If you are interested in prohibition days, you might like to check out the Big Belly Brewery in downtown Orlando. While they no longer brew beer there, the place has quite a bit of history. In the 1920’s J.E. Nicholson and Bernard Dreyfus ran a speakeasy above the clothing store on the first floor. To gain entry into this popular illegal watering hole, a code name of “Bernie’s Buffet Club” would be spoken and patrons would climb through a second story window just to get in!
Today, Big Belly is still located on the second floor between Chillers (below) and Latitudes (above) showcasing the same brick walls, oak barrels and antique fixtures reminiscent of the speakeasy. You’ll find plenty of patrons bellying up to the bar, especially on Wednesday nights when the bar features prices similar to the 1920’s – nickel beers! “Nickel Beer Night” is a tradition that brings out locals and visitors week after week.
The bar features televisions throughout and is a great place to watch any sporting event. College games, professional games and some of the lesser-known sports can be viewed. Big Belly is also known as a good place to throw a birthday party or hold a private function. Be sure to check out the wall that has the history of the brewery – that is, if you’re into history.
Their food is classic bar food and consists of burgers, buffalo chicken, sandwiches, nachos. Be sure to order early as their kitchen does not stay open late at night. They also offer specials like buckets of beer and 25 cent wings on certain game days. For more information about Big Belly, check out the Church Street Bars website: churchstreetbars.com. Big Belly is open every night of the week.
When you’re not in downtown Orlando enjoying a game at Big Belly’s, check out another prohibition era hot spot in Central Florida – Capone’s Dinner & Show. Their gang will take you back in time and you’ll enjoy singing, dancing, bellying up to a huge dinner buffet as well as unlimited drinks. After the show, you’ll be walkin’ the walk and talkin’ the talk, just like Bernie, J.E. and of course, Al, did back in the 1920’s.
Last Updated on January 19, 2018
