The Alchemist and Barrister Restaurant and Pub is set to mark its 40th anniversary with a renovation and expansion.
Plans includes a new exterior, revamped entrances and additional bar. The A&B is set to remain fully open during the process.
Set in an historic building at 28 Witherspoon St., the A&B opened on New Year’s, 1974. Throughout its 40th anniversary year, the restaurant is set to host a number of events and fundraisers and introduce new facilities and services to the Princeton pub.
Expansions are underway at restaurant with the addition of a second bar.
One of the dining rooms will be expanded by 15 feet to make room for a second bar that will include a stage area to accommodate musicians who play regularly at the A&B.
In addition, plans call for new windows and French doors opening onto the alley and into the new bar.
New beer taps will be added, bringing the total number of taps in the restaurant to 50. The A&B has already paved the way for these innovations by renovating and expanding the basement to make space for the new taps and barrels. The project took one year to complete.
According to executive chef and owner Arthur Kukoda, the renovation will enable The A&B to expand its selection of craft beers on tap.
“Craft beers are thriving nationwide, and they have special appeal to our diverse customer base here in Princeton,” he said in a statement. Kukoda also notes that craft beers go particularly well with The A&B’s eclectic menu that includes American, Irish, Asian and Latin American specialties.
The Alchemist & Barrister is the vision of attorney Frank Armenante and his cousin, chemist Walter Kieg. Hence the singular title of The Alchemist & Barrister.
Today, the Armenante family remains its chief owners and operators as Frank’s daughter, Amanda Armenante, takes her place as the A&B’S general manager.
More information is online at alchemistandbarrister.com.
