The year was 1995. Three decades ago. “Toy Story” was one of the biggest movies of the year. The Atlanta Braves won their first World Series. And the “Macarena” song – and the silly dance – were a sensation. It was also the year that The Ashburn Pub opened in the Ashburn Village Shopping Center.
If we’re not mistaken, that makes it the oldest bar and restaurant still in operation in all of Ashburn.
“There was nothing else around here then,” said Kevin Bednarz, the Pub’s current owner. “The nearest bars were over in the hotels along 28.”
A little history: The Ashburn Pub was originally opened by Mark Eckert, and it was a Florida Gators bar. Eckert was a big Florida fan, and the original logo was an alligator in a chef’s hat.
Today, there’s no particular team affiliation at the bar other than the local Washington teams – especially the Commanders.
The bar was also modeled after a traditional Irish pub, but you won’t find any bangers & mash on the menu. It’s an American bar through and through.
“We do know how to pour a proper Guinness, though. That’s for sure,” Bednarz said.
To read more about how Bednarz took over and grew the business, and some of the most memorable moments from the past 30 years – click here and head over to the Ashburn Magazine website.
(Images: Ashburn Pub)