Step back in time at Magoon’s

By Ryan Scroggins

The stresses of finals week and the holidays can leave some students with a case of the blues. Magoon’s Famous Delicatessen has unique décor, live music, great food and a full bar that will help take the December blues away. Located a bit off the beating path in downtown St. Joseph, Magoon’s is one of the city’s best kept secrets.

Walking into Magoon’s is like walking into a time warp. The historic building, located at 632 S. 8th Street still has all of its original fixtures. From the original red and black checkered floors, to the shiny red booths, the feel of the bar is very unique. Sitting at the 1930s bar, the vast collection of memorabilia around can really bring you back to another time.

“I like to share my collection of St. Joseph memorabilia and nostalgic brewaria from the past and present,” said owner Barry Woodhall.
Woodhall’s collection fills all the shelves and wall, and if asked, he is happy to share what he knows about the collection. Bar signs, historic glassware, decanters, paintings and historic pictures are among the décor.

“It’s a museum, restaurant and the best venue in town,” Western alumnus Drew Ames said. Ames referred to Woodhall as a curator of his own exhibit.
As for the music, Woodhall likes to bring in lots of local talent. Wednesday through Saturday nights live bands take the stage. Tuesday nights, local musician and artist Colby Walters hosts an open mic night. Everyone is invited to jam on Tuesdays. Music starts at 9 p.m. and cover is collected at the door for some bands. On weekend nights, Magoon’s is a great place to catch a great blues or jazz band.

Magoon’s atmosphere is created by the people that go there. Artists, musicians, professionals, students, bikers, farmers, right on down to the regular joe, make the customer base of Magoon’s almost as interesting as the décor.

“I love Magoon’s mainly for the atmosphere, its super laid back,” senior Spanish major Todd Long said. “No matter how busy it is, no one is pushing past you.”

“Only the cool kids go there,” Ames said.

He explained that once you’ve been there you’ll understand.

Magoon’s has more to offer than great music and memories of times past. Ben Magoon’s original recipe chili is served daily, along with other deli sandwiches and soups, much like it was when Magoon’s opened in 1918.

Ben Magoon, the original owner, moved his deli to its current location in 1930. For many years, the delicatessen prospered in downtown St. Joseph until it closed in 1980. Woodhall reopened the deli in 2007, keeping as much authentic as he could.

For more information about Ben Magoon’s Delicatessen or entertainment schedules visit www.benmagoons.com or search Ben Magoon’s on MySpace.