Recovery Room Owner Takes Over Former Upper Deck Tavern Space

When longstanding dive bar Upper Deck Tavern shuttered at the end of February last year, the PBR-and-Jameson crowds were bereft. Gilroy’s owner Brian Wolter tried to fill the void at 353 King St. with King Street Bait and Tackle, but it never really held the same appeal.

Today, Recovery Room owner Chris “Boston” DiMattia announces that he purchased the bar from Wolter and will change the name to Bangkok Lounge.

“The theme of the new business is a seven-nights-a-week karaoke bar with different themes each night,” he tells Eater, “Think country western, ‘80s, and show tunes. We will also have a small room in the back for private karaoke groups.” DiMattia says that he will invite local drag queens to MC several nights a week with an opportunity for duets.

Bartenders Matt Lane (Dudley’s) and Cullen Baney (formerly of Upper Deck), along with a few of the Recovery Room staff will be in charge.

“I don’t want to call it a tiki bar,” says DiMattia, “but we will have four frozen drink machines and hope to have a signature punch on tap.” There’s also plans for hot dogs on the menu.

“We want to create a fun and safe environment for all, he says, “Birthdays, going aways, bachelorette parties are all welcome.” DiMattia wants customers to have capital F-U-N.

Bangkok Lounge should open in October.

• Death of Upper Deck Closes Out an Era in Charleston [ECHS]
• Upper Deck’s Replacement Hopes to Reel in Customers This Weekend [ECHS]