Tempo.33

An upscale craft cocktail experience in historic downtown space

By Judy Royal  »  Photos by G. Frank Hart

Clayton Gsell has been a fixture on the Wilmington business scene for 26 years with a variety of ventures under his belt, but in 2023 he had an idea to do something new and a little different. He wanted to bring a specific type of bar to the area, and that’s how Tempo.33 on the third floor of the historic Roudabush building was born.

“I always thought it would be fun to have a loungey, upscale and inviting place to hang out,” Gsell says. “I wanted to do it at Wrightsville Beach and was working with a broker but not having much success finding the type of space I envisioned.”

Things started falling into place, however, when Gsell learned about another entrepreneur with a similar idea, Kevin Keatts, who is currently the men’s basketball head coach at North Carolina State University. Gsell had crossed paths with Keatts, who was previously the men’s basketball head coach for the UNCW, at local charity events, but neither had discussed going into business together.

“After looking around the beach, Kevin and I changed the location of what we wanted to do to downtown Wilmington,” Gsell says. “We spent several months visiting bars to get a feel of how we could do something different.”

When the opportunity came up to acquire all three concepts within the well-known Front Street Roudabush building—which includes The Husk and Yosake—the men weren’t necessarily looking to become restaurateurs but knew the top-floor space, which previously operated as Dram + Morsel, was perfect for their idea.

“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 felt really good.”

In addition, both The Husk and Yosake enjoy wonderful reputations with a great team of employees, so adding Tempo.33 to the top floor was a perfect fit, he adds.

Ownership changed hands in May 2024. There were a few setbacks, including a fire on the second floor in July, but by September Tempo.33 was open for business on Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights.

Gsell credits his wife Susan and her business partner Renee Smith, owners of 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. “It’s comfortable yet bougie.”

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. There is a focus on continuous education for the mixology staff. 

“Kevin and I challenge them regularly to come up with new and interesting offerings,” Gsell says. “We are really proud of our team. Our server and bartender staff are second to none. It’s invigorating to see their passion. We’re always trying new cocktail recipes to keep the customer’s experience fresh and exciting.”

For those who forgo alcohol, there is also an extensive lineup of mocktails, which was popular during Dry January but available all the time.

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 offers live music every Friday and Saturday night, “anything from piano to acoustic guitar to jazz trios and quartets,” Gsell says. 

“It’s music that you can enjoy while still carrying on a conversation,” he adds.

The dress code is business casual, meaning a jacket is not required but “respectfully no tattered jeans or baseball hats,” Gsell says. 

“We want our guests to feel special,” he says. “Feedback has been very positive. We’re seeing customers who enjoy dressing up to go out for a nice drink. It’s a unique experience.”

The space also lends itself to fun educational events, such as sushi rolling and sake tasting classes. Frequent bourbon and wine tasting events are also available. Check Tempo.33’s website and social media for dates and registration information. In addition, private events, receptions and celebrations for up to 120 people are also hosted there.

Tempo.33 is already developing regulars. Keeping valued patrons coming back because they enjoy the environment and great service is a business philosophy that’s been important to Gsell in all his business ventures. 

“Our team is very passionate about their craft, and it shows,” he says. “Our goal is to make sure everyone enjoys a memorable experience with each visit.”