OLD TOWN — A new sports parlor-themed bar and restaurant is set to open on Wells Street this summer.
The Vig will look to replicate the classic bar feel of the '40s and '50s, with dark wood and leather in the 4,000-square-foot location at 1527 N. Wells St.
The Vig, short for vigorish, is a slang term for the juice a bookie takes off the top of winning bets.
"It's really a term that was used back in the '40s and '50s," said owner Ryan Marks. "I was really trying to find an antique type term that's edgy and cool."
Marks is a former partner and director of operations with Big Onion Tavern Group, which runs Fatpour Tap Works, Woodie's Flat, 404 Wine Bar and Derby, among other establishments.
The Vig will feature a menu of American dishes, as well as an extensive beer and cocktail list created by Chris Kafcas, formerly of The Longroom, Danny's and Underbar.
Marks plans on a list of about 10 craft cocktails, 20 beers on tap, 10 of which will be rotating, and a wine list of 30-40 bottles.
The food menu will include a choice of "shmears" and dips, house-smoked brisket and many other classic bar food items.
"I'm looking to really get the mature audience, people who are established, young professionals," Marks said. "It's going to be a place you can go and feel comfortable."
The building will feature a 20-seat main bar and an eight-seat back bar, as well as booths and a 40-seat sidewalk cafe along Wells Street.
Marks said the location will have TVs for big games, but stressed that it's not a sports bar where customers will be hit with the glow of games on the tube when they walk in.
"I'm calling it a sports parlor," he said.
The Vig is aiming for a July opening if all goes according to plan.
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