HERE’S YOUR ALIBI
CONTRIBUTING WRITER: Jen Burk, Wife and Mom Extraordinaire
Have you ever traveled without ever leaving where you are? A smell? A taste? A sound, which magically transports you to a familiar moment in time? Emotion overwhelms you—drawing a smile, head nod, and if it was a song…you start to hum along. For Daniel Todd, owner of The Alibi, it was reminiscing over the 1993 MTV Unplugged session with Kurt Cobain of Nirvana. Nothing like that had been done before. The audience in house and at home connected with Kurt. To hear an artist in this pure form, acoustically, left anyone in earshot in a trance. That’s what Daniel desires to bring for the back area of The Alibi. He has musicians lined up, who in similar fashion, will be up close and personal, creating a connection with the listeners. Don’t type cast this space just yet, it will host a variety of genres, sure to entertain the spectrum of audiophiles around here.
As you cross the threshold from the interior of The Alibi to the back, you can feel a change in the air. Not just because it’s August and the air temperature is warmer, but the vibe is more relaxed. (Don’t worry, there are plenty of fans, which keep the air moving). In this space, you can let out an exhale of the “hustle and bustle,” with your next breath feeling more relaxed, as you hear the trickle of water. Your eyes are drawn to the detail of textures and colors. Cumaru and Ipe wood have been used, inviting a warmth to the space, while pops of color in the seating bring vibrancy. From the wood to the metal work, intentionality of form and function is evident. The bar top was hand poured, giving way for a creative usage of space for mixologists and patrons.
Not only is Daniel looking forward to the grand opening, but so is Matt Bramkamp, co-owner of The Alibi. His passion is around the bar top and in the kitchen. This new space is affording him new opportunities of culinary creativity. Matt shared, “Our cocktail menu is constantly evolving, new ideas are inspired from every direction: color, seasonal flavors, and ingredients. We have an approachable cocktail menu, while still nudging you outside of your comfort zone.” He chuckled at the most common comment he hears, “I don’t like gin.” To which he smiles and kindly offers a conversation regarding the diversity of gin, based upon its region of origin. Because of the extensive spirit selection in The Alibi, Matt can provide the patron’s palette with gin from all over the world and stateside. Surprisingly, 95% of those who come in not a fan, leave with a new opinion of gin, they like it.
The back bar offers wine on tap, keeping it at a constant temperature, preventing compromise from pour to sip. There is a new espresso machine and nitro cold brew available. Freshly squeezed juice will be offered. It is sure to be a key ingredient for a refreshing beverage out here. There are plans for this space to offer brunch on the weekends. Don’t worry, there is plenty of seating. Seating around the bar, family style around large tables, or, if you desire to embrace your inner introvert, have a seat in one of the handcrafted wood booths.
Daniel has an amazing team of craftsman, who may be behind the scenes, but their work is what captures your eye. Two of the fellas, Charles Brunty and Steve Curry have been friends with Daniel, since their teens, back when they were flipping houses. They were also integral with projects at 4th Street Fillin Station, owned by Daniel as well. Everyone was all smiles the day I toured this back space. Their smiles expressed relief that the grand opening was within reach. It’s hard to imagine this space was once a desolate driveway. When ground broke in September of 2022, Daniel and Matt had a vision. They were not aware of the obstacles and setbacks they would encounter, but they continued to keep their minds on what would be. That determination and drive has brought them to a grand opening! Now you can see the “magic” that has been happening out back.
The Alibi is your place to unwind with a beverage (mocktails are available along with cocktails). Consider hosting your next event (birthdays, going-away’s, corporate functions, holiday parties) here. It is a phenomenal space to rent out. Don’t take my word for it. The Alibi opens Monday-Friday at 4pm, while Saturday and Sunday, opening at 12pm. Check out their website for closing times for kitchen and bar. This may be your new space to retreat to…here’s your alibi.
