Iron Pig's Prohibition-Era Bar Opens
Iron Pig Smokehouse's prohibition-era themed bar in Gaylord, MI just opened after being COVID-suspended, operating Tuesday-Saturday 4-10pm with online reservations. The spot features a secret "BOOTLEGGERS" menu and is drawing major social media attention with 437 likes and 6,547 views. It's combining historical theming with modern Instagram-worthy presentation for a unique dining and drinking experience.
The new speakeasy-style bar at Iron Pig Smokehouse carries a theme rooted in the restaurant's recent history of challenging state-mandated shutdowns. Owner Ian Murphy became a public figure for his refusal to close the Gaylord establishment during the COVID-19 restrictions in 2020 and 2021, framing his stance as a fight for his business, family, and employees. This defiance led to a protracted legal battle with the state of Michigan. The Michigan Liquor Control Commission suspended the smokehouse's licenses and permits in December 2020 for violations of the emergency orders, which included offering in-person dining and failure to enforce mask mandates. The restaurant's motto became "Risk it for the Brisket!" as it continued to operate, gaining support from patrons who traveled from across the state. Murphy treated the suspended liquor license as a "badge of honor" and even sold merchandise related to his cause. Ultimately, court rulings favored Murphy, finding that the state had unconstitutionally delegated legislative power to the executive branch. These legal victories paved the way for the full restoration of the Iron Pig's licenses and the eventual launch of the new Prohibition-era themed bar.
