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Date: 7/14/2021
SPRINGFIELD – Dewey’s Jazz Lounge officially opened at 232 Worthington St. on June 12. The restaurant, lounge and bar is owned by Kenny Lumpkin and Dr. Mark Markarian, who hope to engage a more mature, eclectic crowd to mingle, network and appreciate art downtown.
According to Lumpkin, the name Dewey's was inspired by his cousin, Dwight R. Jarrett, who passed away in 2014. Lumpkin himself has a background in business, entrepreneurship, consulting and has worked in the restaurant industry for 10 years. He said he is a big fan of jazz and was inspired by Wally’s Cafe Jazz Club in Boston.
“That’s kind of what inspired the vision. I would go there probably every Sunday and it kind of was my spot. I thought about it and thought ‘why not create one of my own?’” said Lumpkin. “If you know me, crazy ideas typically end up as business plans.”
Lumpkin came up with the idea for Dewey’s about two years ago and worked with Markarian to find their current location and begin renovating. Now open Wednesday through Sunday, Dewey’s offers live jazz music three nights a week.
“MALADO!” is Dewey’s house band, but Lumpkin said they have also brought in artists from New Orleans, New York, Hartford, Sacramento and more. Lumpkin said they hope to get to a place where they can have live music nightly.
Since their opening, Lumpkin said that Mayor Domenic Sarno, state representatives and state senators have all stopped by to show their support. Dewey’s is already seeing a good base of regular customers as well.
“I wanted it to become a place where anyone and everyone can come hang out, relax, grab a drink and catch a show,” said Lumpkin. “I’m just excited that people are enthused about the concept. We’re already kind of building that base of regulars. You build something, it takes you two years to plan and it takes you another eight months to build it and to finally see people in the space is an amazing feeling.”
Dewey’s is currently accepting walk-ins for parties of six or less. Parties over six can email events@deweyslounge.com to reserve a table or call 301-8337 for more information. Dewey’s dress code is business comfortable. More information can be found on their website at https://www.deweyslounge.com/