Planning a Party?

Downtown lounge Tempo.33 offers upscale space to host private events

By Judy Royal  »  Photo by G. Frank Hart

Since opening in September on the third floor of the historic Roudabush building in downtown Wilmington, Tempo.33 has become a popular spot to gather for craft cocktails in an upscale, relaxed atmosphere on Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights. Live music can be enjoyed every Friday and Saturday evening.

The former Dram + Morsel space is also available for those looking to create unforgettable private events for up to 120, including rehearsals, receptions, meetings and celebrations such as birthday and retirement parties, complete with entertainment.

“Tempo.33 offers a stylish, exclusive space ideal for private events,” Tempo.33 co-owner Clayton Gsell says. “Our venue provides a dynamic and sexy environment that is perfect for a wide variety of events. It’s the perfect choice for those looking to create a memorable, fun-filled special event.”

Gsell and Kevin Keatts, former men’s basketball head coach at North Carolina State University and the University of North Carolina Wilmington, went into business together after realizing they both shared a desire to bring a unique bar experience to the area. The availability of the Front Street location, which also includes The Husk and Yosake, sealed the deal.

“It’s a great old building built back in the 1800s, so the character is built into it,” Gsell says. “It has beautiful floors, brick walls and high ceilings. At first sight, the space had a really good vibe.”

Gsell credits his wife Susan and her business partner Renee Smith – who own Smith + Gsell Design Studio – for bringing the space to life. The interior feel and furnishings are inspired by a mix of modern, vintage and glamour, creating a sophisticated and comfortable environment, he says. The bar, which was custom built, matches the architectural trim around the tall windows of the century-old space. 

“You walk in and get this really inviting vibe of a historic building and a New York City lounge,” Gsell says. 

Tempo.33 focuses on craft cocktails using homemade mixers and syrups as well as dried fruits, herbs and infused ice cubes. It features a wide selection of bourbons and tequilas and a curated wine and Champagne list. A recently released spring drink menu includes Ain’t That a Peach, Float Like a Butterfly, Sting Like a Bee, Millions of Peaches and Eve’s Garden concoctions. For those who forgo alcohol, there is an extensive lineup of mocktails.

The food menu features a variety of small plates such as charcuterie, homemade hummus and truffle popcorn but is heavily dessert-focused, as many patrons stop by after dinner.

Tempo.33 also hosts fun educational events, such as sushi rolling and sake tasting classes. Bourbon and wine tasting events are also popular. Check Tempo.33’s website and social media for dates and registration information.

“The Tempo.33 space is bougie, comfortable and inviting,” Keatts says. “It’s not only a great place to come listen to live music while you enjoy a craft cocktail but also to book memorable private events.”

Tempo.33
33 S. Front St. in downtown Wilmington (third floor – elevator available at the rear of the building on Dock Street)
910.833.5999
tempo33ilm.com