It’s always good to have a sense of humor, especially when life throws some roadblocks in your way. 4EG, which owns several bars and restaurants across Cincinnati, is proving it can laugh at itself after the rebranding of its bar, The Drinkery, went a little haywire.
4EG announced in July that it was closing its Over-the-Rhine bar The Drinkery to rebrand it into a cocktail lounge, Nice Life. The bar closed at the end of August to begin renovations to turn it into Nice Life, but remodeling will have to wait until spring due to unforeseen delays, says 4EG.
But patrons won’t have to wait that long to visit a bar at 1150 Main St. While “The Drinkery” name is gone, the bar will reopen now as “The Setback” to continue serving patrons and acknowledge that sometimes the “Nice Life” doesn’t work out the way you initially thought it would.
“Our priority is making sure our guests can enjoy the full 4EG experience, from the hospitality to the atmosphere. While operating as The Setback, we will be making key interior upgrades to the restrooms, sound and lighting, however, we’re not quite ready to roll out our latest concept yet. We appreciate the community’s patience and support as we work through these setbacks,” 4EG managing partner Ben Klopp said in a press release.
The Setback will continue The Drinkery’s long-standing tradition of good times and cheap drinks, including a variety of beers, wines and wells for $5 or less. There will also be a new cocktail menu with cheeky names like “Oopsie Daisy” and “Better Luck Next Time.”
Once renovations on Nice Life are complete in 2025, the space will feature a redesigned bar and dance floor, rustic chandeliers, vibrant artwork and rose-gold disco balls. Other 4EG managing partner Bob Deck says it will be worth the wait.
“In the meantime, we invite neighbors and friends to enjoy some cheap drinks with us and get ready for the grand opening of Nice Life next year!” Deck said in the release.
The Setback will be open Monday and Tuesday from 4 p.m. to midnight; Wednesday through Friday from 4 p.m. to 2:30 a.m.; and Saturday and Sunday from noon to 2:30 a.m.
The Drinkery, er, Nice Life — no wait, The Setback is located at 1150 Main St., Over-the-Rhine. More info: instagram.com/drinkotr.
