Reeves Sports Bar, a bar named after the fabricated folk hero from which this city allegedly got its name, is set to bring a whole new vibe to the corner of crapulence that is East Central Boulevard and South Magnolia Avenue.
The newest concept from Thriving Hospitality, whose portfolio includes Thrive Cocktail Lounge, Lamp & Shade Craft Kitchen, Packwoods and the soon-to-open Terra Modern American, won’t just offer a sophisticated sports bar experience with a proper craft cocktail program, but cheffy spins on classic pub grub courtesy of Thriving Hospitality chef-partner Ryan Stewart.
His studied dishes at Lamp & Shade really impressed, and he’s bringing that same level of technique and proficiency to the menu at Reeves.
“We took the bar food we all know and love and gave them a chef-driven twist,” Stewart says. “It’s built around the food we want to eat at our neighborhood bar — fun, nostalgic, craveable and made from scratch.”
That includes the bar’s signature pressed burgers like the “smokehouse” and “blacken & bleu” which are cooked in a panini press for “perfect crispy edges.” Additional items include Philly cheesesteak eggrolls (Reeves’ take on classic pigs in a blanket), beef stroganoff, Cajun pasta, turkey club and pastrami sandwiches and a handful of salads, like the Asian tuna.
“Every dish is designed to be approachable while still delivering something a little unexpected,” says Stewart. “And because every great bar meal needs something to dip into, we’ll have a huge selection of house-made sauces for all your dipping, dunking and drizzling needs.”
Nicole Carter, Thriving’s executive pastry chef, will fashion pies and ice cream for Reeves’ dessert menu.
Reeves will soft-open this weekend in the old Swiggs space at 50 E. Central Blvd., but for drinks only. Stewart says food will start being served the following week, after they receive their seating license.
“This is not just another bar coming to downtown Orlando. We’re really hoping to provide a comfortable and approachable space to fill the void for entertainment in the neighborhood. There’s something for everyone on this menu, and we couldn’t be more excited to share it with everyone.”
Follow @reevessportsbar for more.
