Historic hotel bar gets a facelift

The watering hole at the Byng Hotel in Cranbrook has a new owner, a new look and a rocking future

Pete Durning, new owner of the Byng Roadhouse in Cranbrook. — Photo by Kris Dickeson

The watering hole at the Byng Hotel in Cranbrook has a new owner, a new look and a rocking future. Local entrepreneur Pete Durning purchased the 3,000-square-foot bar earlier this year, started renovations in September and opened the doors of the Legendary Byng Roadhouse in mid-October.

“Our Halloween party was the vision,” Durning said. “We had a packed house, great bands and everyone was having fun. That’s what this place is all about.”
Live music is the backbone of Durning’s plans.

“The Legendary Byng Roadhouse is for everyone who is playing in their basement or garage,” he said. “Every band needs a live audience to build their stage presence and create their performance. If the band is good, well that’s great. If not, they will get better. Every band should have the opportunity for a chance to shine. And I’m talking about all kinds of music, including country.”

Durning’s commitment to this concept is apparent, as programmable lighting and an upgraded stage were part of the renovations—which also included a new entrance, hardwood floors, lighting, a marble bar top, refinishing the tables, refurbishing the chairs, staining and painting, a major overhaul on the women’s washroom and a couple of new pool tables. Next on the list is the men’s washroom, the pool room floor and a coin-operated foosball table.

Along with the Legendary Byng Roadhouse, Durning owns 50 per cent of JD’s Diner (the restaurant adjacent to it) with local chef Clayton Walstrom, who co-ordinates the food service to the bar. The menu offers everything from appetizers to salads, burgers, pasta and all-day breakfast.

“I had such good times here at the Byng at the Saturday afternoon jam sessions,” Durning said, smiling. “Some 30 years of memories for me, but people have been enjoying the Byng for close to 90 years. I don’t want that to stop and that’s what pushed me to get into this. I remember when downtown Cranbrook was packed on the weekends and there were crowds on Baker Street. The past few years it’s really died down.

“There are some great bars here, but I want to offer a place with live music on a regular basis in a party atmosphere that is safe for music lovers of all ages.”

The Legendary Byng Roadhouse is open Wednesday through Saturday, with live metal jam sessions Thursday nights and Saturday afternoon jam sessions. Everyone is welcome.