The Cellar: Lafayette’s Underground Bar Breathes New Life into Old Memories
Located below Pizzaville USA, The Cellar Cocktail Bar & Lounge is Lafayette’s only underground bar, and it has managed to create an atmosphere that its loyal patrons can’t stop talking about. It’s not just their signature craft cocktails, trivia nights, and live music that make it so special - there’s also a level of nostalgia about the location. Formerly Bisbano’s, a beloved restaurant that was acquired by the Carencro-based Pizzaville USA in 2020, many locals are happy to visit a watering holde that holds so many memories.
Kacey Kling, general manager of The Cellar, knows the importance of maintaining community connections through restaurants and bars firsthand. “I've worked in the food and service industry since I was 15 years old,” she says. “My dad owns a local restaurant, and it's always been extremely attractive to me - the potential connections you can create with regulars, the relationships formed over food and drink, and an atmosphere built on good vibes and tradition - it’s something I'm a sucker for.”
Kacey has channeled her passion for building these connections with patrons in managing The Cellar, and it is clear that her hard work is paying off. Every cocktail served is curated based on customer responses, and she can actually recall patron’s go-to orders from months back. She has the kind of recall only lifers in the hospitality industry can lay claim to. “I can joke with the men and build relationships with the women that come in and out. I’ll remember your favorite drink and the pizza you got six months ago. Your food and drink choices say a lot more than words sometimes.”
The history of the place is equally important to Kacey, as is her own role in solidifying The Cellar’s legacy as a Lafayette destination. “I put my entire self into every detail of The Cellar since I took it over. We have many hopes and reputations to uphold with being Lafayette’s only underground bar and the old Bisbano’s. I am the first woman to run The Cellar, and I take pride in that.”
She says that customers come in who used to visit Bisbano’s during their college days - often decades ago - to relive old memories. Some of these visitors are in their sixties and end up mingling and having drinks with current college students. Different generations mix well at The Cellar. There isn’t any age limit on how to pass a good time at this place. Everyone is welcome.
“I want our atmosphere to continue being timeless,” adds Kacey. “ I see The Cellar growing exponentially with time and patience. What draws our biggest crowds is live music, and I strive to find new and local artists constantly. I'm always reaching out to musicians, brands, and local businesses looking to collaborate and bring the small business world together.”
Check out The Cellar’s website here to peruse their weekly cocktail menu, and don’t forget to follow them @thecellarlaf on Instagram and on Facebook for the latest on live shows, events, and more.
Author: Erin Holden