Mysteriously appearing from Hendersonville’s storied past, a past that included hidden stills, fast cars, and revenuers, this black door leads adventurous souls up a dark, creaky flight of stairs.
Will you dare go up those stairs? If your answer is “yes”, you’ll be rewarded with access to a brand new space that’s over a century old.
Renzo Maietto, owner of Renzo’s Ristorante on the 1st floor, was recently exploring the upstairs of this 1904 building and found old bottles that once held illegal liquor. He also found the original door to the speakeasy that conducted business on the sly here, allowing entrance to only those who passed the door-keeper’s visual test through a sliding peep hole.
A cozy lounge area with a sofa and small high-top that seats 4 or 5 flanks the entrance in to what will be “SPEAKEASY”, reborn by Renzo. If you’re a people watcher like I am, this will be the place for you. Everyone that goes in to the speakeasy has to pass right through the middle of this space.
Renzo has kept original floors and ceiling, but is adding pizazz with beautiful chandeliers and sconces. There’s also a small stage area for live music. Not wanting any of this to be taken too seriously, he’s also added a few slightly campy touches you’ll appreciate.
Revenures caught up with poor Clarence “Fatty” Howard just off of Main Street back in the 1920’s. You don’t need to worry, though. This time ’round everything’s legal.
Another twist will be currency used here. At this time, I believe patrons will purchase “casino chips” either in the speakeasy or downstairs at Renzo’s, and use them to buy food and drink. And as of this writing, you can purchase a particular quantity at a discount.
If you haven’t been to Renzo’s, here are some pictures recently taken by friends of mine when they stopped in for a bite. I expect the entire Renzo’s menu will be available in the speakeasy. Perhaps some additional small plates?
Scheduled opening is at the end of April, but you know how construction goes.
SPEAKEASY
504 N Main St
Hendersonville, NC
