Walking into The Locker Room is easy. There's no cover charge and no greeting from a stern bouncer eager to turn you away for being younger than 21 during the day. Perhaps one of the best things about the place is the welcoming, "All ages before 10 p.m.," sign on its window.
Either way, going to The Locker Room has become a tradition for many, whether it's to grab a beer with friends, watch the game, grab a bite or catch up on homework. Whatever the reason, The Locker Room provides a space for all of that without the typical bar riff-raff.
Justin Wrightsman, owner, has been in charge since last July and said he appreciates the positive environment and looks forward to coming to work.
"It's nice to come into work every day and see that everybody, for the most part, is in a good mood because it's a fun place to work," Wrightsman said. "When you enjoy your work, it makes the day go faster. I also enjoy seeing the kids have a good time, and making sure we're being responsible with our younger patrons so they can get home safe."
One of Wrightsman's employees is senior graphic arts management major Jafe Pitcock. Pitcock has been an employee for more than a year and a half, where he started off as a weeknight security guard. He eventually progressed to kitchen staff, which he said he enjoys.
"I really like cooking and being back in the kitchen," he said. "Plus, I don't have to be out late with classes in the morning."
Wrightsman said he believes The Locker Room won the Best Hangout Award because of its relaxed environment that allows customers to unwind with friends.
"We have more of a laid-back atmosphere where people can get together to just talk and hang out without the typical loud music," he said. "I think people appreciate it because it's not overwhelming."
Pitcock said he agreed with Wrightsman.
"People may go to other bars, but everyone always ends up here," he said. "It's the place to meet up and relax at the end of the night, and it's not too crazy of an environment."
Wrightsman said competitive pricing makes The Locker Room a top-choice for patrons.
"There really is something for everyone that can accommodate any budget," he said. "We also have specials every day, so there's always a good deal going on."
The Locker Room has an extensive menu, but Wrightsman said the "mini menu," which includes smaller sizes of different meals, is a crowd favorite.
"We have great mini burgers and pork [sandwiches], as well as a new hand-breaded tenderloin," he said. "We also make all our sauces, like barbecue and ranch, from scratch."
Junior marketing major Cody Edwards frequents The Locker Room for its menu and top-notch customer service.
"The burgers are excellent and really flavorful," he said. "Also, the service has always been fast and full of nice people. I can see why it's so popular."
The Locker Room is open Monday through Saturday from 11 to 3 a.m., and Sunday from 5 p.m. to midnight.
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