $40 I'm a fan! The football team was out of town so it was a quieter night in town and that was perfect for us 30 something's. They had a 80s/90s cover band playing rock songs and the weren't half bad! The bar is dark, a little seedy, and smells faintly of sex - or maybe that was just forty+ 20 something's looking for their next conquest. I'm older and out of touch with the college dating scene, but there was a lot of lust in the air! We checked out a few other bars in town and made our way back to Zenos. It was the best choice by far!
(4)bob t.
Surprised I did not review this (another lost review?) since I've filled a passport. I have seen the bouncers be dickheads, but called them on it and they paid, literally, to fix it. The beer is the best, and the service, modulo space and time a bit, is the best. Dave is cool. JP is cool, Matt is cool. AAA Blues playing on a friday night after a long week is way cool. A friend from out of town called it 'magical', and indeed, it is. It is unkind to say that the bathrooms are like the third world. I've been in developing countries, and Zeno's bathrooms are nicer. Not a lot, but technically, nicer. ps. the 'do they have a coat check?' question made me laugh.
(5)Marcus C.
Zeno's is primarily a douche-free zone with the best beer selection in State College. The bar tenders care about beer and are happy to talk about it. The music is good. It's dark, can get loud, and I probably wouldn't spend as much time there of I was single.
(5)Rick K.
This is a bar that has been a home away from home to me for some time. This is a bar that you can hole yourself away in a corner and read or write or just watch the people flow in and out like a tide. This is a bar to plot taking over the world or overthrowing the local government or regaling the time you tripped acid with Joe Paterno (that never happened). It's that perfect dark pocket where you can be you. If there's one thing you've heard about Zeno's it's that the beer selection is a treasure. It is. What you might not know is that the staff here is family (not like literally though, that would be weird). This is their place too, and more than anything they want you to have the best of times. You want a bartender to throw you around a little bit, maybe spill some beer on you, or better yet make you wait twenty minutes for their attention? Go somewhere else -- anywhere else. This isn't the place to order your "purple trash cans" or "strong islands," you should know that, so don't be a jackass when you get your bill and it's not $2.50. It's called discretionary pricing and if you're too drunk to figure that out, that's your problem. Meanwhile, I'm drinking my totally reasonably priced Zeno's Rye (which is probably the best rye ale I've ever had, not even trying to be biased here) and it's even cheaper than usual because it's happy hour (which for this beer in particular is all day, and the happy hour beer of choice changes each day). So, if you feel like there's no place for you in this town. If you feel you're lost. If you're tired of the same old, unoriginal cover bands and shuffling shoulder to shoulder through a crowd to order your drink. If you're tired of losing your voice at the end of the night because the music is too loud and you have shout talk for hours at your friends who are literally standing several inches away, then Zeno's might be the place for you. Here, the bathroom graffiti is unrivaled (I hear they hire someone from the Philosophy Department, pay them in beer, and hand them a Sharpie). Here, the $2.50 soft pretzels will save your life at the end of the night. Here, all things make sense -- at the bar located directly above the center of the Earth.
(5)Colleen S.
Definitely one of my favorite bars in State College! Great beer selection and they always have great music! I've seen Pure Cane Sugar, The Nightcrawlers and many other great local bands perform here. The sound is always great and there is usually a little dance party by the end of the night. They have $3 drafts of beer from the Elk Creek Brewery in Milheim, which is cheaper than you can drink it at the Elk Creek! They have a huge selection of well-priced drafts and also a good selection of bottles. The food is pretty good too! They have a back room with a pool table, pinball machine, arcade games and a dart board. If you appreciate good beer and music and you dislike the Bro-ish, Frat feel of most other bars in State College, this is the bar for you!
(5)Del S.
I love the atmosphere and the staff is very friendly. I would definitely go there more if it was less expensive. There is a ton of beers to choose from but it can be a bit on the pricey side and their happy hour selection could be better.
(3)Paul Y.
The staff is very rude and inconsiderate to anyone who doesn't order a beer. I asked for a simple cranberry vodka and the man bartending patronized me for it. When I was walking away from the bar back to my seat, I heard the bartender whisper obscene language to himself about me. I never felt more insulted in my life. Not to mention, the cranberry and vodka tasted more like vodka and vodka. After I got my drink me and my friends went to a room that had a pool table (as we are all avid pool players)and a man with a pony tail told us that we weren't allowed to play because we aren't regulars. I was very offended by this but the man looked as though he was going to strike me, so me and my friends decided to just leave because violence is never the answer. I give this place a 1 star and would not suggest that anyone go to this establishment. Lots of other good bars in the area!!
(1)Victoria B.
This place was fantastic! I was a part of a bar tour for my friend's wedding and we got turned away by Skellar, Cafe 210, and Bar Bleu simply because we were wearing matching t-shirts. This place took us in, spoke to us like adults, and gave us free soft pretzels for our troubles. I can't believe the way other bars treated us based on the fact we wore matching shirts, but Zeno's treated us like true patrons and friends- I couldn't ask for more. Come here for a chill time and a good beer with friends.
(4)Kristyna Z.
If I lived here, This would be my oval spot. They play live music 6 days a week. The beer selection is awesome, and though the cocktail list is short, I'm sure they could make anything. Those who tend the bar are friendly and they notice when your drink is getting low. They know the regulars by name, even speaking through casual conversation. I definitely approve.
(5)Chuck O.
I just want to say I walked in this evening after 3 years of not being in this town and a Zeno's bartender kicked me out because I apparently didn't speak the right way to him. Seems to be a standard story here. That is ok I'll have my story one day about how this place is a fucking trap shit hole.
(1)Michael W.
Best Beer selection in State College, the hold "beer fests" which you pay a flat fee and get dinner and 10 samples of beer that you might not try otherwise. It is a basement bar and divey, but they embrace it. The bartenders can be rough sometimes when it is busier, but you don't have to deal with them if it is slower and there is a waiter. They have live bands and wide variety of music that comes in. This is a must visit if you are in to craft beer and want to find beer you wont be able to find anywhere else.
(4)Justin K.
Apparently having allergies is enough to be denied entrance. Fortunately everybody in the line for Pickles said I was better off.
(1)Steve S.
I would LOVE to give Zeno's a great review, but that is actually impossible. So five friends and I went out to the Penn State game (along with about 50,000 other alumni and older fans) and decided to hit the college bars on Friday night. After two drinks in another bar we decided to try Zeno's...now it's important to remember - TWO drinks and two beers (a little earlier) over about three hours. We walk up to Zeno's...NO LINE! Cool, except here's the problem...the two douchebags checking IDs told two of my friends that they were "noticeably intoxicated". Now, the two guys who they were referring to wouldn't have been noticeably intoxicated if they drank ten beers in three hours so this was nothing more than two assholes keeping six 40ish guys out of their bar. Good thing we WERE 40ish year old guys, because 20 years ago I might have ended up being dragged away with at least ONE of them bleeding. Hope your bartenders enjoyed the tips... After reading the reviews I really wish I could have tried some of the great beers on tap-it really sounds like a great bar, but instead I got nothing but pissed off at the jackasses checking IDs. Luckily, Bill Pickle's Tap Room was right around the corner...they happily took us in, accepted our cash, and allowed us to drink to our hearts' content! Next year, when I once again have a pocketful of cash, guess which bar I WON'T be giving my money?
(1)Dave K.
Zeno's is the perfect chill bar in State College IF, and I will over-emphasize IF - you're looking for the following awesomenesses: Live music - right in your grill and enjoyable to hear Quality beer - at affordable prices (beer specials throughout the night) Smooth Ambiance - a unique, small town feel without compromising on authenticity Simply put, you need to go here. Try to go in with an open mind. I'm serious. Most people will tell you they tried this place but "didnt like how dark it was" or "thought my feet looked funny on the stairs". Psh. Of course your feet looked funny. That's not Zeno's fault. Zeno's didn't do that, you did. Well, you or your genes.
(4)Adam Y.
On Tuesday's Zeno's offers Brew Fest, where they feature a different brewery and offer all sorts of unique and specialty beers from the chosen company. An all around solid place, will be back when I'm in town. Not too much of a bar area so it was a great place to chill at a seat right up at the bar and enjoy great beer. I highly recommend this location on Tuesday's for the beer flight. It didn't hurt that the featured brewery was one of my favorites Dogfish Head!
(4)Sean O.
Hole in the wall dive bar, but not a terrible one. What kind of bar doesn't have Blue Moon though??? Service is inconsistent.
(2)Meg L.
Zenos, l love you forever. Amazing beer selection, good music (bluegrass on Wednesdays!), and awesome staff. I love coming back home to this bar admist the mostly doofus-filled bars of State College.
(5)Marybeth M.
Great beer selection, the best staff in State College, a great location, great live music, good food from the Corner Room, and a relaxed atmosphere. This is the best bar in State College. The only downside is there can sometimes be limited seating.
(5)Amador A.
I came here because of all of the great reviews I read and heard about this place. Besides having to wait outside on a Friday night when the temperature was 27 degrees. I had a great time here, the atmosphere is your typical dive bar with a fairly small bar that's crowded, roughly about 20 tables with waiter service and a game room with darts and a pool table. What I love about this place is their beer menu. I would have to say they have over 50 different types of beer at a reasonable price. $4.00 a pint for one of their home brewed beers, that's unheard of (probably cuz I come from NY and beer is expensive). If it wasnt for a few drinks I dont think I would have like the live country band that was performing. But hey live music is better than no music, sometimes. Overall I like this place and will come back next time I'm around State College.
(3)Jessica B.
Zeno's is one of the only bars I still go to in State College. Large and excellent beer selection, good service, and occasional good music. Decent townie hangout. Pool and darts in the back. What's average elsewhere gets 4 Stars in State College just because there are so few places to go out here. It's down in the basement under the Corner Room. I have seen the bouncers get shirty about letting guys in who they think appear to be intoxicated. But generally, a chill and pleasant atmosphere.
(4)Shane O.
Great beer selection, great staff, great music, good prices... not sure about the food but the more I think about it this might be the best stop in State College. You can't smoke here anymore which is a plus, it's a little tight but never overly crowded and I've never had anything but great service here. Not just good service but service from people that really seem to enjoy what they are doing and are good at what they do, that is hard to find anywhere, but in a College town it's very hard to find... Zeno's my new #1 favorite bar in State College. Well done.
(4)Sarah S.
Awesome varity of beer on tap and in bottles. Bartender is excellent and very helpful... Ask for a bar napkin map....It's the Best!
(5)Bunny B.
Cheeseburger Club Sandwich. Really, that's all you need to know. Awesomeness. If you need any other reasons: super-friendly staff, good music, great beer selection. I do wish they'd change their band line-up more often, but whaddya gonna do. Oh, and....cheeseburger club sandwich. Hell yeah.
(5)Chris S.
Great beer selection and a very knowledgeable staff. It gets loud in there when a band is playing and there's not a lot of room for standing or sitting. I paid a cover both times - $1 the first and I think $3 the second. It was cheaper on the Saturday than the Wednesday, though. There was a surprising amount of men in Crocs the second time I visited. Not sure what to make of that but I wanted to throw it out there.
(4)Leif Rune E.
Was asked to leave because the bartender didn't accept or understand the Norwegian drivers license. We were clearly all over 21. (We are 34-35) The bartender also said he knew we were over the age limit but still couldn't serve us.
(1)Meghan C.
EASILY the best bar in State College! And although I frequented it in my undergrad days, I appreciate it even more now that I'm older. It's superbly divey, not in a fake wannabe hipster way, and the beer list is unmatched by any other bar in Happy Valley (sidenote: okay, maybe the Z-Bar, I haven't tallied them all up. But can you trust the Z-Bar bartenders with beer recommendations? Not like you can at Zenos!). The crowd is a nice mix of townies, grad students, less broish undergrads, and even professors. They have waiter service for the tables, and not only that, but the servers are super friendly, helpful, and fast, even when it gets crowded. And they will cut you off or even kick you out if you start getting too ridiculous, which is exactly how they avoid becoming a frat boy paradise like most other State College bars. The only thing I don't like about Zeno's is that the live music is extremely loud due to the bar's tiny size. Although I appreciate the fact that they have a band almost every night of the week, the bands are mostly all cover bands, as is typical for State College, so they aren't that exciting to watch. It can be near impossible to have a conversation while the band is playing because of the acoustics in here. It's still worth it for the crowd, service, and beer selection, but if you really want to have a deep conversation it's not the right place unless you can snag one of the three small tables in the side room.
(4)Olivier C.
My favorite bar in State College ! Good music, beer and whiskey !
(5)Megan C.
Bummer that there was a cover, but they did have live music the night I visited. (Although, I do live in Nashville, so that wasn't really a huge novelty to me). And they've got wicked drink specials...mixed drinks for $2.50, really? Dang. Super divey-pool and darts included.
(4)Kevin B.
Came here for a few brews while visiting some friends. The pitcher specials were pretty good ($9 for Stoudt's Scarlet Lady) and the atmosphere was relaxing. The overall beer selection was quite good and I was pleased with the quick service. The food however was so-so. Chicken tenders and fries were done well, but the nachos were soggy and that's a deal-breaker for nachos. The place also has a pool table and arcade area, which was nice. It was nice to find a place like this that wasn't completely packed and that drew a crowd interested in good beer. Overall, I would definitely recommend it for the good beer selection and relaxing atmosphere.
(4)Philip A.
I don't have much to say about zenos. They have a pretty good beer selection. I think they used to have more beer in the past. That is basically the only reason to visit this bar. It's in a dirty, dark basement. This is a dive at best. Stay out of the bathrooms at all cost, they are 3rd world nasty. Food, I wouldn't recommend unless you were starving. I give them 3 stars based on beer selection only, other wise more like a 1.
(3)Rodney L.
This is considered a "dive bar" but it's just not very laid back for my liking. I DO love the graffiti in the bathroom! Music is too loud to talk to your friends which is a complaint I have for many bars so I won't single this one out in particular for that. I guess I'm really looking for a real gritty no nonsense hole in the wall and this place was too primped poodle pretentious for me. food did look fantastic though!
(3)Erin R.
This is my favorite place in downtown State College. It's a great, laid-back dive bar. They have an amazing selection of beers (hundreds) and if you're feeling ambitious you can get a "passport" and record which beers you get. When you drink 80, you get a T-shirt and your name immortalized on the back wall. They often have really good bluegrass/folk music, and their bathrooms have some of the most interesting graffiti you'll likely ever see. But the main thing I love about Zeno's is the staff. Most of them are really friendly and knowledgeable and they just make you feel really welcome. If you like beer and you're looking for a Cheers-type place where "everybody knows your name," I would definitely recommend checking out Zeno's.
(5)Yasmine H.
This has been a favorite since I have turned 21 (4 yrs ago). Though The Z bar has more beers on tap, their waiters aren't able to help you with selecting any beer. Zenos on the other hand has a HUGE Bottle selection and a good amount of beers on tap which their waiters are able to help you choose the best/closest to your liking or your flavor pallet. Definitely if you're a beer lover, Zenos is THE best place to come. Plus their environment weeds out the annoying A-typical college douche bag which is a plus for me! Their food selection during the day is the same as the corner room and Allen St. Grill which is great and they have late night food/snacks on the cheap. Overall this has been a consistent place with great employees, great food, and possibly the best beer selections in town.
(5)Simon B.
As many have pointed out, this is the best place for beer lovers with a selection out of this world. A couple observations: The place is small and always feels crowded, regardless of the number of patrons. The bands playing some nights (Fridays and Saturdays I believe) are mostly disappointing and so loud you can't really have a conversation (remember the place is TINY). Given that they charge a significant cover for those nights, I prefer M-Th evenings to avoid the bands. Tip: Monday evening is the "Belgian Beer" special, with roughly half off on Belgian style beers. This not only includes the Belgian beers, but also others like the Quebec Unibroue beers such as La Fin du Monde and La Maudite.
(4)Ryan W.
A ton of beers on tap, but it is very loud. It is a great place for a drink with some old buddies.
(3)Cindy D.
Good selection of food and beer. Prices were decent. Live music was definitely a plus. The service could have been better and I would have given it four stars.
(3)Joshua L.
As an alumni of PSU and State College High I was excited to come back to State College for my brother's wedding. On the night before we wanted to go out to a location we both frequented and have a drink before heading home for the evening. Arriving at Zeno's a little after ten we were greeted by two degenerate looking doormen who checked our IDs and ushered half our party through the doors. The other half of our party was left outside. After several minutes of waiting I asked what the problem was, the doorman claimed they were at capacity and were not letting anyone else in. I asked what the capacity was and he could not answer me. We bought a couple beers, were waiting for a few more people to leave so the rest could come in and when a group of 4 left they still denied them access. The doorman claimed the group was going to smoke cigarettes and would be back so they were technically not leaving. I can understand that reasoning so I didn't push on the topic until I saw them allow another group of people in without a problem. That's when I decided to say something. The degenerates at the door had the nerve to say that these were some friends of theirs and that is why they let them in. I explained to them that this was an important occasion for us being that it is the night before my brother gets married and that we wanted to come in for one drink, half of our party of 13 was already inside and it would be appreciated if they let in the rest. He said no of course with a smug look on his face, obviously now trying to create a disturbance. I decided to be the bigger man and asked that our party be reimbursed for the cover charge they had charged us so we could go somewhere that we were welcomed. He agreed to give me my money back but would not give anyone else their money back. I went to the bar and asked for a manager. I was surprised when the guy behind the bar sporting the "Thing 1" nametag (what an idiot) turned out to be the manager. I explained to him the situation and he had the nerve to tell me I did not understand the situation and that he told the doormen not to let anyone else in. I asked about the group of "friends" that were allowed in and he said he never saw that happen. So I ask... What is a manager doing working behind a bar instead of managing his degenerate staff like he should be? Where are the standards and where if the respect for your paying customers? Having just bought beers we could not drink because half our party was waiting outside I demanded a refund for those and the all of the covers we had to pay. After some back and forth with the manager and one of the doormen trying to get out of refunding all of our covers we finally walk out of the establishment. Walking away I had the manager at my back yelling about how I was making something out of nothing... I think not. It was embarrassing to myself, my family and my friends being treated like this. You are in the business of hospitality, be hospitable. I am a professional in the hospitality industry, I've been working in it for 15+ years and have NEVER treated a customer like the staff here treated us. I will NEVER go back to Zeno's or any of the groups other establishments. The best part of this all is that the owners of the group are neighbors to my family so I will make sure this review gets to them and they know how their employees are treating their customers. So to Thing 1, Josh (I think that was you from high school; nice job with your life by the way) and the other degenerate doorman, take it from a professional in the industry; this is not how you treat customers. If you would like some training I would be happy to come by and consult for your establishment and do some training sessions which are obviously needed. We ended us spending our evening and about a grand on a bar tab over at the new area above the Phyrst and enjoyed our evening to the max. Cheers to you for assisting us in finding a great new spot!
(1)Brian B.
After 25 years, every single time I walk in Dave says "Hi Brian, welcome home."
(5)Brian B.
Two years of drinking and eating in bars in State College and I still find myself constantly gravitating to Zeno's. Every single time. But why? Maybe it's the fact that even if I haven't been there in a month or two, the barbacks and bartender still recognize me and the fact I always order the daily special beer no matter what it is. Along with the occassional whiskey. Maybe because I lost my job, came immediately over to Zeno's, and had both bartenders and fellow drinkers next to me buy me a pint and offer places that they heard are hiring. (I ended up landing a job 3 days later.) Maybe the one time I watched a barback making waffles for Free Waffle Night for the first time, doing horribly, and having barbacks and patrons coming over to both help teach him. Subsequentially, they publicly wrote that he was terrible at making waffles with pool chalk on the wall. He took it in stride. Maybe from the fact that I can bring in my bag with outside food I picked up earlier and not find myself on the receiving end of a bitching out from a bouncer. And on top of that, sharing it with the staff and other people there without staff up in arms about ruining their food cost percentage. It's also the only bar I've seen someone play World of Warcraft in. I've also seen a professor grading papers with a massive pint of Dogfish Head Punkin Ale next to him. Coming in to the bar and seeing X-Men on the TV behind the bar so you can drink and watch a decent movie is also a nice one. All I know is that either way, I've never had a bad experience at Zeno's. Ever. For two years of going to a place, that's tough to do. I've brought and met everyone here at some point: professors, musicians, grad students, military guys enjoying their two weeks or finally using their GI Bill, wannabe pinball/arcade wizards, babyfaced undergrads, chefs, stock brokers, burned out townies, senior citizens laughing and talking about the "co-eds", and even my fiancee. As the one other reviewer notes a lack of "interesting" clientele, it's that she probably didn't speak to them since they're "old folks" or "alcoholics" . Sure you'll see the same faces, but that's because Zeno's is the friendliest, least demanding place to relax and drink. Want to just chill after class and get nachos? Fine. Shoot pool and throw back fruity beer drinks (Apple Pie)? Cool. Roll cigarettes like the one regular does? Go for it. Grab a quick pint instead of being in the freezing cold or sweltering heat waiting for a CATAbus that may or may not come? There's a clock behind the bar for that (somehow a luxury in bars around here). All I know is that either way, I still have 25 beers to go on my passport. The ratty looking pamphlet is crumpled and creased to death. Poor thing has been forgotten, remembered, lost, found, recounted for completeness an innumerable amount of times and has somehow still survived since its initial dating of October 2, 2008 by Mia. It's about time I finish it before I find myself leaving State College without having done so. And I'm going to love every damn minute of it.
(5)Karen E.
Best bar in State College. Great live music on weekends. It's actually laid back, not too expensive and has good beer.
(4)Ricardo T.
Zeno's is the go-to for Beer lovers in State College. An excellent beer selection is paired with fast service and good quality food. Pricing is comparable on the regular beers to other downtown locations, and the specialty beers are priced fairly based on how unique or rare they are. On my most recent visit as an Alumnus I had a chance to catch up with some of the staff who raved about some of their new selection. I was half-tempted at getting another Zeno's Passport, however that would require quite a bit of drinking on the weekends, which doesn't really align with weight-loss goals. While it definitely qualifies as dive-y ... it is clean and cozy. For small groups it was definitely my go-to and will continue to be when in the company of beer loving friends.
(5)Danny B.
Large selection of craft beer is available. Atmosphere is dingy; it is a basement bar. Live music can be decent here. A little on the pricey side, but that also keeps the clientele more 'cultured' -- many grad students and the like. Service is usually pretty good -- attentive and very knowledgeable.
(4)Slick B.
Don't like to feel that I'm bothering the staff, but that's how they make you feel. regardless of tip
(3)David R.
Literally a hole in the wall, this place probably has enormous profit margins. They have three coolers full of beer, but I was told that this was the best place in the area to get imported Belgian and German beers, and while I didn't find anything too exotic, it did not disappoint. I found all four of the weiss beers that I had hoped to see--Paulaner, Franziskaner, Hoegaarden, and Hacker-Pshorr. I walked out with a six-pack of 12-oz bottles, plus five 500-ml bottles, all for $27.00. Where I come from, that is a hell of a deal. I could have picked up pub cans of Boddington's or Belhaven Scottish Ale, which I love, but it's summer and I wanted weiss beer. They also had some big-brewery selections and a bunch of American microbrews which I didn't take the time to peruse. Something about the explosion of jagged lettering and cartoony label art makes my eyes slide right past those rows. I even found a Samuel Smith organic cider, which was too intriguing to pass up.
(3)Kathleen K.
Let's admit it, Zeno's might be the only decent place to have a beer in State College. I appreciate that they employ people with brains who actually know their product(s) well, which probably has something to do with the fact that they make some bit of money and don't totally hate their lives. Recently I went and they had three bellydancers who were amazing, except for the fact that you couldn't stand anywhere because the men gawking from the bar stools would scream at you if you blocked their view. Our bartender/beer runner introduced me into the world of "Old Chub" which is fancy beer in a can with a high alcohol % ...it was so good and I might not ever drink anything else again when I go there. But that's why I like Zenos, you can learn something new every time you go as long as you use the invaluable resources who work there.
(4)Natalie N.
I have very mixed feelings on Zeno's. I love the underground location, the good selection of beers on tap and the bathroom graffiti. Everything else is mediocre. It irritates me that, unless you know they don't have table service, they'll let you go and sit down like a dumb ass until you figure it out on your own. The bartenders often seem like they're too busy hanging out with each other to actually take your order. Plus there is a serious shortage of interesting clientele - at lot of older folks, regulars (read "alcoholics") and the occasional Bukowski-wannabe. I'll take The Rathskeller over Zeno's any day of the week.
(3)Bob B.
Authentic college dive bar. Didn't go to Penn State, but when traveling to State College, I thought this place was the "rathskeller" - because it's like a Hollywood set, it defines the cliche. In a good way. Well, my bad...the technical/literal Rathskeller is a block away. Don't waste your time, Zenos has been owned by the same family for over 40 years, it's the classic downstairs dark, warm woody college bar with a really good draft and bottled beer selection, above average pub food (great home-made soups) - and a cool staff. Dart boards, pool tables, bands. Classic college template. In the heart of everything. Fun. Fun. Fun. On a football weekend, I can't even imagine how'd they deal with all the happy, nostalgic, drunk alumni. I'd probably enjoy it all the same.
(5)Shuja X.
If you live in State College, you have to grade on a curve. There are limits to this town. Certain things will not be found on an evening out. Neither a tasteful DJ nor a craft cocktail is ever attainable. What is? Zeno's. For one kind of evening, it is perfect. The rustic interior is unpretentious without being divey. The pool table is often free, with a high turnover. The music on the stereo is pleasant and unobtrusive. All that is fine. The beer list is more than fine. This is the only place in State College run by people who are serious about drinking. Who believe drinking has culinary value. Rotating drafts are, at best, unusual and delicious, while bottles offer an even wider selection. If the vastness of this world of beer seems intimidating, the staff can help--particularly the owner, a non-punk skinhead with a goatee, perpetually clad in his Zeno's bowling shirt. Occasionally, you'll spot an unusual bottle of an appealing spirit on the top shelf in the corner. But you go to Zeno's to drink beer. Indeed, for craft beer and conversation, Zeno's is everything you could want. Unfortunately, its perfection is slightly compromised by all-too-frequent cover charges for small-town bar bands that make you feel like you are not in a bar, but a satire. Those seeking the best experience will have to avoid peak time. For that kind of evening, Zeno's is a five-star operation. And that's the only kind of evening you'll want to have in this town.
(5)John M.
Is it the best beer bar ever? No. Is it the best bar in State College? No doubt. Does sentimentality play a huge part in giving it five stars? Bet your ass. About 30 taps and countless bottles fill this dark, basement, wooden-walled bar. It's the type of place that you go into at 2 pm, get lost in beer and conversation, only to realize that the world is going on outside, up the stairs. Who cares though, right? You are at Zenos. The uneven chairs, crowded, tables, and loud acoustics are no bother when you are drinking fantastic Belgians, incredible American micros, and avoiding the typical bar crowd that permeates State College. It's been said many times (including by Playboy) that the bathrooms are littered with the most literate bar-graffiti anywhere. Prove it otherwise. The food is decent enough when you are several beers in, though definitely not a reason to go there. Enjoy the conversation, great staff, and awesome beer. Zeno's will always hold a special place in my heart.
(5)Jackie V.
To me, Zeno's sort of epidomizes "grad student/postdoc bar". Why, you ask? Let me break it down for you.... a. Atmosphere is what I call "dive nouveau". Subterranean location, lots of taps, well-worn decor. If the bar was a dude, it would totally have a three-day scruff. b. Beer selection goes above and beyond (they even have gluten-free beer here!), but everyone already knows that. c. Liquor is cheap (I know, I know....no one besides me comes to Zeno's for drinks that aren't beer, but SOMEone has to do it). d. Music never includes anything that is currently being played on B94.5. e. Average age of the clientele hovers around 26, which is a true feat here in State College. Overall, very "i'm a poor grad student who is old enough to see the value in spending my stipend on craft beer, but not above $2 well drinks"-esque. It's a nice alternative to some of the other white hat bars in town. Like most other bars, however, there is an annoying weekend cover charge, and as many have previously mentioned, the live music is L-O-U-D.
(4)Jessica H.
Awesome bar, love itI Fantastic selection of beers! Calm atmosphere and everyone appears to be pretty cool! Was my favorite place to go for 3/4 years of my college experience! Expect a cover charge on fridays and saturdays, they always have a band. Most of the time it was about 3-5 bucks!
(5)Paige D.
I've had a bar that I can call home for a long time, as the by product of tending bar there. When I came to State College, I knew that I needed to find that bar that I could call home to keep me sane over the next few (or 5) years. Well, thank the Lord for Zeno's! As stated over and over, they have an amazing beer selection here. It's a little more expensive than what I'm used to (I know everyone on the East Coast will kill me for that,) but it's worth every cent. I have an extensive knowledge of microbrews, and this place has things I haven't heard of. One note, is that a bartender questioned my ability to drink beer. It's not like I was standing there in Uggs/leggings drinking a Lambic, then ordered a HopDevil. I was finishing it, said "I'm drinking hopdevil, can you recommend something else like it?" and he proceeded to then tell me that I wanted a sweet beer, not a pale ale. It wasn't until my guy friend vouched that I could "handle real beer" that he gave me one, stating it was a joke and he didn't think I would be able to finish it. He did the same thing to my friend who is also a girl, and we found it a tad condescending. The overall environment and selection, however, far outweighs one person acting rudely.
(4)Phil H.
There's a reason zeno's is considered one of the best places to drink on the east coast. The selection is second to none, the bar itself is certainly large enough with enough entertainment (pool, darts, music) to keep people happy. The "around the world in 80 beers" is a real neat thing (you get your name and a quote on a plaque in the back, along with some swag I believe) if you're around long enough to do it. Much more of a "thinking person's bar" than the phyrst or the saloon.
(4)Joshua N.
Really liked Zeno's. It's the kinda of cool/hip/fun/interesting place you always hope you can find. I'm not a fan of cover charges, but the atmosphere and live music is worth it. I don't remember the band that was there when I visited but it was a nice mix of music and good company. It's a very small and crowded place so get a seat early or be cool with standing. The best part about Zeno's is the beer selection. Oh my the beer. So many great beers. Also, you have to try the shot space herpes. It taste greats and "works". Also, the food here is simple, but tasty. It's exactly what you need. I had the shepard's pie. It was very authentic and very good.
(5)Marcel H.
Awesome beer selection. Even better beer prices. Very nice atmosphere with live music. The back room is a little atmosphere-less, but who says you need to go there?
(4)Amy T.
For awhile this was my second home. The kind of place even a girl would feel comfortable sitting alone at the bar with a beer. Although you will probably make a friend or find a friend quickly if you want, but just as easily could be left alone to enjoy your delicious beer. If you like great beer selection, good live music, friendly staff, laid-back atmosphere, and an eclectic mix of people...GO HERE If you like light domestic beers, dancing/DJ type bars/nightclubs, trendy decor, and people always dressed to impress...you may not like it here. Although you probably won't dislike it here. Staff is knowledgeable and always willing to offer a suggestion. They also do serve food (from the kitchen upstairs at the Corner Room...burgers, fries, etc.) They support local musicians and Otto's Brewery. I love this place!
(5)Josh G.
A foosball table. Sparked a lifelong love affair. Olympic sport soon?
(4)Ashley G.
I think it's sufficient to say that I loved this place, as I was there at least 5 nights a week during my final year at Penn State. 5 nights a week might sound a bit excessive, and sure, I drank excessively from time to time, but my reasons for going there were not to get sloshed. My reasons for making this my bar of choice during my time at Penn State: 1) Cheers. Sometimes you wanna go where everyone knows your name. At least a few years ago, they had the best bar staff in town. 2) Excellent selection of beers. 3) Good entertainment 4) Relaxed atmosphere. I could go in to Zeno's throw back a beer or two, play a game or six of darts, and then head home without having to deal with the bullshit or drama that seemed to inhabit other SC bars. All in all, I miss Zeno's, and hope that the Penn Staters of today are enjoying it as I once did.
(5)D C.
This is one of about 2 bottle shops I go to in State College. The shop is tiny, but they pack a lot in. Prices are not bad, and they have a variety of singles (with mix & match 6 packs) if you want to try several things. Prices are also clearly labeled, which I've found is not always the case in other shops here. The staff is knowledgeable but will leave you alone unless you ask for advice. If you're not seeing something right away, ask -- it takes a bit to know the logic of organizing the place, and sometimes individual things are hard to pick out unless you know what the pattern on your desired 6-pack carton looks like from the side. If you know a little what you're looking for (seasonals, wheats, etc.) or what your priority is (taste vs price, hoppy vs bitter), you can get great recommendations. Because it's PA, your best price is going to come from the distributors, but if you want to buy less than a case this is the best place downtown.
(4)Irene F.
Five stars for having the one and only one beer in existence that can be consumed on passover!! Hooray sorghum beer! I wasn't a huge fan, but the fact that they had it predisposed me quite positively towards this place. Odd pool table (with that who Jim Beam ad on it, a little confusing, but then again I may just be looking for a scapegoat for my piss poor pool playing propensity - say that ten times in a row!). The beer menu is a sight to behold, and the staff is warm and friendly and never lets your cup go dry. Add free internet and plenty of space to sit, and I could easily see myself wasting my college years away in here, except they are already long gone. Pity. Very cool graffiti going on in the bathroom, always fun to read the wondrous intelligence of drunken college students! Oh, and for those of you complaining about the smoke, it's going smoke free very soon, so quit yer bitchin.
(5)Jon D.
This is a craft beer mecca! An amazing number of beers, most of which didn't exist when I went to Penn State, but Zeno's did. I think I counted some 30 taps, almost none of them are crap beer. Bottles: too many to count. And did I mention not two, but three beer engines? When I visited in Nov '08 they were something from Otto's (local brew pub), Victory Hop Devil, and Troeg's Hop Back. Great bartenders too. Your experience may be different depending on when you visit. If you're going for the beer-experience, try late afternoon. Oh, and the steps down to Zeno's are actually on Atherton St, not College Ave.
(5)Marianne C.
Nothing like drunk parents dancing with their drunk children during graduation weekend. Overhead: "Dad, if I post these pictures on Facebook do you think Goldman Sachs will see them?" .... ahhhh not really but it should've been.
(3)Matt R.
Zeno's is simply the best bar in State College.
(5)T J.
Despite having moved to a metropolitan area a few years ago, Zeno's is still my favorite bar hands down. They have an excellent beer selection, which is something that true cities can match, but also a small town hominess, reflected in every aspect of their business from bluegrass night to the fact that the bartenders still know me ( I make it back a few times per year now). As many people have mentioned, Zeno's attracts a more mature clientele than any other SC bar; people who go there truly appreciate beer, and don't just go wherever there are $2 drink specials-- the beer tastings they have are a great way to find new favorites! Plus they seem better-managed than many of the area bars, with several entities controlling all of the town liquor licenses--- you don't see the rapid turnover rate here that you do at other places, and the staff seem to genuinely enjoy what they're doing.
(5)Rachel G.
Just an addition: the food choices aren't bad either! They have a menu with selected choices from both the Allen St. Grill and the Corner Room--think burgers, soups, and wings from the Corner Room and some more "gourmet"-ish food from Allen St. (like things with ahi and things with mango...). I had a bison burger, which was totally standard, but standard goes well with a $5 Yuengling pitcher.
(4)Prakit D.
The only place in State College if you are looking for excellent beer selection as they have so many imported beverages as well as domestic to choose from. I like its underground setting, relaxed atmosphere, and the fact that the staff were very knowledgeable. It can be really crowded on a special night where they have festivals or live bands playing. The bands are mostly folk/bluegrass but sometime they have jazz, blues, and alternative. Get there early if you want to get seat.
(4)SiRick H.
Zeno's a fabulous 'hole in the wall' bar. It's dark and has a very low ceiling, but the beer and atmosphere are great.
(4)Josh H.
If you want to sit down and have a truly amazing selection of beer then this is the place for you. Good for some pool and music. Has more of a calm atmosphere usually as opposed to the G-man/pickles party it up crazy atmosphere. Great place to go, recommended for people that want higher quality drinks.
(3)tiffanie l.
This is a great bar with a crazy selection of beers. Try to start a passport as soon as you turn 21! Service is always great. Even if the place it filled up!
(5)Alex R.
allow me to update my review: my friend and i went there yesterday for cocktails. see, that felt unsafe. he got a dirty vodka martini, i got a bloody mary with peppar. maria, the bartender, put so much effort into both of those drinks. That was the best bloody mary i've ever not made myself. Also, his martini was pretty good, but vodka ain't my thing coach.
(5)Emerson D.
Best Beer selection you will find. Anywhere. Ever.
(4)Alex V.
During my recent visit to State College I was happy to see that not only has Zeno's not changed, but its actually improved. The beer selection has definitely gotten a lot better. Its unrivaled in State College, and would be a destination in any major city as well. The staff is friendly and helpful. There are usually good bands, especially AAA on Friday's. Its really the only bar downtown worth going to if you like good beer.
(5)Bernie P.
Best bar in State College. Sean and Dave are so well versed in beers that you really get to learn about the intricacies in beer while listening to good music in great company.
(5)Matthew D.
By the end of my stint at Penn State, I couldn't stomach any more of the local lousy, half-ass cover bands and/or cookie-cutter "hippie" jam rock any longer. I can deal with bland, horrible music at least if the vibe of the bar is fun. I've been to all the bars and clubs in State College, and most of them are all so "college." Yet, even though the Penn State "bar scene" is supposed to be thriving and diverse, as a Bostonian it gets tired pretty quick. I need a little variety, like some drunk Irishman singing in the corner. It's the little things that make a specific bar feel naturally "real" in some capacity. Unfortunately, you're going to find chicks wearing high heels trying too hard in zero degree weather, and steakheads screaming and spilling beer all over you. Don't get me wrong, I'm all about a good time, but I've seen some pretty ridiculous behavior over the years at Penn State. I mean, a fucking steak head bouncer beat this Asian kid TO DEATH because he was taking a piss in the back alley or parking lot, or whatever. I forget which bar this happened at. Regardless, I had a photography course with this kid, and he was the nicest person you'd ever want to meet. Some huge-ass bouncer beat this skinny little dude to his grave over a PISS? It was really sad. He worked at Sunglasses Hut and I used to shoot the shit with him all the time. There was a trial and stuff, but I forget all the details. I think this was in 2003, if I'm not mistaken. This horrific shit stands as a testament to the outrageously immature and stupid behavior that exists up and down College Ave. Gladly there are a few places that stand out, and Zeno's is one of them. I've been there maybe 20-25 times over the course of a few years, and I've enjoyed nothing but good music and fairly priced pitchers. They are known for their selection of fine beers. I never drank cheap beer at Zeno's, and in some way that is a crucial element of why people come there. They have a wide variety of crafts and ales without being snobby about it. You're not going to find many hammered frat boys drinking Natty Ice at this place. Instead, it's more of a crowd who likes a GOOD beer, and a good time at that. The live music I've seen here has always been way more open/creative/diverse/inspired than at any of the other bars in SC. I used to go see a band called The Red Light at Zeno's once in a while, and they were fantastic. They were not the standard "college" band in any sense, and they drew in a better crowd of like-minded individuals who were sick and tired of karaoke and cover songs. Most of the live music performances were like that. The stage is pretty small, and it's an intimate atmosphere. I remember some jazz and blues acts, folk, and alternative-type rock acts performing at Zeno's also. I think there's something for everybody at this place, and you can call it your own. The downsides are the usual: it gets cramped, it's kind of dark, and it's hard to get to the bar. It's nothing intolerable and it comes with the territory, so deal with it.
(4)Michael M.
i love zeno's but i must say that the new non-smoking rule sucks ass! let bill pickles be non-smoking for all the scenesters, robojocks, and lemmings......i'm headed over to the phyrst! beer selection is top notch...music selection decent.....band selection (live music) is hit or miss. servers are efficient and kind, bartenders are gods...tip well, don't anger the gods. zeno's bouncers are good people and not powertriped. this review was started over two months ago before the statewide smoking ban. haven't been back to town yet, but looks like me and my kind are screwed....thanks all to the insurance lobby! well i'm rambling....but in summary, zeno's is still directly above the center of the earth and is worth checking out next time you are in happy valley. peace, darth of a salesman
(3)Lark P.
My first impression was that I hated it, now its my favorite State College bar. The low ceilings and basement atmosphere... I've grown to love these things. Bluegrass Wednesdays are great, with complimentary Clem's BBQ and local live bluegrass with a $2 cover. It can be hard to get a table on these busy nights after 8:00 or so as it is a small bar. Pool and darts in the back room. Best beer selection in town... and Lindemann's Framboise Lambic on tap, yum. The place to bring visitors for a State College experience.
(5)