By D’Ann Dreiling
Finally, socializing has returned to our realm and the Waldo neighborhood welcomes a new bar and grill, Social. This upscale sports bar at 7425 Broadway replaces the former Tanner’s Bar and Grill. Owners Shawn Larson and Tyler Humar, and general manager, Dave Meeker have a combined 50 years in the restaurant business and are excited about their new venture. As the song goes, these guys “just wanna have fun.” With a 144 inch TV behind the bar, 19 additional TV’s, 22 beers on tap, bottled beer and cocktail specials, live music on Thursday, Friday and Saturday, having fun is a given.
“The former space was cleared out,” says Meeker, “Homily Construction did all of the interior work, but the design was totally Tyler’s vision.”
On the south wall of the Social is a colorful mural by artist Doodle Dood. It begins in Columbia, Missouri with a scene from MU, continues to Manhattan, Ks. depicting K State, onward to Lawrence, Ks. and KU, and ending in Kansas City where UMKC. and Rockhurst University are represented.
The north wall is the exposed brick of the original building, and beautiful pine wood paneling completes the eclectic interior. Gigantic lighted letters across the ceiling spell out the word SOCIAL in case anyone forgets where they are. Lined up along a ceiling rafter is Lawson’s bobble head collection and state of the art dart games will keep customers amused between innings.
“We are licensed for a 3 a.m. closing,” says Lawson, “and are planning on having early and late night happy hours. We’ve got a great chef who’ll make burgers your way, and customers will be blown away by our Nacho Daddy.”
“We’ll have all the games televised,” Humar joins in, “and we hope everyone will be here to cheer on their favorite team!”
In his enthusiasm, Meeker sweeps Tyler Humar off his feet. “We’re almost there!” he exclaims.
The owners have begun serving to the public during a soft opening.
Watch for the grand opening!