Cheltenham's first rum bar is arriving on Friday 11 August 2023 at 4pm, bringing with it, a New York influence and jungle vibes.
The brainchild of Paul Scarrott, who founded Magnum Circus Tattoo Lounge opposite, 33 The Rum Bar on Prestbury Road, is offering a range of 100 rums and 22 cocktails, as well as snazzy interiors.
It's been in the pipeline for over a year, with planning hurdles to overcome in its transition from a flooring design store to its current incarnation.
What greets rum fans is a smoldering, moody interior with stylish lamps tumbling from the ceiling and plants lining the walls.
Artwork of snarling tigers adds to the edgy appeal, while a tattoo-like snake print on the wall gives the space a bit of bite.
There's plenty of oak and greenery, palm trees and plants, including a 14ft banana tree.
With cosy seating, lots of mirrors, including a mirrored ceiling in the basement, the whole place has a relaxed feel with ambient lighting.
And there's a nod to the owner's tattoo lounge over the road with Scarrott's first tattoo gun, from 26 years ago, displayed on the wall alongside his designs.
33 The Rum Bar will initially open from Wednesday through to Sunday. Doors will open on Wednesday to Friday from 4pm with last orders at 11pm before doors close at 11.30pm. On Saturday and Sunday the bar opens at 2pm, with closing time at 11.30pm on Saturday and 10.30pm on Sunday.
There'll be more than 100 rums to choose from within a few weeks, as owners build up from the 70 already in stock on the sparkling shelves.
And it's not just rum on the menu, there are 22 cocktails including a Pittville Pornstar with Koko Kanu, passion fruit liqueur, syrup and lime, and selection of other spirits, beers and ciders on offer along with bar snacks.
There's seating for around 60 to 70 people with more space for standing.
Scarrott said: 'My wife and I both love rum. When we were in New York a few years back we ended up in a lovely little rum bar and thought how nice it would be to have one in our home town. We love the thought of people being able to try out new rums.'
