After a year of construction and prolonged bureaucratic wrangling, Third Street -- the rebirth of the former Third Street Saloon -- is open for business. Brothers Scott Kosiek and Chris Ulp used that time wisely, judging from the extraordinary amount of care they put into the bar's appearance -- from the clever interior reuse of a historic wooden home facade to vintage tin ceilings in the restrooms. With a wood-burning fireplace and hand-hewn wooden tables, bar, shelves and counters, the space feels personal and inviting. "For sure it's a neighborhood bar," says Kosiek. "We want people to feel super-comfortable when they come in. That's the goal."
Kosiek comes from a construction background and Ulp has years of experience in the hospitality industry, so a bar seemed to be a natural fit for their partnership. They signed on the building in December 2008 and hoped to be open within six months, but a delay in acquiring the liquor license and having to re-zone the building kept the doors closed longer. One bright side was the community support they garnered in the process. "Everyone around here has been awesome," says Kosiek. Neighbors such as The Bronx, Lovio-George, Traffic Jam & Snug, Motor City Brewing Works and the University Cultural Center Association wrote letters of support for the project to the city.
The bar is located at 701 W. Forest at, yep, Third. There is parking on the east side of the building, which is where the main entrance is located. Hours are currently 4 p.m. to 2 a.m. seven days a week, but future plans include the introduction of a Cuban taco cart, at which time Kosiek says the bar will begin opening at 11 a.m. Call 313-833-0603.
Source: Scott Kosiek, Third Street
Writer: Kelli B. Kavanaugh
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