:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/44281872/Recess.0.0.jpg)
In the spring, LoHi will get a new bar and eatery where adults can take a break from work and the daily struggles of life. Recess will open in the former Book Bindery building in a 2,200 square foot space that will feature a bar and a full kitchen, plus a large, garden-like patio.
William Frankland, one of the owners, explained that the bar will actually be double-sided, indoor and outdoor, similar to the set-up that successful neighbor Lola has just down the street. In the narrow rectangular indoor space, Recess plans to seat about 60 guests at booths, two and four tops, and a large community table in the middle. The outside space, which was a community garden, will be home to tables, fire pits, and lots of greenery, like a cozy backyard.
There will be a small food menu, a lot of shareable platters, charcuterie, and some soups, a curry, and dishes that work well with beer. Some fifteen taps of beer will be offered, about half of them local one plus a few staples from around the world. Straight-forward classic cocktails, plus some signature drinks, will also be offered.
The venture is the baby of William Frankland and Owen Olson, both seasoned industry professionals who grew up in Wash Park. Frankland was a bartender at the Oxford Hotel throughout college then opened GB Fish and Chips with his cousin. He was the general manager for the second location of the pub for three and a half years. Olson has been in the restaurant business for 15 years or so. He was the general manager of the now defunct Japon and has opened a few different other bars.
Why the name? "Recess, we just think, is everyone's favorite part of school," explains Frankland. "It's our version of the part of an adult's daily routine where you take a quick break with a beer, enjoy the sun, take a quick recess from your everyday life."
Recess is working with 4Site Advisors on the project located at 2715 17th Street and hopes to open its doors in March. Postino, a wine bar, is slated to open in the same building.