It’s not the best looking property in the neighborhood. No quaint windows, sculpted columns or decorative landscaping. To employ the trendy phrase of late, “It is what it is,” makes the most sense, for it was, after all, a back door. But much like a shot glass, it’s not the container, but what’s inside that counts.
Except for an extended plank deck and a neon sign, the northwest corner of the Mid City Mall has not changed much since it served as the loading dock and warehousing facility for A&P. Deliveries of bourbon and beer have replaced the crates of produce and canned goods since the venerable grocery store closed in the mid-’80s.
Many of the Back Door originals recall the bare concrete space taken on by Tom and Linda Clemons in 1985. Two years later, it was purchased by current owner John Dant. Pool tables and television screens, as well as pub recipes and music, multiplied over the years, and so did the space – to 5,000 square feet. The patronage rose with the steady flow of rock and r&b aficionados, college and national sports fans, after hours hipsters, and many a loosened collar for happy hour.
A core of regulars – and irregulars, if you like – create a sense of family along with a remarkably tenured crew. Many customers and staff alike have put their salt, energy and more than two cents’ worth into the making of a social hub that has become a microcosm of the Highlands itself.
The drinks are mixed as strong as the loyalty to the establishment. A comment posted on the Internet reflects the pouring generosity: “I never make it a double – don’t have to.”
Anyone who saunters in can pretty much make it their own scene – couples and singles, straight and gay, a kaleidoscope of ethnic backgrounds, shooting the breeze or a game of pool, or sharing a communal basket of hot food before or after a movie or concert. Many tables are inhabited by groups of friends or business associates who’ve regularly met for philosophizing and brainstorming since the Door was opened.
The revelry of the bar’s 25th anniversary celebration culminated on January 14 with a buffet that included the Back Burner Grill’s spicy mainstay, hot wings, and a spread of pasta, poppers, fries and casseroles. A slide show of photos splashed over 20 years of smiling faces across a big screen. Trading in his comfy Polo for a crisp white shirt and tie, proprietor John Dant was at work and play – passing out raffle tickets, getting tagged for hugs and photos, and making a brief and humble speech over a lit cake. The crowd was three deep around the bar and the keeps were a blur.
When the last call sends everyone home, only the painted characters on the wall remain smiling and drinking into the next day, thanks to the lively brush of mural artist Bill Page.
Congratulations to the Back Door as it moves to the front of Louisville history. I think most of us will agree, we wish we’d had it as together when we were a quarter century young.
The writer can be reached at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
.