The Bywater under new management as of Monday, Aug. 31

Popular outdoor bar The Bywater will undergo a change in management on Monday, Aug. 31, according to a Facebook post by owners Chad and Cate Battles. In a letter to family, friends and patrons, the couple wrote:

Though the Bywater will continue to be around, after these wonderful past 5 years, we will be moving on. We cannot thank you enough for your support and loyalty as we have grown from a tiny hole-in-the-wall bar along the river, to a thriving local business. We could not have done it without you. … Our last day will be this coming Sunday, August 30th, and we would like to invite you to our Farewell Party starting at 6pm. Up Jumped Three will be playing the tunes and there will be a family style potluck, so feel free to bring a side-dish. Let’s raise a glass to the future!

It’s unclear whether the post refers to a transfer of ownership or a change in the parties managing the bar’s operations from day to day.

Cate is unable to comment on the changes at this time.

Here is the full Facebook post:

Family, Friends, and Patrons,

We have some bittersweet news to share with you. Though the Bywater will continue to be around, after these wonderful past 5 years, we will be moving on. We cannot thank you enough for your support and loyalty as we have grown from a tiny hole-in-the-wall bar along the river, to a thriving local business. We could not have done it without you. The both of us have met so many amazing people along the way and created lifelong relationships that we will cherish forever. The Bywater has become a second home for many and you would be hard pressed to walk in and not find a familiar face at the bar….or the Farkle table! It’s these familiar faces that have helped make it a community establishment.

We cannot thank our staff enough, especially Anna Thompson, for her devotion to this place from day one. We cannot sing enough praises. Every employee, past and present, we consider family and are forever grateful for making the Bywater what it is today. We will always remember the awesome “Escape from BeleChere” staff trips, evenings around the fire, and family potlucks. You couldn’t find a better staff than the one we have behind the bar. Thank you for everything.

Over the years, the Bywater has become a special place for many people and families. It’s humbling to know customers have chosen this place to mark important moments in life, from weddings, to wakes, baby showers, birthdays, proposals, graduation celebrations and retirement parties. This will always be “your” place.

Our last day will be this coming Sunday, August 30th, and we would like to invite you to our Farewell Party starting at 6pm. Up Jumped Three will be playing the tunes and there will be a family style potluck, so feel free to bring a side-dish. Let’s raise a glass to the future!

Sincerely,
Chad and Cate Battles

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About Kat McReynolds
Kat studied entrepreneurship and music business at the University of Miami and earned her MBA at Appalachian State University. Follow me @katmAVL

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