Laid Back Vibes and Subtle Indulgence Await at New Secret Speakeasy
Fort Myers, FL (RestaurantNews.com) Downtown Fort Myers is about to get a taste of secret sophistication with the grand opening of Escondido Lounge, a new speakeasy-style two-story mezcal and tequila lounge slated to open in September 2024. Escondido Lounge promises to be a haven for aficionados of craft mixology, innovative small plates, indulgent desserts, and live music alike.
Nestled in the heart of downtown, Escondido Lounge is a joint project founded by Kilgore Culinary Group which is owned and operated by renowned Miami Chef Bradley Kilgore of international acclaim, Southwest Florida entrepreneur, Brad Cozza, and local restaurateurs Ozzie Morrobel and Max Curtis. The speakeasy was inspired by the “Brad’s” recent joint project in Mexico, OCN Resorts & Residences, where Kilgore spearheaded the amenities food and beverage program. Chef Kilgore is fully committed to the Southwest FL area, as him and Cozza recently leased an additional space downtown which will house one of Kilgore’s well known Miami concepts early 2025.
The Richards historical building has a rich history having been a pharmacy, soda bars and celebrity haunt visited regularly by local VIPs including Thomas Edison, and baseballers Ty Cobb and Connie Mack. The pharmacy was owned and operated by RQ Richards, so it made sense to pay homage by honoring the family name by calling the upstairs loft area, The Richards Loft as well as a cocktail called “The RQ Richards Old Fashioned”.
Designed to evoke the allure and mystique of a bygone era, Escondido (which means “hidden” in Spanish) Lounge welcomes guests into an intimate and ambient setting where the artistry of mixology takes center stage. Enter through a secret library door behind the popular eatery Taco Works, and patrons can indulge in an extensive selection of premium mezcal and tequila, handpicked for their quality and authenticity. The bar menu also puts emphasis on properly executed traditional and classic craft cocktails created by their expert bartenders, showcasing innovative combinations and unique flavor profiles. Notable highlights will include the “Guava Breeze” made with aged rum, guava puree and fresh lime topped with cream cheese foam, the “Milk Punch” which features Cachaca, Mozart dark chocolate, velvet Falernum, pineapple, lime, Verbena tea, soy milk and Orjat. Another soon to be fan favorite is the “Passionfruit Mezcalita” crafted with fresh passionfruit, mezcal, lime, habanero bitters and agave.
Chef Kilgore has also created the menu for Escondido which will feature creative, shareable, and fun plates to go with the lounge’s lively vibe. Some notable dishes include the Cheesy Gruyère & Black Truffle Panini, an indulgent combination of aged cheddar, Gruyère, black truffle with garlic aioli that’s pressed to perfection. On the lighter side, the menu features a Chef Kilgore favorite, Caviar Chips & Dip made with a warm goat cheese and chive mousse folded with slow caramelized onion jam. For those who savor a sweet treat, Escondido will also introduce a dessert bar where guests can choose from decadent delights curated by Kilgore Culinary. Known for his culinary innovation, Chef Brad Kilgore’s commitment to quality has made him Miami’s Chef of the Year an impressive five times. Chef Kilgore has crafted a selection of desserts that perfectly complement and enhance the flavors of mezcal and tequila including the Warm Chocolate “Fireball” Fondant topped with vanilla bean ice cream, the Lime Sherbet Yuzu-Mezcal-Margarita Granita with crushed frozen raspberries, or the Mango-Yogurt-Cheesecake Mousse with Tequila, Habanero Sugar Crystals, and Tajin Spice.
Upon entering, guests are greeted by a stunning mid-century style six-foot tall red chandelier and architectural wood slat columns inspired by the vibe of Puerto Escondido and Oaxaca while cozy booths line the walls. The downstairs level boasts a private room that can be booked for events meticulously planned by an in-house event planner. Adding to the ambiance, live piano and jazz performances will grace the venue on select nights, providing a soulful backdrop to an evening of laid-back vibes and subtle indulgence. This promises to make Escondido Lounge not just a destination for drinks, but a cultural hub where music and libations harmoniously blend.
“We are thrilled to bring a taste of refined entertainment to downtown Fort Myers with the opening of Escondido Lounge,” said Brad Cozza, co-owner. “Our goal is to create an unforgettable experience where guests can savor exceptional spirits, enjoy live piano, and indulge in exquisite bites crafted by Chef Brad Kilgore. How incredible to be located in such a historic space, and to be in the same exact spot where great athletes and scholars once stood, it’s an honor,” says Cozza.
Escondido Lounge invites locals and visitors alike to discover a new standard of style and entertainment in Fort Myers. Whether seeking a night out with friends, a romantic date, or simply a place to unwind, Escondido will not disappoint.
For more information, including hours of operation and upcoming events, please visit EscondidoLounge.com or check out @escondidolounge on Instagram for the latest updates and behind-the-scenes glimpses.
For media inquiries, please contact:
Cheryl Mazor at Cheryl@vanessamenkes.com | Vanessa Menkes at Vanessa@vanessamenkes.com
