Marybeth Tolson – Owner, Ole’ Hookers
Marybeth grew up in Lexington and graduated from Lafayette High School. After high school she studied and received a real estate and property management license. Growing up, she watched her mother work hard in hospitality, and she has also been in the service industry throughout her adult life. Marybeth says, “I’ve worked for lots of great places around town including Boardwalk, Austin City and Ramsey’s. I learned a lot about consistency and delegation working there.” Marybeth has owned bars in Lexington since 2000. In 2005, Marybeth and her husband, Jackie B Tolson opened a restaurant in downtown Lexington called Ole Hookers Bar, and as Marybeth would say, “the rest is history. It’s been really cool to watch the trends over the years. Everything is new again!” Its an all-inclusive, sweet and fun spot where you can still get a good drink at a fair price, have some adult conversations and meet some cool people. Ole Hookers Bar hosts karaoke on Mondays and has many fun events like The Mrs. Roper romp or Lobster roll lunch pop ups!
Marybeth says, “My heart is here in the Bluegrass! My family is here. I’ve recently reconnected with some high school friends and I cant wait to really dive back into our friendships!I love old rock n roll and ambient lighting, mid century furniture and original art! I feel so lucky to be in such an artist enclave here. I also have a passion for food. I do miss the kitchen side of things at our spot now (we are just a bar, no food currently). I’m looking forward to the fall, cooler weather and Keeneland! We continue to make plans for the future – we may do a food truck next, who knows! We just have to stay busy, idol hands are the devils work shop!”