BLAIR, NEBRASKA (2025 February 7, Friday)
Don Harrold, Writer / Editor
editor@blairtoday.com – Facebook
Blair, Nebraska, is about to witness the end of an era as The Red Brick Bar and Grill, a cornerstone of the town’s dining scene, is officially on the market. Owner Craig Anderson, who has operated the establishment for over 15 years, made the difficult decision to sell the restaurant, marking a potential turning point for both the business and the community it serves.
“I decided I was going to sell the Red Brick,” Anderson stated. “It’s not sold yet, but it’s listed as of yesterday, and we’re going to continue business as usual until a change happens—if it happens.”
A History of Transformation
Anderson’s journey with The Red Brick began when he purchased the property, then known as the New York Bar and Grill. At the time, it was a simple bar with a small grill behind the counter. However, six years ago, recognizing the growing demand for food service, Anderson undertook a major renovation, gutting the building and transforming it into a full-fledged restaurant.
“We were selling quite a bit of food from this tiny little grill,” Anderson recalled. “That’s when I decided to commit to expanding the menu and upgrading the kitchen. We spent about four months rebuilding it to what you see today.”
Anderson was no stranger to the industry, having grown up in a family that owned liquor stores and bars. Although his experience in running a restaurant was limited, his background in business and real estate helped him navigate the complexities of the food industry. He and his wife took the leap into ownership during a slower period in real estate, seeing the restaurant business as an opportunity to build something new.
Challenges and Triumphs
Running a restaurant is no easy feat, and Anderson has had his fair share of challenges. The Red Brick survived industry shifts, stiff local competition, and the unprecedented difficulties brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic. While many restaurants struggled to stay afloat, The Red Brick remained a favorite among Blair locals.
“We have loyal patrons who come in two or three times a week,” Anderson said. “That, combined with a great staff, has been the key to our success. If your employees are happy, it creates a positive atmosphere that customers notice and appreciate.”
Blair’s dining landscape has been dynamic, with several new restaurants opening in the past few years. Despite increasing competition, Anderson has always believed in the power of consistency, quality service, and community connection.
“Every time a new restaurant opens, it affects business temporarily, but we’ve always seen our customers come back once the novelty wears off,” he noted. “If you provide good service, maintain a clean atmosphere, and serve quality food, business will always stabilize.”
The Decision to Sell
Anderson’s decision to put The Red Brick up for sale was not made lightly. While financial considerations are always a factor in business decisions, he emphasized that the primary reason was a desire for change and a new chapter in his life.
“I’ve owned these two businesses for 15 years, and it’s just time,” he said. “Running a restaurant is a lot of work—you’re constantly cleaning, unloading trucks, managing employees, and making sure everything runs smoothly. It’s on your mind 24 hours a day.”
He also owns Georgia’s Tavern, another longstanding Blair establishment, as well as a building on Main Street that he hopes to develop in the future. While Georgia’s Tavern will remain open, Anderson envisions a new, non-restaurant venture for the Main Street location.
“Once The Red Brick is sold and no longer needs my attention, I’ll finally have time to put energy into something else,” he explained.
What’s Next for The Red Brick?
Though Anderson is stepping away, the future of The Red Brick remains uncertain. The sale includes the building, kitchen equipment, and even the restaurant’s name, meaning a new owner could potentially continue the legacy.
“Whoever buys it, it’s their property,” Anderson said. “My guess is it will remain a restaurant since the kitchen is relatively new, but ultimately, it’s up to the new owner.”
One major component that won’t be included in the sale is the restaurant’s menu and recipes. The culinary direction of The Red Brick will be left to its future owner, leaving the door open for either a continuation of its popular offerings or a fresh concept.
Community Reactions and the Emotional Weight of Change
News of the sale has come as a shock to many of The Red Brick’s patrons and employees. Having built the restaurant from the ground up—quite literally—Anderson admits he has mixed emotions about moving on.
“I put my heart and soul into this place. I was there for months during the renovation, tearing down walls, installing flooring, and rebuilding from scratch,” he reflected. “Even now, I get butterflies thinking about letting it go.”
While Anderson remains firm in his decision, he acknowledges that nothing is set in stone.
“You can never say never,” he admitted. “I’ve put a lot of thought into this, but even last night, I was talking to my wife about it and feeling those mixed emotions again.”
Despite stepping away, Anderson will still be a part of the Blair community. He expressed deep appreciation for the town’s support over the years and remains committed to his other business ventures in the area.
“I came into Blair as an outsider, and the town has been great to me and my family,” he said. “There’s always a mix of positive and negative feedback in business, but for the most part, the people here have been incredibly supportive.”
As The Red Brick’s future hangs in the balance, one thing is certain—it has left an indelible mark on Blair. Whether the restaurant continues under a new owner or transforms into something entirely different, its legacy will live on in the memories of those who have gathered there over the years.
Like the lifespan of a well-loved family car, The Red Brick Bar and Grill has carried the community through countless journeys, milestones, and everyday moments. After 15 years, just as a reliable vehicle eventually reaches the end of the road, it’s time for a new driver to take the wheel—or for something fresh to take its place in the garage of Blair’s dining scene.
