A new, high-profile business partnership has taken over two popular existing bars and restaurants in downtown Wilmington. They’ve also launched a new concept – a high-end piano bar at the corner of Front and Dock streets.
Here’s what you need to know.
Who are the owners?
Clayton Gsell joined forces with coach Kevin Keatts when they learned they were both considering opening a piano bar near Wrightsville Beach. Keatts is the former basketball coach at University of North Carolina Wilmington and most recently led N.C. State University’s team to the Final Four in the 2024 NCAA Division I men's basketball tournament this spring. Gsell is a local businessman who has opened and developed a number of concepts, including restaurants.
What’s the new bar?
The pair have opened Tempo 33, a piano bar and cocktail lounge on the third floor of the Roudabush building that’s also home to YoSake and The Husk . Keatts and Gsell decided that downtown was the best location for what they had in mind, a unique and elevated bar. Look for lounge-style seating, intimate live music from singers and pianists, and a dressy casual vibe.
More: Downtown Wilmington restaurants reopen after fire, as new owners launch piano bar
Where is it and when is it open?
It’s at 33 S. Front St. in downtown Wilmington. The lounge can be accessed by stairs on Front Street or an elevator off Dock Street. As of Aug. 23, the bar is opening at 5 p.m. Thursday, Friday and Saturday.
What’s the menu?
There's a selection of beer and wine, but spirits and cocktails are a focus. Options include a scotch flight, a Lavendar Paloma, a Cinnamon Churro dessert martini, a Cachaca Spritz and the Millions of Peaches bourbon cocktail made with Old Forrester 100 and peach bitters. The Nightcap mocktail is a mixture of hibiscus tea, lemon, lemongrass, lavender and a thyme-infused ice cube.
The food menu includes small plates and bar snacks, like charcuterie, hummus and shrimp cocktail. Popular nibbles include the Truffle Parm Popcorn and the Tres Amigos, or chips with salsa, guacamole and queso.
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Allison Ballard is the food and dining reporter at the StarNews. You can reach her at aballard@gannett.com
This article originally appeared on Wilmington StarNews: NC State basketball coach Kevin Keatts opens bar in Wilmington. What to know before you go.
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