UPDATED: Providence’s Whiskey Republic Being Sold to Local Club Owners

UPDATED: Providence’s Whiskey Republic Being Sold to Local Club Owners

The Whiskey Republic in Providence is being sold.

Business partners Garry Williams and Frank Manfredi, Jr. -- who presently own The Strand in Providence along with the nearby Rosendale downtown -- have purchased the waterfront establishment. 

Williams said that the previous bar at the location -- The Fish Co. -- had particular meaning to him.

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"It wasn't so long ago the name wasn't Whiskey Republic but none other than The Fish Co. I worked in this venue for seven years where I learned a lot about the nightlife industry and a lot about life," said Williams. "I worked from the bottom and stayed humble the whole time (even when asked to pick up cigarette butts on the deck on my first day) to learn as much as possible knowing one day I would use what I learned as a tool in this industry. 

"Well, fast forward 21 years later, and the world comes full circle and I'm beyond happy to announce I have purchased the same venue that I began this journey in," he added. 

Williams and Manfredi purchased The Strand from Rich Lupo which currently operates as a music venue; The Rosendale several blocks over downtown is a bar and restaurant. 

New Vision for Popular Establishment

Williams told GoLocalProv.com he is not sure yet what the new name for The Whiskey Republic will be. 

"That's an open-ended question. I'm not going to say it's not going to be The Fish Co. again,  but I can't say right now," said Williams, when reached for an interview with GoLocal on Thursday.

"We went in on the first of the year to get our feet in. We've been behind the scenes working on this for about a year," he said, adding that the sale price was "undisclosed."

"We"ll go in while the transfer is happening, assessing the situation, trying to change a few things. I don't like to shut [businesses] down and have people lose their jobs," he said.  "When the time's right we'll do a quick shut-down and a big reveal in the spring. We have some really cool things planned."

Williams noted the growth of the former 195 area, including the River House across the Point Street Bridge, has him optimistic to expand the clientele.

Both The Whiskey Republic -- and The Fish Co. --- had perhaps been best known as college bars. The Whiskey Republic claimed, "The Whiskey Republic features a stage fit for a rockstar (with the sound system to match), 20 HDTV's for your sports viewing pleasure, a full-service kitchen, waterfront location and the best staff in town."

"We want to bring back the business clientele. It's a great location. We want people to know you don't have to go out of Providence for a great waterfront experience," he said. 

Williams’ Announcement

Williams made the following announcement on January 1.

This one is extra special.

This building behind me was my first job in the nightlife industry when I was fresh out of high school. The name has changed thoughout the years but the memories will always remain and it's time to make a few new memories here!! 

Set your goal, be patient, stay humble throughout the process and if you want it bad enough you will go out and get it!! New Year New Venue!! Thank you to everyone that has supported me and big thank you to our whole team! 

This story was first published at 1/2/20 4:41 PM