I was walking home from the gym one day last week and saw the construction in full swing at the new Q Capitol Hill at Broadway and Pike. I had heard some gossip that they are set to open in early September, so I got a little curious. What was going on inside? So, I used my social media networking abilities (Facebook stalked, that is…) the powers that be and asked for a tour of the space. I GOT ONE!!
In a word, awesome!
The space is well thought out with specific design and layout choices conducive to flow of service. Huge space! While I was engrossed by the design, Scott, the owner, described his plan for introducing a new vodka to the market. New vodka? My experience as a bartender and even in my management roles over the years in nightlife has been the difficulty in changing the consumers’ habits. Will Seattle be receptive to a new Vodka?
Creating the right drink menu is key. Customers always want to see a drink menu. I am positive this can work if the market research is conclusive and preparation is consistent. In other words, making a menu the boys want to drink and it doesn’t taste like shit when it is made by different bartenders. Another way to really focus on selling the Q brand is to have an educated staff who understands mixology and can create/sell concoctions utilizing the new brand. For example, my Blueberry Squeeze and Pink Drink are a result of my creating something that customers would like using vodkas that don’t normally sell as well on their own.
Even more impressive, was that Q is not relying solely on the standard nightclub revenue stream. They are committed to launching a new local brand that would be very much the Pacific Northwest way – locally distilled vodka by a local company who will give back to the local community in many ways. Not to mention a huge private event space that is separate from the club. I can see it now, community meeting, parties, fundraisers etc. Limitless! Ok Ok, the businesswoman in me got carried away there. Back to the vodka! I wasn’t kidding about my headline. Cocoa Creme Vodka!! It tastes similar to the milk after you have eaten your cocoa pebbles. I have three words for you DEE- LISH-OUS!
There is a whole list of flavors that are new and exciting. I will not list the other flavors as you will have to try them for yourself. Expect to see a cocktail menu that utilizes these flavors to really turn you on to pushing your palette into a new direction. I was wondering aloud if I would be able to purchase a bottle of this liquid pleasure at my local foodie porn shop. They do plan on wholesaling in outlets where you can purchase you typical spirits. GREAT! Holiday parties will never be the same when I unleash my Peppermint Paddy Hot Chocolate on my guests.
Sure, I was excited about Q before I saw the space and , more importantly, met the leader of the team responsible for its creation; But knowing the amount of thought and planning that has gone into this project, really wets my appetite for September. Not just to enjoy another nightlife entertainment venue, but to taste all the new flavors of vodka!
Downloading the Uber app as we speak.
