(Loving Living Local) – You’d be hard-pressed to find anyone in Shreveport-Bossier who doesn’t know Chase Boytim—and even harder-pressed to find someone who doesn’t love him. Beyond elevating the region’s craft cocktail scene, he is a constant fixture at local festivals and galas. It comes as no surprise that his flagship bar, Fatty Arbuckles, was named one of the 38 Best Bourbon Bars in America by USA Today for 2026.
This USA Today distinction is no small feat. The selection process evaluates quality and consistency, but places equal weight on the overall customer experience and community vibe. It honors venues that go beyond pouring a stiff drink to foster genuine camaraderie—the exact hallmark of Boytim’s appeal, and the driving force behind his recent expansion into a larger entertainment venue.
What started as a typical college bar has transformed into an elevated craft cocktail destination. “The bar has evolved as I have evolved,” Boytim says. That evolution includes chef-driven menu items tailored to his personal palate, ranging from next-level BBQ to hand-pulled ramen and Wagyu hot dogs.
Boytim remains deeply grateful for the community’s unwavering support—from the challenging days of the pandemic, when he personally delivered pre-mixed cocktail jars to local doorsteps, to his newest space, which continues to expand alongside his growing passions.
As Fatty Arbuckles (known simply as “Fatty’s” to locals) continues to set the benchmark for local nightlife, one thing remains clear: Chase Boytim isn’t just serving great drinks—he’s building the very spirit of Shreveport-Bossier…