There will be a new place to grab an adult beverage on the west side of Owensboro in 2025, with Maria and Daniel Keaveney planning to open 1885 Cocktail Bar.
Daniel said the bar is named after the year J. W. McCulloch founded Green River Distillery, just two miles north of where the bar will sit in the business strip at 2601 West Parrish Avenue.
He noted that the location will have a vintage style featuring a modern twist, with local artist and contractor Aaron Kizer leading the construction and design. Though plans are well underway, Daniel said they don’t plan to open until August 2025.
In 2022, the Keaveneys were going to open a bar called Tiki Lab downtown at an empty lot on East 3rd Street. Despite support from the City Commission, there was pushback from neighboring residents, businesses, and nonprofit organizations. So, the couple decided to regroup and open something a little different on West Parrish Avenue.
“Opening a bar in an area that doesn’t have one currently is a unique advantage to meet the needs of the area and develop loyal patrons,” Daniel said.
Though there will be a bar, Daniel also said the menu will also include non-alcoholic beverages.
Daniel said they hope to “enhance the beverage experience and elevate the flavor profiles of the area” through 1885 while providing an atmosphere not seen elsewhere in Owensboro.
“1885 aims to blend expertly crafted beverages, quality food, and distinctive event experiences in a welcoming atmosphere to bring ‘good drinks and good times’ to Owensboro,” Daniel said.
Daniel and Maria both have backgrounds in food service and bartending. Daniel has an associate and bachelor of science degree in culinary arts and food service entrepreneurship. Maria brings 20 years of experience working in brands like Southern Living. She also has degrees in culinary nutrition and culinary arts, as well as an MBA in IT management.
