Rough Draft Bar & Books in Kingston, N.Y., which suffered significant damage in January due to burst pipes in the building at 82 John St. where it is located, plans to move around the corner to Senate Garage, currently an event venue, on N. Front St. in 2027.
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| Rough Draft will move next year to Senate Garage. | |
In a statement, Rough Draft owners Amanda and Anthony Stromoski wrote: "We've worked hard, both to make our own improvements and also to get some reassurance that problems beyond our control, as renters, would be addressed. With just over a year left on our lease, we've ramped up these efforts and spent a lot of time wondering what's next for us. We've even inquired about purchasing the building, to ensure we'd have space to grow and evolve. Unfortunately, it's become clear that there is no path toward a long-term future in our current space."
Noting that they consider this plan "a new opportunity--one we believe can provide a bigger, better, more sustainable future for Rough Draft," the owners added that "the team behind this amazing, historic building [Senate Garage] will be retiring from the wedding business at the end of 2026. And we're hoping that we can take the special magic this venue provides for private events, and open it up to everyday guests. Fill it with people, books, beverages, and conversation, and bring even more life to the space."
Describing Senate Garage as feeling "like a dream-come-true landing spot," the Stromoskis said there will be "more room for seating, more books, and more drinks, more readings and music and trivia and community events. Maybe even more food!... The possibilities are endless. We can't wait to get going."
Although the 2027 timeline is not set, Rough Draft is making the announcement now "because we're excited to start planning, and we know word will get out! And because this is such bittersweet news, we want to savor this last year at 82 John Street, along with every one of you who has come to see it as such a special place. This Saturday, April 25, is Independent Bookstore Day--probably our last at this location--so please join us in making it our best yet!"