Big Bad John’s

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There are different sorts of drinking establishments. When we at Horsing Around, feel like dressing up, we head to the Bengal Lounge or Vista 18 and sip expertly made cocktails in elegant surroundings. Heck, nothing wrong with that! But, let’s face it; some days getting dolled up is just TOO much effort. After a difficult work week or a trying day, we simply want to hoist a pint with die-hard friends and feel the day’s tensions melt away. These are the times when we head to Big Bad Johns, which fits us like a comfy pair of dungarees (and yes, I just happen to love the word “dungaree”).

BBJ’s regulars are an enchanting mix of artists, writers, punk rockers, regular folk, and people who resemble Ozark hillbillies.

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Walking in to Big Bad John’s for the first time is a surreal experience. One friend described it as a combination of deep dive bar, carnival haunted house and an episode of Hee Haw. We’d say that is pretty apt. All sorts of bric-a-brac adorn the walls from business cards to ticket stubs. Bras and lacy under things dangle from the ceiling. The whole place is softly lit by strings of multi-coloured Christmas lights. Great music emanates from the stereo – classic country crooners like George Jones and Loretta Lynn.

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BBJ’s regulars are an enchanting mix of artists, writers, punk rockers, regular folk, and people who resemble Ozark hillbillies. Take a seat at the burlap-covered stump and you can enjoy a cold draft and munch on free peanuts. If fellow customers get obnoxious, just lob peanut shells at them. If you are lucky, the burly overalled owner will be there and he’ll hand you your pint with a sassy remark. Drinks are stout and inexpensive.

 When you want a cold beer in 111% UV free surroundings, you can’t  beat good ol’ Big Bad Johns.