For about 40 years, locals headed to the Tick Tock Lounge at 2602 E. 10th Street to toss back a couple of cold ones, shoot pool, meet their neighbors, and relax. A couple of years ago, the Tick Tock closed its doors, leaving yet another empty building. But about a year and a half ago, Tammy Bellamy Jones and Wanda Goodpaster decided that it was time to invest in an eastside icon, and bought the place. They put $160,000 into the building, plus its rehab and start-up costs. In addition, the East 10th Street Civic Association, which encouraged Jones and Goodpaster to take over the building, provided technical assistance and a $6,000 matching facade grant to rehab the exterior of the building.
The result of all the hard work and persistence, the new Tick Tock Lounge is now open, and better than ever. The pool tables are gone, but the friendly feel of a neighborhood bar and grill is still there. The new menu features Yellow Fin Tuna Steak, and homemade everything, and a unique selection of signature drinks that highlight infused rums and vodkas, plus locally brewed beers.
Jones is a Tech graduate and is delighted to be back in the neighborhood where she grew up. An experienced bar owner, Jones is happy that all the sweat they’ve put into the Tick Tock is appreciated by everyone who’s set foot in the bar. “The regulars from before have come in and been really happy with the changes. She’s also been amazed at the help and support she’s received from the neighborhood. “I’ve never felt so loved in my life!” she said when she first did a “soft” opening of the bar in April. The residents in the neighborhood around the bar, including Woodruff Place. Cottage Home, and St. Clair Place have been coming in regularly — and bringing their friends. The grand opening night May 31st was packed with local business owners and locals — many who walked or biked to the bar.
Tammi Hughes of the East 10th Street Civic Association said that the revival of the Tick Tock, inside and out, is a significant development in the continuing success of East 10th Street businesses. She pointed out that new businesses have opened in the past year, including Tim & Julie’s Another Fine Mess, and others plan to open soon, including an ice cream parlor and coffee shop. The Clifford Corners development will soon see new condos, and a mix of retail and residential spaces.
“This is a great space,” Hughes noted. “It’s perfect for neighbors to hang out in.”
