Legendary Rock Island Bar Closing After Decades of Music

After 50 years of working in the bar, restaurant, and nightclub business, RIBCO owner Terrence G. Tilka is calling it a career. “After plenty of discussions with family, friends, past and present employees, it’s time to call it a career,” Tilka said in a press release.

Tilka's career in the bar business began when he was attending St. Ambrose University. He had moved from Hammond, Indiana to attend the school in 1974, and he hasn't left the area since.

“When I told my dad what I was going to do after college he wasn’t too happy,” Tilka said, “That was until I told him I was naming my first bar O’Meara’s Pub, which was my mom’s maiden name, then he changed his tone a bit.”

At just 21 years old, Tilka purchased Glynn's Tap on State Street in Bettendorf, becoming the youngest licensee in the state of Iowa. He renamed the bar to O'Meara's Pub. Later, he would go on to open a second location - Pat McGuire’s with his friend Mike Shouse.

He then bought the Dubuque Street Brewing Company in Iowa City, and eventually, Rock Island Brewing Company. Now, he's hanging it all up to enjoy retirement.

“It’s been an honor and a privilege to be a part of this community for over 50 years,” Tilka said, “I’m proud of my children that I’ve raised here in the QC, I’m proud of the work we’ve done, and I’m proud of the music and entertainment we’ve brought to the area. Thank you for all of your support, and last but not least, I want to thank all of the people that I’ve worked with in this community, my employees both past & present…including all three of my children who have all worked for me at some point in their lives.”

“Cheers to you, Quad Cities,” Tilka said.

Be sure to celebrate an amazing weekend of live music with Tilka and and his staff on December 1st and 2nd at RIBCO.

Grateful Dead tribute band, The Schwag, RIBCO’s longest running band is set to play both nights, with each show being different from one another.

The show begins at 9 p.m. each night with tickets set at $10 at the door for ages 21+. RIBCO will remain open until the Christmas Holiday.