Northwest Springfield bar rebrands

A northwest Springfield bar is rebranding.

Bizarre Bar: West Patio is now doing business as Sidewinders: A West Side Dive Bar, according to a news release. The 2535 W. Olive St. bar's name change became effective Feb. 27, and a renaming launch party is scheduled April 17, said Amy Temple, director of operations for Bizarre Bar.

“Our west location has always had its own personality – divey and a bit rough around the edges, a true staple of the west-side Springfield community,” Temple said in the release. "Rebranding as Sidewinders lets us lean into that identity in a way that feels authentic and aligned, while honoring the history of this place and making sure it keeps making it.”

Owners Dave Onescu and Will Kluempers opened what's now Sidewinders in September 2024, followed by Bizarre Bar: Gallery & Grill in downtown Springfield in December 2024, said Temple. Sidewinders operates in 1,500 square feet, while Bizarre Bar is 4,000 square feet, she said, noting both operate on lease agreements.

The Sidewinders name was selected through community engagement efforts, including a public vote and in-person ballots, according to the release.

Sidewinders’ amenities include a rotating selection of appetizers and small plates with lunch offerings to come in the warmer months, as well as pool tables and darts.