SALT LAKE CITY — Big Willie’s and Willie’s Lounge, two Salt Lake City nightlife staples, kicked off a new chapter in 2023 under the leadership of new owners. About to enter their third year, the owners are reflecting on what they’ve built and sharing their vision for what’s next.
Married couple Michelle and Patrick Mannos, parents of four, had a longtime dream of owning a bar, which became a reality in 2023 when they took over Big Willie’s, a sports bar and pool hall, and its sister location, Willie’sLounge, known as SLC’s oldest dive bar. They bring experience, vision, and a commitment to preserving the legacy of both community favorites.
“Bars are where people gather,” Michelle said. “They’re where you celebrate, where you mourn, where you just connect. To be a part of people’s lives like that—it’s really special.”
Patrick brings two decades of bar industry experience, while Michelle’s background in finance helps with managing logistics and operations. One of the couple’s proudest achievements has been maintaining continuity for employees and regulars alike and respecting the bars’ legacies…