Downtown bar reveals name, will open soon

By GUY D’ASTOLFO

dastolfo@vindy.com

YOUNGSTOWN

It isn’t open yet, but downtown’s newest nightspot has picked a name: Ryes.

The bar at 124 W. Federal St., on the second floor of the building that houses Imbibe Martini Bar, will specialize in craft beer and whiskey. It will open in March, said Jeff Kurz. who co-owns the bar with Brad Schwartz. The two also own Imbibe.

The name is a play on words, reflecting one type of liquor it will serve, and also the fact that patrons will have to ascend — or “rise” — to the second floor to get in.

The owners had selected the name this past fall but challenged the community to come up with another that would make them change their minds.

A contest was held, but none of the submitted names were chosen. However, the top three submissions will be honored with menu items that use the proposed names. They are: Bourbon Revival, submitted by Doug Foster: Bairille, Ryan K,; and Federal Reserve, Brian Mayle.

Ryes also will feature classic and signature cocktails. A unique feature will be a dance floor with a large window overlooking Federal Street.

Open interviews for bartenders, servers and barbacks will be from 2 to 6 p.m. Saturday at the bar.