Jay County grads open Winchester tavern

For David and Theresa Hopkins, opening a neighborhood tavern has been a dream since their Jay County High School days. After years of talking about it — and a first attempt with Hoppy’s Restaurant — the couple has found their perfect fit in Winchester.

Hop’s Tavern, located at 602 E. North St., opened just over a month ago in the former Anchor Inn building across from Ardagh. With a country-and-western theme, live music and hearty bar food, it’s designed to feel like a friendly hometown hangout.

“When we opened Hoppy’s, we really wanted to be a small-town bar with good food and entertainment,” said Theresa. “Hoppy’s was more of a restaurant that also served drinks. Hop’s Tavern is much closer to what we’ve always dreamed of.”

The décor features cowboy hats, boots and rustic signage that reflect the tavern’s relaxed, down-home feel. The menu offers familiar favorites — burgers, wings, pizza and tacos — along with a full breakfast lineup that includes eggs, bacon, sausage, biscuits and gravy, and pancakes.

Hop’s is open seven days a week from 7 a.m. to 3 a.m. Breakfast runs from 7 to 10 a.m., and the kitchen stays open until 2:30 a.m.

“If you want a hamburger at 2 a.m., we’ll fix it for you,” Theresa said with a laugh.

Daily specials like Taco Tuesdays keep the menu fresh, and food is available for dine-in or carry-out. Delivery currently serves only Ardagh employees — a partnership Theresa said has been well received.

“The folks at Ardagh have been very supportive and great to work with,” she said.

Hop’s Tavern also hosts regular entertainment, featuring local bands, DJs, karaoke nights and games such as Queen of Hearts. A pool table is coming soon, and the couple plans to upgrade the dart board to a more versatile game machine.

“We like to have fun,” Theresa said. “It’s a place where people can unwind, enjoy good food and feel at home.”