An Allentown Institution's Bittersweet Farewell and a Fresh Start

For generations of Allentown residents, Stahley’s Cellarette wasn’t just a place to grab a bite; it was, well, a piece of home, wasn't it? A landmark, an institution, a steady beacon on the city’s culinary map for nearly nine decades. So, the news that this beloved establishment, a true fixture since 1935, is finally changing hands—leaving the Stahley family for the first time—it hits a little different. It’s a moment, really, steeped in both nostalgia and a certain hopeful anticipation.

Think of the stories held within those walls, all the laughter, the quiet conversations, the clinking glasses. The Stahley family, through three generations, has poured heart and soul into creating not just a restaurant, but a genuine community hub. You could count on Stahley's for a comforting meal, for familiar faces, for that undeniable sense of belonging. And, honestly, that's a rare and precious thing in today's fast-paced world, don't you think?

But change, as they say, is the only constant. And then, the news dropped, a little bittersweet, perhaps, but undeniably interesting: Stahley’s Cellarette has been sold. The new owners? Chris and Rebecca Ziatyk. And here’s the kicker, the truly human touch in this whole saga: Chris isn't just some investor; he's a lifelong customer. A true regular. He grew up eating there, celebrated milestones — even, for once, proposed to his wife in that very spot. His parents were regulars, too. You couldn't, in truth, write a better script for the passing of a local torch.

For Ron and Nancy Stahley, the third generation to helm the ship, this decision, one imagines, wasn't made lightly. After 89 years, it’s not just a business; it’s a legacy, a living memory. Ron, speaking with a gratitude you can almost feel, acknowledged the unwavering loyalty of their patrons. It's a testament, surely, to the deep roots they've put down in Allentown, this connection they've forged with so many lives.

But what, you might wonder, becomes of that hallowed ground? Fear not, the spirit, one hopes, will remain. The Ziatyks, it seems, are acutely aware of the weight of history and expectation. Chris has big plans, certainly, for a renovation that will breathe new life into the space, yet — and this is key — he intends to preserve the building’s essential character, its very 'bones.' You could say it’s a respectful evolution rather than a complete overhaul, which is quite reassuring, isn’t it?

He’s calling it 'The Cellar,' a neat little wink to the past, honoring the 'Cellarette' name with a fresh, modern twist. The menu? Expect New American pub fare, a focus on fresh, quality ingredients, perhaps a sophisticated nod to comfort food. And yes, for those wondering, Ziatyk is actively working to recreate some of Stahley's iconic dishes — those beloved clams and fries, for example — perhaps with a contemporary flourish. He wants to keep that cherished neighborhood bar atmosphere, yet introduce some upgrades, including, happily, outdoor seating. What a thought, enjoying a meal under the open sky at what was once Stahley’s.

It's a story, really, about how some places, truly special ones, evolve. A reminder that while faces and names may change, the heart of a community, often found in its cherished gathering spots, can beat on. Here’s to Stahley’s, to its incredible run, and to ‘The Cellar’ — may it carry forward that enduring legacy, welcoming new generations to create their own memories within those familiar, yet freshly polished, walls.