People You Should Know: Dan “Boomer” Kettwig

Last Updated on Tuesday, 30 November 1999 00:00 Monday, 04 January 2010 04:39

Dan “Boomer” Kettwig,

Boomer’s Pub and Grub,

Portage, IN

By Mona Dickinson

After owning and operating a successful construction business in Northwest Indiana for 10 years, Dan “Boomer” Kettwig decided he wanted a new business venture.

And on Nov. 1, 2009, Boomer’s Pub and Grub was established in the Portage Mall. The fact is proudly displayed on the wall of the pub.  “I found myself hanging out in other bars and thought, I just wanted to open my own place,” Boomer (as he’s known to everyone) said. “I started looking and knew this building was available, so I decided it was a good place to get my feet wet in the business.” The building, located in strip of the mall that houses several bars, was formerly Hot Shots. Boomer said he did the work and remodeling and painted before opening. The remodeling included new lighted bar and different surround-sound zones, where sports fans can watch different games or events without overlap from the other zone.

“We can have the Bears game, the Colts game and a Nascar race on the different TVs and you won’t be bothered by the other areas,” Boomer said.

He will be the first to tell you he’s all about having a good time. His personal motto, “Now that’s what I’m talkin’ bout,” has become the motto and theme for Boomer’s.

“If people want to crank the juke box up and play it loud, get a little crazy and have a good time, then this is the place to be,” said Boomer. “I’m usually the one to get a little crazy and have a good time, people know me and know that and that’s why they come here.” Besides the atmosphere and daily drink specials, you’ll find a typical bar menu for the grub at Boomer’s. Famous tacos are featured on Tuesdays and Saturdays where they have served over 100 tacos.  The open-faced pizza sandwiches are also pretty popular.  With the priority of having fun, Boomer makes sure his staff shares in this goal. He hired bartenders (a staff of eight) with outgoing personalities and who like to have fun.

“People go out to have a good time and that’s what I wanted to give them here,” he said.

And he says he’ll be the first one up dancing on the bar and getting the party started. Boomer has even been known to put ice along the bar and slide down the bar for a good time.  So how was the transition from construction business to bar owner?  “A little different, I had to learn all about ordering for the bar and restaurant business,” said Boomer. “My suppliers are great, they have really helped me and showed me what I need and how to get going here.”

And what about competition from the other bars along the strip where Boomer’s is located?

“Yeah, all the bars are in competition, but people that come in here, will also stop in at the other bars at times too,” Boomer said. “Each place is different and has it’s own atmosphere.” Boomer said people he knew said he’d never make it in the bar business. To that, he smiles and boasts of his success thus far.  “People are coming in here and having fun. We have different bands and a different atmosphere. Most of all, we have such a mix of customers, all ages, all backgrounds. They really like what we offer,” said Boomer.

He is having so much fun as a bar owner, that he’s already looking ahead to the New Year with new ideas.

“I can see a bigger place down the road, there’s a lot more I want to do now that I’ve got my feet wet in the business,” he says, grinning like a kid in a candy store.

But for now, with the winter weather at hand, the new business seems to agree with Boomer.

“My oldest son works in the construction business with me (Kettwig & Sons) and another son cooks here at the bar,” Boomer said. “And I have time for activities with my two younger boys.” The bar features DJ’s on Thursdays and Fridays and live bands –country, rock or a variety - on Saturdays. There’s also pool and darts and Boomer’s sponsors various local sports teams and leagues.  Boomer’s Pub and Grub, 2522 Portage Mall, Portage, 762-7300.  You can also follow Boomer’s on Myspace and Facebook to find out what’s happening.