Where downtown Phoenix’s Rough Rider is a trip back in time to the sophisticated aspects of the late 19th century, Teddy’s Preserve will serve the same Old World flair with a more casual approach. The latter will be located above the basement that Rough Rider calls home at 1001 N. Central Ave.
“Rough Rider is very immersive. Everything is set up to look like you’ve been transported back in time,” Operating Owner and Beverage Director Kyla Hein tells Phoenix New Times. “We want to keep that same attention to detail with Teddy’s [Preserve] but make it more casual.”
While Rough Rider focuses on contemporary versions of Victorian-era cocktails, Teddy’s Preserve will offer an expanded beverage program that includes a selection of craft beers, wines, and Hein’s cocktail expertise. The drinks will focus on local purveyors.
The new restaurant is named for Theodore Roosevelt and it will honor his passion for conservation with a large indoor-outdoor space that can accommodate 350 guests. While the indoor portion will feel like a retro lounge, the outdoor patio evokes the sense of being in a park filled with trees and string lights.
To eat, there will be a permanent food truck with a large smoker. Rough Rider Executive Chef Ian Herschberg says that the menu will play into smoked items served in a fast-casual style. Teddy’s Preserve is one of two new concepts coming from Whining Pig Enterprises this year.
An opening is planned for early December at the latest. Stay tuned.
