The Barstool Fund - Kirvens
Up next: Kirvens (Bronx, NY)
A beautiful gem nestled in The Pelham Park, this neighborhood bar serves cocktails to an over 30 demographic and features 90's classics, live music, local sports and events of the like.
Reader Email
Kirvens is a beautiful bar nestled in the Pelham Parkway section of the Bronx. We specialize in craft beer and cocktails. We are 100 percent owned and operated by Black and Latina women. Customer service comes first, and as a result of that, our customers have become like family to us. It was important to open a bar in this neighborhood. Kirvens provides a safe space for so many people. People from all walks of life come here and feel welcome. We provide a refuge from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Our first two years in business we were very successful. In fact, we didn’t see any losses, until March of 2020. Restrictions on bars and restaurants in New York City Due to COVID-19 have made it nearly impossible to stay open. We have had countless set backs, and it seems as if the odds are stacked against us. Unfortunately, due to the layout of our venue, as well as limited capacity we weren’t able to open for indoor dining when it resumed in October 2020. That left us with the option to offer delivery, takeout, and outdoor dining. As the weather began to change, we sought out contractors to build a heated outdoor structure. As luck would have it, the first person that we hired, took a substantial deposit and did not start building. One month and countless excuses later, we hired another contractor. He sold us promises and failed to deliver. In short, he scammed us as well as other local restaurants. We have a half built structure that cannot be used. The temperature has dropped below freezing, and without the heated structure our sales are close to zero.
Kirvens is Marisa’s life’s work. She put her life savings into building this bar. She has presented countless opportunities to her community. From educating our regulars on craft beer, to our LGBTQ+ Drag Bingo night, to hosting multiple charity events, to mentoring staff and giving valuable insight on the restaurant industry, Marisa and Kirvens are, a necessity in this community.