After talking about the Gainesville Bar Louie for the past year, residents finally had the chance to sample the food and atmosphere at a special two-day “Friends and Family” event.
Prior to the official grand opening 8 p.m. Monday, the management invited the public to a "dress rehearsal" for the staff.
The new restaurant, situated across from the Regal Virginia Gateway Stadium 14 at the Promenade at Virginia Gateway, was packed with invited guests; however, the door staff was quite accommodating to anyone who dropped by.
“We’re having a blast, a good time; There’s good ambiance here,” Lonnie Entrkin of Bristow said. “We would definitely come back.”
The establishment is very lively and contemporary with raised tables and some booths, but the stars of the evening were the wait staff, who were honing their skills and ingratiating themselves to their new clientele.
Server Jeremy “Goose” Glaspy, who is a familiar face to Gainesville residents from working at Mimi’s Café and Sport and Health Club, was no less than exuberant, as he danced from table to table.
“ is an exciting new concept, which Gainesville certainly needs,” he said.
After teasing the full menu, he explained the game plan for the evening was a choice of two appetizers (Bruschetta Pomodoro and Spinach Artichoke Dip) and three entries (the Meatball Hogie, Louie Berger and BBQ Ranch Salad).
[Editor's Note: The bruschetta is served in a giant martini glass.]
Despite the abbreviated menu, guests were thrilled to be a part of the evenings festivities.
“We really like the ambiance, and the waiters are really fun and friendly,” Kirt Williams of Gainesville said. “They make the best drinks and the music is off the hook.”
Bar Louie Corporate Trainer Dexter Hoelle said he was very impressed with the Gainesville team
“The staff is amazing. They are a fully engaged team,” Hoelle said. “There is no standing around, they are always busy; they are the dream team,”
According to General Manager Landon DuPont, it was a long road to this opening. He even had some concern last week whether they would have all of their licenses in time.
“It’s wonderful to finally be able to open,” DuPont said. “We had a few hiccups, but we're ready to go.”
Support Bristow Beat - Donate Today!