The Rare is preparing to open in downtown Mason, bringing a new American bistro, event space and brewery partnership to a historic building at 128 E. Main St Cincinnati Business Courier.
The restaurant is being developed by local couple Nikki and Josh Logsdon, who purchased the more than 150-year-old building in 2022 and have invested millions of dollars into its restoration. The project is part of the couple’s effort to preserve the historic property while creating a new destination in downtown Mason.
The Rare is expected to open in November 2026, although an exact opening date has not yet been announced. Renovation work on the building began earlier this year, with crews carrying out extensive work to transform the historic property into the new restaurant.
The restaurant will be led by Max Wagner, the former executive chef at Cincinnati restaurant Pepp & Dolores. Wagner is developing an American bistro-style menu focused on familiar, approachable dishes with modern touches, according to recent reporting from the Cincinnati Business Courier and WCPO.
Among the dishes Wagner has discussed is a take on Cincinnati chili that will use braised short rib and aged cheddar, incorporating a familiar local dish into The Rare’s menu.
The Rare will occupy the first floor of the historic building, while an event space is planned for the second floor. The upstairs space will have elevator access and is expected to provide an additional setting for private events and gatherings.
The project will also have a connection to The Common Beer Company, which is located next door at 126 E. Main St. A food window at The Rare will be able to serve customers at the brewery, creating a connection between the two businesses.
The Logsdons are preserving much of the historic character of the building as part of the renovation. According to WCPO, the building’s original character helped inspire the name The Rare and the decision to restore the property rather than replace it with a new structure.
The upcoming restaurant is part of broader development activity in downtown Mason, where efforts are underway to encourage additional businesses and activity along the Mason Mile.
The Rare is expected to open at 128 E. Main St. in November 2026. An exact opening date and hours have not yet been announced.
What Now has reached out to The Rare for additional information about the restaurant, including its menu and expected opening timeframe, but did not receive a response at the time of publication.
