Locals should be able to party like it's 1923 later this month, when a new bar with an old style opens for business.
Owner and bartender Aynsley Jones is creating a basement bar called The Doggery, with the classic feel of a Prohibition-era speakeasy.
He said he chose the name for its historic flavor. The title character of "The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn" used Doggery to describe a bar in the late 1800s, and it was a popular code word to get into a speakeasy bar to get an illegal drink.
His crew is working on the finishing touches, so look for drinks to start flowing soon at Third St. S.W. on Historic Third Street. The subterranean night spot fills 1,600 square feet under the classic Merchant Exchange building on Historic Third Street. Scott Hoss, of Paramark, handled the leasing and also is one of the owners of that part of the building.
"This is the perfect spot. Some of my favorite bars are basement bars," Jones said. "I think it complements Sontes and The Tap House on either side."
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He describes the basement lounge as low-key with vintage, eclectic furnishings that include a chandelier, a jackalope head, a 22-foot-long eucalyptus wood bar and some pieces from the old Thielman Opera House. It also has a private party room.
Brianna Truax of Modern Design Concepts is doing the interior design work, while Adam Ferrari of 9square handled the architecture.
One thing that The Doggery doesn't have is a TV, because of its historic style and focus on being a good spot for a quiet drink and conversation.
The drinks will tend toward cocktails that Jones describes as "hand-crafted" and "vintage." That means fresh, often hand-made ingredients.
He intends to breathe life back into a variety of classic cocktails, including the Old-Fashioned Cocktail. The Doggery will serve a full selection of whiskey, scotch and bourbon.
Jones will have four beer taps, but also acutting-edge wine tap system. Carafes of red and white wine will be served. ZZest Market & Cafe will provide appetizers.
Once he gets the doors open, Jones expects to have about 10 on staff.
