Named Ignition, the bar will blend a luxury experience with motorsport culture, and of course, include racing simulators. The bar can be found in Velocity, discreetly behind a wall-mounted steering-wheel gallery that showcases real racing wheels from various competitions.
“Some of the best moments in racing happen off the track, and that’s the inspiration behind Ignition,” Velocity founder Viet Tran said in a statement. “We wanted to create an exclusive space where guests can immerse themselves in motorsports culture, enjoy outstanding drinks and food, and ignite their passion.”
Tran brought in Peter Nolan of Permission Whiskey in the Heights to create the Ignition cocktail program. The Midnight Monaco features Glenfiddich 16-Year Aston Martin Edition, honey, Cointreau, Peychaud’s bitters and orange; the Luxe Macallan Sour features Macallan 12-Year Double Cask, Aperol, lemon and egg white; the Ignition Espresso Martini is made with Reyka Vodka, fresh espresso, turbinado syrup and coffee liqueur; and the Velocity GT is made with elderflower gin, St-Germain, lavender and Mediterranean tonic. There’s also a selection of zero-proof cocktails.
A menu of small plates includes a charcuterie board, millionaire bacon (candied bacon served with two maple dipping sauces) and a seafood campechana.
The 1,200-square-foot space was designed by LOMA Architecture. A custom-painted Pro Mazda race car hangs beneath a dramatic vaulted ceiling, serving as the focal point; racing memorabilia also lines the walls. The space will have eight professional-grade racing simulators, four beginner-friendly racer simulators with motion technology and four advanced Pro Simulators featuring full-motion systems and triple-curved displays.
Ignition, 2110 Edwards St., will be open from 5 to 11 p.m. Thursday; from 5 p.m. to midnight Friday and Saturday; and from 5 to 10 p.m. Sunday.