XO Cocktail Parlor, a new bar and restaurant, could open this summer in the space that formerly housed gaming nightclub 42 Lounge in downtown Milwaukee.
Owner Larry Taylor wants to open the new cocktail lounge and eatery at 326 E. Mason St. on August 1.
“What I’m looking to do is bring a little balance to the Cathedral Square area,” Taylor said. “There are a lot of clubs in the area but my focus is on aesthetics. The vibes and event the cocktails will be very aesthetically appealing.”
XO Cocktail will feature a selection of drinks made with liquors, such as gin and cognacs, that bars don’t normally use for cocktails, Taylor said. He also said the bar will serve food that will compliment the drink selection.
It would occasionally feature live music performances, DJs and would host events with Milwaukee’s young professional groups. Taylor said he will release details about the bar’s days of operation and its drink and food menus in the near future.
Taylor plans to renovate the space, upgrade its bathrooms, and install additional equipment.
42 Lounge in late March vacated the space after five years to join forces with new gaming bar Oak and Shield Pub, which opened earlier this month in Milwaukee’s Lower East Side neighborhood.
