Have you ever wanted to escape Cincinnati without leaving the city? A new bar in Over the Rhine is hoping to become that getaway destination.
Somerset Bar, at 139 E. McMicken Ave., is planning a mid-to-late July opening with the goal of becoming a central gathering place for the neighborhood, James Fisher, co-founder of Somerset and Lost Hospitality, said.
"I always thought the city was missing a proper garden bar," Fisher said. "Somewhere where it's not just a patio, but actually is planted, bush-y and jungle-y."
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Once open, Somerset plans to be that exotic jungle oasis, complete with a planted garden and decorations Fisher has sourced from all over the world, from city gates originally from northern India to a tram car-turned seating area from an Italian zoo to a London bus serving as a food truck.
"The idea was to create a bit of an escape, so you feel like you're somewhere else while you're still in the city," Fisher said.
Somerset is partnering with the food truck Mazunte Tacos to provide global street food rooted with a Mexican influence.
The drinks will be focused on global spirits and cocktails with a twist, Fisher said, and will be garnished with plants grown on their rooftop herb garden.
Once open, Fisher said any community organization will be able to book the garden or lounge for free to use for meetings, fundraisers and events.
