You're driving down Endicott Street North in Laconia, New Hampshire, and you see a sign that says "Warm Beer, Lousy Food, Good Times." It’s a bit of a head-scratcher, right? Most places are out here shouting about their five-star gourmet experience and craft infusions. But not the Looney Bin. This place is local through and through. It’s the kind of dive bar where the floor might be a little sticky, but the wings are probably the best you’ll find in the entire Lakes Region.
Honestly, the "looney bin laconia nh" is more than just a place to grab a burger. It’s a landmark. Located right across from Funspot, it’s a staple for the biker crowd, the locals, and the tourists who actually want to feel like they’re in New Hampshire and not some sanitized resort.
The Rebirth of the "Bin"
A lot of people don’t realize how close this place came to disappearing. Back in July 2023, during the busy July 4th weekend, a horrific accident happened. A car crashed right through the front of the building. It was a mess. People were hurt, and the restaurant had to shut down for months.
Michelle Watson, the owner, didn’t just give up. The community actually raised over $25,000 via GoFundMe to keep the staff afloat while they rebuilt. When they finally reopened in December 2023, they did a "redo" night for the people who were actually there during the crash. Talk about loyalty. Now, if you look closely, you'll see a row of black bollards out front. They aren't just for decoration; they're there to make sure that never happens again.
What the Locals Order
If you walk in and ask for a kale salad, you might get a funny look.
The menu at the Looney Bin Bar and Grill is unpretentious. They’ve got these "Nutty Nachos" that are basically a mountain of chips, peppers, and onions. But let’s talk about the wings. They’re famous for them. They have this "Sweet Heat" sauce that’s sticky and just spicy enough to make you reach for your beer, but not so hot that you regret it later.
Then there's the Shot Menu. It's legendary. If you’re feeling brave, you can join the "Drunken Loon Hall of Fame Shot Club." You have to try 50 out of their 60 different shots. Don’t worry, they limit you to five per day. No one is trying to get you hospitalized.
Why Looney Bin Laconia NH is the Heart of Bike Week
If you visit during June, the vibe changes completely. It’s Laconia Motorcycle Week, and the Bin becomes ground zero for bikers. The parking lot overflows with chrome, and the outdoor seating area—which is surprisingly "cute" according to some reviewers—is packed.
It’s loud. It’s crowded. It’s exactly what a biker bar should be.
- The Crowd: A mix of old-school riders, locals who’ve lived in Laconia for 40 years, and families coming over from Funspot.
- The Vibe: High energy, live bands on the weekends, and a staff that actually seems like they want to be there.
- The Food: Don't miss the $1 Wing Thursdays (dine-in only) or the $5 Burger Tuesdays. Prices like that are getting hard to find in 2026.
Some of the staff, like Amy and Katie, have been there since the place opened in 2005. That kind of longevity is rare in the restaurant business. It says a lot about how the place is run.
Navigating the Space
It’s not a massive place. Inside, it’s small and can get dark, which is exactly the aesthetic they’re going for. If you’re claustrophobic or it’s a beautiful 75-degree day, head outside. They have a recreational area with games like bocce ball and "jarts."
Wait times can be a thing. Especially on Friday and Saturday nights. They explicitly tell you on the menu: "Please have patience, it'll be worth the wait!" Since everything is cooked to order, they aren't slapping frozen patties on a microwave. It’s real food.
Planning Your Visit
If you’re coming from out of town, here’s the lowdown on the logistics. They’re located at 554 Endicott St North, Laconia, NH.
Current Hours (always double-check these):
- Monday & Tuesday: Closed
- Wednesday & Thursday: Noon – 9pm
- Friday & Saturday: Noon – 11pm
- Sunday: Noon – 7pm
The "Warm Beer" part of their motto? It’s a joke. The beer is cold. The "Lousy Food" part? Also a joke. But the "Good Times" part is 100% accurate.
If you want the full experience, go on a Thursday for the wings. Just make sure you get there early because the locals know the deal and they will beat you to the best tables. Also, keep an eye out for their merch. Their t-shirts and hoodies are actually pretty cool and they’ve been around for over 20 years now.
👉 See also: Karol Bagh Explained: What Most People Get Wrong About Delhi’s Iconic Hub
Actionable Next Steps
If you're heading to the Lakes Region, put the Looney Bin on your list for a late lunch. Check their official website for the live music schedule before you go, as bands usually play on the weekends during the summer season. If you have food allergies, don't be afraid to mention them; the owner is known for being particularly careful with gluten-free options and safety. Finally, make sure to bring some cash for a tip—the staff here worked hard to bring this place back from the brink, and they're the real reason the "Bin" has such a soul.