BIG T'S TO MARCH ON. The Valley favorite for Bloody Marys, Big T's Saloon went on the market in early January. In under one month, it's been purchased by a local management company.

Big T’s Saloon, a historic bar and longtime favorite for Bloody Marys in the Chippewa Valley, hit the market on Jan. 5 to the surprise of many. Big T’s regulars and locals wondered what would become of the saloon and its iconic tomato-juice beverages.

King Pin Management has officially closed the deal on Big T’s, 2007 Third St., buying the biz and keeping it under the same name, hoping to continue its long legacy. Specializing in event and restaurant management as well as consulting, the company currently manages an array of businesses across Chippewa Valley and Wisconsin.

Big T's Saloon, 2007 Third St., Eau Claire. (Via Google Street View)

King Pin Management is also involved in the Big Rig Truck Show, Blue Ox Music Festival, and Oktoberfest events in Menomonie, alongside managing eight bowling alleys including Broadway Bowl and Wagner’s Lanes, restaurants such as 44 North in Altoona and Wisco’s in Eau Claire, plus other bars like Chippewa Falls’ Thirsty Badger.

Jordan Tyznik, King Pin’s beverage director, said the company is not looking to change Big T’s, acknowledging the tavern as a local staple. “Big T’s has been a big part of the community and we look forward to being part of the next chapter,” he said.

“As soon as the liquor license goes to the City Council for approval, we will look at getting our inspections and reopening,” he added.

Longtime Big T’s Saloon owner Terry Luer was looking to retire after a 12-year run with the bar, which went on the market for $325,000. Big T’s is known for its whopping loaded Bloody Marys: the Ultimate Bloody Mary is shish-kabob’d with snacks such as cheeses, shrimp, sausage, veggies, a small deli sandwich, and even a Laffy Taffy, all for $7.

Folks have come to relish the bar’s savory mix and oh-so-Wisconsin vibe and are hopeful Big T’s Saloon will reopen with the same Bloodys to look forward to.

Learn more about King Pin Management on its website.