About The Justice Pub
The Justice Pub is a downtown Jacksonville tavern in the historic Hutchinson–Suddath Building at 315 East Bay Street (www.jaxdailyrecord.com ). Opened in spring 2018 by bar entrepreneur Ian Ranne, it transformed the old “Mark’s” nightclub into a quirky, legal-themed dive bar. Its logo even bills it the “Justice For All Public House,” and the interior is decorated with murals of Lady Justice by local artists (www.jaxdailyrecord.com ) (www.jaxdailyrecord.com ). The venue seats roughly 40–50 people indoors (www.jaxdailyrecord.com ) (with space for standing and dancing), making it an intimate live-music club rather than a large concert hall. True to its name, The Justice Pub serves only beer, wine and mead – no hard liquor is served here (news.wjct.org ) (jaxexaminer.com ) – which makes it stand out from most bars. With its vintage brick walls, art-lined panels and game tables (darts, pinball, etc.), it has quickly become a popular local hangout for 21–40 year-olds interested in live music and craft drinks.
Events and Programming
The Justice Pub regularly hosts live entertainment, especially on Thursday through Saturday nights (www.indieonthemove.com ). You’ll find a very eclectic lineup: local rock, punk and indie bands; hip-hop and DJ sets; acoustic singers; open-mic nights; and even burlesque or themed parties. Past event listings show everything from underground hip-hop showcases to punk-rock tribute nights. Many performances are free or carry a low cover charge (often under $10) – larger concerts may require tickets, but most events are announced only on social media or local event calendars. In short, the programming is driven by local artists and community groups, making each night unique and often very lively for fans of music and arts.
Tickets and Booking
This pub does not have a traditional box office. For major shows, tickets (if any) are typically sold through local event sites or by promoters, and usually must be purchased in advance online or at the door. For most live music nights, there is no need to pre-buy tickets – you can arrive at the door and pay any cover charge on arrival. The Justice Pub often sells out popular events, so the best strategy is to follow the venue’s announcements and arrive early. There is no clear ticket-resale system; all promotions are done via the pub’s social media or community event pages.
Seating and Layout
The Justice Pub’s interior is laid out like a classic dive bar. The rectangular main room features a long bar along one wall and high-top tables, bar stools and a few couches scattered around (www.jaxdailyrecord.com ). Near the opposite end is a “game area” with pool tables, dart boards and vintage arcade games, which can be moved aside when the DJ spins records or bands set up a dance floor (www.jaxdailyrecord.com ). The venue is general admission – there are no reserved seats – so it fills on a first-come basis. For music shows, the best views are usually closest to the front (adjacent to the stage or performance area), but those who want to mingle or relax tend to stay near the bar or seating by the walls. If watching sports events, multiple large TVs and two projectors are positioned around the room (www.jaxdailyrecord.com ). Since it can get loud during concerts, light coverage of tables and a few seated areas (back couches and side tables) provide quieter spots.
Getting There and Parking
The Justice Pub is centrally located in downtown Jacksonville at 315 E. Bay St (corner of Bay and Liberty), just across from the old Duval County Courthouse (www.jaxdailyrecord.com ). It’s within walking distance of Hemming Plaza and other downtown attractions. For drivers, on-street metered parking is available along Bay Street and nearby streets (meters run roughly $1–$3 per hour), and several nearby public garages charge around $5–$6 per day (en.parkopedia.com ). The JAX Center Garage (1 W. Bay St) and city garages a few blocks away are convenient. Jacksonville’s JTA buses also run along Bay Street – for example, the downtown Route 1 stops at Bay & Main and Bay & Jefferson – and the Jacksonville Regional Transit Center (bus hub) is just a short walk away. Rideshare services or taxis can drop off and pick up directly in front on E. Bay St.
Inside the Venue
When you enter The Justice Pub, you’ll find a relaxed dive-bar atmosphere. A security/ID check is standard (it’s strictly 21+), but otherwise entry is casual. Bright police-blue and gold accent stripes, neon beer signs, and the Lady Justice mural create a unique vibe. The service typically involves a long wooden bar serving draft beers, wines and bottled meads; bartenders are known to be friendly and knowledgeable. There is no full kitchen – at most you’ll find simple bar snacks (peanuts, pretzels, etc.) – but patrons often order take-out or use nearby food trucks before or after shows. The Pub provides free Wi-Fi for guests (local.yahoo.com ). Restrooms are located to the side/rear of the main room. Space is limited: there is no formal coat check, so large bags may be discouraged. Merchandise (like T-shirts) is uncommon, though band merch may be sold by performers during concerts.
Nearby Amenities
Downtown Jacksonville offers plenty of nearby options. For pre-show dining, spots like Cowford Chophouse (steakhouse on Laura St), Dos Gatos (Mexican eatery on E. Bay), or Burrito Gallery (tacos & burritos near Hemming Plaza) are just blocks away. Craft breweries such as Bold City Brewery and Intuition Ale Works have taprooms on adjacent streets. There are also sandwich shops, coffee cafes and pizza joints a short walk from the pub. Several bars and lounges line Bay and surrounding streets – for example, The Volstead (speakeasy cocktail bar) and Barley Republic (brew pub) – ideal for a drink before or after your visit. The Sheraton/Hyatt hotel complex is about 5 blocks west if you’re staying overnight. Late-night transportation options include rideshares or downtown jitneys, and even after-hours restaurants (like fast-food or 24-hour diners) are a 5-10 minute drive away.
What Makes This Venue Special
The Justice Pub’s charm comes from its quirky concept and local-community feel. Unlike chain bars, it has a strongly defined character – the justice theme is everywhere, from courtroom posters to glassware – but it never feels gimmicky (www.jaxdailyrecord.com ) (www.jaxdailyrecord.com ). The repurposed 1910-era Hutchinson–Suddath warehouse space adds historic character (notably, the original brick facade and pressed-metal cornice remain intact) (www.metrojacksonville.com ). Owner/manager Ian Ranne (a DJ himself) has crafted a “hipster dive bar” vibe that emphasizes comfort (plush couches, warm wood tones) and art (walls painted in blues and golds). Local patrons say they come for the inclusive atmosphere: “regulars” of all stripes – lawyers from nearby offices, artists and musicians, city workers and students – mix freely. Another unique point: the only cocktails are wine- or mead-based (like the house “Judge” cocktail) (jaxexaminer.com ), which is rare among bars. Over the years this pub has become a beloved spot for emerging bands and creative crowds, so it’s often mentioned in “best of Jacksonville” music-bar lists. Simply put, artists and audiences appreciate The Justice Pub as a friendly downtown hub where everyone, from “judge” to “skater,” can come together for live music and good beer.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The Justice Pub is wheelchair-accessible with a step-free entrance and ADA-compliant restrooms (local.yahoo.com ). Age policy: 21 and over only (valid photo ID required). What to bring: A valid ID, your phone, some cash (and card, most places accept credit too), and earplugs if you’re sensitive to loud music. Dress code: Casual attire is fine – no special dress code. When to arrive: Doors usually open around 4pm on weekdays (www.restaurantji.com ) (depending on event nights), but live shows often start around 8pm. For popular shows, arrive early – once capacity is reached they may stop letting people in. Allowed items: Small bags/backpacks are OK but may be checked. Outside food (take-out) is tolerated since the pub has no kitchen, but outside alcohol is not allowed. Insider tip: Follow The Justice Pub on social media or event listings for surprise pop-up shows or holiday parties. Patrons say the best experience comes from going when they expect music – for example, the “A Knight At The Pub” trivia/rock nights or themed DJ parties are crowd favorites. Be friendly to the staff (they know all the regulars by name), and don’t be surprised if the owner himself might spin a record or chat you up over the bar.
What are the opening hours of The Justice Pub?
The Justice Pub typically opens in the late afternoon and stays open late. A recent listing shows it operating Wed–Fri from 4pm to 2am, and Saturday from 4pm to midnight (www.restaurantji.com ). It’s closed Sunday–Tuesday. (Always check ahead, as hours can change.)
Where do I park at The Justice Pub?
The busineess is downtown on East Bay Street. Street parking is available (meters are usually $1–$2/hour in the evening), and multiple city garages are nearby. For example, the JAX Center Garage on W. Bay St or the Duval Street lot are only a few blocks away. Downtown garages charge roughly $1–$3 per hour (about $5–$6/day) (en.parkopedia.com ). Ride-sharing drop-offs on East Bay are also convenient.
Is The Justice Pub wheelchair accessible?
Yes. The venue is listed as accessible for wheelchairs (local.yahoo.com ). There are no steps at the entrance, and facilities (bathrooms etc.) meet ADA standards. Let the staff know if you need assistance.
Does The Justice Pub serve liquor?
No – The Justice Pub does not serve hard liquor. When it opened, it was specifically licensed for beer and wine only (news.wjct.org ). So you’ll find a strong selection of craft beers, ciders and wine, plus specialty cocktails made with wine or mead (for example, their signature “Judge” cocktail) (jaxexaminer.com ), but no mixed drinks with spirits.
Is there a cover charge or tickets for shows?
Most nights at The Justice Pub are free or have a very small cover. Casual live-music nights often let you pay at the door (if at all). Occasionally larger promotions may sell advance tickets, but there’s no traditional box office. Generally expect $0–$10 cover, depending on the act. Popular shows can sell out, so arriving early is wise.
Is seating reserved or general admission?
The Justice Pub is general admission. There are no assigned or reserved seats. When you arrive, you can sit or stand wherever you like on a first-come, first-served basis. Early arrivals usually get the best spots, especially for live shows.
What type of drinks does The Justice Pub serve?
The bar focuses on beer, wine and meads. Expect a rotating selection of local craft beers on draft and in bottles, plus wines by the glass/bottle and some ready-to-drink wine coolers. They also make specialty cocktails using wine or mead (for example, a mead-based “Judge” cocktail is one signature item (jaxexaminer.com )). No soda fountain or kitchen means cocktails are limited to what can be made from wine/beer. Snacks (like peanuts or pretzels) may be available at the bar, but no full meals.
Can I buy tickets in advance for Justice Pub events?
Advance tickets are rarely needed or offered. For typical shows, you simply pay the cover at the door. On the rare occasions of a big-ticket band, the promoters might sell tickets online or at a nearby box office. The safest approach is to watch The Justice Pub’s official social media or local event listings for any ticket links ahead of time.
Is The Justice Pub family-friendly?
No. The Justice Pub strictly enforces a 21 and over policy due to its liquor license. Children under 21 are not allowed inside, even for early evening events. Everyone entering must show valid photo ID.
What is the capacity of The Justice Pub?
Seating capacity is modest – roughly 40–50 spots (www.jaxdailyrecord.com ) inside. However, the room fits additional standing room on the floor. In total the venue capacity is well under 100. Because it’s small, shows often sell out when popular.
What kinds of events does The Justice Pub host?
The Justice Pub is known for live music and entertainment. You’ll find local bands (rock, punk, country, etc.), DJs spinning hip-hop and electronic music, themed parties (karaoke, trivia or costume nights) and periodic open-mic or poetry jams. Since its opening it has attracted a diverse program – anything from burlesque cabaret to reggae nights can pop up. There are no comedy nights or big corporate shows; the focus is on grassroots music and community events.
Does The Justice Pub offer Wi-Fi?
Yes. Free Wi-Fi is available for patrons (local.yahoo.com ). You can get online at the bar or seating areas while you enjoy your drink.
Are pets allowed inside The Justice Pub?
Aside from certified service animals, pets are not allowed. The Justice Pub is a bar and live music venue, so outside animals or pets are not permitted inside the premises.
Is smoking allowed in The Justice Pub?
No. Florida law prohibits indoor smoking in bars. The Justice Pub follows these rules, so you cannot smoke inside. (There is no covered outdoor patio.) You may step outside to smoke if needed, but inside is smoke-free.
