The Back Bar — Restaurant in Edwardsville

Nearly a year after losing one of the most popular watering holes in Edwardsville, the bar’s former manager plans to bring it back with a new name and updated look.

Marion Gilson, better known as “Mama Marion” around town, will reopen the back half of Laurie’s Place soon. A 15-year veteran of Laurie’s Place, Gilson has renamed the watering hole The Back Bar and hopes to open at 2 p.m. Dec. 7.

“When it was Laurie’s, if were up front we would always say ‘let’s go to the back bar’,” Gilson said. “I wanted to keep it simple. I wanted to keep it home.”

In the rear of the building, Gilson has already moved in and updated the space. She’s painted the walls, revamped the stage and added new beer taps.

Gilson plans to bring live music back to the space when it reopens. A moving date for Soure Juicery is yet to...

Would be your average weekend college bar, if the owner wasn't trashy and rude. I've gone here multiple times with friends, and every single time I am being served by the owner, I am met with a negative attitude and a short temper; as if I am not the one paying them. Especially when it's busy, this lady will get mouthy under pressure. I won't give this place another dime. Not to mention, if they don't like your tip they will kick you out. A place like this belongs in Wood River, not downtown...

Easy to discover why it's called the Back Bar. It's almost impossible to find. It sits in the back part of a building with no signs. Being an older couple, we like to eat a nice meal while enjoying some live music. This place has NO food, no character, and no hospitality. Learn how to run a business before opening one. Especially downtown Edwardsville. Nothing good to offer here. Don't waste your time. Chose a...