Although they may be the wing sponsor of the wildly popular eating competition, the Wing Bowl, held every year in Philadelphia, there’s much more to P.J. Whelihan’s than crispy chicken wings.
Setting up shop in the past Primavera Pizza Kitchen spot on East Lancaster Avenue, P.J. Whelihan’s expanded to Downingtown last November, opening the 13th P.J. Whelihan’s location since 1983 (the 14th is coming to Bethlehem). Completely gutting the interior of the local Italian kitchen, as well as constructing an attractive overhaul on the exterior, the restaurant group spent over $750,000 on renovations—and it shows.
Now, inviting in bright yellows, brick finishes and wooden floors, the family-friendly and family-run restaurant (still owned and operated by its founder, Robert Platz) excels in casual dining. “We are not an Irish sports bar,” said Jim Fris, chief operating officer of the Haddonfield, N.J.-headquartered company. “We come into the neighborhood to do business with the neighborhood. We are a good community partner.”
Fris, excited about the new P.J.’s location because it is the closest to his home of East Goshen, also reveals that Platz continued to keep his ever-expanding restaurant operation in his family, with two of his nephews continuing in the business—one of which is in management at the Downingtown location.
Excelling in a fun and relaxing environment, P.J. Whelihan’s specializes in above-average bar food. With a menu packed with over 80 options, including their notorious wings offered in seven signature sauces, there is always a choice for all personal preferences and tastes. From 
cheesesteak nachos topped with a heavy dose of fried onions and Chesapeake crab dip served with grilled pitas, to a burger bonanza, bison meat included, and ale house fish n’ chips, consider embracing your obsessions with comfort food tonight at P.J.’s. Of course, there are healthier options, too, including an extension salad menu and grilled seafood entrees.
It also comes with a pleasant surprise that the restaurant has 48 draft lines, tackling both basic American 
selections and 24 taps dedicated to craft beer. Of the always-changing craft beer lineup, find their signature beer, the Copper Lager, made by Victory but found only in P.J. Restaurants. On a recent visit, Brewworks’ Rude Elf’s Reserve, Spring House’s Planet Bean Coffee Stout, Flying Fish’s Hop Fish and Sixpoint’s Old Krusher were found cozy amongst the eatery’s beer lineup.
Not a beer drinker? Find drink specials everyday that include Captain Morgan-spiked cider, Jeremiah Weed Sweet Tea vodka and lemonade and Pepperwood Grove’s wines. Also, take advantage of game specials, which should be easy with 37 flat screen televisions on-site. P.J.’s is an active partner with Comcast Sportsnet—who broadcast live from Downingtown during games.
“Downingtown is a great community to operate in,” said Fris. “Victory Brewing Company proved you can do it and everyone is so welcoming here.”
Find P.J. Whelihan’s at 853 East Lancaster Avenue or online at www.pjspub.com
