Coplay Cabin, 33 N. Second St., is a newly established business using the revitalized, iconic former Log Cabin Tavern in the borough of Coplay. Under its new owner, local entrepreneur Richard Safi, Coplay Cabin celebrated a grand opening event Sept. 25, with a bar filled with patrons excited the business has reopened.

At the grand opening, Safi said the revitalized Coplay Cabin will provide a family-friendly, smoke-free dining experience, with two bars. One specializes in only Pennsylvania craft beers and wines, and one features an upscale bar menu while maintaining the atmosphere of a neighborhood establishment for families and friends.

Safi added Coplay Cabin plans to recapture the mystique, success and unique grandeur of the former Log Cabin Tavern, with a goal of providing a five-star experience for all guests.

State Rep. Jeanne McNeill, D-133rd, sent a certificate of recognition, which was read by Coplay Mayor Bill Leiner Jr. McNeill was out of town but wanted to ensure the event was celebrated. The mayor read a proclamation declaring Sept. 25-28 as Coplay Cabin weekend in Coplay.

Safi and his staff were delighted with the grand opening and look forward to providing a five-star experience for patrons. Their excitement was palpable.

Previously, the building was called the Coplay Log Cabin and dates back to 1936. It was opened by Frank Kukitz (sometimes spelled as Kulitz) who was a big game hunter and notable outdoorsman. Kukitz built the distinctive, rustic log facade and interior using trees harvested from the Pocono Mountains in a lodge format, mirroring his enjoyed time spent in the outdoors.

Kukitz enlisted local volunteers, many of whom were cement workers from the area’s booming industrial sector, to help erect the unique building. The original Coplay Log Cabin included connected bowling alleys, a large hall that frequently hosted polka dances and hotel rooms upstairs.

Later, Walter F. Tapler owned and operated the Log Cabin for 23 years until his retirement in 1982. It operated under the Log Cabin Tavern name for roughly 30 years. During this time, it was a popular restaurant and bar where friends gathered for a pleasant evening of socializing.

The beauty of the restaurant is that it preserves the historical roots of the building and honors Kukitz’s dream of building a restaurant/tavern that captured his passion for the outdoors.