New Nightclub “Mr. Ivy” is Set to Open in Northern Liberties Featuring a 360 Center Stage
A new nightlife venue is opening with some familiar names at the helm. The all-new Mr. Ivy (461 N. 3rd St ) is slated to open in Northern Liberties early 2024. Owners Ryan Dorsey and limited partners will be opening the venue next door to The Winston which is also owned by Dorsey.
“I’ve always had my eye on this location, since 2016 before The Winston existed. The location has always been prime real estate in Philadelphia – It’s right off on I-95 and 3rd street acts as a thoroughfare between some of the city’s busiest neighborhoods. Many moons ago it was a popular destination, and it seems like the right time to bring the area back to life. Plus, ample parking never hurts,” Ryan states.
Ivy gets its namesake from Dorsey’s mother and will have a total of 5500 sq. ft. and a capacity between 400 to 500 guests. The club will serve light bites for guests until midnight each night they are open. (Menu TBD) “We spent a lot of time on the interior and its design. Karly Fajardo of Block LII (52) did such a great job with the Winston and Winston on the Water, so I called her back for Mr. Ivy. New additions to the team include Riccardo Rivera of Klip Collective for lighting, Liam Wolf to oversee the installation of a custom D&B Sound System, and highly skilled contractor Michael Treacy of Treacy Brothers Construction,” Dorsey adds.
One thing that Dorsey does point out is that Mr. Ivy’s design changes based on the occasion. It will have a 360 center stage with VIP tables surrounding it on Friday night, but the tables can be cleared if a DJ or artist is performing and wants a large crowd around them the next night. “Most venues have one set design and have to adapt to whoever is in the space but Mr. Ivy can adapt the space to whoever is there,” Dorsey describes.
So what can guests expect? “Expect customer service that goes above and beyond. We want to give visitors the nightclub experience that the city currently lacks; less pomp and circumstance, more focus on having a good night out. We want the doorman to be the curator of each night – from dress code, to clientele…the works,” Ryan stated.
Philly’s nightlife doesn’t have as many nightlife options as it did when Ryan began his nightlife career over 15 years ago. However, Ryan and his team are looking to provide a new option for nightlife goers. “I feel like there aren’t as many nightclubs in Philadelphia as there should be. For a city this big, we need to bring back the art of nightclubs, not just large scale bars. I feel the nightclub scene in particular needs to be revitalized. I want to change club culture, away from bottle service and its inhabitants driving the energy of the room. To get past the door will be a privilege – whether in GA or VIP Mr. Ivy will be a pleasure all around,” Dorsey concludes.
Initially, Mr. Ivy will only be open Friday & Saturday from 10p-2am and will also seek to be open on Sundays for Industry Nights but that’s TBA for now. Those looking to join the team can stay tuned for job postings or go to MrIvyPhilly.com and send in their information.