O'Hara's Irish Pub to Occupy Happy's Pub Spot on Third Street

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"At the end of the day, we’re not trying to rewrite the book on what Happy’s was for 17 years," owner Jeff Herman said. "We want to pay homage and respect to a brand that was a household name in Baton Rouge. We certainly respect that tradition, and now it’s up to us to move forward with that location and keep that going."

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Bartender Katie Porche pours a tall green tea at the bar of O'Hara's Irish Pub

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Herman, whose previous business ventures include Smokin Aces BBQ and Tiger Deaux-nuts, has partnered with Brian Ott, co-owner of The Basin Music Hall, to open O'Haras.

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The inspiration for the pub came from O’Hara’s Restaurant and Pub, a first responder bar in New York City that is located about two blocks away from the World Trade Center. Several law enforcement, military and other first responder patches hang above the main bar in Baton Rouge, and general manager Clint Davis says he welcomes people to bring other patches to showcase.

He added that O'Haras will keep certain attributes from Happy's intact, including the giant, green outdoor mural and golden "Mug Club" plaques. At Happy's, patrons could purchase a plaque with their name and number on it, along with a personalized mug. When someone from the "Mug Club" came in, they could use their mug.

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The game room at O'Hara's Irish Pub as seen on Friday, May 17, 2024.

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On the patio, Herman has plans to reinstate an outdoor pergola and host local food vendors on Sundays. He also wants to host Thursday piano nights and construct an indoor stage for private events.

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