Business & Tech

New Pub In Tannery has Steampunk Theme and Craft Libations

New business in Tannery building hopes to bring more people to the bottom of First Street.

There’s a new spot in town to enjoy a libation and practice your gaming skills.  Cullen’s Tannery Pub opened earlier this month with interesting whiskey in the well and craft beer on tap. 

Dennis and Denise Cullen decorated their pub with a steampunk theme and an eye toward creating a place where gamers can practice their technique on Playstation 3 and patrons could enjoy craft beer and spirits.

Dennis Cullen was the owner of Choices, a bar and music venue that used to occupy the space now houses Roookies Sports Bar.  He sold Choices in 2005.

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“It was really about the music for me,” says Cullen when remembering Choices.  “We’d like to start an open mic.  We’d like to provide a place that attracts musicians to come and play.”

The pub’s décor pays homage to the heritage of the building that houses the bar and to the steampunk genre.  Cowhides over the bar are a reminder of what the building was used for originally and the gears and gauges and brass and copper are steampunk staples.

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The biggest challenge for the Cullens is space.  The bar is small but a large mirror that Dennis kept from Choices creates the feel of a larger room and the outdoor patio gives people a place to enjoy a drink in the fresh air.

Char’s Hotdogs, also housed in the Tannery is staying open later because of the new pub. “We’re all working together in the building to get people to come here,” said Cullen.

Cullen’s Tannery Pub is open 2-11 p.m.  Tuesday through Sunday. 

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