Now Open: Flower on Freeman in Duck Island

Flower on Freeman Luxe Kitchen owner Melissa Cole and her team have transformed the former Duck Island Club into the Flower on Freeman. While the general footprint of the compact club is the same, every surface, fixture and stick of furniture has been replaced. Apart from the bar, most of the seating is in low-slung, comfortable chairs and banquettes. To drink, there are “elevated cocktails,” including functional beverages. A pint-size kitchen dishes up small plates like pickled shrimp, caviar, beet dip, charcuterie and desserts. Credit: Douglas Trattner

The Duck Island Club closed in 2021 after decades of existing on the fringes of Cleveland’s nightlife scene. Located around the corner from the Velvet Tango Room, the under-the-radar watering hole was the antidote to the trendy lounges that were popping up in Ohio City and Tremont.

Soon after closing, the property changed hands, with Luxe Kitchen owner Melissa Cole taking ownership. After a few fits and starts, Cole’s ambitious renovation project is now complete as she and her team opened the doors to Flower on Freeman (2102 Freeman Ave.) in mid March.

“People in the neighborhood have been really patient and kind and gracious about what’s happening,” says Cole. “They’re excited.”

In place of Duck Island Club’s come-as-you-are vibe, which was more shabby than chic, Flower on Freeman leans glam and maximal. While the general footprint of the compact club is the same, every surface, fixture and stick of furniture has been replaced. Apart from the bar, most of the seating is in low-slung, comfortable chairs and banquettes. Between the front and back rooms, the lounge can accommodate about 50 guests – more when the rear patio is in play.

To drink, there are “elevated cocktails,” including functional beverages. A pint-size kitchen dishes up small plates like pickled shrimp, caviar, beet dip, charcuterie and desserts.

“I want to do a funky, playful thing around high tea with mushroom teas and rose lattes and cocktails,” says Cole.

To start, the bar will be open everyday but Sunday, but Cole intends to add Sunday service as soon as possible.

“It’s a sweet little space,” she adds. “It’s going to be a neighborhood place for people to go, hang out together.”