(Atlantic) The Atlantic Area Chamber of Commerce Ambassadors visited The Elbow Room on Thursday, December 4th to welcome the business as new Chamber members and to learn more about the long-standing history of the establishment and its owners, Zach and Christine Blanchard.
Located at 19 E 3rd Street in Atlantic, The Elbow Room is a relaxed and welcoming bar with decades of history in the community. During the visit, Zach Blanchard shared the story of how the establishment began as Irv’s Elbow Room, named after its original owner, Irv Lehman. Zach’s mother, Marilyn Blanchard, began working at the bar in the 1950s and became a fundamental part of the day-to-day operations. In the late 1970s, Marilyn took over the business, and following Irv’s passing, she purchased the building in the early 1990s, solidifying the Elbow Room as fixture in Atlantic’s downtown.
In 2021, Zach and Christine fully purchased the business continuing the family legacy. Zach shared with the Ambassadors that the experience of owning the business has brought him immense personal growth and a renewed sense of purpose. With that purpose has come a strengthened commitment to creating an environment that is both relaxed and welcoming place where patrons feel at home.
The couple is known for their generosity, often cooking meals “for an army” and bringing them to the bar to share with patrons who may not have family to spend holidays with. Zach noted that the business is thriving, and he looks forward to giving back to the community that continues to support him and his family.
The Elbow Room is open from noon to 2:00 AM, seven days a week, and offers beer, wine, liquor, soft drinks, energy drinks, and more. The establishment also features live performers, a juke box, pool table, darts, and slot machines providing a fun and comfortable atmosphere for all who walk through its doors.
