Feature Article from The Whitewater Press - Summer/ Fall 2010  www.thewhitewaterpress.com

   By Donna Wright ~ Whitewater Press Staff Writer

~ Downstairs Sports Bar ~

He doesn’t know their names or where they come from. Five older women come once or twice a year to his Whitewater establishment and spend several hours reminiscing and enjoying each other.

Bob Sweet, of Whitewater, owner and operator of the Downstairs Sports Bar & Grill, 204 West Main Street, Whitewater WI, knows he will see them sometime this summer.  “They stay for hours and they’re just the nicest ladies, so sweet,” he said. “They used to spend time together and now make it a point to come back at least once a year.”

Sweet has been behind this bar since 1994, continuing the long tradition of the building’s original purpose.  It’s likely that the five ladies remember the place as the Rathskeller, one of its many incarnations since 1883, when it was built and named the Walworth Hotel.   It is now called, The Landmark.

I can still remember my dad taking me in there in the ‘70’s a couple of times.  Three quarters, a pinball machine and a Shirley Temple would buy him enough time for a cold beer with some friends.

When Sweet remodeled the building, which also includes 18 apartments, in 1998, it was like going back in time though the styles and construction techniques uncovered.  One wall layer was black carpeting, he said.  He and his dad, Al Sweet, completely remodeled the Downstairs Bar area and first floor of the building, along with other upgrades to the apartments.  Sweet’s father continues to be his right hand man maintaining one of Whitewater’s oldest buildings.

In acknowledgment of the Downstairs Pub and adjoining hotel’s important role in Whitewater’s history, it is currently a stop on the annual Whitewater Historic Walking Tour.

Over the years, Sweet has grown very close to his employees and patrons.  “They’re family,” he said. “We just had a reunion and it was incredible to see everybody again, now with husbands, wives and kids.”

Many of Sweet’s employees are students from the University who are working their way through college, so he sees them literally grow up in front of his eyes.  “It was so great to see each other again.  We promised we would do this at least once a year and not let so many years go by.   I feel a lot for the people who come through here and work for me.”

The Downstairs Sports Bar & Grill offers a great menu of entrees and appetizers at affordable prices, featuring Sweet’s famous chicken wings and signature homemade sauces.  “I’ve had people ask me to bottle my sauces,” he said. “Everyone just loves them, especially the mild sauce.”

Every Friday and Saturday there is a live DJ taking requests, so hearing the music you want isn’t a problem.” Sweet says. “He has everything.”

So, come on down the stairs.  You’ll have a good meal at a good price and a good time, too!   Check website for hours.  www.downstairs4fun.com