Mama Roux Bar Americain & Grill opened in March 1994 on the near East side (a few blocks south of Brady Street). The first advertisement we have located is from June 1994, but the bar held anniversary parties in March 1995 and 1997 and thus we assume it had opened early in March 1994.

However, local LGBT periodicals don't list the bar until mid 1994. The first listing and advertisement appeared in "In Step magazine" issue vol.11-11 dated June 2-15 1994, saying "There's a New Bar in town". The first listing in "Quest magazine" was in issue vol.1-15 dated August 24- Sept. 7 1994, reading "Food served continuously, Closed Sundays. Features Classical music and contemporary jazz. Available for private parties." The local free LGBT periodical, "Wisconsin Light" newspaper, made its first delivery of papers to the bar on October 13, 1994, to the attention of Jim Rodell (believed to be the owner).

The exact meaning of the name intended by the owner is not known; however, 'Mama Roux' translates as "Ginger Mom", and the "Bar Americain" refers to the masculine French version of 'an American' bar. Considering the Cajun food specials on its menu, the bar and restaurant can be presumed to have been influenced by New Orleans bars and cuisine.

Situated about mid-way between Brady Street and North Avenue, and just south of the Humboldt Street bridge across the Milwaukee River, Mama Roux was a popular local-bar destination for east siders; it advertised as "Your Eastside Alternative". The bar was somewhat roomy and thus rather popular for birthday parties and similar gatherings.

The bar also had a very good restaurant, with appetizers, salads and sandwiches. They were known for serving good Cajun food among other items. The bar and restaurant were especially popular for Friday fish fry, serving both cod and catfish.

The bar appears to have closed just before their 5th anniversary; it disappears from both 'Bar listings' and 'Daily Specials' sections of LGBT periodicals early in March 1999.

More information about this business is welcomed from anyone who can contribute it.