You'd think a place inspired by Jack Tripper would end up inciting a kitsch overload, but the Beagle pulls it off. Lounge seating arranged around a cozy fireplace invites happy-hour patrons to sit back and let the nostalgia wave take hold, while bar-height tables and a row of booths help accommodate the ever-growing after-work crowd. As if the wood-paneled walls weren't shrieking "Seventies!" already, they've been adorned with plenty of snapshots from sitcoms of that era. "Joanie Loves Chachi," "Charlie's Angels" and of course, "Three's Company" all represent. Plasma televisions churn through classic commercials and loop through episodes of VH1's "I Love the '70s" and "I Love the '80s" series. As expected, the DJs pump out plenty of classic '70s and '80s tunes, but they also brilliantly incorporate classic TV theme songs into their sets, resulting in impromptu (and at times, involuntary) sing-a-longs.

A strictly enforced dress code has been established to ensure the comfort of the Beagle's esteemed clientele: Richard Simmons shorts, Members Only jackets and construction boots are not permitted under any circumstances. A full bar offers up some specialty nostalgia drinks; the Tony Danza Extravaganza is a crowd-favorite. An extensive menu offers an expected selection of bar grub, with one glaring eccentricity: fondue.

The Beagle is poised to become a favorite for television buffs, nostalgia junkies and more than its fair share of irony-hugging bar-hoppers.

Centerstage Reviewer: K. Tighe