The Park Bench was a Park Avenue fixture for more than 20 years. Formerly tucked behind Pontillo's pizzeria in the current location of Dragonfly, this little spot was a home away from home for many a bar-goer, and there was a sense of sadness when the lease wasn't renewed last year, forcing the popular joint to close.

Good news for those that lost that home: as of late last month the Park Bench is back, relocated a few blocks over on Monroe Avenue in the space formerly occupied by Lumiere Photo. A lot has changed, but owners Bill Pyrczak and Scott Heagle have ensured that the name and the eclectic mix of people that hang out there have not.

Even though the new home is on Monroe, Pyrczak says that they didn't dare change the name: "People know the name." Indeed they do, as when we stopped by only a few weeks after opening, there was a good-sized crowd in the establishment and almost a homecoming type of atmosphere.

The former Park Bench digs were a little on the "divey" side, but don't worry, it's not like the new place is all shiny, new, and impersonal. In fact, for a place that has never been a bar, this space seems comfy and lived in. Pyrczak was happy to hear that feedback, as he says they made a real effort to make the location cozy. From the brick wall that was Pyrczak's idea, to the paint that his wife and daughter picked out, the effort was well worth it.

From the outside, you get the impression that the bar is going to be a tight squeeze, but walking inside we found it to be surprisingly roomy. A substantial bar allows patrons to fan out while waiting for one of the 13 beers on draft, and scores of little nooks with seating give you plenty of space to call your own. I also loved the exposed ceilings, which further give the place an it's-been-around-awhile feel. My favorite spot ended up being the wooden window seat, big enough to sit cross-legged and chat. I hope once the word gets out on the bar, they remove the signs covering the windows, as the window seat will be a perfect spot to sip a beer and people watch. (Pyrczak assures me they will, as soon as they decide on a sign).

There is also a well placed pool table and dartboards to entertain those who have a competitive edge. What were most impressive were the bathrooms. I know it sounds odd, but especially as a woman, nicer bathrooms in a bar make it a lot more inviting. In fact, it's almost as important as the beer selection.

There are still changes ahead for the Park Bench. Food service is planned in the upcoming weeks, with a focus on typical pub food. On Saturdays, Park Bench will be introducing live music, up on my favorite window seat. Ultimately, what Pyrczak and Heagle really wanted to recreate was the friendly, open atmosphere that the former location had. I have to say, this is one of those places I would be entirely comfortable cozying up to the bar alone, although it shouldn't be hard to convince people to hang out here. It's just that kind of spot, and like Pyrczak hoped for, comfy like an old pair of shoes.

The Park Bench is located at 439 Monroe Avenue, and is open Monday-Friday 5 p.m.-2 a.m., Saturday-Sunday 2 p.m.-2 a.m.