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Country music star Bailey Zimmerman surprised fans Thursday night when he made an unannounced stop at J.J. Foley’s Cafe — and picked up the tab for the entire bar.
Zimmerman stopped by the South End Irish pub after performing a sold-out show at TD Garden as part of his “Different Night Same Rodeo Tour.” When the singer walked into the already packed bar, the crowd erupted as patrons realized who had just arrived, according to a statement from J.J. Foley’s.
The night took another unexpected turn when Zimmerman announced he would cover the entire bar’s tab, the pub said.
“Bailey’s the real deal,” said Mike Foley, owner of J.J. Foley’s, in the statement. “He came in and wanted the best Guinness in Boston — and we were happy to deliver. Next thing you know he’s taking photos with everyone, talking with the crowd, and picking up the entire tab. That’s the kind of guy he is.”
Foley said the moment reflects the welcoming atmosphere that has made the historic South End bar a popular stop for visiting musicians and performers, including country star David Nail.
The surprise appearance also comes just as J.J. Foley’s prepares to launch its annual St. Patrick’s season celebrations. The festivities begin Saturday, with a kickoff party marking the pub’s 117th birthday and the unofficial start of Boston’s St. Patrick Day celebrations, the pub said.
Foley said spontaneous moments like Zimmerman’s visit are part of what makes the bar special.
“You never know who might walk through that door,” he added. “That’s Boston nightlife at its best.”
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