PHILADELPHIA (KCTV) – A beloved Kansas City Chiefs bar is closing for good.
Big Charlie’s Saloon, a Chiefs bar located in South Philadelphia and proclaimed as the original “Arrowhead East,” is closing, the restaurant announced in a post on Instagram on Christmas morning.
“It is with the heaviest of hearts that we share this message with our Big Charlie’s family,” the restaurant said. “Big Charlie’s Saloon is now permanently closed following the devastated passing of our owner, Paulie.”
Owner Paul Staico took the bar over following his father’s death and led it to national recognition, attracting customers from across the country while appearing in two NFL Films in 2003 and 2023.
On Sunday, The Kansas City Chiefs take on the Philadelphia Eagles in Super Bowl 59. For one South Philly bar, they are closed to the public as the walls sport red and gold.(Big Charlie’s Saloon)
Staico died unexpectedly on Nov. 30, 2025, at the age of 59.
“While this was not how we ever imagined closing our doors, we know Big Charlie’s will never be the same without Paulie and this is the path we must take,” the restaurant’s post continued. “We are deeply grateful for the outpouring of kindness, prayers, messages, and support you have shown during this unfathomable time. Your compassion has carried us through the days we never thought we would face.
“We will continue to find ways to honor Paulie’s legacy and the community he built. This is not goodbye — it is simply see you later. Wishing you all peace this holiday season, and thank you for being part of our family. As always, Go Chiefs (Yellow Heart emoji).”
The bar opened in 1986. Several notable Chiefs fans and members of the organization visited it over the years, including defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo.
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