Established in 1933
T
he Peacock Alley American Grill and Bar was established in 1933 following the end of prohibition. The Patterson Hotel was a prominent and luxurious hotel that was home to the Non Partisan League and well-known for its continued construction that lasted over twenty years. The hotel was a major hotspot for politicians throughout its history. The lobby of the hotel now houses the Peacock Alley Bar. Its doors opened on New Year’s Day, 1911.
At the time it opened, the seven-story, 150-room hotel was the tallest structure in Bismarck, and would retain this distinction until the new North Dakota State Capitol was completed in 1934. In addition to his business ventures, Edward Patterson was also an amateur boxer. Because of this, the hotel was visited by such boxing legends as Gene Tunney, Jack Dempsey, and Joe Louis. Several presidents had also paid a visit to the Patterson Hotel, including Theodore Roosevelt, Calvin Coolidge, John F. Kennedy, and Lyndon Johnson.
The Patterson Hotel secretly served alcohol during prohibition, and even setup an elaborate alarm system to keep out “unwanted guests”. The hotel also once hosted illegal gambling, and was rumored to house prostitutes. It is also rumored that an underground tunnel once connected the hotel with the nearby train depot. The Patterson ceased hotel operations in the late 1970s, and the rooms were converted into senior housing.
The Peacock Alley is not only a dining and bar establishment, it is also a historic location rooted in tradition. The Peacock Alley of today is a national award winning restaurant that prides itself on serving the most unique cuts of beef and using the freshest ingredients available. Once you step inside the Peacock Alley you cant help but to feel the history. For 80+ years the Peacock Alley has been the cornerstone on downtown Bismarck and proudly displays that history on its walls. You will enjoy good food, good drinks and historic classy ambiance that can not be duplicated anywhere else. Thanks for visiting our website! ~ Dale & Melodie Zimmerman