A now-viral video originally posted by popular local account @thatpedicablife on Instagram shows an apparent Henry's Pub employee charging a street hot dog vendor and flipping over his cart in a fit of rage. The employee can be seen yelling at bystanders while chaos erupts in the background. The post claims Henry’s Pub was "completely unhinged" on its final night, "serving alcohol until nearly 3am, yelling at customers, and even attacking a hot dog vendor." The caption goes on to describe the scene as "the wildest downtown scene I’ve witnessed in a while."
The behavior, widely condemned in the comments, casts a shadow over what should have been a farewell celebration for one of the Gaslamp's longest-standing bars. Henry’s Pub responded to the video on its Instagram, acknowledging the disturbing incident and expressing remorse.
"That was not how our last night of business after 25 years should have ended. It’s embarrassing, upsetting, and disgusting. I am truly sorry… Please know that a termination would have been immediate if we were still in operation."
The statement distanced the broader staff from the actions of the individual in the video, stating: "Saying ‘we have learned from this and will do better’ sounds like an out considering we are no longer in business – but it’s true from the staff that does not behave like that."
SanDiegoVille first reported the imending closure of Henry’s Pub in early April, showing Fat Tuesday - a prolific New Orleans-based frozen daiquiri bar chain - was preparing to take over the 618 5th Avenue location. At the time, Henry’s Pub ownership allegedly denied the report.
Now, with the venue shuttered and a replacement incoming, the chapter closes for Henry’s - a spot once celebrated for its live music, family-friendly daytime vibes, and infamous #cluckmoo dish - on a note of controversy and regret.
Fat Tuesday is expected to open at the former Henry’s Pub location by mid-to-late June 2025. For more information, visit FatTuesday.com.
Originally published on May 19, 2025.
