Owner Mike Schmidt, spent five years remodeling the building, and wrestling with city codes, but finally opened his Patterson Street Tavern in August of 2013. Mike credits his wife Bev for keeping him going when the rules and regulations of the zoning and the costs incurred to do things right became overwhelming. We were thrilled to write the story of their opening and sadly, we now share their ending. After three and half years of struggle, he announced tonight on his Facebook page that Sunday will be Riff Raff Tavern‘s last night.
You can just feel the emotion in his post:
“12 years ago before his death my Dad asked Me what i wanted to do. I dont know Dad, would like to open a Blues Bar, But man if it dont work, time, effort, money…. I just dont know…. Dad : your right you just dont know, and will never know if you dont. You afraid of failing ? You afarid of what the others might think ? The others who will say I knew it ? The way I see it If you dont then you will always wonder. If it fails then hey You took a chance and you will feel alright requardless of others. Thats what seperates Dreamers and workers from the others. and guess what , You can pick up the pieces and move on. And in the end you did more then 90% of humans who wish they would of. …..Dad, I just wanted a music venue were people could become Friends and relax in a home atmosphere…with no fear of trouble…… He is no longer here physicialy, his words just keep echoing in my head…….
What I am saying is that after a long battle with Everyone from Urban Development, zoning, Mayor, meter maid and everyone else in this city These elected officials, government workers who recieve pay checks from small buisness taxes will and will not do anything about the parking problem In front of the venues on Mick Montgromery way. With That said Riff Raff will close its Doors Sunday with Dallas Moore unplugged.”
He goes on to say that the lack of support and parking challenges were all factors in his decision to shut down. You can read the entire post here. But before they shut out the lights, they’d like to invite everyone to join them for their final weekend this Friday with Toni & Larry, Saturday SouthBound, and Sunday Outlaw Night with Dallas Moore.
Our heart goes out to Mike and his crew, being a small business owner is not easy and we’re glad he had a chance to pursue his dream. Best wishes to you all on your next chapter.
