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The latter already has 17 locations nationally and five in other Big Ten towns, meaning the borough could communicate with other municipalities on whether Brothers was a good partner. Though similar, there are plenty of differences between Figo Italian and Brothers outside of the food. (Chief John Gardner said calls to establishments with restaurant liquor licenses were significantly greater than calls to other borough properties.) And those same concerns were expressed again Monday with Figo Italian, which described itself in an attorney’s letter as “casual” but described itself at the hearing as “upscale” and not necessarily geared toward students. Ultimately, Council voted 5-1 to approve the transfer with minimal conditions, such as alcohol sales only being allowed when food is still being served.īoth the police chief and neighbors expressed concern the sports bar could lead to an increased strain on police. And, due to state law, Borough Council can choose to deny it - or approve with a number of restrictions, from what time alcohol is served to whether it can even advertise deals involving alcohol.īrothers co-owners Eric and Mark Fortney bristled at some potential restrictions, such as a requirement that food account for 60% of its business, and intimated they couldn’t open if those were implemented.

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While liquor license transfers are not unusual, what makes Figo Italian’s unique is that this license would be coming from outside the borough, giving elected officials greater latitude in deciding how to handle the request.īecause Figo Italian is set to purchase the license from Luna 2, which previously operated in College Township, State College Borough Council must ultimately approve the transfer. College Ave.), according to a public application filed by the restaurant. (EDITOR’S NOTE: The original story, published March 21, has been updated to reflect the April 3 public hearing.)Ī new casual Italian restaurant has shared its intentions to move into downtown State College, but it’s first seeking the transfer of a liquor license - after a similar situation drew some push-back in February.įigo Italian, which has a location in Philadelphia, is looking to open on the ground floor of The Standard at State College (330 W.

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