ABC Newspapers: Anoka natives launch wine bar downtown - ABC Newspapers

A wine bar slated to open in Anoka this month is about more than tannins and tastings; it’s about community. Three Anoka area natives are launching Ambi Wine Bar at the corner of Second Avenue and Jackson Street, in the space once occupied by Herr Schmidt’s Inn and more recently by the Redrum smoke shop.

Ambi’s founders grew up in Anoka and Andover and were looking for a business opportunity that built on the momentum they saw growing in downtown Anoka. They wanted to complement the existing businesses and draw more people to their hometown.

“Through market research we found that wine as a category was growing, wine consumption was growing, both in bars and liquor stores, and we noticed that downtown Anoka didn’t really have something in that space,” said co-founder Ythan Pratt, of Blaine. “ And so it fit really well with our objective of getting people down here without pulling from other businesses.” Pratt, who has a decade of experience in advertising. With experience as a small business owner, Jess Pratt will lead operations, and Good will focus on public relations and building relationships with other local businesses.

Ambi already has plans to offer food pairings through partnerships with other local businesses, such as Truffles & Tortes and Anoka Meat & Sausage. It will feature work by local artists as well as regular live music.

The business will focus on creating a comfortable atmosphere for wine drinkers of all types.

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PRESS RELEASE: Ambi set to become Anoka’s first official wine bar

Anoka, MN, December 6, 2018 - Ambi Wine Bar prepares to become Anoka’s first official wine bar after rezoning. Adding to a growing trend of energetic upstarts in the area, Ambi will be located in Anoka’s Historic Entertainment District at the corner of 2nd Avenue and Jackson Street, just off of Main Street.

Ambi’s goal is to help cultivate Anoka’s forward progress, bringing more people into the area and introducing them to the town’s charm. The bar will offer a “Classically Anokan” vibe with a modern twist, complementing the town’s existing lineup of local businesses while filling a void in Anoka’s Historic Entertainment District.

For tourists, Ambi will provide respite after a day of shopping the city’s many antique and boutique stores or after a night at the theater. For locals, Ambi will be a meet-up space for friends taking part in the city’s many traditions.

The bar’s historic ambiance will pair a warm setting with the energy of live acoustic music and rotating galleries from local artists. Ambi’s menu will feature a strong assortment of wines, as well as a curated assortment of local goodies. On select days of the week, Ambi’s bar space will be available for private events. Ambi is planning to open in the spring of 2019.

Ambi is raising funds on Kickstarter. Contributions will be used to help complete renovations and to create a community-centric atmosphere that features the businesses and individuals who backed the company. Some of the renovations include: plumbing, electrical upgrades, storage/refrigeration, appliances, signage, a locally made bar, installation of a new floor, and state and municipal fees.

Follow Ambi Wine Bar’s progress on Facebook, Instagram, or by subscribing to their email newsletter.

The Ambi Team

Jess Protivinsky-Pratt: As a small business owner with thousands of delighted clients over the years, Jess knows the community and has a proven track record of operating a business. At Ambi, Jess will lead the company’s operations.

“When I first experienced the community of Anoka rallying together for events like Rediscover Anoka Days and Over The River & Through the Shops, I fell in love. When we first started talking about opening a wine bar, I knew Anoka was the perfect spot.”

-Jess Protivinsky-Pratt

Ythan Pratt: Ythan has spent a decade working in advertising, supporting some of the world’s most recognizable brands in their digital marketing efforts. For Ambi, Ythan will lead the company’s marketing efforts.

“Ambi wants to show the world what ‘Classic Anoka’ means. Our goal is to draw people into the city for a day of shopping, recreation on the river, and the city’s many traditions.”

-Ythan Pratt

About Ambi Wine Bar

Ambi Wine Bar, Anoka’s first official wine bar was founded by residents of the Anoka area who share a vision for the city’s future and a commitment to improving the community. As a team, they’re creating a one of a kind wine bar experience that goes beyond the glass.

Media Contact:

Ythan Pratt

hello@ambiwinebar.com

Related Links:

https://www.ambiwinebar.com/