The Writer's Room bar will open in the former Protagonist spot in NoDa
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Rendering: d3 Studio
The Writer's Room is a new bar by Cory Duran, owner of The People's Market in Elizabeth.
Why it matters: It's going to be a bar that highlights and celebrates local artists of all genres.
The big picture: The Writer's Room aims to be the kind of bar that will cater to NoDa's artist-centric identity — something that the neighborhood has prided itself in since the 80s but has been grasping to hold onto as Charlotte grows.
"I appreciate growth, but I also want to respect the culture [and identity] of the neighborhood," says Duran, who grew up in NoDa.
The vibe: Duran says you can expect a chill atmosphere that caters to good conversation, whether it's for a date or a meeting.
- There won't be loud music, but there will be opportunities for local artists to feature new tracks. "Maybe you got like a new song or EP you just want to come in and play for a small group of people," Duran says, adding that The Writer's Room is the kind of place you'll be able to do that.
- It'll also feature works of art by local artists, which Duran has always celebrated — peep the murals inside The People's Market.
Dig in: To start, The Writer's Room will offer light bites like charcuterie. Eventually, the menu will expand to offer tapas.
- Its drink menu will have a selection of wines, local beers, and classic cocktails with local spirits.
Stop by: The Writer's Room will be located at 3123 N Davidson St., a 1,500-square-foot space in the heart of NoDa that formerly housed Protagonist, and NoDa Grocery before that.
What's next: Duran hopes to open The Writer's Room by this summer, but says it depends on permits.
- Construction on the LoSo location of The People's Market will start in the coming weeks.
- The People's Market Myers Park location is expected to open this summer.
Check out the renderings by local architecture firm d3 Studio:
