Construction is nearly complete at Big Whiskey’s American Restaurant and Bar, and owner Alan Lawrence says the locally owned downtown spot is on track to open by mid-to-late June.
Located at 234 Frederica Street in the former Bar Louie space, Big Whiskey’s will mark the franchise’s first location in Kentucky. Lawrence said construction is expected to wrap by May 23, with staff orientation and training to follow shortly after.
Lawrence owns the franchise with his wife, Lisa. He said the restaurant will have more than 6,000 square feet of space and boast a staff of more than 60.
“We’re looking at a grand opening around the third week of June,” Lawrence said. “Hiring is underway now, and we’ll begin training at the end of the month.”
The space has been completely reconfigured, including the removal and relocation of the original bar, a new main entrance off Third Street, raised seating in the center, and a garage door leading to an upgraded patio. A private dining area will also remain available.
“It’s going to look very different from how people remember it,” Lawrence said. “We wanted to open the space up more and create a great environment for dining and socializing.”
The menu features a wide range of American fare, including burgers, wings, steaks, salads, pastas, and signature entrees. The restaurant will also offer more than 100 types of whiskey, with a focus on bourbon — including Green River and 94, a label backed by country star Dierks Bentley.
“It’s the kind of menu where anyone in a group can find something they like,” Lawrence said. “And the whiskey emphasis really fits with Kentucky.”
To celebrate the grand opening, Big Whiskey’s will host giveaways, including a signed guitar from Bentley.
Lawrence and his wife have lived in Owensboro since 2014. Though the restaurant is part of a Springfield, Missouri-based franchise, he emphasized the local ties.
“This is a locally owned business,” he said. “We live here, our staff will be local, and we’re working to use local suppliers whenever possible.”
He said Big Whiskey’s will also be one of the few downtown establishments to offer extended late-night hours. The restaurant will stay open until midnight Sunday through Wednesday and until 1 a.m. Thursday through Saturday.
“For visitors in town or locals out after an event, we’ll be open when other places are closed,” Lawrence said.
Job seekers can view open positions and apply online at bigwhiskeys.com under the careers section.
“We’re excited to get the doors open and be part of the energy downtown,” Lawrence said. “It’s been a long road, but we’re nearly there.”
