‘It’s like a family here’: Longtime customers mark last call for Durty Nellie’s

For the uninitiated, it might have seemed a typical fall Sunday at Durty Nellie’s in Palatine, as football games flickered on the TV screens while customers sat around the bar sipping their favorite libations.

But this Sunday was last call for the venue that for decades defined nightlife in downtown Palatine.

“It’s like a family here, and we’re all sad,” said customer Jen Smith, adding that her memories are tied up with the special staff at Durty Nellie’s.

“I’m sad, because Betty’s the best bartender in the world,” she added, before fellow patrons chanted “Betty, Betty” in honor of bartender Betty West.

Durty Nellie’s first opened at 55 N. Bothwell St. in 1972, then moved to its final address at 180 N. Smith St. in 2003.

Owner Jim Dolezal called the establishment “the heart of this community.”

“We’ve hosted fundraisers, reunions, weddings, bar mitzvahs, celebrations of life, bands, St. Patty’s Day, and the list goes on,” he said.

“We have been reminded over these past few weeks of how many memories have been made here at Durty Nellie’s,” Dolezal added. “We are honored to have served this community and thank you for your support for well over 30 years. On to the next chapter.”

Vernon Hills residents Stephen and Mary Narens visited Sunday to drink one last Guinness and share memories of enjoying bands such as Gaelic Storm on the venue’s stage.

“It’s very homey. It felt like Ireland a little bit,” Stephen Narens said.

Mary Narens remembered taking their kids to learn Irish step dancing in the basement while she and her husband enjoyed a pint upstairs.

Palatine resident Joe Garabed also soaked up the Durty Nellie’s atmosphere one last time.

“This has been my favorite bar for years,” he said. “I couldn’t let them have their last day without me.”

He cherished memories of the “dance club” atmosphere upstairs.

“Every Friday and Saturday night, it was like spring break,” he said.

Customer Brandon Lukas of Arlington Heights brought a camera to capture a few last memories. He recalled the business was started by a couple of commercial airline pilots who named it after a centuries-old pub in Ireland. They sold to Jim Dolezal and his late brother, Mark Dolezal, in 1988.

Palatine Village Council member Greg Langer saluted Durty Nellie’s on his Facebook page.

“Whenever people find out I’m from Palatine, I often hear, ‘I saw (insert band) at Durty Nellie’s’ or ‘I’ve had so many great nights there.’”

The business will be replaced by Big Grove Brewery, which is expected to open next year after a renovation of the building.

szalusky@dailyherald.com