Caskey's Bar & Grill, across the street from legendary Lucky Lou's and within walking distance from the University of North Texas, will be opening soon.

Recent Denton business closings this year aren’t deterring entrepreneurs from bringing these abandoned spaces back to life. With Komodo Loco set to open in the old Flatlanders spot, Backyard on Bell moving into the old Ken’s Produce lot, Game Changers trying to get their feet on the ground at the previous location for Hailey’s, the support for these new businesses and desire to support local commerce is unstoppable.

Caskey’s Bar & Grill treats us to a soft opening this weekend, beginning Friday October 7. The space was most recently inhabited by Hickory & Fry, a bar concept that lasted for a little over a year. With an abrupt change in ownership and continuous shifts in management, the ability to bring something more reminiscent of the slower pace of the square fell short of its efforts. The owners behind Caskey’s are taking their time and putting a lot of energy and thoughtfulness in the creation of the bar and seating area.

It’s not all about the ambiance either, it’s about the people behind the concept. Between the stacked team of owners, there are collectively more than 30 years of experience in the Denton bar and restaurant scene. The group includes talented players like Casey Glenn, business partners Mitchell Hooten, Gayla and Clint Caskey, and one of the main investors being Charles and Brenda Gloor who currently own II Charlies. This team of all-stars has a desire to support local, and that runs deep through the bar staff, cocktail and beer offerings, and soon to be released food options. This team is working tirelessly toward bringing something different and exciting that takes us away from the fast-paced vibe of Fry St, the same old beer and shot specials, and dive bar energy. (Note: we live for dive bars).

"The atmosphere is a huge separation from your standard Fry St dive joints," Glenn says. "We have a hand built copper bar that myself, Mitchell, and Ergo (a local favorite jack of all trades) built to start out our decor,” he continues, talking about the beautiful bar top that immediately draws your eye as you enter the softly lit bar. “We then built a custom box for our beer cooler made out of wood and copper as well. All the lighting is in place using old Edison bulb to offer a dimmer and more cozy experience." With 3 garage doors to bring in the Fall air and promises of 60’s soul serenading us through the speakers, Caskey’s is looking to be our next favorite study spot, especially once those delicious whiskeys come in.

Denton native Chris Beasley is just as pumped as we are, "I am really excited about the relaxed, chilled vibe I am getting there," he says. "I think it will be a place you can go to get away from the normal hustle and bustle of Fry St, maybe just listen to some Ottis Redding and have a drink."

Using this soft opening to work out any kinks, they are keeping the cocktail offerings on the simple side, with a tap wall featuring local favorites like Armadillo Honey Please, Deep Ellum Blonde and the Easy Peasy IPA, Austin East Ciders selections, and a delicious stout from Lakewood Brewing so there is a little something for everyone. With promises of an extensive whiskey list to come, and a food menu that will fulfill all your fry cravings, we have only the best to look forward to from the newest addition to Fry St.   

Caskey's is located at 1206 West Hickory in Denton, Texas.

Photos by Brian Doore
Header image design by Sara Button