By James Kent
RUTLAND— There’s a new space in downtown Rutland bursting with warmth, heart, and pride—and it’s called Bailey’s Place. Founded by 21-year-old Faith McClure, Bailey’s Place is the first LGBTQ+ bar and restaurant in the area in over two decades. It officially opened its doors on April 12, and within days had already made an impression on the community.
The venue at 13 Evelyn St. (the former location of the Strangefellows Pub) has been completely transformed into a bright, inviting space. With an inclusive vibe and welcoming energy, it’s precisely the environment McClure and her stepfather envisioned when they first came up with the idea.
“We are a gay space—for the community, by the community,” said McClure. “I’ve been out since middle school. If there was already a place like this when I turned 21, I would have gone there the first chance I got.”
McClure, who worked at Olivia’s Market for five years, credits that job for sparking her love for public service, but it was her stepfather, Fred, now the kitchen lead at Bailey’s, who originated the idea. Driving through the Midwest on a hunting trip, he asked himself what Rutland was missing. His answer? What all of the rural areas he passed through were missing—a gay bar. He pitched the idea to McClure, and she didn’t hesitate: “Let’s do it.”
Together, they built Bailey’s from the ground up. The space needed repairs and renovations, which they tackled themselves—Fred even built the new bar by hand.
“We had to do a lot of tearing out due to old damage… to make it suitable for clientele,” McClure said. “This is for me to run. I am the boss, but he [Fred] is the other half of Bailey’s.”
Named after Faith’s childhood nickname—“Buddha Bailey” —the bar’s name is rooted in joy. “I associate the name with being fat and happy,” McClure laughed. “What better way to make people feel happy than to name the place after that?”
The response from the community has been overwhelming—Bailey’s Place hit capacity—nearly seven times over—during its grand opening. Guests lined up down the street, eager to see what was inside. While McClure asks for patience as they continue building their menu and programming, she’s blown away by the support.
Food and drink are a significant part of the experience, with a menu that’s evolving weekly. “This isn’t set in stone,” McClure emphasized. “We’re attending a food show soon to help expand the menu, especially to meet different dietary needs. But we had to start somewhere.”
Current offerings include McClure’s house-made chili. (“It’s got a little spice, that’s why it’s called F.U. Chili”), burgers, salads, sandwiches, and both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. Events like a Mother’s Day “drag brunch” (21+) are on the horizon.
Bailey’s Place also stands apart by designating itself not just as LGBTQ+ friendly but as a true gathering place for the queer community—and allies too.
“We’re not just a bar. We’re a place where people can feel safe,” said McClure. “Not everyone can feel safe at home, work, or school. We want to be that place.”
With impressive determination, McClure has created something that many in the community have been waiting years for: a visible, vibrant, inclusive space for LGBTQ+ people to gather, celebrate, and just be.
While hours are still in flux during these early weeks, patrons are encouraged to check Bailey’s Place on Facebook for updates. One thing’s for certain—whether you come for the food, drinks, or community, Bailey’s Place is here to welcome you with open arms and open hearts.
The Bailey’s Place bar was built by Faith McClure’s stepdad, Fred, who runs the kitchen.
