In the heart of Old North, Ace of Cups is orchestrating a delightful blend of tunes and tastes. The establishment, under new ownership since 2021, has been fine-tuning its space and services, now adding a savory note with two Columbus-based culinary artists. The venue's owner, Conor Stratton, envisions a place where the community can savor not just the music but also a variety of delectable offerings.
With a passion for the neighborhood, Stratton's vision is to make Ace of Cups a destination for an eclectic mix of entertainment and dining. The venue's recent renovations and event schedule expansion are just the beginning of a grander plan to harmonize the sensory experiences of its patrons.
Dirty Frank’s Hot Dog Palace, a local favorite, is set to bring its signature flavors inside the walls of Ace of Cups. This marks the first time the hot dog connoisseur will operate within a music venue, diversifying its presence which already includes local stadiums and a carryout location. The collaboration was sparked by mutual connections and the serendipitous availability of a kitchen space that was previously used for storage.
Stratton and the Dirty Frank’s team felt an immediate connection, recognizing the potential in joining forces. The integration of Dirty Frank’s into the venue is anticipated to be a crowd-pleaser, offering patrons the convenience of indoor ordering and a taste of something familiar yet entirely new within the musical atmosphere.
Blackened Coffee Co. is no stranger to the Columbus scene, having made its mark with pop-up operations that combine vegan fare with a heavy metal vibe. The coffee company's collaboration with Ace of Cups began at the venue's Punk Rock Pawn Shop event and is now set to become a permanent fixture. Blackened Coffee will serve an expanded menu of coffee, breakfast, and lunch items from a drive-thru window on the venue's patio.
The partnership is a testament to the venue's commitment to diversity and inclusivity, offering vegan options and a variety of beverages that cater to the preferences of touring bands and their fans. Stratton notes the surprising number of musicians who prefer non-alcoholic beverages, and Blackened Coffee's presence behind the bar ensures that all guests have a choice that resonates with their tastes.
The anticipation is building as the community awaits the opening of Dirty Frank’s and Blackened Coffee at Ace of Cups. With Dirty Frank’s slated to open in the summer and Blackened Coffee by June, the venue is poised to become a beacon of culture and cuisine in Columbus. These enhancements are expected to draw in crowds eager for a taste of the unique combination of music, food, and coffee.
As Ace of Cups continues to evolve, it remains steadfast in its commitment to providing an exceptional experience for locals and visitors alike. The new additions are just a taste of what's to come, as the venue continues to innovate and serve as a gathering place for those who appreciate the finer things in life: good music, great food, and excellent coffee.