Council OKs bar license for new club in location with troubled history

By WVUA 23 News Reporter Joseph King

A new business operating out of a space forcefully vacated by the city after numerous complaints now has its bar license and is opening Friday.

On Tuesday, the Tuscaloosa City Council unanimously approved the license for Spades Restaurant and Lounge, located next in the 1700 block of Culver Road in West Tuscaloosa, next to Hay Court Apartments.

The restaurant got its business license in October after a 6-1 City Council vote, with the lone nay coming from District 1 Council Member Matthew Wilson. At the time, Wilson said he was concerned because the bar formerly in that location, Good Times Club, was shut down by the city after numerous concerns and complaints from residents.

On Tuesday, Wilson told the council, Tuscaloosa Mayor Walt Maddox and Spades Owner LaQuitan Toney that he still had concerns about operating hours.

But Toney said he’s confident there will be no issues.

“I’m actually excited about getting all seven votes this time,” he said. “I appreciate brother Matthew Wilson, and I’m just glad to get the opportunity and chance to bring a new business to the West side of Tuscaloosa.”

Because Spades has a bar license, it will close at midnight Sunday through Thursday and at 2 a.m. Fridays and Saturdays.

Spades’ grand opening is Friday, Dec. 10 at 5 p.m.