SOUTHEAST N.C. — The Port City Daily’s most-read articles in 2024 so far have varied — from a local doctor urging commissioners to hold Novant accountable for its five-star rating, to orders from stop work issued to a major developer in Brunswick and New Brunswick. Hanover Counties, to a feasibility study that could bring passenger rail back to North Carolina.
LEARN MORE: #3 Most Read Story of 2024: Stop Work Order Filed Against Wilmington-Based Developer
The second most-read story of the year is a little more fun: the opening of a bar and entertainment complex in Ogden, with an ice cream parlor and restaurant soon also on its campus.
Ogden-area residents have flocked to the 3-acre property over the past six months to enjoy cocktails, arts markets, concerts and more.
The Bend opened in mid-summer with a 2,000-square-foot 1970s brick ranch house renovated into a bar and lounge, The Parlor House. It gives a clandestine atmosphere, with craft cocktails, wine and beer.
Food trucks frequently park on-site and there’s always entertainment, whether it’s music from local artists or art exhibits, shuffleboard leagues on a 20-foot board or quiz games. Their January calendar is available here.
Opened by Randy Tarr, he told Port City Daily earlier this year that he wanted to fill the gap left in Ogden when Fermental left two years ago after selling and reopening its building in the Cargo District. It was a kind of center, always family-friendly and full of neighborhood camaraderie.
“When I saw this place, I knew it was the perfect location and the perfect demographic,” Tarr said in the spring.
The 7227 Market St. address is located next to the YMCA, Ogden Park and Polar Ice Wilmington, where families often gather for sports and other events. It is located on land surrounded by magnolias, pines and oaks.
The goal is to convert two garages on site to open Grumpy’s Ice Cream and Middlesound Grilla permanent restaurant serving tacos, sandwiches and salads, including seafood, and smashburgers. The restaurant will be operated by Chris Politis, whose family owned several restaurants in Brunswick County, including Castaways Raw Bar and Dock House Seafood, both located in Holden Beach.
Read the original article about the Bend, then PCD’s follow-up to its opening below.
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