After having disputes with neighbors over the volume of live music, Happy’s Irish Pub is moving down the street to 151 3rd St. in Baton Rouge, where a kitchen will allow the bar to start serving food. The new Happy’s location will also be larger, with 4,500 square feet of space.
The move comes after owner Chad Hughes has faced complaints from different neighbors about the volume of live bands playing at Happy’s. In November 2022, the bar went before the alcohol control board for charges of violating the local noise ordinance. However, the control board and Baton Rouge City Court found the noise ordinance did not specify a decibel limit for noise. While the bar does have its detractors, it is also a popular downtown destination for people seeking live music. Fans of Happy’s also say it provides a laid-back atmosphere and a great selection of drinks at reasonable prices. The current iteration of Happy’s is also popular for its outdoor patio.
The upcoming location used to be home to a Lucy’s Retired Surfers Bar & Restaurant location and that establishment was much more of a bar-restaurant than a live music venue.