By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current
Scott and Julia McAvoy
Gaslight Grocer & Wine Bar in Geneseo has been a “labor of love” for Scott and Julia McAvoy. They recently opened the doors to their venue, located at 127 North State St. in downtown Geneseo.
The establishment combines wine, spirits, cocktails, live music, entertainment/event space and lounge area, and in-time will offer charcuterie-type food items available to purchase.
Scott McAvoy said, it was during the rehab of the building that, “The aesthetic morphed from a residential rental and retail space concept, to more of an entertainment venue. The cosmetics and historic character of the building was recognized by Julia and I as something unique to downtown Geneseo.”
He added that they received “positive response from friends and the community, which certainly solidified our moving in that direction.”
Including the wine bar was an idea that blossomed through continued rehab work at the site, alongside input from the community, he explained…”We listened and I can truly state the idea was collaborative. We felt we could add to our community with a unique setting, as opposed to competing with other downtown establishments, many of whom are very supportive friendships.”
When asked what was the biggest hurdle they had to overcome in launching their business, Scott McAvoy said, “Physically, the building itself was in disrepair and was in need of a complete remodel.”
The extent of the project itself led to a lengthy rehab schedule, he said, and added, “Fortunately, the City, as well as our neighbors, were patient, constructive and reassuring of our intent.”
He also admitted, “As extensive as the rehab was, this was a ‘labor of love’ project for me. I knew what was ahead of me, so there were no real surprises, just a lot of work.”
“If I were to define a hurdle, it would simply be that Julia, nor I, had any experience in owning and managing a business such as this. I can’t say we have overcome that hurdle, though we are enjoying the process.”
Gaslight Grocer and Wine Bar currently is open for pop-up dates listed at Gaslight Grocer & Wine Bar on Facebook and Gaslightgrocerwinebar on Instagram, as well as scheduled events.
For more information, or to schedule an event, call 312-560-1920.
