FROM ALLEY BAR TO FLINT ICON
Over 60 years of history, community, and the best burgers in Michigan
OUR JOURNEY
1950s – 1953THE TORCH IS BORN
The bar opens its doors in Buckham Alley, taking on the Torch Bar name in 1953 and quickly becoming a hidden but beloved hangout in downtown Flint.
1960s – 1966A TRUE ALLEY PUB
By the mid‑60s, new ownership helps cement the "Torch Bar & Grill" identity, known as a true alley pub for downtown workers and regulars from the city center.
1970s – 1975WEATHERING THE CHANGES
Through the 1970s, Torch weathers Flint's economic changes and keeps its "old‑time pub" vibe, focusing on simple drinks, bar conversation and a small grill that's already drawing early burger fans.
1980s – 1985THE LEGENDARY DIVE
In the 1980s, many locals remember Torch as part of Flint's classic bar scene; the burger served up the alley becomes a late‑night ritual and helps build its status as a legendary dive bar.
1990s – 1995WORD SPREADS
During the 1990s, word of the "Torch Burger" spreads across Genesee County, and the bar is often mentioned as serving one of the area's best burgers, all while doing virtually no advertising.
2000s – 2005ONLINE FAME
With the rise of online reviews, Torch starts appearing on must‑visit lists for Flint, described as a tiny, tucked‑away spot in the alley with a burger "worth the climb up the stairs."
2010s – 2015CULTURAL ICON
Tourism guides for Flint & Genesee and lists from major outlets begin to feature Torch among Michigan's best burgers and dive bars, while events like Buckham Alley Fest reinforce its role as a cultural icon downtown.
2020s – 2023STILL BURNING BRIGHT
Even after the pandemic, Torch stays busy and is highlighted by local TV and statewide tourism sites as the "Home of the Torch Burger for over 50 years," still serving a half‑pound burger at the same Buckham Alley address.
THE TORCH IS BORN
The bar opens its doors in Buckham Alley, taking on the Torch Bar name in 1953 and quickly becoming a hidden but beloved hangout in downtown Flint.
A TRUE ALLEY PUB
By the mid‑60s, new ownership helps cement the "Torch Bar & Grill" identity, known as a true alley pub for downtown workers and regulars from the city center.
WEATHERING THE CHANGES
Through the 1970s, Torch weathers Flint's economic changes and keeps its "old‑time pub" vibe, focusing on simple drinks, bar conversation and a small grill that's already drawing early burger fans.
THE LEGENDARY DIVE
In the 1980s, many locals remember Torch as part of Flint's classic bar scene; the burger served up the alley becomes a late‑night ritual and helps build its status as a legendary dive bar.
WORD SPREADS
During the 1990s, word of the "Torch Burger" spreads across Genesee County, and the bar is often mentioned as serving one of the area's best burgers, all while doing virtually no advertising.
ONLINE FAME
With the rise of online reviews, Torch starts appearing on must‑visit lists for Flint, described as a tiny, tucked‑away spot in the alley with a burger "worth the climb up the stairs."
CULTURAL ICON
Tourism guides for Flint & Genesee and lists from major outlets begin to feature Torch among Michigan's best burgers and dive bars, while events like Buckham Alley Fest reinforce its role as a cultural icon downtown.
STILL BURNING BRIGHT
Even after the pandemic, Torch stays busy and is highlighted by local TV and statewide tourism sites as the "Home of the Torch Burger for over 50 years," still serving a half‑pound burger at the same Buckham Alley address.
WHAT LOCALS SAY
'If you're looking for the real Flint experience, the Torch is it. The burger alone is worth the trip, but it's the atmosphere that keeps you coming back.'
— Featured in Michigan Travel Guide
'A hidden gem in Buckham Alley. This is old-school Michigan at its finest — great food, cold beer, and friendly faces.'
— Local Food Enthusiast
READY FOR THE BURGER?
Now that you know our story, it's time to taste it. Check out our full menu and see what makes the Torch legendary.
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