Group of men opens Frontier Lounge in Brownsdale

For several years, Brownsdale businesses have come and gone, but one group of men may have what it takes to make a little place thrive in a small town.

During the summer, Kevin and Dan Linbo, Steve Morgan and Dean Braaten began a joint business venture when they revamped the Keg Bar in Brownsdale — now the Frontier Lounge. They know customers will be in for specials during the weeknights.

“Over in Brownsdale, we call it therapy hour,” Kevin joked about locals coming in for happy hour.

Kevin always wanted to purchase the building, as the previous owner had always joked that it was for sale. Kevin said he’d frequently enter the place and throw his check book on the counter, ready to make friendly offer.

However, Kevin said every time he tried to purchase the bar, the owner would be reluctant and joke that he already sold it. Since the owner passed away his wife decided to sell the building, and Kevin and the group of men were quick to snag the opportunity.

Kevin, who grew up in Hayfield, is familiar with the area and the people, and he also owns a bar in Grand Meadow and Utica. Starting another business venture was exciting to him and the others.

“I’m kind of a people person, so it’s kind of fun,” he said, and added he enjoys being busy owning his own businesses. “That kind of keeps me hopping.”

After gutting the facility, re-roofing, reflooring and remodeling, the men opened the Frontier Lounge at the beginning of June. Since then, they’ve been happy with the results.

“It’s been above expectations, really,” Kevin said.

Though the previous bar had seen its fair share of slow days, the group has big plans for the new business, with pool tournaments, poker tournaments, DJs and occasional bands. Furthermore, Kevin said they plan to transition to a bar and grill by serving a lot more food.

In the meantime, the group will enjoy visiting with the customer base of which has shown support for the Frontier Lounge

“It’s been very good to us,” Kevin said.