Bob Mendenhall

The year was 2008, George W. Bush was the president, and a new music venue and tavern was born at 430 E. Fifth Street. Their creation story was written up on their early menus: “Bob wanted a bar. Nate wanted to run a business. Lisa wanted Bob and Nate out of her hair. Thus was sparked the idea of a family business. But what could they agree on? Good food and beer had always been a reliable source of numerous gatherings with family and friends. Coupling their strengths and experience, plus the availability of one of Dayton’s historic buildings and legendary music venues, gave birth to: BLIND BOB’S.”

Fast forward to the present, and Bob still has his namesake bar (and can often be found on the patio sweeping up remnants of last night’s party), Lisa takes care of bookkeeping in the quiet of her own office, and Nate is looking to the future of what the next 9 years holds, alongside his AGM Andy Rowe and several members of staff who have been with the business since day one.

General Manager and Owner Nate Mendenhall says that he and his crew put on shows all year long and meet lots of very talented musicians. They then use that information to “pack our anniversary weekend with as much great live music as possible. This year, we’re also going to get some of our favorite draft beers from our first year of operation, which we’ll be serving in special Blind Bob’s cups,” he said.

This year, Blind Bob’s 9 year anniversary runs from Friday, August 25-Sunday, August 27. Friday night bands are Cadaver Dogs, Yardboss, The Jasons, and Red Hot Rebellion! Saturday is Weathervein, The Flips, Pelafina, and Black Sire. They will be wrapping it up Sunday with Lia Menaker, Zack Sliver, Kyla Meainous, and Nolan Taylor.