Downtown Morganton: Epicurean Speakeasy opens May 30

What began as a vision for “something different with panache” is now a full-fledged experience ready to welcome Morganton.

Epicurean Speakeasy, known as Epic, has completed its final touches and will officially open to the public Friday, May 30. Tucked behind CoMMA on South King Street, doors will open at 3 p.m. following a ribbon-cutting ceremony.

The Roaring Twenties-inspired venue was first teased last month with promises of vintage charm, a secret password, and carefully curated cocktails. Now, co-owners Thomas Schmitt and Carmen Parisi say the experience is ready, down to the last chandelier.

BEHIND THE RUST DOOR

Guests will enter the speakeasy through a rust-colored door with a sliding window.

Once they’ve whispered the nightly password (hint: it’s in the name), they’ll be transported into another era.

Inside, Epic features exposed brick walls, vintage photos, tables adorned with peacock florals, and a custom “E” engraved into the end of the bar. Designer Faith Schmitt, Thomas’s wife, was the creative force behind the space.

“We had a couple of pictures online of what we envisioned for the back room, and she kind of just went off that picture,” Thomas said.

SIGNATURE SIPS & SMOKY FLAVORS

Leading the bar and training is bartender Greg Griffith, who tested cocktail recipes Monday morning. The menu consists of 14 signature drinks along with six seasonal options.

Highlights include the Lavish Amaretto Sour, made with egg whites for a creamy texture and finished with three Luxardo brandy-infused cherries. The 100-Year-Old Cigar lives up to its name with a smoky aroma and a smooth Scotch finish.

Alongside cocktails, guests can choose from prosecco on tap, wine, craft beers, and a host of spirits. Though Epic is a non-smoking facility, cigar enthusiasts can still indulge. A premium retail display of 100 cigar options is available for purchase. Epic offers an outdoor deck for smokers.

SMALL TEAM, BIG STYLE

Epic will open with a team of six employees, ready to provide a relaxed, stay-as-long-as-you-want ambiance complete with background music and tailored service. There’s seating for six groups plus space for 11 at the bar.

While originally reported that the location would close at 8 p.m., new hours will now extend until 11 p.m. on Thursdays and midnight on Fridays and Saturdays, due to community interest.

“By popular demand, we’re staying open,” Parisi said. “Our vision was to provide Morganton with something unique and inviting to the entire community.”

Food is not served on-site, but light snacks will be available, and food trucks are expected to rotate in. After a soft opening week for local business owners, Cigar Club members, and friends, the Epic team is ready for Morganton.