The Nook on Robinson, a funky neighborhood bar in Orlando's Milk District, is hitting a major milestone with a seventh-anniversary bash on Saturday, March 1. According to Orlando Weekly, the celebration starts at 5 p.m. and will include new merchandise designed by co-owner Matt Duke—think tote bags, pins, and stickers—plus a photo booth and eats from Red Panda Noodle starting at 7 p.m. Duke explained, "The theme for this year is these sad bottle characters and they’re like coming together or standing alone." He likes to reflect the unique personality of the Nook and its community through these designs.
As reported by Bungalower, this eclectic watering hole is known for its Florida-based beverages and inventive public events, such as "Scream at the Sky" and the tongue-in-cheek Movie Trash series. The birthday event is just another one on a list of creative happenings at The Nook. The first 50 partygoers will receive goodie bags. A complimentary bubbly toast is also scheduled for 10 p.m. to honor the bar's seven-year stint in the area.
Behind The Nook are Mary McGinn and Matt Duke, artists turned bar owners who envisioned their establishment as a collaborative creative space. According to the Orlando Weekly interview, the duo functions without a large staff, leading to a more personal touch, where guests may be greeted by one or both of the owners themselves. McGinn handles beverage selection with care and attention, builds a menu offering a range of local drafts, bottles, and cans, and negotiates fluctuating supply costs.
Despite feeling the crunch from events like COVID-19 and street construction, as Bungalower notes, the Nook remains a pivotal part of their neighborhood's fabric. The owners have shown resilience and adaptability, from serving beer to-go during pandemic lockdowns to adapting their business model. Still, they are not immune to concerns about the gentrification of the Milk District. Duke told Orlando Weekly, "I love the growth of the neighborhood and the changing of Orlando, but it’s making it harder and harder for us to exist." They are committed to maintaining the bar's gritty charm amidst a changing landscape.
