Bucks Saloon, a Boystown institution, is closing its doors, but a new bar will takes its place.
Mark Liberson, owner of Hydrate Nightclub, Halsted's and Elixir, has announced that he will open Replay, a retro arcade, at 3439 N. Halsted St.
On Facebook, Bucks regulars lamented the loss of their favorite bar, which outlived many of the neighborhood's earliest businesses. Bucks had announced the impending closure in February but had not announced a closing date. Bucks customers celebrated the bar at an April 14 farewell party.
Liberson said he hopes to honor the Bucks tradition as a local watering hole.
"The history of Bucks is a long one, and what we're going to do is build upon its destination as a place to spend time with friends," Liberson said.
Replay will feature m ore than 25 craft beers, bourbon and more than 20 video games from the '80s and '90s, including Ms. Pac-Man to Galaga, Space Invaders to Donkey Kong, according to a media statement.
"The most exciting new thing really is what's old," said Liberson, referring to the arcade games.
The bar will offer a cocktail menu by Elixir's Danny Quinn and food options from Halsted's.
The space will be refinished from floor to ceiling, said Liberson. It is expected to open by Memorial Day weekend.