Self-serve taproom The Studio opens between Mac’s and Southbound — expect focus on live entertainment

The Studio is currently in “soft opening” mode with limited hours Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday until its big grand opening on January 11. The other days, it’ll open for private events. Soft opening hours are 5-10 p.m. on Thursday; 4 p.m. to midnight on Friday; noon to midnight on Saturday; and noon to 9 p.m. on Sunday.

The exact address is 2501 South Boulevard.

The Studio builds on the other concepts’ successful pour-your-own model, while putting an emphasis on live entertainment. You’ll see a small stage playing host to musicians from all genres, comedians, hypnotists, and magicians.

What to expect: Beyond a substantial lineup of live entertainment, you’ll also find 26 taps featuring local craft beer, plus brews from around the country. Non-beer drinkers can enjoy rosé, kombucha, and cider.

The Studio will work in tandem with Mac’s Speedshop, Southbound, Backstage Lounge, and The Music Yard (all of which are under the same ownership umbrella) to market what they’re dubbing “The South 48.”

The vision is to turn this section of South Boulevard into one, cohesive entertainment collective.

The vibe: The Studio is an intimate space for shows or private listening events, leading directly out into The Music Yard, a larger courtyard that has significant appeal for summertime concerts.

Scotty Kent, Director of Marketing and Communications for Hoppin’ Brands, described The Studio as “fun and eclectic.” Owners Rich Moyer and Drew Nesemeier kept the graffiti artwork that was previously on the walls, which adds a delightfully grungy feel to the space.

You’ll also find a circa 1960s record player, so expect a “bring-your-own-vinyl” night coming soon. They’ve got video games, too, if that’s more your speed.

The lineup: The Studio works with Sofar Sounds, among others, to book talent. Sofar Sounds puts on secret, intimate gigs around the country. You don’t know what type of act you’re seeing or where you’re seeing it until the night of the show. The performances typically draw between 50 and 200 people, Kent explained, making them perfect for The Studio.

The food situation: Southbound will curate a specific menu to serve at The Studio. They haven’t quite figured out what the mode of delivery for the food looks like, but they know it won’t require visitors to abandon their chairs and walk into Southbound to get their food.

Look for an entertainment lineup coming soon.

Here’s a quick look at the space: