Whiskey Lou’s Lounge (Facebook) in the Milk District has new owners.
According to new part-owner Jim Faherty, the former owner was based in Chicago and looking to sell. Whiskey Lou’s is one of Orlando’s best-known dive bars in part for their nostalgic murals and decor and also in part for their hazy smoke-filled bar and friendly vibes. It moved from East Orlando to its current home at 121 N. Bumby Avenue [GMap] in the early 1970s and has managed to remain unchanged ever since, even when Lou himself passed in 2008.
But despite the recent sale, Faherty, who most will recognize as a name attached to Downtown scene-instigators like the Sapphire Supper Club and Bullitt Bar, and from a long history in Downtown Orlando club promoting, told Bungalower that there are no plans to change anything.
Rumors started flying last few weeks when plans for the sale were being inked, with most whispers centering around the infamous Elvis statue being removed, which we were quickly assured would be staying.
“Elvis isn’t going anywhere. We may have to move him to the side occasionally for a band, but we would never take him out of the bar.” – Jim Faherty
Faherty is also working with The Veranda Live (Website) a group that produces live music and events that takes place in the courtyard of The Veranda, in the heart of Thornton Park at 707 E. Washington Street [GMap].
Photo via Whiskey Lou’s Lounge Facebook page. Elvis not pictured.
