“Expanding the bar is something I have always wanted to do,” noted Frank Bobroski, one of the owners of Sodbuster Bar in Haymarket Square. “When the space next to the bar became vacant, we were able to lease that as well. I talked with the building owner, Bill Paul, who agreed to the changes I wanted to implement,” he recalled.
Within a short time, the expansion was completed. Bobroski designed the reconfigured bar, complete with a granite bar top, which has more than doubled in size flowing around into the new space, doubling the seating capacity. “This is what I have envisioned for a long time,” he said. Six tables seating up to four people complete the seating in the new area. A storage area and a large unisex bathroom have also been added.
“We were able to combine the new area with our existing space very easily,” Bobroski pointed out. “We cut through the wall between the two rooms and added windows behind the bar. People sitting in the new space can be a part of the entire tavern. They are able to enjoy the entertainment if they choose, but still able to hold conversations as it is quieter than it is in the original side. This is just a cozy, comfortable space with room for six tables. Later, next spring, we plan to add a patio that can be accessed from this room as well.”
“This is just how I pictured this space to be. My dad, Frank Bobroski, has worked with me for the last two months to make this happen,” he said. “Our customers are all very happy that the bar is finished.”
“We want to be known as a bar that features typical bar food,” Bobroski reported. Pizza, wings, chicken tenders, onion rings, pretzel bites, mac & cheese bites are just a few of the items available.
From its origins in the mid-1970s, Sodbuster owners have always wanted to create an environment that is conducive to a good time in a neighborhood bar. And, according to Bobroski, that concept still holds true. “During the week, we have a regular crowd and the bar staff and I know everyone’s name. This is a welcoming, friendly place and we all have fun here. We have entertainment scheduled on a more limited basis than before the pandemic. Bobby May and Friends are back playing on select Sunday evenings and the Skittle Bots will be here anytime they are available,” Bobroski promised. He also noted that former regular performers, Kyle Smithers and Cactus Jack, will be playing from time to time.
The Sodbuster is home to a variety of pool and dart leagues, keeping the two pool tables and dart board active. The game Keno is also available. In addition, a new Golden Tee Golf Game will be added in the near future.
Bobroski and his partners Autumn Shock and Matt Smith acquired the Sodbuster 10 years ago, redoing the interior at that time. Just before the COVID-19 shutdown, the owners renovated the small bathrooms and reconfigured the entertainment area.
The Sodbuster Bar is open daily at 4 pm.