
501 Bar and Lounge
501 Bar and Lounge in Reading is a cozy bar and grill known for its friendly service, flavorful curry goat, and affordable drink specials. Enjoy pool, darts, and great music in a laid-back atmosphere.
What people love about 501 Bar and Lounge
Curry Goat Platter
Cited as exceptionally flavorful and distinctive, encouraging others to try it first.
Long Island Iced Tea by Ben/Bianca
Multiple patrons single out this cocktail and the bartenders who craft it as a must-have experience.
$1.50 PBR Draft
Highlighted as an outstanding bargain that keeps customers coming back.
Pool, Darts & Jukebox Entertainment
The combination of bar games and a diverse music selection is frequently praised as a key attraction.
Key Themes from Reviews of 501 Bar and Lounge
Drink Quality & Specials
PositiveCustomers love the well-made cocktails and value-driven drink specials.
Food Quality
MixedWhile many rave about dishes like curry goat and wings, some find the food inconsistent or underwhelming.
Staff Friendliness & Service
PositiveGuests repeatedly praise bartenders and servers by name for being attentive, funny, and welcoming.
Atmosphere & Space
MixedSome visitors enjoy the intimate, laid-back vibe, while others feel the space is too cramped and occasionally uninviting.
Pricing & Value
PositivePatrons appreciate the establishment’s consistently low drink and food prices.
Entertainment & Amenities
PositiveOn-site games, jukebox music, and DJs are seen as major draws that keep customers entertained.
Safety & Security
NegativeSeveral reviews report feeling unsafe or unwelcome due to unruly patrons and rude security.
About 501 Bar and Lounge
Welcome to 501 Bar and Lounge
Nestled in the heart of Reading, PA, 501 Bar and Lounge is your go-to bar & grill for laid-back evenings, memorable cocktails, and good old‐fashioned fun. Whether you’re winding down after work, catching up with friends, or seeking a lively weekend scene, 501 delivers an inviting atmosphere that keeps locals—and first-time visitors—coming back for more.
Drink Specials and Signature Cocktails
At 501 Bar and Lounge, drink quality isn’t an afterthought—it’s a centerpiece of the experience. Home to unbelievably low prices like $1.50 PBR drafts and rotating specials on Absolut, Crown Royal, Jameson, Jack Daniel’s, Vegas Bombs, and $4 Jäger Bombs, this bar proves premium pours don’t have to come with a premium price tag. But the real standout moments happen at the bar rail: ask for Ben or Bianca’s legendary Long Island iced tea, and you’ll see why patrons cheer, “Run, don’t walk, and get your own!” Their perfectly balanced blend of spirits, citrus, and just the right amount of ice has earned them a cult following.
Flavorful Eats and Crowd-Pleasing Plates
No bar experience is complete without food, and at this Reading grill, the menu delivers both comfort and surprises. The curry goat platter—tender, aromatic goat served with cabbage—earns rave reviews from adventurous eaters: “The food was delicious! You won’t be sorry.” Meanwhile, classic wings, loaded fries, and shareable appetizers satisfy the late-night munchies. While a handful of guests note the kitchen can be inconsistent on busy nights, most agree that generous portions and well‐seasoned fare make 501 a budget-friendly spot where cravings meet their perfect match.
Attentive Staff and Warm Service
It’s one thing to pour a great drink; it’s another to pair it with genuine hospitality. At 501 Bar and Lounge, bartenders and servers like Stacy are the heart and soul of the experience—topping off drinks, sharing a laugh, and remembering your favorite order on the next visit. “Stacy was always ready to fill my drink or make me laugh with a clever joke,” says one regular. Their upbeat energy turns first-time guests into familiar faces, creating a welcoming vibe that feels like Cheers, but with pool tables and darts.
Laid-Back Atmosphere with Entertainment
Want to test your pool skills or sharpen your aim at the dart board? 501 has you covered. With on-site games, a jukebox stocked with classic rock, hip-hop, and everything in between, and a DJ spinning tunes on Thursday nights, the entertainment keeps the good times rolling. Whether you’re plotting your next 8-ball victory or dancing to a throwback beat, the space adapts to your mood. It’s cozy, intimate, and—on quieter evenings—the perfect backdrop for conversation. During peak times, it can feel snug, and security maintains order; early arrivers snag the best seats and enjoy a more relaxed flow.
Unbeatable Value for Price-Conscious Patrons
Value isn’t just a buzzword here—it’s a way of life. From $1.50 drafts to affordable appetizers like nachos and loaded potato skins, 501 Bar and Lounge proves that great nights out don’t have to break the bank. Customers often share stories of epic happy hours where wings and beers flow freely without wiping out their wallets. This commitment to accessible pricing doesn’t compromise quality—it encourages guests to explore new cocktails, linger over plates, and return time after time.
A Community Hub in Reading, PA
501 Bar and Lounge isn’t just another spot on Penn Street—it’s a gathering place that reflects the warmth and grit of Reading itself. Regulars form friendships over pool tournaments, birthday celebrations, and DJ-powered dance-offs. Local artists and small groups gravitate here for open mic nights or casual catch-ups. Despite the occasional hiccup—like a rowdy patron or curt security response—the management listens, adapts, and always strives to keep the good vibes rolling.
Plan Your Visit
Ready to experience Reading’s beloved bar & grill? Stop by 501 Bar and Lounge for unbeatable drink deals, craveable dishes, and an atmosphere that feels like home. Whether you’re in the mood for Ben’s famous Long Island iced tea, curry goat that transports you to Caribbean shores, or a spontaneous game of darts, you’ll find it here. Check social media or give them a call to learn about tonight’s specials, live DJs, and theme nights. At 501 Bar and Lounge, every visit writes a new chapter in your story—so pull up a stool, raise your glass, and become part of the tradition.
Unique Details About 501 Bar and Lounge
Crowd
- Groups
- College students
Payments
- Debit cards
- Credit cards
Planning
Amenities
- Restroom
- Bar onsite
Offerings
- Beer
- Food
- Wine
- Alcohol
- Cocktails
- Food at bar
- Hard liquor
Atmosphere
- Casual
- Trendy
Highlights
- Sports
- Bar games
- Fast service
- Great cocktails
- Great beer selection
Popular for
- Solo dining
Dining options
- Lunch
Service options
- Dine-in
- Takeout
Alternative Local Businesses in Reading, PA
Contact Information for 501 Bar and Lounge
Customer Reviews
4.1 out of 5 stars
Based on 118 reviews
Review data
5 star reviews
- 55%
4 star reviews
- 19%
3 star reviews
- 14%
2 star reviews
- 3%
1 star reviews
- 8%
Working Hours / Hours of Operation
- Monday:
- Closed
- Tuesday:
- 12-8PM
- Wednesday:
- 12-8PM
- Thursday:
- 12PM-12AM
- Friday:
- 12PM-2AM
- Saturday:
- 12PM-2AM
- Sunday:
- Closed





