Popping onto West Chester’s formidable food stage, Saloon 151 dowses downtown’s colorful array of eateries with barrels of whiskey. Newly minted in the former Kooma space, Saloon 151 is looking to “fill a hole in the market,” says owner Frank Herron. Pairing a serious whiskey spread with slow-cooked meats, this brightly lit space is lively and attractive.
The 12-year resident of West Chester and Barnaby’s veteran partnered with Butch Eby of Joclyn’s of Media to make the Gay Street locale a reality. Tapping the kitchen strength of Chef Greg Caputo and manager Everett Gilliam to round out the leadership team at Saloon 151, the new spot has big plans. With a strong nod to the local arts scene, Herron says that country acoustic nights are in the works. The ties to community are embedded throughout the restaurant; the construction that began March 8 is replete with repurposed materials from in and around West Chester. Even the walls wear local flavor with alcohol-inspired renderings from West Chester painter Kyle Whary.
Prior to the July 1 opening, there were some tense moments. “A tornado on ‘friends and family’ night allowed us to only serve two dinners,” Herron says. But nature’s wrath did not dampen the restaurant’s opening, which “exceeded expectations,” Herron continues. “We have been very well received.”
Caputo’s menu seeks to capture the flavor of the potent spirit with a nod to slow-cooked brisket as well as bar fare like roasted pork, BBQ glazed ribs and saloon fries—a mound of potatoes covered in cheese and shredded beef—that are compelling alongside the bar’s array of whiskey, bottled beer and craft beer on draft. The comfortable pub-style dining area is a relaxed space for 65 with service extending to seating for 20 outside. The initial excitement about the opening of the rugged and handsome spot is catchy and makes a visit worthwhile.
Find Saloon 151 at 151 W. Gay St. in West Chester; phone: (610) 701-8489
