Shreveport, October 24, 2025
News Summary
Fatty Arbuckles, a bar in Shreveport, Louisiana, is relocating after two decades in the Red River District. Owner Chase Boytim cites safety concerns and a decline in the area’s vitality as key factors driving the move to a larger venue at 205 Wall Street, which will offer new features and enhanced security measures. The new location aims to revitalize interest in the district while promising a better experience for patrons.
Shreveport’s Fatty Arbuckles to Relocate Amid Safety Concerns and Growth Opportunities
Shreveport, Louisiana – After over two decades in the Red River District, Fatty Arbuckles bar will relocate to a new venue, driven by concerns over safety and the promise of new opportunities. This decision, announced by owner Chase Boytim, comes as the bar has become the last of the original businesses in the area.
Fatty Arbuckles has occupied a 600-square-foot space since the Red River District’s inception, establishing itself as a staple within the community. However, the landscape has changed, as many restaurants, coffee shops, and retail establishments have closed their doors over the years, leading Boytim to express frustration over the current security situation.
Boytim has raised alarms about the perception of crime in the area, particularly citing issues related to a persistent homeless population. He has brought these concerns to the city council on several occasions in the past two years, advocating for improved safety measures. Responding to the heightened anxiety regarding staff and customer security, Boytim has already shortened operating hours for Fatty Arbuckles, closing earlier than usual.
Despite these challenges, Fatty Arbuckles has thrived as a vibrant venue, featuring live music events and attracting well-known acts. The decision to move to a larger location at 205 Wall Street, formerly Ernie’s bar, marks a new chapter for Boytim and the establishment. The new venue will offer features such as an outdoor stage, accommodations for food trucks, and the introduction of a “beer garden” concept.
To enhance security at the new location, Boytim plans to employ off-duty law enforcement officers on weekends, providing an added layer of safety for patrons. The larger venue also gives the bar the potential to extend its operating hours, with plans to close at 2 a.m. to mitigate late-night incidents that have plagued the current location.
Boytim is awaiting a vote from the Metropolitan Planning Commission to extend his new patio, a decision expected on November 5. He anticipates opening the new Fatty Arbuckles location in November or early December, with concerts already lined up.
Even as he prepares for the relocation, Boytim plans to retain his original space in the Red River District. The area will be transformed into a new concept under a different name in partnership with another entity. Boytim believes that this move will significantly improve Fatty’s prospects, emphasizing that his motivation has always been passion rather than profit, especially following the challenges faced during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Fatty Arbuckles has garnered a reputation for its extensive selection of fine whiskeys, particularly bourbons, and Boytim is excited about the potential to revitalize interest in the Red River District through his new venture.
Key Facts About Fatty Arbuckles Relocation
- Current Location: Red River District, Shreveport
- New Location: 205 Wall Street
- Original Establishment: Opened 22 years ago
- Size of Current Venue: 600 square feet
- Operational Hours Change: Shortened hours at current location, potential extension at new venue
- Security Measures: Employment of off-duty law enforcement on weekends at the new venue
- New Features: Outdoor stage, space for food trucks, beer garden
- Expected Opening: November or early December
- Pending Votes: Metropolitan Planning Commission vote on extended patio expected November 5
Background Context
The decision for Fatty Arbuckles to relocate comes in light of Boytim’s observations and frustrations with the evolving dynamics of the Red River District, where several businesses have closed, and safety concerns have risen significantly. The establishment has managed to weather the storm during the pandemic, retaining its loyal customer base and continuing to showcase live music consistently.
Boytim remains committed to enhancing the appeal of both his bar and the broader district as he transitions to this new phase.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Fatty Arbuckles relocating?
The decision to relocate is driven by both frustration regarding security and new opportunities.
What new features will the new Fatty Arbuckles location offer?
The new location will feature an outdoor stage, space for food trucks, and plans for a “beer garden” concept.
When is the expected opening date for the new location?
Boytim anticipates opening the new location in November or early December.
Key Features Overview
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Current Location | Red River District, Shreveport |
| New Location | 205 Wall Street (formerly Ernie’s bar) |
| Unique Features | Outdoor stage, food trucks, beer garden |
| Operational Changes | Potential operating hours until 2 a.m. |
| Security Measures | Off-duty law enforcement on weekends |
| Expected Opening | November or early December |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Shreveport-Bossier Advocate: Fatty Arbuckles to Move
- Wikipedia: Shreveport
- Bossier Press: Free St. Fatty’s Day Block Party
- Google Search: Fatty Arbuckles Shreveport
- Shreveport Times: Sister Wives Visit Bar
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Christine Brown
- Shreveport Times: Inside Fat’s Oyster House
- Google News: Shreveport Restaurants
Author: STAFF HERE SHREVEPORT WRITER
The SHREVEPORT STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREShreveport.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Shreveport, Caddo Parish, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Mudbug Madness Festival, Red River Revel Arts Festival, and Independence Bowl. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Shreveport-Bossier Chamber of Commerce and Shreveport Regional Arts Council, plus leading businesses in gaming, healthcare, and energy that power the local economy such as Horseshoe Casino, Ochsner LSU Health, and Atmos Energy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBatonRouge.com and HERENewOrleans.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Louisiana's dynamic landscape.
