Creative Hangars Credit: Douglas Trattner

The Creative Hangars (2808 Church Ave.), the cluster of semi-circular buildings in Ohio City, is gearing up for its next act. The small business incubator opened in 2022, was transferred to Ohio City Inc. a year and a half later, and then ceased operations a year ago this month.

Now the structures at the corner of Church and State are in the hands of Graham Veysey, the property’s owner, who is shepherding all future developments. In addition to City Goods, the makers’ marketplace, the cluster now hosts Parallel Universe Books and an Airbnb. Veysey says that he’s in talks with a national sneaker brand and is thrilled to welcome a new tenant in the former Hangar space.

In early February, Niko Atheneos and Ian Barrie will open Bar in that building, which is the largest structure of the group. With roughly 500 square feet on the main floor and another 200 square feet on the mezzanine, the bar can accommodate about 45 guests.

Atheneos says that the main attraction will be oysters and martinis, with a rotating selection cold-water oysters paired with an assortment of martinis. Of course there will be some bubbles – including champagne slushies – along with white and red wines by the glass.

The oysters will be joined by a concise menu of items such as shrimp cocktail, tuna tartare, charcuterie, salads and a handful of hot foods that will come from the new, small kitchen on the mezzanine. Guests can look forward to regular and special items such as oysters Rockefeller and lobster nachos with housemade chips.

The timing is ideal for a new neighborhood spot, where diners can enjoy a snack and glass of wine while waiting for a table at Amba and the soon-to-open Rosy.

Veysey says that he’s aiming to attract other creative businesses for the remaining spots while planning additional spring and summer programming.

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For 25 years, Douglas Trattner has worked as a full-time freelance writer, editor and author. His work as co-author on Michael Symon's cookbooks have earned him four New York Times Best-Selling Author honors, while his longstanding role as Scene dining editor has garnered awards of its own.