Sports bar in Cumberland County closes after 15 years

A sports pub and neighborhood gathering spot in Cumberland County has closed.

The Grotto Pub at 104 Market St. in the West Fairview section of East Pennsboro Township, announced its closure over the weekend via a Facebook post.

“I wish we had good news, but unfortunately the property owner is unwilling to renew our lease so it is with very heavy hearts that we tell you that Grotto Pub is permanently closed,” said owners Joe and Phil Calla.

The Grotto opened in 2009, one of a string of establishments including The Village Inn that had operated at the address.

During the 1800s, it was known as the Keystone Hotel and served as a stopping point for ferry travelers coming on the Susquehanna River. By the turn of the century, it was named the West Fairview Inn.

The Grotto served seafood such as crab legs, mussels and crab cakes, and wings, sandwiches, and pasta. It was also a popular spot for live music, trivia and Notre Dame football viewing.

Boiled down, the Grotto was a hidden gem with faithful following. In their message, the Callas shared it’s hard to say goodbye to the business and customers.

“We are so thankful to have been a part of this tight-knit community for the past 15 years. We’ve enjoyed some great music, celebrated many Super Bowls, and we even survived a pandemic together,” they wrote.

“We wish you all the best and hope you will think of us every time you eat a crab cake or do a cherry bomb,” they added.