Shelby Park’s Trouble Bar is preparing to pour its last drink this New Year’s Eve, closing its doors to open a new store at the same location. Owners Nicole Stipp and Kaitlyn Soligan-Owens announced the closure of the bar, located at 1149 S. Shelby St., in an Instagram video on Wednesday, hinting at new plans for the location.
“We are closing Trouble Bar because we are opening a new business here,” Soligan-Owens shared in the announcement.
While the duo said they are keeping details about the upcoming venture under wraps, they assured fans that the Shelby Park location will remain in use.
Stipp and Soligan-Owens opened Trouble Bar in 2019, building a reputation for its curated whiskey selection, lively atmosphere and eye-catching “whiskey got me into trouble” mural. The bar quickly became a neighborhood favorite, known for its community-driven events and vibrant personality.
In the video, Soligan-Owens explained the decision to close the bar stemmed from pursuing a shared dream that has been years in the making.
“It became apparent we could achieve this dream, but we could not have the new business and the bar at the same time right now,” she said.
The bar has planned several special events leading up to its Dec. 31 closure, inviting patrons to celebrate and “help drink all of this” whiskey, according to Soligan-Owens:
- Friday, Dec. 13: The Last Midnight Margs
- Sunday, Dec. 15: Holiday Market featuring local vendors, including Mae da Salon and Early Bird Bagel Shop
- Thursday, Dec. 19: Jingle Mingle hosted by @introtoeclecticism
- Friday, Dec. 20: Abortion Prom benefiting KY Health Justice
The owners reflected on their gratitude for the community that has supported them.
“We want to say thank you to the community,” Stipp said. “We’re really excited for what we have in store.”
This article appears in Dec 4-17, 2024.
