A new sports bar and entertainment venue called North Sports Bar could open as soon as this spring at 2028 E. North Ave.

That’s the iconic East Side venue which most recently housed the vegan respite Nice Times, almost became a forever-home for Snack Boys and (for about five years) housed the popular Prohibition-era, hotel-lobby-themed bar Hotel Foster. Prior to 2011, the space was home to venues like Live on North, Lava Lounge, The Globe, The Boardwalk and a variety of other nightlife concepts.

Owner Raymond Sanchez spent over a decade working in the restaurant industry and says it’s always been his dream to open his own bar or restaurant. As he took a look at various potential locations, he says he was truly struck by the North Avenue venue.

“I went to school right around the corner while I was growing up,” he says. “And I’ve always loved the variety of people… the diversity in the area. But when I walked into the building, I just had this really good feeling about the space.”

Sanchez says the new bar and restaurant will take inspiration from venues in Las Vegas that he and his wife visit time and time again.

“We want to create a space where people can get comfortable, enjoy a great drink and food and watch the game,” he says, noting that North Sports Bar will feature a nightlife vibe with LED lights, great music and a menu that features great hospitality, solid bar fare, plus a menu of exceptional signature cocktails. 

Ideally, he says, they’d also love to support local musicians in the area by featuring live music.

Sanchez says he’s always loved the vibe on the East Side and hopes to create a space that both complements the current offerings in the area while bringing something new.

“We really want to stand out for our cocktails,” he says. “But more than anything, we want to give folks a really great experience. When they leave, we want them to keep thinking about us and be excited to come back.”