Uncover the Secrets of Pogo Cocktail Bar: Birmingham's Newest Speakeasy

If you're on the lookout for a fresh and exciting nightlife experience in Birmingham, mark your calendars! The highly anticipated Pogo Cocktail Bar is set to open its doors on Friday, November 22. Nestled beneath the chic Armour House brasserie, this speakeasy promises to deliver an unforgettable ambiance complemented by expertly crafted cocktails. Here’s everything you need to know about this intriguing new venue.

What to Expect at Pogo Cocktail Bar

Pogo is the brainchild of partners Rollins Montgomery and Chris Reebals, who aim to create a unique experience that blends classic cocktail culture with modern flair. According to Montgomery:

"With Pogo, we hope to provide a new and enhanced experience to the area, where classic cocktails and modern techniques mix in a unique atmosphere. We look forward to welcoming guests on November 22 to see another facet of Armour House that complements its sophisticated vibe and exceptional service."

Location and Hours

• Address: 2309 1st Ave. N, Suite 201, Birmingham, AL 35203
• Hours:
  • Tuesday-Thursday: 4:30 PM - Midnight
  • Friday-Saturday: 4:30 PM - 1:30 AM

Entering the Enigma: The Door at Pogo

The entrance to the cocktail bar is as intriguing as the drinks themselves. Hidden within the Armour House, the entrance features a charming design with a running brick pattern and an arched white brick hall. A playful pogo stick serves as a door handle, inviting you to discover the secrets that lie inside.

The Inspiration Behind the Name

Why a pogo stick, you ask? The space was once occupied by Armour & Company meatpacking. During renovations, a colorful pogo stick was discovered among the remnants of the past. Instead of discarding this whimsical find, Montgomery and Reebals decided it would be the perfect representation of their speakeasy's playful spirit.

Drink Up! Meet the Bartender of the Year

At the helm of Pogo's bar is Carla Irene, named Bartender of the Year by the Alabama Restaurant and Hospitality Association in 2022. Irene aims to create an enticing drinks menu featuring classic cocktails with a twist. Instead of traditional names, their exquisite concoctions will be numbered, adding an air of mystery and discretion to your drink selection.

Wine Lovers Rejoice!

Pogo will also cater to wine aficionados with a carefully curated list focusing on non-traditional varieties and esoteric blends. You'll find unique offerings that tantalize your palate, such as aromatic wines from Greece and structured selections from Israel. Plus, look out for innovative caviar made from liquor, adding an avant-garde touch to your sipping experience!

What Else is on the Menu?

The excitement doesn’t stop at cocktails and wine. Pogo will feature live jazz performances on weekends, showcasing regional talent that perfectly complements the bar's elegant atmosphere. With dim lighting and plush seating, it’s set to be the ideal spot for an intimate night out.

What Do You Think?

• Are themed speakeasies a trend worth embracing?
• Do you think the number-based cocktail menu is a clever idea or just a gimmick?
• How do you feel about the discovery of a pogo stick influencing the bar’s concept?
• What kind of drinks would you like to see on the menu?
• Is live jazz the perfect accompaniment for a cocktail bar, or is it outdated?

Excited about downtown Birmingham's newest speakeasy? Share your thoughts and join the conversation on social media!