The former Tequila Nightclub is expected to reopen late next month — although it will bear little resemblance to the drinking establishment that was ordered to close in November.
Businessman Quan Diep and his partners plan to serve up a mix of international beers, live music and sports entertainment at International Beer Haus & Stage, in the same 5004 48th St. location.
A key element of the new business will be an open concept that encourages interaction among patrons, said Peter Kaz, its marketing manager and operations director.
“There’s not going to be booths or anything like that. There are going to be lots of tables.”
Diep said this type of design is proving popular in other major centres.
“It’s kind of like that European-style beer hall.”
A beer hall analogy might be appropriate, with more than 40 types of bottled beer from across Canada and around the world to be served. Food options will include appetizers, flatbreads, burgers, salads and sandwiches, said Kaz, adding that theme nights may feature beer and food pairings.
As its name suggests, International Beer Haus & Stage will also serve as a venue for musical performances, said Diep and Kaz. Entertainers will include local talent, as well as big names from elsewhere.
This reflects Diep and Kaz’s other business pursuit: Electric Music Group Inc. An artist management company, it’s tied in with prominent musicians, agents and promoters.
“If they’re bringing a certain entertainer through Western Canada, we’re looking on the music side to act as a promoter and bring them into certain markets,” said Kaz. “Red Deer is going to be one of the markets we want to bring some of these entertainers into.”
He hopes to offer live entertainment at International Beer Haus & Stage every week or two, with DJs on hand a couple times a week. Big-screen TVs dispersed throughout the premises will carry a variety of sporting events, added Kaz.
Also planned is a celebrity wall of fame, where memorabilia from musicians, athletes and other performers will be on display.
The City of Red Deer has yet to receive an application for International Beer Haus & Stage, said Licensing Department manager Howard Thompson.
Tequila Nightclub had its business licence pulled after allegedly exceeding its licensed capacity and allowing minors inside, and failing to comply with conditions related to security measures. A numbered company behind the nightclub has pleaded not guilty to charges under the Alberta Gaming and Liquor Act of admitting minors, with a trial scheduled for Feb. 12.
Thompson said that the former nightclub could reopen under a different business classification, such as a restaurant that serves liquor.
Diep stressed that International Beer Haus & Stage will be not be a nightclub. Kaz reinforced this point, pointing to the addition of a kitchen and the fact the business will cater to a different group of customers.
In addition to music lovers and sports enthusiasts, he even expects it to attract corporate functions.
hrichards@www.reddeeradvocate.com