Close Quarters

Close Quarters – the world’s smallest bar – is located at (Map It) 31953 Lake Road in Avon Lake, Ohio. Be sure to confirm their hours by calling 440-933-5217 just to make sure you’re not greeted by a sign on the door that reads, “Gone Fishin’!”

Excerpt from a past edition of OhioTraveler

CLOSE-QUARTERS-AVON-LAKE-OHIt’s all in a name. Close Quarters on Lake Road in Avon Lake, Ohio has been said to be the world’s smallest bar, second smallest bar, one of the world’s ten smallest bars by MSNBC, Budget Travel and others.

That said, for anyone who’s squeezed into the bar, they are better known for their delicious wings and burgers. The fries are pretty tasty too. Oh, and spirits. All of which may be considered some of the best kept secrets in Ohio travel. And for regulars, they’d like to keep it that way. After all, there are only so many seats to go around. No worries, every newcomer is received with open arms. If you do stop in, expect a very friendly atmosphere and be ready to join in the conversation and laughter. The quarters are too close not to. Consider it a private party and you’ve been invited to pull up one of 11 bar stools or 12 seats along the wall where you’re bound to knock knees with those turning out from the bar. Don’t be shocked if your picture is taken and put on the wall of fame.

The space or lack thereof is used well. Walls, ceiling, you name it, has interesting memorabilia and collectibles that can occupy your attention all night. Every nook and cranny of the joint has a surprise and a laugh waiting for your gaze. The bar takes up most of the room but it leaves a little corner for the kitchen and rest rooms are just one skip down the hall.

Don’t be shy, be sure to select an interesting tune from the jukebox and enjoy your time in the neighborhood where if everyone didn’t know your name upon entry, they will all holler it on your way out because you have just become a friend of Close Quarters.

By Frank R. Satullo, The OhioTraveler