The Handlebar — Restaurant in Pensacola

The Handlebar is back with new owners. They've classed up the place, for sure. Gone are the days of inch-deep puddles of urine in the bathrooms, but similarly gone are most of the affordable prices. You can still snag a PBR tallboy for cheap, but most of the menu is way more costly than that of the underground dive bar you may fondly remember. (Don't worry... It's not nearly as bad as the gentrification of Sir Richard's.)

The increased prices come with some major upgrades, though. They have a full liquor license now, so options are abundant, and most importantly, Pensacola has a venue for touring independent acts that aren't big enough to book Vinyl Music Hall now-- and also a critically needed venue for the local music scene to thrive. That alone will make it a staple of counterculture in the area. After Sluggo's, The Handlebar, and Chizuko all closed, the music scene was all but dead, propped up by the 309 house as the last line of defense (like it has been several times in past years; plus ça change). The rebirth of the Handlebar has the potential to lead to a resurgence of the Pensacola independent scene.

There are plenty of complaints from the old guard about the prices, but the upgrades to the building are notable. The old Handlebar never got much maintenance; before it burned down back in the day, it looked like it would have fallen down in another few weeks anyway, and when they rebuilt, it still wasn't much to look at. Maybe a place with clean bathrooms isn't punk rock and/or metal enough for some of the Handlebar's former regulars, but I think we can get used to it. Also drastically improved is the courtyard, now featuring large panel windows that can be opened so you can watch shows from outside. Some people have been annoyed at having to wait outside when the bar is at capacity. Rules weren't exactly a big concern at the old Handlebar, but they actually follow fire codes here. (Which I honestly don't think I've ever seen at literally any venue I've played on tour or in town.)

Is it your old Handlebar? No. But that's probably good for the music scene. In the latter years of the Handlebar, my bands were ripped off every time we played there. Judging from the look of the new one, I doubt that's going to be a problem anymore. At least, it had better not be, because their drink prices are high enough that they can certainly afford to properly pay the bands that bring in their clientele.

All told, it's much closer to Chizuko than the old Handlebar, and with good reason; management from Chizuko is involved, and if you don't think that's a huge upgrade over the old Handlebar's management, then you clearly never played those venues in the past. By my estimation, the higher prices are worth the upgrade, and for those complaining, you can still be a crust punk and drink your cheap PBR, but now there are drink options for people who don't mind paying more and want to support the local music scene and local breweries. Give the place a chance. It has the potential to be a huge upgrade...

The Handlebar is a newly remodeled dive bar that deserves every bit of its five-star rating. It's a place where you can bring your moms and have an incredible night out. The bar has undergone a remarkable transformation, and the improvements are evident throughout.

One of the standout features of The Handlebar is its exceptional sound and lighting system. Whether you're catching a live performance or enjoying the vibrant atmosphere, the audio and visual experience is top-notch. The venue's attention to detail in creating an immersive sonic and visual experience sets it apart from other bars in town.

Affordability is another factor that makes The Handlebar shine. The drinks are reasonably priced, allowing you to enjoy a fantastic night out without breaking the bank. This combination of quality and affordability is truly appreciated and makes The Handlebar an inviting place to spend time with friends.

What truly sets The Handlebar apart is its welcoming and inclusive vibe. The atmosphere is warm and friendly, making everyone feel like part of the community. This inclusive environment is a testament to the bar's commitment to creating a space where all patrons feel comfortable and respected.

The Handlebar's limited capacity adds to its charm, as it creates an intimate setting for live music shows. Their reasonably priced tickets make it accessible for music enthusiasts, and it's no surprise that shows often sell out for smaller acts. If you're looking to catch a small concert in town, The Handlebar is the go-to venue.

In conclusion, The Handlebar is a hidden gem that offers an incredible live music experience. With its newly remodeled interior, impressive sound and lighting system, affordable drinks, and welcoming atmosphere, it surpasses expectations. Whether you're a regular concert-goer or simply looking for a fun night out, The Handlebar is the...

Went there tonight for the Taylor Swift event, was having a great time until I had to use the restroom, and I noticed that both of the restrooms were in use, so naturally I wait.... about 2 whole minutes goes by as I am still standing there waiting; an employee, whom my assumption is a bar-back approaches me in a RUDE manner mouthing "Can you NOT READ? There is a sign there that says DO NOT STAND HERE" I am in shock because first of all why are you yelling at me like I have committed a crime... I respond "Clearly I can read, where else am I suppose to stand. The spot I was standing was no way in the way of anyone wanting to pass" he says "GET OUT, GET OUT don't get mouthy with me" ... keep in mind I am still in shock, I look around an no one is really being aware of whats going on; so I really have no witnesses of this man in my face yelling at me. At this point I am in tears because I paid money to come to this "Establishment" and had to be harassed all because I wanted to use the restroom. Not to mention I am a BLACK MALE. So I can EASILY say this was a race situation. I was not there alone but my friends who I were with were near the front at the stage area. So what I did was escape from the employee who kept yelling at me to leave, I told my friends I was leaving and I ran out before things escalated. I am not a person of confrontation but I felt VIOLATED. As soon as I walked out I cried like never before simply because I was so hurt and upset by what happened. It would have had to be you to feel the way I felt in that moment.

Im not saying don't go here, because I truly was enjoying myself up until this point; I just want the owners to be aware of my experience and to possibly have a talk with the guy about how he could have handled this situation a little better. I didn't catch his name but he was the older guy with...