Roosevelt: Downtown Phoenix’s New Nightlife Haven
Downtown Phoenix is buzzing with excitement as it prepares to welcome its latest nightlife destination, Roosevelt, this weekend. The newly launched “listening-focused” bar, club, and restaurant aims to elevate the night out experience with a unique emphasis on sound. Nestled in the heart of downtown at the former FilmBar location, Roosevelt promises an amalgamation of high-fidelity audio, curated house music, vinyl nights, artisan cocktails, and delicious food.
The Visionary Team Behind Roosevelt
The creative minds behind Roosevelt form what can only be described as a “dream team” of nightlife A-listers. The project is spearheaded by Thomas Turner, the prominent Arizona electronic dance music promoter known for Relentless Beats, accompanied by nightlife veteran Steve Kushnir. They’re joined by the innovative chef and Ocotillo owner Walter Sterling, as well as Stephen Lieberman, a renowned nightclub lighting designer. Furthermore, legendary Arizona house music DJ Michael Hooker contributes his extensive knowledge to the venture.
Turner’s vision for Roosevelt goes beyond just serving drinks; it represents a true community hub where food and music create a sense of belonging. He emphasizes that the venue will adapt to the local audience’s preferences, allowing regulars and newcomers alike to mold its identity.
A Space Tailored to Sound
One of Roosevelt’s most striking features is its commitment to sound quality. Occupying a spacious 4,000-square-foot area, the establishment is designed with the listening experience at its core. Equipped with a state-of-the-art Funktion-One sound system and meticulous studio-quality acoustic treatments, the bar offers an unparalleled auditory experience. According to Turner, the system is engineered to deliver crisp, high-fidelity sound without having to crank the volume, allowing for both lively club nights and intimate listening sessions.
While weekends may be energetic and vibrant, featuring local and touring DJs spinning feel-good house tracks, the atmosphere during the week leans more mellow. Roosevelt plans to host themed nights that explore funk, soul, jazz, and disco, alongside vinyl listening sessions celebrating entire albums. Hooker articulates this ethos perfectly, aiming to revive the nostalgic experience of listening to an album from beginning to end.
A Rich Programmable Experience
In keeping with its mission to be a versatile entertainment venue, Roosevelt’s lineup will include a blend of events. From large-scale house music nights to chill vinyl listening sessions, there’s an event for everyone. The venue’s programming isn’t static; rather, it will evolve as the owners gauge what resonates with their patrons. Hooker and Turner express a willingness to explore diverse musical genres and interactive experiences, ensuring that Roosevelt remains fresh and engaging.
The Legacy of FilmBar Resurrected
While Roosevelt signifies a new chapter, echoes of FilmBar’s legacy linger. The building retains its recognizable marquee and flagstone exterior, crafting a nostalgic link to what once was. However, the interior has undergone a dramatic transformation, featuring an expansive layout designed for vibrant social interactions and immersive sound experiences.
In a nod to its roots, Roosevelt intends to screen classic films using a projector and screen in its main room. Collaborative efforts with local film series, such as Cinehaze, will offer monthly screenings of cult classics, complete with themed snacks and popcorn. This hybrid approach of blending music and film enriches the neighborhood’s cultural fabric while paying tribute to the spot’s cinematic past.
Opening Celebrations and Future Plans
Roosevelt gears up for its much-anticipated public debut at 4 p.m. on Sunday, branded as “Open House Sundays,” where patrons can enjoy happy hour prices alongside a curated selection of house music. A series of RSVP-only preview nights will precede this grand unveiling, setting the stage for an exciting atmosphere.
Looking down the road, Turner is not just focused on immediate success; he envisions expanding Roosevelt’s reach and offerings. Plans for next spring may include developing a neighboring parking lot into an outdoor area, further enhancing the venue’s versatility.
As Roosevelt springs to life, its creators are enthusiastic about not just building a successful business but building a community-centric venue where music, food, and local culture flourish. Such an establishment will undoubtedly enhance the vibrant nightlife of Downtown Phoenix while inviting patrons to cultivate a shared experience of sound and taste.
Roosevelt
815 N. Second St.
