A new retro-style cocktail bar and dance hall is opening in Over-the-Rhine this week.
Located in the former The Drinkery (and The Setback) at 1150 Main St., Nice Life is local hospitality company Four Entertainment Group (4EG)’s newest concept, featuring a menu of signature and classic cocktails and an atmosphere inspired by the ‘70s, ‘80s and ‘90s.
4EG first announced The Drinkery would close to make way for Nice Life in July 2024; the bar closed in August of that year for renovations, but the project was delayed, and the bar reopened with the tongue-in-cheek name “The Setback” as construction plans were adjusted. The Setback closed this June, and the bar underwent a full renovation that included new flooring, additional bars, lighting, seating, decor, a sound system and an upgraded back patio.
Now, the bar offers seating for 50, with a mix of barstools, high-top tables and banquettes. There’s also a new speed bar on the dance floor to enhance service and double as a private-party setup.
Interior designer Michele Pinales helped bring the vision of Nice Life to life. The space is decked out in bold orange patterned wallpaper, streaming light fixtures, neon accents, a gold disco ball and a colorblock dance floor that evokes the disco era. Outside, the patio features a mural by local artist Technique that channels the era of music videos on MTV.
Nice Life is a bar-only concept, offering cocktails, as well as beer, seltzers, THC beverages and non-alcoholic drinks. Signature drinks include the he Rosemary Rhapsody (Tito’s Handmade Vodka, Amaro-Meletti, rosemary-honey syrup, lemon juice, orange bitters and a torched rosemary sprig) and Saturday Night Cider (Captain Morgan Spiced Rum, chilled apple cider, lemon juice, ginger beer, brut Champagne and a cinnamon stick); or, opt for a classic cocktail like an espresso martini or an old fashioned, with a maple twist.
You can get half-priced drinks during happy hour, 4-7 p.m. Monday through Friday. The bar will also host live music, including acoustic acts, party cover bands, karaoke and local and national DJs.
The grand opening is Friday, Oct. 3, starting at 6 p.m. Whiskey Daze will perform, followed by a late-night DJ set, and early guests can enjoy giveaways and swag.
Following the grand opening, Nice Life will be open Sunday through Friday from 4 p.m. to 2:30 a.m. and Saturday from 2 p.m. to 2:30 a.m.
Nice Life, 1150 Main St., Over-the-Rhine. More info: nicelifeotr.com.
