Benny’s is owned by brothers Rory and Rudy Colwell and Jason Jacobson. David Flaherty, the owner of Nestory, is also a partner at the Machesney Park location.
They want Benny’s @ Nest to be a relaxed everyday hangout spot, whether you’re inside watching a game or playing slots or enjoying summer weather on its front patio. There will also be open mic nights, live music on weekends and a several special events centered around music and food trucks throughout summer and early fall.
Benny’s @ Nest will have two food trucks in front of its bar daily — one that serves tamales and another featuring barbecue, the owners said. You can also order and bring in food from any other surrounding establishments.
The bar has large garage-style glass doors that open to the patio space.
“People want a place to enjoy the sunshine,” Rory Colwell said. “When the sun is shining, they don’t want to be inside.”
The drink menu ranges from upscale whiskey, tequila and bourbon to a $1 Busch Light. There are also specialty shots, mixed drinks and other beers.
“We’re an everyday working man’s, working woman’s bar. We keep prices down.” Rory Colwell said. “We can’t cater to everybody, but we try to be pretty broad that we can handle most people whether their tastes are pretty expensive or if they’re taste is just a beer.”
“We’re very big on making sure that the establishments are clean and you feel comfortable,” Rudy Colwell said. “When you walk in, we want you to feel like you’re at a nice place.”
Hours will be 10 a.m. to 2 a.m. Monday through Friday, and 8 a.m. to 2 a.m. Saturday and Sunday
The first special event is Benny’s Rockin’ the Park and is slated for May 25. It will feature live performances from ModiFiRe, Dead Man’s Hand and Audiodrive. There will be other special events throughout the summer, including Bike Night in partnership with Harley Davidson and other live music events.
