Law and Order: The Downtown Culture Shift

For decades, the two hours between 1 and 3 a.m. were the economic fuel for downtown Johnson City's nightlife. At the multi-level bar and music venue, Capone's, that window accounted for a hefty chunk of their weekend revenue. When the Johnson City Commission enacted a sweeping policy shift, citing public safety concerns, and moved the final drink sale two hours earlier, the message was clear: Adapt or die. The decision wasn't just an inconvenience for patrons, but it was also a financial bullet aimed squarely at the heart of the business, forcing the owner to effectively problem-solve and reclaim the night. 

Ordinance 4925-25, commonly referred to as late-night alcohol sale hours, passed at the Johnson City Commission meeting held on Aug. 21, according to the city’s website. It’s been around three months since the change, and George Leonard, the bar’s owner/operator, said, “We're still refining our strategy, experimenting with new ideas and adapting to see what resonates with our crowd.”  

It has been almost 20 years since Leonard took ownership of the bar, but his love for Capone’s began from a distance. Capone’s is housed in an architecturally stunning building fit with a 1920s-inspired theme, with high ceilings and multi-level social spaces.  

“It's the building itself that sets the tone. Its unique character and historic charm created an atmosphere unlike any other. We've always loved the building, even before it was ours,” George said. The building isn’t the only thing that captures the heart of George’s wife, Kim. 

With a bubbling personality, Kim Leonard says watching the connections between patrons blossom is the most rewarding part for her.

“Strangers meet at Capone’s, share a drink, and over time, form lifelong friendships. We've actually had people who have met here, get married here. Do you know how many babies and weddings Capone’s has called?
People meet here all the time,” she said.

The change in alcohol sale hours isn’t the first obstacle the Leonards have overcome. Almost six years ago, COVID-19 changed business models completely and adaptation was, again, necessary.  

“The pandemic was a major hurdle. It taught us resilience, the importance of pivoting quickly and the value of leaning on our team and community,” George said. “The experience keeps us optimistic and adaptable as we navigate through our new challenges.” The positives, negatives and everything in between, during this time, equipped the Leonards to see this journey through. 

Capone’s isn’t the only business affected by the ordinance. Johnson City’s website states, “Any business with a license for on-premises alcohol consumption will be impacted.” The businesses in the Downtown District have, historically, worked together for the success of the businesses. Patrons often find themselves visiting several places on one outing; business owners know this and want to elevate the experience. 

As the downtown area faces policy changes and the implementation of new businesses, George Leonard is confident in the relationship between Johnson City’s downtown business owners.

“Capone's is a cornerstone of Johnson City's vibrant nightlife, drawing visitors from surrounding areas who explore –not just our bar– but other local businesses too,” Leonard said. “We've been part of downtown growth over many years, and we're proud to contribute to a thriving community where people come to eat, drink and enjoy.”  

East Tennessee State University students are also feeling the effects of the ordinance. A senior student says Capone’s was her first introduction to Johnson City’s nightlife years ago. She details how it was easy to stay downtown until 3 or 4 a.m., enjoying the crowds, food and music. On her most recent attempt to go out in downtown Johnson City, she was met with standstill lines at some bars and empty dance floors with inattentive bartenders at others. By 12:30 a.m., she was situated in a restaurant turned bar and found that the kitchen was closed, and alcohol was only being poured for 15 more minutes. 

“As I sat there, I remembered the earlier years of downtown Johnson City, when I wasn’t even allowed to drink yet, and how I was so excited to turn 21. Now, at 22, the last call changes seemed to have happened just in time to change my Johnson City nightlife experience,” the student said about her night out.

Many students share this sentiment, along with alumni who travel back to the area occasionally. One ETSU alum remembers nights out with his fraternity brothers, enjoying the crowds and mingling with other students. He recalls the experiences from undergrad as lively and entertaining. After moving away from the area, Johnson City is on his list of places to visit because of what the city felt like and meant to him. Now, almost four years post-grad, the undertones of the night feel different for him. 

“It feels a lot more chaotic and unhinged than it used to be, especially late at night,” he said about his most recent outing in downtown Johnson City. He describes a tone shift in the crowd, like a buzzkill, when 1 a.m. rolls around. 

The late-night alcohol sale hours ordinance, put in place citing safety concerns, is changing the culture of downtown bars. It is normal for the college-aged crowd to head downtown around 11:30 p.m., hop from bar to bar and stay out until the lights come on early in the morning. With the shortening of alcohol sale hours, routine norms like this are bound to change. Business owners must find ways to adapt to the new culture while trying to pump life back into the crowd. There are many questions to be asked and answered, and some changes are already occurring. 

The Leonards began their game plan by securing additional licensing to sell non-alcoholic and THC beverages. Adapting around the ordinance, which doesn’t require the bar to close, means that Capone’s is leveling up in other ways. 

“We're shaking things up. We're hosting earlier events and expanding our weekly lineup. Wednesdays feature country, swing and line dancing lessons, followed by open dance with a mix of country and rock. Thursdays are now jazz nights, which are gaining traction,” said George.

“We've also added a standard standout bacon ranch burger to the menu and rolled out food and drink specials for happy hour. It's a work in progress as we adjust after 17 years of success to meet the new challenges,” Kim added. She explains that the goal is to make Capone’s the type of bar where everyone can find something. 

Public support can benefit Capone’s in crafting their services for the masses. 

“Following our Facebook and Instagram, engaging with our posts, sharing our events, even if they're not your thing, helps spread the word for us,” Kim said.

Downtown Johnson City continues to serve its patrons, the doors to Capone’s remain open and The Leonards are in it for the long haul. 

“Come experience the unique vibe at Capone’s. Our welcoming atmosphere, lively entertainment and great people make it special," they said. “Whether it's live music or learning to line dance, as our motto says: eat, drink and be entertained!” 

For more information on upcoming events, visit here.