Downtown State College, like many college towns, is known for its various drinking establishments. One of those bars is even receiving a bit of national recognition. Men’s Health recently named  the “Best College Beer Bars in America,” and Zeno’s was one of the top twenty.

Located at 100 West College Avenue, Zeno’s has been in business since 1972. This is what Men’s Health had to say about the place:

This basement bar is a Nittany Lion favorite, and features everything a college student needs to make it through exam season: A steady stream of live music acts (usually indie-style bands), super-knowledgeable staff, a few pool tables and arcade games, and more than 30 brews on tap, from local Keystone State favorites Yuengling and Stoudt’s to more exotic craft and European options. Their wry motto: “We’re located directly above the center of the Earth.”

General Manager, Dave Staab, gave credit to several different groups of people for the recognition including local breweries, distributors, and patrons. “We’ve had an active, extensive beer program since 1981, including the Beer Passport, weekly BeerFests, Brewer Visits, cask beers, vintage beers, and our own Zeno’s rye ale,” Staab said.

BeerFests take place every Tuesday this summer, and Zeno’s also offers live music and trivia contests. “The locals, visitors, and students have been very receptive to new tastes and supportive of local breweries and rare, exotic beers as well,” added Staab.

In addition to Zeno’s, bars located in Ann Arbor, Michigan; Bloomington, Indiana; Madison, Wisconsin; and Columbus, Ohio also made the cut. While that may not be helpful this year, it is something to keep in mind for future Big Ten road trips.

“It’s cool to be recognized once in a while and nice to be in such good company,” said Staab.

I have never actually set foot in Zeno’s, but if it’s good enough for Karl Rominger, it’s good enough for all of us.