501 Grill & Tavern

Nestled just off Route 501 in the heart of scenic Mt. Aetna, PA, 501 Grill & Tavern is the neighborhood bar & grill where flavor-packed comfort food and a welcoming atmosphere go hand in hand. Locals and travelers alike are drawn to its casual charm, diverse menu, and well-stocked bar. Whether you’re fueling up after a day on the trails or unwinding with friends over a cold one, 501 Grill & Tavern delivers a warm, inviting experience that keeps patrons coming back for more.

Signature Wings & Wednesday Wing Night
If there’s one thing 501 Grill & Tavern is known for, it’s their wings. Consistently heralded as “the best wings in the county,” these golden, crispy delights strike the perfect balance between crunch and juiciness. Guests rave that they’re “cooked perfectly crispy but still juicy inside,” and the array of house-made sauces—from tangy buffalo to smoky barbecue—ensures every bite is a taste revelation. Wednesday Wing Night has become a weekly ritual for wing aficionados, drawing crowds eager to sample special flavors and swap sauce recommendations late into the night.

More Tasty Fare—From Loaded Waffle Fries to Handheld Favorites
Beyond wings, the kitchen turns out a variety of hearty bar classics and inventive spins on comfort food. The loaded waffle fries are a must-try: perfectly crisp potato pillows piled high with cheese, bacon bits, and green onions, served with two dipping sauces for maximum flavor contrast. Diners describe them as “intense and delicious,” a sharable appetizer that stands tall even among the wing legend. While the majority of orders arrive piping hot and expertly seasoned, 501 Grill & Tavern’s culinary team welcomes feedback and continuously refines their recipes to minimize the occasional undercooked or lukewarm dish.

A Bar Experience That Rocks—Featuring the “Drunk Witch”
At the heart of 501 Grill & Tavern is its vibrant bar scene. Talented bartenders like Michel and Kurt mix up classic cocktails alongside inventive seasonal creations. With Halloween on the horizon, don’t miss the “Drunk Witch,” a festive, fruity concoction that’s as memorable as its name—“Michel knows her stuff,” one patron quipped after their first spooky sip. The bar’s rotating taps and well-curated spirits list ensure there’s always something new to try, whether you’re into local drafts, premium bourbons, or artisanal mixers.

Service That Shines—When It Shines
Hospitality at 501 Grill & Tavern is often described as friendly and attentive, especially when you’re seated at the bar. Brian, in particular, has earned a reputation as a standout server whose genuine warmth and quick recommendations elevate the overall experience. “We sat at the bar and Brian was the best!” shared a recent traveler. That said, a few guests have reported service hiccups—ranging from indifferent attitudes to longer-than-desired table waits. Management takes these comments to heart, striving to standardize training so every visit feels as smooth and personable as the best nights out.

Cozy Ambience with Room for Growth
Step inside and you’ll notice the relaxed, pub-style décor that makes 501 Grill & Tavern feel like a second home. Wooden booths, sports screens tuned to the big games, and friendly chatter set the stage for good times. While most diners praise the cozy environment and diverse menu, a handful have mentioned sticky floors or minor cleanliness lapses. The owners recognize that maintaining a spotless dining room is as important as crafting perfect wings, and routine checks throughout service help ensure the space remains inviting from open to close.

Value & Pricing—Fair Portions, Fluctuating Perceptions
Value at 501 Grill & Tavern generally scores high marks. Generous portions and high-quality ingredients convince many guests that their tab is more than justified—“Food was great at a very decent price,” one review notes. On the flip side, some feel the menu’s gradual shift toward upscale bar fare nudges prices upward. Whether you’re here for a solo burger or a feast of wings and loaded fries with friends, you’ll find that each dish is designed to offer satisfying flavor and hearty portions that encourage sharing and lingering over conversation.

Come See What All the Buzz Is About
As Mt. Aetna’s go-to bar and grill, 501 Grill & Tavern strikes a comfortable balance between neighborhood hangout and destination spot. From legendary wing nights and loaded waffle fries to crafty cocktails and standout bartenders like Brian and Michel, there’s always something to celebrate. Drop in any night of the week—your seat at the bar is ready, and the wings are waiting.