Rosemary “Aggie” Alt had a dream for a clubhouse aimed at locals interested in art. A place where patrons, media-lovers and artists of all types could mingle, discuss and enjoy each other’s hard work. She had her sights on a particular building: 1205 Adams Street.
That was 25 years ago, and the dream did not see daylight. Aggie decided to put her idea on the back burner, choosing instead to pursue other small business models.
Jump forward to 2014, when Alt began to pursue the same idea in the same building for the second time. It took her a year and a half, citing permit issues as a major hurdle. After constant pushing and progress, The Moxie finally opened on Saturday, December 20.
“We were slammed,” Alt said.
Since then, the impressive menu of high-quality bar food at dive bar prices have satisfied tummies, great beers (I'm looking at you, Magner's Pear Cider) and cocktails to quench thirst, with diverse entertainment has kept patrons engaged.
“We serve alcohol and great food, but I want this to be an entertainment venue that happens to have a kitchen and bar. I want to blur the line between artist and audience. I want artists to feel at home and I want art-lovers to be able to mesh,” Alt explained.
The two-room venue is as inviting as it is unique. A piano sits next to a stage, small tables line the walls, and the smell of pizza with creative ingredients comes out of the kitchen. Aggie greets you at the bar, asking you how you are doing before taking your order. Jeff Albright, star of the stage and the kitchen, has been cooking up everything from picnic platters to large pizzas to further encourage sharing—The Moxie is not the place to keep to yourself.
To celebrate the longstanding vision, The Moxie will open its doors for a grand opening from 6-11pm this Friday, January 16. Embodying a creative state of mind, live performances by local musicians, poets, theater and the saucy burlesque performances of T-Town Tassels will keep the party lively. All who enter will receive a free raffle ticket at the door, with more tickets available upon purchase for $1. Giveaways, prizes, and drink and food specials will also be part of the celebration. Lunch specials are available during the day for those who want to celebrate early or show support if unable to attend in the evening.
Entertainment 6pm-11pm. Pub 11am-1am. Friday, January 16. The Moxie, 1205 Adams St. 419-214-3141. themoxielive.com
