Plymouth Welcomes the Red Ryder Lounge: A Nostalgic Night Spot
Plymouth is buzzing with excitement as Red Ryder Lounge officially opens its doors in the Old Village area! Just recently launched on September 17, 2023, this isn’t just any bar; it’s a heartwarming venture by Jeff O’Brien, alongside his wife Alexis O’Brien and mother-in-law Sandy Mily. Their goal? To create a space that brings back those cherished old-school vibes while celebrating family history.
The Inspiration Behind Red Ryder
Right from the start, Jeff said his vision for Red Ryder was clear: “We wanted this warm, cozy, basement-bar feeling that made you want to be here and hang out,” he explained. He goes on to express how the ambiance is reminiscent of your grandfather’s basement, filled with stories and laughter. The décor reflects their family history, with many items lovingly repurposed from the Fox Hills Golf & Banquet Center where Sandy and her sister were once owners. Jeff himself worked there before and after it was sold in 2022, and he couldn’t resist bringing a piece of that history into the new bar.
Among the vintage treasures in the lounge is a stunning bar top made from 15-foot benches from the 1930s that were gathered from the bottom of Fox Hills. Jeff recalls, “When we sold, I took them out of there, not knowing what I was going to do with them. But we were able to repurpose them here.” The lounge also boasts a collection of restored 1950s chairs, enhancing that nostalgic feel.
Food and Drink: The Menu
Stepping into Red Ryder Lounge means you’re in for a treat. The full kitchen menu is a delightful blend of old-school and new-school offerings. “We have a lot of shareables and appetizers that are like new fusion bar food,” Jeff says, while also emphasizing the familiar classics that many love, like burger baskets and chicken sandwich baskets. Every item, except the French fries, is made fresh, ensuring quality without breaking the bank – nothing is priced over $20!
Don’t forget about the craft cocktail menu, which is filled with tantalizing choices. With cocktails that feature hand-squeezed citrus and carefully crafted ingredients, patrons will enjoy everything from Old Fashioneds to trendy creations like the New Fashioned and refreshing Palomas, which Jeff noted is their top seller.
A Musical Haven
Music lovers, rejoice! The atmosphere in Red Ryder is designed to celebrate the magic of music. With a collection of over 3,000 vinyl records, Jeff spun classic tracks on opening night, ensuring each visit is a celebration of sound. The lounge is thoroughly equipped with vintage stereo gear and themed signage featuring beloved song lyrics, creating a cozy yet lively environment.
“We could have big band nights with Dean Martin and Frank Sinatra,” Jeff shares, hinting at exciting future events. What’s more, there’s not a single television in sight, meaning guests can connect with each other while enjoying the nostalgic sound of crackling vinyl. “It really does sound better and I wanted to create a space to share that with people,” he explained.
Visiting Red Ryder Lounge
If you’re eager to experience Plymouth’s newest hangout, Red Ryder Lounge is open from 4 to 11 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday and 4 p.m. to midnight on Saturdays and Sundays. It invites everyone to gather, enjoy a drink, and relish the good times in an atmosphere unlike any other.
So grab your friends and head over to 584 Starkweather for an evening filled with good food, great drinks, and all the nostalgia you can handle at Red Ryder Lounge!
