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Pittsburgh, PA

Expanding a space-themed molecular mixology bar with new product lines and upgraded facilities to enhance growth and brand visibility.

• Immersive Space Theme: Features Unreal 5 universe visuals by a veteran game designer.
• Notable Recognition: Named USBG Pittsburgh Guild House and praised by Pittsburgh Magazine.
• Strong Growth Metrics: 197% increase in EBITDA and continuous revenue growth.
• Product Expansion: Launching a ready-to-drink cocktail line with local distillery.
• Community Partnerships: Collaborations with Moonshot Museum and Carnegie Museums.

Space Bar is a space-themed molecular mixology bar located in Pittsburgh’s Market Square, combining astronomy-inspired aesthetics with craft cocktail innovation. Founded by sci-fi writer Dale Thomas Vaughn and hospitality expert Elizabeth Menzel, Space Bar has quickly become a cultural hub, known for its immersive experience, world-class mixologists, and recognition as the USBG Pittsburgh Guild House. The bar hosts unique events and maintains partnerships with local institutions, highlighting its integration within Pittsburgh’s community and growing reputation in the hospitality scene.

The funds raised will help Space Bar navigate a challenging period of construction-related foot traffic reduction while enabling growth through several initiatives. These include launching a ready-to-drink cocktail line in collaboration with a respected local distillery to expand product reach beyond the bar, upgrading the bar’s facilities, and increasing marketing efforts. The capital will support operational stability, brand visibility, and customer engagement, setting the stage for regional expansion and a stronger market presence.

Company Info

Space Bar is a space-themed molecular mixology bar in Pittsburgh offering immersive craft cocktails and planning multi-location expansion.

Space Bar is a space-themed molecular mixology bar located in Pittsburgh’s Market Square, specializing in immersive craft cocktails that blend astronomy and artistry. Founded by science fiction writer Dale Thomas Vaughn and hospitality veteran Elizabeth Menzel, the bar features unique design elements such as a 20-foot-long window tour of the universe created with Unreal 5 technology and offers signature events that foster community engagement. Space Bar has gained recognition as the USBG Pittsburgh Guild House and has established partnerships with local institutions including the Moonshot Museum and Carnegie Museums of Pittsburgh.

Since its launch in late 2023, Space Bar has demonstrated significant business growth and is poised to scale through the introduction of a ready-to-drink cocktail line, bar upgrades, expanded marketing, and new events. The business plans to maintain stability during downtown construction disruptions while growing brand visibility and revenue through product expansion and community programming. The long-term vision includes expanding to multiple locations and becoming a nationally recognized hospitality brand centered on immersive storytelling and exceptional mixology.