Residents of central and north Pinellas County will have a new bar in 2013 when Quench Lounge opens its doors the week of Jan. 18.
The new bar, catering to an LGBT clientele, will open within the same complex as the now-closed Christopher Street Bar at the corner of Ulmerton Road and 66th Street.
“We knew by Christopher Street and Z109 before that that there was a large contingency of LGBTs in that area,” said Steven Rodriquez, who is the bar’s VP of operations. “The plaza is a perfect location for a new bar and we’re using a larger space.”
The new club will be open seven days a week from 2 p.m.-2 a.m. and will cater to a wide range of tastes, all while remaining welcoming within a modern and trendy atmosphere.
“Quench is an all-welcoming gay bar,” Rodriquez said. “Men, women, allies, the transgender community – it will be comfortable for everyone. It’s casual but trendy.”
Quench is backed by a team of financial backers, who Rodriquez said wish to remain as silent partners. But all of those involved in the creation of the bar have a background in business.
“The partners have a background in development and building multi-million dollar complexes,” Rodriguez said. “They have development, administrative and construction experience. They are also bringing financial support.”
Rodriguez is bringing his 30-plus years of marketing experience to the table, plus hospitality experience. He owned a bar in Port St. Lucie and is a former DJ and bartender.
“We’re planning on live music as well as dance music,” Rodriguez said, adding that Quench has hired Bruce Devery as its resident DJ. Devery was the resident DJ at Christopher Street before it closed this summer and has also worked at The Flamingo Resort in St. Petersburg.
The 2,700 square-foot club features 12-foot ceilings, a dance floor, nickel-plated hanging lamps and a VIP section, according to Rodriquez.
“What we want to do with Quench is appreciate the community and show that we’re a part of it,” Rodriguez said. “We’re more than just a bar with good deals. We’ve already reached out to several local charities – Metro, ASAP and St. Pete Pride – to schedule different shows and benefits for them.”
To keep up with Quench Lounge, visit Facebook.com/QuenchLounge or call 727-754-5900. The club is located at 13284 66th St. N. in Largo.
