For the last 16 years, Bourbon Street has been one of the centerpieces of University Heights and a key to the redevelopment of that neighborhood’s business district. Bourbon Street was founded by Ted Buettner, Sr., a local attorney, and David Heinen, the current owner of Shooters. The site was the former location of Pecs, which is now located in North Park and owned by Buettner’s wife and son. Together, Buettner and Heinen designed the New Orlean’s look to the property complete with shuttered French doors, wrought-iron trimmed balconies and a beautiful landscaped courtyard centered around a lion’s-head fountain. In 1999, Bourbon Street was purchased by Bob Lehman and Tom Felkner. The two brought new energy to the property, renovating, updating and expanding the bar into what is seen today. However, the physical property is just a part of what makes Bourbon Street special. Since taking ownership four years ago, Lehman and Felkner have transformed the bar into a many-faceted social center for the GLBT community. Not only can you have drinks with friends while keeping an eye out for that elusive new love, but you can also listen to great live music, you can play Fabulous Bingo, you can sing-a-long to showtunes, or shoot a game of pool and toss a few darts.

Bourbon Street is just as active during the day as during the night, but in a different way. The bar sponsors sports teams in soccer, football, basketball, bowling, darts, pool and softball. It is one of the main sponsors of GLBT arts, helping support Diversionary Theatre, the various choruses and Outfest. The bar is a major sponsor of Latin Pride and Ebony Pride. Mama’s Kitchen, Homestart and the San Diego Human Dignity Foundation Bourbon Street also has a serious side when it comes to the advancement of LGBT civil rights. In 2000, it was the headquarters of the San Diego County fight against the anti-gay Prop 22. And it is currently the headquarters of the San Diego chapter of American Veterans for Equal Rights, which is seeking to lift the ban on gays in the military. Within the past few years, the bar has hosted U.S. Congresswoman Susan Davis, U.S. Congressman Barney Frank, San Diego Mayor Dick Murphy, State Assemblymember Christine Kehoe, District Attorney Bonnie Dumanis and City Councilmember Toni Atkins. Of special note is the fact that presidential hopeful Gov. Howard Dean has visited Bourbon Street twice, demonstrating his commitment to the LGBT community.

Bourbon Street always keeps looking toward the future, exploring ways to continue better serving its customers and its community. The bar is proud that is has been named “Outstanding Bar” for each of the past four years by the Nicky Awards. Most recently, it became the first gay bar to advertise on a major network, CBS. The bar’s goal is to live up to the words written this past July in Out magazine about Bourbon Street: “The place to play. Always packed. Always fun.”