Old Town Grain & Feed

What a great night -- one of my top five lifetime serendipitous bar finds.

First, don't be fooled by the name. This is a bar, not a feed store. Apparently it was a feed store once, and later, an ice cream parlor. At some point it became a bar, and since at least the 70s, a live music joint as well. There are tin ceilings, an old ornate wooden bar with a mirror behind, brick walls, and a little upstairs loft area that's super cozy. Overall, it's a beautiful, relaxed, well-lived-in, comfy atmosphere.

It was a Friday night, and fairly quiet early in the evening. We enjoyed a few beers (several microbrews on tap) and conversation. Then a bluegrass duo showed up, and the place got busy. We had thought we'd leave once the music started, but we enjoyed them so much we stayed. They played a great mix of bluegrass, country, and rock covers, were really interactive with the audience, and seemed to be a local fave.

I can't imagine a better bar to happen across when you find yourself in Fort Smith on a road trip with a couple of friends. Or any other time.