YOUR GUIDE TO BARS AND NIGHTLIFE IN THE CHIPPEWA VALLEY
What to do & Where to drink
N PA SU RC LT H WH ED E N
fre e!
More than 180 establishments listed!
CO
2011
LEAH DUNBAR
OFFICE
17 S. Barstow St. Eau Claire, WI 54701
CONTACT Phone: (715) 552-0457 Inter-web: www.volumeone.org Email: mail@volumeone.org PUBLISHER / EDITOR / ETC Nick Meyer MANAGING EDITOR Trevor Kupfer ASSISTANT EDITOR Kinzy Janssen ON-LINE EDITOR Mike Paulus RESOURCE & LISTINGS EDITOR Tyler Griggs WEB DEVELOPMENT MASTER Don Ross BAR LISTING TASKFORCE Kinzy Janssen + Trevor Kupfer + Lizzie Resch PHOTOGRAPHERS Andrea Paulseth + Leah Dunbar + Katie LeBrun + Frank H Robinson + Allison Louks + Mike O’Brien + Michael Bartsch CONTRIBUTORS Kristin Frosch + Lauren Buelow + Sarah Dobs ADVERTISING MANAGER Shawn Brunner ADVERTISING EXECUTIVES Chase Kunkel + Neil Hodorowski ART DIRECTOR/DESIGNER Brian Moen ADVERTISING DESIGNER Josh Smeltzer THANKS Frank Smoot BASIC INFO Night Out is published by Volume One – a locally owned, locally operated, and locally focused magazine. Night Out is distributed to more than 300 locations in Eau Claire, Menomonie, and Chippewa Falls. RESTAURANT INFO We did our best to include all restaurants in our area. If we missed yours or if you have a new restaurant that you’d like listed in the next issue of Eat Scene, call: (715) 552-0457 or email: mail@volumeone.org. ON-LINE DINING GUIDE This guide is available in a highly searchable format on our website at VolumeOne.org. Every restaurant in the valley is listed and up-to-date, plus there are photos, maps/directions, and reviews. ADVERTISING INFO Night Out, the best and most complete guide to bars in the Chippewa Valley, is read by nearly 50,000 locals and tourists each year. If you’d like to advertise in the next issue, call: (715) 552-0457 or email: mail@volumeone.org. ON THE COVER A photograph of downtown Eau Claire’s The Fire House by Andrea Paulseth. © 2011 Volume One The writing, artwork, and photography in Night Out remain the property of the authors, artists, & photographers. The opinions expressed here are not necessarily those of the publication or its advertisers.
MIXING IT UP WITH A SMILE The Log Jam, downtown Menomonie
ANDREA PAULSETH
Groove things shaken, not stirred at the Ramada (downtown Eau Claire)
YOUR GUIDE TO BARS & NIGHTLIFE IN THE CHIPPEWA VALLEY
articles & more HISTORIC TAVERNS MEAT RAFFLES BAR WALL TREASURES
4 8 10
ONLINE BAR GUIDE INFO DEAL DIRECTORY ADVERTISER INDEX
17 32 34
bar listing categories ALTOONA CHIPPEWA - DOWNTOWN CHIPPEWA - NORTHSIDE CHIPPEWA - SOUTHSIDE CHIPPEWA - EAST HILL CHIPPEWA - WEST HILL CHIPPEWA - OUTSKIRTS DURAND EAU CLAIRE - DOWNTOWN EAU CLAIRE - EASTSIDE EAU CLAIRE - NORTH EAU CLAIRE - SOUTH EAU CLAIRE - WESTSIDE
12 12 14 14 14 15 15 16 16 19 20 20 22
EAU CLAIRE - WATER ST. 24 EAU CLAIRE - OUTSKIRTS 25 ELK MOUND 26 FALL CREEK 26 LAKE HALLIE 28 MENOMONIE - DOWNTOWN 28 MENOMONIE - EAST 29 MENOMONIE - NORTH 29 MENOMONIE - SOUTH 31 MENOMONIE - OUTSKIRTS 31 OSSEO 31 STRIP CLUB 31 LGBTQ BAR 31
bar quicklists MUSIC VENUES WEEKLY KARAOKE LATE NIGHT MUNCHIES
13 15 19
DANCE FLOORS LEAGUES BOWLING ALLEYS
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23 27 31
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Historic Taverns it’s important to know where your watering hole has been Compiled By Kristin Frosch
I
Wigwam Tavern
f you’ve lived in the Chippewa Valley long enough, you know that many of the bars and taverns in the area are old. So, we thought we’d delve into the history of some of these places and see what we could find. While some of the past has been recorded, a surprising (and sad) amount of it is shrouded in mystery. This kind of dumbfounded us, to be honest, since we’re a town so well-documented with the Chippewa Valley Museum, two universities, historical societies, and libraries. We even asked some of the elderly population about it. But, alas, for some we were left to speculate based on facts found in old city directories. Many of the places changed names back to bars or taverns following the end of prohibition, which may indicate their status as a speakeasy previous to that time. The fact remains that the majority of the history remains uncovered, but we’re dedicated to sitting down at area bars with the oldest patrons we can find. All for history’s sake. We promise. SUBMITTED BY CHIPPEWA VALLEY MUSEUM
The building in which the Wigwam Tavern resides was built in 1883 as Nehers Drug Store, and was renamed Quality Drug Store in 1910. In 1913, it was The Home Bakery, before it was purchased by L.E. Phillips and turned into a tobacco distributor. Its first listing as a tavern was in a 1935 directory, where it was called Ray’s Tavern. (No word on whether or not they served roast beef sandwiches on napkis.) In 1939, the building was purchased by Jake Geisert, who renamed it the Wigwam. When Jake died, the business was taken over by his son, George, who ran it for 40 years, before it was purchased by its current owners, Dave and Erica Ottosen. According to stories, George’s grandparents may have been bootleggers during prohibition and, thus, there may have been mob ties to the building’s early history. Additionally, there are stories of bare knuckle boxing and gambling in the basement during the time. Since early city directories list the residence of the first owners on the same street as the tavern itself, it can be speculated that the house and tavern were attached. It is likely, then, that it functioned as a speakeasy during prohibition. According to the current owner, there are still stories that Jake died in the bar and now haunts the basement of the building. To this day, staff members report strange occurrences ...
James Sheeley House
The Pioneer Tavern on Water Street was established in 1984, yet the building in which it resides has been around since the late 1800s. The building burned in April 1882 in a fire that destroyed most of the westside business district. It was replaced with the building now holding the Pioneer, and before that a furniture, store, drugstore, and Hansen beverages. Also, the trim of the building was repainted one day for a national Chevrolet commercial and repainted a couple of days later back to the way it was before Chevy came to town.
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The Sheeley House has also been around for over a century, with its roots tracing back to the Civil War. The site originated as a boarding house for loggers and railroaders in the nineteenth century. In 1868, blacksmith Carl Hering purchased the property for his personal shop and then John B. Paul, who ran a boarding house located near the buildings, purchased the Hering property in 1884, and expanded it to include a boarding house and saloon. In 1905, James Sheeley, an Irish immigrant, stayed at the Paul house while working on the railroad that ran from Wabasha, Minnesota to Chippewa
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Historic Taverns SUBMITTED BY CHIPPEWA VALLEY MUSEUM
That is until 1993, when Solberg went on tour and left it to another musician, Leigh Carey, to take over. Carey sunk a lot into renovations, but in 1995 sold it to Wayne Marek, currently the director of the Eau Claire Children’s Theatre. Marke named it The Trading Company, and made it a dance club that catered to Eau Claire’s gay population. In 1997, Chuck Wilke took over, called it the Cornerstone, and tried live music again. He would soon change back to a gay bar, called CJ’s Great Escape, before selling it to his landlord, Fred Kappus, in 2001. But the four partners involved had disputes, and Kappus sold his shares to Joseph LaPoint and Steve and Lorrie Anderson. During this time the Stones Throw experienced another upsurge, until being sold to Ryan O’Connor and his mother, Sue, in 2005. A little over a year later, Jon Marlier and Andrew Pernsteiner took over operation for about three years, until rent became too much. It has been closed since 2009, during which time landlord John Mogensen has renovated the inside and opened up once in a while to keep the liquor license active. He’s still seeking interest for someone to take over, but if they don’t he has said he will open it and run it himself.
The bar at Third and Vine has been known as The Last Chance (now Big Ts) since 1949, but before that the site was Walter Spies Beverages and Don Quam’s barbershop.
Falls. In 1905, Sheeley and his wife, Kate, purchased the property. Sheeley and his family ran the saloon and restaurant until his death in 1913, when Kate took sole ownership of the business. The saloon closed in 1967 and the building underwent renovations in the 1980s at the hands of David and Sharon Raihle, who used old photographs of the building as reference to make the interior and exterior revisit their former glory. In 2001, Jim Bloms bought the building and tried to do touch-ups (paint, stain) when he first encountered “the unexplained.” Now paranormal groups use the site every October for haunted tours and presentations.
Court’N House
The Court’n House started off as Oberg & Schlieve Hardware Store from 19081920, and in the decade that followed it went through several business changes.
The building has housed John Goulette Beverages, Delicious Foods, Drake-Rea Company Autos, and Food Products Company throughout the years. It was also Bill Mooney’s Bar and Grill from 1950-1974 before it became the Court’n House of today.
Stones Throw
Started by stained glass rtist Frank Stone in 1979, the Stones Throw was a French restaurant with a large main room, upper level balcony, and a kitchen and dining room on the lower level. In 1981, Stone turned to blues musician James Solberg to run music. By 1984, however, Stone was forced to turn the building over to the bank, where Fred Kappus was hired to manage the property. A few years later, Kappus and a partner bought it. In 1986, Solberg took over Stone’s Throw’s lease and began what some have called its “heyday” (lots of big-name music acts).
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The Amber Inn was originally built by Walter Brewing Co. so they had a place to sell their products. It became the Amber Inn in 1982, but this photo is circa 1900.
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LEAH DUNBAR
Meat Raffles a first-person investigation of these mysterious cultural affairs By Sarah Dobs “Come and get your meat!” It’s probably not what you’re thinking. Actually, it’s not at all what you’re thinking. Unless what you’re thinking of is a meat raffle. The phenomena of the meat raffle is sweeping across the state with ever-increasing intensity – via local taverns, pubs, bars, and supper clubs. Patrons pony up one dollar, and they stand to win a slab of the best meat in town … but only if they’re lucky. Before beginning my quest to uncover the mystery that is “meat raffles,” I decided to ask around UW-Eau Claire. A college campus loaded with academic brainiacs who also happen to be deer hunting northerners simply must know about these cultural affairs, right? If you answered anything other than “wrong,” then you are, well, wrong. “A what?” was the most frequent response. And the occasional, “Oh, is that where you go to win a hottie for the day?” apparently confused with bachelor/bach-
Supper Club in Menomonie, greedily snatching up raffle tickets at a buck apiece. Only 30 tickets a round were sold, and in this crowd of meat-hungry gamblers, if you snooze, you would most definitely lose. As I waved my crinkled dollar bill in the air, I felt the excitement of what was about to happen. There was a slight tingle running down my arm and it reverberated through the rest of my body. Maybe it was my ancient, ingrained hunter instincts kicking in after a long period of sub-conscious dor- Meaty booty at Jake’s Supper Club in Menomonie – Meat mancy. Or maybe I was hungry, raffle prizes are kept on ice so they don’t spoil the fun. and the thought of a nice, thick ribeye had become a thrilling meat – a frozen pack of protein. Wow, I prospect. Or maybe I had been holding up thought, so this is a meat raffle. Now I get my arm for too long. We may never truly it. The appeal. The glory. The simplicity. know. Where’s my wallet? I’m sure I have another But I was there, the drawing was about dollar in there, somewhere. And this one
Wow, I thought. So this is a Meat Raffle. I understand it, now. The appeal. The glory. The simplicity. ... I got my eye on that T-bone a-comin’ up. elorette auctions. So much for academic braniacs. But I suppose I can’t be too upset with the academic community. After all, I was the clueless one. Eventually I would realize there’s but one way to find out the truth. I must actually attend to a meat raffle. It was a Thursday evening when I found myself sitting within a crowd of middle-aged-and-up meat rafflers at Jake’s
to begin, and I was pretty psyched up. One singular thought raced through my mind as I awaited the announcer to call the first lucky winner: I should have brought more cash. The announcer’s grizzly voice let loose like a professional baseball pitcher, “Ticket holder … 654986,” then followed up with, “Come and get your meat!” The winner came, and they got their
LEAH DUNBAR
Chomping at the bit for a nice chop. Volume One’s Night Out 2011
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better be lucky. I got my eye on that T-bone a-comin’ up. Beyond the thrill of the win, there’s also a sense of camaraderie about the whole thing. Even though I came to this thing alone, I found myself in great company throughout the night. Like a crowd of strangers who just discovered they all back the same football team, and therefore, are lifelong buddies. These meat rafflers were extremely sociable, and unified by one commonality. Meat. Excluding the awkward anxiety I felt whilst first walking through the door, I never once felt fearful of making a meat raffle faux pas. My new aquatints willingly offered their experienced knowledge throughout the night. “Hold your dollar higher in the air so they see it,” one sagely instructed. “Lay all your tickets out in a row so that you can read them easily,” another advised. As the meat raffle came to an end, my beginner’s luck proved fruitless. I couldn’t even win a package of quarter-pound brats (one of the lesser raffle prizes). But, walking to my car, I was not discouraged. The experience actually had me bristling with Wisconsin pride. And that, for me, was the biggest prize of the night.
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Bar Wall Treasure Hunt identify what area establishment each weird decoration belongs to Photos By Katie LeBrun, Leah Dunbar, and Andrea Paulseth 2
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PHOTO HUNT 6
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ANSWERS
1) A stuffed bobcat at The Den. 2) The Chicago Police box at House of Rock. 3) JFK’s stop at Clancy’s. 4) Dollar bills on the ceiling of Court’N House. 5) Taxidermy wonders at My Place. 6) Postcards at The Joynt. 7) Sunken treasures at Sea Horse Inn. 8) Creepy hockey mask at Tailgates. 9) A golden arm at Elbow Room 10) A military dog at Yankee Jack’s 11) Gaelic Storm signed drum at Dooley’s. 12) Ceiling burgers at Mogie’s.
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Bar Listings bowling alleys, dance clubs, music venues, gaming spots, holes-in-the-wall – it’s all here ... Look at all these bars! Because you get dolled up and hit the town with either a specific area or “activity” in mind, we’ve got categories for both. Icons within the listings show places that serve food, have free snacks, happy hour specials, and outdoor patios (icon key found throughout). “Quick Lists” break down places with things like weekly karaoke, league games, and late-night grub. Winners of Volume One’s annual Best of the Chippewa Valley Reader Poll are noted in the descriptions with a red star. If you dig this, feel free to also check out the online counterpart to Night Out at VolumeOne.org. We did our best to lists every drinking hole in the Chippewa Valley, but if we missed one, please let us know. Enjoy!
Happy Hollow Tavern 1628 N Hillcrest Pkwy, Al-
ALTOONA
Draganetti’s Ristorante 3120 Hillcrest Pkwy., Al-
toona • 834-9234 • www.draganettis.com • While the restaurant is known for fine Italian dining, the bar at Drag’s is known for a comfortable, old-school lounge feel marked by low lighting and stools plus expertly mixed cocktails like the famous old-fashioneds. Happy hour is 4 to 6pm, Mon. to Thurs. Outdoor patio, three taps, three specialty beers, party room that holds 40. O H F
Fischer’s on the Green 2333 Hillcrest Pkwy., Al-
toona • 832-9711 • www.fischersgreen.com • This upscale, lounge-like bar will woo you with its leather couches, fireplace, and old-timey cocktails (ever heard of the gimlet?). Homemade snack mix is available at the bar. Come Mon. through Fri. from 4:30 to 6:30pm for half price appetizers. Live music Wed., Fri., and Sat. (Expect to cut a rug). Fischer’s offers 12 specialty beers and four on tap. Two party rooms, outdoor patio. O H F S
400 Club 1411 Spooner Ave., Altoona • 834-6226 •
DOWNTOWN CHIPPEWA Casa Mexicana 324 N. Bridge St, Chippewa Falls •
726-2315 • This is one of three bars that refused to be a part of this completely free community resource that lists them for free. And since there’s very little information available online, we had to glean info from some people who’ve been there. The bar is separate from the family-oriented restaurant, and, not surprisingly, their margaritas are a popular beverage, especially the monday night special. F
Duncan Creek Wine Bar & Grille 213 N. Bridge St., Chippewa Falls • 723-7000 • With a wine list composed of roughly 80 bottles (from France, Spain, Portugal Australia, and more) there’s no question as to how Duncan Creek Wine Bar & Grille got its name. The bar in this bistro-style eatery overlooks Bridge Street and has ten specialty beers on top of the wines, champagnes, sake, and dessert wines. Food served late on weekends, outdoor patio, party room available for 40. O F
Rolly’s Coach Club 2239 Spooner Ave., Altoona • 832-9503 • This is one of three bars that refused to be a part of this completely free community resource that lists them for free. But from what we can gather from their Facebook page, they take pride in cheap beer, their namesake bartender, stiff drinks and even stiffer shots. They also have darts, pool, and is the kind of place where you throw your peanut shells on the floor. F S
Every Buddy’s Bar 19 W. Central St., Chippewa Falls • 861-3838 • everybuddysbar.net • During the day Every Buddy’s is a bar and grill, but they’re just as well known for being a nightlife spot. They have a variety of live music on Fri., DJs on Sat., karaoke on Wed., and poker tournies on Tues. and Thurs. Happy hour happens weekdays 11am to 6pm. They serve food late and have a small smoking patio, a dance floor, a Wii, touch-screen games, and leagues for pool and darts. Ten specialty beers and 12-16 taps. O H F
Whiskey Dicks 943 Harlem Ave., Altoona • 8293425 • www.whiskeydicks.net • Known for three bars under one roof, Whiskey Dicks has it all. Its outdoor patio includes a tiki bar, volleyball court, stage, fire
3347 • Happy-go-lucky people frequent this barwithin-a-bowling alley for deep fried food (served after 10pm), five tap beers (plus tap root beer), and
Falls Bowl 9 W Columbia St, Chippewa Falls • 723-
ANDREA PAULSETH
As your friendly neighborhood bar, 400 Club keeps it simple with one specialty beer (Spotted Cow), four taps, and pizza being the sole item on their menu. Besides the bar, three tables are available for seating. In the back, pool and darts await you - and they’re seldom overtaken. Happy hour specials. Small party room available. H F
toona • 832-2826 • This spacious tavern has a log cabin vibe and boasts the area’s longest bar rail at 96 feet. Sing karaoke three nights a week (Tues., Wed., Thurs.) and let DJ Shawnzilla entertain you on weekends. Happy hour Mon. through Fri. 4 to 7pm. Smoking patio, dance floor, pool, darts, volleyball (leagues for all three), food until 11pm, 23 specialty beers, 11 on tap. Named Best Bar for Indoor Games in 2010 by V1 Readers. O H F Q
pit, beanbags, and ring toss. Inside you’ll find two bars, both serving 34 taps plus 32 imports and 32 microbrews. Their full menu is open until midnight, and a special late-night menu is available to close. They have leagues for darts, pool, volleyball, and bags, plus pool tables. Regular live music, MMA, and poker events, plus gong karaoke on Sundays. Named Best Bar for Outdoor/League Sports and Bar to Hook Up in 2010 by V1 Readers. O H F S Q
Golden Spike Bar & Grill 228 Division St., Altoona
• 552-5526 • This place is like Cheers - it’s an outgoing, kickback bar. Their “happy time” runs weekdays (10am to 6pm) and Sat. 3 to 6pm. Enjoy a free spread of food during Packer games and food served after 10pm. An outdoor patio is opening this spring next to the bean bags and horseshoe pits. Golden Spike offers karaoke every Wed. and Sat. night, and pool, darts, and video games perpetually. Ten tap beers, ten specialty beers. O H F
ICON KEY H = Has recurring happy hour specials. F = Serves food other than frozen pizzas. O = Has an outdoor patio area. = Has free snacks (popcorn, nuts, chips, etc.).
Q = Winner: 2010 V1 Best of the Valley Reader Poll.
Girolamo’s Court ‘n House (113 W. Grand Ave., Eau Claire) is known for its burgers and its karaoke nights – two great tastes that taste great together. Packer fans like it, too.
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racing video games. F
Fill Inn Station 104 W. Columbia St., Chippewa Falls • 723-6551 • www.fillinnstation.com • More of a restaurant with a bar than vice versa, Fill Inn Station is famous for homemade pizzas and curds as well as bloody marys served with fresh shrimp. Happy hour (weekdays 4 to 6pm) serves complimentary hors d’oeuvres. There’s always free popcorn, 11 taps, four specialties, and an outdoor patio. A banquet facility holds 270. O H F S James Sheeley House Restaurant 236 W. River
St., Chippewa Falls • 726-0561 • www.JamesSheeleyHouse.com • This historic restaurant/bar is mostly patronized by conversationalists and blues/jazz lovers (live sets every Thurs., Fri., and Sat.). Seek drink specials at happy hour Mon. through Thurs. 4:30 to 6:30pm (includes free food, from tacos to hot dishes) and test yourself at trivia Wed. nights. They have the “biggest, beautifullest” patio in Chippewa Falls, and their Old-Fashioneds are rumored to be exquisite. Banquet room upstairs. O H F S
LeRoy’s on Spring Street 24 W Spring St, Chippewa Falls • 720-0976 • It is said LeRoy’s on Spring Street has the cheapest beer in town. Choose from five specialty or four tap beers. During happy hour on Wed. from 4pm to close, you can get a bottle for very little. Any other day and depending on the week, happy hour specials will differ. Indoor games include pool and darts, with leagues for both. If you’re hungry late at night, LeRoy’s serves pizza and pretzels after 10pm. Outdoor patio. O H F The Ritz 114 W. River St, Chippewa Falls • 726-8710
• This small bar situated right in downtown Chippewa Falls caters to a low-key, older crowd. Their fenced-in patio is just the place to enjoy a beer (eight on tap and one specialty) with summery yellow umbrellas and white wrought iron furniture. Toss some beanbags, catch some live music on select weekends, and ask for the free snacks - they’ll bring ‘em. Happy hour runs twice a day during the week: 3pm to 6pm and 10pm to 12pm. O H S
The Snout Saloon 13 W. Central St., Chippewa Falls
• 723-4848 • Every Thursday night, Snout Saloon has a popular meat raffle with drink specials. Other specials include weekday happy hours from 4 to 7. There are 10 specialty beers, four taps, and free popcorn. Saturday nights feature live music from blues, rock, and country bands. For games, pool and darts are available (and have leagues) as well as Wii. H S
Tomahawk Room 306 N. Bridge St., Chippewa
Falls • 726-9433 • Situated within a brick building is this classic Chippewa bar with a friendly staff. Stay for a game of pool, a round of darts, or try your hand at the old school foosball table. Though their menu is limited after 10pm, Tomahawk Room serves free pretzels at all times. Happy hour runs 4pm to 6pm Monday through Friday. Pool and dart leagues available. Eight tap beers, five specialty brews. H F S
Town Pump 616 N. Bridge St., Chippewa Falls •
723-8989 • The clientele of this bar skews younger, but everyone can enjoy the Leinenkugel’s memorabilia. Big enough to hold parties for 130 people, Town Pump hosts live music on occasional weekends and designates daily specials. Play pool or darts (leagues available), grab some free snacks, and select from 20 specialty beers and four on tap. Outdoor patio and beanbags when weather permits. O S
The Village Tavern 32 W Spring St., Chippewa
Falls • 723-3009 • A nautical theme gives this bar an extra bit of charm. Try the Village Bomb - a shot of cherry Dr. McGillicuddy’s mixed with orange pop.
LIVE MUSIC VENUES MUSIC AT LEAST ONCE A WEEK Big Jim’s Sports Bar 102 East Lincoln Ave, Fall Creek • 877-1331 • Bands on Sat. nights
Bottle & Barrel 209 Graham Ave., Eau Claire •
832-8844 • www.myspace.com • Live music on weekends. Wednesdays are open mic nights.
The Buck aka Silver Dollar Saloon 315 Main Street, Menomonie • 235-9390 • With live classic or modern rock every Fri. or Sat. night
Every Buddy’s Bar 19 W. Central St., Chip-
pewa Falls • 861-3838 • everybuddysbar.net • They have a variety of live music on Fridays.
Erwin’s 19th Hole 1705 County Highway OO,
OCCASIONAL LIVE MUSIC Ba Da Bingz 414 E Main St., Menomonie • 235-
5100
Barley Club 4324 Fairfax Park Dr., Eau Claire • 831-9224
Broadway Bowl 1501 N Broadway St., Menomonie • 235-2355
Bullfrog’s Eat My Fish Farm N1321 Bullfrog
Rd., Menomonie • 664-8775 • www.eatmyfish. com
Das Bierhaus 120 6th Ave. W, Menomonie • 231-3230 • www.dasbierhaus-wi.com
Chip. Falls • 831-6337 • Sat. night live music
Dean & Sue’s Bar & Grill 2002 Midway Rd.,
Altoona • 832-9711 • www.fischersgreen.com • Live music Wed., Fri., and Sat.
Dewey’s Roadhouse 1 E. Canal St., Chippewa
Fischer’s on the Green 2333 Hillcrest Pkwy., House of Rock 422 Water St., Eau Claire •
Menomonie • 235-9940
Falls • 720-6023 • www.deweysroadhouse.com
Dooley’s Pub 442 Water St, Eau Claire • 834-
838-0158 • www.house-of-rock.com • Regularly hosts local and national acts.
2388
River St., Chippewa Falls • 726-0561 • www. JamesSheeleyHouse.com • Live blues/jazz every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday
Hobbsy & Me 3620 Locust Ln, Eau Claire •
James Sheeley House Restaurant 236 W.
Moose Lodge 3606 Curvue Rd., Eau Claire • 835-6522 • Various live bands every Fri. night.
The Mousetrap 311 S. Barstow St., Eau Claire • 832-8418 • www.myspace.com • Free live music almost every Friday and Saturday. My Place 408 Galloway St, Eau Claire • 8355483 • Live rock/blues bands 2-5 times a month.
O’Leary’s 809 W. Clairemont Ave, Eau Claire
• 834-6611 • www.abvicampusview.com • Live music every Friday and Saturday
Pioneer Grill & Saloon E5699 Cty. Trk. D,
The Fire House 202 Gibson St., Eau Claire • 514-0406 • eauclairefirehouse.com 832-2219
Houligans Steak & Seafood Pub 415 S.
Barstow St., Eau Claire • 835-6621 • www.houligans.net
Idlewild Bar 999 Malden Ave, Eau Claire •
834-2255
Lake Hallie Sportsman’s Club 2910 109th St,
Chippewa Falls • 726-1015
Meet Market 545 S Broadway St, Menomonie • 235-9995
Moke’s Bar and Grill 3077 CTH OO, Chip-
pewa Falls • 720-8950
Playmakers Bar & Grill 101 Graham Ave.,
Menomonie • 235-9927 • www.pioneergrill.com • Live bands (mostly country) play every Saturday night
Eau Claire • 830-8292
Claire • 832-6431 • www.myspace.com • Music every Friday and Saturday night
Shots Bar 2112 Esmond Rd., Eau Claire • 552-
The Red Parrot 1700 S. Hastings Way, Eau Redzone Sports Bar 2071 S. Prairie View Rd.,
Chippewa Falls • 726-3030 • Live rock Fri. and Sat. nights
Sammy’s Pizza Restaurant & Pub 2812 London Rd, Eau Claire • 831-1300 • Live music (often classic rock) most Fridays
Shanghai Bistro 2930 Craig Rd., Eau Claire •
835-3348 • www.shanghaibistro.org • Live jazz on the weekend, and Peter Phippen’s flute stylings on Wednesdays.
Shari’s Chippewa Club 106 W. Main St., Du-
rand • 672-8785 • Open jams every Sunday. They also host live music on some weekends.
The Snout Saloon 13 W. Central St., Chippewa Falls • 723-4848 • Saturday nights feature live music from blues, rock, and country bands. Tailgates Sports Bar & Grill 1505 N. Clairemont Ave., EC • 552-1733 • tailgatessportsbar. com • Live cover bands most Saturdays
The Ritz 114 W. River St, Chippewa Falls • 7268710
2169
Shooters Showgirls N5614 850th St., Elk
Mound • 879-5325
Slim’s Lake Hallie Tavern 1979 County Hwy OO, Chippewa Falls • 832-9303 Stout Ale House 1501 N. Broadway St., Menomonie • 233-3333 • stoutalehouse.com
Town Pump 616 N. Bridge St., Chippewa Falls
• 723-8989
Wagner’s Lanes 2159 Brackett Ave., Eau Claire • 833-6700 • www.bowlcec.com Whispering Pines N12788 S. Prairie Rd., Osseo • www.whisperingpines.com
Yankee Jack’s at Princeton Valley 2300 W. Princeton Ave., Eau Claire • 834-4050 • yankeejacks.com
VFW Post 305 1300 Starr Ave., Eau Claire • 552-8438 • www.vfwclub305.com • Live music most Saturdays
Waterfront Bar & Grill 512 Crescent St., Menomonie • 235-6541 • Live bluegrass or hip hop band most Thursdays and Saturdays
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They have DJ-hosted karaoke Thursday nights, pool, darts, Wii games, and different specials every day of the week. Free food during Packer half times. Three to four specialty beers rotate seasonally and six beers flow from the tap. S
EAST HILL CHIPPEWA Sunbeam Tavern 1310 E Park Ave, Chippewa Falls • 723-4137 • Sunbeam Tavern is known for its games, with indoor options like pool and darts, and outdoor options like bean bags, volleyball, and horseshoes – many of which have leagues. Happy hours are Monday to Thursday, 6-11am and 3-5:30pm. Yes, they are open at 6am. They serve food past 10, have eight specialties and three taps, have free popcorn and chips, and reserve Fridays for karaoke. O H F S Tip Top 310 Allen St., Chippewa Falls • Fun and laid
back, Tip Top mostly plays host to a crowd of regulars at their U-shaped bar. They’ll pour you a Mick Kicker if you can handle it (I’m told it’s almost pure booze), but they also carry four to five specialty beers and four beers on tap. Pool and darts are available, as well as leagues for both. Happy hour is from 11am-6pm Mon. through Fri. H
NORTHSIDE CHIPPEWA Glen Loch Saloon 1300 Jefferson Ave., Chippewa
Falls • 723-1297 • With a jukebox that has “ADD,” this great local dive bar has an apple pie shot to die for. Come see what’s shakin’ on the dance floor, or play some pool, darts, or touch-screen games. They offer six specialty beers, three on tap, and free popcorn/peanuts. Happy hour runs 3pm to 6pm weekdays, and hungry people can always eat after 10pm. H F S
Riverside Café 1117 Pumphouse Rd., Chippewa Falls • 726-1199 • www.vallysrestaurant.com • Located at Timber Terrace Golf Course and previously known as Vally’s, this place is known as the spot to grab a drink and food after a round of golf. With an outdoor patio and a beautiful view overlooking the river, they also have a downstairs establishment with a 60-person party room and bar set-up with some free snacks. O F S
SOUTHSIDE CHIPPEWA 1st and Goal Saloon 29 E Park Ave., Chippewa
Falls • 723-7822 • A place for all types of people to gather, 1st and Goal has a modest-sized dance floor, happy hour specials 7-10am and 3-6pm, one specialty beer, occasional free snacks, and four tap beers. Their dart and pool leagues tend to attract a younger crowd. Four big screen TVs show all the relevant football
games. H S
Bridgewater Restaurant & Pub 1009 W. Park Ave.,
Chippewa Falls • 723-6941 • www.avalonhotelchippewafalls.com • Enclosed within the big squareshaped bar at Bridgewater are 21 beers on tap and 13 specialties. The happy hour taps deal runs 3 to 6pm and is practically famous. Plug the jukebox and use the dance floor, or lob some darts and nab some free popcorn. Catch one of the weekend live music gigs. Karaoke Fridays in winter. Party room. H F S
Burly’s 19 E Canal St, Chippewa Falls • 720-9148 • This recently-remodeled sports bar has a smoking deck, pool table(s), darts (with leagues for both), and happy hour specials Mon. through Thurs. from 3 to 6pm. Fifteen different specialty beers are available, though none are on tap. O H Cancun Mexican Grill 475 Chippewa Mall Dr., Chippewa Falls • 723-7007 • www.cancungrills.com • This family-owned, sit-down Mexican restaurant and bar is known for their loud, happy atmosphere. Order a margaritas in strawberry, raspberry, mango, peach, banana, tamarindo, or regular - happy hour runs all day Mon. and Tues. If you’re a beer drinker, they have two specialty choices and six on tap. Party room available. H F The Dam Bar Under The Bridge 353 E Canal St, Chippewa Falls • 723-9959 • At this “friendly little town bar,” you’ll be intrigued to see what the bar itself is made out of - it’s surface contains actual seashells and coins! Plug the jukebox or check out their shuffleboard, pool and dart leagues (and play for fun, too), as well as their Monday through Friday happy hour (3pm to 7pm). About 17 specialty beers and four on tap. H Dewey’s Roadhouse 1 E. Canal St., Chippewa Falls
• 720-6023 • www.deweysroadhouse.com • Dewey’s is all about variety, whether it’s music and clientele or things to do and what to drink. They have a massive patio with tables and a firepit, all overlooking the river. “It has a real old, French canal street feel to it,” says Dewey. They have dance parties and DJs most weekends, live music occasionally, and 26 specialty beers. Their late-night happy hours are all but Saturdays, from about 9 to 11. For games, they have pool, darts, arcade, and touch-screens indoors, with outdoors having bags and volleyball, both of which have leagues. O H
Lake Hallie Golf Course 2196 110th St, Chippewa Falls • 861-5442 • www.lakehalliegolf.com • A horseshoe bar is within a window-lined room so you can gaze at the greens. Or watch the game on four flatscreen TVs while munching on free snacks. With an open, casual atmosphere, Lake Hallie Golf Course serves food and has pool, darts, and golf (of course), plus leagues in all three activities. Outdoor pavilion and indoor party room available. Fifteen specialty
from the Nightlife Guide at:
The Grand Illusion
“
418 Water St., Eau Claire • 835-7797
review by Snaxxx
When you first walk in, with the dim lights and warm temperature, it seems like the kind of place mushrooms would hang out. But whether it’s the intimate booths, chill music, or stiff drinks, eventually the place grows on you and becomes a solid choice among friends for relaxing conversation, nudie photo hunt, and a Delusion or two.
”
Write your own nightlife reviews of more than 200 bars & taverns at www.VolumeOne.org Volume One’s Night Out 2011
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beers, seven on tap. Wednesday nights are for karaoke. O F S
Lake Hallie Sportsman’s Club 2910 109th St, Chip-
pewa Falls • 726-1015 • Offering live music in the summertime as well as horseshoes on Monday nights, this bar often hosts different “feeds” (steak, corn, etc) as well as events like their ice fishing contest and Easter egg hunt. Check out their outdoor patio, weekday happy hour 4:30 to 6:30pm, free food on Packer game days, pool table, and horseshoe leagues. Four beers on tap and seven specialty beers available. O H S
Moke’s Grill & Bar 3077 CTH OO, Chippewa Falls
• 720-8950 • With a beautiful outdoor patio/tiki bar, Moke’s is the perfect place to grab spectacular pizza (served late) and a drink. If you’re the active type, Moke’s has darts, hammerschlagen, beer pong, and bean bags. Karaoke is held on Thurs., and there’s occasional live music in summer, with dancing despite no dance floor. Happy hour is 3 to 6pm Mon. through Thurs. and 2 to 5pm on Fri with four specialty beers and six taps. Named Best Neighborhood Bar and Bar for Drinking in 2010 by V1 Readers. O H F Q
Ralph’s Red Apple Grill & Bar 465 Chippewa Mall
Dr., Chippewa Falls • 861-5600 • www.ralphsredapplegrill.com • This new addition to Eau Claire’s bar and grill scene serves up a few specialties: sangrias to order (made with either red or white wine) and sake bloody marys. The clean bar area has a sportsy vibe and is attached to an outdoor tiki bar. They are open until 11pm and serve six specialty beers, a dozen taps, and several local wines. O F
Sweeney’s Bar & Grill 201 E. Canal St., Chip-
pewa Falls • 723-9905 • Every Saturday in winter enjoy a DJ or karaoke at this sit-down bar and grill.
(The crowd tends to skew a bit younger when these activities commence). Expect to find free peanuts, pool, darts (plus leagues). Happy hour runs Monday through Thursday 3pm to 6pm. The full menu is served until midnight. Try sixteen specialty beers as well as six on tap. H F S
WEST HILL CHIPPEWA Eisold’s Irvine Bar 130 Fleet St., Chippewa Falls •
The West Hill Bar 250 W. Elm St., Chippewa Falls
• 720-9281 • This is a cozy, clean neighborhood bar, decked out with mirrors on the wall. You’ll be pleased to find a dart board, four specialty beers, and four on tap. Their happy hour runs Mon.-Thurs. from 4-6pm, and their excellent hot beefs are served before and after 10pm. O H F
OUTSKIRTS CHIPPEWA
720-1280 • A local hangout complete with jukebox, a few TVs, and beer signage. DJs and/or karaoke reigns on Fri. and Sat. in the dance area. Enjoy the outdoor patio in the summer and happy hour Mon. through Thurs. 3 to 6pm. Food may be served after 10pm. Exercise your pool shark skills, dart accuracy (both have leagues available), and fast fingers for touch screen games. Six beers on tap, 10 specialties. O H F
Brown Hut 2525 N 110th Ave, Chippewa Falls • A no-hassle bar without the fanfare. Come for the horseshoe pits and the volleyball alongside an outdoor patio. Or, if weather doesn’t permit, hang out inside and play Wii bowling or pool. Happy hour is 4 to 6pm, and two tap beers are available. Serves food after 10pm. O H F
River Inn Bar 10418 County Highway X, Chippewa
• In this remodeled restaurant/bar combo, there’s homemade pizza galore and coziness emanating from the fireplace. Absorb live music every other weekend and scoot around on the makeshift dance floor. Sit at the tiki bar or play some bean bags or volleyball. Indoors, play some pool, darts, touch-screen games, or virtual golf. Free popcorn/pretzels, six tap beers, 10 specialty beers, happy hour weekdays 4 to 6pm. O H F S
Falls • 723-9481 • With four beers on tap plus root beer, this country-style bar also designates two full days of the week as “happy” (Tuesdays and Sundays). Enjoy free popcorn and peanuts, about 17 specialty beers, and the occasional DJ dance party. Their music of choice is usually country. They also have darts and video poker, plus the ever-popular wing nights. F S
Wander Inn 6020 County Highway X, Chippewa
Falls • 874-5590 • Their sign says “the coldest beer in Chippewa County.” Whether it’s true or not is up to you to decide. Choose from four beers on tap, and chill on the outdoor patio when the weather is agreeable. The accompanying music is usually country. Happy hour is Monday through Friday from 4 to 6pm. Pool and dart leagues offered. O H F
Idlewild Bar 999 Malden Ave, Eau Claire • 834-2255
Loopy’s Saloon & Grill 10691 Buisness 29, Chip-
pewa Falls • 723-5667 • 723loop.com • Loopy’s isn’t a bar; it’s a complex. With volleyball and bean bag leagues overlooking the river (along with a tiki bar and fire pit), Loopy’s also created a dome for indoor leagues. They have tube, kayak, and canoe rentals, pool and dart leagues, plus touch-screen and arcade
WEEKLY KARAOKE HOT SPOTS PLACES WITH KARAOKE AT LEAST ONCE A WEEK Barley Club 4324 Fairfax Park Dr., Eau Claire • 8319224 • Thursdays
Bridgewater Restaurant & Pub 1009 W. Park Ave.,
Chippewa Falls • 723-6941 • www.avalonhotelchippewafalls.com • Fridays in winter.
Bull Pen Sports Bar 1522 Bellinger St, Eau Claire • 839-9954 • www.bullpensportsbar.com • Tuesdays
Eisold’s Irvine Bar 130 Fleet St., Chippewa Falls • 720-1280 • Fridays and/or Saturdays Erwin’s 19th Hole 1705 County Highway OO, Chip-
Lake Hallie Golf Course 2196 110th St, Chippewa Falls • 861-5442 • www.lakehalliegolf.com • Wednesdays
Lakeside Lounge 614 Main St., Menomonie • 2354307 • Wednesdays
Log Jam 709 S. Broadway St., Menomonie • 2350703 • www.menomonielogjam.com • Wednesdays
Loopy’s Saloon & Grill 10691 Buisness 29, Chippewa Falls • 723-5667 • 723loop.com • Weekends
Moke’s Grill & Bar 3077 CTH OO, Chippewa Falls
pewa Falls • 831-6337 • Thursdays
• 720-8950 • Thursdays
Falls • 861-3838 • everybuddysbar.net • Wednesdays
834-6611 • www.abvicampusview.com • Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays
Every Buddy’s Bar 19 W. Central St., Chippewa Five O’Clock Club 2240 Fenwick Ave, Eau Claire •
O’Leary’s 809 W. Clairemont Ave, Eau Claire •
834-1748 • Sundays, Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays
Claire • 830-8292 • Wednesdays
835-6489 • www.foxruntavern.com • Tuesdays and Saturdays
917-1020 • www.elkmoundpourhouse.com • Fridays
Fox Run Tavern 1515 S. 65th Ave., Eau Claire •
Girolamo’s Court N House 113 W. Grand Ave., Eau Claire • 832-5478 • Thursdays
Golden Spike Bar & Grill 228 Division St., Altoona • 552-5526 • Wednesdays and Saturdays
Hallie Bar & Grill 1713 Hwy OO, Chippewa Falls • 715-861-3870 • Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays
Happy Hollow Tavern 1628 N Hillcrest Pkwy, Altoona • 832-2826 • Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays
Playmakers Bar & Grill 101 Graham Ave., Eau
Slim’s Lake Hallie Tavern 1979 County Hwy OO,
Chippewa Falls • 832-9303 • Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays
The Sports Page Bar 131 N Barstow St, Eau Claire
• 832-7798 •
Sunbeam Tavern 1310 E Park Ave, Chippewa Falls • 723-4137 • Fridays Sweeney’s Bar & Grill 201 E. Canal St., Chippewa Falls • 723-9905 • Saturdays in winter
Tailgates Sports Bar & Grill 1505 N. Clairemont Ave., Eau Claire • 552-1733 • tailgatessportsbar.com • Thursdays
TGI Fridays 4800 Golf Rd, Eau Claire • 830-1424 • www.fridayseauclaire.com • Wednesdays
Two Waters Bar 2940 109th St, Chippewa Falls • 726-1810 • Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays
The Pourhouse W301 Menomonie St., Elk mound •
VFW Post 305 1300 Starr Ave., Eau Claire • 552-
Scooters 411 Galloway St., Eau Claire • 835-9959 •
The Village Tavern 32 W Spring St., Chippewa Falls
Sea Horse Inn 2106 N Clairemont Ave., Eau Claire •
Whiskey Dicks 943 Harlem Ave., Altoona • 829-
www.scooters-bar.com • Thursdays and Sundays
834-4356 • Fridays and Saturdays
She-Nannigans & Lucky’s 415 Water St, Eau Claire • 836-8333 • Tuesdays
Sherwood Inn 400 S. 130th Ave, Fall Creek • Shots Bar 2112 Esmond Rd., Eau Claire • 552-2169
• Thursdays
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8438 • www.vfwclub305.com • Fridays • 723-3009 • Thursdays
3425 • www.whiskeydicks.net • Sundays
Whispering Pines N12788 S. Prairie Rd., Osseo • www.whisperingpines.com •
Wigwam Tavern 314 E. Madison St., Eau Claire •
834-9061 • www.wigwamtavern.com • Fridays
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ALLISON LOUKS
up a seat at a high table, a booth, the patio, or right up at the bar, you’ll know Galloway Grille for its historic downtown decor and pub fare menu. Of course, it doesn’t hurt to have 16 taps and about a dozen specialty beers on hand. Happy hour is Mon. through Fri. 2 to 5pm, and a party room can hold up to 30 people. O H F
Girolamo’s Court N House 113 W. Grand Ave., Eau Claire • 832-5478 • This long-time bar hotspot has as much range in clientele as it does in identity. Most nights it’s a casual talking spot, on Thurs. it’s overtaken by burger and karaoke madness, and on Sun. it’s all about the Packers. Locals and students alike flock for the late-night food, happy hour (Mon. to Thurs., 4 to 7pm), free popcorn/nuts, 10 taps, 20 specialties, pool, darts, arcade/touch-screens games, and an array of board games. H F S Hilltop Tavern 924 E Madison St, Eau Claire • 835-
Beneath its pressed tin ceiling, Mogie’s Pub and Restaurant (436 Water St., Eau Claire) offers 19 beers on tap for your thirst-quenching pleasure, and plenty of pool downstairs. games. People hit the dance floor and karaoke mics on weekends. Happy hour is weekdays 3 to 6pm with 12 taps and six specialties. Food on game days, party room for 200. Named Best Bar for Outdoor Sports in 2010 by V1 Readers. O H F Q
DURAND Shari’s Chippewa Club 106 W. Main St., Durand •
672-8785 • This informal music-minded bar has open jams every Sunday from 6-10pm. They also host live music on some weekends. Serving up specialty pizzas and sandwiches before and after 10pm, they also have pool (leagues available), video games, ping pong, and foosball. Party room, outdoor patio, dance floor, 20 specialty beers, no tap beers. Happy hour is Mon. through Fri. 4-6pm. O H F
DOWNTOWN EAU CLAIRE Amber Inn 840 E. Madison St., Eau Claire • 832-
0568 • One of Eau Claire’s original bars, Amber Inn was established in 1881 and has the antique decor to prove it. Enjoy happy hour specials, food after 10pm, darts, 11 specialty beers, nine taps, free peanuts, and a video game room. You’ll rub elbows with a wellrounded mix of people at this booth-laden bar. H F S
Bottle & Barrel 209 Graham Ave., Eau Claire • 8328844 • www.myspace.com • Joined together with Pizza Plus, Bottle & Barrel is a late-night hotspot with food until 1am and carry-out alcohol orders until midnight. Stick around for daily happy hour specials, pool and darts (both have leagues), video poker, pinball, and live music on weekends. Wednesdays are open mic nights. Five tap beers and a party room for rent. H F Bull Pen Sports Bar 1522 Bellinger St, Eau Claire • 839-9954 • www.bullpensportsbar.com • If you’re into fantasy NASCAR leagues or cutthroat Texas Hold ‘Em (every Tues.), this is your drinkin’ headquarters. Choose from 10 specialty beers and five taps, munch on peanuts/popcorn, and enjoy pub fare past 10pm. A younger crowd appears at night. Try Wii bowling and weekly karaoke on Tuesdays. Happy hour 3-6pm, outdoor patio. O H F S
Clancy’s 414 S Barstow St, Eau Claire • 832-5481
• On the surface Clancy’s is an Irish bar with parrot decor, but that hardly explains the appeal. Clancy’s is a chill bar with a clientele from 20s to 40s, mixed drinks served in jars, and one of the best jukeboxes around. Happy hour specials run 4-7pm every day, plus nightly specials later on. They have pool, a dart board, a few retro video games, and a touch-screen game. There’s free popcorn, 15-20 specialty beers, and eight taps. H S
9223 • A popular spot on game days and known for their dart leagues, this sports bar has drink deals and free snacks for happy hour (weekdays 4 to 7pm) . They serve food late, have an outdoor patio, and hold karaoke once a month. They have touch-screen and Wii games, plus bean bags in summer (for which they also have leagues). They have four taps and a couple of specialty beers. O H F
Houligans Steak & Seafood Pub 415 S. Barstow St., Eau Claire • 835-6621 • www.houligans.net • Other than the intimate dining atmosphere, Houligan’s is best known for its specialty beer selection there are 22 choices, and 17 total taps. The wine list is also nothing to sneeze at. Get drink deals from 4 to 7pm on weekdays and experience live music roughly once a month (check out house band The Shillelagh Lads). Free pub pretzels, food after 10pm, outdoor patio, party room holds 100 for cocktails and 70 for
Loopy’s isn’t a bar; it’s a complex. With volleyball and bean bag leagues overlooking the river (along with a tiki bar and fire pit), Loopy’s also created a dome for its indoor leagues. Loopy’s Saloon & Grill, outskirts Chippewa The Depot 222 E Madison St, Eau Claire • 834-9061 • www.wigwamtavern.com • Owned and run through the Wigwam Tavern just down the street, The Depot is a summertime favorite open only during volleyball games (Sunday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday). While the leagues roll on, free bean bags are available at this outdoor patio venue with simple bar food items and a stacked bar. Sit inside the small bar, at the outdoor tiki-type version, or at one of the tables. O F Elbow Room 679 Wisconsin St, Eau Claire • 8351008 • Come plug the old-fashioned jukebox and cozy up to a beer on tap. Elbow Room has five taps, serves pizza, and is outfitted with a pool table (leagues available) and dart boards. Packer paraphernalia abounds, as does elbow room. The Fire House 202 Gibson St., Eau Claire • 514-
0406 • eauclairefirehouse.com • Named for its firefighting theme, the high-ceilinged Fire House is famous for its formidable beer selection and chill atmosphere. They have 28 taps and 50ish specialty beers, plus an everyday happy hour from 4 to 7pm. They have darts, foosball, hockey, arcade, and touchscreen games, and free popcorn/nuts. Live music once a month. H S
Galloway Grille 409 Galloway St., Eau Claire • 514-
0751 • www.gallowaygrille.com • Whether you pull
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dining. O H F S
The Livery aka Cowtown Saloon 316 Wisconsin St,
Eau Claire • 833-7666 • www.facebook.com • Known for its mojitos and nightly bonfires, The Livery has a vintage country-meets modern urban aesthetic. Aside from its unique atmosphere, the bar offers regular happy hour specials and a wide range of beers, including 12 taps, five of which are microbrews/imports. There’s a large outdoor patio where a bonfire is started every night at dusk, and an in-house arcade with pool, darts, and arcade and touch-screen games. Ten gallon hats not required, but strongly encouraged. Named Best Bar for Talking and Indoor Games in 2010 by V1 Readers. O H F Q
The Mousetrap 311 S. Barstow St., Eau Claire • 832-8418 • www.myspace.com • Known for its free live music almost every weekend, pool and dart
ICON KEY H = Has recurring happy hour specials. F = Serves food other than frozen pizzas. O = Has an outdoor patio area. = Has free snacks (popcorn, nuts, chips, etc.).
Q = Winner: 2010 V1 Best of the Valley Reader Poll.
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Volume One’s
online bar guide presents ...
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leagues, and constant happy hour and game specials, The Mousetrap is a favorite downtown hangout. The classic tavern has a mixed atmosphere with people in back playing pool, darts, Wii, or foosball, others at the bar watching the game, some more in the live music nook enjoying the tunes, and a few outside on the back patio. They have nine taps, and roughly 20 specialty beers. Named Best Bar for Drinking in 2010 by V1 Readers. O H S Q
My Place 408 Galloway St, Eau Claire • 835-5483 • My Place is about one thing - cheap drinks, pure and simple. The place has been a tavern for more than a century. Dealing exclusively with cans and bottles of beer (including 10 specialties and shorties), My Place also has live rock and blues bands two to five times a month. The intimate room is filled with hunting decor, with an adjacent pool hall. Pizzas, snacks on gamedays, arcade games, and leagues for pool and darts. S Playmakers Bar & Grill 101 Graham Ave., Eau
Claire • 830-8292 • With three levels of seating, each with several large-screen TVs, plus loads of gameday specials, this is the place to go for UFC, NASCAR, and football games. They have nightly deals and a happy hour 4 to 6 every day. Food available until midnight every day but Sunday, karaoke on Wednesdays, and either DJs of live music on weekends. Pool and dart leagues available. 10 taps and 14 specialty beers. H F
Porter’s 205 S. Barstow St, in the Ramada, Eau Claire • 855-0856 • www.portersec.com • A big dark cherry wood bar graces a room that also contains five raised booths and four high top tables. Their selection of vodka is jaw-dropping, with 30 different kinds to suit a sophisticated palate. Take a seat at the outdoor patio and capitalize on their happy hour, 5pm to 7pm every day. Darts are available, as well as the Clearwater party room. Fifteen specialty beers, 12 beers on tap. The bar may close at 10pm or later. O H F The Red Room 302 E Madison St, Eau Claire • 8550000 • Besides the monochromatic decor, The Red Room is known for being a thin and deep tavern with a long bar with large TVs, a great game room with pool, darts, foosball, and retro arcade games, and a top-notch outdoor patio with a beer pong table. They have six taps and about 30 specialty beers, free popcorn, a happy hour from 3-5pm every day, and an enlarged menu of appetizers and sandwiches. O H F S Scooters 411 Galloway St., Eau Claire • 835-9959
• www.scooters-bar.com • Scooters is our premier spot for LGBTQ nightlife, and among the best dance clubs, too. They have live DJs every Fri. and Sat., karaoke every Thurs. and Sun., plus regular drag shows. There are happy hour specials 3 to 9pm every day, and nightly specials afterward. There’s pool, darts, touchscreen games, free popcorn, 15 specialty beers, and eight taps. It’s a good spot for Packer games, with eight TVs, free food, and specials. Named Best Place for Dancing and Bar to Hook Up in 2010 by V1 Readers. O H S Q
The Sports Page Bar 131 N Barstow St, Eau Claire • 832-7798 • As if the name wasn’t enough of an indicator, The Sports Page is all about sports. From the decor and fantasy leagues to the gameday specials and game options. There’s darts, video shuffleboard, and touch-screens inside, plus bean bags on the beer garden (they have leagues for bags and shuffle). There’s four taps and about 20 specialty beers, plus frozen pizzas, weekly karaoke, daily specials, and snacks most days around 5 or 6. O S Stella Blues 306 Madison St., Eau Claire • 855-7777 • www.stellablues.biz • Stella Blues lineup of imbib-
Volume One’s Night Out 2011
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ables is impressive, to say the least. There’s 21 taps and roughly 30 specialty beers, many of which rotate frequently. There’s a monstrous martini and specialty drink list. Plus decent wine options and the amazing cajun menu. Happy hour is 4-6 every day. They have an outdoor patio and a great party room with full bar that holds about 190. Named Best Beverage Selection in 2010 by V1 Readers. O H F Q
Wigwam Tavern 314 E. Madison St., Eau Claire •
834-9061 • www.wigwamtavern.com • This bar and grill is known for its food and regular entertainment/ recreation events. The have a popular karaoke night on Fridays and original trivia on Thursdays, plus summer volleyball leagues (at The Depot), dart boards, gambling machines, and a pool table. Their small outdoor patio has two picnic tables. They have a half dozen tap beer options and about as many specialties. Named Best Karaoke Spot and Bar for Outdoor/League Sports in 2010 by V1 Readers. O F Q
EASTSIDE EAU CLAIRE Cancun Mexican Grill 2120 Highland Ave., Eau
Claire • 552-8011 • www.cancungrills.com • This family-owned, sit-down Mexican restaurant and bar is known for their loud, happy atmosphere. Order a margaritas in strawberry, raspberry, mango, peach, banana, tamarindo, or regular - happy hour runs all day Mon. and Tues. If you’re a beer drinker, they have two specialty choices and six on tap. Party room available. H F
Five O’Clock Club 2240 Fenwick Ave, Eau Claire •
834-1748 • When the bell rings at the Five O’Clock and you’ve got a drink, your next drink will be free. Such is the reason for the moniker of this small tavern off Hastings Way. They’re best known for top-shelf karaoke (all but Thurs. night) and Packer games with free food and drink (if they score). They have six taps, two specialty beers, touch-screen games, and a big outdoor patio. Named Best Karaoke Spot in 2010 by V1 Readers. O H Q
Milwaukee Burger Co. 2620 E Clairemont Ave., Eau Claire • 834-6503 • Milwaukee Burger is a beef handpatting, fresh fry-cutting, sauce-creating kind of place (with really good cheese curds). They have happy hour specials every day and carry 30 specialty beers and eight on tap. Popcorn is free to munch on, plus darts and Pac-man are available. Fridays and Saturdays they serve food after 10pm. H F S Shots Bar 2112 Esmond Rd., Eau Claire • 552-2169 • Best known for its popular happy hour specials (weekdays 4-7) and game day promotions, this sports bar also has karaoke on Thursdays, occasional live music, and late-night bar fare. They have darts, arcade games, and pool (for which there’s also leagues), plus bean bags in summer. There’s free popcorn, six taps, three specialty beers, and a patio. O H F S Wagner’s Lanes 2159 Brackett Ave., Eau Claire •
833-6700 • www.bowlcec.com • There’s no question Wagner’s is known as a bowling alley, but with a fullon arcade, outdoor deck, leagues a-plenty, and everyday specials, locals know there’s much more to offer. In summer the patio hosts volleyball and bean bag leagues (as well as open play opportunities), while indoors there’s darts and bowling leagues on top of the pool, foosball, pinball, touch-screen, and arcade games. There’s occasional live music and karaoke, happy hour specials from 3-6 on weekdays, nightly food and drink specials, free popcorn, plus 10 taps and eight specialty beers. O H F S
LATE-NIGHT MUNCHIES PLACES THAT SERVE FOOD PAST 10PM
(On weekends at the very least.)
400 Club 1411 Spooner Ave., Altoona • 834-6226 • Amber Inn 840 E. Madison St., EC • 832-0568 Applebee’s 2303 Hwy 25 N, Menomonie • 233-
Mogie’s Pub 436 Water St., Eau Claire • 836-9666 • www.mogiespub.com
Aqua Lounge 5051 Fairview Dr., Eau Claire •
Northwoods Brewpub 3560 Oakwood Mall Dr, EC • (715) 552-0510 •northwoodsbrewpub.com
3036 // 4745 Golf Rd., Eau Claire • 831-1255
(888) 861-6001 • www.metropolisresort.com
Moke’s Grill & Bar 3077 CTH OO, Chippewa
Falls • 720-8950
Ba Da Bingz 414 E Main St., Menomonie • 235-
Olive Garden 4920 Golf Rd, Eau Claire • 838-
Big Jim’s Sports Bar 102 East Lincoln Ave, Fall
Pioneer Grill & Saloon E5699 Cty. Trk. D,
Bonnie’s Labor Temple 2233 Birch St, Eau Claire
Playmakers Bar & Grill 101 Graham Ave., Eau
Bottle & Barrel 209 Graham Ave., Eau Claire •
The Pourhouse W301 Menomonie St., Elk mound
Broadway Bowl 1501 N Broadway St., Menomonie
Ray’s Place 838 Water St., Eau Claire • 832-3991 The Red Parrot 1700 S. Hastings Way, Eau Claire
5100
Creek • 877-1331 • (715) 832-6227 832-8844
• 235-2355
Brown Hut 2525 N 110th Ave, Chippewa Falls Buffalo Wild Wings 4612 Keystone Crossing, Eau
Claire • 858-9453 • www.buffalowildwings.com
Bull Pen Sports Bar 1522 Bellinger St, Eau Claire • 839-9954 • www.bullpensportsbar.com
0707 • www.olivegarden.com
Menomonie • 235-9927 • www.pioneergrill.com Claire • 830-8292
• 917-1020 • www.elkmoundpourhouse.com • 832-6431
Red Robin 3005 Golf Rd., Eau Claire • 834-4438 • www.redrobin.com
Redzone Sports Bar 2071 S. Prairie View Rd., Chippewa Falls • 726-3030
Chester’s 3228 London Road, EC • 832-9560 Connell’s Club 12 E11295 Hwy. 12, Fall Creek •
Sammy’s Pizza Restaurant & Pub 2812 London
Country Zone Bar E4499 Cty Road C, Menomonie
Sherwood Inn 400 S. 130th Ave, Fall Creek Shots Bar 2112 Esmond Rd., EC • 552-2169 Slim’s Lake Hallie Tavern 1979 County Hwy OO,
877-2140
• 664-8390
Dean & Sue’s Bar & Grill 2002 Midway Rd., Menomonie • 235-9940
Do Dodge Inn 1339 Menomonie St, Eau Claire •
832-9480
Dooley’s Pub 442 Water St, Eau Claire • 834-2388 Duncan Creek Wine Bar & Grille 213 N. Bridge
St., Chippewa Falls • 723-7000
Rd, Eau Claire • 831-1300
Shari’s Chippewa Club 106 W. Main St., Durand • 672-8785
Chippewa Falls • 832-9303
Sparx 1827 N. Broadway St., Menomonie • 2353000 • www.sparxrestaurant.com
Stout Ale House 1501 N. Broadway St.,
Menomonie • 233-3333 • www.stoutalehouse.com
Erwin’s 19th Hole 1705 County Highway OO,
Sunbeam Tavern 1310 E Park Ave, Chippewa
Every Buddy’s Bar 19 W. Central St., Chippewa
Sweeney’s Bar & Grill 201 E. Canal St., Chip-
Chippewa Falls • 831-6337
Falls • 861-3838 • everybuddysbar.net
Falls Bowl 9 W Columbia St, Chip. Falls • 723-3347 Famous Dave’s 2911 Mall Dr., Eau Claire • 835-
2227 • www.famousdaves.com
Girolamo’s Court N House 113 W. Grand Ave., Eau Claire • 832-5478
Glen Loch Saloon 1300 Jefferson Ave., Chippewa
Falls • 723-4137
pewa Falls • 723-9905
Tailgates Sports Bar & Grill 1505 N. Clairemont Ave., EC • 552-1733 • tailgatessportsbar.com
Texas Roadhouse 5019 Keystone Crossing, Eau
Claire • 838-0035 • www.texasroadhouse.com
TGI Fridays 4800 Golf Rd, Eau Claire • 830-1424 • www.fridayseauclaire.com
Golden Spike Bar & Grill 228 Division St., Al-
Tom & Jo’s 1401 Tainter St., Meno. • 235-0520 Tomahawk Room 306 N. Bridge St., Chippewa
Green Mill/Holiday Inn 2703 Craig Rd., Eau
Two Waters Bar 2940 109th St, Chippewa Falls
Happy Hollow Tavern 1628 N Hillcrest Pkwy, Al-
Wagner’s Lanes 2159 Brackett Ave., Eau Claire •
Hilltop Tavern 924 E Madison St, EC • 835-9223 Hobbsy & Me 3620 Locust Ln, EC • 832-2219 Houligans Steak & Seafood Pub 415 S. Barstow
The West Hill Bar 250 W. Elm St., Chip. • 720-9281 Whiskey Dicks 943 Harlem Ave., Altoona • 829-
Falls • 723-1297
toona • 552-5526
Claire • 839-8687 • www.greenmilleauclaire.com
toona • 832-2826
St., Eau Claire • 835-6621 • www.houligans.net
Lakeside Lounge 614 Main St., Meno. • 235-4307 LeRoy’s on Spring Street 24 W Spring St, Chip-
pewa Falls • 720-0976
Falls • 726-9433 • 726-1810
833-6700 • www.bowlcec.com 3425 • www.whiskeydicks.net
Whispering Pines N12788 S. Prairie Rd., Osseo •
www.whisperingpines.com
Wigwam Tavern 314 E. Madison St., Eau Claire • 834-9061 • www.wigwamtavern.com
Milwaukee Burger Co. 2620 E Clairemont Ave., Eau Claire • 834-6503
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ANDREA PAULSETH
Aqua Lounge 5051 Fairview Dr., Eau Claire • (888)
861-6001 • www.metropolisresort.com • Located inside Metropolis Resort and next to Action City, the Aqua Lounge has all of the amenities assumed therein (food, games, etc.). They’re perhaps best known for an impressive list of 20-plus martinis, including the namesake Aquatini and the ever-popular Mint Chocolate Chip martini. Regulars tout their bloody mary, along with the weekday happy hours from 4 to 7, 10 taps, and about 40 specialty beers. They have free bar mix, plus food from H2O Restaurant and Monkey in the Middle Pizza. Their banquet hall holds up to 300. O H F S
Asia Palace 4069 Commonwealth Ave., Eau Claire •
552-5883 • This well-lit, spacious and quiet place has Pagoda-shaped doorways and glowing mint-green lights. Asia Palace’s happy hour is from 4 to 7pm, when they serve up all the Tsingtao, Heineken, and Corona you can chug for half price. H F
Azul Tequila 2503 London Road, Eau Claire • 8330200 • With a warm-colored glow, this Mexicanthemed bar is your destination for import beers (15 are available) and traditional margaritas, which are served with crisp, delicate chips and zingy salsa - for free. Azul Tequila has happy hour specials, serves food, and has four tap beers. H F S It’s hard to miss the the giant brew tanks at Northwoods Brewpub (3560 Oakwood Mall Dr., Eau Claire) where they brew up to 17 different specialty beers, all of which go great with bingo.
NORTH EAU CLAIRE Bonnie’s Labor Temple 2233 Birch St, Eau Claire • 832-6227 • This is a classic after-work kind of bar. The bartenders remember your name, the beer is cheap and domestic (eight taps), and the food is simple and available after 10pm (burgers, chicken sandwiches, pizza). They’ve got pool (with a league), darts, touch-screens, and video games, but shuffleboard is king. A hall is available for large events; a balcony for small parties. Named Best Bar for Indoor Games in 2010 by V1 Readers. F Q Connell’s II at the Airport 3800 Starr Ave, Eau Claire • 833-9400 • With their Leinie’s Lodge theme and decor, Connell’s II has the cozy and warm Northwoods atmosphere you’d expect – as well as every Leinie’s beer on tap. Happy hours are 4 to 6, Sunday through Thursday, and they serve food in three areas: bar, dining room, and diner. H F Hobbsy & Me 3620 Locust Ln, Eau Claire • 8322219 • Hobbsy’s is a neighborhood tavern known for burgers (served late!), beer, and game day. They have happy hour on weekdays, occasional live music and karaoke, an outdoor patio, 10 specialty beers, five taps, pool leagues, and other games including darts, touch-screens, and a Wii. O H F
The Lodge at 29 Pines Corner of Hwy. 29 and Co. Hwy. T, Eau Claire • 874-2929 • With an open, casual bar area, 29 Pines is a prime place to meet, sit, and talk. Though bloody marys are ever-popular, they also offer 12 specialty beers and eight brews on tap. Enjoy their happy hour, occasional live music, pool, darts, food to order, and free pretzels and chips. Party room available. H F S VFW Post 305 1300 Starr Ave., Eau Claire • 552-
8438 • www.vfwclub305.com • With an amazing view overlooking Dells Pond, boat landings, and three outdoor volleyball courts with a full-service bar, this place is a popular summertime spot. They have gameday specials for NASCAR and Packers, plus happy hours weekdays 8-10am and 3-6pm. There’s
live music most Saturdays, and karaoke every Friday. They have 12 taps, about 14 specialty beers, and free popcorn. Their rentable dance hall (with stage) can hold 150 people. O H F S
Yankee Jack’s at Princeton Valley 2300 W. Princeton Ave., Eau Claire • 834-4050 • yankeejacks.com • With occasional deck parties featuring live music in the summertime, plus free putting, ladder golf, and bean bags, this “neighborhood pub and grill” is hoppin’ - not to mention the free pretzels. Happy Hour is from 5 to 6pm and 9 to 10pm daily. 35 specialty beers, four on tap. View the game on flatscreens or simply gaze out the big windows at the beautiful greens. Check out the golf leagues. O H F S
SOUTH EAU CLAIRE Applebees 4745 Golf Rd., Eau Claire • 831-1255 •
www.applebees.com • When the clock strikes 10 at Applebee’s, the lights go way down and the music intensifies, making for an upbeat atmosphere. Take advantage of their late night drink prices between 10pm and 2am. The manager recommends their Long Island Iced Teas, which will only set you back $1.99. Six tap beers, 14 specialty beers, food after 10pm. H F
Barley Club 4324 Fairfax Park Dr., Eau Claire • 831-9224 • This green-carpeted bar attached to Pine Meadow golf course is known for their Thursday night karaoke and indoor/outdoor games, from “swing the ring on the hook” to shuffleboard and bean bags. Outside tables are sheltered by a breezy windowed tent. Dance floor, occasional live music, happy hour specials, food, five specialty beers, four tap beers, and a dining room for parties. Try “The Frankenberry!” O H F Buffalo Wild Wings 4612 Keystone Crossing, Eau Claire • 858-9453 • www.buffalowildwings.com • Known for their mammoth TV screens and sports paraphernalia, BWW also has a pretty extensive tap line, offering 24 beers, of which 18 are microbrews or imports. Touch-screen games and team trivia are popular, along with the wings, which are served past 10pm. Outdoor patio. Named Best Bar to Watch the Big Game in 2010 by V1 Readers. O F Q Chester’s 3228 London Road, Eau Claire • 832-9560
• At Chester’s, the crowd depends on the time of day. Midday tends to skew a bit older, but the clientele changes as the night wears on. Admire the one carpeted wall as you play pool and darts, and take advantage of game day specials (including free snacks at halftime) and six taps. Volleyball leagues coupled with a relaxing outdoor patio define Chester’s in summer. Frozen pizzas available before and after 10pm. O F
from the Nightlife Guide at:
Bonnie’s Labor Temple
“
2233 Birch St, Eau Claire • 832-6227
review by JohnBoy
The giant, curvy horseshoe-shaped bar is worth the trip – you have to see it! Everyone mentions loving the shuffleboard table, as it’s one of the few places around you can play it, but what I really I love are the bartenders. So friendly and awesome! Just a great, laid-back place!
”
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Double Days 3020 London Rd, Eau Claire • 833-
2255 • This spacious bar on London Road is a great place to kick back and watch the game, with plenty of TVs stationed at every angle. Check out their popular “Tapper Tuesdays!” With 10 beers on tap and 12 specialty ones to boot, plus happy hour 4-7 on weekdays, there’s much to love. They also boast a dance floor and a separate pool room. H F
Famous Dave’s 2911 Mall Dr., Eau Claire • 8352227 • www.famousdaves.com • Known for its ribs, this lively BBQ place gets the salivary glands going. Try the Devil Spit bloody mary, made with one of the spicier BBQ sauces. The bar (which seats 14) boasts 18 specialty beers along with six on tap. Happy hour
Best Beverage Selection in 2010 by V1 Readers. O H F Q
O’Leary’s 809 W. Clairemont Ave, Eau Claire • 8346611 • www.abvicampusview.com • Known for its nightly specials coupled with live music (Fri. and Sat.) or karaoke five nights a week (Tues. through Thurs.) this large tavern within America’s Best Value Inn also has the convenience of an eatery (Mancino’s) and two party rooms (100 and 300 capacities) just down the hall. Happy hour is 3 to 7pm every day but Sat and they have an outdoor patio, dartboard, arcade games, free popcorn, six taps, and six specialties. O H S Ole’s Southside Tavern 2435 S. Hastings Way, Eau
Claire • 832-9321 • The crowd and the music vary at
Northwoods is a restaurant and microbrewery, carrying 17 specialty beers and 19 on tap, including the popular Floppin Crappie – a caramel colored ale – and the Muskie Light. Northwoods Brewpub, south Eau Claire is 2 to 6pm and 8:45pm to close every day. Food after 10pm on weekends, free chips, party room seats 40. H F
Green Mill/Holiday Inn 2703 Craig Rd., Eau Claire • 839-8687 • www.greenmilleauclaire.com • If you’re looking for late-night pizza, Green Mill is the place, as they serve their full menu until midnight. The bar can mix up an impressive 82 martinis and cosmopolitans. Happy hour at Green Mill is every day from 4 to 7pm and from 9pm to close. Six specialty beers and 13 tap beers are available. H F Grizzly’s Wood-Fired Grill & Steaks 4890 Golf Rd., Eau Claire • 832-6481 • www.grizzlysgrill.com • This “northwoodsy” bar and grill chain is known for its food and nightly specials (trivia on Mon., Titanic Teas on Tues., margaritas on Thurs.) Grizzly’s also has happy hour Mon. to Thurs. 4 to 6pm, provides free popcorn/chips, has touch-screen and arcade games, 16 taps, and about a dozen specialty beers. Two party rooms for 10-20 people. H F S Manny’s Cocina 4207 Oakwood Hills Pkwy, Eau
Claire • 514-0818 • www.mannysmexican.com • Choose from 25-plus specialty beers (and six on tap) at this handsome dark-wood bar within an upscale Mexican restaurant. The setting is spacious with a high ceiling and exposed beams, surrounded by inviting orange and green walls. Enjoy a margarita on their outdoor patio in summertime and a 3pm to 6pm happy hour every day. O H F
Northwoods Brewpub 3560 Oakwood Mall Dr,
Eau Claire • 552-0510 • www.northwoodsbrewpub. com • Northwoods is a restaurant and microbrewery in Eau Claire, carrying 17 specialty beers and 19 on tap, including the popular Floppin Crappie – a caramel colored ale – and the Muskie Light. The eclectic menu features lefse, elk, and bison dishes, and food is served late. They have a party room and two outdoor patios and happy hour specials every day (with all day happy hour Tues.) A game of pool is free with any purchase, and darts are available, too. Named
ICON KEY H = Has recurring happy hour specials. F = Serves food other than frozen pizzas. O = Has an outdoor patio area. = Has free snacks (popcorn, nuts, chips, etc.).
Q = Winner: 2010 V1 Best of the Valley Reader Poll.
this Southside bar. During the day, it tends to be the domain of middle-aged folk. They have a designated outdoor smoking area, pool, darts (plus leagues for both), three specialty beers, four tap beers, and free popcorn and/or peanuts in the shell. O S
Olive Garden 4920 Golf Rd, Eau Claire • 838-0707 • www.olivegarden.com • The bar at this popular Italian restaurant chain is best known for an extensive wine list composed of more than 30 wines from America, Australia, and (of course) Italy. The staff is knowledgeable and provides the rare opportunity to taste several wines before purchasing one. Food until 11 on weekends, eight specialty beers, and three taps. F Olympic Flame 2920 London Rd., Eau Claire • 8357771 • Olympic Flame isn’t your typical drinking spot. It’s a restaurant that happens to have a physical bar where you can eat your Greek cuisine and enjoy popular items like Mythos (a Greek beer) and Ouzo (a Greek liqueur tasting like black licorice). Otherwise they just mix standard drinks. F Red Lobster 1019 W. Clairemont Ave., Eau Claire • 833-0184 • www.redlobster.com • This is one of three bars that refused to be a part of this completely free community resource that lists them for free. But from what we can gather on their website, this is a bar inside a Red Lobster, it has two taps and eight specialty beers, there’s 16 wines, and their specialty drink menu includes daiquiris, margaritas, and sangria. F The Red Parrot 1700 S. Hastings Way, Eau Claire
• 832-6431 • www.myspace.com • With a stage and a dance floor, this lounge-y, colorfully lit bar is a prime location for live music, which they have every Friday and Saturday night. Their burgers and pizzas are served until bar close, and happy hour is 4pm to 7pm every day. Play some pool, darts, or Wii games if you’re bored, and munch on free popcorn. Four tap beers, eight specialty beers. Outdoor patio is mainly used as a smoking area. O H F S
Red Robin 3005 Golf Rd., Eau Claire • 834-4438 •
www.redrobin.com • At Red Robin, the bar area is separate from the restaurant, creating a lounge area away from the kids. To accompany those bottomless steak fries, try the Flat On Your Beak drink (rum, sweet & sour, orange juice, and Bacardi 151). Their happy hour runs Mon. through Fri. 3 to 6pm and includes free chips and salsa. Try the arcade games, eight specialty beers, and eight taps.Food is served until 11pm on weekends. H F S
Sammy’s Pizza Restaurant & Pub 2812 London
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ANDREA PAULSETH
Locals love watching “the game” at Ray’s Place (838 Water St., Eau Claire) whilst chowing down on a famous hot beef. Named a “Best Neighborhood Bar” by V1 Readers in 2010. Rd, Eau Claire • 831-1300 • This massive establishment is one-half eatery and one-half bar, known best for its rotating taps (of which it has 10, and five specialties) and pizza (which is served late on weekends). You’ll find live music (often classic rock) most Fridays on their corner stage and dance floor. They also have team trivia on Tuesdays, an everyday happy hour (4:30 to 6:30pm), darts (with leagues), and a party room that can hold about 50. H F
Shanghai Bistro 2930 Craig Rd., Eau Claire • 835-
3348 • www.shanghaibistro.org • Part of the reason Shanghai continues to be among the most popular Asian restaurants is due to its understated bar. It has an unparalleled list of top-shelf sake, plus at least a dozen unique beers, six taps, popular specialty drinks (like the saketinis), and a solid wine list. They have live jazz on the weekend, and Peter Phippen’s flute stylings on Wednesdays. Named Best Happy Hour Spot and Specialty Drink in 2010 by V1 Readers. O H F Q
Smith’s Country Inn S5786 Hwy. 37, Eau Claire •
836-9003 • A relaxed bar that boasts two party rooms, Smith’s is a gathering spot for eaters and drinkers young and old. Come shimmy on the dance floor, lounge on the outdoor patio and toss some beanbags, or play some pool. “Down home” food is served, and happy hour runs from 4pm to 5:30pm Monday through Thursday. Pool leagues, 11 specialty beer,s four on tap. O H F
Taverna Grill 2839 Mall Dr., Eau Claire • 835-2845 •
www.tavernagrill.com • Taverna is an Italian-infused sports bar with a relaxing, dimly-lit atmosphere, complete with acoustic music (but when the game is on, expect to hear that instead). The Italian Stallion ale, which is made exclusively for Taverna by Leinenkugel’s, is only available here. Or, pick from the 10 specialty beers and 14 brews on tap. The Taverna Coffee is popular, too, consisting of a triple cream liquor and freshly brewed coffee. Enjoy free popcorn, happy hour specials Monday through Friday 2 to 6, and an outdoor patio during warm weather. O H F S
Texas Roadhouse 5019 Keystone Crossing, Eau Claire • 838-0035 • www.texasroadhouse.com • With the restaurant serves up steaks and ribs, the bar side of
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things at the Roadhouse has six taps beers and 10 specialties with free peanuts and bread. An outdoor patio, food after 10 on weekends, and hourly line-dancing are also available. O F S
TGI Fridays 4800 Golf Rd, Eau Claire • 830-1424
• www.fridayseauclaire.com • At FRiDAYS, be wowed by the “flairtenders” (not to be confused with everyday bartenders) who can really whip the bottles around while mixing your drinks. Enjoy happy hour 4-7 and 9-close on weekdays and 9-close on Saturdays and Sundays. FRiDAYS serves food after 10pm, hosts DJ karaoke every Wednesday night, and offers darts and Big Buck Hunter. Enjoy 15 specialty beers and 10 on tap in this upbeat, unabashedly loud-music bar. Named Best Happy Hour Spot in 2010 by V1 Readers. H F Q
The Maple Lounge 2507 S. Hastings Way, Eau
Claire • 552-1998 • Located adjacent to the Maple Manor Motel, the Maple Lounge pairs a curved bar and dance floor with a full cafe. Expect to see lots of regulars and businesspeople enjoying the seven tap beers and eight specialty ones. Happy hour is a sprawling eight hours - 11am to 7pm - and if you’re lucky you might encounter their free pizza, soup, sandwiches, or a cheese and cracker tray. Separate party room with TVs. H F S
The Welcome Matt W3530 State Road 37, Eau Claire • 832-9400 • This highway-side bar (look for the wood siding and dark green roof) is equipped with the basics: pool (with leagues available), a happy hour from 4pm to 6pm every day, three beers on tap, and horseshoe pits for free summertime fun. H
WEST SIDE EAU CLAIRE Big ‘Ts 2007 3rd St, Eau Claire • 832-9508 • A friendly bar with a mixed crowd, Big ‘Ts is known for their Texas Hold ‘Em tournaments every Tuesday night. Their music spans the spectrum from country to hip hop. Keep busy while drinkin’ with their video games, dart boards, outdoor patio, and free snack mixes. Five beers on tap, two specialties (Walter’s and Fat Tire). O S
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Bowl-Winkles 1616 N Clairemont Ave, Eau Claire • 552-0564 • With a jukebox and a playful purple, green, and red interior, the bar at Bowl-Winkles is clean and hoppin.’ Take advantage of the free popcorn, and play some pool or darts or even air hockey in the game room (after bowling ten frames, of course). Four beers on tap. Check out the bowling leagues. S
Brewski’s 3340 Mondovi Road, Eau Claire • 838-
9989 • This cozy pub with an “at-home” atmosphere is primarily an amenity for the guests saying at Best Western, but is open to the public as well. They’re stocked at all times with homemade pizzas and four specialty beers. The popcorn is complimentary. Darts are not. F S
Brewski’s 1202 W. Clairemont Ave., Eau Claire • 834-3181 • This laid back bar within the Plaza Hotel & Suites is packed with TVs and serves free popcorn, a whopping 25 specialty brews(kis), and six tap beers. They also offer pool and darts. Their house shot, the ergsma, contains red bull and a few other mystery ingredients. Happy hour runs Mon. through Fri. 4 to 6pm. Serves food. H F S
Cancun Mexican Grill 2713 N Clairemont Ave, Eau
Claire • 830-0211 • www.cancungrills.com • This family-owned, sit-down Mexican restaurant and bar is known for their loud, happy atmosphere. Order a margaritas in strawberry, raspberry, mango, peach, banana, tamarindo, or regular - happy hour runs all day Mon. and Tues. If you’re a beer drinker, they have two specialty choices and six on tap. Party room available. H F
Chuck’s on Clairemont 1807 N. Clairemont Ave., Eau Claire • 835-2485 • Chuck’s is a friendly, family-owned establishment and a popular spot for food. They have a myriad of games: pool and darts (with leagues), touchscreen, Wii, outdoor bean bags, and occasional indoor tournies. Happy hour runs week-
days 6-8am and 3-6pm. DJs every other Sat, karaoke every other Thurs, four taps, free popcorn. Outdoor patio. O H F S
ting green games. There’s free popcorn, six taps, 10 specialty beers, regular drink specials, and a party room that can hold about 120 people. O F S
Do Dodge Inn 1339 Menomonie St, Eau Claire • 832-9480 • Do Dodge Inn opens at 6am, and if you want a drink this early, you can choose from their nine specialty beers and four taps. They have pool and darts, and for those who are hungry late at night, Do Dodge Inn serves food after 10pm. F
Sea Horse Inn 2106 N Clairemont Ave., Eau Claire
• 834-4356 • Like something straight out of the 60s, The Sea Horse is a local landmark embraced by the college crowd for its karaoke nights (Fri. and Sat. – remember, “everyone gets the clap”), cheap cans of beer, and sparkly blue padded chairs. The dance floor is a must, as well as the party rooms for birthday and
Remember, “everyone gets the clap.” the karaoke rule at Sea Horse Inn, west Eau Claire Elk Lake Tavern 10500 W Cameron Ave, Eau Claire
• In winter, Elk Lake is popular because of its proximity to a snowmobile trail; in summer they’re known for events like poker runs. Cheap drinks don’t hurt their rep, either. They have an outdoor patio, leagues for bean bags/pool, darts, touch-screen games, free popcorn, snacks on game days, two taps, and a party room that holds 30. O S
Low Down Saloon 1052 20th St, Elk Mound • 8749465 • A mellow, hometown bar, this is a place you can chat without the blaring music. They offer drink specials on Wed. (along with meat raffle) and Sun. (along with free popcorn). Volleyball is available “if you don’t mind the weeds,” and there are indoor games as well: pool, darts (with leagues for both) and Wii. Two specialty beers. S Mill Run Golf Course 3905 Kane Road, Eau Claire • 858-7960 • www.wildridgegolf.com • This newly remodeled and expanded “19th Hole” clubhouse bar, just down the road from Wild Ridge, is known for its great view and friendly staff. Its outdoor patio is popular in summer, along with its bean bags and put-
graduation shenanigans (downstairs holds about 60, upstairs about 50). Named Best Karaoke Spot in 2010 by V1 Readers. Q
Sweetwaters 1104 W. Clairemont Ave., Eau Claire • 834-5777 • www.sweetwatersec.com • Sweetwaters offers a casual to upscale environment that is enhanced by seasonal decorations. Ask about their featured wine and drink specials, or come during happy hour from 4pm to 6pm every day. With 20 specialty beers and eight on tap, you’re sure to find something you like while noshing on peanuts (free upon request). Party room can seat up to 110 people. O H F S Tailgates Sports Bar & Grill 1505 N. Clairemont
Ave., Eau Claire • 552-1733 • tailgatessportsbar. com • Even though sports are almost always on the TVs (including all kinds of satellite and pay-per-view packages), Tailgates isn’t just a sports bar. They’re just as much a nightlife spot, with live music from area cover bands most Saturdays, plus a DJ on Thursdays and Fridays, all in a huge stage area with a dance floor. Happy hours are weekdays 3 to 7, and karaoke
DANCE CLUBS & DANCE FLOORS Broadway Bowl 1501 N Broadway St., Menomonie
Pioneer Grill & Saloon E5699 Cty. Trk. D,
The Brat 314 Water St, Eau Claire • 833-0091 Dewey’s Roadhouse 1 E. Canal St., Chippewa Falls
DAV Foxhole Bar 4710 County Rd E, Menomonie Dean & Sue’s Bar & Grill 2002 Midway Rd.,
The Red Parrot 1700 S. Hastings, EC • 832-6431 Redzone Sports Bar 2071 S. Prairie View Rd., Chip-
Flame Lounge 619 Broadway St S, Men. • 235-9993 Moose Lodge 3606 Curvue Rd., EC • 835-6522 The Pickle 341 Water St, EC • 830-0638 Scooters 411 Galloway St., Eau Claire • 835-9959 •
Double Days 3020 London Rd, EC • 833-2255 Eisold’s Irvine Bar 130 Fleet St., Chippewa Falls •
DANCING IS WHAT THEY DO • 720-6023 • deweysroadhouse.com
• 235-2355
Menomonie • 235-9940
pewa Falls • 726-3030
720-1280
Sammy’s Pizza Restaurant & Pub 2812 London
Every Buddy’s Bar 19 W. Central St., Chippewa Falls • 861-3838 • everybuddysbar.net
www.scooters-bar.com
1st and Goal Saloon 29 E Park Ave., Chippewa
Claire • 836-8333
Glen Loch Saloon 1300 Jefferson Ave., Chippewa
She-Nannigans & Lucky’s 415 Water St, Eau
Falls • 723-7822
Falls • 723-1297
HAVE A DANCE FLOOR
The Great Escape 2909 Bongey Dr., Menomonie •
American Legion Post 53 634 Water St, Eau Claire
• 834-4091
Barley Club 4324 Fairfax Park Dr., EC • 831-9224 Big Jim’s Sports Bar 102 East Lincoln Ave, Fall
Creek • 877-1331
Bridgewater Restaurant & Pub 1009 W. Park Ave.,
Chippewa Falls • 723-6941 • avalonhotelchippewafalls.com
Menomonie • 235-9927 • pioneergrill.com
235-3472
Happy Hollow Tavern 1628 N Hillcrest Pkwy, Al-
toona • 832-2826
House of Rock 422 Water St., Eau Claire • 838-0158 • www.house-of-rock.com
Idlewild Bar 999 Malden Ave, EC • 834-2255 Loopy’s Saloon & Grill 10691 Buisness 29, Chip-
pewa Falls • 723-5667 • 723loop.com
The Maple Lounge 2507 S. Hastings Way, Eau
Claire • 552-1998
Volume One’s Night Out 2011
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River Inn Bar 10418 County Highway X, Chippewa Falls • 723-9481
Rd, Eau Claire • 831-1300
Sea Horse Inn 2106 N Clairemont Ave., Eau Claire
• 834-4356
Shari’s Chippewa Club 106 W. Main St., Durand •
672-8785
Shoe’s Pub 1321 Broadway St N, Meno. • 235-7030 Slim’s Lake Hallie Tavern 1979 County Hwy OO, Chippewa Falls • 832-9303
Smith’s Country Inn S5786 Hwy. 37, EC • 836-9003 Steve and Kathy’s Bar 110 E. Lincoln Ave, Fall Creek • 877-3218
Tailgates Sports Bar & Grill 1505 N. Clairemont Ave., Eau Claire • 552-1733 • tailgatessportsbar.com
VFW Post 305 1300 Starr Ave., Eau Claire • 5528438 • www.vfwclub305.com
Waterfront Bar & Grill 512 Crescent St., Menomonie • 235-6541
More online at VolumeOne.org
MICHAEL BARTSCH
touchscreen games, and foosball. Six beers on tap and 30 specialty brews. Named Best Specialty Drink in 2010 by V1 Readers. S Q
House of Rock 422 Water St., Eau Claire • 838-0158
• www.house-of-rock.com • The House of Rock is a best known as a music venue, regularly hosting local and national acts. They have happy hour specials every day, eight beers on tap, and carry a typical selection of specialty beers. There is a dance floor and there are free snacks and indoor games such as darts, touch-screens, pinball, and arcade. Party rentals. H S
The Joynt 322 Water St, Eau Claire • 835-6959 • www.myspace.com • With walls lined with pictures of blues/jazz/folk musicians that played there, art by Robert Crumb, tons of historic beer cans, and the infamous “No Light Beer” sign, The Joynt is an Eau Claire institution. Considered one of the best talking bars in town and with one of the best jukeboxes, The Joynt also has pool, darts, and video shuffleboard/ bowling. Their happy hour is a local fave from 5-7 every day with eight taps and 15 specialty beers to choose from. Named Best Neighborhood Bar, Happy Hour Spot, Bar for Drinking, and Bar for Talking in 2010 by V1 Readers. H Q
Local fun fact: the Happy Hollow Tavern (1628 N Hillcrest Pkwy., Altoona) boasts the area’s longest bar rail at 96 beer-swillin’ feet. They offer league play for pool, darts, and volleyball. is on Thursdays. Their outdoor patio includes a few tables and a volleyball court, where they have summer leagues along with bean bags. There’s also pool, darts, touch-screen games, and electronic shuffleboard. They have six taps and six specialties. O H F
VFW Post 7232 2900 W Folsom St, Eau Claire • 832-3528 • Best known for their cheap homemade breakfasts, this VFW is a family-oriented atmosphere with two happy hours every weekday (6-10am and 4-6pm). They have pool (with leagues) and big-screen Wii, free popcorn, six taps, and a couple of specialties. Their party room can hold roughly 100 people. H F S Wild Ridge Golf Course 3905 Kane Rd., Eau Claire
• 858-7960 • www.wildridgegolf.com • This “19th Hole” clubhouse bar, just down the road from Mill Run, is known for its great view and friendly staff. Its outdoor patio is popular in summer, along with its 20plus options for specialty beers. There’s free popcorn, six taps, regular drink specials, and a popular party room that can hold about 250 people. O F S
WATER STREET, EC American Legion Post 53 634 Water St, Eau Claire
• 834-4091 • This bar can seat up to 200 people usually for private occasions, when the upstairs or downstairs party rooms are booked. Their dance floor and jukebox make a winning combination, and happy hour specials will satiate your thirst. Choose from three specialty beers and six on tap; then play some pool. Monthly chicken dinners. H
The Brat 314 Water St, Eau Claire • 833-0091 • Stu-
dents flock to this bare-bones bar by the dozens for late-night dancing. Open at 8pm, the rail-enclosed dance floor is large, usually packed, and overseen by a pop/hip hop-minded DJ who may or may not take requests. The Brat also offers pool, darts, dart leagues, foosball, 10 specialty beers, and eight tap beers.
Brothers 324 Water St, Eau Claire • 832-2202
• Brothers is a college town kind of bar known for nightly specials and its happy hour (4 to 8pm with free pool and darts). They have an impressive 30 taps, 18 of which are specialties, as well as foosball and free popcorn. And, of course, dancing occurs, to the latest pop and hip hop hits. Named Best Happy Hour Spot in 2010 by V1 Readers. H S Q
Dooley’s Pub 442 Water St, Eau Claire • 834-2388 • Located a Blarney Stone’s throw from the university, this Irish-themed bar is bursting with happy hour specials offered seven hours a day, free popcorn, darts, video games, occasional live music, 12 tap beers, and 100+ specialty bottles. Extensive menu past 10pm.
Mogie’s Pub 436 Water St., Eau Claire • 836-9666 • www.mogiespub.com • Known for its unique appetizers, including Spuds O’ Plenty, Mogie’s Pub has a vast assortment of food and drink. Happy hour specials are offered every day, with Thurs. being an all-day version. Aside from specials, they offer an outdoor patio, food after 10pm, pool, darts, free popcorn, six specialty beers and 19 on tap. Private party room. O H F S Mona Lisa’s 428 Water St., Eau Claire • 839-8969 • www.monalisas.biz • The food menu at Mona’s is known for its constant rotation, and the bar is no different. They take pride in the fact that their 14 taps are always specialties and always-rotating; the same goes for their wine list, which is about 20 strong. The items that don’t change are the famous Mona Margaritas, martinis, and mohitos. Their Mediterranean bistro vibe continues on the outdoor patio (with a fireplace), and their party room is suitable for 99 people. Happy hour is Tues. through Sat. (4 to 6pm). O H F The Pickle 341 Water St, Eau Claire • 830-0638 • The Pickle has so much going on it’s hard to know
“You’ve got the best of both worlds,” a long-time bartender said, referring to the sports bar vibe of Lucky’s (mostly playing rock and country music) and the dance club tiki bar vibe of She-Nans (pop and house). Named Best Bar for Talking and Watch the Big Game in 2010 by V1 Readers. H F S Q
El Patio 228 Water St, Eau Claire • 855-8590 • Serv-
ing up strawberry, watermelon, peach, or lime margaritas either on the rocks or blended, El Patio offers a comfy place to lounge before hitting the “dancier” bars. Melon-colored walls with exposed brick give it a rustic Mexican vibe. As the name suggests, they also have an outdoor patio. Free chips and salsa, six specialty beers. O H F S
The Grand Illusion 418 Water St., Eau Claire • 8357797 • www.myspace.com • This college crowd hangout is known for their Delusion drink, the contents of which are unknown to all but the bartenders. It’s blue and fruity - that’s all you really need to know. With two levels (the open balcony on the second level looks out onto the rest of the bar, under which there are cozy booths), seating options abound. Don’t miss out on the free popcorn, pool, darts, pinball machine,
Volume One’s Night Out 2011
24
where to start. On some game days, the bar has free beer and sometimes food is delivered. The back of the bar has indoor games (darts, foosball, pool) and a bigger room to socialize. If you’re looking to dance, The Pickle prides itself on its dance floor and hot new music. The Pickle also has annual events throughout the year (Pickle Fest, Pickle Palooza, and Xmas Fest), nightly specials, the infamous Brett Favre shot, and you can spin the wheel for drink deals or cash prizes. 13 beers on tap. O
Pioneer Tavern 401 Water St, Eau Claire • 832-4455
• www.facebook.com • Home to the oldest outdoor patio in Eau Claire, the Pioneer Tavern is a classic college bar with a splash of local history. Happy hour specials are offered daily, as well as free popcorn on Tues., and 12 beers on tap, six of which are imports/ microbrews. Indoor games include pool, foosball, and darts, and volleyball leagues in the summer. O H
Ray’s Place 838 Water St., Eau Claire • 832-3991 •
More online at VolumeOne.org
Known for its hot beef sandwiches, Ray’s is the perfect place to relax with some grub and a beer. It has a foundation of regulars, but they make newcomers feel as welcome as Norm at Cheers. An outdoor patio, pool and dart leagues, six specialty beers, and six taps are available. Delectable homemade food is available after 10pm. Named Best Neighborhood Bar and Place to Watch the Big Game in 2010 by V1 Readers. O F Q
She-Nannigans & Lucky’s 415 Water St, Eau Claire
• 836-8333 • “You’ve got the best of both worlds,” a long-time bartender said, referring to the sports bar vibe of Lucky’s (mostly playing rock and country music) and the dance club tiki bar vibe of She-Nans (pop and house). Known for its dance floor and speedy service, She-Nans also has a huge outdoor pation, nightly specials, free popcorn, and karaoke on Tuesdays. They have a myriad of games, from pool, darts, and arcade, to touch-screen, beer pong (Thursdays), and bean bags. She-Nans has six taps, while Lucky’s has a dozen. Between them both, they have a couple specialty beers. Named Best Place for Dancing and Bar to Hook Up in 2010 by V1 Readers. O S Q
OUTSKIRTS EAU CLAIRE Brackett Bar 9150 Beaver Creek Rd., Brackett • 8784142 • In addition to their burgers and wings, Brackett Bar is known for their annual Snow-Biz event in January. There are happy hour specials every weekday, plus five tap beers and free popcorn. They have a pavilion in the back that can be accommodated for parties as well as internet poker and a softball league, both men’s and co-ed. H F S Eau Claire Rod and Gun Club 801 Schoettl Ave., Eau Claire • 832-4391 • www.ecrodandgun.com • Open to the public only on Tuesday and Wednesday nights (while the club is trapshooting), this bar has a simple setup of three taps, some cans, and frozen pizzas. There’s also a party room that can hold 120 people. Fanny Hill & Riverview Grille 3919 Crescent Ave, Eau Claire • 836-8184 • www.fannyhill.com • Best known as a long-running dinner theater, Fanny Hill has a bar with an outdoor patio that features an incredible view of the river. Check out the extensive wine list and delectable ice cream drinks. Happy hour is 4 to 6pm Sun. through Thurs. Some free snacks, ten specialty beers, one tap, and a popular party room that holds 200. O H F Fox Run Tavern 1515 S. 65th Ave., Eau Claire • 835-
6489 • www.foxruntavern.com • Starting as a small country bar, Fox Run recently ramped up their outdoor sporting options, and now they’re a perfect blend of the two. They have a ginormous deck and leagues for kickball, softball, volleyball, horseshoes, and bean bags. Indoors, they have pool, darts, and arcade games. Happy hour is 11:30am to 6:30pm on weekdays, and karaoke is Tues. and Sat. Free popcorn, six taps, ten specialty beers. Serves food. O H F S
Hipps Pub-N-Grub S7650 State Rd. 37, Eau Claire •
ICON KEY H = Has recurring happy hour specials. F = Serves food other than frozen pizzas. O = Has an outdoor patio area. = Has free snacks (popcorn, nuts, chips, etc.).
Q = Winner: 2010 V1 Best of the Valley Reader Poll. Volume One’s Night Out 2011
25
More online at VolumeOne.org
LEAH DUNBAR
Putting the “bar” in “Zanzibar,” Zanzibar Restaurant & Pub (228 E. Main St., Menomonie) is the home base of a formidable martini army, offering a menu of over 70 different kinds. 834-7822 • This food-serving country bar is known for their “mean drinks” and fun atmosphere. They maintain a beer garden during summertime, as well as a plethora of leagues, including darts, pool, volleyball, and horseshoes. They have a few specialty beers, and their happy hour runs Tuesday through Friday, 3pm to 6pm (closed on Monday). Party room available. “Midget bowling” has been known to occur here. O H F
Moose Lodge 3606 Curvue Rd., Eau Claire • 8356522 • This semi-exclusive bar allows nonmembers
know it the second you’re surrounded by old Hollywood decor, blues music, a fireplace, and regular events like wine tastings. There’s trivia on Thursdays, karaoke on Fridays, and leagues for darts and poker. They have board games and touch-screens inside, while outside there’s croquet, bocce ball, and a projector on the patio for Wii. Whenever they’re open they serve signature apps, homemade pizzas, and gourmet sandwiches. They sell carry-out liquor until midnight with free ice and a huge wine selection. Happy hour is weekdays 3 to 6, plus nightly specials and gameday deals. Three taps and about 25 specialties. O H F
This isn’t your typical country bar, and you’ll know it the second you’re surrounded by old Hollywood decor, blues music, a fireplace, and regular events like wine tastings. The Pourhouse, Elk Mound to patronize precisely three times. Enjoy their parquet dance floor (enormous) and various live bands every Fri. night. All drinks are made from scratch. Dance lessons the first three Wed. of the month. Food served Wed., Fri., (fish fry), Sat., and one Sun. a month (breakfast). Volleyball, horseshoes, pool, shuffleboard, underhand darts, video games, free popcorn, and occasional free desserts. Pool league Wed. nights. Party room. Three tap beers, 10 specialties. F S
Westgate Sportsman Club 4909 Sportsman Dr.,
Eau Claire • 832-4548 • www.ecwestgate.com • Open to the public on Tuesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, Westgate is popular for its taco nights and happy hours (5 to 6). There’s always peanuts and pretzels on the bar, plus three taps and 14 specialty beers available. They have pool, darts, and video games, plus trap and archery leagues. Their banquet halls can hold 300 and 100 respectively. H F S
ELK MOUND
FALL CREEK Big Jim’s Sports Bar 102 East Lincoln Ave, Fall Creek • 877-1331 • A bar that’s “kind of like Cheers,” Big Jim’s has a 45-foot, century old bar complete with mahogany pillars. Expect free snacks when the Pack plays, and if the 45-oz. margaritas don’t entice you, check out the three-piece bands Sat. nights. Dance floor, outdoor patio, food after 10pm, darts, video games, bean bags, 17 specialty beers, six on tap. O F S Connell’s Club 12 E11295 Hwy. 12, Fall Creek •
The Pourhouse W301 Menomonie St., Elk mound
• 917-1020 • www.elkmoundpourhouse.com • The Pourhouse isn’t your typical country bar, and you’ll
Volume One’s Night Out 2011
Shooters Showgirls N5614 850th St., Elk Mound • 879-5325 • Best known as the Chippewa Valley’s premier strip club, Shooters also has daily happy hours from 4 to 5, activities like pool, darts, and arcade games, plus a separate basement venue used for live music and parties. Said basement can hold about 150, and has a dance floor and adjoining outdoor patio. H
26
877-2140 • In true supper club fashion, Connell’s bar has an impressive variety of cocktail options – everything from ice cream drinks to after-dinner options. “You name it, we can make it,” a bartender said. They
More online at VolumeOne.org
PLACES WITH COMPETITIVE BILLIARDS, DARTS, VOLLEYBALL, BAGS, & MORE
eau claire
Ave., Eau Claire • 552-1733 • tailgatessportsbar. com • Volleyball and bean bags
American Legion Post 53 634 Water St, Eau
Claire • 834-4091
Barley Club 4324 Fairfax Park Dr., EC • 8319224
Bonnie’s Labor Temple 2233 Birch St, Eau
Claire • 832-6227 • Pool
Bottle & Barrel 209 Graham Ave., Eau Claire • 832-8844 • www.myspace.com • Pool and darts
Bowl-Winkles 1616 N Clairemont Ave, Eau Claire • 552-0564 • Bowling
The Brat 314 Water St, EC • 833-0091 • Darts Chester’s 3228 London Road, Eau Claire • 832-
9560 • Volleyball
Chuck’s on Clairemont 1807 N. Clairemont Ave.,
Eau Claire • 835-2485 • Pool and darts
The Depot 222 E Madison St, Eau Claire • (715)
834-9061 • www.wigwamtavern.com • Volleyball
Elbow Room 679 Wisc. St, EC • 835-1008 • Pool Elk Lake Tavern 10500 W Cameron Ave, Eau
Claire • Bean bags and pool
Fox Run Tavern 1515 S. 65th Ave., Eau Claire • 835-6489 • www.foxruntavern.com • Kickball, softball, volleyball, horseshoes, and bean bags
Happy Hollow Tavern 1628 N Hillcrest Pkwy, Altoona • 832-2826 • Pool, darts, and volleyball Hilltop Tavern 924 E Madison St, Eau Claire • 835-9223 • Darts and bean bags
Hipps Pub-N-Grub S7650 State Rd. 37, EC • 8347822 • Darts, pool, volleyball, and horseshoes Hobbsy & Me 3620 Locust Ln, Eau Claire • 8322219 • Pool
Idlewild Bar 999 Malden Ave, Eau Claire • 8342255 • Volleyball
Moose Lodge 3606 Curvue Rd., Eau Claire • 8356522 • Pool
The Mousetrap 311 S. Barstow St., Eau Claire • 832-8418 • www.myspace.com • Pool and darts
My Place 408 Galloway St, Eau Claire • 835-5483 • Pool and darts Ole’s Southside Tavern 2435 S. Hastings Way, Eau Claire • 832-9321 • Pool and darts
Pioneer Tavern 401 Water St, Eau Claire • (715) 832-4455 • www.facebook.com • Volleyball Playmakers Bar & Grill 101 Graham Ave., Eau Claire • 830-8292 • Pool and darts
Ray’s Place 838 Water St., Eau Claire • 832-3991 • Pool and darts
Sammy’s Pizza Restaurant & Pub 2812 London
Rd, Eau Claire • 831-1300 • Darts
Shots Bar 2112 Esmond Rd., EC • 552-2169 • Pool Smith’s Country Inn S5786 Hwy. 37, Eau Claire
• 836-9003 • Pool
The Sports Page Bar 131 N Barstow St, Eau Claire • 832-7798 • Bean bags and shuffleboard Tailgates Sports Bar & Grill 1505 N. Clairemont
VFW Post 305 1300 Starr Ave., Eau Claire • 5528438 • www.vfwclub305.com • Volleyball
VFW Post 7232 2900 W Folsom St, Eau Claire • (715) 832-3528 • Pool
Wagner’s Lanes 2159 Brackett Ave., Eau Claire • 833-6700 • www.bowlcec.com • Volleyball, bowling, darts, and bean bags The Welcome Matt W3530 State Road 37, Eau
Claire • 832-9400 • Pool
Westgate Sportsman Club 4909 Sportsman Dr., EC • 832-4548 • ecwestgate.com • Trap and archery
Whiskey Dicks 943 Harlem Ave., Altoona • 8293425 • www.whiskeydicks.net • Darts, pool, volleyball, and bean bags
Yankee Jack’s at Princeton Valley 2300 W. Princeton Ave., Eau Claire • 834-4050 • yankeejacks.com • Golf
menomonie
Bowl 1501 N Broadway Menomonie • 235-2355 • Bowling
Broadway
Chip. Falls • 723-0172 • foe.com • Horseshoes
The Dam Bar Under The Bridge 353 E Canal St, Chippewa Falls • 723-9959 • Pool and darts
Dewey’s Roadhouse 1 E. Canal St., Chippewa
Falls • 720-6023 • www.deweysroadhouse.com • Bean bags and volleyball
Eisold’s Irvine Bar 130 Fleet St., Chippewa Falls • 720-1280 • Pool and darts
Erwin’s 19th Hole 1705 County Highway OO, Chippewa Falls • 831-6337 • Pool and volleyball
Every Buddy’s Bar 19 W. Central St., Chip. Falls • 861-3838 • everybuddysbar.net • Pool and darts
Hallie Bar & Grill 1713 Hwy OO, Chippewa Falls • 715-861-3870 • Pool
Lake Hallie Golf Course 2196 110th St, Chip-
pewa Falls • 861-5442 • www.lakehalliegolf.com • Pool, darts, and golf
Lake Hallie Sportsman’s Club 2910 109th St, Chippewa Falls • 726-1015 • Horseshoes
Ba Da Bingz 414 E Main St., Menomonie • 2355100 • Darts and pool
• Pool and darts
Chippewa Valley Eagles Club 2588 Hallie Road,
St.,
The Buck aka Silver Dollar Saloon 315 Main Street, Meno. • 715-235-9390 • Pool and darts
LeRoy’s on Spring Street 24 W Spring St, Chippewa Falls • 720-0976 • Pool and darts
Loopy’s Saloon & Grill 10691 Buisness 29, Chippewa Falls • 723-5667 • 723loop.com • Volleyball, bean bags, pool, and dart Moke’s Grill & Bar 3077 CTH OO, Chippewa Falls • 720-8950 • Bean bags
Country Zone Bar E4499 Cty Road C, Menomonie • 664-8390 • Men’s and women’s traveling pool
Redzone Sports Bar 2071 S. Prairie View Rd.,
DAV Foxhole Bar 4710 County Rd E, Menomonie • Shuffleboard, pool, and bean bags (indoor)
Slim’s Lake Hallie Tavern 1979 County Hwy
Dean & Sue’s Bar & Grill 2002 Midway Rd.,
Menomonie • 235-9940 • Pool, volleyball, darts, and bean bags
The Snout Saloon 13 W. Central St., Chippewa Falls • 723-4848 • Pool and darts
The Den 613 Broadway St S, Menomonie • 2356171 • Darts and pool
Flame Lounge 619 Broadway St S, Menomonie • 235-9993 • Darts
The Great Escape 2909 Bongey Dr., Menomonie • 235-3472 • Pool and darts
Meet Market 545 S Broadway St, Menomonie • 235-9995 • Darts
Chippewa Falls • 726-3030 • Horseshoes pits
OO, Chippewa Falls • 832-9303 • Horseshoes
Sunbeam Tavern 1310 E Park Ave, Chippewa Falls • 723-4137 • Pool, darts, bean bags, volleyball, and horseshoes Sweeney’s Bar & Grill 201 E. Canal St., Chippewa Falls • 723-9905 • Darts
Tip Top 310 Allen St., Chip. Falls • Pool and darts Tomahawk Room 306 N. Bridge St., Chippewa Falls • 726-9433 • Pool and darts
Menomonie Golf & Country Club 802 Heller Rd.,
Town Pump 616 N. Bridge St., Chippewa Falls •
Pioneer Grill & Saloon E5699 Cty. Trk. D, Meno. • 235-9927 • pioneergrill.com • Volleyball
The Village Tavern 32 W Spring St., Chippewa
Meno. • 235-3595 • menomoniegolf.com • Golf
Shoe’s Pub 1321 Broadway St N, Menomonie • 235-7030 • Pool and darts
Stout Ale House 1501 N. Broadway St., Meno. • 233-3333 • stoutalehouse.com • Bowling Tom & Jo’s 1401 Tainter St., Menomonie • 2350520 • Pool
723-8989 • Pool or darts
Falls • 723-3009 • Pool and darts
Wander Inn 6020 County Highway X, Chippewa Falls • 874-5590 • Pool and darts
outskirts
Brackett Bar 9150 Beaver Creek Rd., Brackett • 878-4142 • Softball, both men’s and co-ed
chippewa falls
Low Down Saloon 1052 20th St, Elk Mound • 874-9465 • Pool and darts
Burly’s 19 E Canal St, Chippewa Falls • 720-9148
Shari’s Chippewa Club 106 W. Main St., Durand
1st and Goal Saloon 29 E Park Ave., Chippewa Falls • 723-7822 • Darts and pool
Volume One’s Night Out 2011
27
The Pourhouse W301 Meno. St., Elk Mound • 9171020 • elkmoundpourhouse.com • Darts and poker
• 672-8785 • Pool
More online at VolumeOne.org
MIKE O’BRIEN
likewise have about seven specialty beers, free chex mix, late-night food, a nice outdoor patio, and video poker. O F S
Sherwood Inn 400 S. 130th Ave, Fall Creek • This
cozy country bar is nestled within a full family restaurant. Their signature tequila poppers (equal to two shots; concocted from tequila rose, lime, and soda) have quite the impact. Enjoy food served after 10pm, karaoke, happy hour 4 to 7pm every day, and pool, darts, video games, volleyball, and horseshoes. An array of snacks is always on the bar. Six tap beers, 17 specialty beers. Private dining room available. H F S
Steve and Kathy’s Bar 110 E. Lincoln Ave, Fall Creek • 877-3218 • This rustic bar lined with wood offers quite an array of indoor games, including skiball, Wii games, pool, darts, and bean bags. The bar itself will seat 50 people, and there’s an outdoor pavilion as well as a dance floor-equipped banquet room available for parties (no rental fee if you bring 100plus people). Try their one specialty beer or choose from four on tap. Happy hour is from 6pm to 7pm on weekdays. O H
LAKE HALLIE Chippewa Valley Eagles Club 2588 Hallie Road,
Chippewa Falls • 723-0172 • www.foe.com • Plunk yourself down at one of the high top tables and ogle their eagle decor during happy hour from 3 to 6pm. The Eagles Club serves food and has five specialty beers available, plus seven on tap. This bar offers horseshoe leagues, but feel free to join in. Enjoy pool, darts, Wii, and touch-screen games. Three party rooms available. H F
Erwin’s 19th Hole 1705 County Highway OO, Chip-
pewa Falls • 831-6337 • At this dimly lit bar with lots of TVs and seating, your dice-shaking skills dictate your happy hour discount from 6am to 9am and 3pm to 6pm. Known for their Thurs. night karaoke and Sat. night live music, they also have pool leagues and volleyball leagues in the summer. On Mon., lime margaritas are popular (and cheap!). Darts available, free popcorn, outdoor smoking area, serves food after 10pm. Ten taps, 13 specialty beers. H F S
Hallie Bar & Grill 1713 Hwy OO, Chippewa Falls
• 861-3870 • With big portions of just about everything (including breakfast options available at all times), Hallie Bar & Grill will satisfy your hunger and your thirst. They even put out free bowls of bacon on Thursday nights. In balmier parts of the year, hang out on the outdoor patio. Try your voice at karaoke Thursday through Saturday nights, or join a pool league. Happy hours are weekdays 3 to 6:30, and they have 10 beers on tap. O H F S
Redzone Sports Bar 2071 S. Prairie View Rd., Chippewa Falls • 726-3030 • This laid-back, middle-aged meat market is host to live rock Fri. and Sat. nights and provides a constant shuttle service ($6) for overindulgers. Try the Windshield Washer Fluid shot it’s blue, but the ingredients are a secret. Redzone’s equipped with a dance floor, outdoor patio, pool tables, darts, a Wii, bean bags, horseshoe pits, and beer pong. Happy hour is from 5 to 6pm and 11 to 12pm Mon. through Fri., and food is served after 10pm. Fifteen specialty beers, three taps, free snacks for big games. O H F S Slim’s Lake Hallie Tavern 1979 County Hwy OO,
Chippewa Falls • 832-9303 • This place gets seriously hopping on select weekends when they invite bands or DJs to play. When the music isn’t live, karaoke rules the roost on Wednesdays, Fridays, and
The dance floor at The Red Parrot Lounge (1700 S. Hastings Way, Eau Claire) sees plenty of action with weekly live music featuring local bands that’ll make you move. Saturdays. Barbecue is their specialty, but a separate menu of food is served after 10pm. Free food during Packer games, bean bags and horseshoes when weather permits, dance floor, pool, and darts. Eight specialty beers and six on tap. H F S
Two Waters Bar 2940 109th St, Chippewa Falls •
726-1810 • Referring to being located just feet from the river and the fact that it’s a bar, the owner of Two Waters says, “Come for the wildlife during the day, stay for the wildlife at night.” In summer the bar has an outdoor music stage, tiki bar, patio, plus bean bags and volleyball. They serve bar fare late, have karaoke Thursday through Saturday, and have weekday happy hours from 4 to 7 (with snacks). There’s two taps and about 15 specialties, plus pool, darts, arcade, and touch-screen games. O H F S
DOWNTOWN MENOM Ba Da Bingz 414 E Main St., Menomonie • 235-5100
• This lively bar is known for their twice-a-year pig roasts which happen in conjunction with their Bar Olympics (bean bags, darts, and pool). The basement holds live music events on holidays and can be rented out. Ba Da Bingz also has an outdoor patio with a bar, “study hour” 6-9pm every day, pizza fries served be-
fore and after 10pm, touch screen games, five specialty beers, ten tap beers, and dart/pool leagues. O H F
The Buck aka Silver Dollar Saloon 315 Main Street, Menomonie • 235-9390 • With live classic or modern rock every Fri. or Sat. night, this bar has quite a varied crowd. In the daytime expect bright, natural light to accompany your happy hour special (3 to 7pm). They serve food, offer pool and darts (with leagues), 30 specialty beers, free snacks, 18 taps, and a separate party room. Try the popular bloody marys! H F S Das Bierhaus 120 6th Ave. W, Menomonie • 2313230 • www.dasbierhaus-wi.com • Menomonie’s Das Bierhaus is known for delicious Bavarian food and awesome house-brewed beers. Their award-winning braumeister has up to six brews on tap at a time; perennial favorites are the pilsner, hefeweizen, and maerzen. Order a boot or a stein, or get a take-home bottle. Karaoke happens the last Sat. of every month, and bands (jazz or polka) play for special events. Happy hour Mon. through Thurs. 4-6pm. H F Flame Lounge 619 Broadway St S, Menomonie • 235-9993 • Whether it’s DJs and dancing, indoor bean bags, a big televised game, or nightly specials like the popular “Beat the Clock” drinking deal, The Flame tries to keep patrons on their toes. DJs spin Wed. through Sat. and happy hour is weekdays 4 to
from the Nightlife Guide at:
The Buck (aka Silver Dollar)
“
review by FootDrums
315 E Main St., Menomonie • 235-9390
Menomonie’s best bar – hands down. Best mix of people, drink specials, entertainment, and let’s not forget the history. From loggers to modern day northwoods cowgirls, The Buck has seen its share of excitement. The huge pool hall offers a great place to mingle. A must for every Menomonie bar-goer!
”
Write your own nightlife reviews of more than 200 bars & taverns at www.VolumeOne.org
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9pm. The sports bar also has pool and darts (the latter has leagues), free popcorn, eight taps, and a few specialty beers. Try their famous apple pie shot. Serves food. H F S
Log Jam 709 S. Broadway St., Menomonie • 235-
0703 • www.menomonielogjam.com • Log Jam is a large (yet cozy and inviting) bar and grill in downtown Menomonie with an equally impressive outdoor patio. Happy hour specials are Mon. through Thurs. from 3 to 6pm. They have a staggering 34 specialty beers and 23 taps. If you’re looking to play some games, Log Jam has Ms. Pacman and Buck Hunter. In the warmer months, bean bag toss is outside. Weekly karaoke is on Wednesdays. Serves a full menu. O H F
Meet Market 545 S Broadway St, Menomonie • 235-
9995 • Meet Market has a relaxing atmosphere - you can sit in a booth and talk with friends or play games like darts, foosball, and beer pong. For those looking to socially drink, there are happy hour specials daily from 8pm to midnight. There’re four taps and six specialty beers, plus dart leagues. Once or twice a month they have live music. H
Waterfront Bar & Grill 512 Crescent St., Menomonie • 235-6541 • This lakeside hangout is known for its watery view and its chill, music-loving atmosphere. Catch a live bluegrass or hip hop band most Thursdays and Saturdays, and bask in the nostalgic glow of the posters of local/touring bands who’ve played there. Sit yourself down at a solid wood table and order from ten tap beers or eight specialty beers. Happy hour is 3 to 5pm, weekdays. Enjoy darts, food, and a danceable spot on the floor. O H F Zanzibar Restaurant & Pub 228 E. Main St.,
Menomonie • 231-9269 • www.zanzibarmenomonie. com • Both the international restaurant fare and relaxing interior of this urban bistro-style eatery can be best described as eclectic. They have eight taps, and about as many specialty beers, but it’s the 70-plus martini list and 80-plus wine list that really stands out. They serve some foods (tapas, lavosh, and apps) until 11 on weekends, and usually close no later than midnight. F
EAST MENOMONIE El Patio 1414 E. 9th St, Menomonie • 233-1476 • With
seven different flavors of margaritas, this brightly colored Mexican restaurant and bar offers daily drink specials, free tortilla chips and salsa, four tap beers, and 20 imports/microbrews. The bar is open along with the restaurant until 9pm Sun. through Thurs. and until 10pm on Fri. and Sat. F S
NORTH MENOMONIE Applebee’s 2303 Hwy 25 N, Menomonie • 233-3036
• www.applebees.com • With happy hour specials from 9pm to close, Applebee’s keeps the drinks flowing. Munch on the free chips and salsa that are complimentary if you’re sipping a perfect margarita (strawberry, mango, kiwi, or raspberry), served in a huge glass. Serves food after 10pm, five specialty beers, six taps, and plenty of color TVs with sound. H F S
Broadway Bowl 1501 N Broadway St., Menomonie •
235-2355 • In this open bar attached to the bowling alley, enjoy the quirky decor, including tabletops made out of old bowling alley pieces. Check out the outdoor patio, live music and DJs, food after 10pm, dance floor, pool, darts, bean bags, video games, and bowling leagues. Sip one of 13 specialty beers or choose from 17 on tap. Party rooms and a banquet hall available. Try the 22 oz. bloody marys. Happy hour 3 to 5pm. O H F
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ANDREA PAULSETH
The backyard tiki bar at Moke’s Grill & Bar (3077 Cty. OO, Chippewa Falls) is the pride of the pub. Games reign supreme with darts, hammerschlagen, beer pong, bean bags, and more. DAV Foxhole Bar 4710 County Rd E, Menomonie
• A popular spot for weddings, Foxhole comes complete with an outdoor bar, 18-hole mini-golf course, driving range, 5,000 square-foot dance floor, and can hold 500 people. Their happy hour is weekdays 3 to 7, and they always have free popcorn, three taps, and big Packer tailgate parties. They also have games and leagues for shuffleboard, pool, and bean bags (indoor). Live music and karaoke happen about once a month. O H S
Menomonie Golf & Country Club 802 Heller Rd.,
Menomonie • 235-3595 • www.menomoniegolf. com • As a hangout not only for golfers, the bar at Menomonie Golf & Country Club has an outdoor patio, happy hour 4 to 7pm on Fridays, a pool table, 3-4 specialty beers year-round, and free snacks that tend to vary. One beer on tap. Patrons tend to play cards and nurse bloody marys. Golf leagues available. O H S
Pioneer Grill & Saloon E5699 Cty. Trk. D, Menomonie • 235-9927 • www.pioneergrill.com • Pioneer is constructed from knotty pine and known for their burgers. Live bands (mostly country) play every Sat. night and Thurs. nights are designated Texas Hold ‘Em tournaments. Check out the dance floor, outdoor patio, full menu, pool, darts, two specialty beers, five tap beers, and free popcorn and bean bags. Volleyball costs a fee. Happy hour is 3 to 6:30pm weekdays. Appetizers and pizzas are served after 10pm. O H F S Shoe’s Pub 1321 Broadway St N, Menomonie • 235-7030 • Known for their 25-cent tappers (available Wed. open to close), this roomy pub is unique because it is also home to a liquor store, open until midnight seven days a week. The bar itself has a seriously large selection of specialty beers (40+) and four on tap. This is also a dancers’ destination, as well as pool- and dart-players (they have leagues), and video gamers. Chew on some free popcorn or peanuts while you’re at it. S Skoog’s Parkside 932 N. Broadway St, Menomonie
• 235-6124 • www.skoogsparkside.com • Known for their over-the-top decor, the heart of this supper club contains an indoor waterfalls that empties into a fish tank with a red piranha (not to mention the patioside
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waterfalls). Enjoy free munchies while gazing around everything, and come for happy hour 4 to 6pm Mon. through Thurs. Good food will accompany your beer (15 specialties and eight on tap) or, if you’re a bit braver, the Red Piranha drink (SoCo, grain alcohol, orange juice, grenadine, and Galliano liqueur). Party room for up to 100. O H F S
Sparx 1827 N. Broadway St., Menomonie • 235-3000
• www.sparxrestaurant.com • At this upscale sports bar you can expect seasonal drinks (like their wonderful mojitos) and take advantage of rotating craft brews and a recently-upgraded wine selection. Enjoy the outdoor patio, happy hour Mon. through Fri. 3 to 6pm, and food served after 10pm on weekends. Play a round of Big Buck Hunter while you’re at it. Specialty beers hover around 20 options, while tap beers remain solid at 12. O H F
Stout Ale House 1501 N. Broadway St., Menomonie • 233-3333 • www.stoutalehouse.com • If you like bowling, Stout Ale House is the place for you. With the bar and tables made from old bowling lanes, they have a bowling league as well as open bowling every day. For others, there are indoor games: pool, darts, foosball, and an arcade. Happy hour specials are from 3-5 Monday through Friday and late night specials start at 9 Sunday through Thursday. Free snacks are available at the happy hour buffet on Fridays. They have eight specialty beers and 16 beers on tap. On occasional Saturdays, there is live music. There’s dozens of televisions to watch sports games. If you’re looking to host an event, three party rooms and a banquet hall that can fit 500 people are available. O H F S Tom & Jo’s 1401 Tainter St., Menomonie • 235-0520
ICON KEY H = Has recurring happy hour specials. F = Serves food other than frozen pizzas. O = Has an outdoor patio area. = Has free snacks (popcorn, nuts, chips, etc.).
Q = Winner: 2010 V1 Best of the Valley Reader Poll.
More online at VolumeOne.org
• At this “big, family bar,” you can enjoy happy hour 8am to12pm and free food when the green and gold play. Their fabulous hamburgers will go down well with a glass of beer - choose from three specialty and three tap beers. Food is served after 10pm. Pool (with accompanying leagues) and darts available. H F
SOUTH MENOMONIE Bullfrog’s Eat My Fish Farm N1321 Bullfrog Rd.,
Menomonie • 664-8775 • www.eatmyfish.com • Bullfrog’s has recreational fishing, shore lunches, and a beer garden with live music on most Sundays. Open mid-May to Sept., arrangements can be made for group outings and educational tours. Board games, badminton and horseshoes are available. This family friendly, all-outdoor fish farm has a social area that accommodates 100 people. O F
Dean & Sue’s Bar & Grill 2002 Midway Rd., Menomonie • 235-9940 • Dean & Sue’s has a relaxing atmosphere and offers a variety of fun every day. There is live music a few times a year and dancing. For those who don’t dance, there’s plenty of games. Pool, volleyball, darts, and bean bags are available, and if you’re competitive, they have leagues, too. Dean & Sue’s also has free snacks and serves food until midnight. They have three specialty beers and four taps. There is also an outdoor patio and banquet hall. Happy hour is 4 to 6 weekdays. O H F S
BOWLING ALLEYS
TJ’s Inn E4496 Cty Road C, Menomonie • 664-8350
Broadway Bowl 1501 N Broadway St.,
• A popular hangout for hunters (they do registration), TJ’s is famous as a spot for a beer and sirloin steak dinner. Their happy hour is 4 to 6, Tuesday through Friday, and they have rotating free snacks on the bar. They have an outdoor patio, pool, and three tap beers. O H F S
Beaver Lanes & Pizzeria 21930 Hwy 12, Augusta
Bowl-Winkles 1616 N Clairemont Ave, Eau Claire • 552-0564
Menomonie • 235-2355
Cardinal Bowl 220 N Washington St., Thorp Chetek Lanes 695 Hwy SS, Chetek Club 10 Entertainment Center 200 Steele Val-
ley Road, Mondovi
Club 10 Entertainment Center W4570 Hwy 10,
Their award-winning braumeister has up to six brews on tap at a time; perennial favorites are the pilsner, hefeweizen, and maerzen. Order a boot or a stein, or get a take-home bottle. Das Bierhaus, downtown Menomonie Chippewa Valley Golf Club 2200 Crestwood Dr., Menomonie • 235-9808 • Adjacent to the rolling greens of the golf course, this bar has an outdoor patio, serves food, and offers eight specialty beers as well as three on tap. Happy hour runs 5 to 7pm on weekdays, and there is a party room available. Cozy up to the large bar and sip away to a backdrop of radio tunes. O H F The Den 613 Broadway St S, Menomonie • 235-6171
• The Den is known for its great happy hour specials (weekdays 4 to 6), which could explain why they go through so much tap beer. They have four taps, five specialties, and also offers dart and pool leagues. H
The Great Escape 2909 Bongey Dr., Menomonie • 235-3472 • This “beer bar” comes equipped with a full kitchen, a dance floor, an outdoor patio, party room, and volleyball court. Check out their pool and dart leagues, happy hour Monday through Friday 3pm to 6pm, six specialty beers, and four on tap. The crowd is a mixture of local people and college kids. O H F Lakeside Lounge 614 Main St., Menomonie • 235-
4307 • Known for their “peanut races” (involving a floating peanut, a glass of beer, and chugging), this wooden-walled bar has two happy hours every day one from 3 to 6pm, and the second from 11pm to 1am. Nosh on their free popcorn, play some pool and darts, and don’t forget to indulge in a hot beef sandwich, corn dog, or some pizza well beyond 10pm. Wednesdays are karaoke nights and Tuesdays are quiz nights. H F S
The Pub 516 S Broadway, Menomonie • 235-7770 • A “friendly” bar with pool, darts, and eight tap beers.
OUTSKIRTS MENOMONIE Country Zone Bar E4499 Cty Road C, Menomonie • 664-8390 • Country Zone Bar in rural Menomonie is best known for their homemade pizza, which they serve all day and late on weekends. They have happy hour specials every weekday and four beers on tap. Pool, darts, and video poker are always available, and they are host to a men’s and women’s traveling pool league. H F
OSSEO Whispering Pines N12788 S. Prairie Rd., Osseo •
www.whisperingpines.com • This clean bar attached to a campground has a large pavilion that they use for summertime concerts (Brian Bethke is a familiar face) as well as a full tiki bar. Their happy hour runs from 4 to 7 Tuesday through Friday (closed on Mondays). A big perk during Packer games is their free pizza and wings buffet. Also check out Doug’s famous Bloody Mary’s - chock to the brim with mushrooms, pickles, asparagus, and “just about any vegetable you can imagine.” Come with an appetite for pinball, darts, and pool. O H F
Durand
Denny’s Bowl and Bar 626 E Murray St., Boyd Falls Bowl 9 W Columbia St, Chippewa Falls
• 723-3347
Riverboat Lanes 218 W 2nd St., Wabasha Rustic Lanes 109 E Chippewa St., Cadott Schick’s Bowl & Brew 106 Main St., Cornell Stanley Bar & Bowl 36233 70th Ave., Stanley Stout Ale House 1501 N. Broadway St.,
Menomonie • 233-3333
Viking Bowl & Lounge N8590 State Road 40, Colfax
Wagner’s Lanes 2159 Brackett Ave., Eau Claire • 833-6700 • www.bowlcec.com
Whitehall Lanes 36423 Main St., Whitehall
STRIP CLUB Shooters Showgirls N5614 850th St., Elk Mound • 879-5325 • Best known as the Chippewa Valley’s premier strip club, Shooters also has daily happy hours from 4 to 5, activities like pool, darts, and arcade games, plus a separate basement venue used for live music and parties. Said basement can hold about 150, and has a dance floor and adjoining outdoor patio. H
LGBTQ BAR Scooters 411 Galloway St., Eau Claire • 835-9959
• www.scooters-bar.com • Scooters is our premier spot for LGBTQ nightlife, and among the best dance clubs, too. They have live DJs every Fri. and Sat., karaoke every Thurs. and Sun., plus regular drag shows. There are happy hour specials 3 to 9pm every day, and nightly specials afterward. There’s pool, darts, touch-screen games, free popcorn, 15 specialty beers, and eight taps. It’s a good spot for Packer games, with eight TVs, free food, and specials. Named Best Place for Dancing and Bar to Hook Up in 2010 by V1 Readers. O H S Q
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SPECIAL DIRECTORY
YOUR GUIDE TO THE BEST FOOD & DRINK SPECIALS IN THE CHIPPEWA VALLEY RECURRING DAILY DEALS FOR 2011* Lunch Special • Water Street Deli • 628 Wa-
MONDAY DEALS
Burger & Brew • Northwoods Brew Pub &
Grill • 3560 Oakwood Mall Drive • 715-5520510 • Northwoods Cheeseburger with kettle chips or beer fries and a 20 oz Northwoods brew or soda for $6.99.
Family Dinner Buffet • Broadway Pizza • 1520
S. Hastings Way • 715-552-5100 • Family Night Dinner Buffet Where Kids Eat FREE! One free kids buffet per paid adult buffet for kids 10 & younger. 5-7:30pm
Any Size Coffee 95 cents • Gloria Jean’s
Coffees • Oakwood Mall, Eau Claire • 715833-0040 • facebook.com/gloriajeanseauclaire • Get any size fresh brewed coffee for just 95 cents (an even $1 w/tax). Your choice of Dark Roast, Medium Roast, Flavored or Decaf.
Guy’s Night Out • TGI Friday’s • 4800 Golf Rd
• 715-830-1424 • fridayseauclaire.com • Get $5 Wings, $2 Small Domestic Taps and Rail Mixers, from 4pm to bar close every Monday.
ter Street • 715-514-4555 • Get any sandwich for $4.99 or hamburger for $3.99, add fries or a drink (fountain soda, coffee or tea) for $1 more. Free drink with any plate.
Drink Specials • Pioneer Tavern • 401 Water
Street • 715-832-4455 • $2.75 Long Island Iced Tea, Sex on the Beach, Alabama Slammer, Black or White Russian, Colorado Bulldog, Krazy Kool-Aid. $4.75 Domestic Pitchers, $5.75 Specialty Pitchers.
Pizza Combo • Sammy’s Pizza • 2812 London Rd. • 715-834-5565 • Enjoy a 14” two topping pizza, an order of cheese bread and a pitcher of sode(or 2 liter) all for only $21.99.
2 for 1 Burgers • Northwoods Brew Pub &
Grill • 3560 Oakwood Mall Drive • 715-5520510 • Buy one burger get one free and happy hour all day.
Double Punch Day • Gloria Jean’s Coffees • Oakwood Mall, Eau Claire • 715-833-0040 • facebook.com/gloriajeanseauclaire • Get two punches on your Specialty Drink Card for every Latte, Mocha or Chiller, and two punches on your Frequent Sipper Card for each freshbrewed coffee or tea.
Hoagie & Soup • Acoustic Café • 505 S. Barstow
Drink Specials • Pioneer Tavern • 401 Water
St • 715-832-9090 • 1/3 hoagie w/ cup of soup $5.19 or 1/2 hoagie w/ cup of soup for $6.49.
2 for 1 Burgers • Galloway Grille • 409 Gal-
loway Street • 715-514-0751 • Two burgers for the price of one with two drink purchases.
Chicken Soup • Azul Tequila • 2503 London
Road • 715-833-0200 • Enjoy a large bowl of homemade chicken soup for only $5.50
Street • 715-832-4455 • $2.50 double bar rail drinks, $4.75 domestic pitchers, $5.75 specialty pitchers, FREE peanuts and popcorn.
Lunch Special • Water Street Deli • 628 Wa-
ter Street • 715-514-4555 • Get any sandwich for $4.99 or hamburger for $3.99, add fries or a drink (fountain soda, coffee or tea) for $1 more. Free drink with any plate.
Ten Buck Tuesdays • Broadway Pizza • 1520 S.
DINERS & DRINKERS: Call the establishment for any details or restrictions regarding their weekly recurring specials. This is not a list of every special everywhere, these are paid promotional placements and each establishment is responsible for their own listing.
Roll Back to the 80’s • TGI Friday’s • 4800
Golf Rd • 715-830-1424 • fridayseauclaire.com • $3 80’s drinks, $2 small domestic taps, from 4pm to bar close every Tuesday.
Beef Tips Over Noodles • Heckel’s • 2621
South Prairie View Rd. • 715-723-0844 • Tender beef tips in a rich brown, mushroom gravy served over fettuccini noodles. Served with a salad and a warm breadstick for $7.29, available from 11am-9pm every Tuesday.
Chicken Soup • Azul Tequila • 2503 London Road • 715-833-0200 • Enjoy a large bowl of homemade chicken soup for only $5.50
TUESDAY DEALS
View Rd. • 715-723-0844 • Enjoy lean, tender turkey and gravy on Texas sized bread, served with mashed potatoes and your choice of vegetable for $7.29, available 11am-9pm every Monday.
Turkey Platter • Heckel’s • 2621 South Prairie
Hastings Way • 715-552-5100 • Get a large 1-topping or a medium 2-topping or a small 3-topping pizza. (Deep dish extra.) 4pm-close. All day drink special: $3.25 for a 25oz domestic beer.
Sushi & Martinis • Fuji Sushi & Steakhouse
• 4864 Keystone Crossing • 715-832-3388 • Sushi, Sashimi and regular rolls along with a fun selection of martinis available at discounted prices.
Hoagie & Soup • Acoustic Café • 505 S. Barstow St • 715-832-9090 • 1/3 hoagie w/ cup of soup $5.19 or 1/2 hoagie w/ cup of soup for $6.49.
$1 Tacos • Tailgates Sports Bar & Grill • 1505 N. Clairemont Ave • 715-552-1733 • $1 tacos or $6.99 all you can eat. Buy One Get One Half Off • Sammy’s Pizza •
2812 London Rd. • 715-834-5565 • Buy one pizza at regular price, get a second pizza of equal or lesser value for half off.
WEDNESDAY DEALS
Hot Beef Sandwich • Heckel’s • 2621 South
Prairie View Rd. • 715-723-0844 • Slow-simmered roast beef served on a kaiser roll and topped with sweet onion. Served with Jo-Jo po-
PROPRIETERS: If you’d like your establishment’s
specials listed right now at VolumeOne.org, or in this guide next year, call us at 715-552-0457 or email advertising@volumeone.org for details!
* Deals should be good until February 29, 2012. Volume One is not responsible for establishment’s deal changes. Call ahead to confirm. Volume One’s Night Out 2011
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More online at VolumeOne.org
SPECIAL DIRECTORY tatoes and Heckel’s creamy coleslaw for $7.29, available every 11am-9pm every Wednesday.
50 cents off Reg/Large Chillers • Gloria
of dipping sauces, French fries and Heckel’s creamy coleslaw for $7.99, available 11am-9pm every Thursday.
Jean’s Coffees • Oakwood Mall, Eau Claire • 715-833-0040 • facebook.com/gloriajeanseauclaire • Get 50 cents off any regular- or largesized Blended Chiller.
Hoagie & Soup • Acoustic Café • 505 S. Barstow
Hoagie & Soup • Acoustic Café • 505 S. Barstow
Jean’s Coffees • Oakwood Mall, Eau Claire • 715-833-0040 • facebook.com/gloriajeanseauclaire • Get 50 cents off any large (20 oz) hot specialty drink, such as a creamy cafe mocha, or a latte featuring any of our 27 flavor selections (including several sugar free).
St • 715-832-9090 • 1/3 hoagie w/ cup of soup $5.19 or 1/2 hoagie w/ cup of soup for $6.49.
Drink Specials • Pioneer Tavern • 401 Water Street • 715-832-4455 • $4.75 domestic pitchers, $5.75 specialty pitchers, $2.50 double rail drinks, $3.00 double call drinks, $3.25 double premium drinks.
Lunch Special • Water Street Deli • 628 Wa-
ter Street • 715-514-4555 • Get any sandwich for $4.99 or hamburger for $3.99, add fries or a drink (fountain soda, coffee or tea) for $1 more. Free drink with any plate.
Girl’s Night Out • TGI Friday’s • 4800 Golf Rd • 715-830-1424 • fridayseauclaire.com • Enjoy $2 margaritas, skinny margaritas, cosmos and MGD 64 Bottles, $5 spinach dip. Available from 4pm to bar close every Wednesday. Wing it Wednesdays • Tailgates Sports Bar &
Grill • 1505 N. Clairemont Ave • 715-552-1733 • 1/2 pound wings or boneless wings with fries for $4.95 or one pound for $6.95.
Half Price Wings and Wine • Sammy’s Pizza • 2812 London Rd. • 715-834-5565 • Enjoy half price wings and glasses of wine.
St • 715-832-9090 • 1/3 hoagie w/ cup of soup $5.19 or 1/2 hoagie w/ cup of soup for $6.49.
50 Cents off Large Hot Drinks • Gloria
Pizza & Beer Special • Sammy’s Pizza • 2812
London Rd. • 715-834-5565 • Enjoy $2 bottles of beer or unlimited toppings on a large pizza for $19.95.
FRIDAY DEALS
Friday Fish Fry • Ralph’s Red Apple Grill & Bar • 465 Chippewa Mall Drive • 715-861-5600 • Homemade Leinie’s Beer Battered Cod served with fries, coleslaw, and dinner roll for $8.49. Fish Fry Friday • Tailgates Sports Bar & Grill • 1505 N. Clairemont Ave • 715-552-1733 • Fish fry with fries, coleslaw and Texas toast. Two pieces for $6.75 or three pieces for $8.
Fish Fry • Heckel’s • 2621 South Prairie View Rd. • 715-723-0844 • A Heckel’s customer favorite for years! Try our tasty beer battered or baked fish served with rice pilaf, coleslaw, and a breadstick for $7.99, available 11am-4pm every Friday. Late Night Trivia • TGI Friday’s • 4800 Golf
THURSDAY DEALS
Pizza & A Pitcher • Northwoods Brew Pub &
Grill • 3560 Oakwood Mall Drive • 715-5520510 • Large two topping pizza and a pitcher of Northwoods beer or soda for $14.99.
90’s Night • TGI Friday’s • 4800 Golf Rd •
715-830-1424 • fridayseauclaire.com • $2 Long Islands and small domestic taps. Available from 4pm to bar close every Thursday.
Lunch Special • Water Street Deli • 628 Wa-
ter Street • 715-514-4555 • Get any sandwich for $4.99 or hamburger for $3.99, add fries or a drink (fountain soda, coffee or tea) for $1 more. Free drink with any plate.
Drink Specials • Pioneer Tavern • 401 Water Street • 715-832-4455 • $1.50 domestic bottles, 16oz domestic taps, bar rail drinks
All-You-Can-Eat-Drummies • Heckel’s • 2621 South Prairie View Rd. • 715-723-0844 • Start off with a half dozen drummies with your choice
Rd • 715-830-1424 • fridayseauclaire.com • $3 small Leinie’s taps, from 4-7pm and 9pm to bar close. Trivia starts at 9.
Hoagie & Soup • Acoustic Café • 505 S. Barstow St • 715-832-9090 • 1/3 hoagie w/ cup of soup $5.19 or 1/2 hoagie w/ cup of soup for $6.49.
SATURDAY DEALS
Hoagie & Soup • Acoustic Café • 505 S.
Barstow St • 715-832-9090 • 1/3 hoagie w/ cup of soup $5.19 or 1/2 hoagie w/ cup of soup for $6.49.
Wild Wing Weekends • Broadway Pizza • 1520 S. Hastings Way • 715-552-5100 • All day Saturday get an order of 12 wings, boneless or bone-in for only $6.99 with purchase of any pizza or entrée. Pizza & Chicken Combo • Sammy’s Pizza •
2812 London Rd. • 715-834-5565 • Get a 16” 2 topping pizza, 10 pieces of chicken and a pitcher of soda (or 2 liter) for only $32.99.
SUNDAY DEALS
Chicken Dinner • Galloway Grille • 409 Galloway Street • 715-514-0751 • Two-piece with mashed potatoes, gravy and stuffing $7.95. All you can eat for 8.95 includes dinner salad. Available from 10:30am to 2pm. Dinner Buffet • Jade Garden • 3620 Gateway Drive • 715-833-9868 • Dinner menu items all day for $8.95. Hoagie & Soup • Acoustic Café • 505 S. Barstow St • 715-832-9090 • 1/3 hoagie w/ cup of soup $5.19 or 1/2 hoagie w/ cup of soup for $6.49. Wild Wing Weekends • Broadway Pizza • 1520 S. Hastings Way • 715-552-5100 • All day Sunday get an order of 12 wings, boneless or bone-in for only $6.99 with purchase of any pizza or entrée. Pizza Combo • Sammy’s Pizza • 2812 Lon-
don Rd. • 715-834-5565 • Get a 16” 2 topping pizza, an order of cheese bread and a pitcher of soda (or 2 liter) for only $23.99.
Lunch Special • Water Street Deli • 628 Water Street • 715-514-4555 • Get any sandwich for $4.99 or hamburger for $3.99, add fries or a drink (fountain soda, coffee or tea) for $1 more. Free drink with any plate. Drink Specials • Pioneer Tavern • 401 Water Street • 715-832-4455 • $3.50 Long Island Iced Teas, $3.50 double bar rail drinks, $2.00 domestic. Pizza Combo • Sammy’s Pizza • 2812 London Rd. • 715-834-5565 • Enjoy a 16” 2 topping pizza, choice of appetizer (excludes “combo”) and a pitcher of soda (or 2 liter) for only $25.99.
* Deals should be good until February 29, 2012. V1 is not responsible for deal changes. Call ahead to confirm.
Volume One’s Night Out 2011
33
More online at VolumeOne.org
AHOY, SAUCY SAILOR Some Halloween rug-cutting at Scooters, Eau Claire
advertiser index THE 5 O’CLOCK CLUB
21
B & G LIQUOR
30
BONNIE’S LABOR TEMPLE LOUNGE
29
CHESTER’S
26
CLANCY’S
30
THE EAU CLAIRE FIRE HOUSE
05
EVERY BUDDY’S BAR & GRILL
21
FANNY HILL
26
GREEN MILL
09
HOBBSY’S
29
JAMES SHEELEY HOUSE
18
LOG JAM
06
METROPOLIS RESORT
09
MILLER HIGH LIFE
FRANK H. ROBINSON
INSIDE COVER
MOUSETRAP
31
O’LEARY’S PUB
18
OLE’S SOUTHSIDE TAVERN
25
PIONEER TAVERN
22
THE RED PARROT
14
SCOOTERS BAR
14
SHOOTER’S SHOWGIRLS
25
TAILGATES SPORTS BAR & GRILL
25
TGI FRIDAY’S
05
VFW POST 7232
22