New Claremore Bar Postponed Grand Opening Due To Coronavirus (COVID-19) Pandemic

The owners of a Claremore bar said COVID-19 postponed their grand opening and, now, they’re just waiting on the green light from the Governor to open their new business.

Justin Michael is the co-owner of the Smoke and Tonic, which will be a cigar bar and cocktail lounge.

He said they’ve been ready to open for a while, and they planned on doing a soft opening for Claremore’s Saint Paddy’s Day block party but COVID-19 led to its cancellation then bars were forced to close until further notice. 

Since then, they’ve been working on a shoestring budget to make other adjustments. Michael said it’s taking a toll on his family’s finances, so he’s hoping they’ll be able to open in a couple of weeks.

“When are they gonna let me do this because, eventually, the banks are going to start asking for more than just interest payments” said Michael.

The second phase of Governor Stitt’s plan allows bars to reopen, which could happen May 15th.