Bainbridge Tap transition brings new yet familiar feel to the town

Sunday, November 6, 2016
The Bainbridge Tap, a popular location in Bainbridge, will be seeing new ownership on Nov. 18 with Mark and Dawn Hayden (left) taking over from Jack Watson and long-time owner Janice Ferrand (right).
Banner Graphic/NICK WILSON

BAINBRIDGE -- Owned and operated by Janice Ferrand for more than 20 years, the popular Bainbridge Tap tavern will be seeing new ownership in the coming weeks.

With famous patrons the likes of Indiana Pacers center Rick Smits, professional wrestler “Dick the Bruiser” (William Afflis) and former Indiana Gov. Mitch Daniels, the Bainbridge Tap will be run in familiar yet revamped fashion by soon-to-be proud owners Mark and Dawn Hayden of Roachdale.

The Haydens said in an interview that they had been interested in purchasing the tavern for quite some time, but recently found a real opportunity to do so in July.

“We had our first, candlelight wedding anniversary here,” Mark said, noting in a joking manner that they have been trying to acquire the tavern for almost two decades. “We’ve been trying to take the place off of (Ferrand’s) hands now for 18 years.”

Ferrand, who said the bar has never been closed since its opening, reflected on her years of ownership.

“We’ve had so many good people come through here,” Ferrand said, pointing out a photograph near the counter of a departed friend. “Cy Breason, a good friend of ours, always wanted his red beer -- which was beer with tomato juice, a real ‘bloody Mary’ -- and was with us since day one.”

“And there were times where we wouldn’t have made it without family and friends,” boyfriend Jack Watson added.

Built circa 1912, the building which houses the tavern is in considerably good condition; the address itself has always been a tavern. Jazz, rock and blues bands still frequent the lounge and can be heard most weekends.

“Fridays are always a big night but we’re trying to promote Saturdays, too,” Dawn Hayden said. “It’s a lot of up and down but it’s usually pretty busy on the weekends. We’re going to be open on Sundays soon too to maybe draw in some of the football fans.”

“Now we just have to find time to sleep,” Mark Hayden added.

Ferrand originally purchased the tavern 20 years ago from Joe and Marge App who operated the location for 21 years themselves.

“I told them I would never be here as long as they were,” Ferrand joked. “Before them there were (free-range) chickens around the building.”

With daily food specials and upcoming breakfast specials, the tavern is soon to see a revamping of sorts and is set for a goodbye party on Saturday, Nov. 12 from 9 a.m. until closing.

Former governor Daniels has been contacted and may make an appearance as well.

Set to close on the purchase Nov. 18, the Haydens are excited for the opportunity.

The Bainbridge Tap is located at 109 W. Main St. in Bainbridge.

For more information, visit the tavern’s Facebook page “Bainbridge Tap” or contact Joanna Ferrand at 721-7865.

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