Johnnie’s Bar, a fixture on Route 66 in St. James, Mo., is marking its 50th year of business, according to the St. James Press.
A bit of history …
Originally opened by John Bullock, Russ’ father, in the downtown plaza in 1952, the business moved to the corner of James Boulevard in 1960 where it has become well-known on Route 66. After running the bar and restaurant for many successful years, John sold it to Russ and Tina in 1998.
With four employees, the bar has become a popular spot known for great service and good food. The Bullocks have seen a recent swell in business as more people discover Route 66 and the many community events that are bringing visitors to the area.
“The only real change we have done over the last 50 years is the televisions,” Russ explained. “We have good employees. They take good care of the business.” He says Tina handles most of the day-to-day operations as he gets to enjoy the visitors from their side of the bar.
“What I enjoy the most is to meet the people. I grew up here. It’s home to me,” he said.
It was at Johnnie’s that I first met Missouri Route 66 researcher Skip Curtis, nearly 10 years ago. We’d walked under the Stag Beer sign above the front door and sat down for a beer when we saw him helping the owners move some big furniture around. We chatted for all-too-brief time, then moved on.
I liked Johnnie’s … you could tell from its numerous elderly patrons that it had been a favorite hangout for most of their lives. I like places like that and the Luna Cafe in Mitchell, Ill.
Curtis died three years ago, but Johnnie’s lives on. Stop in for a hamburger, a cold one, and fun conversation.