‘Maggie May’ Is Gin & Tonic’s Swan Song; Glover Park Nightspot Begins Transformation Into Mason Inn..

GLOVER PARK -- Mirroring its debut, the lush harmonies of Rod Stewart’s iconic ‘Maggie May’ were the last sounds to pipe through Gin & Tonic’s booming sound system on Saturday evening, as “Glover Park’s Tavern” delivered its final swan song to an at-capacity crowd of loyal patrons.

Since it first opened its doors three years ago, the popular nightspot has played host to countless fundraisers, flipcup tournaments, toga parties, and live musical performances. Gin & Tonic’s customers always seemed happy to gloss over the bar’s Spartan décor in favor of the busy dance floor and well-priced drink menu.

And nowhere was such a devoted following more evident than on Saturday night, with hundreds of the District’s young movers-and-shakers braving an incredibly hot and humid evening for the chance at toasting their black-walled late night home one last time.

Beginning today, 2408 Wisconsin Avenue, NW will begin a nearly two month-long transformation into a Southern-themed live music and sports bar named Mason Inn. Come its September opening, the new venue will boast 7 60” flat screen TVs, a 50-foot long oak bar, full seating areas, a newly designed dance floor and performance stage, as well as a brand new air conditioning and plumbing system.

In re-purposing the Glover Park space, co-owner Fritz Brogan will fulfill his original vision for the location when he first took over the space in September 2008.

“It was great to see all of our regulars, friends, and former staff come together for one last night to celebrate the memories of Gin & Tonic and the launch of Mason Inn,” said Brogan.

Assuming Stewart was right about Maggie in singing “you stole my heart, I couldn't leave you if I tried”, we’re guessing the crowds will return in droves.