The Winchester Returns To Lakewood
Shane Motolik upgrades the iconic music venue.
“It became like a thing,” he recalls. “This was our place.” A group of five to 10 would be there for shows monthly, even weekly.
So when the Bevy in Birdtown, which had taken roost in the former Winchester space, went up for sale last year, he put in an offer. The deal was finalized in April.
“It was kind of perfect timing, perfect scenario,” says Motolik, who moved back from Los Angeles two years ago.
Motolik decided to name his new space the Winchester Music Tavern after the original Winchester, because he felt other Clevelanders were still nostalgic like him.
“People would identify with it,” Motolik says. “It’s a staple.”
Devotees may notice some different vibes. The bar serves beers and cocktails such as the Cuyahoga Storm, made with spiced rum, fresh lime juice and ginger beer. There’s also a menu of bar snacks that includes a burger, Reuben fritters and duck fat fries. Motolik even offers Wing Wednesday and Taco Thursday.
The venue at Winchester and Madison avenues has always been known for music, so Motolik hopes to replicate those memorable shows he attended in his teens and early 20s. He also plans to mix up the musical offerings by covering hip-hop, indie, rock and the occasional electronic artist or DJ.
Motolik is shuffling in comedy nights, Tuesday open mics and live band karaoke on Thursday to help bring in a different crowd.
To improve the overall listening experience, Motolik plans to add better lighting and sound equipment such as a new soundboard with additional processors.
“We want to make sure it’s one of the better sounding venues in Cleveland,” he says, “and eventually maybe Ohio.”
