Local Interest

Suds and A Sign of the Times

By Victoria Schaft , January 28, 2022 0 Comments

Suds Maguire’s Bar and Grill, located on West Bagley Road, offers a unique experience. In addition to the friendly service and great food, patrons enjoy a modern atmosphere with a rustic and historical touch. Kenny and Katie Kuhn opened Suds in 2014, but its history goes back to the early 1980s, and pieces of this past exist today within the walls of the tavern.

The original saloon was a two-story house on the corner of Bagley and Lewis Roads in Olmsted Falls and was owned by Kenny’s Uncle, Charlie Tuma. Eventually, he was forced to close his doors due to a project to widen Bagley Rd, and the building was raised in 1995. However, Kenny says he “practically grew up there,” and never forgot the great memories and the stories people shared about the place.

In 2014, Kenny and Katie converted an old warehouse into their own version of Suds Maguire’s, but they still make sure to keep the legacy of the old Suds alive. They acquired the original sign from Uncle Charlie, who had kept it in his basement all those years. The old sign is now displayed above the bar area. Furthermore, the namesake of Suds Maguire’s is framed and memorialized on the wall. A family friend and local artist had created a character named Suds Maguire, which provided the inspiration for the name of the saloon. Three pieces of artwork include this character hanging on the left-hand wall of the restaurant.

A family friend and local artist had created a character named Suds Maguire, which provided the inspiration for the name of the saloon.

Another special feature of Suds Maguire’s is the outdoor patio, which is delightfully dog-friendly. In fact, furry companions are treated like celebrities. “We kinda make them famous,” Katie says. A picture is taken of the dog and is uploaded onto Facebook and Instagram with the pet’s name. Kenny and Katie are also proud supporters of Animal Rescue Friends (ARF) and dedicate portions of their profits to donate to ARF and their cause.

Less cute and fluffy were the challenges that Covid posed to the community. However, Kenny said, “the whole neighborhood pulled together,” and supported Suds Maguire’s through an impressive amount of take-out orders. However, even after the lockdown ended, Kenny and Katie felt their private party room wasn’t being utilized enough. They decided the space could be better repurposed as a restaurant of its own. Due to their love for good Mexican food and perfect margaritas made from scratch, they created Ghost Pepper.

Be sure to look for the old sign and the artworks of Suds Maguire on your next visit. Bring a date, your family, or your furry friends. For patrons who observe the Lent season, Suds Maguire’s will be providing a special menu to include various fish and pierogi selections beginning March 2^nd, 2022. Or if Mexican is your flavor of the day, indulge in gourmet tacos and spirits at Ghost Pepper next door.

Written By

Victoria Schaft

Victoria Schaft earned a BA in English from Cleveland State University in 2021. She graduated summa cum laude and is a member of the National Society of Leadership and Success. She is an emerging writer in both fiction and nonfiction. She enjoys designing jewelry and has an immense appreciation for the arts and history. Victoria also enjoys outdoor activities (except in the winter). She resides with her husband, a proud fourth-generation Berean, and their Siberian Husky who enjoys outdoor activities (especially in the winter).