Gary Ellis has spent his career at the intersection of hospitality, nightlife, entertainment and fine art. A Hampton University graduate and former brand ambassador for LeBron James’ Lobos 1707 Tequila, he co-founded Bar 44 Sports Lounge in Marietta, Georgia, in 2021 after more than a decade shaping Atlanta’s nightlife scene. Today he runs one of the area’s most talked-about lounges, where Southern hospitality, elevated food and Atlanta culture meet under one roof. Rolling Out Business Exchange sat down with Gary to talk about the journey, the menu and what it really takes to build something that lasts.
What was the moment you knew you were meant to own a restaurant, and what did that leap of faith look like for you as a Black entrepreneur in Atlanta?
It’s kind of full circle now. My first restaurant was a Cru franchise, and I actually bought it from Dennis McKinley. I had lost a job. I went in and was like, Dennis, let me throw some parties until I can find another job, and he looked at me and was like, man, you can own this place. I’m about to sell it.
As soon as he said it, it was instant. It was like, okay, this is the one for me. Somebody’s really gonna give me an opportunity to do something bigger than what I’ve been doing in the past. I just took the opportunity and ran with it and never looked back.
Walk us through three dishes on your menu that truly represent who you are, not just as an owner, but as a cultural storyteller.…