Stepping into Cleveland’s Lounge is much like stepping back into time. From the Art Deco painting by none other than Connie Burnett Ferraro that graces one of the walls, to the Tiffany glass light fixtures to the high quality cocktails served by friendly staff, everything feels so retro and classic. The “original speakeasy” is located inside the historic Boulder Dam Hotel downstairs, where the temperatures are especially soothing during these extra warm summer months.
Cleveland’s is the brainchild of Cleveland DeWolf and he and his business partners, Rhonda and Kyle Kauffman, have hit on a great formula that brings back the elegance of savoring drinks over conversation while live music plays in the background. Mr. DeWolf has a background in the construction industry, but he fell in love with the space that would become Cleveland’s from the moment he saw it. One thing you won’t miss in the cozy space is the presence of flat screen televisions, seemingly ubiquitous in most lounges these days. It’s a space very conducive to spirited conversation on all manner of subjects instead.
The bar originally opened in September 2019 and enjoyed a significant following – hosting a wildly popular 2019 New Year’s Eve costume party – before the COVID-19 closures temporarily disrupted business.
Well, they are back and it doesn’t look like they’ve skipped a beat! Now offering a beautiful charcuterie tray to complement their wine and cocktails, they are also having special handmade chocolates produced to pair with some of their offerings, like port. They are also offering dessert whiskeys like chocolate, chocolate peanut butter and turtle varieties.
Live music is offered on Wednesday, Friday and Saturday and may expand to other days of the week. One of the more popular performers, Daniel Herout, is a school teacher by profession who is also a self-taught musician and vocalist and performs many excellent covers. Music is available Wednesday from 7:00PM to 9:00PM. Friday and Saturday, live music is from 7:00PM to 11:00PM.
The bar opens at 3:00PM daily to its local and even international visitors who are staying nearby. Drinks can be served in the bar, as well as upstairs near the fireplace, which will be especially nice during the cooler winter months.
The bar offers several signature cocktails that must be tried. One that comes to mind is the 1933 Cocktail, served with 10 Torr Gin from Reno, NV. Another special offering is an authentic Old-Fashioned, made with Luxardo cherries and orange with Four Roses Bourbon and a kiss of spiced cherry bitters. You can get a Negroni, Moscow Mule, Rusty Nail and nearly any other drink you desire. They also offer a large assortment of wines by the bottle and some by the glass.
The official Grand Reopening of Cleveland’s Lounge is scheduled for August 6th and 7th. Make sure to stop by and experience the wonderful ambiance, delicious l
