Daytonian of the Week: Michael Shubert

Michael Shubert bought the Red Carpet Tavern at 3301 Wayne Ave. at a time when classic neighborhood bars appeared to be going out of style.

Now in his 10th year of ownership, Shubert's business has become a successful model that the small dive bar on the corner doesn't have to mean poor customer service and bad food. 
In fact, Shubert is proud of the personal relationships he's cultivated with many of his customers, while being an ardent supporter of the Belmont neighborhood.

He has also held fundraisers for members of the community when they’ve been in need, and uses proceeds from the Red Carpet Tavern to support Team Red, White & Blue, which raises money for the Wounded Warrior Project.

Here, meet Shubert, our Daytonian of the Week.

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What do you do?

Everything! From janitor to dishwasher to cook to the bartender to the books.

What superpower would you love to have?

Cure cancer.

What do you love about life in Dayton?

You can get (anywhere) in the Dayton area, most of the time, within 20 minutes.

What’s your favorite spot in Dayton?

The Red Carpet Tavern! (Aside from that)-- Jazz Central. People don’t know about it. They do a jam session every Sunday night, and I kind of sneak away and go there.

Why did you decide to settle in Dayton?

I got me a big boy job when I was about 20 years old and stayed here. I did the family thing. I moved away briefly to Daytona. (I) came back. I like it here in Dayton. I like the Belmont area. I like to bring our neighborhoods back.

How did you get involved in your line of work?

I owned a karaoke company and DJ business for 30 years. I went around to different bars and made them money. So it was my turn. Boy, was I wrong about that!

If you could change or bring one thing to Dayton, what would it be?

I would change the busing. I would go back to neighborhood schools, and bring our community back again. I think that’s a must. Just my opinion.

What do you think Dayton will look like in 10-15 years from now?

I’ll have to wait and see what the next four years brings.

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