Tuesday 22nd of April 2008 10:52:54 PM

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As a semi-frequent visitor, I echo Evil_Keith's review and strongly encourage visitors to buy drink tokens for those who partake in the Wednesday evening Colloquium. The presence of Guinness on draught is largely due to the efforts of Tim, Brian, Geoff, Ginny, and various friends and family members, who discuss philosophy, politics, history, and such while doing their part to ensure the Guinness never lasts long enough for the keg to go stale. Oh, and that church that is less than 1,000 yards away? I've enjoyed pints with both its clergy and laity. God bless us, every one.

Wednesday 27th of June 2007 01:33:54 PM

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I'd like to begin with a bit of the history that I learned about this place before the actual review.
The building that Center Lounge is in has been a tavern, in one incarnation or another, since 1902.
The same family has had the liquor license continuously for over 75 years. This is believed to be an Indiana state record.
There is a local ordinance that states that a tavern can not be within 1000 feet of a church. There is a church less than 1000 feet away, but the bar was here first.

This place very much has the feel of a neighborhood tavern. The clientele had a very local and friendly feel.
An antique icebox sits in a corner, dark wood, glass and mirrors adorn the front. The icebox has been converted to electric and is here til this day because it no longer fits out through the doors.
Dark heavy wood paneling lines the wall behind the three upholstered booths. Lighter 70's paneling covers the wall behind the bar.
Beerlight and signs are spread throughout the interior. Several electronic games are there for your enjoyment.
Food is served for lunch on Wednesdays and lunch and supper on Fridays. All of your standard barfare is included, but with much more. The emphasis seems to be heavily on seafood with dinners like Lake Perch, Walleye, Crab cakes, Scallops, Shrimp, and froglegs.
On this visit I did not try the food, but I could easily have found something here.

Roughly 3 years ago the third generation took over management of the bar and decided to try to turn it into a beerbar. Micros, crafts, and imports were put on tap. Bottles of all description were brought in.
The story I was told says that kegs of beer like Three Floyds would go bad before the kegs were emptied.
Currently on tap were two macros, Guiness, Foster's, and Stella Artois.
The bottle selections included Sam Adams, Bass, Harp, Grolsch, and Amstel light.
This is not currently what I would refer to as a beerbar, but it does have a certain charm.

If you, as many do, find yourself in Whiting for the annual "Pierogy Fest" and the heat gets to be a bit too much this would still be a nice place to cool off and have a pint or two.
http://www.pierogifest.net/