When Jim DelValle opened Bean Counters Café two and a half years ago, he divided the building in half between a coffee shop and a video arcade.

When the video game business slowed, DelValle decided to try something new with that space. While the coffee shop had always offered entertainment for those younger than 21, he decided a venue for patrons 21 years and older serving beer and wine would be a way to supplement the revenue he was losing from the arcade.

"There are a lot of coffee shops going this way now," DelValle said. "While getting a full liquor license is very difficult, it's not that hard to get a license serving only beer and wine. But it does take a lot of time."

When planning Crowbar, DelValle went with a 1940s look and feel.

"I love those times, and on a recent trip to New York City, I saw a lot of places like this," he said. "It's a really low key, mellow, neat atmosphere. It's quiet, not loud."

Two separate sets of employees staff the businesses. And while DelValle thought he might encounter some initial resistance to serving alcohol, so far, he has not.

"People are excited this place is here," he said. "Despite bad weather, we had a good crowd on opening day."

Bean Counters also is doing well.

"Starbucks will always be ahead of the game, but I'm right behind them," he said. "Some people really like to go to someone independent."

Bean Counters Café/The Old Crowbar

Location: 8413 Kennedy, Highland

Owner: Jim DelValle

Number of employees: Three

When opened: June

Type of business: Bar