1. It’s got a bourbon bar with quite a selection
Fans of Kentucky’s famous booze can find more than 100 bourbons to sample at the new Oscar Station from 4 to 10 p.m. Wednesdays and Thursdays. A full bourbon list is available on The Oscar Station’s website. Shots range from $5.50 to $150.
Also available for purchase are a host of other spirits, craft beers and wines.
MORE: 12 new small businesses that opened in Butler County in 2019
2. Ordering a deluxe bourbon is bound to be a conversation starter
Those with a craving for higher-priced bourbons like Pappy Van Winkle and Elmer T. Lee Kentucky Straight will get a show to go along with their drink. A revolving rack salvaged from a going-out-of business dry cleaners delivers hard-to-find bourbon brands — and highlights the bar’s extensive selection. Each of the foam bottle holders keeping the bourbon safe during its circuitous journey must be custom designed to prevent
3. It can be used for many types of events
Formerly known as the Snake House, the building was renovated with a focus on allowing for greater flexibility “to do a lot of things out there,” said to Phill Adams, Jungle Jim’s director of development. “It could have different functions each night.”
It’s not unusual for Jungle Jim’s to construct a space and then figure out what it’s ultimate use will be, he said. When the space that is now known as Oscar Event Center first opened, it was used by the grocer for various uses before an event center ended up as its role.
MORE: Hamilton’s newest restaurant hopes to offer many experiences in high-profile space
4. Getting there can be a real trip
A monorail purchased by “Jungle” Jim Bonaminio for $1 from Kings Island after the Mason amusement park closed its wild animal preserve in 1993 will shuttle guests from the Oscar Event Center to the Oscar Station for his Saturday’s celebration, weather permitting, Adams said. It also will operate during select Junglefests and private event and celebrations, weather permitting.
From 1974 to 1993, the trains carried more than 15 million Kings Island visitors on a one-mile loop, Adams said.
5. It focuses heavily on repurposing
The 5,400-square-foot structure features a bar designed by hand and built with reclaimed wood. The lower portion of the bar is covered in metal guard rails and tables are crafted from bowling alleys.
An area once used to store extra monorail cars has been converted into a covered, heated, 8,900-square-foot outdoor patio, accessible through open garage doors in warmer months.
MORE: 13 new restaurants that opened in Butler County in 2019
About the Author
