Given the semi-rural location, there is plenty of room here, Happy Bar sitting in the middle of a parking lot for patrons. Even better, a third, yes third sign can be found directly over the front door, though this one does include the name of the bar but adds the all-important word “Karaoke” to the mix. Walking in, it’s easy to envision weekend karaoke here, Happy Bar’s wood paneling alone creating the best kind of dive bar karaoke vibe. Word to the wise, Happy Bar is cash only and includes an on-site ATM for anyone ill-prepared.
The front room, surprisingly bright given the lack of separation between the low building and the Sacramento sun, features a long bar and two pool tables given ample space along the opposite wall. Seating here is at a premium, most of the space kept clear to preserve the integrity of the pool games that frequent both tables. Stools sit along the bar that looks pleasantly untouched in parts and revamped in others. And while this isn’t a typical decorations-on-every-possible-square-inch dive bar, the area behind the bar is well covered with signage, from classic drinking sayings to framed photos and an M&M’s clock.
A blue aquarium-looking light bar over Happy Bar’s liquor collection reads Bradsons, presumably a holdover from a previous incarnation of this same space. Atop the bright blue pop of color sits a continuation of the M&M memorabilia collection comprised of what look to be home candy vending machines. More prominently, four framed photos of John Wayne cover the wall above the beer cooler’s doors, complemented by another circle photo of The Duke under a mounted bell. Given the location of Happy Bar on Sacramento’s outskirts, the homage feels appropriate to the space.
