Pensacola's Sir Richards bar will return in 2022 with new food truck, patio and memories

Some say the smoke-heavy air and off-key karaoke nights were all part of the Sir Richards experience.

Now as the popular dive bar undergoes a deep renovation, its new owners say that atmosphere will remain when the business reopens in early 2022, though now as a non-smoking facility.

When Pensacola restaurant owners Patti and Derek Sonnen purchased the neighborhood spot at 2719 E. Cervantes St. just months prior to COVID-19, they knew its more than 50-year lifespan would mean it needed a little more attention than just a fresh coat of paint.

The pandemic-related closure became the perfect opportunity to wholeheartedly dive into construction, with the goal to reopen Jan. 1, 2022.

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The Sonnens have been through the restaurant renovation process a few times before, fixing up and taking over what are now O'Riley's Irish Pub locations at 321 S. Palafox St. and at 3728 Creighton Road, along with Mugs & Jugs at 12080 Scenic Highway. Their son, Warren Sonnen, has managed each addition.

Warren Sonnen said with each purchase, the family has strived to hold on to the integrity of the original business, capturing the same vibe and appeal of a place while also still meeting all of the city's codes.

He said the local landmark that is Sir Richards was no different. When the previous owner approached his family looking to sell, they knew that Sir Richards would be in good hands.

"They knew we would still keep it true to the tradition," Warren Sonnen said. "We had no desire to rename or rebrand it."

While some of the keys to that atmosphere will be there to stay, like the twice a week karaoke nights or ongoing games of pool, the renovation process turned out to be a little more "aggressive" than expected.

For example, the carpeted floor became so glued to the ground over time, it took a month to scrape away, he said.

Similarly, the walls also had absorbed so much of the smoky haze that locals had come to know and love, they became next on the list to be replaced.

Any bits and pieces that could be preserved were, such as original mirrors that will be rehung throughout the inside halls.

Warren Sonnen said the place will feel recognizable and familiar to those who were regulars years ago, but his family will be enhancing the old English style of the place. The slightly fancier name of Sir Richard's Public House also will reflect the classier changes being made inside, like the locally sourced antique furniture.

Additions to the physical space are being built on as well, such as an outdoor patio area that will extend seating options for customers.

There also will be an opportunity for patrons to order from a British food truck parked outside. The main offering, a family recipe of fish and chips, will be identical to the classic entrée served at O'Riley's. Other menu items will be available.

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The place will begin to draw a crowd apart from just drinking, but will be a viable option for those just looking to stop by for a bite to eat in the neighborhood.

"I really believe Sir Richards is going to be a highlight for that part of town," he said.

The drinks also will reflect the more sophisticated style with a menu of classic cocktails served in glassware. Despite the enhancements, Sonnen said his family is striving to be competitive with their pricing and be an affordable drink option in the area.

He said the place tends to be remembered for its heavier pours and extra strong drinks, which now will be more tightly measured. But the establishment still will be serving quality drinks in a cost-effective way.

Warren Sonnen said his greatest concern was taking something away from the community for so many years but said the renovations will only help with preserving it. He said he does not see the place going away any time soon.

"There's a lot of people who are passionate about their bar," he said. "There's no end in sight for Sir Richards."

The hours are planned to be the same as the Sonnens' other restaurants, open every day from 11 a.m. to 3 a.m.

This article originally appeared on Pensacola News Journal: Pensacola dive bar Sir Richards planned to open in 2022 with upgrades