Settlers Hospitality Expands to Downtown Scranton

Ale Mary’s Under New Management

A Scranton-based developer and Pocono Mountains hospitality group are joining forces to reinvigorate a landmark in the Electric City. ATR Properties tapped Settlers Hospitality to manage restaurant operations at Ale Mary’s at the historic Bittenbender.

The historic building at 126 Franklin Street has been a part of the cityscape for nearly 150 years. In 2014 ATR Properties owner, Art Russo, revamped the previous restaurant model to open a popular gastropub and sports bar. For over a decade Ale Mary’s has been a go-to downtown destination for drinks, dinner and a distinctive event venue. With this new venture, Settlers Hospitality plans to reimagine the layout of the 150-seat restaurant and craft new menu offerings, but still in keeping with the gastropub concept. A rotating selection of nearly 100 craft and import beers, for which Ale Mary’s is known, will continue.

Guests can expect a variety of appetizer and entrée options that are both craveable and affordable. “Settlers Hospitality shares our commitment to preserving the region’s historical treasures and has a proven track record of community and economic revitalization that makes this partnership virtually seamless,” explains owner Art Russo.

Settlers Hospitality has been a leader in boutique hotel and restaurant management for over 40 years with a collection of concepts in Lehigh Valley, the Pocono Mountains, Catskills and Scranton regions. The company is eager to bring its highly regarded reputation and established brand name to the vibrant customer base in Scranton.

“We are delighted to grow operations in Lackawanna County by expanding our footprint into downtown Scranton,” states CEO Justin Genzlinger. “The business ethos of Ale Mary’s at Bittenbender aligns with our core values to preserve our community’s historic real estate treasures and take responsibility to sustain their survival looking forward. Coupled with our non-negotiable passion to provide quality, unique experiences for every guest, it is a recipe for success.”

The restaurant will remain open throughout the transition, which becomes official on July 1. Plans also include the relaunch of Madam Jenny’s, Ale Mary’s speakeasy style nightclub, in the fall. For more information, visit SettlersHospitality.com.