Entourage aims to deliver an 'elegant' experience with new downtown lounge
A new nightlife venue will open t̶h̶i̶s̶ next weekend in the Hilton.
The Social, as it will be known, will offer a “comfortable lounge type atmosphere” with a full-service bar specializing in craft cocktails.
The concept, branded as “upscale,” is being introduced by Entourage Events Group. The company already operates a number of Twin Cities’ venues, including the Mansion at Uptown and the Minneapolis Event Centers.
“The Social will tie in an elegant and posh experience with an entertainment element,” said Steve Hark, founder and CEO of Entourage Events Group. “The energy and vibe on the weekends will be a unique addition to the downtown Rochester scene.”
The venue will offer bottle service and regularly feature live DJs and bands on the weekends. Like with its other downtown Rochester venue, the H3 Rooftop, The Social will enforce a so-called “dress to impress” dress code.
Speaking of the H3 Rooftop, that venue shut down for the season on September 28. It will remain available for private rentals.
Update: Entourage said Friday afternoon that it is delaying the grand opening of The Social until October 11. It had originally planned to open October 4.
Local breweries abuzz with goodwill
A few weeks ago, we told you about how Forager Brewery was using its latest beer release to support the child of one of its employees.
Since then, two other breweries — Kinney Creek and Thesis Beer Project — have stepped up to support causes near and dear to their hearts.
On Friday, Kinney Creek will be releasing the “Blue Healer,” in collaboration with Chatfield-based PawPrint Brewery. For each beer sold, the breweries will donate $1 to the House of Shields program. The organization supports law enforcement officers and their family members by providing them with free lodging while they receive medical care in Rochester.
Meantime, over at the new Thesis Beer Project, $1 from every pour of their “For the Good and Thirsty” beer will support the Gift of Life Transplant House. In an interview this week with KTTC-TV, co-owner Adam Fredericksen explained why he chose to support the local nonprofit.
“Once upon a time, they housed my mom after a transplant and did a lot for our family and they currently are housing my aunt right now after she just had a heart transplant not too long ago,” he told the station. “This group has been an integral part of my life and has done a lot for me and it’s an awesome honor for us to be able to make a beer and give back to people that have done so much for our family and for all of us here at Thesis.”
Art at the airport
Your art could be among the first impressions visitors have of Rochester.
This week the Rochester International Airport launched “Arts Elevated,” a new program designed to showcase the works of local and regional artists.
“We are continually improving the experience at RST,” said Tiana O’Connor, RST’s marketing and communications manager. “By showcasing regional art, we will enhance the sense of place and connection to the local community through these displays.”
The airport has put out a call for art in partnership with the Greater Rochester Arts and Culture Trust. Artists can submit works of art for consideration between now and November 30.
Selected art will be displayed in the main terminal beginning in January 2020, with rotations of new art twice a year.
You can visit the airport’s website for more info on the program.
Sean Baker is a Rochester journalist and the founder of Med City Beat.
