State College is anticipating a new restaurant opening over the summer months, as The Press: Cider and Craft Beverage Tap House, to be known as The Press colloquially, will open at the former location of The Deli. The Press is hoping to open its doors by Arts Fest 2025 at 113 Heister St.

The Press hopes to be an intellectual merging of town and gown, co-owner and Penn State professor Kory Blose said.

“The Press is the collaborative vision of a small team of Penn State alumni and long-time Pennsylvania residents—people with deep roots in beverage fermentation, agriculture, and science,” Blose said. “The idea grew from a shared passion for not only making exceptional cider, mead, and wine, but also creating a space where ideas and people could mix. We wanted to build a place that celebrates craft and conversation equally — something different from anything else in town.”

Whether it’s putting together the toughest trivia night in town or simply inspiring intellectual conversation over mead, The Press wants to set itself apart from the other downtown bars. That all starts with its menu.

The Press will offer 10 rotating taps of cider, mead, and wine from its brands and local collaborators, four taps of Pennsylvania-based craft beer, two taps of guest Pennsylvania cider, and a rotating cocktail menu featuring Pennsylvania-made spirits with unique cocktails featuring its own cider. There won’t be a full kitchen available at The Press, but it will offer pre-packaged food and encourage guests to check out nearby restaurants.

Blose said The Press will offer Cider Society memberships that include perks like a free weekly pint, exclusive tastings, and special event invites. It’s also interested in hosting talks or department events from Penn State faculty.

The Press expects to be open from 4 to 11 p.m. on Wednesday and Thursday, from 4 p.m. to midnight on Friday, from noon to 1 a.m. on Saturday, and from noon to 8 p.m. on Sunday. The bar will take the day off on Monday and Tuesday.

“We’re not just another bar — we’re a destination for thoughtful drinking and meaningful connection,” Blose said.

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