By Justin Markofski
Northside News
The Northside Lounge, 1022 N. Sherman Ave., is finalizing preparations for its much-anticipated opening later this summer as another locally owned, small business addition to the Northside community. Owner and long-time Madison bartender Simon Dettinger and I sat down for a conversation in the space. He shared information about the progress toward opening and his excitement to be at the point where he is behind the bar meeting and serving customers and neighbors.
The Northside Lounge will offer rotating taps, crafted cocktails (some spirit-free), and a monthly cheese raffle. They won’t serve food but are working to collaborate with food carts (looking at FEED Kitchens vendors first because of the near proximity) for some food service offerings on weekends.
Dettinger was a much-loved bartender at Vintage Spirits & Grill, 529 University Ave., for many years prior to making the choice, with his wife Emily Devine, a physical therapist, to open his own place. His warmth and popularity at Vintage are evidenced by the “Farewell to our Beloved Simon” event that Vintage still has on its Facebook site, which states, “Stop on by and wish Simon all the BEST on his new venture — the Northside Lounge! Wear your favorite bell bottoms and tie dye and cheer for our favorite guy!”
As hard as it was to say goodbye to friendly faces and a familiar context, Dettinger and Devine are eager to bring the same hospitality and service closer to home on the Northside, where they live. They bought their Northside home in 2015 in the Sherman Neighborhood, and absolutely enjoy this part of the city. Dettinger grew up in Madison’s North and East sides, attending Gompers (now Blackhawk) Middle School and East High School. Devine grew up in Boscobel and came to Madison to attend the UW. They met at a bar where Dettinger bartended many years ago.
While the process of rehabbing and opening the Northside Lounge has been a new experience — and not for the faint of heart — Dettinger and Devine have appreciated the support and goodwill already shown to them by individuals and business neighbors here on the Northside.
As Northsiders themselves, they spoke of how important it was to them to visit and support other Northside establishments during COVID to do what they could to keep local businesses going. Dettinger’s attitude is that a rising tide lifts all boats and sees room for even more creative and exciting projects and venues to come to the Northside.
Dettinger is eager to be in his familiar (but new) habitat, behind the bar, meeting friends new and old, and giving everyone who enters the Northside Lounge a welcoming, first-class experience of hospitality and service. Dettinger and Devine are proud and outspoken of how accessibility is a value and feature of their space, as they want the Lounge to be welcoming and inclusive of everyone. Come say hello, have a drink, and follow their progress on Northside Lounge on Facebook and Instagram.
