Issue date: 6/22/09 Section: News

BMO's, the newest bar on Northgate, is between Loupot's and Texas Aggieland Bookstore. BMO's replaced The Library, which closed due to a drop in sales.

BMO's bar has replaced The Library, between Loupots and Texas Aggieland Bookstore, on Northgate.

BMO's, a primarily rap-oriented two-story bar, has two plasma televisions and a 96-inch projection screen.

"When there isn't a game on, we always play music," said bartender Monisha Parikh. "The upstairs is open depending on the crowd, and there is a large dance floor and bar with a couple of televisions as well."

BMO's stands out among other establishments on Northgate because of its structure, Parikh said.

"Unlike other places on Northgate, BMO's is open every day from 8 p.m. to 2 a.m.," said Parikh. "There has also been discussion of planning western and karaoke nights."

BMO's owner Barry Ivans is also the owner of The Corner bar and grill, on the corner of College Main St. and University Ave.

"Ivan has owned and run the Corner for many years now," Parikh said, "so he knows how to run a reputable bar."

BMO's is still new to Northgate, but is becoming more popular every weekend, Parikha said.

"BMO's is just starting to get the name out," Parikh said. "Up until recently it has been known as a chill bar where you probably would know someone, but that is changing and that is our goal to get the name out."

BMO's also serves as a venue for student organizations; Beta Tau Omega, a social and service Asian-interest fraternity used the facility to host its rush party.

BMO's service is great, and the management is professional, said senior biomedical science major and Beta Tau Omega member James Sun, and Beta Tau Omega plans to come back.

"All the employees were nice," Sun said.

BMO's predecessor, The Library, faced criticism in 2005 due to allegations of discrimination.

However, the allegation of racism was not a factor in the establishment closing, said Costa Dallis, owner of The Library.

Sales had slowed down, and the time of the trendy lounge/dance club had passed, Dallis said.

"Forecasting sales in College Station is like predicting election results," Dallis said. "Sometimes it makes sense, sometimes not."

The closure of The Library was in preparation to sell the real estate, Dallis said.

Continued...

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