How the Basford family's unexpected journey created a welcoming community hub

It's a Wednesday night at Back Then Bar and Grill in Cary. The room is buzzing with energy as Jeannie Basford, dressed in a sparkling red shirt, greets each table, introducing herself as "Mama." She points to her gold statement earrings spelling "Ma" on each earlobe. "I'm everyone's mama," she says.

Back then Bar and Grill | A welcoming atmosphere

Jeannie is the mother of Tony Basford, who shares ownership of Back Then Bar and Grill and PLUS Dueling Piano Bar in downtown Raleigh with his wife, Larissa. Tony takes the stage and the crowd cheers as he welcomes them. "Here tonight, it doesn't matter if you're black or white or Spanish, straight or gay or trans, left or right," he says. "All that matters is that you're a good person who has come here to have a good time with us tonight!"

The crowd cheers as Tony takes to the piano and begins to play Elton John's "Saturday Night's Alright for Fighting."

An unexpected journey | How the Brasford family became the owners of Back Then Bar and Grill

Tony and Larissa Basford found themselves owning Back Then Bar and Grill completely by accident during the Covid-19 pandemic. Although the business initially struggled, they were approached by someone they had never met before who offered them the opportunity to take over. Within a span of a few hours, they became the new owners. This unexpected venture not only provided them with a new business opportunity but also allowed Tony to finally give his father, who had been working as a mechanic for years, a chance to retire. Additionally, it gave Tony's mother, who had been a stay-at-home mom, a chance to be actively involved.

"If this didn't do anything, but just make enough money to pay for itself, there's no value that you can set on the family dynamic seeing mom and dad where they're at right now," Tony says.

A family-owned Cary NC neighborhood restaurant

This family-oriented business combines a bar atmosphere at night and a family-friendly atmosphere during the day. While they also own the largest dueling piano bar in America, they bring a taste of it to their Cary location every Wednesday.

Tony's musical journey began at the age of thirteen, and he learned to play multiple instruments by ear, with no formal music reading skills.

"I am not smart enough to read music, but if you hit play and I hear 30 seconds of it, I can memorize it and chart it out in my mind," he says.

Attendees write song requests on slips of paper and set them into a bucket resting on Tony's piano.

"At the beginning of the night, we're playing 'My Girl' and 'Brown Eyed Girl.' And at the end of the night, we're playing 'Wop.'"

Community driven

Mama beams with pride for Tony as he performs. She mentions that Tony has always radiated this energy and positivity. He doesn't drink himself, but has no issue with anyone who does. Tony's dedication extends beyond running the bar; he actively engages with the community, speaking to teachers at charter schools, and inspiring young students to pursue their passions without turning to substances. His positive energy and uplifting personality shine through, creating a safe space not only for entertainment but also for personal growth.

A place to create memories

Through their unexpected journey of ownership and unwavering commitment to creating memorable experiences, Tony and Larissa have transformed Back Then Bar and Grill into a place that radiates love, happiness, and family. At Back Then Bar and Grill, every visit is an opportunity to embrace the magic of togetherness, guided by the power of unexpected opportunities and the love of family.

Back Then Bar and Grill, located at 107 Edinburgh South Drive, Cary, NC 27511, boasts over 50 TVs and offers the NFL ticket for sports enthusiasts. With opening hours from Sunday-Wednesday 11:00am-12am and Thursday-Saturday 11:00am-2:00am, Back Then Bar and Grill welcomes guests to immerse themselves in an atmosphere characterized by warmth, joy and the dedicated pursuit of shared moments. PLUS Dueling Piano Bar, the largest dueling piano bar in America, is located at 510 Glenwood Ave, Raleigh, NC 27603. It is open Friday and Saturday from 6:30pm until close.