New concept to open in former Ernie Biggs space downtown

A newly founded entertainment concept is taking the place of Ernie Biggs Dueling Piano Bar in downtown Springfield.

Ethan Brown said he and wife Hailey are targeting an Aug. 1 opening for Biggs Downtown, located at 312 South Ave. The two also co-own Shot Shack and 417 Pedal Tours.

While the Biggs Downtown name pays homage to Ernie Biggs, the two are separate concepts.

"We wanted something that honored the past with Biggs and something that celebrated our community in downtown, so that's where the name came from," Brown said. "Downtown Springfield has so much potential and so much to offer, and we hope to see more people join us downtown."

Brown said Biggs Downtown would have a full bar and offer entertainment such as concerts, burlesque, drag and theatrical events. Additionally, the concept is planning brunch shows on Sundays. Biggs Downtown's first act will be touring artist Jed Harrelson on Halloween.

Startup costs have been roughly $70,000 to date, Brown said. He declined to disclose the financial terms of the five-year lease rate. The building is owned by Kessler Properties LLC, according to Greene County assessor records.

Biggs Downtown aims to keep the mural painted on the front of the building, but the company is considering changing the name on it to Biggs Downtown in the future. It currently has the Ernie Biggs name and dueling piano players.

Ernie Biggs closed at the space in January 2025, according to past Springfield Business Journal reporting.