Wizard of Oz–Themed Restaurant Opening Soon in Pensacola
Dorothy's will bring Wizard of Oz charm, late-night eats, and dancing to downtown Pensacola this September.
PENSACOLA, FL – Dorothy's, a Wizard of Oz–themed bar and restaurant, is preparing to open at 309 S Reus St, Pensacola, FL 32502, in late September. Executive Director Kurt Goodman of the HIV and AIDS services organization Oasis in Northwest Florida told Business Debut that the venue is more than just a new nightlife destination; it’s a fundraising lifeline for the nonprofit’s public health programs.
A Nightlife Experience with a Twist
The venue will feature a Wizard of Oz theme, including five large murals, a yellow brick road leading to the dance floor, and a mix of casual dining and entertainment. The kitchen will be operated by Steel Pony Diner, a popular Pensacola restaurant known for Southern comfort food with a Portuguese flair.
For this collaboration, Steel Pony will modify its menu to include more bar-friendly options and late-night eats, something Goodman says is in short supply in Pensacola.
Supporting the Oasis Mission
Faced with harsh budget cuts, Goodman shared that Dorothy's is a last resort to keep Oasis Florida funded well enough to continue its public health initiatives.
“We're gonna use the profits from the bar and the restaurant to support the programs that are facing devastating cuts to help continue to support our clients," Goodman said. Goodman formerly owned the Maison McCarty hotel in New Orleans, and he is drawing on the experience of managing the operations of the restaurant and bar there to bring Dorothy's to Pensacola.
Steel Pony Diner, meanwhile, is expanding its footprint in Pensacola with this venture. “They’re fantastic. I’m super excited that they’re coming in with us,” Goodman said.
Opening Hours
The establishment will operate as a bar and grill during the week, with TVs and music videos playing throughout, while weekends will bring dancing and a lively nightlife atmosphere. Expect late-night hours with foodservice until 1 am. The team is still deciding whether to offer daily breakfast or a weekend brunch.
Follow for More
Follow Dorothy's on Facebook and the Oasis website for updates, opening announcements, and be part of Dorothy’s grand opening.
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