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Political hotspot Tom’s Tavern set to reopen
When Arizona Cardinals President Michael Bidwill heard Tom’s Tavern was up for sale in September 2010, he decided that someone had to step in to carry on the restaurant’s traditions. Owner Michael Ratner was struggling with pancreatic cancer, and the tavern, which had served as a popular meeting place for politicians since 1929, was in danger of closing.
Ratner, Tom’s Tavern owner, passes away
Longtime restaurateur Michael Ratner told his wife, Terry, that in his final weeks he wanted to impart everything he had learned in his life to family and friends. "A lot of people say this, but I watched him do this," Terry said.
Historic Phoenix tavern for sale as owner’s health declines
Tom's Tavern, a local hotspot among politicians, businessmen and lawyers, is up for sale, owner Mike Ratner said.
Popular eatery for political power brokers celebrates 80 years
In 1993, a handful of notable politicians gathered in the backroom of a small diner in downtown Phoenix to hammer out a deal that would allow Native American tribes to operate casinos on their land in Arizona. The politicians at the table included state Attorney General Grant Woods, Gov. Fife Symington and U.S. Interior Secretary Bruce Babbitt.
