A new drinking establishment opened up on Beaver Ave. Tuesday night, giving the Phyrst a classier and more conspicuous counterpart. The bar has not officially been named yet, but the waitstaff said that it will likely be called “The Clover”, sticking with the Phyrst’s Irish theme.

If one was to walk down Beaver Ave, they might not even notice the bar inside the new glass windows next to Ernie’s Cheesesteaks. There are no signs or advertising yet — only a long line of people still piling in to the old Phyrst.

When you walk in, it’s hard to believe that this place is even associated with the grimy dungeon we all know as the Phyrst. Instead of sticky benches and graffiti-filled tables, there are swanky tables and bar seating. Instead of half naked Phyrst girls, there is a professionally dressed wait staff. Rather than throwing around pitchers of Miller Light and shots of Vladdy, the new place offers a large beer selection on tap.

I was struck by how nice everything was, with the Phyrst only steps away. Six big TVs flanked the bar, with booth and table seating throughout. One thing that could end up being a problem is the size — the place is small, and signs posted on the wall indicated a maximum occupancy of 100 people.

The kitchen of Ernie’s Famous Cheesesteaks is also connected, and you can order anything from their delicious menu (fries — must have the fries) while enjoying the great atmosphere and beer of “the new Phyrst.”

The new place could end up being a popular summer location, too. A railing extends from the windows, which seems in indicate an outdoor seating option or at least open air seating when the temperature improves.

All in all, this new place should be a great addition to the downtown scene for people just wanting to have a casual drink and enjoy the atmosphere without loud bar bands or excessive drunken debauchery. Basketball games were on the TVs, a Beatles album was playing over the light conversation, and the beer was as good as any place in State College, aside from Zeno’s and the Z Bar.