WAUSAU — The Hiawatha Lounge will mark the opening of a renovated Tiki bar with outdoor seating at a ribbon cutting ceremony at 1 p.m. on Thursday, June 29 at 713 Grant Street. The event is open to the public.
The Hiawatha Lounge has been family-owned and operated since 1979. The building has its origins in the early 1900s and is one of Wausau’s oldest taverns. Located conveniently across from the once busy train depot, the business operated as a hotel and brothel early in the 20th century. The Hiawatha takes its name from the passenger train that traveled through Wausau.
Roger Jamgochian purchased the facility in 1979 and dedicated many hours to creating a neighborhood bar. Soon after opening, a simple menu was added, contributing to the lounge’s success. Roger passed away a few years ago, but left a legacy which permeates the tavern’s fun-filled atmosphere and award-winning food.
The Hiawatha Lounge offers a schedule of weekly specials including a happy hour every Monday through Thursday from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. and an award-winning fish fry served every Friday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. A Sunday Funday breakfast and brunch is served from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Lunch is served during the week until 2 p.m., with summer dinner service held on Monday through Thursday from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., Fridays from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.
The renovated patio offers grilled jerk chicken and braised barbecue beef sandwiches along with live music every Tuesday from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., followed by karaoke until 2 a.m.
The business is open Monday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to close and on Sunday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. For more information on the Hiawatha Lounge, visit their site or call 715-848-5166.
