Lachele's owner take over Alpine Taproom

A long-standing Ingersoll dive bar has some new owners who are familiar in the neighborhood.

The big picture: Cory Wendel, the owner of Lachele's, is taking over the Alpine Taproom along with partners Walter Lauridsen and Jake Sparks — but don't expect any drastic changes except a credit card machine.

• "It is staying true blue to the Alpine," Wendel says.

What they're saying: Wendel says he was drawn to the bar's old-school Wisconsin-style charm, especially during the holidays when it becomes a gathering place for friends to hang out with a few pitchers.

• He plans on bringing back a pinball machine and is hunting for a jukebox machine to replace the broken one.
• A goal is to keep the traditions and nostalgia of the space, but bring "new life" to it.

What's new: Expect an expanded beer and liquor menu, but popular domestics like Schlitz will remain.

• They also plan on adding more televisions for games and staff will bring in crock pots and snacks for customers.
• Expect bar games and a pool league as they "have a little fun with it," he says.

Zoom in: Hours will expand from noon to midnight everyday, except shortened hours on Mondays.

• People are welcome to bring their food over from Lachele's and grab a drink.

The intrigue: While the Alpine has been known as a Packers bar, Wendel says they're taking down the signs and treating the space more like a "Midwest sports bar."

• "Whoever's in there, what do they want to watch?" Wendel says.

What's next: The Alpine Taproom is expected to reopen in the next two weeks.