Terry's Bar & Grill
Photos by Hope Dimick & Allison Beebe
She called him “Lucky Larry” as he dropped down into his usual spot. There was no sign, nod or conversation, but she knew his order. “Lucky Larry” had been coming to Terry’s Bar and Grill for years and today was “Taco Tuesday.” No one really knew how many years he had been a regular or why he was so lucky. This was food for thought for regulars, newbies and taco lovers.
Kim Brunkow, who has been a server at Terry’s for more than 15 years, says her customers are like family to her. The Walker family, who has owned the bar for decades, acknowledge their success is based on repeat customers, loyal employees, great prices and hard work. Janet retired after 35 years, and Judy worked at Terry’s for 26 years.
“We’re lucky to have them all,” said current owner Brad Walker.
Val and Terry Walker purchased the group of buildings located at 522 SW 6th Avenue on Jan. 1, 1976—the same year they married. The Walkers ran the Ginza Club and leased McDonnell’s Bar next door to Mike McDonnell—hence the name. Terry says he didn’t have to really think twice about buying the bar.
“Well, we used to drink and shoot pool there, so when it went up for sale, buying it seemed like the right move,” he said. “The whole family has worked here at one time or another and still do. Everyone pitches in to get things done.”
For the record, it was named Park Inn Tavern for two years—1974 and ’75.
When the legal drinking age was raised from 18 to 21, they added a commercial kitchen and changed the name to Terry’s Bar & Grill. Customer favorites include Reuben’s, chicken fried steak and burgers.
“We have everyone come in here from lawyers and legislators to blue collar workers,” Terry said.
A true family-owned business, Terry and Val’s four sons put in the work to get things done.
“One of my sons was in here the other day to mop the floors before he went to his regular job,” Terry said.
Brad Walker became the owner a year ago, but Terry is still there on a daily basis. “I like to run the errands and get Brad what he needs,” said Terry. “Plus, people come in to see Dad and like to talk with him. This is a seven-day-a-week deal, so many events involve family. Gosh, if we didn’t have our own family events here, I’d never see anyone,” said Brad.
The bar has closed twice: after a fire in 1983, they closed for four months and then again last year during the pandemic. The Walker family took time last year to paint, redo the floors and update plumbing. With a capacity of 150 they look forward to welcoming old and new customers alike.
Rick Crawford, a long-time patron at Terry’s Bar & Grill is one of those glad to be back in his seat at the bar.
“Terry’s is a neighborhood bar with good food, staffed with good people. The ‘Cheers’ of Topeka,” he explained.
