be bar opened in the 1300 block of 9th Street in September 2006 after triumphing over a local church's protest of its liquor license application. be bar's space is really chic, its drink list is fun, its happy hours are a steal, and its themed parties are consistently inventive. In be bar's two and a half years of operation, two other gay bars have opened in Shaw (Nellie's and Town), the 1300 block of 9th Street has seen a handful of buildings renovated and/or sold with renovation imminent, and new businesses have filled empty store fronts throughout the commercial corridor. Be Bar has brought attention, crowds, and vibrancy to 9th Street.
Rumors have circulated for a while that be bar is about to undergo a transformation, as such businesses must do to stay fresh and attract new clientele. be bar's website promises that "a complete REINVENTION is Coming May 2009." I recently noticed this facebook invitation to "be bar's closing party," which one commenter states is the prelude to a "New name. . . new look . . . same location . . .just not be bar." This Metro Weekly Hearsay post states that the transformed establishment will continue to cater primarily to an LGBT crowd. The unsubstantiated rumors I have heard that the bar is expanding to take up the entire second floor of the building, there will no longer be a VIP area, the second floor will be a great lounge area with pool tables and the like, and the downstairs and upstairs will have distinct names.
I'm excited for the unveiling!
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