Mookie Wilson, the Hall of Famer from the New York Mets, is bringing new life to a renowned bar in Albany that was popular among the state’s political elite.
The War Room Tavern, a favorite spot for lawmakers and lobbyists, shut its doors in March. However, with Wilson’s involvement, it will reopen this fall as Mookie Wilson’s Legacy BBQ at The War Room.
Three years ago, Wilson and his family launched a mobile-catering venture called Legacy BBQ, which gained a devoted following.
Todd Shapiro, a prominent political consultant in New York, suggested to Wilson that The War Room could serve as a permanent location for his BBQ business.
Wilson took to the idea, and starting in November, patrons can look forward to a menu featuring slow-smoked brisket, pork spareribs, chicken wings, smoked sausage, baked beans, potato salad, homemade banana pudding, and pineapple cake.
“The War Room has always been about politics,” Wilson remarked. “We don’t want to change that. But we’re aiming to add a touch of baseball flavor, merging politics, baseball, and barbecue.”
Cooking, much like baseball, has always been central to Wilson’s family life. With Legacy BBQ, he aims to preserve their Southern Carolina recipes and culinary traditions.
“This is a real boost for Albany,” stated Shapiro, who is also a partner in Wilson’s venture and the owner of the Greenhouse Social Club.
“The War Room isn’t shutting down. Mookie Wilson and his family are revitalizing it while keeping the essence that people cherish: the politics, the camaraderie, the discussions, and the welcoming atmosphere.”
The War Room was known for its political theme, which included a striking 1,000-pound bull-moose head that pays homage to Theodore Roosevelt’s Bull Moose Party, the Progressive Party he founded.
This iconic moose will remain in place, along with baseball gloves and Mets memorabilia.
The restaurant is slated to open in the first week of November, perfectly timed with the 40th anniversary of the 1986 Mets World Series championship, a moment Wilson played a significant role in.
“Cooking is part of our family legacy,” Wilson expressed. “Just like baseball—that’s woven into our family too.”
