A new owner and a new chapter will soon start for this historic restaurant and bar.

Franklin Street

When it comes to the bar scene in Evansville, Franklin Street on the west side is a hot spot.  There are several bars and restaurants all up and down Franklin Street and on any given Friday or Saturday if you head down there at night the bars will be busy.  When I was in college at USI, we always spent our weekends on Franklin.  You could go to one bar and grab some food, then go to another for some live entertainment, and end the night at another bar with more food before getting a taxi back to your apartment (Uber and Lyft hadn't come to Evansville yet so we relied on sober friends or taxis).  One place that is well known for its good food and live music is Lamasco, and Lamasco is about to undergo some serious changes.

An Evansville History Spanning 90+ Years

Lamasco Bar and Grill has a long history on Franklin Street, being there for more than 90 years! Here is what Lamasco's website says about the bar's fascinating history:

The building at the corner of what became 6th Avenue and West Franklin Street was built in 1913 as a sheet metal factory, but by the 1920’s had become a hot spot for local gamblers and revelers, with rum running out the back door during Prohibition. At least that’s how we heard it! Lamasco Bar officially opened July 10, 1934, and has been a staple ever since.

Lamasco has since become a hot spot for bands and other live acts, and is well known for live entertainment along with their food and drinks.  In January 2024 Lamasco opened under new owners with a revamped menu, but the same old Lamasco charm.  However, they took to Facebook on February 13th to announce that Lamasco would be getting new owners and a remodel next month.

New Ownership and Renovations

The Lamasco Bar and Grill Facebook page announced that the bar and building had been sold. The new owners have not been made public yet, but Lamasco says when the new owners officially take over in March, they will close temporarily for a full rebranding and renovation.

Here is what the Facebook post says about Lamasco:

We are pleased to announce that Lamasco, the business and building, has been sold. The new owner, a friend, has our best wishes for success in this venture. A full renovation and rebranding will commence in early March, prompting a temporary closure. Although this marks the end of Lamasco's 91-year history, we are grateful for the friendships, memories, and laughter shared this past year. We invite you to visit us before our final day of operation on March 5th.

Heartfelt thanks, Charles and Brittany.