Iconic Dive Carol’s Pub Could Reopen Under Joe’s on Weed’s Ownership

As dive bars become an endangered species in Chicago, here’s some great news out of Uptown: Carol’s Pub, the legendary late-night country bar is on its way to reopening with new owners. Local officials are reviewing a plan from the owners of Joe’s on Weed Street — the massive sports bar and music venue in Lincoln Park. Carol’s has been closed since September 2016.

Joe’s on Weed Street’s owner, Ed Warm, confirmed the interest. He’s not ready to share details on his plans for Carol’s. The plan needs to clear city approvals: “There’s a lot of licensing hurdles with the state and the city that need to be fixed from the previous years of Carol’s first,” Warm wrote via email.

Carol’s is a 45-year-old bar at 4659 N. Clark Street. The spot served booze until 4 a.m. most days and featured a house band, Diamondback, that played Johnny Cash, Dolly Parton, and other country covers while dazed patrons attempted to dance in front of the small stage. The bar also drew a reputation in the neighborhood as it would open in the morning, holding an “all-day, old school mentality,” according to the proposed plan of operation posted by 46th Ward Alderman James Cappleman’s office. The alderman is hosting a community meeting on March 1 at Truman College to discuss the matter, according to Uptown Update.

Carol’s 2.0 will be different. It would no longer be open on weekday mornings, according to the proposed plan of operation. Owners would work together with local police to keep the area clean and free of crime. Carol’s was a quintessential shot-and-beer establishment. The new owners probably won’t mess with that formula.

Joe’s has demonstrated an affinity for country music by booking acts at both its Lincoln Park and suburban Rosemont locations. Ownership is also an organizer of the Windy City Smokeout, the annual outdoor summer festival that combines barbecue with country music. They’ve been rumored to take over the bar since last year. Stay tuned for updates.

• Carol’s Pub, The Infamous North Side Country Bar, Closed Indefinitely [Eater Chicago]
• Carol’s Pub’s plan of operation for a tavern liquor license [46th Ward Alderman James Cappleman’s office]
• Meeting On Re-Opening Carol’s Pub, March 1 [Uptown Update]