For over three decades the Cincinnati entertainment district has been an oasis for a young college crowd looking to loosen up and enjoy the nightlife. Many bars and clubs have offered a variety of community events but none have offered a pleasant cultural experience quite like Good Times at 2626. The vibes are chill and as you walk up to the place on Cincinnati street you’re instantly greeted by an impressive collection of street art and a patio that makes you want to kick off your shoes and lie in the grass with a cocktail in your hand. We had the opportunity to speak with one of the owners, Brian Chavez, about his business and why they decided to nestle up in one of El Paso’s most infamous party spots.
What is Good Times at 2626 about?
Good Times at 2626 is really three bars in one. Two of the three concepts have been rolled out. The 2nd floor is the 3rd concept that will be rolled out in Q3 of 2019. Each concept is a little different, but they all tie in together.
The 1st floor inside has a mid-century modern design with a large final collection and clean ascetic, but still catering to the college scene. We tried to build something in the area that we would like but still appeal to the college scene of the Cincinnati district.
The outdoor patio bar was intended to have a similar feel to a porch/front yard feel that features a container bar, retro VW bus that serves food and lounges seating with a grass lawn and lush plants. The 2nd-floor bar concept will be the first 2 story patio bar in the Cincinnati district.
Why did you choose this location?
We saw how Cincinnati district was having a resurgence and this location was one of the cornerstones of that area. We also saw the potential that this location could have and what it could become in the future. So when the opportunity presented itself we jumped on it.
Tell us a little bit about the murals painted around the building? Who created them?
Three amazing artists that we have worked with on other projects in the past. Exist1981, Carly Ealey and Chris Konecki. We wanted something that would get your attention, but in a very tasteful way and that also looked amazing. It really did not have to do too much with the bar/concept, but rather it was an opportunity for us to be able to create a beautiful mural in a high traffic area that people young and old could appreciate.
How does Good Times at 2626 distinguish itself from other businesses in the area?
Good Times at 2626 has a great indoor/outdoor feel with an open patio concept and dance floor on the side that bars in the Cincinnati are not able to replicate.
What is your goal, what do you want to accomplish with this business?
From the start of this project, we wanted to make a concept that was timeless and iconic in the area. Anyone can make a bar, but it being timeless and iconic is that harder thing to do and that is something we strive for in all our projects.
What is Good Times doing to contribute to the El Paso culture?
It is helping to set a standard and push the envelope of progression for culture in El Paso.
More info: facebook.com/GoodTimesAt2626 | instagram.com/goodtimesat2626
.