In Memphis’ historic Snuff District, The Kent Memphis and its sister concept, Over Keel at The Kent, are creating two very different ways for people to gather. The 27,000-square-foot historic event venue and its new wine bar neighbor offer distinct experiences at 61 Keel Avenue, under one ownership group.
The Kent Memphis opened in February 2022 following an extensive restoration of the 1883 historic building, transforming it into a large-scale event destination for weddings, nonprofit galas, business events, award ceremonies, holiday parties and other celebrations. There are four main halls.
Next door, Over Keel at The Kent opened in June. The wine bar has approximately 75 to 80 seats, with small bites, an assortment of wines, and a calendar of social events and themed programming.
Toni Williams, director of operations for both concepts, told What Now Memphis about how this latest venture came to be. She has spent more than 35 years in the events industry, beginning with corporate events before moving to a local golf course and building its event program.
“Right next door to us, we had quite a bit of construction going on in our neighborhood, building some apartments and just revitalizing the neighborhood. When construction ended, we had this blank space. So we decided that opening a wine bar was the next thing on our agenda,” she said.
While The Kent is designed for larger gatherings, this new concept takes a more intimate approach. The business is intentionally different from a traditional full-service bar, operating as a counter-service. Williams worked alongside manager Ethan Chute on the wine bar’s menu.
“We absolutely want to be your neighborhood spot. We want to be that spot you stop at on your way to dinner, to see a show, or for a night out, or on your way home. Pick up a charcuterie board and have a glass of wine and wind down; that type of neighborhood spot,” she explained.
Over Keel is open Wednesday through Saturday nights, with brunch held on the last Sunday of each month. Programming is also an important part of the concept, with events such as Junior League happy hour and a Dolly Parton brunch.
The reception in the two months since debuting has been great, Williams shared. It’s been a fantastic complement to The Kent’s more formal nature, offering a space that needs no invitation or reason to visit.
“It’s going really well with the neighborhood,” she shared.
As Williams and the team at the Kent properties look ahead to the future, they are excited to continue with the distinct mission of each of the businesses. There are not currently any plans to expand; the focus right now is on growing each concept’s identity.
