Sharkies, the longtime bar at 110 Sowers Street in State College, has a new look and an updated approach after undergoing renovations and rebranding over the summer. The changes come under the leadership of general manager Wyatt Glover, who stepped into the role in June, and owner Neil Herlocher.
Glover says he saw Sharkies as a space with history and loyal regulars, but also one that could expand its reach by modernizing and expanding the bar’s appeal.
“When I took over Sharkies, I saw a lot of potential,” Glover said. “The bar had a loyal following, but it felt like we could elevate the experience by refreshing some operations, some offerings. My goal was to create a place where both staff and guests feel energized while setting Sharkies up for long-term success.”
One of the most noticeable updates is the extended outdoor patio. The new space provides more seating and flexibility for customers, with TVs, speakers and lawn games such as cornhole. The space of the patio’s extension previously served as the bar’s parking lot.
Inside, Glover reworked the bar setup so drinks can be served and ordered more efficiently, aiming to cut down on long waits during busy hours. He says the improved flow behind the bar is intended to keep service consistent whether on a weeknight or during a packed weekend crowd.
In addition to the patio and bar layout, the basement level was given attention as well. A fresh coat of paint freshened up the interior, and the area has now transitioned into a non-smoking environment.
“We got rid of that aspect since we extended our patio,” Glover said. “I’d like people to use it, and then with it being smoking downstairs before, it felt like that area catered more to the people smoking, and it wasn’t a place that everyone could go enjoy.”
Sharkies has also shifted how it presents itself. Long known as “Sharkies Pool Bar,” the venue is now branded as “Sharkies Cool Bar.” Glover explained that the idea came from Herlocher as a way to modernize the name and reflect a wider range of offerings.
“We wanted to do something fun,” Glover said. “I don’t know if that is going to be a forever thing or if it’s more temporary, but we both just decided to have something a little more modern. We don’t want to be known as just the pool bar. There’s other things we have to offer, too.”
The name change signals that while pool remains part of Sharkies’ identity, the bar is emphasizing variety, from patio games and live music to new events in the works.
Consistent and more versatile programming is another area Glover is looking to expand. In addition to hosting live entertainment, Sharkies is planning the return of karaoke nights and exploring opportunities to host live music, such as bringing in more DJs. The goal, Glover says, is to give people multiple reasons to stop by and stay longer.
“I think it sets us apart in the sense that it’s giving people more options,” he said. “We have the outside patio with cornhole and TVs, so you can go outside and relax or play games, and then, we still have the pool tables on the inside, so it gives you something to do other than just be there and watch whatever game may be on.”
Glover acknowledged that any change comes with adjustment, especially for longtime patrons, but says he’s been encouraged by the reaction so far.
“To be completely honest, the feedback has been mixed, but overall, very encouraging,” he said. “Many of the regulars are excited about the updates, and even the ones that are still adjusting see the positive direction we’re headed in.”
The renovations, programming and rebranding all aim at creating a space where students, alumni and local residents can all feel comfortable and blend.
“The owner and I kind of work together with the vision,” Glover said. “We were looking to create a space that has something for everyone. We wanted people to feel welcomed, whether the guests are just here to relax on the patio, maybe play games inside or just enjoy a lively night at the bar.
“I think the patio really creates a relaxed, social vibe outside. I’ve seen many guests just sitting out there for hours, just talking amongst their friends, maybe walking over to play cornhole. And then, the inside, having the speed of service being a little bit faster, it really helps the energy.”
That inclusivity is central to Glover’s vision.
“I’d love to have that mix where it’s a mingling of everyone, whether it be students or more locals,” he said. “I want to have a place that everyone feels welcome and that they can come and enjoy.”
For Glover, stepping into the general manager role at Sharkies was a chance to build on years of experience in the industry. He previously worked at Primanti Bros. for a decade, forming strong connections with regulars and learning the rhythm of managing a bar.
“Going down there was just like looking at bettering myself, challenging myself in ways that I haven’t been challenged before,” he said. “I wanted to make the next logical step in my career, and I wanted to do it in State College.”
That experience, combined with Herlocher’s ownership, has helped guide Sharkies through its transition period as it reintroduces itself to downtown as a place for all types of crowds.
“I’m trying to make it for everyone,” Glover said. “We might not be doing bike nights anymore, but the inside of Sharkies still feels very much like when I started. We’re going for a vibe that welcomes students and locals alike.”
Sharkies opens at 2 p.m. Sunday through Friday, 11 a.m. on Saturdays, and stays open until 2 a.m. every night.
