Joseph Fredrickson knows how to make a good cocktail. Known for Society Lounge on East Fourth Street, Fredrickson was looking for another opportunity in downtown Cleveland. With a vacant location along Euclid Avenue where Hodge’s once was, he saw potential. “With Society Lounge, it’s one of our weaknesses that we’re just down in the basement,” he says. “I’ve been looking into getting a patio for a long time.” He had been eyeing the space since November, but ever since the COVID-19 pandemic he felt even more immediacy for an outdoor space. In mid-August, he opened Sixth City Sailors Club, a casual affair that doesn’t take itself too seriously. The nautical-themed neighborhood bar boasts an outdoor patio, bocce ball court, fire pits, lawn games — and even pink flamingos. The menu ranges from Cleveland classics to seafood faves. But it’s the craft drinks that will have you dropping anchor here. “We are approachable and friendly as a neighborhood bar should be, but we have craft quality in our core,” says Fredrickson. “Better-quality drinks, better food selection, but still being able to come in and feel like you’re at home.” Here are three things to know about Fredrickson’s newest adventure.
Mixing It Up
At the heart of Sixth City Sailors Club, is its drink menu. You’ll find classic cocktails ($10) such as a whiskey sour, Manhattan and Negroni offered on draft or bottled for quick service. “One of my favorites is our old fashion on the draft system,” says Fredrickson. “We do it with nitrogen, so it gives off a creamier texture like you have from Guinness.” If you don’t take your cocktails so seriously, try one of the slushies. A grown-up approach to the childhood classic, these alcohol-infused frozen cocktails come with fun names such as Jungle Bird (a concoction of rum, Campari, pineapple juice, lime and simple syrup). Fall flavors like pumpkin spice are currently in the process of being added to the menu.
Keep It Casual
You won’t find anything too fancy here when it comes to the food. The idea is to keep the offerings comfortable, approachable and welcoming. And of course, fun. There’s a pierogi flight ($7), a collection of three different pierogies: potato-cheddar, sweet potato and cheddar-jalapeno served with chive sour cream. You’ll also find an array of po’boys such as the Surf ‘n Turf Po’boy ($13) made with grilled split andouille sausage, chilled shrimp salad, garlic aioli, lettuce and hot sauce. “And then we have some nautical-themed items like fish and chips, calamari and clam strips,” says Fredrickson. “I was very intentional about trying to make sure that we had plenty of Cleveland staples like a Polish boy and pierogies.”
Location, Location, Location
Fredrickson actually lives across the street from Sixth City Sailors Club. Before taking over the space he would look at the patio area and think about all the ways he could maximize the space if he had the chance. With all the improvements he’s already made, he’s not done yet. “We have a stage so when music comes back we can have performances, trivia nights and stand-up comedy troupes,” he says. “We’ve added some things to try to bring in elements of fun and escapism that I think are so necessary in a culture where we’re all sick of our apartments and sick of work and are trying to get away from the Zoom life.”
When You Go:
668 Euclid Ave., Unit 2, Cleveland, 216-938-7392, sixthcitysailors.com
