The Spar has changed hands after nearly 40 years with the same family. The Old Town tavern briefly closed for a light refresh and reopened Wednesday, Nov. 4, at 4 p.m., just in time for its weekly jazz set. The News Tribune reported the ownership change.
Kathy Manke bought the bar with a friend in 1988 and ran it until the late 2010s. After her death earlier this year, her son, Kris Manke, and granddaughters Rena Manke and Adrielle Flinders continued the family’s ownership with their families. In a social media post, the family said they had found the right local owners and handed over the keys Nov. 1.
The new group includes longtime friends and Tacoma business owners connected to Odd Otter Brewing. The ownership transition had been taking shape for months, and the new owners plan to operate The Spar largely as-is through the end of the year while they consider what comes next.
The tavern has served food and drinks in its Old Town building since 1933. Through changes to the space and its ownership, it has remained a gathering place for regulars and families. For now, the new chapter begins with a light refresh and the familiar Wednesday jazz night.
Read the original News Tribune article here.
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