Botanically-themed lounge emphasizes handcrafted healing ingredients
A unique craft cocktail bar emphasizing herbal elements and old-school remedies is preparing to open soon in Cleveland’s Old Brooklyn neighborhood. The Witch Doctor (3314 Broadview Rd.) will occupy the former Sticks & Stones Social Lounge space, bringing an innovative approach to mixology that combines traditional bartending with herbalism.
Experienced Team Behind the Concept
Matt Luebbert, a member of the US Bartenders’ Guild and current bar manager at Rood Food in Lakewood, is partnering with Charles Eby to create the establishment. Rood Food has earned recognition as the #1 West Side Restaurant and #1 Desserts in Cleveland according to the 2023 Cleveland Magazine Silver Spoon Awards, demonstrating Luebbert’s experience in high-quality hospitality operations.
Holistic Approach to Cocktails
“I get a lot of inspiration from herbalism and stuff like that, so I’m going to be trying to put a little bit of health back into the unhealthy, so to speak,” Luebert explains. “You know, herbs and botanicals and stuff that are good for your heart, for your lungs, your immune system…”
Atmospheric Design Concept
The Witch Doctor’s vibe is described as “a witch doctor in the forest,” featuring stained glass windows, live plants throughout the space, and a garden growing out back. The establishment will convert the pool room in the middle of the space into a lounge area, creating a unique atmosphere that blends natural elements with social gathering.
Accessible to All Patrons
The Witch Doctor will cater to “all walks of life,” with affordable beer options alongside fancier cocktails. This approach aims to make the herbal cocktail experience accessible to various budgets while maintaining quality standards.
Community Investment
Luebert’s connection to Old Brooklyn runs deep. “I grew up in Old Brooklyn. I currently own a house in Old Brooklyn. It’s just getting better and better and I would love to be able to help bring more people into that little area,” he explains.
The owners plan to grow the concept gradually. “We definitely want to grow into it and not have too much on our plate at first,” Luebert notes. Future plans may include live music programming.
Food Partnership Plans
While The Witch Doctor will focus on beverages, the owners hope to entice an independent operator to lease the adjacent space. This would provide food service both for the bar and the broader community, supporting the neighborhood’s ongoing development.
Old Brooklyn’s Growing Scene
The opening comes as Old Brooklyn experiences continued growth and development. The neighborhood recently hosted its annual StreetFest and has seen various business developments along the Broadview Road corridor.
Work has already begun converting the former Sticks & Stones Social Lounge into The Witch Doctor, with the botanically-themed bar expected to add a distinctive new option to Cleveland’s west side nightlife scene.
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