Llywelyn’s Pub is marking its 50th anniversary with a months-long celebration culminating in a grand Jubilee Bash on May 3. The festivities, supporting local charity Pedal the Cause, will feature weekly events, live music, and the release of a special commemorative beer brewed in collaboration with Schlafly.
Llywelyn’s began as a modest establishment with a Welsh identity, founded by Jack Brangle and Jon Dressel in 1975 at 4747 McPherson Ave. in the Central West End. At the time, the neighborhood was not the thriving district it is today, but Llywelyn’s played a role in shaping its transformation. By the late 1980s, Llywelyn’s expanded, acquiring the adjacent property and adding a dining room while maintaining its original charm. The McPherson Avenue location remained a popular gathering spot for over 40 years before closing in 2018, leaving behind a legacy that lives on through the pub’s other locations across the St. Louis area and Kansas City. In 1997, Webster Groves High School alumni Chris Marshall, Brett Bennett and Scott Kemper took ownership, transforming Llywelyn’s into a full-fledged celebration of all things Celtic while preserving the welcoming spirit that defined its early days.
“Reaching this milestone is a testament to our guests’ loyalty and our team’s dedication,” said Marshall. “We’ve been proud to serve as a gathering place for so many over the past five decades, and we’re looking forward to continuing this tradition in the years ahead.”
Each remaining (the Soulard location closed in 2023) Llywelyn’s location offers a distinct experience while staying true to its historic roots. The Webster Groves pub features soaring ceilings and fireside seating, while the St. Charles location provides picturesque views of the Missouri River from its patio.
The 50th anniversary celebration includes live music, exclusive menu items, giveaways, and a showcase of Llywelyn’s history through photos and stories from the past five decades. April will serve as the highlight of the celebration with a Golden Anniversary Mont” packed with special promotions and events.
Beyond the festivities, Llywelyn’s remains committed to giving back to the community. The pub has supported numerous local charities, schools and events over the years, including the Webster Groves Chilifest. In honor of its anniversary, Llywelyn’s has pledged to raise $50,000 for Pedal the Cause, an organization that funds breakthrough cancer research at the Siteman Cancer Center and Siteman Kids at St. Louis Children’s Hospital. The fundraising efforts will run from April through June, with a series of events and promotions contributing to the cause.
This article appears in March 2025.