New Bar News
Fort Worth bar scene ramps up big time with new venues off West 7th
Fort Worth's bar scene is about to expand exponentially with the opening of not one, not two, but three new bars at once. One will open in time for New Year's Eve.
The three new venues will open in the West 7th neighborhood, on a corner that had previously been abandoned, by partners Josh Reagan, James Hoffman, and Micah McDonald.
Varsity Tavern is a two-story tavern and sports bar concept on the corner of Norwood and Morton streets, in what was previously a vacant former auto body shop. It'll have a soft opening on New Year's Eve.
The bottom floor features a Jumbotron with 90-inch flat screens, DJ booth, and stage for live music. It even incorporates its own set of sideline bleachers, which a release says is perfect "for the ultimate game night or an afternoon of people-watching."
Adjacent to the dance floor are 13-foot garage doors which open to an outdoor space with bar games including giant Jenga, corn hole, ping pong, and ladder golf.
The menu has a concession theme with popcorn made from a traditional popcorn machine, candy bars, chips, and ballpark nachos. That sounds nutritious. The signature dish is Philly cheese steaks served in a cafeteria-style format, from chef Brian Fanzman, who previously worked at J. Black's and Eddy V’s. It'll be open daily lunch and dinner, from 11 am-2 am.
Upstairs will have a more upscale atmosphere, including a giant pagoda bar, fire pit, and lounge, with a separate entrance.
Bar No. 2 is called Funky Sound, located next door to Varsity Tavern. This 1,800-square-foot bar and lounge will play hip-hop all the time and feature murals that glow after dark from graffiti artist Jarod Davies. Let's imagine that conversation. "Hey, wanna go to Funky Sound tonight?" It could happen.
The generically titled The American Pub, aka T.A.P., is venue No. 3, located two blocks down, at the corner of Bledsoe and Foch streets. T.A.P. is a "true pizza concept," not a false one, with street-side windows where you can get pizza by the slice, as well a dining room and full bar. The plan for now is to stay open late, serving pizza until 4 am Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays.
Look for a joint grand opening for all three venues in late January.
